Defence Minister Matawalle Calls for Law and Order in Osun State Amid Rising Tensions

Emmanuel Daudu

Amid growing unrest in Osun State, the Federal Government has issued a strong call for peace and stability.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed deep concern over the recent disturbances in local government councils, urging security agencies to take decisive action in maintaining law and order.

Matawalle emphasized that the judiciary’s recent ruling on the matter reflects its independence and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law nationwide.

He condemned the violence that led to the loss of lives, stressing that such incidents must not be allowed to continue.

“As Minister of State for Defence, my duty includes the protection of lives and property. This administration remains dedicated to ensuring that democratic principles are upheld at all levels of governance,” Matawalle stated.

The minister urged all political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations to respect the rule of law and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve disputes. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in fostering a stable and secure environment essential for the development of Osun State.

He also called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the federal government is committed to their safety and has elevated security measures to prevent further violence.

Matawalle reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to protect democratic rights, ensuring that peace, justice, and the rule of law prevail. He reiterated that the government will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and harmony across the country.

Security Operatives Storm Lagos State House of Assembly, Raising Concerns Over Democratic Integrity

Maryam Aminu

CLEEN Foundation has condemned the recent invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police, describing it as a direct attack on democratic principles and institutional independence.

According to reports, security personnel stormed the legislative complex in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025, sealing off the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House. Armed operatives were also stationed around the Assembly premises, raising concerns about undue interference in the state’s legislative affairs.

The incident comes amid ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, a development that has intensified political tensions in the state.

CLEEN Foundation warns that the forceful occupation of the Assembly premises sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the rule of law, separation of powers, and the independence of democratic institutions.

CLEEN Foundation has urged security agencies to maintain professionalism and avoid being used as political tools to undermine democracy. The organization is demanding the following immediate actions:

Transparency and Accountability: Security agencies must provide a clear legal basis for their actions and ensure that their operations do not obstruct democratic processes.

Respect for the Rule of Law: All parties must allow due legal procedures to take their course without intimidation or coercion.

Legislative Independence: The Lagos State House of Assembly must be allowed to function without interference from security agencies or external political influences.

CLEEN Foundation calls on the Federal Government, the Lagos State Government, and the Judiciary to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent the abuse of security forces for political gain. The organization emphasizes that democracy thrives when institutions operate freely, without intimidation or coercion.

NiMet Partners with CARE Nigeria to Improve Climate Information Access

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has announced a strategic partnership with CARE Nigeria, a branch of CARE USA, aimed at expanding the reach of critical weather and climate data to end users, particularly farmers and vulnerable communities.

Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with CARE Nigeria’s Country Director, Dr. Hussaini Abdu, the Director General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, emphasized the importance of timely weather information in disaster preparedness. He noted that partnerships with state governments and humanitarian organizations like CARE Nigeria are essential in ensuring that climate data reaches those who need it most.

“As climate change continues to drive humanitarian crises and displace communities, integrating weather information into development strategies is crucial,” Prof. Anosike stated.

He stressed that climate-informed decision-making is vital in addressing poverty, forced displacement, and human trafficking, which are often exacerbated by extreme weather events.

In response, Dr. Abdu highlighted CARE Nigeria’s commitment to crisis response and development programs, particularly in the Northeast, where climate change has intensified humanitarian challenges. “NiMet plays a critical role in supporting smallholder farmers and promoting climate-smart agriculture. This partnership will help elevate climate-related discussions and advocate for more sustainable public policies,” he said.

Both organizations have agreed to formalize their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marking a significant step toward strengthening climate resilience in Nigeria.

Gen Musa vindicated, foreign forces behind Boko Haram exposed, What’s Next

By Victor Akaa.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has had his claims confirmed that Boko Haram extremists are being sponsored by foreign countries.

In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, General Musa expressed concerns about the persistence of Boko Haram’s activities over the past 16 years, despite Nigerian military efforts to defeat them. He cited evidence that many captured Boko Haram terrorists were found with funds linked to powerful foreign nations, suggesting international complicity in supporting the group.
During the interview, General Musa put forward a challenging question, saying “how have they (terrorists) been able to sustain themselves for 15 years?

General Musa’s assertion was recently corroborated by a US congressman, Scott Perry who dropped a bombshell, alleging that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funneling a staggering $697 million annually to terrorists organisations including the notorious Boko Haram. This shocking revelation was made during a hearing on government efficiency, where Perry questioned the misuse of taxpayer funds to support terrorist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaida. He also claimed that USAID’s funding of programmes in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan has been ineffective, with millions of dollars unaccounted for, and instead, being used to fund terrorism. He affirmed that, over $136 million was allocated to USAID to build 120 schools in Pakistan, yet there’s zero evidence that these schools exist.

This vindicates General Musa’s earlier statement and raises questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. The recent surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members, many of whom were found with money from powerful foreign countries, has sparked a heated debate about the conflict. As General Musa aptly put it, “Where are they getting this money? Who is training them? Who is supplying them with weapons?” These questions seem to be rhetorical but are needed to be answered. The discovery of foreign money among surrendered Boko Haram members is a disturbing indication of the level of external support the group has received.

It is clear that Boko Haram’s ability to wage war against the Nigerian state has been facilitated by foreign powers. The question of who is training and supplying Boko Haram with weapons is critical, and it is likely that the group has received support from foreign military personnel. Skelly Moss from James Madison University notes that the international community’s role in perpetuating the conflict cannot be overstated, and it’s crucial to examine the complex web of interests and alliances that have contributed to Boko Haram’s rise. The implications of foreign involvement in Boko Haram’s activities are far-reaching, suggesting that the conflict is not just a local insurgency, but a complex web of international intrigue and geopolitics.

The Nigerian government and military must now confront the reality that they are facing a domestic enemy backed by powerful foreign forces. Under General Musa’s leadership, the Nigerian military has made significant gains against Boko Haram, recapturing territories and neutralizing insurgents. As General Musa continues to lead the charge against extremism, it is clear that he has earned the respect of many. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian military’s response to the conflict, and his commitment to defeating the extremists is unwavering.

The surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram members and the discovery of foreign money among them is a significant development, raising important questions about the true nature of Boko Haram’s rise to power and the extent of foreign involvement. As General Musa said, “We need to get to the bottom of it,” and it is essential that the Nigerian Government and the International community work together to uncover the web of deceit behind Boko Haram’s activities.

Victor Akaa writes from Abuja.

NiMet Partners with Gates Foundation to Boost Climate Resilience Through Specialized Training

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to strengthen climate resilience and enhance weather forecasting capabilities, selected staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) will undergo specialized training sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The training is part of the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project (2024-2026), implemented by Sahel Consulting, and aims to equip NiMet personnel with advanced skills in climate data analysis and application.

A statement from NiMet’s media office highlighted that staff members have previously benefited from similar training under the ongoing partnership.

The upcoming training will be conducted by the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), a key technical partner in the project and a part of the Columbia Climate School at Columbia University.

The program is structured into two phases:
Training of Trainers (ToT) session – February 18 to 21 and Expanded training session – February 24 to 28, where NiMet staff will train participants from various ministries and agencies under the guidance of an IRI expert.

Receiving Dr. Tufa Dinku, a Research Scientist from IRI, who visited to brief him on the training, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Prof. Charles Anosike, expressed appreciation to the Gates Foundation and its partners for their support.

“Access to high-quality climate data is essential for developing effective, decision-relevant, and sustainable climate services. This training will enhance our capacity and empower beneficiaries to leverage climate information for improved decision-making,” Prof. Anosike stated.

The initiative is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s agricultural resilience, improve climate adaptation strategies, and enhance the country’s meteorological services.

FG Unveils Four-Year Roadmap for Open Government Partnership to Boost Socio-Economic Growth

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive four-year roadmap for the Open Government Partnership (OGP), aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement to drive socio-economic development in Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced the initiative during the valedictory session of the National Action Plan III (NAP III) and the inauguration of the committee tasked with developing the fourth National Action Plan (NAP IV) in Abuja.

According to the Minister, the new roadmap will build on the successes of NAP III while addressing past challenges. He urged the steering committee members to review the roadmap critically and provide constructive feedback to ensure an improved framework for NAP IV.

“Please draw extensively from your experience with NAP III as you contribute to the draft. Our goal is to create a new action plan that avoids previous challenges,” Olawande stated.

He emphasized the importance of nationwide adoption of OGP principles, noting that 26 out of Nigeria’s 37 states, along with three local councils, have already embraced the initiative.

He also highlighted progress in beneficial ownership reforms and commended the President for promoting transparency in governance, citing the removal of the corruption-ridden petrol subsidy as a key achievement.

Dr. Gloria Ahmed, National Coordinator of the OGP and Director of Special Duties at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, explained that the National Steering Committee (NSC) has transitioned from a two-year to a four-year action plan cycle. This shift, she noted, allows for a mid-term review to reassess priorities in response to government policy changes or emerging challenges.

“The roadmap will officially commence in March with a stakeholder retreat, where participants will assess past performance and review the previous National Action Plan,” Dr. Ahmed stated.

The unveiling of the four-year roadmap marks a significant step toward strengthening governance and fostering inclusive development in Nigeria.

Cross section of the meeting.

BBA Traders Alert Governor Sanwo-Olu on Impostors Parading as Leaders

Maryam Aminu

Leaders of the Balogun Business Association (BBA) have raised concerns over individuals they describe as impostors falsely representing themselves as executives of the association.

In a petition addressed to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the traders warned that these individuals recently paid a courtesy visit to the governor despite having no legitimate claim to leadership.

The petition, signed by Chief Anthony Obih (Chairman, Board of Trustees), Chief Jones Okpala (Secretary, Board of Trustees), Hon. Anselm Dunu (Chairman, Caretaker Committee), and Chief Leonard Ogbonnia (Secretary, Caretaker Committee), was also copied to the Attorney General of Lagos State.

The traders accused Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his group of acting in “brazen and egregious defiance” of ongoing judicial proceedings. They cited multiple court cases, including Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/451/2021 and Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2665/2023, which they claim validate the authority of the Caretaker Committee led by Hon. Anselm Dunu as the lawful management body of the association.

According to the petitioners, the Federal High Court had issued orders preventing government interference in the association’s affairs, particularly regarding its management and administration. Despite this, they allege that Chief Odogwu misrepresented himself to gain access to Governor Sanwo-Olu under false pretenses.

The Balogun Business Association, established in 1992 and operating under a lease from the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, is a major commercial hub for traders across Nigeria and West Africa.

The traders urged the Lagos State Government to disregard Odogwu and his group, stating:
“We respectfully urge Your Excellency to treat Chief Paul Oscar Ikechukwu Odogwu and his associates as deceivers, tricksters, and impostors.

They should not be granted any recognition as representatives of the Balogun Business Association nor be given any further audience.”

The crisis at BBA has been ongoing, with tensions escalating over allegations that certain individuals are unlawfully extorting traders under the guise of utility bill payments, despite the issue being subject to court proceedings.

The petitioners emphasized that legal resolution is the only path forward, warning against intimidation and harassment of traders.

The Lagos State Government is yet to respond to the petition.

Matawalle Dismisses Lawal’s Comments, Reaffirms Northern Support for President Tinubu

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has strongly refuted recent statements by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential bid for re-election in 2027.

Matawalle asserted that President Tinubu enjoys significant support in Northern Nigeria and has made notable strides in governance.

Speaking on Sunday, Matawalle emphasized that Tinubu’s administration has implemented impactful reforms across all regions, including the North. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions. The people of the North will rally behind him to build upon these achievements,” he said.

Matawalle highlighted key security improvements, noting that in 2024 alone, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 illegal weapons. Additionally, approximately 8,000 kidnap victims were successfully rescued. The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has further strengthened anti-kidnapping efforts.

He dismissed claims of waning Northern support for Tinubu, stating, “Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine national security.”

The Minister also outlined Tinubu’s economic policies aimed at transforming the North, including the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development to harness the region’s agricultural potential.

He noted that this initiative is empowering millions, particularly women and youth, and has contributed to stabilizing food prices.

Infrastructure development has also been a priority, with the administration focusing on road construction and transportation network improvements to drive economic growth in the North.

Matawalle underscored the importance of President Tinubu’s signing of the Local Government Autonomy law, which empowers local administrations, enhances accountability, and improves grassroots governance.

Urging critics like Lawal to evaluate Tinubu’s performance objectively, Matawalle stated, “The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made. The North remains steadfast in its support for the President.”

Concluding his statement, he reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing, “Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria.”

FG, Kaduna State to Collaborate on Skill Acquisition, Reintegration for Freed Minors

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has announced a partnership with the Kaduna State Government to provide skill acquisition and reintegration programs for minors recently pardoned under the EndBadGovernance initiative.

The Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, disclosed this during a follow-up visit to Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State.

The visit aimed to assess the current status of the freed minors and discuss strategies for their rehabilitation.

Professor Yilwatda emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the children not only regain their freedom but also have access to vocational training and starter packs to help them build a sustainable future.

“We are not just handing them their freedom; we are giving them a chance to build their future where their potentials are fully realized,” the Minister stated, assuring that none of the beneficiaries would leave the program with regrets.

He commended Governor Sani for his leadership in ensuring the children are reunited with their families while also receiving education, counseling, and vocational skills.

He also lauded the Kaduna State Government’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of security, education, inclusivity, and empowerment.

Additionally, the Minister expressed gratitude to UNICEF and development partners for their support in providing psychosocial care, vocational training, and education for the minors.

During the meeting, Governor Uba Sani acknowledged the progress made since Professor Yilwatda assumed office, particularly in addressing humanitarian challenges.

He revealed that the minors received by Kaduna State in 2024 had undergone psychosocial therapy under the supervision of Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, a medical doctor.

Governor Sani further stated that the children are being supported in schools and businesses, with skill acquisition programs facilitated at three major centers in the state.

He affirmed Kaduna State’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry to provide skills for the youth and expand financial inclusion for vulnerable persons in rural areas.

He disclosed that the state has already opened accounts for 2.2 million vulnerable individuals and aims to reach 3.5 million under the social register initiative.

It will be recalled that the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, officially handed over the freed minors and youths to their respective state governments in December 2024 in Abuja.

The meeting, held at Sir Kashim House, Kaduna, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Abdulkadir Muazu Mayere, Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding Dr. Yetunde Adeniyi, directors from the Ministry, aides to the Minister, and members of the Kaduna State Executive Council.

6,000 Nigerians to receive training as Fire Extinguisher servicing vendors (FESV)-NGO says

A groundbreaking initiative is underway, offering a lifetime opportunity to approximately 6,000 Nigerians. They will receive training in Fire Extinguisher servicing vendors (FESV) a vital skillset that will not only enhance their employability but also contribute to the country’s safety and well-being.

This pioneering program is a testament to the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has made strategic appointments, including Dr. Olubumi Tunji-Ojo as the Honorable Minister of Interior. This appointment has yielded significant results, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to driving positive change.

The project, which is designed to achieve multiple objectives, including controlling fake importers and illegal manufacturers, promoting enlightenment on the use of fire extinguishers, and enhancing national security, is expected to generate employment opportunities in servicing, distribution, and pre-enforcement data gathering.

In addition to creating employment opportunities, the project also aims to block economic loopholes and boost government internally generated revenue (IGR). This will be achieved by controlling fake fire extinguisher servicing vendors and tracking failed fire extinguishers at the point of usage.

A minimum of 6000 Nigerian youths are to be trained as Fire Extinguisher servicing vendors (FESV) Who will be deployed to strategic locations to service fire extinguishers booked by FRSC/FFS enforcement team and those from normal law abiding and safety conscious citizen. They will also be integrated to serve as sales agents for the manufacturer and importer of fire extinguishers under the NFEC aggregator program .

Aside from creating employment for Nigerians, the Federal Fire Service and Federal Road safety fire extinguisher enforcement collaboration will prevent lives and properties to petroleum tankers crash by enabling the right size and category of extinguisher to be used by articulated vehicles. This process will ensure that tanker caries type of fire extinguisher that can be used to dilute petrol to prevent the public from scooping to avert the usual explosion and loss of lives .

Our visit to the Ministry of Interior joint service Department and N-Alert technical office confirmed the claim of Benue state Executive Governor of creating over 2000 jobs for youths as Pre- enforcement Data Collector (PDC) aka adhoc staff (NFEC prove of concept ) In 2024.These individuals performed both advocacy and data collection . Presently there are about over 70,000 buildings ready for joint enforcement by Federal Fire Service, State fire service , SON, NSCDC . If replicated in all states and FCT the Ministry of Interior NFEC program will crate over 100,000 jobs . And Generate over 500 million for each state of the federation annually from tax, Levi, penalty etc.

The government’s plan to create employment opportunities for youths through this project is a welcome development, given the country’s high youth unemployment rate. According to recent statistics, over 50% of Nigerian youths are unemployed, with many more underemployed.

With the government’s commitment to creating employment opportunities for youths, Nigerian young people can look forward to a brighter future.

A very reliable source from the office of the Controller – General federal fire service and the project manager Messer 2TOC solutions Ltd said the plans are on top gear to commence public announcement for the training of interested youths across the country as FESV who will do that at their own cost . However, project managers are urged to reach out to organizations and spirited individuals to subside the cost of training for indigent youths, who may be qualified but not having the means.

From the media space we shall consult Fintechs to utilize NFEC window to empower these youth. We shall update the public on the training registration portal when it’s finally opened .