Africa Security Investigation News

By Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) has issued a strong condemnation of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, United Kingdom (CIPS-UK), and the World Bank over the recent launch of the National Procurement Certification Project (NPCP), describing it as a direct violation of Nigerian laws.

The NPCP was officially launched on April 30 by the BPP in collaboration with CIPS-UK and with support from the World Bank. However, CIPSMN claims the initiative undermines its statutory role and contravenes several provisions of the CIPSMN Act No. 21 of 2007, particularly Sections 11, 16, and 20, which vest authority for training, certification, and regulation of procurement professionals solely in the Institute.

According to a statement signed by Prof. M. J. Aliyu, Registrar and CEO of CIPSMN, “The BPP has overstepped its mandate by engaging in training and certification of procurement professionals, a function not assigned to it under the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007. This is not only a violation of the law but also a serious affront to professional standards and regulatory sovereignty.”

CIPSMN emphasized that the BPP’s partnership with foreign institutions such as CIPS-UK, under the guise of procurement reform, bypasses Nigerian regulatory frameworks and threatens to erode the authority of indigenous professional bodies. It also criticized what it described as a “pattern of illegality,” pointing to the BPP’s historical disregard for CIPSMN’s statutory mandate and its continued operation without oversight from the National Council on Public Procurement (NCPP), as required by the PPA 2007.

“The BPP has transformed from a regulatory agency to a self-appointed certification body, using foreign organizations to impose external systems on Nigeria. This is akin to professional colonization,” the statement read.

The Institute expressed particular concern over the use of the World Bank’s influence in promoting what it described as an unlawful certification regime, allegedly designed to legitimize foreign qualifications over Nigerian regulatory authority.

CIPSMN likened the current situation to a scenario where other regulatory bodies such as the Medical and Dental Council, COREN, or ICAN are bypassed by external institutions an act it says would not be tolerated in any sovereign jurisdiction.

While acknowledging the BPP’s mandate to enhance public procurement standards and build capacity, the Institute insisted that professional certification must remain within the remit of CIPSMN as established by law.

It warned that it would pursue all legal and institutional avenues to challenge the NPCP initiative and protect its regulatory authority.

“This illegal encroachment on our statutory responsibilities will not stand,” said Prof. Aliyu. “We will defend the integrity of procurement practice in Nigeria against any form of external or internal subversion.”

CIPSMN called for immediate government intervention to halt the NPCP and ensure that all procurement-related capacity-building efforts are aligned with existing legal and professional frameworks.

President Tinubu Pays Surprise Visit to Frontline Troops in Katsina

Emmanuel Daudu

In a rare and symbolic show of solidarity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, made an unannounced visit to frontline troops engaged in Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina State.

The visit, which was conducted without the usual high-ranking military entourage, allowed the President to directly assess the security situation and engage with soldiers on the ground. It marks a significant moment in the administration’s ongoing efforts to address insecurity in Nigeria’s northern region.

The statement was issued by Patience Ituke on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, underscoring the importance of the visit and reaffirming the government’s support for the armed forces.

Speaking to the troops, President Tinubu praised their courage and emphasized the national importance of their mission. “The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria,” he said. “Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always.”

He described the soldiers as “the shield of Nigeria” and commended their sacrifice, noting that their resilience and dedication were inspiring the nation. “Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralize, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children,” the President stated.

In a passionate address, Tinubu assured the troops of his government’s unwavering support, promising enhanced welfare, better equipment, improved logistics, and sustained investment in military infrastructure. “We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced technology, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support… Your welfare is my top priority,” he declared.

The President also reiterated plans for improved housing, insurance coverage, and family support programs for military personnel.

“To those who seek to destabilize our nation, be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents, hear this: Nigeria will not bow. Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery… With your valor and discipline, peace shall prevail.” said Tinubu

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, describing them as transformative measures that are setting Nigeria on a path to progress.

He expressed confidence that the administration’s achievements could pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

In a statement issued by Patience Ituke, spokesperson for the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle highlighted key milestones in the areas of security, economic development, and infrastructure.

He cited the neutralization of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the arrest of 11,600 suspected criminals, and the recovery of more than 10,000 weapons in 2024 as evidence of the administration’s effective security strategy.

He also credited the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) with enhancing coordination in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime.

On the economic front, Matawalle lauded the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a bold move aimed at unlocking the agricultural potential of northern Nigeria.

He noted that the initiative is already yielding results, including a recent drop in grain prices, which he attributed to improved agricultural output and distribution.

Matawalle also drew attention to the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly the expansion of road networks and transport infrastructure in northern regions, which he said are vital for economic connectivity and growth.

Addressing issues of governance, the Minister voiced support for the newly enacted local government autonomy law. According to him, empowering local governments with greater administrative and financial independence will foster accountability and enhance service delivery at the grassroots.

While emphasizing that his remarks reflect personal confidence in the administration’s trajectory, Matawalle’s endorsement suggests growing optimism among key government officials about President Tinubu’s political future.

In a dazzling convergence of royalty, culture, and global unity, the Prime Minister of the State of Birland, Her Majesty Queen Eden, illuminated two historic events in Bali, Indonesia, on April 26-27, 2025. As the revered Queen of Ohanaeze Kingdom Worldwide, Embo Kingdom D’Afrique & Diaspora, Sacro Trono de los Amerindios y Afrodesciendentes (SATROAMAD), Ovuorie Kingdom in Nigeria, Naladuta of Kutai Mulawarman Kingdom in Indonesia, and the Birland Monarchy, she embodied humanitarian leadership and regal grace. Joined by the Honorable Minister of Birland Tourism, His Excellency Prince Mingma Dorjee Sherpa from Nepal, and the world-famous Indian astrologer Dr. Atlanta Kaashhyap, Queen Eden’s presence sparked a social media frenzy, with posts on X hailing the events as a “royal festival” of Southeast Asian and global dignitaries.

April 26, 2025: A Royal Honor at the ARMA Museum & Resort

The first event unfolded at the breathtaking ARMA Museum & Resort in Ubud, Bali, during the Foundation Awarding and Thanksgiving Ceremony hosted by HRM Ida Anak Agung Ngurah Ungrasena Singaraja of the Kerajaan Buleleng Bali Royal Kingdom and the Pandji Singaraja Foundation. The evening was a vibrant mosaic of culture, with royal dignitaries from China and Thailand mingling amid spellbinding performances by cultural dancers and artists from Indonesia’s myriad islands.

In a moment that left the audience in awe , HRM Ida Anak Agung presented Queen Eden with the prestigious Inspiring Woman Award 2025 (Hari Pahlawan Nasional RA Kartini), a

trophy and certificate bestowed by Puri Agung Singaraja, Buleleng, Bali, through the Pandji Singaraja Foundation.The award celebrated Queen Eden as an international figure whose ideals and actions inspire current and future generations, setting a proud example for all. Whispering that the honor was a carefully planned surprise, HRM Ida Anak Agung Ngurah Ungrasena Singaraja amplified the moment’s emotional weight. “It’s a huge honor bestowed upon me in the midst of such esteemed royal families,” Queen Eden declared, her voice resonating with humility and gratitude,amplifying the significance of the award in the heart of Bali’s cultural epicenter. The surprise award, set against the lush backdrop of Ubud, became a trending topic on X, with users celebrating the “royal festival” and Queen Eden’s global influence as a beacon of inspiration.

April 27, 2025: A Global Cultural Exchange in South Kuta

The following day, the Gedung MICE Widyatula Politek Pariwisata in South Kuta hosted a Cultural Exchange event celebrating the bonds between Nepal, Indonesia, and beyond, organized by Gentra Lestari Budaya (GLB) and Forum Masyarakat Indonesia Emas (FORMAS). The event honored Prince Mingma Dorjee Sherpa for his exceptional hospitality during the Nepal-Indonesia Cultural Exchange in Kathmandu in February 2025, where Queen Eden was also a distinguished guest. X posts buzzed with excitement, noting the presence of “kings, queens, princes, and princesses” alongside Birland’s leaders, amplifying the event’s grandeur.

The gathering glittered with luminaries: Dr. Atlanta Kaashhyap, whose astrological prowess has captivated millions; Mr. Yohanes Handojo Budhisedjati, FORMAS Founder & Chairman; the Deputy Governor of Bali; Ambassador M. Wahid Supriyadi, a former diplomat in Russia and the UAE, Agus Santoso of Injourney Aviation services; and Ratu Ratha Dewit Kartika, Chairman of GLB. Sponsors like “Cheers” healthy drinking water, represented by Mr. Haryanto Stiawan Wiyoto, and Mrs. Acharreeya Julasavee, proprietor of My Dream Bali Resort & Spa, added to the event’s prestige.

Cultural performances, heartfelt speeches, and a shared vision of unity electrified the atmosphere. Prince Sherpa’s role as a cultural bridge between nations was lauded, while Queen Eden’s commanding presence inspired awe, cementing her status as a global icon of humanitarian leadership and diplomacy elevated the occasion, her poise and dedication inspiring all in attendance, thus deserving of the award bestowed upon her by Anak Agung Foundation Awarding.

A Legacy That Echoes Worldwide

These twin events in Bali were more than ceremonies—they were a global celebration of culture, royalty, and shared dreams. From the surprise honor in Ubud to the vibrant exchange in South Kuta, Queen Eden and Prince Sherpa wove a narrative of hope and collaboration that resonated far beyond Bali’s shores. X users captured the magic, describing the gatherings as a “royal festival” that united Southeast Asia’s finest. As the world turns its gaze to Birland State and its visionary leaders, these moments will endure as a beacon of what humanity can achieve when bound by purpose and passion.

Published by Lukman Nurudeen, celebrating the unforgettable convergence of royalty, culture, and humanitarian vision in Bali, April 2025.