Report Claims Guaranty Trust Bank Involved In Financial Foul Play, Unsolicited Accounts Opening, Forex Manipulations, Others

It was also revealed in the PIR report that the Guaranty Trust bank had been punished severely for different violations at the international level.

An investigation report by a civic organisation has been released bordering on allegations of “unscrupulous, unethical and criminal activities” levelled against the Guaranty Trust Bank Limited, a subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (also known as GTCO PIC).

The report was released by the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) and signed by its President, Edwin Omaga on Friday.

The Guaranty Trust Bank is led by Segun Julius Agbaje who is presently the Group Chief Executive Officer since August 2021.

A statement signed noted that the Private Investigation Report (PIR) is compiled pursuant to Section 24 (d) and (e) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) read together with our Objective No.2.

The statement noted that it was pertinent on the group to help ensure that corrupt practices are abolished in the country.

It was noted in the report that the Guaranty Trust Bank Limited was incorporated on 19 July, 1990 and licensed to engage in commercial banking and other allied services within Nigeria and elsewhere.

The report further stated that the Bank has Ordinary Shares of 25 Billion with 8 Active Directors but its only Shareholder and Person With Significant Control is Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, represented by Segun Julius Agbaje.

“In the United Kingdom, Segun Julius Agbaje started the Bank by registering same at the Companies House as Rainsouth Limited with Number 5969821 on 8 December, 2006. The said Rainsouth Limited went through various changes until it became Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited on 17 March, 2008.”

The group further noted that as of the time of its report, there are over 10,000 customers exposed to grave danger without their knowledge, as accounts were allegedly opened in the Guaranty Trust Bank in their name without their consent.

“One of the corrupt practices recently linked to Guaranty Trust Bank Limited in Nigeria has to do with Unsolicited Accounts Opening. This is a situation where a customer did not approach the Bank or show any interest in maintaining an account with the Bank. Yet, the Bank goes ahead to source for the customer’s information such as telephone number, date of birth, Bank Verification Number (BVN) and other vital details to open account for the customer without his/her consent.”

“The aim of this practice is to increase the customer base of the Bank, thereby giving it high ranking in terms of size, capacity and profitability. We submit that Unsolicited Accounts Opening tantamount to breach of data privacy, identity theft and can expose the innocent account holders to lots of financial crimes. As at today, there are over 10,000 customers in the database of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited who are already exposed to grave danger without their knowledge.”

It was further noted in the report that some of the affected customers threatened to sue the Bank.

The Guaranty Trust Bank asides from this were alleged in the PIR of hurriedly putting together misleading financial statements and declaring false profits to mislead the public on its financial positions.

“We have equally uncovered that Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has been declaring profits that do not reflect its actual financial performance. For instance, GTCO PIc on 11″ September, 2024 released its Audited Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements for the period ended 30 June, 2024, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and London Stock Exchange (LSE) wherein the whooping sum of #1.004 Trillion was declared as Profit Before Tax. This caused the Group to be reported all over media as “the first Nigerian financial institution to cross the N1trillion mark in profit.”

“It is our finding that these figures as contained in the Audited Statements are mere conjectures hurriedly put together by Segun Julius Agbaje and his team to deceive the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), customers/investors and the general public into believing that all is well with GTB.”

It was further stated that the bank could not justify its stated profit of N1trillion which it released to the public, with a suspicion that the profit could have been declared through roundtripping.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, there is no gainsaying the fact that Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has become notorious over the years for engaging in deceptive accounting practices to artificially inflate profit figures. For instance, no substantial pieces of evidence presented by Segun Julius Agbaje to support the assertion that GTCO PIc made over #1 Trillion in profit as at 30 June, 2024. Even at that, it is very possible that the figures were generated through roundtripping.”

“This is a process where funds are moved in and out of the Bank through different accounts or entities to create an illusion of legitimate transactions. The combination of this process and other unethical business practices within the Bank points towards the direction of systemic corruption, fraud and money laundering, which are opened for further investigation by the relevant agencies.”

“It is feared that such ugly situation if not properly checked could have the tendency of not only undermining customers/investors’ confidence in the Bank but pose significant risks to the stability of Nigerian financial sector.”

It was also revealed in the PIR report that the Guaranty Trust bank had been punished severely for different violations at the international level.

“Surprisingly, Segun Julius Agbaje did not tell Nigerians that the corporate image of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has been terribly battered in many foreign countries where it is carrying on business. He lied by stating in the recent Audited Statements that GTCO PIc ensures compliance with disclosure requirements under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The truth is that Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited was sanctioned by the same FCA to pay a financial penalty of £525,000 for breaches of Principle 3 (Management and Control) of the Authority’s Principles for Businesses between 19 May, 2008 and 19 July 2010.”

“In another development, the FCA imposed on Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited a financial penalty of £10,959,700 pursuant to Section 206 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. As usual, the Bank agreed to resolve this matter at an early stage and was given a 30% discount which reduced the fine to £7,671,800. The FCA in justifying this financial penalty, which was paid with customers/investors’ funds not later than 24″ January, 2023, stated that Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited again failed to put in place policies and procedures to prevent and detect money laundering. FCA considered this repeated misconduct to be a direct result of the inability of the Senior Management within the Bank, over a prolonged period of time, to formulate and implement an effective plan capable of addressing the weaknesses identified in its AML and financial crime systems and controls.”

The statement further revealed that the Guaranty Trust Bank had been suspended in Ghana for various breaches of foreign exchange operations.

“our investigation took us to the Bank of Ghana where we discovered that the Foreign Exchange Trading Licence of Guaranty Trust Bank Ghana Limited (GTB) was suspended for a period of 1 (One) month with effect from 18 March 2024.”

“ The Press Release dated 4 March 2024 indicates that the said Licence was suspended as a result of various breaches of the Foreign Exchange Market Regulations, including fraudulent documentation in foreign exchange operations. By the Press Release, the Bank of Ghana cautioned GTB to put in place effective controls to ensure strict adherence to the extant Regulations and Guidelines.”

The statement wondered why the Guaranty Trust Bank allegedly carried out many infractions in Nigeria without any due sanctions to it.

“One begins to wonder the number of infractions committed by GTB in its originating country – Nigeria without due sanctions from Regulatory Bodies and Anti-Corruption Agencies. We are certain that it is not too late for the Regulatory Bodies and Anti-Corruption Agencies to act by rescuing the soul of GTB. The time to act is now!” the statement read.

The report also recommended that the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should forthwith dissolve the Board and Management of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited so as to allow thorough investigations.

They also called for the suspension of Segun Julius Agbaje as Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc and retrieve from him all files or documents relating to Guaranty Trust Bank Limited to avoid interference with further inquiry into the issues raised in the PIR.

It was also stated that if found guilty of Corporate Governance, CBN acting jointly with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services (DSS) “should deal decisively with Segun Julius Agbaje and prosecute him like Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, who practically milked the defunct Oceanic Bank Plc dry before the Banks Consolidation era in Nigeria.”

Other recommendations made include that the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as well as Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) “should urgently step into the affairs of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited with a view to safeguarding customers/investors’ funds and portfolios before the Bank fails completely”

It was also stated that the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, “House Committee on Banking as well as House Committee on Banking Regulations should jointly or individually convene a Public Hearing whereat Segun Julius Agbaje will be summoned to appear and defend the weighty allegations contained in our Private Investigation Report (PIR).”

The group also called on the UK National Crimes Agency (NCA), Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Financial Ombudsman Service, British Prime Minister, Governor Bank of England, US Department of Justice, US Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), US Federal Reserve Board (FRB), British High Commissioner to Nigeria and Governor Bank of Ghana to shut down all operations of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) in their territories.

“By so doing, GTB will be prevented from turning the United Kingdom, United States of America and Ghana into a safe haven for money laundering, terrorism financing and other sundry economic crimes.” the statement released noted.

“That in addition to the above, UK National Crimes Agency (NCA), Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), US Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are requested to commence prosecution of Segun Julius Agbaje in line with appropriate laws for all the infractions he has used GTB to commit within the territories of both United Kingdom and USA.”it further read

It was also recommended that all the properties allegedly acquired by Segun Julius Agbaje using proceeds of crime in Nigeria, United Kingdom, USA and other parts of the world be confiscated and forfeited permanently to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Culled from Sahara Reporters

Kano Commissioner Applauds Governor Yusuf’s Golden Award at 2024 World Teachers’ Day

Maryam Aminu

Kano State Commissioner for Works, Engineer Marwan Ahmad, has commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for receiving the prestigious Golden Award from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Abuja.

In an interview with Abba Hamisu of Time Base Television, Engineer Ahmad described the award as a well-deserved recognition of Governor Yusuf’s unwavering dedication to transforming Kano’s educational infrastructure.

According to the commissioner, primary schools across the state had been in a state of disrepair for years, but Governor Yusuf’s administration has successfully renovated hundreds of these schools, equipping them with modern desks and instructional materials.

Engineer Ahmad further emphasized that the governor’s efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

He noted that Governor Yusuf’s work is not limited to primary education but also extends to secondary and post-secondary institutions across Kano State, reflecting a holistic approach to improving educational access and quality.

“Governor Yusuf is committed to ensuring that every school in the state benefits from this comprehensive overhaul, supporting the global vision for quality education,” Ahmad stated.

He hailed the Golden Award as a significant endorsement of the governor’s achievements, particularly his focus on creating an enhanced learning environment that contributes to the broader goal of SDG 4.

NSCC and Gerocare Solutions Launch Medical Outreach in Nasarawa

Adejoh Bilkisu

In honour of National Day of Older Persons, the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) teamed up with Gerocare Solutions and held a special medical outreach in Keffi, Nasarawa State on Saturday, October 5, 2024.

This initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being of senior citizens, offered free healthcare services to elderly individuals aged 60 and above.

The outreach, which drew a large number of elderly participants, featured various health services such as medical check-ups, consultations, and the provision of essential medications.

A beneficiary testing his walking aid

NSCC also distributed assistive devices, including walkers, to enhance the mobility and independence of older persons facing physical challenges.

Speaking at the event, the Director General of the National Senior Citizens Centre, Dr. Emem Omokaro, highlighted the importance of providing senior citizens with access to quality healthcare and social support.

Dr Omokaro reaffirmed the government’s dedication to uplifting the elderly, with a focus on promoting healthy ageing and ensuring their inclusion in national programs.

“Our collaboration with Gerocare Solutions exemplifies our commitment to ensuring that older persons receive the healthcare they deserve. This outreach goes beyond just marking National Senior Citizens Day, it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of our elderly population,” Dr. Omokaro stated.

NSCC Boss emphasized that NSCC is committed to integrating older persons into national development programs and working with state governments to provide care and support.

She also highlighted the NSCC’s partnership with universities specializing in geriatric care, which will enhance the availability of healthcare services for senior citizens.

Dr Omokaro also called on stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors, to prioritize the needs of older persons, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in their healthcare, social security, and overall well-being.

Also speaking, Dr. Ajibola Mareiyebu, Co-founder of Gerocare Solutions, expressed his organization’s dedication to providing continuous, preventive healthcare for the elderly.

Dr. Mareiyebu reiterated Gerocare’s commitment to filling a critical gap in elderly healthcare, particularly as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) no longer covers individuals over 65.

He highlighted Gerocare’s homecare services, which provide medical care in the comfort of seniors’ homes, ensuring they age with dignity.

He stressed the need for regular medical check-ups to catch health issues early, improving the quality of life for senior citizens.

“At Gerocare Solutions, our mission is to ensure that every elderly person, no matter where they are, can access quality healthcare.
Today’s outreach in partnership with NSCC shows our commitment to achieving this goal. Preventive care is key to helping our senior citizens live healthier and more dignified lives,” Dr. Mareiyebu said.

Gerocare’s team of healthcare professionals provided services such as blood pressure monitoring, diabetes screening, and general health assessments.

Dr. Mareiyebu thanked the NSCC for the collaboration and urged other partners to join in creating a robust healthcare system for Nigeria’s elderly.

The beneficiaries echoed their gratitude, noting that access to healthcare has been a challenge for them.

“The outreach allowed us to receive crucial medical attention and support.” They said

The outreach marked a significant step toward addressing the healthcare needs of Nigeria’s elderly population, with the NSCC pledging continued collaboration to improve the lives of senior citizens across the nation.

Team of healthcare professionals attending to older persons
DG, NSCC delivering her remarks

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu The Africa Head of Climate Change Council marks today as holiday for World Teacher’s Days

His Excellency, UNESCO Laureate, Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu has joined others in celebration of today as a World Teacher’s Day Monday October 7, 2024 as a public holiday for teachers in the world — a gesture in honour of the World Teachers’ Day (WTD).

According to a statement by the Deputy Secretary General to UNESCO Laureate, Head of Africa of Unity of Nations Actions for Climate Change Council an official Partner of United Nations and Others Worldwide.

UNESCO Laureate Africa Chairman Board of Trustees marks today as holiday for World Teacher’s Days.

*His Excellency, UNESCO Laureate has tasked the public and Teachers in the Public and Private Sector as a mark of appreciation for what they do.

The Africa Chairman Board of Trustees UNACCC) again commends the teachers for what they do to advance human progress through quality teaching and nurturing of minds.

American Global Knighthood Awards (Sir): UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu and others Endorses Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu with Global Golden Award

According to UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu and others global leaders of the Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace in the USA has stated below: Our endorsement of Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu for this Global Golden American Knighthood Awards is apt.

This world’s great prestigious awards on most eminent people in the world is as a result of his course in pursuit of peace and justice locally and internationally through his International Health Care and Service to Humanity”.

“Sir Prof. Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu Is Open For Mentorship of African Youths, Urges African Leaders To Prioritize Youth’ Talent Development.

Prof Dr. Jerryson Ameworgbe Gidisu, The President of the Kings & Queens Medical University College, Ghana, Founder and CEO of Kings and Queens Teaching Hospital, Ghana’s First Private Teaching Hospital, Professor of Cardiothoracic and Neurosurgery, has dedicated his Global Golden Award to God, Orphans in Ghana, Africa, Worldwide as he noted that, inspiring Ghanaian, African Youth to greatness is one of his burning desire, that he would live with it and leave a legacy on earth as role model to young people as he is open for mentorship, while he dedicates his today’s Global Golden Award to God almighty.

The Ghanaian-Chinese trained Medical Doctor who also is product of Crown University Intl, Chartered Inc in USA which is teaching and research hospital campuses are located in the Santa Cruz Province in Argentina South America, Spain and Brazil with official partners constituent campuses at government regulated universities world and online operation where he earned his Post Graduate Degrees and also serves as Professor as well he is the Founder and CEO of Kings and Queens Teaching Hospital, Ghana’s First Private Teaching Hospital, Prof Dr. Gidisu stated that, the power of Youth is the common wealth of the entire world. He noted further that Ghanaian, African Youth are a force to be reckoned with as he enjoined them not to allow setback define them, rather learn from them and grow.

The Ghanaian, African, global Youth model noted that he would continue to inspire the Youths in Ghana, Africa and the rest of the world to greatness. In his words: “The Medical Educationist , Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Neurosurgeon and International Healthcare Management Expert who Attain the Professorial Rank at Age 39 says he Dedicated his Global Golden Award of The Chartered World Order of the Knights of Justice of Peace USA and associates worldwide to Orphans in Ghana and Worldwide. As one of those fell into this category at tender age, I give thanks to God Almighty for making me an icon and Role Model of African Youth Today”.

“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the World Grand Chancellor of Chartered World Order of the Knighrs of Justice of Peace and World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore is The VC, CUICI, USA, a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom”.

“He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria (Proposed) to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India.

“He is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.

Nigerian Armed Forces Continue Aggressive Campaign Against Terrorists and Criminals Across Multiple Fronts

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have sustained their relentless efforts to neutralize insurgents, dismantle criminal networks, and curb illegal activities in several parts of the country, as detailed in the latest operational report from military authorities.

Covering operations from September 24 to October 4, 2024, the report reveals significant breakthroughs in the fight against Boko Haram (BH), Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and other violent extremist groups.

The Director Defense Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba exposed that in the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai made substantial gains against the insurgency, with a total of 77 BH/ISWAP terrorists and their families surrendering across Kukawa and Konduga Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Borno State between September 25 and October 1. These include 7 adult male fighters, 29 women, and 41 children, all of whom turned themselves over to Nigerian forces.

Major Buba expressed that 18 terrorists were neutralized in several confrontations, while troops rescued 42 kidnapped victims, including 24 children. A significant arsenal, comprising 14 AK-47 rifles, 349 rounds of ammunition, and a variety of other weapons, was seized.

In a coordinated air interdiction on September 29, military aircraft struck terrorist positions in the Sambisa Forest, leading to the destruction of key logistics hubs and the elimination of several insurgents. Troops also arrested a Nigerian police officer caught with illegal ammunition, highlighting ongoing efforts to root out collaboration between extremists and corrupt elements within the security forces.

In Plateau and Kaduna States, troops under Operation Safe Haven launched a series of offensive and anti-kidnapping operations, resulting in the arrest of 20 extremists and the neutralization of 3 others.

A high-profile operation in Jos South on September 25 led to the capture of a notorious drug dealer, alongside the recovery of large quantities of cannabis and ₦232,000 in cash.

In the same period, 14 hostages were rescued from kidnappers, and troops seized an auto pistol, a truck full of stolen rail tracks, and two motorcycles from the criminals.

He disclosed that roops under Operation Whirl Stroke achieved significant victories in Taraba and Benue States, including the arrest of a high-profile terrorist leader, Tukura Abdul-Kareem, and 9 of his associates.

The operation, which took place in Ardo Kola LGA on September 29, also led to the capture of 2 AK-47 rifles and 363 rounds of ammunition. Additional raids in Nasarawa State uncovered 303 rounds of illegal ammunition and large quantities of illicit drugs.

Also in the North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji made impressive headway, neutralizing 36 terrorists and arresting 3 in a series of high-stakes firefights. The joint operations spanned across Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, where troops dismantled several bandit camps and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages.

The military also intercepted large quantities of arms, including 14 AK-47 rifles and 567 rounds of ammunition.

Operation Whirl Punch reported successful air strikes on terrorist enclaves in Kaduna State, neutralizing dozens of fighters and destroying their infrastructure. Ground forces, meanwhile, carried out arrest operations in Kogi State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), leading to the apprehension of 18 suspects and the recovery of significant weaponry.

Major Buba expressed further that in the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe ramped up efforts against oil theft, destroying over 44 illegal refining sites and recovering 602,200 liters of stolen crude oil.

Several gunrunners and kidnappers were arrested in Delta and Bayelsa States, with troops confiscating a Beretta pistol, multiple rifles, and 51 cartridges.

The Director Defense Media emphasized that these ongoing operations demonstrate the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to restore security across the nation, as they continue to degrade terrorist networks, dismantle criminal operations, and rescue hostages from the clutches of extremists.

Ministry of Defence Inaugurates Key Teams to Implement Performance Management and Enterprise Content Systems

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to enhance service delivery and streamline operations, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has inaugurated two core teams tasked with driving the implementation of its Performance Management System (PMS) and Enterprise Content Management (ECM) frameworks.

This initiative, unveiled by the Permanent Secretary of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, at a ceremony held at the Ship House, Abuja, underscores the ministry’s commitment to achieving the highest standards of efficiency and productivity.

During the inauguration, Dr. Kana expressed confidence in the ministry’s capacity to successfully implement both systems.

“The Ministry of Defence has the infrastructure and human resources to make these systems work effectively,” he said, highlighting the expertise of directors and deputy directors from various departments.

He emphasized that these experts would play a pivotal role in cascading the processes down to all staff levels, ensuring that the entire ministry is aligned with the renewed hope agenda of the government.

Dr. Kana charged the newly inaugurated Project Steering Committee and Project Implementation Technical Team to lead with resilience and dedication, especially as the ministry navigates the initial stages of the systems’ rollout.

“We understand there might be initial hiccups, but the key is to remain committed to overcoming these challenges,” he noted.

He also reiterated the ministry’s commitment to continuous training, stating that, “In MOD, training is not going to be an issue. We can afford to organize training on PMS and ECM every week.”

The Permanent Secretary called on the PMS Champions to demonstrate excellence in driving service delivery and meeting the targets set out for the ministry.

He pointed out that the implementation of these systems is critical to ensuring compliance with government performance standards, ultimately fostering accountability and boosting overall productivity within the ministry.

The newly formed teams are expected to play a leading role in ensuring that these reforms translate into tangible results, positioning the Ministry of Defence as a model for efficiency in government operations.

The inauguration marks a pivotal step in the MOD’s ongoing efforts to align with global best practices in organizational management and content administration.

Badaru Urges Army War College Graduates To Prioritise National Security in Line With Tinubu’S Renewed Hope Agenda

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H. E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on graduates of the Army War College Course 8/2024 to remain steadfast in safeguarding Nigeria’s national security, aligning their efforts with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Army War College Nigeria in Abuja, the Minister lauded the graduates for completing 35 weeks of intensive training, focusing on national security, military strategy, and operational art.

The event celebrated the participants’ achievements in a rigorous academic and practical setting.

Delivering his keynote address as the Special Guest of Honour, Badaru praised the graduates for their commitment and perseverance.

He emphasized that the knowledge and skills they have acquired in leadership and strategic thinking would be instrumental in their future roles.

“It is a great honour to stand before you today at the graduation ceremony for Army War College Course 8/2024. Your journey through 35 weeks of rigorous training, intellectual growth, and personal sacrifice is a testament to your resilience and commitment to excellence,” Badaru said.

The Minister underscored the critical responsibilities awaiting the graduates as operational and strategic leaders within Nigeria’s Armed Forces.

He noted that the graduation marked a significant shift from tactical-level leadership to a more strategic and operational mindset. “Leadership extends beyond giving orders; it’s about inspiring and guiding others toward a common goal. As graduates of the Army War College, you now possess the tools to lead and navigate the complexities of the global geostrategic landscape,” he added.

Encouraging the graduates to lead with integrity, courage, and compassion, Badaru highlighted the evolving nature of global challenges. “The world is constantly changing, and the threats we face are growing more complex. As operational planners, you will face uncertain and perilous situations. I urge you to meet these challenges with confidence and determination,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian military and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Chief of Army Staff, the Governing Board of the College, faculty members, and the families of the graduates.

Badaru congratulated the graduates, assuring them that their future in Nigeria’s military leadership is bright. “I have no doubt you will serve our nation with distinction,” he concluded.

FG Partners with NAICOM to Create One Million Jobs for Youth in Insurance Sector

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has announced a strategic partnership with the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) aimed at addressing the country’s youth unemployment crisis by creating one million job opportunities in the insurance sector.

This initiative was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Youth Development and NAICOM in Abuja.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that the partnership is designed to equip one million young Nigerians with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the insurance industry.

This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to engage the youth in emerging sectors of the economy, including data management, digital literacy, and the creative industries.

“The future of Nigeria rests on the shoulders of its youth, who make up more than 60% of our population,” said Olawande. “Yet, despite the vital role insurance plays in the economy, it remains underutilized among this critical group. Through this partnership, we aim to change that by opening new career paths for young Nigerians in insurance.”

The Minister highlighted that the training program will be hosted on the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a digital platform launched by President Bola Tinubu earlier this year.

NiYA will offer insurance courses designed to provide youth with the necessary qualifications to connect with industry players, including insurance companies and brokers, across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

Left- right :The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande and the Chief Executive, NAICOM, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, displaying the signed MoU document in Abuja.

NAICOM’s Commissioner and Chief Executive, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, also expressed optimism about the partnership.

He noted that the insurance sector is primed for growth and holds significant employment opportunities for Nigerian youth.

“We have a sector ready for expansion and eager to tap into the dynamism and energy of our youth,” said Omosehin. “Through this collaboration, we will provide essential training that will not only prepare young people for jobs in insurance but also position them to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.”

He added that NAICOM is partnering with the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria to deliver the training, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to meet the industry’s evolving demands.

With over one million jobs expected to be created as a result of this initiative, the partnership is seen as a key step in reducing youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Comrade Olawande reiterated that the current administration is committed to exploring all sectors of the economy to provide meaningful employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

“We are determined to use every available resource, including digital technology, to connect our youth with sustainable careers,” Olawande said.

“This initiative will be a game-changer for our young people, and we will continue to build on it to ensure Nigeria’s youth are empowered and equipped for the future.”

The Federal Government has assured that it will monitor the progress of the program closely to ensure its success and sustainability.

NSCC and CAARS Join Forces to Promote Healthy Ageing and the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria

Adejoh Bilkisu

The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), continues it week long celebration of national day of older persons with today marking the fourth day, held a national symposium.

NSCC in collaboration with the Centre for African American Research Studies (CAARS), initiated the symposium to address key issues surrounding healthy ageing, social protection, and the rights of older persons, with a focus on mainstreaming this demographic into Nigeria’s social safety nets.

The symposium, which is designed to travel from state to state, highlights the importance of ensuring that older persons receive adequate protection and care as they age.

The Director-General of NSCC, Dr. Emem Omokaro, underscored the significance of the partnership with CAARS, noting that research plays a central role in the NSCC’s operations.

“The NSCC was born out of research, and our programs are rooted in data and statistics that drive policy decisions. Research informs the solutions we create and ensures that we are effectively addressing the needs of older citizens,” said Dr. Omokaro.

She emphasized the role of research in combating the negative stereotypes and discrimination often faced by older persons. “The prejudices and misperceptions about older people largely come from a lack of accurate information. Research not only helps us to understand these issues but also equips us with the tools to change the narrative around ageing,” she explained.

Dr. Omokaro highlighted how NSCC’s partnership with the National Directorate of Employment has been instrumental in conducting needs assessments for older persons across various communities.

“Through our research, we’ve discovered that older persons remain essential to the fabric of many communities. They are the backbone of support systems, and it’s crucial that we address their needs effectively.”

She further disclosed that NSCC is actively working to establish senior citizen centers in different regions, but stressed that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work. “Each community has its own unique cultural needs, and research allows us to tailor our programs accordingly,” she added.

With the national symposium and other activities rolling out across the country, the NSCC and CAARS hope to spark a nationwide conversation on the importance of protecting the rights of older persons. The event is expected to influence policy reforms that will better integrate the ageing population into Nigeria’s social protection framework.

Also speaking, the President of the African University of Science and Technology, Prof. Azikiwe Onwualu, represented by Dr. Bosco Okolo-Obi, Assistant Director of the Centre for Pan African and Peace Studies, emphasized the vital role of research in promoting healthy ageing.

He noted the challenges older persons face, especially after retirement, and called for greater inclusivity.

“Healthy ageing is the overall goal of this program. In today’s society, older persons are often excluded from many opportunities, such as retirement after 35 years of service. What happens when you retire?” he remarked, highlighting the vast knowledge and experience older individuals possess, which could be invaluable to younger generations.

He stressed that, despite this, older persons are frequently isolated from social interactions and meaningful opportunities.

Dr. Okolo-Obi further explained that the university is committed to building capacity through knowledge transfer and mentorship.

He added that the institution is exploring collaborations with the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) to ensure that retirees can serve as resource persons, contributing to training, mentorship, and the transfer of knowledge even after leaving the formal workforce.