PDP Not a Comedy Party-Idowu

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to Senator Dino Melaye, telling him to take the party seriously or leave.

Idowu Unoja, a chieftain of the PDP from Kogi State, made the statement in response to Melaye’s recent actions, which have brought the party into disrepute.

Melaye’s failure to vote for himself during the last governorship election in Kogi State, despite the party raising over N1 billion for his campaign, is a betrayal of the party’s trust. Furthermore, his inability to mobilize party faithful in Kogi State has raised questions about his commitment to the party’s success.

To make matters worse, Melaye has squandered the party’s resources on luxury cars and a lavish lifestyle, without any visible means of income. This reckless display of wealth has embarrassed the party and its leadership.

Revelations of Melaye’s attempts to reconcile with APC leader Bola Tinubu through Daniel Bwala have led many to question his loyalty and commitment to the PDP.

It is particularly shameful that despite the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Ambassador Damangu Umar, being magnanimous in their support for Melaye, he has chosen to cast aspersions on their leadership.

“The PDP is not a comedy party, and we will not tolerate any behavior that brings us into disrepute,” Unoja said. “We call on Senator Melaye to take the PDP seriously or leave. His actions are a slap in the face to the party and its supporters.”

The party’s leadership must now decide whether to continue tolerating Melaye’s antics or take a stand against him. The PDP’s values and integrity are at stake.

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FG Reaffirms Commitment to Training Youth as Job Creators

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to implementing policies that equip Nigerian youth with the skills necessary to become job creators rather than job seekers, as part of efforts to curb youth unemployment in the country.

This was emphasized by Prince Olugbenga Momoh, Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, during the closing ceremony of a two-week training workshop at the National Youth Development Centre in Ode Omu, Osun State.

The workshop focused on equipping young entrepreneurs with the knowledge to generate, design, and craft bankable business plans.

Prince Momoh highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship in addressing the nation’s unemployment challenges, noting that the ability to create and present a solid business plan is essential in today’s competitive market.

“It’s not just about starting a business; it’s about setting smart goals and objectives when developing a business plan,” he stated.

He further noted that a well-structured business plan not only supports an entrepreneurial journey but also attracts potential investors and secures necessary funding.

Prince Momoh commended the participants for their active involvement throughout the workshop, stressing that the skills and knowledge they acquired are foundational to their future business success.

Itohan Odigwe, the program coordinator, echoed these sentiments, stating that the training provided the youth with the tools needed to create business plans that would appeal to financial institutions.

She urged the participants to apply the lessons learned and share their knowledge within their communities.

“We covered various modules on generating business ideas, identifying market needs, and engaging in practical exercises that help solidify these concepts. This hands-on approach will enable the participants to craft their own business plans post-workshop,” Odigwe explained.

She also noted that the training is one of the prerequisites for accessing the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF).

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the program, with Mr. Moses Odigwe from Delta State and Miss Fatia Kolejo from Lagos State describing it as highly beneficial in guiding them toward successful entrepreneurship.

The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants.

Group photograph of participants at the workshop

Nigerian Military Achieves Significant Gains in Counter-Terrorism Operations

Maryam Aminu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria have reported substantial progress in their ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the nation, with significant achievements recorded in the North-East (NE), North-West (NW), and North-Central (NC) regions.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba expressed that in the latest operations, the military has successfully neutralized numerous terrorist leaders and commanders.

Major Buba noted that troops in the North-Central region apprehended several notorious kidnappers and arms traffickers, further weakening criminal networks in the area.

During the week under review, military operations led to the neutralization of 171 individuals involved in terrorist activities and the arrest of 302 suspects. Troops also apprehended 25 individuals involved in oil theft and rescued 134 kidnapped hostages.

He added that in the South-South (SS) region, military efforts prevented the theft of oil valued at approximately ₦846.48 million.

The Armed Forces recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition, including one PKT gun, one G3 rifle, three AK-49 rifles, 44 AK-47 rifles, ten fabricated rifles, 18 dane guns, ten pump-action shotguns, four locally-made pistols, 18 AK-47 magazines, two FN magazines, a smoke grenade, and a bandolier.

Major Buba further expressed that troops recovered 843 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 506 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 60 rounds of 7.62x54mm ball-rimmed ammunition, 90 live cartridges, five Baofeng radios, 11 vehicles, 46 motorcycles, four bicycles, 52 mobile phones, cutlasses, and the sum of ₦126,285.

He disclosed that in the Niger Delta region, troops discovered and destroyed 26 dugout pits, 13 boats, 90 drums, 45 storage tanks, 155 cooking ovens, four speedboats, one pumping machine, seven vehicles, and 98 illegal refining sites.

The military also recovered 799,400 litres of stolen crude oil and 151,150 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

Major Buba reiterated the Armed Forces commitment to sustaining these operations across the country, ensuring the enduring defeat of terrorist groups and the safety of all citizens.

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CLEEN Foundation Calls for Collaborative Peace Efforts in Benue State

Bilkisu Adejoh

The CLEEN Foundation, a prominent peace advocacy Civil Society Organization (CSO), has underscored the importance of collective responsibility in fostering peace across Benue State.

The foundation emphasized that achieving lasting peace requires the active involvement and collaboration of all community members, with a special focus on the role of women in conflict resolution.

During a courtesy visit to the Benue State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ann Itodo Benjamin, in Makurdi on Wednesday, the foundation reiterated the critical role peace plays in the prosperity and well-being of any community.

Dr. Gabriel Akinremi, who led the delegation on behalf of the Foundation’s Executive Director, Dr. Gad Peter, also engaged with traditional and religious leaders in Guma and Gwer Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state as part of the advocacy effort.

In his address, Dr. Akinremi highlighted the necessity of involving various stakeholders in conflict management to maintain peace within communities.

He stressed that peacebuilding efforts must include diverse perspectives to be effective, particularly those of women.

“Conflict management by various stakeholders is crucial to maintaining peace within any community. It requires the active participation and collaboration of all community members,” Akinremi remarked.

“Women bring unique perspectives to peace processes and conflict management, often leading to more sustainable outcomes. Their inclusion is not just about gender equality; it’s about ensuring effectiveness and comprehensive solutions.”

Akinremi further emphasized that women’s involvement in peace processes leads to agreements that better reflect the needs of the entire community, thereby contributing to long-term stability.

He called for a united approach among all stakeholders including leaders, NGOs, elders, youth, and both men and women to enhance peace and conflict management efforts.

“Each person’s contribution is valuable, and it’s essential that women have an equal seat at the table. This inclusivity can transform conflict management, promote justice, and establish peace as the norm,” Akinremi added.

Responding, Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director of the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, noted that peace is fundamental to the development of any community.

She explained that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather the presence of justice, mutual respect, and understanding.

“Peace is the foundation of every thriving community. Without it, our collective efforts to secure a better future for ourselves and our children are undermined,” Mrs. Andor stated.

“Achieving peace requires the participation of all community members, who must work together to resolve disputes, prevent violence, and foster reconciliation.”

Mrs. Andor also highlighted the essential role of collaboration in conflict management, noting that no single individual or group can achieve peace alone.

She urged continuous dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding to address the root causes of conflict and build lasting peace.

“Involving women in peace processes is not only a matter of gender equality but also crucial for effectiveness. Women, with their deep understanding of social dynamics, often serve as mediators and advocates for peace. Their inclusion strengthens our collective capacity to secure enduring peace,” Mrs. Andor concluded.

The engagement by the CLEEN Foundation and the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare reflects a committed effort to promote a more inclusive and effective approach to peacebuilding in Benue State, focusing on the vital roles all community members can play in achieving and sustaining peace.

CLEEN Foundation, PSC to Convene Bi-Annual Police Executive Forum as Argungu Vows to Eradicate Corruption

By Bilkisu Adejoh

The CLEEN Foundation, a Justice Sector Reform NGO, has announced its collaboration with the Police Service Commission (PSC) to convene a bi-annual Police Executive Forum.

This initiative aims to address challenges within the Nigeria Police Force and enhance collaboration among key stakeholders.

During a meeting between a delegation from CLEEN Foundation, led by its Executive Director Gad Peters, and the PSC’s Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), the two organizations agreed on the importance of this forum in promoting transparency and integrity within the police force.

Gad Peters commended the PSC’s efforts to foster transparency and fairness within the Nigeria Police Force.

He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to ensure that police officers act within the bounds of the law and respect citizens’ rights.

Peters also proposed the integration of the Human Rights Information Management System with the PSC’s platform to improve accountability and facilitate the reporting of rights violations in the field.

“This initiative aligns with the CLEEN Foundation’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and good governance,” Peters noted.

The forum, which will bring together police executives and security stakeholders, is intended to review ongoing issues, strengthen coordination, and uphold the rights and safety of all Nigerians.

In response, DIG Argungu reiterated his commitment to eliminating corruption in police recruitment, promotion, and disciplinary processes.

He assured that his tenure would be characterized by openness and a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, both within the Commission and the broader police force.

“We will be as transparent as possible in everything we do, be it recruitment, promotion, or discipline. We will also commence geo-political verification of all serving police officers to meticulously confirm those who are still in service,” Argungu stated.

He further pledged to act as a whistleblower against any corrupt activities within the system, asserting that such measures would serve as a deterrent to those intent on undermining the integrity of the police force.

The collaboration between CLEEN Foundation and PSC marks a significant step towards strengthening the professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force and ensuring that the rights and dignity of all Nigerians are protected.

North Central Integrity Forum Warns Ganduje Against Partisanship in Benue APC Crisis

Bilkisu Adejoh

The North Central Integrity Forum has issued a stern warning to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, urging him to refrain from taking sides in the ongoing crisis within the Benue State chapter of the party.

In a strongly worded statement, the Chairman of the North Central Integrity From, Mr Joseph Maiwada expressed his displeasure over Ganduje’s alleged partiality, advising him to step down from his position if he cannot remain neutral in resolving the issues plaguing the APC in Benue State.

“We, the members of the North Central Integrity Forum, are deeply concerned about the unfolding events in Benue State. It has come to our attention that Dr. Ganduje may be taking sides in the crisis rocking the state’s APC. We advise him to resign if he cannot handle the matter impartially, Maiwada added.

Maiwada further emphasized his unwavering support for Senator George Akume, describing him as a “beloved leader” whose integrity and leadership in the region are beyond reproach.

He warned that the North Central Integrity Forum would not tolerate any actions or decisions that could undermine Senator Akume or the interests of the North Central region.

“We will not tolerate anything or be part of any action that goes against our beloved leader, Senator George Akume. The North Central region deserves fair and just leadership, and we will stand firm to ensure that our interests are protected,” he added.

The crisis within the Benue State APC has escalated in recent weeks, with factions within the party at odds over leadership and direction.

The North Central Integrity Forum statement adds to the growing pressure on the APC’s national leadership to address the issues in Benue State with fairness and objectivity.

FG Launches the National Youth Dialogue to tackle challenges facing Nigerian Youth

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has launched the National Youth Dialogue to tackle challenges facing Nigerian Youth.

The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande performed the unveiling ceremony at his office in Abuja.

He said the unprecedented initiative is aimed at engaging Nigerian youth in constructive conversations to tackle critical issues such as unemployment, skill development, mental health and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Mr Olawande noted that the groundbreaking dialogue will provide a platform for youth to voice their concerns and contribute to shaping policies that directly impact their future.

The Minister emphasized that the platform will be extended to Nigerian youth in all the 774 local government areas across the country, adding that it will serve as a vital channel to elucidate, engage and exchange ideas on government initiatives, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

He stressed the importance of the platform in nurturing a strong sense of patriotism among the Nigerian Youth while fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, provision of extensive training as well as creating networks aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of youth-led initiatives.

Mr Olawande explained that the platform seeks to encourage collaboration and unity among Nigerian youth irrespective of their ethnic background or political beliefs.

He emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to utilizing this opportunity to fulfill its core mandate, combat unemployment, and foster an environment conducive for individuals to thrive.

“With regards to the student loan program, the President has made it abundantly clear that no student should face the prospect of dropping out of school due to an inability to pay tuition fees at any university in the country. As a result, a growing number of students are now successfully accessing the student loan, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their pursuit of higher education,” he stated.

The Minister encouraged Nigerian youth to capitalize on government initiatives such as the Reformed Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) and various other accessible platforms to bolster the expansion of their entrepreneurial ventures.

He further explained that these programmes provide a direct avenue for obtaining loans and financial support, stressing that aspirants no longer need to rely on influential connections to access crucial funding.

AAAU Partners with NCAT to Boost Academic and Industrial Opportunities

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to bolster academic excellence and practical training, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.

The partnership aims to provide enhanced industrial experience and academic collaboration for students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at NCAT’s Abuja office, with the AAAU delegation led by the university’s Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi.

Speaking at the event, Abdullahi underscored the importance of such collaborations as AAAU continues to expand.

He highlighted that the partnership with NCAT is essential for equipping Aviation Business students with the practical experience needed to excel in the industry.

Abdullahi stressed that this agreement is just the beginning of a strong and enduring relationship between the two institutions.

Joseph Imalighwe, Director General of NCAT, expressed his pleasure in welcoming the AAAU team.

He pointed out that NCAT has a long history of successful partnerships and assured that the college would be fully committed to ensuring the success of this MoU.

Imalighwe urged AAAU to maintain its momentum in driving the collaboration forward, promising that the partnership would be mutually beneficial and result in greater achievements for both institutions.

The collaboration is expected to significantly enhance the academic and practical training opportunities available to AAAU students, preparing them for successful careers in the aviation industry.

Group photograph of AAAU and NCAT Team

CISLAC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Police Harassment of NLC Leadership

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as a “desperate attempt” to silence the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) amid the ongoing investigations into the organization’s leadership.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC condemned the recent actions of security forces, which included the unexpected siege of the NLC complex in Abuja on August 7, 2024.

He expressed that the incident occurred just hours after the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting criticized the government’s heavy-handed approach during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

The situation escalated further when NLC President Joe Ajaero received a summons from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team (IRT), on charges of “criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.” Ajaero has been requested to appear for an interview at the IRT Complex in Guzape District, Abuja, on August 20, 2024.

CISLAC has called for the investigation to be conducted transparently, urging that the process be fair and open to scrutiny.

Rafsanjani stressed that both the integrity of the NLC and the police are at stake, and that the investigation should not be a means to fabricate charges against the labour leadership.

He further highlighted growing public frustration with the government’s handling of security issues, citing the recent kidnapping of the Emir of Gobir and the increasing activities of criminals who operate with impunity.

CISLAC contrasted this with what it perceives as the misplaced priorities of the police, who have been accused of using excessive force against peaceful protesters.

Rafsanjani expressed concern that the ongoing situation could further damage Nigeria’s international reputation, warning that it could be seen as an attempt by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to stifle civil liberties.

He advised the President to take personal action to prevent further erosion of the country’s democratic institutions.

CISLAC also urged other non-state actors, including journalists and civil society organizations, to be vigilant, warning that they too could become targets of similar tactics aimed at suppressing dissent and criticism.

Rafsanjani called for urgent action to restore public trust in the country’s security and justice systems.

NSIPA Debunks False News Circulating on Social Media

Emmanuel Daudu

The National Social Investment Programmes Agency (NSIPA) has issued an official statement addressing the circulation of an outdated news story on social media, which claims that the Federal Government has approved all outstanding payments for independent monitors and other beneficiaries of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP).

In a statement, Jamaludeen Kabir, the National Communications Manager of NSIPA disclosed the information as misleading and does not reflect any recent developments.

The agency clarified that the news being shared is old and is being falsely presented as breaking news.

NSIPA implored the public to disregard such content and to verify any information through reliable sources.

Kabir emphasized the agency’s commitment to advancing social investment programs in Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians to stay informed by following NSIPA’s official social media channels and to be wary of misinformation spread by individuals attempting to mislead the public.

“NSIPA remains focused on improving the lives of our citizens through transparent, impactful, and well-monitored social investment initiatives. We encourage the public to rely on our verified channels for accurate updates,” Kabir stated.

NSIPA reassures the public that all official news and updates will continue to be communicated through verified social media handles and other trustworthy local media outlets.

The agency thanked Nigerians for their continued trust and support.