New Force Commander Visits Executive Secretary Lake Chad Basin Commission, Restates Commitment To Achieve Mandate

By Raychel Omaga

The new Force Commander, Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali has affirmed that the force has a requisite capacity to achieve its mandate. This statement comes amidst renewed confidence in the task force’s effectiveness in fostering regional peace and security.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Military Public Information Officer – Ndjemena, in a press release he signed on the
26 July 2023, said, he made the assertion during the maiden courtesy visit to Headquarters Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), Ndjemena – Chad today 26 July 2023.

General Ali maintained that to restore law and order in Lake Chad basin region, all hands must be on deck to achieve the force mandate. He appealed for more support from the Head of Mission to deliver his tasks of commanding the joint forces appreciating LCBC for leading the political angle of the mission.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, LCBC Ambassador Mamman Nuhu acknowledged the new commander’s enthusiastic and inclusive style of leadership. This style, he said, sets a positive precedent for the MNJTF, reflecting a clear commitment to the task force’s mandate. The general encompassing leadership approach has been seen to boost morale within ranks, promoting a unity of purpose towards achieving set objectives.

Ambassador Nuhu who is also the Head of Mission, MNJTF highlighted the unwavering commitment exhibited by the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs). He noted that their continued support is a testament of the collective will to establish and maintain security in the region. He lauded their dedication, declaring it as a pivotal factor in the progression and success of the MNJTF’s operations.

Recalled that Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali took over recently as the tenth Force Commander, MNJTF. He pledged to bring his more than three decades of experience to tackle the Boko Haram menace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

Theatre Commander Tours Sector 2 Area Of Responsibility…charges troops on vigilance, alertness

The Theatre Commander (TC) Major General GU Chibuisi, on Tuesday, 25 Jul 2023, embarked on an operational tour of Sector 2 Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) Damaturu, Yobe State.

He was received during the visit by the Commander Sector 2 JTF (NE) OPHK, Maj Gen MLD Saraso, where he was also briefed on activities of the sector.

Addressing troops during the visit, at Headquarters Sector 2, the TC charged them to always be at alert and remain vigilant against emerging threats. He also urged them to decisively deal with insurgence and other criminal elements in the AOR.

The TC further enjoined troops to remain committed in the fight against insurgency and other criminal activitivies just as he urged both officers and soldiers to always maintain very good relationship with the members of public, in order to get positive information that will assist in ongoing operations across the Theatre.

TC however warned troops against involvement in any act of misconduct which could jeopardize operations, assuring that he will do the best he can to address the challenges facing the various sectors within the theatre of Operations.

Highlights of the visit were group photograph, tour to level 11 Field Hospital, New Barracks, and Detention facility within the Barracks. There after proceeded to other Units under Sector 2 AOR.

NCC alerts public on Fraudulent LinkedIn Account Impersonating Executive Vice Chairman

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) wishes to draw public attention to a fraudulent LinkedIn Account impersonating the person, and office of the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta.

Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs in a press release he signed on July 27, 2023, said, the account was obviously created by some unscrupulous and criminal elements with a view to defrauding unsuspecting members of the public and users of social media who may think that such an account belongs to the EVC of NCC.

For the avoidance of doubt, the EVC/CEO of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, has no LinkedIn Account. Therefore, any such account found on social media or any other platform, purporting to belong to the EVC of NCC, is fake!

We are working with appropriate security agencies to investigate the source of this fraudulent act with a view to nipping it to the bud.

We urge members of the public, and our esteemed stakeholders to be cautious, and vigilant, while on social media platforms, or in the cyberspace as many of these fraudulent individuals and groups abound, looking for unsuspecting users to defraud.

The Commission has a presence on the Internet with the official website (www.ncc.gov.ng), and key social media platforms. All information about our activities, programmes and reports are verifiable on our website and on our verified social media handles.

We also encourage everyone to follow our official social media accounts for credible updates and announcements.

Members of the public are advised to be carefully guided when accessing or using information from social media.

Just In: Armed Forces of Nigeria neutralized 59 terrorists, arrests 88 criminals

By Emmanuel Daudu

Recently,  the Armed Forces of Nigeria is engaged in several operations across the 6 geopolitical zones to tackle the security challenges confronting the nation.

Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations, in a press release signed on 28 July 23, the military has neutralized 59 terrorists and arrested a total number of 88 criminals, 10 kidnappers, 20 gunmen, and 19 suspected oil thefts. Troops have also rescued 88 kidnapped hostages.

In the course of operations across the country troops recovered a total number of 68 weapons and 1,364 ammunition. Troops recovered 26 AK47 rifles, 1 GPMG, 1 AKMS rifle, 1 FN rifle, 4 pump action, 5 pistols, and 19 Dane guns. Also, recovered are 1,083 rounds 7.62mm special, 228 rounds 7.62mm NATO, 14 rounds 5.56 x 45mm, 15 fully loaded AK47 magazines, 9 rounds of 9mm ammo, and the sum of N41,915.00 only, and CFA 49,000.  Others include 323,650 liters of stolen crude oil, 128,700 liters of illegally refined AGO and 4,000 liters of DPK. While an estimated sum of N388,441,660.00 was denied the oil thefts.

Additional details of the operational activities conducted by the military are herein attached as part of the press release.

NiMet Bags Service Provider Of The Year Award

For any organisation big on service delivery, the objective is to consistently meet and even exceed customers’ expectations.

So when stakeholders in the industry recognize such organisation, it is no mean feat.

This is the view of stakeholders about the Nigerian Meteorological Agency as the Agency was awarded the Service Provider of the year 2022 award by the League of Airport and Aviation Corespondents (LAAC).
The award, which was in recognition of NiMet’s improved service delivery, was presented at the 27th annual conference of LAAC that held at the Providence Hotel, Lagos this Thursday.

Earlier in his address at the event, the Director General/CEO of Nigerian Meteorological Agency Prof Mansur Bako Matazu described the role of the media in nation building as very important and requires courage, selflessness and truth, which he ascribes to LAAC in the aviation industry.
“The role of the media in nation building is very important and it requires courage, selflessness and truth while being patriotic. Such is the role of LAAC in the Aviation industry.
As the nation’s aviation media umbrella body with the responsibility of ensuring adequate coverage and reportage of activities within the industry, LAAC is strategic to the visibility, relevance and growth of the industry”, he noted.

Prof. Matazu who was represented by the Director of Research and Training, Prof Effiom Essien Oku described the aviation industry as dynamic vulnerable and fast paced in terms of changing technology.

The Aviation industry is one of the fastest growing industries with tremendous contribution to the GDP by providing revenue to the nation; livelihoods for workers; catalytic support to other sectors and growth for the nation among others.

The event was well attended by stakeholders in the Aviation sector and featured paper presentations, panel discussions and the presentation of LAAC magazine, Travelwatch

GOC 2 DIVISION TOURS 22 BRIGADE ILLORIN

In continuation of his familiarisation visits to formations and units under his Division , the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army Ibadan Maj Gen Valentine Okoro recently visited 22 Brigade Illorin. He was received and briefed on arrival by the Commander Brig Gen Adebayo Babalola.

In his address to troops, the GOC thanked them for their service to the nation and urged them to put in more effort in their avowed role of keeping the nation at peace at all times. Maj Gen Okoro informed the troops of the readiness of the Chief of Army Staff in tackling their welfare needs and urged them to reciprocate in working extra hard to keep the nation safe.

At the Government House Illorin, the Deputy Governor Kwara State Mr Kayode Alabi who received the GOC congratulated him on his appointment and promised the continued support of the government and people of the state towards ensuring a more peaceful Nigeia

In the same vein, the Emir of Illorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji( Dr) Ibrahim Sulu Gambari praised the Army in the fight against terrorism and criminality in the country. He assured the GOC of his domain continued support for a peaceful and prosperous nation.

The high points of the visit includes the commissioning of observations posts to aid security in the Barracks, visit to FOB Pategi.

Police set to  investigate  Comedian Abdulgafar Abiola Over Skit

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Police Force has said that in as much as the law grants Nigerians the right to enjoy their fundamental human rights, the same law prohibits an individual, under whatever guise, from rubbishing the police institution or grossly violating its provisions with regards to the use of uniforms.

According to Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters Abuja, in a press release he signed on Thursday said, “We, therefore, vehemently condemn the contemptuous act displayed by comedian Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as “Cute Abiola,” in two recent skits posted on his social media handles on 20th and 24th July, 2023. The skits in question show a highly disrespectful and derogatory portrayal of the police uniform, an action that is in direct violation of Section 251 of the Criminal Code and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law. Such acts are not only offensive but also undermine the integrity and dignity of the men and women who wear the uniform in service to the nation.

“Abdulgafar Abiola will be investigated and possibly prosecuted for his deliberate acts as the NPF had already warned skit makers and filmmakers to desist from desecrating its uniform or accoutrements. The Force is committed to upholding the sanctity of the uniform and will pursue due legal process to ensure accountability for any individual or entity that seeks to bring disrepute to the uniform or the institution it represents. We call on all members of the public, including media personalities, to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly and avoid engaging in actions that could erode public trust in our revered law enforcement institutions”.

Taraba APC Stakeholders laud Tinubu for nominating Sen. Danladi as minister

The top players of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, led by the party’s leader, Sen. David Jimkuta, have commended President Bola Tinubu, for nominating former Acting Governor of Taraba, Sen Sani Danladi as minister.

The stakeholders include former Acting Governor of Taraba, Alh Garba Umar UTC, former Gubernatorial Aspirant, Chief David Sabo Kente, Sen. Yusuf A Yusuf, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim and Muazu Jaji Sambo.

Others include; Sen. Dalhatu Sangari, Gen A.T Ibrahim, Chief Ezekiel Afukonyo, Bobboi Kaigama, Sen. Anthony George Manzo and Hon. Jerry Manwe.

In a statement signed by Jimkuta on Thursday, the Taraba APC stakeholders expressed gratitude to Tinubu for rewarding the party loyalist with such nomination.

”We are expressing our gratitude to President Tinubu for recognising Sen.Sani Abubakar’s competence and loyalty to the party.

”This appointment is well-deserved and a testament to Sen. Abubakar’s commitment to serving the people of Taraba State.

”We also commend the President for his leadership and vision in selecting competent individuals to drive the agenda of the party at the national level.

”We are expressing confidence in Sen Abubakar’s ability to deliver on this new role as minister, to bring positive change to our dear Taraba State.

”Furthermore, we pledge our support and cooperation to Sen. Abubakar, and assure him of our readiness to work together for the development of Taraba State,” the Taraba APC stalwarts said.

The stakeholders therefore, called on all party members in the state to unite, close ranks and rally behind Abubakar, to enable him deliver effectively on his new mandate.

”In conclusion, we are expressing our optimism that Sen. Abubakar’s appointment would bring about the much-needed unity, peace development and progress to the Taraba State Chapter of the APC.

”We urge him to be diligent, dedicated, and proactive in fulfilling his responsibilities as minister.

”We also reiterate our commitment to the success of the APC in Taraba State and pledge to work tirelessly towards upholding the values of the party in Taraba State,” the statement read.

Gov. Agbu Unity Cup 2023: European Football Scouts To Storm Taraba For Talent Hunt

Taraba State is set to host European Football Scouts during the maden edition of Dr Kefas Agbu Peace and Unity Cup 2023

Ambassador Joseph Joshua, Taraba State Commissioner of Youth & Sports has disclosed to newsmen on Monday in Abuja

Joshua revealed that 15 teams from each Geo-political zone of the state will be participating in the tournament,

he further stated that talents abound in Taraba and needs to be nurtured, adding that with programme like this, players with innate ability will have the opportunity to flourish

The Agbu Peace and Unity cup is expected to attract top European football scouts into the country

The scouts were to select talented players, with the aim of exposing them to global and international football clubs.

The youth and sports boss has said that the initiative will also advance youth football, especially at the grassroots level, through a designed curriculum that has potential to develop fundamental technical skills and tactical awareness in young players who are committed to competing at the highest levels.

He said the vision of the state governor was aim at developing and creating opportunities for young football talents in Taraba to realise their dreams of becoming stars in future.”

The visiting scouts will have abundance of talents in Taraba State to select for trials with partner clubs in Europe. Joshua said

Lamido of Adamawa Commends NCC’s Consumer Protection Initiatives

The Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Mustapha, has commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on a range of its telecom consumer protection initiatives, including the recent Village Square Dialogue (VSD), which held at the weekend in Yola, Adamawa State.


According to a press release signed by Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs, July 24, 2023, said, Kakakin Adamawa, Prof. Abubakar Tahir, who represented Lamido Adamawa at the Consumer Conversation programme of the Commission with the theme: “Know Your Rights as Telecom Consumers” in Yola, said the event marked a privilege for individual telecom consumers and businesses in the state to ask questions and get face-to-face response from the regulator on telecom-related issues.

“We must commend the NCC for the great work it has been doing in the area of consumer education and enlightenment. Aside from being the regulator of the sector, the NCC leadership has taken the issue of consumer information very central; and we thank you for bringing this laudable initiative to the good people of Adamawa,” he said. 

The royal father advised the Commission to also consider exploring other areas that can lead to further reduction in the cost of telecom services and to ensure that services are available in most parts of the country.

“The Commission should kindly look inwards and ensure that all communities in the country continue to enjoy cheaper, better, qualitative and more accessible telecommunications services,” he said.

NCC’s Director of Consumer Affairs, Alkasim Umar, who represented the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, said the regulator has always been at the forefront of ensuring maximum protection for telecom consumers while providing the enabling environment for the licensed service providers to be able to provide good quality of service to the consumers.

“The NCC remains committed to its mandate of protecting, informing and educating consumers of telecoms services across all the 36 states of the Federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This essence of the Village Square Dialogue, as one of our outreach events, is to provide a face-to-face interaction among the NCC, the service providers and the consumers,” Umar said. 

Speaking on some of the consumer-centric initiatives of the Commission, Umar said the Commission recently introduced the harmonized shortcodes which provide uniform codes for telecom consumers to access any consumer service type across all networks, either for airtime loading, checking airtime balance, call centres, data plan balance, and so on. 

He also reminded the consumers of the availability of the NCC Toll-Free Number, 622, which consumers can use to make complaints to the Commission on any telecom service-related issues they may be having with their service providers; the 112 Emergency Number to seek succour during emergencies, as well as the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) 2442 Short Code to block unsolicited messages.

“Information and education are key to the empowerment of telecom consumers. The protection of the rights and interests of telecom consumers is one of the mandates of the Commission, as enshrined in the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003. When telecom consumers are duly informed and educated, they are protected against the unfair practices by the service providers,” Umar said.

Speaking further, Umar said everything in the current digital world revolves around telecommunications services and that educating consumers plays an important role in informing them, clarifying issues, and empowering them through information and enlightenment. 

“So, it is a great decision which will sensitize the people about their rights, their privileges and the expectations they have about the telecom businesses in the country,” he added.