Defence Minister Moves To End Overseas Treatment, Pushes Stronger Military Healthcare System

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s huge spending on foreign medical treatment may soon reduce significantly as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen local healthcare services for military personnel and their families.

This assurance was given by the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a courtesy visit to the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, where he pledged renewed commitment to improving healthcare delivery within the Armed Forces and expanding Nigeria’s in-country treatment capacity.

Speaking during the visit, the retired General said the Ministry of Defence is determined to build a self-reliant military healthcare system capable of providing quality, accessible and timely medical care to personnel without the need for costly overseas treatment.

According to him, Nigeria must begin to place confidence in its own medical institutions by investing in facilities and services that can compete with global standards.
“We have spent enormous resources on medical tourism over the years. The goal now is to strengthen our institutions and ensure Nigerians, especially our military personnel, receive world-class care at home,” he stated.

The Defence Minister disclosed that reforms are already underway in the Defence Health Sector, including improved medical screening, early diagnosis mechanisms and expanded capacity to manage critical illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases.

He also revealed plans to establish a comprehensive mental health support framework for military personnel dealing with the psychological pressures associated with counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations across the country.

Addressing the security situation, General Musa raised concerns over the dangers faced by medical personnel operating in conflict zones, stressing that measures are being introduced to improve their protection and operational support.

The minister further announced plans to harmonise medical reporting systems across the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force to improve coordination, efficiency and healthcare delivery within the military structure.

He added that the Ministry is also collaborating with international partners to enhance training, medical expertise and healthcare standards for military institutions nationwide.

During the visit, the minister met with Officer Cadet Salim Abdulnazir, who is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during training at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He commended the management and staff of AMCE for their professionalism and commitment to quality healthcare service delivery.

General Musa expressed optimism that the ongoing interventions would strengthen personnel welfare, improve health outcomes and build a more resilient military healthcare system for the country.

In her remarks, the Chief Medical Officer of AMCE, Aisha Umar, reaffirmed the centre’s readiness to partner with the Ministry of Defence, noting that the facility possesses state-of-the-art medical equipment and highly trained professionals capable of delivering healthcare services that meet international standards.

The statement was signed by Captain Moses Yare for the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

One Acre Fund Nigeria Deploys 9,000 Tonnes of Farm Inputs to 88,000 Farmers Ahead of Planting Season

Maryam Aminu

As concerns over food inflation and declining agricultural productivity continue to mount across Nigeria, One Acre Fund Nigeria has commenced the distribution of 9,000 tonnes of agricultural inputs to 88,000 smallholder farmers in a major push to strengthen national food security ahead of the 2026 planting season.

The intervention, which includes the delivery of seeds, fertilizers, and other essential farm inputs on credit, is expected to be completed before May 31, according to a statement issued by the Communications Lead of the organisation, Kazi Nanyah.

The social enterprise said the initiative is targeted at tackling persistent challenges facing rural farmers, particularly poor access to credit facilities and inefficient distribution channels that often delay planting activities and reduce yields.

Under the programme, participating farmers will also receive agronomic training, advisory support, and digital services aimed at improving productivity and strengthening climate resilience. The organisation noted that the model has consistently helped farmers nearly double maize yields while increasing household income by an average of $328 per farming season.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, a 24-year-old maize farmer from Pyatta village in Niger State, Keziah Danjuma, said access to quality farm inputs through the programme has significantly improved her livelihood.

“Since I started farming with One Acre Fund, I now receive quality seed and fertilizer on credit right here in my village. My maize yield has nearly doubled, and the extra income has allowed me to invest more in my family,” she said.

The organisation further disclosed that women and youths account for more than 35 per cent of the beneficiaries, reflecting efforts to promote inclusive agricultural development across rural communities.

One Acre Fund Nigeria said its intervention strategy focuses on three key areas boosting productivity through improved inputs and training, strengthening farmers’ resilience with climate-smart solutions and tree planting, and expanding market access to improve livelihoods.

Since commencing operations in Nigeria in 2018, the organisation said it has supported more than 600,000 farmers across Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau states through access to financing, quality inputs, extension services, and market linkages.

Experts Advocate Clean Energy, Sustainable Entrepreneurship at WSDGsO-Nigeria Webinar

Maryam Aminu

Stakeholders in sustainable development and climate advocacy have called on Nigerians to embrace innovation, clean energy, and environmentally responsible entrepreneurship as pathways to economic growth and national development.

The call was made on Friday 8th May, 2026 during a webinar hosted by the Nigerian chapter of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization (WSDGsO) with the theme, “Innovating for Profit & Planet: Profit with Purpose as it Relates to Youth Empowerment in Nigeria.”

The virtual engagement brought together environmental advocates, and young participants to explore how businesses can remain profitable while contributing positively to society and the environment.

Speaking during the webinar, Deputy Director, Climate Action, WSDGsO, Rhoda Ibrahim said the initiative was designed to provide Nigerian youths with practical knowledge on how innovation can be transformed into sustainable business opportunities.

She explained that the programme sought to encourage youths to create enterprises that not only generate income but also address environmental concerns and support long-term development goals.

According to her, empowering young people with sustainability-driven ideas remains essential to building resilient communities and achieving global development targets.

She reiterated the organisation’s commitment to youth empowerment and climate-conscious development initiatives.

In her remarks, American Continental Governor, WSDGsO, Prof. Doreen O. Yusuf emphasized the importance of adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing dependence on plastics, particularly in food consumption.

She warned that continuous exposure to harmful plastic materials poses significant environmental and public health risks, urging Nigerians to adopt safer and more sustainable alternatives.

Also speaking, George Okoye highlighted the role of sustainability and clean energy in shaping Nigeria’s future economy.

Okoye noted that renewable energy and green innovations present enormous opportunities for job creation, industrial growth, and environmental protection, especially for young entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in emerging sectors.

He urged youths to embrace clean energy solutions and equip themselves with relevant skills that would enable them to thrive in the rapidly evolving global green economy.

Participants at the webinar engaged in discussions bordering on climate action, sustainable innovation, green entrepreneurship, and strategies for balancing profitability with environmental responsibility.

The organisation noted that the webinar formed part of ongoing efforts to promote awareness on sustainable development goals, climate resilience, youth inclusion, and community-driven environmental solutions across Nigeria.

The event was organised on behalf of the Nigerian Country Representative of the organisation, H.E. Farila Sulaiman Ibrahim.

FG Moves To Create Green Jobs for Youths Through CNG, EV Skills Partnership

Maryam Aminu

In a major push to prepare young Nigerians for opportunities in the fast-growing clean energy economy, the Federal Government has partnered with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EV) to train youths in CNG retrofitting and clean energy technologies.

The partnership, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Abuja on Friday, is expected to equip corps members and other young Nigerians with practical technical skills in CNG conversion, maintenance, and emerging automotive technologies aimed at boosting employment and entrepreneurship.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to position Nigerian youths at the centre of the country’s transition to cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives.

According to him, the collaboration aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda on job creation, technical innovation, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

“This collaboration goes beyond signing documents. It is about creating jobs, building skills, and preparing Nigerian youths for emerging opportunities within the evolving economy,” the minister said.

Olawande noted that with the government intensifying the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative to conventional fuel, the demand for skilled manpower in the sector would continue to grow.

He stressed that Nigerian youths must be adequately prepared to take advantage of opportunities within the clean energy and automotive industries rather than being sidelined by global technological shifts.

Pictorial Story: Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande (middle), Director-General, NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu (left), and Director-General, NADDC, Otunba Joseph Osanipin, during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on youth skills development in CNG retrofitting and clean energy mobility in Abuja.

Under the arrangement, corps members participating in the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme will receive hands-on training in CNG conversion and maintenance, with the goal of enhancing employability, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.

The Minister commended the NYSC, NADDC, and Pi-CNG for expanding access to technical and vocational opportunities for young Nigerians across the country.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, represented by the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Anthony Chukwuka, described the initiative as a timely intervention that would strengthen institutional collaboration and improve youth-focused policy implementation.

The Director-General of the NYSC, Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, reaffirmed the scheme’s commitment to expanding the SAED programme to provide corps members with practical technical exposure and entrepreneurial capacity.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NADDC, Joseph Osanipin, said the collaboration would help accelerate local automotive innovation while building the skilled workforce required for Nigeria’s clean energy mobility transition.

Chairman of Pi-CNG and EV, Ismaeel Ahmed, represented by Special Assistant Omo Imoukhuede, said the initiative would deepen CNG adoption and electric vehicle integration while creating sustainable green jobs for Nigerian youths.

The Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring and Delivery), Titilope Gbadamosi, also assured stakeholders of effective monitoring and implementation of youth-focused programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Defence Minister Hails ICRC’s Humanitarian Role, Seeks Stronger Support Against Terrorism

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has applauded the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for its expanding humanitarian interventions in Nigeria’s conflict-ridden North-East and North-West regions, as authorities intensify efforts to tackle insurgency and restore stability in affected communities.

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, gave the commendation while receiving a delegation of the ICRC at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja, stressing that Nigeria remains committed to promoting human rights and adhering to international best practices in civil-military relations.

The Minister, according to a statement signed by Moses Yare for the Director of Information and Public Relations, lamented the persistent insurgency in parts of the North-East and North-West and called on all stakeholders to support ongoing military operations against terrorism.


“Security is everybody’s business and all must unite against terrorism,” Musa stated, while urging stronger collaboration among security agencies, humanitarian organisations and local communities in addressing the country’s security challenges.

Earlier, the Head of Delegation of the ICRC in Nigeria, Doris El Doueihy, expressed appreciation for the continued cooperation between the humanitarian organisation and the Nigerian military, describing the partnership as crucial to delivering aid to conflict-affected populations.

She also commended the Federal Government for the recent launch of a new training programme for military police in Zaria and reaffirmed the ICRC’s commitment to expanding humanitarian operations across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states.

El Doueihy, however, appealed to the government to discourage prolonged detention without family access, urging authorities to allow Red Cross officials access to detainees to facilitate communication with their relatives.

She further lauded progress made in detainee hearings and called for faster coordination with the Ministry of Justice to ease overcrowding in detention facilities.

FG Targets 50,000 Youths for Global Digital Jobs in Fresh Empowerment Drive

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to train 50,000 young Nigerians in digital skills as part of a sweeping youth empowerment strategy aimed at tackling unemployment and positioning Nigeria’s workforce for global opportunities.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a media interview with African Independent Television (AIT), where he outlined the administration’s renewed focus on large-scale, impact-driven youth development programmes.

According to the Minister, the initiative is anchored on a strategic partnership with The Digital School (TDS), supported by the Government of the United Arab Emirates, and is expected to produce at least 5,000 internationally certified and job-ready youths within the first six months.

He explained that the programme forms part of broader efforts by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to expand access to digital jobs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and sustainable livelihoods for young Nigerians across the country.

Olawande said the Ministry is also deepening sector-based collaborations, including a partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), to boost youth participation in agriculture and agribusiness.

He added that government is scaling up internship schemes, gig economy opportunities, startup support initiatives, and digital literacy programmes through collaborations with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

To improve transparency and ensure merit-based access to opportunities, the Minister said the Ministry has introduced a digital engagement platform known as “Nigerian New Tech.”
“We are moving away from fragmented and tokenistic approaches to youth development. Our focus is to build sustainable systems that empower young Nigerians at scale and with real impact,” Olawande stated.

He added: “Through our partnership with The Digital School and the UAE Government, we are not just training youths; we are preparing them for global opportunities, whether they choose to work remotely or internationally.”

The Minister stressed that the administration remains committed to inclusive youth development, particularly for young people in underserved and informal sectors who have long been excluded from structured opportunities.

He further assured that youth development would remain central to Nigeria’s economic growth agenda, noting that the Ministry would continue to expand strategic partnerships and implement sustainable empowerment frameworks nationwide.

Regional Unity Emerges As Critical Weapon Against Rising Security Threats

Emmanuel Daudu

As insecurity continues to test the resilience of nations across West and Central Africa from terrorism to cross-border criminal networks, leaders are increasingly turning to collective action as the most potent response. The growing complexity of threats in the Lake Chad Basin has reinforced a simple but urgent truth: no country can tackle these challenges alone.

It is against this backdrop that Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and collective security during a high-level meeting in N’Djamena, Chad.

The meeting, convened under the framework of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), brought together Defence Ministers and top security officials from troop-contributing countries including Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin. The gathering served as a strategic platform to assess ongoing military operations and recalibrate joint efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring stability in the region.

During deliberations, General Musa stressed that sustained collaboration among member states remains crucial to degrading insurgent groups and addressing the fluid security landscape in the Lake Chad Basin. He noted that intelligence sharing, coordinated military strategies, and unified political will are indispensable in confronting threats that transcend national borders.

The high-level talks also featured detailed briefings from Chiefs of Defence Staff and heads of intelligence agencies, who presented reports on the operational performance of the MNJTF and emerging security dynamics. Behind closed doors, Ministers engaged in frank discussions on pressing challenges, including force deployment logistics, funding limitations, and the ever-evolving tactics of insurgent groups.

In his remarks, the Nigerian Defence Minister commended the government and people of Chad for hosting the meeting and acknowledged their leadership within the MNJTF framework.

Participating Ministers also expressed appreciation to the Chadian leadership for its continued support in advancing regional peace and security initiatives.

The N’Djamena meeting marks yet another step in strengthening regional alliances, reinforcing a shared understanding that unity, rather than isolation, holds the key to overcoming one of Africa’s most persistent security crises.

Defence Minister Bags Rare NIS Fellowship, Sets New Benchmark in National Recognition

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reached a significant personal and professional milestone following his conferment with a prestigious Honorary Fellowship an honour rarely bestowed and reserved for individuals with exceptional national impact.

The fellowship, awarded by the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), was formally presented on May 4, 2026, at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, in recognition of General Musa’s outstanding leadership, dedicated service, and notable contributions to national security.

Confirming the development, the Ministry of Defence, in a statement signed by Enderline Chukwu, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, described the recognition as both historic and well-deserved.

The Ministry noted that the award underscores the Defence Minister’s unwavering commitment to professionalism and his strategic role in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

According to the NIS, the ceremony was initially slated for December 2025 but was rescheduled to an earlier date due to pressing service demands, ensuring timely acknowledgement of the Minister’s exceptional performance.

The institution further highlighted that this marks only the second time in its history that such a distinguished honour has been conferred, underscoring the rarity and significance of the recognition.

The Ministry also emphasized that the honour reflects not just General Musa’s individual accomplishments but the collective resilience and dedication of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and supporting national development.

Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the Ministry pledged to deepen partnerships with professional bodies like the NIS, recognizing their critical contributions to national growth.

Founded in 1934 as the Licensed Surveyors Association under the leadership of nationalist Herbert Heelas Macaulay, the NIS has evolved over the decades into one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected professional institutions, playing a key role in land administration and development planning.

GEN. MUSA URGES NIGERIAN STUDENTS TO PLAY ACTIVE ROLE IN NATIONAL SECURITY

“Students Have a Role to Play in Fighting Insecurity” — Gen. Musa

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has called on Nigerian students to actively contribute to the country’s security, emphasizing that safeguarding national unity is a collective responsibility.

According to
Queenet Iheoma-Hart Chief information officer (CIO ), For: Director, Press and Public Relations
Gen. Musa made the call on Monday, 4 May 2026, while addressing students from the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy, Veritas University, Abuja, during an educational visit to the Ministry.

“Students, as youths and future leaders, have a vital role to play in fighting insecurity. See and report everything happening around you. The nation’s unity is not for government alone; everyone has a role to play in the peace and security of the nation,” he said.

The Minister fielded questions on technological gaps, food and human security, and Nigeria’s recent Memorandum of Understanding with Turkey. He noted that the Ministry is working to deepen collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to address technological shortfalls. He added that the Ministry is also leveraging its land holdings to support food production through mechanized agriculture.

On local defence production, Gen. Musa disclosed that technologically skilled Nigerians are being integrated with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to produce military equipment such as drones. He stated that local production is the most sustainable solution to equipment shortages, particularly given the difficulties in procuring arms due to the ongoing Iran crisis.

He further urged students to shun cybercrime and instead harness local resources and creativity for national development. The Minister also expressed the view that military training should be accessible to all Nigerians, as it instills discipline, commitment, and a balanced perspective on life. “Military training is not punishment. It challenges you, expands your view about life, and builds resilience. Too much comfort can stifle creativity and leave people unchallenged,” he said.

On Nigeria’s partnership with Turkey, Gen. Musa observed that Turkey has over 40 years’ experience combating terrorism and that Nigeria intends to draw from the technology and strategies that have helped Turkey address the threat.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, received the 54 students and their lecturer. He explained that the visit was designed to give students practical insight into Nigeria’s defence architecture and to provide guidance on careers in strategic studies, intelligence, and national security.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the group leader described the visit as an enlightening experience that has strengthened the students’ understanding of the Ministry’s critical role in ensuring peace, stability, and national development.

Directors from the Ministry were present at the event and the Press.

RMAFC Pushes Urgent Reforms to Fast-Track Investments, Boost Nigeria’s Competitiveness

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s bid to attract both local and foreign investors has received fresh momentum as the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) calls for sweeping reforms to eliminate bureaucratic delays and modernise the country’s investment processes.

The call was made during a high-level engagement in Abuja where a delegation led by Hon. Enefe Ekene, Chairman of RMAFC’s Investment Monitoring Committee, met with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole.

Speaking at the meeting, Ekene warned that Nigeria risks losing critical investment opportunities if it fails to match global standards, particularly in business registration and investor onboarding timelines.

He noted that waiting two to three weeks to register a company is no longer competitive in today’s fast-moving global economy.

According to him, investors now gravitate toward jurisdictions offering faster, predictable, and seamless systems. “The global investment landscape has evolved. Investors expect efficiency systems where processes are completed within days, not weeks,” he said, stressing that delays could push investors toward more responsive economies.

Ekene further highlighted a strategic shift in RMAFC’s role, noting that the Commission is increasingly focused on driving revenue growth, not just sharing it.

He explained that improving the investment climate is key to expanding Nigeria’s revenue base and achieving sustainable economic growth.

Responding, Oduwole acknowledged existing gaps within Nigeria’s investment ecosystem but assured that reforms are underway to enhance coordination and service delivery across government institutions.

She revealed that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is prioritising stronger institutional synergy to improve investor experience.

The Minister pointed to ongoing collaboration with agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission to streamline business registration and related services, adding that while progress has been recorded, deeper reforms are still required to achieve efficiency and transparency.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with RMAFC and other stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s investment landscape in line with the government’s economic agenda.

Other members of the RMAFC delegation also contributed to the discussions, raising key issues including enhanced support for domestic investors, clearer operational frameworks for Export Free Zones, and improved inter-agency coordination to simplify investor processes.

The meeting underscores a growing push within government circles to dismantle structural barriers to investment, improve ease of doing business, and position Nigeria as a more attractive destination for capital inflows.