FG Commissions 800 Special Forces to Bolster Fight Against Insecurity

Emmanuel Daudu

In a major boost to Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, the Federal Government has commissioned the first batch of 800 elite Special Operations Forces (SOF) trained to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats across the country.

The graduation ceremony, held at Camp Kabala, Jaji, was presided over by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who described the development as a strategic step in strengthening national security under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“These elite troops represent the nation’s renewed resolve to crush insecurity. They are not just armed with advanced training and tools, but with the character and discipline required to protect our people,” Dr. Matawalle stated.

The troops are set to be deployed to high-risk areas including Zamfara, Kaduna, and the North-East.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized that their mission is one of peace, urging them to operate with “precision, courage, justice, and humanity.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, lauded the resilience of the graduates and instructors, describing the SOF as a “vital pillar” of Nigeria’s defence system in addressing modern threats.

Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, also charged the new forces to maintain high ethical standards, reminding them that the military remains a disciplined and honourable institution.

Oyetola Rallies Stakeholders for Implementation of National Marine and Blue Economy Policy

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold move to drive Nigeria’s marine sector transformation, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Wednesday led a high-level Citizens and Stakeholders Forum at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, to accelerate the implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, recently approved by the Federal Executive Council.

Themed “Strengthening Collaboration for Effective Implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy”, the forum brought together top players from government agencies, industry, academia, and civil society to forge a unified action plan for Nigeria’s marine ecosystem.

In his keynote, Oyetola hailed the creation of the Ministry as a strategic innovation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that the new policy provides a structured roadmap to unlock economic opportunities in maritime security, port infrastructure, ocean governance, coastal tourism, marine biotechnology, renewable energy, and aquaculture.

“This is not a ceremonial event but a practical working session to define institutional responsibilities and measurable outcomes,” Oyetola stressed, while calling for enhanced inter-agency coordination, accountability, and stakeholder inclusion.

He announced key developments, including the ongoing reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports and digital upgrades such as the Port Community System and a One-Stop-Shop port clearance system aimed at decongesting ports and boosting investor confidence.

The Minister also confirmed efforts to revive a National Shipping Carrier under a public-private partnership and the preparation for disbursing the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund to strengthen indigenous shipping capacity.

Oyetola highlighted the Ministry’s 75% performance score in 2024, which placed it among the top-performing MDAs, and commended its Delivery Task Teams for driving this achievement despite structural challenges.

On inland waterways, he revealed that over 42,000 life jackets have been distributed and safety regulations enforced through the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), reducing boat mishaps and restoring public trust in water transport.

Other key updates include the revival of fishing terminals, automation of licensing systems, and the Ministry’s digitisation efforts that have improved efficiency and revenue generation.

Oyetola also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional maritime development with the operationalisation of the Regional Maritime Development Bank to be headquartered in Abuja.

Notably, he pointed to Nigeria’s successful maritime security strategy under the Deep Blue Project, which has kept piracy incidents at zero for three consecutive years, and noted Nigeria’s bid for a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.

Earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olufemi Michael Oloruntola, welcomed participants and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive policy implementation through quarterly stakeholder engagements.

He praised the Minister’s leadership and lauded ongoing reform efforts.

The forum featured active participation from leaders across maritime agencies, shipowners, terminal operators, freight forwarders, Customs, Navy, tech agencies, and women’s groups setting a strong foundation for collaborative and structured implementation of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Policy.

SGF George Akume Bags National Peace and Unity Award as GAPU Unveils List of Honourees

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, will be among high-profile Nigerians to be honoured at the forthcoming National Peace and Unity Summit organized by the Global Alliance for Peace and Unity (GAPU).

Chairman of the Summit’s Publicity Committee, Maryam Aminu, disclosed that the summit, scheduled for Wednesday, July 10, 2025, at the Royal Choice Inn Hotel, Abuja, will bring together over 1,000 delegates from across the nation to deliberate on the theme: “Peace and Unity as a Panacea for Democratic and Economic Development.”

Senator Akume will be recognised as the “Icon of Peace/Unity and Pillar of Democracy in Nigeria” in celebration of his exemplary public service, statesmanship, and enduring contributions to national cohesion.

The highlight of the summit will be the presentation of prestigious awards to notable public figures whose efforts have contributed significantly to peacebuilding, national integration, infrastructural development, and grassroots empowerment.

Among the recipients are:

His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State as Peace Governor of the Year 2025

His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, PhD, Governor of Benue State as Icon of Peace/Unity and Infrastructural Development Governor of the Year 2025

His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, Governor of Niger State as Best Peace/Security and Agricultural Development Governor of the Year 2025

Hajia Munirat Abdullahi, Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Planning, Nasarawa State as Amazon of Peace and Best Female Commissioner of Finance in Nigeria

Others include: Sen. Ewemazino Thomas Joel Onowakpo as Icon of Peace and Grassroots Development in Nigeria

Rt. Hon. Joshua Audu Gana, Member, House of Representatives as Icon of Peace and Youth Empowerment in Nigeria

Silas Ali Agara, DG, National Directorate of Employment as Icon of Peace and Youth Development in Nigeria

Rt. Hon. Jeremiah Umaru, Member, House of Representatives as Icon of Unity and Youth Empowerment in Nigeria

Rt. Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Member, House of Representatives as Peace and Unity Advocate in Nigeria

Rt. Hon. Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba, Federal Lawmaker as Icon of Peace/Unity and Grassroots Development in Nigeria

Mr. Moses Jikka McDaniel, CEO of Gaji Luxury Hotels and Founder, McDaniel Foundation as Icon of Peace, Philanthropy, and Youth Empowerment in Nigeria

AIG Umar Shehu Nadada, Assistant Inspector General of Police as Icon of Peace and Security in Nigeria 2025

Hon. Ahmed Aliyu Tijani, Federal Commissioner/CEO, NCFRMI as Icon of Peace and Unity Award 2025 and

Hon. Barr. Mrs. Lois Hembadon Adura, UK-based Councillor as Amazon of Peace and Most Outstanding Female Girl-Child Advocate in Nigeria

GAPU believes that recognizing and celebrating these trailblazers will further encourage impactful governance, peaceful coexistence, and democratic resilience in Nigeria.

The summit will also feature keynote speeches and collaborative discussions aimed at identifying solutions to national challenges through unity and visionary leadership.

FG, Gender Mobile Initiative Sign Landmark MoU to Boost Youth Mental Health and Safety

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gender Mobile Initiative aimed at addressing youth mental health, safety, and capacity development across Nigeria.

The agreement, which marks a significant step forward in youth-focused policy implementation, will drive joint efforts in gender-based violence prevention, youth engagement, psycho-social support, and institutional capacity building.

Speaking at the MoU signing in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, described the initiative as timely. He noted its alignment with the recent approval by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the establishment of two new departments dedicated to youth mental health.

“Everything cannot be centered on youth employment and empowerment alone. Mental health is paramount. When our youth are psychologically sound, they can thrive in other areas,” Olusanya stated.

He assured that the Ministry will develop a comprehensive policy and framework to support the effective operation of the new departments, in collaboration with Gender Mobile Initiative, to ensure full implementation of the MoU.

7th from the right is the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya with the Partners and some Management Staff of the Ministry.

“Every content of the agreement will be implemented in the interest of Nigerian youth because they are the future leaders that will carry the nation forward,” he added.

In her remarks, Barrister Omowumi Ogunrotimi, Executive Director of Gender Mobile Initiative, highlighted the importance of giving youth a voice.

“This partnership offers a real opportunity to amplify the voices of young people, especially those whose experiences have been marginalized due to stigma and structural barriers,” Ogunrotimi said. “We believe that the safety, agency, and leadership of young people are non-negotiable pillars for national transformation.”

Director of Education and Youth Development at the Ministry, Mr. Kabiru Mohammed, in his welcome address, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the collaboration, noting it will significantly enhance the wellbeing of Nigerian youth and foster national development.

RMAFC Applauds President Tinubu for Signing Landmark Tax Reform Bills

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the recently passed tax reform bills and the RMAFC bill, describing the move as a bold and transformative step toward reshaping Nigeria’s fiscal landscape.

In a statement issued on June 30, 2025, RMAFC Chairman Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu hailed the reforms as historic, noting they will boost transparency, accountability, and efficiency in revenue generation while laying a strong foundation for economic growth and diversification.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the implementation of the reforms, which aim to broaden the tax base, improve compliance, and ease the burden on low-income earners.

RMAFC also praised the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, as well as the Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, for their collaborative efforts in bringing the reforms to fruition.

Dr. Shehu lauded President Tinubu’s leadership, stating the reforms reflect a deep understanding of the nation’s socio-economic realities and a commitment to national prosperity.

NOC President Habul Gumel Lauds MK’s Contributions to Nigerian Football

Maryam Aminu

The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Habul Gumel, has commended renowned football promoter Nureni Makanjuola, popularly known as MK, for his unwavering commitment and significant contributions to the development of Nigerian football.

Gumel made the remarks during a courtesy visit by Makanjuola, President of Water FC Academy, at the NOC headquarters in Abuja on Sunday. The two sports leaders engaged in in-depth discussions on issues affecting Nigeria’s sports ecosystem and exchanged ideas on strategies for long-term growth and development.

Describing MK as a “shining example of dedication and passion for football,” Gumel praised his efforts in nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots football through his academy.

He emphasized the importance of encouraging individuals like MK, whose commitment continues to shape the future of the sport in the country.

“The work being done by MK is inspiring,” said Gumel. “We need more private sector leaders to follow his example. His efforts are not only elevating football but also contributing meaningfully to the entire Nigerian sports landscape.”

MK’s Water FC Academy has produced several players who have represented Nigeria at various national and international levels, a feat Gumel said reflects MK’s long-term vision for football development in the country.

The NOC president’s recognition of MK’s role signals a growing awareness of the need for stronger private sector investment in sports. Stakeholders believe such collaborations are critical to transforming Nigeria’s sports sector and positioning the country for global success.

Gumel’s endorsement is expected to encourage more individuals and organizations to actively support and invest in Nigerian football, as the nation continues its quest to reclaim its place on the global sporting stage.

Honorable Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA,congratulates Citizens on the Arrival of the Islamic New Year 1447 after Hijra

Honorable Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA,The Shehu of Damaturu Congratulates Citizens on the Arrival of the Islamic New Year 1447 after Hijra.

According to the information that we received from the Office of the Vice Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA which is teaching and research Hospital Campuses are located in Santa Cruz Province Argentina South America Spain and Brazil with official partners constituent Campuses at government regulated universities world wide and online operations in person of The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as stated below:

The Shehu of Damaturu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar Al-Min Elkanemi, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to all Muslims on the occasion of the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1447 AH.

In his message, the Shehu expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting everyone the opportunity to witness yet another blessed year. He offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance in the year ahead.

The revered monarch also called on residents of Damaturu Emirate and beyond to uphold unity, peaceful coexistence, and mutual support. He emphasized the importance of helping one another and urged parents and guardians to prioritize the education and proper upbringing of children and youth.

The Shehu concluded by sending his best wishes to all, praying for a year filled with blessings, harmony, and progress.

Ill-Timed Panic and the Real Truth Behind Police to Pension Reforms

Maryam Aminu

Amid recent alarmist reports of a looming nationwide strike by alleged “aggrieved” police officers over pension reforms, Ambrose Ijeuwa has offered a strong rebuttal, urging the public to see through the sensationalism and recognize the ongoing, credible reforms in the police pension system.

In his commentary, Ijeuwa criticizes the tone and intent of the circulating reports, describing them as “cloaked in alarmist language” and aimed at sowing fear and distrust.

He notes that the suggestion that police officers have threatened to “maim or kill” colleagues who report for duty during a supposed strike is not only unfounded but “grossly irresponsible” and contrary to the ethos of the Nigeria Police Force, which is legally barred from engaging in industrial action.

While acknowledging that concerns about the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) are valid, Ijeuwa emphasizes that these are being addressed through structured dialogue involving the Ministry of Police Affairs, the National Assembly, pension regulators, and police representatives. “Reform is a process, not an act of theatre,” he states, calling for patience and continued engagement rather than anonymous threats and misinformation.

One of the most notable reforms highlighted by Ijeuwa is the proposed return to a gratuity scheme, which would grant retirees 100% of their final gross annual pay as a lump sum.

According to the Director General of PenCom, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, this “modest but impactful intervention” is already being implemented in accordance with Section 4(4)(a) of the Pension Reform Act 2014.

Further reflecting the government’s commitment, Ijeuwa notes that President Tinubu has approved N758 billion to clear decades-old pension arrears. Monthly disbursements under the CPS have also increased from N8.3 billion to N11.9 billion as of June 18, 2025, benefiting over 233,000 retirees.

He also points out that delays in paying accrued pension rights are being resolved, with disbursements made up to March 2025 and July payments expected soon. These improvements, he writes, enhance the retirement experience and offer value through market returns on Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs).

“Let us not permit sensationalism to derail a process already on course,” Ijeuwa concludes, warning against what he terms a “campaign of fear and misinformation.”

He calls on the public to support the reform agenda and resist efforts by anonymous sources to destabilize progress, stressing that the Nigerian Police Force “deserves better than the cynical manipulation of anonymous cowards and unverified claims.”

Second Lady of Liberia Advocates for Inclusion and Empowerment of Women and Girls with Disabilities at the 3rd Edition of Women’s Summit in Morocco

 

 

Rabat, Morocco June 19, 2025 – In a powerful address at the 3rd edition of the Women Summit on the theme, “A New World, New Stakes for Africa: Women Leading Innovation, Equity and Sustainability,” the Second Lady of Liberia, Madam Synleseh Stephenie Dahn Koung, underscored the urgent need for inclusive and implementable policies and empowerment of marginalized groups, particularly women and girls living with disabilities.

 

Speaking to esteemed officials and leaders from across Africa on Wednesday in Morocco’s city of Casablanca, the Second Lady emphasized that inclusion is not merely a policy choice but a moral imperative. “African women are the backbone of our societies, innovators, peacebuilders, and agents of change,” she stated. “Yet, among us there is a group often overlooked: women and girls living with disabilities.”

 

With over one billion people worldwide living with disabilities—60% of whom are women and girls—these demographics face heightened risks of abuse and economic exclusion. Through her work as Executive Director of the Group of 77, an organization dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities in Liberia, she shared transformative initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities.

 

 

 

 

 

Under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s leadership, the Liberian government has prioritized disability rights and inclusive policy dialogues. The Second Lady highlighted several key initiatives, including the reactivation of monthly food rations for over 2,000 vulnerable families, the renovation of the Group of 77 headquarters to enhance accessibility, and the launch of vocational training programs designed to empower women economically.

 

Perhaps most notably, the Second Lady announced a groundbreaking new facility in Kpekor Town, Liberia, which is set to provide housing, rehabilitation, and education for hundreds of individuals and their children, many of whom come from the most vulnerable slum communities.

 

“Through their voices and shared experiences, we developed national priority areas that focus on health, education, social protection, and empowerment & inclusion,” she noted, calling for urgent action to ensure these women gain access to necessary services and opportunities.

 

The upcoming launch of the ‘EMPOWER-HER’ initiative, which aims to equip over 200 women and girls with disabilities with vocational skills such as tailoring and soap making, reflects a commitment to actionable change. “When a woman earns, she contributes, and when she creates, she leads,” the Second Lady remarked.

 

Recognizing the remarkable impact of Liberia’s first female president, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, she called for a renewed focus on breaking down barriers that limit women’s voices in leadership. “When women rise, nations rise, and the world pays attention,” she affirmed.

 

 

In conclusion, the Second Lady urged attendees at the summit to commit to actionable measures that can pave the way for a stronger and more inclusive Africa. “Let this summit not be just a gathering but a launching pad for action where no woman is invisible, and every innovation includes the marginalized,” she declared.

 

As Liberia champions the empowerment of women and girls, particularly those with disabilities, this commitment reinforces a collective vision for a prosperous and equitable future for all Africans.

During the ceremony, the Liberian Second Lady was certificated for her inspiring contribution to sustainable development, inclusion, and empowerment, and received an UBUNTU AWARDS all under the honorary presidency of Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem.

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RMAFC Chairman Honoured as Visionary Leader by Civil Service Union

Maryam Aminu

The National Union of Civil Servants (NCSU) has honoured the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, with the prestigious award of “A Visionary Leader with Political Will”, in recognition of his transparent, inclusive, and responsive leadership.

The award ceremony, held at the RMAFC Headquarters in Abuja, brought together union executives from the National Council, Federal Council, and the Commission chapters.

Speakers praised Dr. Shehu’s open-door policy, commitment to industrial harmony, and efforts in fostering strong relations between management and staff.

Dr. Shehu, while receiving the award, expressed appreciation to the Union, reaffirming his belief in sincerity, fairness, and respect for the autonomy of workers. “Leadership must be rooted in dialogue and trust. I have no interest in influencing union elections; I’m committed to working collaboratively with whoever the staff elect,” he said.

Presentation of Award to the RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR by National and Resident members of the NCSU at RMAFC HQ, Abuja

Representing the NCSU National Chairman, Comrade Adoga Rufada, the Union’s Vice President, Comrade Ganiyat Adeogun, hailed the peaceful relationship between the Commission’s leadership and the staff union. “This harmony is a reflection of purposeful and people-centred leadership,” she stated.

Comrade Gbenga Olowoyo, the Union’s General Secretary, noted that the award was a collective expression of gratitude from both the National Federal Council and Regional Legislative Units. “With Dr. Shehu’s leadership, national recognition is inevitable,” he remarked.

Echoing similar sentiments, Comrade Mohammed Kolo, NCSU Federal Council Auditor, described Dr. Shehu’s tenure as one marked by “unmatched responsiveness” and genuine engagement with staff.

The RMAFC chapter chairman of the Union, Comrade Muhammed Rabiu Enagi, pledged continued collaboration, while former chapter chairman, Comrade Isa Usman Dagiri, led the union in a solidarity anthem, celebrating the Commission’s progress under Dr. Shehu’s stewardship.