Federal Government Commits to Eradicating Insecurity in the North-West, Says Matawalle

Maryam Aminu

….Minister of State for Defence Embarks on Comprehensive Security Assessment Tour

In a bold move to tackle the ongoing security challenges in Northern Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has assured the people of the North-West that the Federal Government will not rest until peace is fully restored.

Speaking during his extensive security assessment tour of Sokoto State, Dr. Matawalle emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the region’s insecurity and bringing lasting peace to the entire country.

The Minister’s tour, which began in Sokoto, forms part of a broader strategy by the Tinubu administration to restore security in areas plagued by banditry and insurgency.

While visiting Gundumi village, Dr. Matawalle assured residents that the long-closed Gundumi-Isa road would be reopened soon, with a military camp established along the route to protect civilians and boost economic activities.

“The President is fully committed to ending insecurity in Northern Nigeria, and we are here to ensure that no stone is left unturned,” Matawalle stated.

The Minister also toured Isa Local Government Area, urging locals to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.

In Turba village, he announced the deployment of additional military personnel to bolster security in the region.

The Minister’s tour further took him to Sabon Birni, where he met with troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base, commending their resilience and dedication while pledging to address their welfare and logistical needs swiftly.

During his visit to the Sabon Birni community, Dr. Matawalle appealed for increased support for the military, noting that local collaboration was crucial for the success of security operations.

He also revealed plans to establish a new military base between Sabon Birni and Tsamaye, a move aimed at enhancing regional security.

In addition to these stops, the Minister visited several villages deeply affected by banditry, including Hawan Duro and Mai Lalle. There, he reassured displaced residents of imminent security improvements, encouraging them to return to their homes as more military personnel are deployed to protect the area.

Addressing residents of Goronyo Local Government Area, Dr. Matawalle underscored the Federal Government’s determination to establish military camps along critical routes, while also acknowledging the support of the Sokoto State Government in combating insecurity.

Throughout the tour, Dr. Matawalle reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Northern Nigeria, urging all communities to collaborate with security agencies and pray for the success of troops defending the nation.

The Minister’s visit brings hope to many who have endured years of violence, with new military bases and additional troops promising a more secure future for the region.

The Minister was accompanied on the tour by the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, as well as senior government officials and military officers, in a show of unity and resolve to restore peace to the North-West.

With the Federal Government’s renewed efforts and strategic deployment of military resources, the region’s path to peace seems more attainable than ever.

Defence Minister Commends 146 Battalion for Safeguarding Critical National Infrastructure on Bonny Island

Maryam Aminu

In a show of support for Nigeria’s security forces, the Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, visited the 146 Battalion (Main) Bonny Island on Thursday, October 10, 2024, where he praised the unit’s critical role in securing vital national assets, particularly the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP).

This visit marked part of Badaru’s maiden tour of the Joint Task Force South-South Operation Delta Safe, aimed at boosting the morale of the officers stationed at the frontline of Nigeria’s war against economic sabotage.

Addressing the battalion, Badaru lauded their unwavering efforts in protecting the TNP from external threats and ensuring the country’s crude oil flows uninterrupted.

“The successes recorded in protecting the TNP demonstrate the excellent work you are doing,” the Defence Minister stated.

“The maximum protection of these critical pipelines under your watch is commendable, and I urge you to sustain this achievement.”

Underlining the significance of the battalion’s work, Badaru further applauded their continuous crackdown on illegal oil refineries and economic sabotage in the region, which has led to significant reductions in oil theft.

His visit came at a time when Nigeria’s oil infrastructure is under increasing threat from vandals and saboteurs.

Lieutenant Colonel O.A. Oyewumi, Officer Commanding 146 Battalion Main Bonny Island, briefed the Minister on the unit’s operations, emphasizing the strategic importance of their mission to protect the TNP and other key installations.

According to Oyewumi, the pipeline remains secure, transporting crude oil without third-party interference, thanks to their stringent security measures.

The battalion’s operations have also successfully intercepted several attempts at pipeline vandalism, further stabilizing the region.

As Nigeria continues its efforts to safeguard its oil and gas resources, the Defence Minister’s visit reaffirms the government’s commitment to equipping and supporting its military personnel on the ground.

The commendation of the 146 Battalion sends a strong message that their tireless efforts are not going unnoticed, with the nation relying on their expertise and vigilance to protect its most critical national assets.

PSC Chairman Advocates for Corporate Governance as Key to Accountability and Business Growth

Maryam Aminu

In a recent management meeting of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hashimu Argungu made a compelling case for the critical role of corporate governance in Nigeria’s public service.

He emphasized that adherence to corporate governance principles fosters accountability and drives business prosperity.

Speaking in Abuja, DIG Argungu delivered a paper titled “An Overview of Salient Features of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Corporate Governance Manual for Governing Boards/Councils of Federal Parastatal Agencies and Commissions.”

In his address, he underscored the importance of corporate governance as a pillar for both public and private sectors in driving economic and enterprise activities.

The PSC Chairman highlighted the transformative power of corporate governance in institutionalizing best practices in Nigerian organizations.

He stressed that it not only ensures the integrity of business operations but also promotes a healthy working environment for all stakeholders.

“Corporate governance is fundamentally about how power is exercised over corporate entities. It encompasses the activities of the board and its relationship with shareholders or members, as well as those managing public or private enterprises,” DIG Argungu explained.

“It also includes interactions with external auditors, regulators, and other legitimate stakeholders.”

He further elaborated that corporate governance is a “collection of control mechanisms” that promotes fairness, accountability, responsibility, and transparency within organizations.

“When these principles are upheld consistently and equitably, every stakeholder will have a sense of belonging, confident that their interests, whatever they may be, are protected,” he added.

DIG Argungu outlined the core benefits of corporate governance, listing transparency, accountability, integrity, fairness, and responsibility as key advantages.

He also emphasized the importance of consistency and equitability in fostering trust within organizations.

The PSC Chairman’s remarks signal a strong commitment to advancing corporate governance within Nigeria’s public institutions, setting a benchmark for ethical practices in both the public and private sectors.

Federal Government Partners with Plan International to Boost Gender Equality and Empower the Girl Child

Maryam Aminu

In a significant step towards advancing gender equality and safeguarding the rights of the girl child in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Plan International.

The partnership, announced at a formal signing ceremony in Abuja, marks a critical move towards promoting the well-being, empowerment, and protection of young Nigerians, particularly girls.

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who presided over the event, emphasized the shared vision between the ministry and Plan International.

“During our initial visit to Plan International’s office, it became clear that our goals for the development of Nigerian youth, particularly in terms of gender equality and protection of the girl child, were perfectly aligned,” Olawande stated.

He further highlighted the wide-ranging scope of the partnership, which will focus on youth empowerment, leadership development, education, health, and protection from violence and abuse.

“Our mission remains to empower Nigerian youth to become self-reliant, socially responsible, and active contributors to national development,” he said.

In a symbolic gesture to mark the upcoming International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, Olawande announced that the winner of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child Essay Competition would take his place as Minister for a day, reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to fostering leadership among girls.

The Minister explained that the MoU would specifically address critical areas such as education and skill development, sexual and reproductive health, and the prevention of gender-based violence.

“This collaboration signifies our dedication to creating leadership opportunities for girls and ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes,” he added.

Mr. Charles Usie, the Country Director of Plan International, praised the partnership as a pivotal moment.

He noted that Plan International, a global organization with over 85 years of history, operates in 75 countries, advocating for the rights of girls and gender equality.

“This MoU is not just a formality; it represents a deep commitment by both sides to drive tangible change. It opens the door to new resources and opportunities that will directly benefit Nigeria’s youth,” Usie stated.

As the government and Plan International move forward with this ambitious collaboration, expectations are high that the initiatives will transform the lives of young Nigerians, especially girls, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to thrive in a changing world.

Water FC Honors Patron’s 78th Birthday with a Grand Celebration

Emmanuel Daudu

In a heartwarming tribute, the management of Water FC celebrated the 78th birthday of their esteemed patron, Justice Suleiman Galadima, with profound appreciation for his unwavering support and dedication.

The celebration, which took place on Thursday, was marked by a public statement from the club’s chairman, Nureni Makanjuola (MK), expressing the club’s gratitude.

“We are deeply thankful for the grace of God upon the life of our patron, Justice Suleiman Galadima, as he reaches this significant milestone,” MK stated.

“He has been an indispensable pillar, offering his steadfast support in all aspects of the club.”

Highlighting the patron’s extraordinary commitment, MK emphasized how Justice Galadima’s love for the club transcends mere words: “His desire to see our players thrive is unmatched, and his support goes beyond encouragement he backs it with real, tangible actions.”

Justice Galadima’s visible loyalty to the club is equally profound.

“He is not only our patron but also our number one fan. He proudly wears our jerseys, showing his unwavering support in public and celebrating whenever our players earn national team call-ups, always offering prayers for their success.”

The celebration was a moment of reflection on the remarkable contributions Justice Galadima has made to Water FC over the years. His guidance and consistent support have played a critical role in the club’s achievements, and his passion for the team’s success has made him a beloved figure among the players and management alike.

Nigerian Armed Forces Step Up Military Operations Nationwide, Achieve Major Gains

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have intensified their strategic operations across the country, aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, insurgents, and criminal cohorts.

In a press briefing held today at the Defence Head Quarters, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, provided an update on ongoing military efforts designed to neutralize threats and ensure national security.

Major Buba expressed that the military has taken a more aggressive stance, mobilizing lethal ground forces and launching coordinated air strikes against terrorist strongholds.

He disclosed that Troops have been deployed across key theatres of operations, with a focus on maintaining momentum to destroy the combat capabilities of terrorist groups and insurgents.

He noted that the Armed Forces eliminated Mai Hijabi, a notorious terrorist commander in Jigawa State, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against terror.

Troops are making steady progress, with operations disrupting the leadership and logistics of these groups.

In the past week alone, 165 terrorists were neutralized, while 238 suspects were arrested.

In addition to combating terrorism, the Nigerian military continues its crackdown on oil theft in the South-South region. Troops seized N688 million worth of stolen crude oil and recovered an array of weapons and ammunition. Among the recovered items are 81 AK-47 rifles, 153 assorted weapons, 1,561 rounds of special ammunition, and various stolen assets, including motorcycles and vehicles. Significant quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined diesel were also recovered.

Major Buba mentioned that troops dismantled 65 illegal refining sites, 39 storage tanks, and other infrastructure used for illicit activities.

He stated that in the Niger Delta, they discovered and destroyed dugout pits, speedboats, and other equipment used by oil thieves.

While the Armed Forces remain focused on defeating these threats, they are also reassessing operations in areas where citizens face security challenges. Troops are refining strategies to protect civilians and ensure peace across the nation.

The military issued a warning against inflammatory comments or threats regarding troop deployments, urging all Nigerians to support ongoing operations.

The Nigerian Armed Forces remain committed to the safety of citizens and the preservation of peace, utilizing new strategies to ensure the nation’s security.

This report underscores the ongoing successes of military operations, signaling progress in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and criminal activities.

Matawalle’s Renewed Offensive in Sokoto-A Final Push to End Banditry

Emmanuel Daudu

In a significant move aimed at restoring peace in the Northwest, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, has returned to Sokoto for the second time in two months.

Mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this visit signals the government’s intensified efforts to dismantle the growing banditry and kidnapping crisis plaguing the region.

Dr. Matawalle, addressing the people of Sokoto, reinforced the federal government’s commitment to combating insecurity in all forms.

“We will never leave you alone,” the Minister declared, affirming that the government’s resolve to eradicate criminality remains steadfast. His return coincides with the escalation of “Operation Fansan Yamma,” a military campaign designed to root out bandits terrorizing the Northwest.

“Our gallant troops are making significant headway, and I remain optimistic about their continued successes in the field,” said Matawalle.

The operation has been a critical tool in curbing the spread of violence, yet the Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration across all levels of leadership.

He called on political leaders and local stakeholders to unite behind President Tinubu’s administration, warning that national security requires unified effort.

In a stern message to the criminals and their sponsors, the Minister vowed that the government would remain resolute.

“We will not allow them to breathe or move freely,” he warned, underscoring that the fight against banditry would continue without mercy, despite any attempts to undermine or sabotage government efforts.

Matawalle’s return to Sokoto is widely seen as a decisive step in ramping up the offensive against the terror networks destabilizing the region.

His visit underscores the government’s determination to bring an end to the violence that has devastated communities and displaced thousands of people.

Traditional Rulers Are Pillars of Stability and Development, Says RMAFC Chairman

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Bello Shehu, has lauded traditional rulers for their crucial role as custodians of culture and agents of stability and development in Nigeria.

He made these remarks during a courtesy visit by traditional rulers from Nasarawa State, led by His Royal Highness Abdullahi Amegwa, the Osana of Keana, on Monday, October 7, 2024, in Abuja.

Speaking at the meeting, Shehu emphasized the significance of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance, especially before the colonial era.

“Prior to the colonial era, the system of government that existed in Nigeria was controlled by traditional rulers. The remarkable role they played, not only as custodians of culture and traditions but also as development agents in the various societies that now make up Nigeria, cannot be overemphasized,” Shehu stated.

He also highlighted the need to acknowledge the pivotal role traditional rulers continue to play in modern Nigeria, urging for their inclusion in the country’s governance framework.

He expressed hope that the ongoing constitutional reforms would recognize this role and ensure adequate funding to enable traditional rulers to continue holding society together as they have done for generations.

Reflecting on past reforms, Shehu noted, “We did not get things right with the Local Government reforms of 1976, nor with the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), but I hope and pray that the present attempt at reforming the Constitution will place a bigger role on traditional rulers and ensure sustainable funding.”

During the visit, Dr. Samson Gamu Yare, the Chun mada , speaking on behalf of the delegation, raised concerns over the 5% allocation to traditional councils from local government funds.

He appealed for the commission’s intervention to ensure that these funds are deducted at the source and disbursed directly to traditional councils to promote accountability and compliance.

“Even with the improvement in statutory allocations, the 5% allocated to traditional councils has continued to decline, which is a serious concern for us,” Yare remarked.

He added that past experiences with the deduction formula have been unsatisfactory and called for a more effective system.

Yare also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening the local government system, referencing the Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to local governments, as provided for in the Constitution.

He further congratulated the RMAFC Chairman and members for their appointment and service to the country.

In response, members and directors of the commission underscored the need for a clear policy on the deduction and allocation of the 5% entitlement to traditional councils.

The traditional rulers were advised to submit a formal letter to the Presidential Committee on Local Government Autonomy, with a copy to the RMAFC for further action.

Other members of the Nasarawa State delegation included His Royal Highness Mahmoud Umar Bwalla, the Sangarin Shabu, and His Royal Highness Pham. Luka Panya Baba, the Esu Karu.

Minister of Youth Development Unveils Key Reforms to Revitalize NYSC, Ensure Future Impact

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to modernize and sustain the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, has announced the submission of a comprehensive reform report aimed at enhancing the scheme’s adaptability and relevance in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.

Speaking during the presentation of the NYSC Reform Committee’s draft report on October 8, 2024, in Abuja, Dr. Ibrahim emphasized that the changes would not only strengthen the scheme but also ensure its impact is felt for many years to come.

The reforms are designed to make the NYSC self-sufficient and profitable, with a core focus on improving the quality of training for corps members and enabling the scheme to compete globally with other youth organizations.

Dr. Ibrahim praised the dedication of the committee, chaired by Mr. Oyekunle Oyekanmi, which has worked for months to appraise the current state of the NYSC and propose actionable solutions.

Dr. Ibrahim noted the NYSC’s historical role in fostering national unity and youth empowerment but stressed the need for it to evolve in response to modern societal needs.

“Like any reputable institution, the NYSC must adapt and evolve to effectively tackle the constantly changing challenges and opportunities in society,” she said.

The 31-page report presented by the reform committee outlines strategies to ensure the NYSC’s sustainability.

From left: Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. -Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed; Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio-Ibrahim; Chairman of the NYSC Reforms Committee, Kabir Oyekunle; and the Deputy Chairman, NYSC Reforms Committee, Mrs Bintu Garba, during the submission of the NYSC Reforms Committee report to the Minister in Abuja on Tuesday (8/10/24).

Key recommendations include enhancing skills development for corps members, improving partnerships with private sector organizations, and creating avenues for self-sufficiency.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olasanya, represented by Director Prince Momoh Olugbenga, assured stakeholders that it would take swift action to implement the recommendations.

“The task ahead of us is now to take these recommendations and turn them into actionable reforms,” Olugbenga stated.

As the Ministry prepares to move forward with the reform agenda, the NYSC is set to enter a new era of growth and innovation, promising to offer young Nigerians greater opportunities for professional development while contributing to national progress.

Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio-Ibrahim (8th L); Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. -Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed(7th L); Chairman of the NYSC Reforms Committee, Kabir Oyekunle(7th R); Deputy Chairman, NYSC Reforms Committee, Mrs Bintu Garba(5th R); and others, during the submission of the NYSC Reforms Committee report to the Minister in Abuja on Tuesday (8/10/24).

FG Launches Portal for Youth to Access 2,000 CNG Tricycles, Boosts Transportation and Economic Growth

Maryam Aminu

In a strategic move to address Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure and create economic opportunities for youth, the Federal Government has launched a new portal that will enable young Nigerians to access 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tricycles.

The portal, which is part of the Presidential CNG Initiative (PI-CNG), aims to connect youth in the transportation sector with opportunities to own or lease these tricycles, a key element of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s palliative programme.

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, unveiled the portal on October 7, 2024, in Abuja, during an event organized in collaboration with the National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners & Riders Association (NATOMORAS).

The initiative marks a significant step towards improving transportation infrastructure in Nigeria, while also providing employment opportunities for young people.

Speaking at the event, Comrade Olawande emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that young Nigerians, regardless of their social or financial background, have equal access to all government programmes. “This portal is dedicated to fostering transparency in the enrollment of youth into the Presidential CNG Initiative,” the Minister explained, adding that youth from all regions of Nigeria can now register and be linked with aggregators or tricycle owners participating in the programme.

“This aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of equal opportunities for all, without the need for influential connections. The launch of the Youth Portal reaffirms our dedication to making sure every young Nigerian has access to the benefits of the Ministry’s programmes,” Olawande added.

The launch of the CNG tricycle portal is a major milestone in the government’s efforts to modernize Nigeria’s transportation sector, reduce emissions through cleaner energy, and foster economic growth. Young people working in commercial transportation, as well as those interested in joining the sector, are being encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity by visiting the two available portals: http://www.youthcng.ng and http://www.pci.gov.ng/tricycle.

The Honourable Minister of State,  Comrade Ayodele Olawande during the launching of the Portal for the Youth to access 2,000 CNG Tricycles.

Mr. Tosin Coker, a representative of the Presidential CNG Initiative, expressed his optimism about the collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development and NATOMORAS.

“This initiative creates tremendous opportunities for young Nigerians. They can partner with aggregators, gain employment, and eventually own these tricycles,” he said, praising the Ministry for its leadership and the aggregators for their support.

Alhaji Sani Hassan, Chairman of NATOMORAS, called the portal launch a historic moment for the association, which represents tricycle and motorcycle operators across the country.

“We are deeply grateful for this opportunity, which will open doors for our members. NATOMORAS is fully committed to mobilizing and educating our members to ensure they fully benefit from this programme,” he assured.

With this initiative, the Federal Government has made clear its intention to empower youth through job creation, while simultaneously addressing the nation’s transportation challenges.

As the portal goes live, thousands of young Nigerians now stand to benefit from new opportunities, bringing a much-needed boost to both the transportation sector and the national economy.