In a bold move to address rising fuel costs and empower youth in the transportation sector, the Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development announced today that the government will launch the first phase of a project to distribute 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tricycles by October 1st, 2024.
This initiative aims to support informal youth workers, particularly tricycle riders, by significantly reducing their operational costs.
Speaking at a press conference, the Minister highlighted that these CNG-powered tricycles will help riders reduce their fuel expenses to just 20 percent of what they currently spend on petrol (PMS), leading to increased profits for the youth and a reduction in transportation costs for passengers.
He said the project is part of the federal government’s broader strategy under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” to create sustainable opportunities for Nigerian youth.
The Minister also called on Nigerian youth to take full advantage of this program and other existing government initiatives, urging them to avoid being used for destructive activities.
He emphasized that the future of Nigeria depends on the active and constructive participation of its youth.
“President Bola Tinubu is willing to give the youth a key to the future they deserve,” the Minister said, adding that the youth must unite in pursuit of the country’s potential for greatness.
The Minister said the CNG tricycle distribution, set to begin in the coming days, is expected to not only benefit youth economically but also contribute to a more affordable and sustainable public transportation system.
The Honourable Minister of Defence of Nigeria, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has renewed Nigeria’s dedication to nuclear disarmament.
Badaru made the commitment during his address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
The Minister underscored the nation’s commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, urging Nuclear-Weapon States to honor their obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Badaru highlighted the growing global threats posed by nuclear weapons, calling them “an existential danger to international peace and humanity.”
He emphasized that the resources and political capital invested in maintaining nuclear arsenals would be better allocated to solving the world’s pressing socio-economic issues, especially in developing nations like Nigeria.
“Amid the global challenges of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, nuclear weapons cannot be justified,” said the Defence Minister.
He further stressed that a nuclear-weapon-free world is not only achievable but necessary for humanity’s survival.
The Nigerian Defence Minister commended nations that have ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), calling for more countries to follow suit.
He also praised the efforts of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its role in ensuring that nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to a safer and more peaceful world, Badaru stated “While the path to disarmament is challenging, we must remain focused and resolute. Nigeria will continue to play its part in ensuring a safer world for future generations.”
As a prominent member of the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Group, Nigeria remains a steadfast advocate for nuclear disarmament, contributing to international discussions aimed at ensuring global security.
This declaration comes at a time when geopolitical tensions continue to rise globally, heightening concerns about the use of nuclear weapons.
Nigeria’s stand adds to the growing call for Nuclear-Weapon States to demonstrate greater accountability and commitment to disarmament.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is turning heads at the 19th Abuja International Trade Fair with an impressive display of indigenously developed technological products, underscoring Nigeria’s growing technological capability and industrial self-reliance.
The fair, hosted at the Abuja Trade and Convention Centre, has attracted global attention with NASENI showcasing innovations that are critical to national development.
The Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by the Director of Information, New Media and Protocol, Mr. Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, emphasized the agency’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s industrialization through its 3C’s principle: Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialization.
Speaking at the NASENI Day event, he reiterated the agency’s dedication to advancing Nigeria’s technological frontier, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This year’s participation is another opportunity to exhibit NASENI’s indigenously developed products and technologies aimed at transforming Nigeria’s economy,” Halilu said.
“Our display at the fair enhances awareness of NASENI’s work and boosts engagement with stakeholders and end-users.”
On display are products from NASENI’s 12 Development Institutes, including NASENI Solar Energy Ltd. (NSEL).
Among the standout innovations are the NASENI Transformer, NASENI Solar CCTV, Automatic Change Over Switch, Digital Roadsign, and the cutting-edge CNG Conversion Centre in Utako, Abuja.
Other exhibits include science kits, a rotary furnace, and an animal feed machine, designed to address key industrial challenges and foster Nigeria’s economic growth.
Halilu highlighted that NASENI’s mandate to carry out research, reverse engineering, and manufacturing is pivotal in building home-grown capacities for sustainable industrialization.
Under his leadership, the agency has been transformed, with a stronger focus on technology transfer and the domestication of new technologies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“This event is more than just an exhibition; it’s a platform to showcase Nigeria’s technological prowess to the world and secure valuable partnerships that can further boost the nation’s economic potential,” Halilu noted.
L-R: Deputy Director, Technology Business Development, Edward Abaver, NASENI; representative of the EVC/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Director of Information, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan; and Deputy Director of Information, NASENI, Chima Akwaja at the NASENI Day held on Wednesday 25th September, 2024 at the ongoing Abuja International Trade Fair.
With over 500 exhibitors and 100,000 visitors, this year’s fair, themed “Mobility: Options for Transportation, Trade Finance, and Transportation,” serves as a unique opportunity for NASENI to expand its reach and foster collaboration with global stakeholders.
As NASENI continues to innovate, it solidifies its position as a vital driver of Nigeria’s industrial future, marking another milestone in the country’s journey towards technological self-sufficiency.
The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has officially suspended all preparations for Hajj 2025 until further notice.
This directive, signed by the association’s president, AbdulLateef Yusuff Ekundayo, comes as a result of ongoing tensions between AHUON and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over unresolved financial disputes.
In a statement released to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, AHUON leadership called on its members to halt any submissions related to Hajj 2025, particularly forms and payments, until a counter directive is issued.
The association has been engaged in a prolonged dispute with NAHCON concerning accumulated refunds from previous Hajj operations, an issue that is yet to be resolved despite several appeals.
AHUON expressed frustration with NAHCON’s delay tactics, as the commission responded to the association’s repeated requests only recently, on September 24, 2024.
NAHCON’s justification for the delay was to synchronize the Hajj processing timeline with the Saudi Arabian Hajj calendar. However, AHUON members view this as an unacceptable excuse that does not address the pressing issue of the unpaid refunds.
The association’s National Executive Council (NEC), in consultation with its Board of Trustees (BOT), unanimously agreed that suspending the preparations for Hajj 2025 is necessary to ensure that their demands are met.
AHUON has vowed to explore all legal means to recover the refunds owed to its members and ensure that their rights are protected.
This suspension marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute and poses potential challenges for Hajj operators and pilgrims across Nigeria.
AHUON called on its members to remain patient and united during this difficult period, expressing hope that the matter will be resolved soon.
In an unprecedented demonstration of military might and strategic prowess, the Nigerian Armed Forces have neutralized over 1,937 terrorists in a series of operations conducted between July and September 2024.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations made this known while addressing the media at a press conference today in Abuja.
Maj. Gen. Buba outlined the successes of ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns aimed at crippling terrorist networks across the country.
He revealed that synchronized air and ground offensives were instrumental in weakening the operational capacity of terrorist factions, dealing a significant blow to their leadership structures.
The military offensive, described as relentless, resulted in the elimination of over 65 high-ranking terrorist leaders and commanders.
Among the notable figures neutralized were Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), and Ameer Modu, along with infamous combatants such as Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict. These leaders had long been on the radar for spearheading insurgent activities in various regions.
“The destruction of terrorist leadership is central to our ongoing operations. Our forces are focused on dismantling these networks, and the list of those neutralized underscores our commitment to eradicating this threat,” Maj. Gen. Buba said
He disclosed that Nigerian troops also rescued 1,854 kidnapped hostages from captivity during the third quarter of the year.
The military reported the arrest of 2,782 suspected terrorists and criminal elements.
Additionally, troops recovered a staggering 1,304 weapons and over 43,000 rounds of ammunition.
Among the recovered armaments were 688 AK-47 rifles and 32,945 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
These actions have significantly weakened the terrorists’ ability to regroup and launch new attacks.
The military operations extended beyond the battlefield, as troops disrupted illegal oil activities, preventing the theft of over N13 billion worth of crude oil. The breakdown includes the recovery of 12 million litres of stolen crude oil, 2.6 million litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), and over 31,000 litres of PMS (Petroleum Motor Spirit), alongside other valuable resources.
“These efforts are yielding results, and Nigeria’s daily crude oil production output has reached an all-time high. We are on track to meet our national production target,” the military spokesperson added.
As the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to intensify pressure on terrorist groups, Maj. Gen. Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to completely dismantling the infrastructure of terror.
“Our mission is clear: we will keep attacking any identified threats until these groups are decapitated and no longer able to launch terror attacks against our citizens,” he affirmed.
The military’s comprehensive efforts signal a turning point in the fight against terrorism, as the nation inches closer to restoring peace and stability across all regions.
In a strong call for enhanced global responsibility, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has urged the international community to strengthen its support for victims of terrorism.
Speaking at the United Nations Headquarters during the fifth Ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism in New York, Badaru reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of terrorism victims.
Badaru emphasized that Nigeria was proud to have contributed to the 2023 8th Review of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS), which underscored the importance of dignity, respect, and the involvement of victims in the fight against terrorism.
“The role of survivors in preventing and countering terrorism cannot be understated,” the minister remarked.
He urged for enhanced protection and comprehensive support for terrorism survivors and their communities.
Badaru called for inclusive, community-led initiatives that promote dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion, as well as greater international investments in restoring quality education for those affected by terrorism.
“Education is a key pillar in providing employment and preventing terrorism recruitment,” he said, advocating for innovative educational solutions to empower victims.
He condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and the deliberate targeting of schools by terrorist groups, which have disrupted education and hampered the development of communities.
The Defence Minister praised the efforts of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, led by Vladimir Voronkov, in promoting international solidarity for victims of terrorism.
He reiterated that collective responsibility and action from the global community would contribute significantly to alleviating the plight of those affected by terrorism.
Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to both defending the rights of victims and providing them with the necessary support, as it continues to partner with global allies in the fight against terrorism.
His Excellency Bishop Dr S. Madhan Raj, the Sri Lankan Country Representative of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization (WSDGsO), has extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly sworn-in 9th President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
In his congratulatory message, Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj expressed optimism for the future of Sri Lanka under the leadership of President Dissanayake, highlighting the President’s long-standing commitment to progressive ideals and his vision for a prosperous, unified nation.
“Your Excellency, your inauguration represents a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s history. As the country takes steps towards unity, peace, and sustainable development, I am confident that your administration will prioritize the needs of the people while fostering the values enshrined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj stated.
He further noted that the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization stands ready to support the government in its efforts to promote sustainable growth, reduce inequality, and tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, economic reform, and social justice.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between governmental institutions and international organizations to achieve the global development agenda, ensuring no one is left behind.
Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj reiterated the organization’s commitment to working closely with the new government in addressing critical areas, including healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, which align with both national priorities and the SDGs.
Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj called upon all Sri Lankans to unite in the pursuit of common goals, fostering peace, progress, and sustainable development.
In anticipation of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has laid out a series of high-impact initiatives.
Badaru made the announcement during a press briefing today at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, outlined the nation’s ongoing security efforts, advances in the military sector, and the government’s commitment to veteran welfare, with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day serving as a momentous opportunity to honor Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
The 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, scheduled for January 15, 2025, will commemorate the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers who laid down their lives, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.
The Minister emphasized the symbolic importance of this day, stressing the need to remember and support both veterans and the families of fallen servicemen and women.
Badaru discussed Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry.
He noted that although the country has faced serious security challenges for more than a decade, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant progress in restoring peace and security.
“Thanks to the resilience and dedication of our troops, we now have a situation that is under control,” the Minister stated.
He revealed that more than 100,000 insurgents have surrendered in recent months, and several top commanders have been eliminated in coordinated operations.
The Minister also highlighted the success of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads.
He mentioned a notable operation in June 2024, during which the MNJTF neutralized terrorists and rescued 34 women and children in the Lake Chad region.
Furthermore, Nigerian Air Force airstrikes in Katsina State resulted in the elimination of over 80 terrorists, contributing to a 65% reduction in security breaches across the country.
While hinting the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), he explained that the DICON Act, signed into law in November 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, has paved the way for Nigeria to become self-reliant in the production of military hardware, munitions, and ammunition.
“The revitalization of DICON is not just about bolstering our defence capabilities, it is a move toward national pride, self-sufficiency, and economic growth,” Abubakar stated.
He called on private and corporate investors to explore the opportunities DICON presents, particularly as the Ministry has already signed multiple agreements with local and foreign partners to establish a Military Industrial Complex in Nigeria.
This initiative will not only create thousands of jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s defence technology sector. By producing munitions and equipment locally, the country stands to save millions of dollars that would have otherwise gone into imports, bolstering the local economy and strengthening the Naira.
The Honourable Minister outlined the series of activities planned for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, with a focus on remembering fallen heroes, supporting veterans, and honoring military personnel.
According to him, “The Notable activities include Nigerian Legion Humanitarian Day Scheduled for October 2, 2024, this event will see Legionnaires engage in community service while empowering the widows and orphans of fallen heroes across the nation. Also, there will be Emblem Launch by President Tinubu On October 23, 2024, President Tinubu will lead the launch of the official emblem for the 2025 celebration at the State House in Abuja. And also Jumma’at prayers at the National Mosque on January 10, 2025, followed by an interdenominational service at the National Christian Centre on January 12, 2025. These will be held in honor of Nigeria’s veterans. Wreath Laying CeremonyOn January 15, 2025, President Tinubu and other dignitaries will lay wreaths at the National Arcade in Abuja. This will be replicated in all states of the Federation, with governors leading the ceremony.”
The welfare of Nigeria’s veterans was a central theme of the press briefing, with Minister outlining several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for veterans and their families. Among the key projects is the establishment of Skills Acquisition Centres in each geopolitical zone.
He disclosed that the first of these centres, located in Taraba State, is nearing completion and will soon be operational.
“These centres are expected to equip veterans, widows, and dependants of fallen heroes with essential skills to support their livelihoods.” He added
The Minister also addressed issues surrounding military pensions, assuring veterans that the Military Pensions Board (MPB) is actively working to ensure regular pension payments and the prompt resolution of all grievances related to the Security Debarment Allowance (SDA).
Badaru called on all Nigerians to use the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the military and to foster national unity.
He also urged the media to provide extensive coverage of the day’s events, ensuring that the public remains aware of the enduring contributions of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
As the Ministry of Defence gears up for this significant occasion, it remains dedicated to bolstering national security, supporting the Armed Forces, and honoring the memory of Nigeria’s military heroes.
The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has entered into a landmark partnership with Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC), Toulouse, France.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Monday, September 23, 2024, marking a significant step towards advancing aviation education in Nigeria and Africa.
Leading the AAAU delegation was the university’s Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, who outlined the strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing educational and professional opportunities in the aviation sector. Key areas of the MOU include an Advanced Masters Programme for industry professionals and a student exchange programme, which will foster academic enrichment and knowledge transfer between the two institutions.
Additionally, the partnership includes provisions for advanced training for AAAU lecturers and opportunities for faculty members to engage in affiliated teaching roles at ENAC.
This agreement follows the initiative of Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), which began in February 2024. It is expected to solidify AAAU’s position as a leading aviation institution in Africa.
ENAC, renowned for its 70-year history in aviation education, operates under the French Civil Aviation Authority and offers a broad range of programs in aeronautics engineering, pilot training, and air navigation.
The institution boasts a diverse student body, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a highly experienced faculty. Its strategic partnership with Airbus, Europe’s largest aeronautics and space company, further strengthens its role in civil aviation education and research.
This collaboration is set to open new avenues for AAAU, providing access to ENAC’s vast expertise and resources, positioning it as a key player in the global aviation industry.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which declares Africa a nuclear weapon-free zone.
Speaking at the high-level meeting of the “Friends of Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty” initiative, hosted by Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Badaru emphasized the importance of a nuclear-free Africa for future generations.
Nigeria joined several like-minded nations in launching a campaign advocating for a treaty that would prohibit the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other explosive devices, aiming to curb the proliferation and enhancement of nuclear arsenals globally.
Badaru reaffirmed that Nigeria, along with the African continent, remains steadfast in its commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which has long declared Africa as a nuclear weapon-free zone.
He emphasized that Nigeria will continue to play a leading role in global efforts for nuclear disarmament and the prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation.
“Nigeria remains a key advocate for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, actively participating in initiatives aimed at strengthening the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and advancing the proposed Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty (FMCT),” Badaru stated.
He added that the FMCT, once adopted, would prohibit the production of fissile materials for use in nuclear weapons, thereby enhancing global nuclear security.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of the FMCT in fostering transparency and cooperation between nuclear and non-nuclear states, promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
He called for full support from African nations and civil society organizations for the FMCT initiative.
As the cornerstone of global nuclear disarmament efforts, Badaru reiterated that the NPT remains vital to global security, and the adoption of the FMCT would only serve to reinforce its objectives.
He urged stakeholders worldwide to rally behind this crucial initiative.
The high-level meeting saw participation from several nations and civil society organizations, all dedicated to advancing global nuclear disarmament efforts.
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