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National Social Investment Programmes Agency (NSIPA) has issued an official statement addressing the circulation of an outdated news story on social media, which claims that the Federal Government has approved all outstanding payments for independent monitors and other beneficiaries of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.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called on media professionals to prioritize responsible and accurate reporting in aviation coverage, emphasizing the dangers of sensationalism and the importance of fostering public trust.
This was the central message delivered during a two-day media workshop held in Nasarawa State, themed: “Driving Aviation Safety and Security Through Effective Regulation: The Role of The Media.”
The workshop, which took place from August 16-17, 2024, brought together aviation correspondents from various media outlets to explore the crucial role of the media in promoting aviation safety and upholding public confidence in the industry.
The event was organized by the NCAA’s Public Relations Department and facilitated by Tom Associates, with key presentations by Mr. Temitope Jegede, Managing Director of Tom Associates, and Dr. Ola Azeez, an expert in aviation safety regulations.
Dr. Azeez’s presentations focused on the NCAA’s regulatory powers and the importance of media partnerships in ensuring accurate and effective reporting on aviation matters.
He stressed the need for journalists to develop a comprehensive understanding of aviation regulations to report incidents accurately and prevent the spread of misinformation and unnecessary public alarm.
“In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly via social media, it is vital for the media to act as a reliable source of truth, particularly during crises,” Dr. Azeez stated.
He also underscored the significance of the NCAA’s autonomy in maintaining international standards within Nigeria’s aviation industry and urged journalists to grasp the complexities of the regulatory framework.
The workshop highlighted the importance of building strong partnerships between the media and regulatory bodies like the NCAA.
Dr. Azeez encouraged journalists to foster collaborative relationships with these entities, noting that such partnerships are essential for cultivating a safety-first culture within the aviation sector.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions, discussing the challenges of reporting on aviation news and sharing strategies for improving the quality and impact of their coverage.
The workshop concluded with the adoption of a ten-point communiqué, which affirmed the participants’ commitment to responsible journalism and effective collaboration with the NCAA to enhance aviation safety and security in Nigeria.
One of the workshop’s highlights was a Kahoot media competition, where teams of journalists tested their knowledge of aviation safety.
North East Team with resource persons
The North East Team, comprising of Maryam Aminu, Ameh Gabriel, Promise Chioma, and Mrs. Mbamalu Uju, emerged victorious, demonstrating an exceptional understanding of the topics discussed.
Their win underscored the importance of continuous learning and collaboration between the media and aviation regulators.
Overall, the NCAA’s media workshop served as a vital platform for strengthening the relationship between the aviation industry and the press, ensuring that the dissemination of accurate information on aviation safety remains a top priority for all stakeholders involved.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru has urged the National Defence College (NDC) Course 32 graduands to advance the tenets of democracy, emphasizing its importance as a pathway to Africa’s unity and development.
During the graduation lecture, themed “Democracy Beyond the Ballot Box: A Pathway to Africa’s Unity and Development,” the Minister underscored that democracy’s value in Africa extends far beyond electoral processes.
Badaru stressed the significance of inclusive governance, where citizens are actively engaged in decision-making throughout the entire electoral cycle.
“Democracy in Africa holds great virtues that extend far beyond the mere act of voting in an election,” the Minister stated.
He highlighted the importance of transparency and inclusivity in fostering trust in institutions and creating a cohesive society driven by shared goals and collective responsibility.
The Minister also praised regional bodies like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) for their role in promoting democratic governance across the continent.
He noted that these institutions are crucial in setting regional and continental standards, supporting member states in implementing democratic principles, and fostering collaboration on issues such as trade, security, and climate change.
According to him, this regional cohesion, driven by democratic values, can enhance collective problem-solving and drive development efforts more effectively.
The Minister called on the graduating participants to apply the strategic knowledge they acquired during their course to advance democracy and ensure a secure environment for development across Africa.
“Development can only thrive where there is security. You must leverage the knowledge you have acquired to provide an enabling security environment for the development that the African continent is yearning for,” the Minister urged.
The event was graced by the presence of the former President of the Republic of Tanzania, H. E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, who served as the guest speaker.
The Minister further expressed optimism that democracy would continue to catalyze unity and development across Africa, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in building a strong and united continent.
“Let us embrace democratic norms as a pathway to engendering Africa’s unity and development,” the Minister implored.
In light of the recent seizure of three Nigerian presidential jets by a French court, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International Nigeria (TI-Nigeria) have called on state governors to exercise greater caution and thoroughness in contract negotiations.
This warning follows a protracted legal battle involving the Ogun State Government and the Chinese firm Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, related to a 2007 agreement for the development of the Ogun Free Trade Zone.
Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC/TI-Nigeria, expressed serious concern over the implications of the poorly managed contract, which has led to significant financial repercussions and damaged Nigeria’s international reputation.
In a statement, Rafsanjani urged state officials to ensure they fully understand the legal and ethical dimensions of international agreements before committing to them.
“Given the many socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria, the country cannot afford to be ensnared in expensive and avoidable legal disputes,” Rafsanjani stated.
He further criticized the federal government for allowing state governors to obtain loans without proper risk assessment, warning that personal interests often drive officials into problematic contracts.
Drawing parallels to the notorious P&ID case, Rafsanjani highlighted that Nigeria’s failure to perform due diligence in international agreements has led to severe financial penalties. The P&ID case alone resulted in a $6.6 billion fine, which later ballooned to $11 billion due to interest accruals.
CISLAC and Transparency International have consistently advocated for global transparency and accountability, particularly in the wake of the P&ID arbitration ruling in 2017.
Rafsanjani noted that the organizations worked alongside local and international partners to demand a full investigation into those who undermined Nigeria’s interests in that case, expressing disappointment at the previous administration’s inaction.
CISLAC Boss commended ongoing global advocacy efforts, which have temporarily relieved Nigeria through a favorable UK court ruling. Nonetheless, CISLAC has renewed its call for President Bola Tinubu and anti-corruption agencies to take decisive action against those involved in the P&ID scandal, including former senior officials.
CISLAC/TI-Nigeria’s message serves as a critical reminder of the importance of due diligence and ethical governance in managing international contracts.
As Nigeria navigates this complex legal terrain, the organization insists that vigilance and thorough legal consultation are crucial to avoiding further costly disputes.
The Director General of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), Emem Omokaro Ph.D today reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving the lives of senior citizens across Nigeria.
Dr. Omokaro disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Commissioner for Special Duties of Anambra State, Rt. Hon. Barr. Beverly Ikpeazu Nkemdiche at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
She emphasized the Centre’s mandate of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for older persons, while highlighting the Centre’s ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of senior citizens through developing income security programs with need assessments for older persons, policy development, healthcare access, and age-friendly programs designed to promote the dignity and rights of older persons in Nigeria.
“The well-being of our senior citizens is a priority for the agency, and partnerships such as this are essential to ensuring that we achieve our mandate,” the DG remarked. “We will continue to work towards a society where older persons are valued, respected, and fully supported in every aspect of their lives”.
Speaking further, Emem assured the Commissioner of NSCC’s readiness to provide the necessary support in rolling out initiatives that will improve the quality of life for senior citizens in Anambra State and beyond.
The Commissioner of Special Duties, Anambra State, Rt. Hon. Barr. Beverly Ikpeazu, expressed the state’s interest in partnering with NSCC to tackle challenges related to ageing and ensure that senior citizens in Anambra State receive the care and support they deserve. The Commissioner noted that as the elderly population continues to grow, there is a pressing need for collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to address the unique needs of this demographic.
In her remarks, the Commissioner added that the Government of Anambra State led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo is intentional about the affairs and well being of senior citizens.
The controversies over the parcels of land in Alma Beach, Ikate Lagos are yet to abate .Abah Onah, Frank Briggs, Amythorix company Limited and a host of others who own buildings in the area are poised for a renewed legal claim of ownership to the properties situate at Ikate, Lekki area of the state. They recently approached Court of Appeal to commence contempt proceedings against Lagos State Ministry of physical planning and Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA over what they termed ‘ lawlessness, impunity and abuse to the constitutional supremacy of Court decisions “
In an affidavit sworn to at the Court of Appeal on the 17th July, 2024 by Monday Peter an official of Amytorix company, LASBCA was alleged to have rolled in bulldozers into part of their landed property and demolished buildings and assets worth over N 1,000,000,000.00( One billion Naira). He claimed that LASBCA’s action is a direct affront and denigration of the processes of Court and asked the Appeal Court to ensure the sanctity of the judicial process and respect for the rule of law.
“Unless this Court grants this application, the contemnors will continue with the nefarious activities of invading the premises of the Appellant/Application to demolish and destroy the remaining properties’, Peter swore in the affidavit which was sighted by this medium.
Abah Onah and Amytorix company who claim rightful ownership of the landed property described the action by agents of Lagos State Government as Contemptuous of the Court of APPEAL which had heard arguments in Appeal NO: CAL/LAG/CV/172/- Amythorix Company Limited v. Netconstruct Limited & ANOR.
LASBCA was alleged to have demolished the buildings which according to the owners have approval from appropriate authorities.
Abah Onah told newsmen that LASBCA or its GM acted contrary to subsisting judgments and orders of court in his quest to grab land for his friends – Netconstruct and Afolabi Oseni. He said Gbolahan Oki, General Manager of LASBCA rolled in bull dozers at 10 pm at night with Policemen and thugs on Friday the 12th July 2024 defying the law and pulling down premises worth billions of naira.
Onah added that LASBCA GM threatened to fully demolish the estate notwithstanding the court orders and that no order can restrain him. Stating that he has many excuses as cover to demolish any house he wishes. At a post demolition meeting called by the SA e-Gis & Urban Development, the supervising ministry of Oki at which they continued the threat and directive for the others to “negotiate “ with their clients Netconstruct & Afolabi Oseni, Netconstruct Lawyer Muiz Banire, SAN announced that a 2022 legal advice by the Lagos state Attorney General endorsed by the Governor being relied on by the Abah Onah and Amythorix was what “consumed” the former attorney General and the new Attorney General was coming up with a favorable report to them! Netconstruct.The now shaken developers became threatened!
According to Onah, “Oki issued further threats at a meeting summoned by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Urban Planning, Jide Babatunde on the 23rd July with Gbolahan Oki , Afolabi Oseni and his Lawyer Muiz Banire in attendance. The SA clearly in partisanship called Muiz Banire their “ uncle “ in the ministry “ and respect must be given to whom it is due”. This was notwithstanding that Muiz Banire, SAN had argued an application before the Court of Appeal for which a Ruling was pending.
Onah Briggs and Amythorix company who had also petitioned the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu agued that’ “there is complete break down of law and order in government circles” and some persons have hijacked the machinery of government to further their personal interests
Briggs told our correspondent that he is yet to understand reasons for the demolition of his property because according to him, ‘ I was fined 21M Naira for erecting structures without approval sometimes ago and LASBCA GM, Gbolahan Oki gave me an account number of Sterling bank with account number: 0072092193 with account name: Akannistic Ventures into which I was directed to pay the fine which I did and wondered what necessitated the demolition of my property’’.
Last week, on behalf of Abah Ona, Briggs and Amytorix company, Sir Ejeta Otuoniyo a legal practitioner submitted a petition to the Governor of Lagos State alleging Gbolahan Oki, LASBCA GM of giving the government a bad image of not respecting judgments and its process.
Sir Ejeta stated that “we have become astounded and completely alarmed that certain individuals have hijacked government agencies and are running them as gestapo organizations within Government, seeking to cripple commercial activities in the country’s commercial nerve center
“If judgments and commercial contracts suffer colorations of primordial sentiments and disregard, then anarchy and complete collapse, loom”, the famous Lagos based lawyer warned.
In a telephone conversation, the Oki, the LASBCA GM debunked the allegation of the petitioner, noting he has been doing his job and that whoever feels aggrieved is free to approach the court.
Victor Felix, LASBCA media officer told our correspondent that the agency does not collect fines in private accounts and that all fines and levies are paid directly to the government coffers. He denied knowledge of any court summons promising to confirm same from the agency’s legal department but couldn’t respond till the time of filling this report.
The Nigerian Female Youth Organization (NFYO) has strongly condemned recent rumours circulating about the death of renowned politician and philanthropist, Senator Prince Ned Nwoko.
The organization’s President, Princess Mimi Peter in a statement, expressed her outrage over the baseless claims, describing them as not only false but also dangerous.
In her statement, she emphasized the potential harm such rumors could cause, particularly to those whose livelihoods depend on Prince Nwoko’s continued well-being.
“Spreading false news of this nature can lead to unnecessary panic, emotional distress, and even tragic consequences for those who are closely associated with Ned Nwoko,” Princess Mimi noted.
She further warned those responsible for disseminating the rumours to desist from such actions saying it has gone too far and will not be tolerated.
Princess Mimi highlighted the legal repercussions the peddlers might face.
“If Prince Ned Nwoko decides to pursue this matter legally, no one should accuse him of abusing his political power. The damage caused by such irresponsible rumors is significant, and those responsible must be held accountable,” the statement added.
The President expressed that the proliferation of fake news has become a significant challenge, especially when it targets prominent individuals and their families.
“It is high time that the government takes decisive action against those who deliberately spread false information to exploit the public’s trust. Punishing these fake news publishers would serve as a deterrent to others who engage in such unethical practices, ensuring that the integrity of the media space is maintained.”
“For too long, certain individuals have used the Nwoko’s family as fodder for sensational content, driven purely by the desire to attract traffic to their platforms. This exploitation is not only harmful to the Nwoko family but also to the broader society, as it perpetuates misinformation and distrust.”
“Just few days ago, I paid him a visit, and I can confirm that he is in good health. This raises the question of why anyone would fabricate such damaging stories?”said Princess Mimi
She added that the spread of these falsehoods underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and penalties to curb the menace of fake news, protecting individuals and preserving the truth in public discourse.
She further called on the public to verify information before sharing it, urging everyone to consider the broader implications of spreading unverified news.
The President reiterated her support for Prince Ned Nwoko, acknowledging his contributions to the nation and urging calm among his supporters.
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of road fatalities caused by poor driving practices across Nigeria.
In a strong condemnation of these dangerous behaviors, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims involved in two tragic crashes that occurred on August 13, 2024.
He expressed that the first incident took place in Ibadan at 9:20 AM on the Ojoo/Iwo road near Ajao, opposite Bovas fuel station. The crash involved four vehicles, including a White Mack Truck (AKM 548 ZY), which suffered a brake failure and collided with three other vehicles: a White Nissan Bus (MUB 20 LG), a Red Nissan Micra (BDJ 520 YC), and a Blue Honda CRV (KRD 707 ER). The accident involved 35 people—14 men, 10 women, 6 girls, and 5 boys. Sadly, 16 people lost their lives, and 17 others sustained various injuries. The injured were taken to Amudalat Hospital in Ibadan for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Divisional Office in Ibadan.
The second fatal crash occurred in Malo at 3:14 PM, involving a White Mazda Bus (DDA 733 XA). The crash was a result of wrongful overtaking, leading the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The incident involved 16 people—12 men, 3 women, and 1 girl. Tragically, 12 people lost their lives, while the remaining 4 male adults were rescued with injuries and taken to a hospital for treatment. The bodies of the deceased were deposited at FOS Morgue in Ipara.
In his statement, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed urged all drivers and road users to adopt safe driving habits and strictly adhere to road traffic regulations. He reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to partnering with the Judiciary to ensure that drivers involved in fatal crashes face legal consequences, including the withdrawal of their licenses.
He also directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of the fleeing driver of the articulated vehicle involved in the Ibadan crash.
The FRSC remains dedicated to improving road safety and reducing the occurrence of preventable accidents on Nigeria’s roads.
The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammed Shehu Bello OFR, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his pivotal role in securing the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of Local Government Councils in Nigeria.
This ruling, described by Bello as a “landmark achievement,” was praised during a sensitisation meeting with members of the Commission’s Board and management staff.
Bello highlighted the historical significance of local government autonomy, recalling a time when Local Government Chairmen wielded significant influence and contributed meaningfully to grassroots development.
He expressed strong support for the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasizing that the restoration of autonomy is crucial for the effective functioning of local governments across the country.
“This decision is very positive for the grassroots of Nigeria,” Bello said. “In the 1970s, local governments were so powerful that even former Federal Commissioners returned to contest for local government elections. Today, unfortunately, state governors determine the fate of local governments, a situation that must change.”
He further expressed confidence that the Supreme Court’s judgement would strengthen democratic governance and ensure better service delivery at the local level.
The meeting also featured an in-depth analysis by Barrister Mohammed Abdul, a constitutional law expert and consultant to the Commission.
Abdul elaborated on the legal implications of the Supreme Court ruling, which reinforces the financial independence and operational authority of local governments.
He stressed the need for adherence to this ruling by all tiers of government to promote transparency and accountability in grassroots administration.
Abdul also addressed the controversy surrounding the judgement, noting that while some state governors had resisted the implementation of local government autonomy, the Constitution clearly recognizes local governments as a distinct tier of government entitled to a share of federal revenue.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session, where members of the Commission discussed the impact of the ruling on fund allocation to local governments and the necessary steps to ensure compliance with the new legal framework.
In his closing remarks, Nwaze Joseph Okechukwu, Secretary to the Commission, reiterated RMAFC’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy. He thanked the Chairman and Barrister Abdul for their insights and encouraged the Commission’s staff to apply the knowledge gained to promote better governance and equitable resource distribution across all tiers of government
Maryam Aminu
The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammed Shehu Bello OFR, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his pivotal role in securing the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of Local Government Councils in Nigeria.
This ruling, described by Bello as a “landmark achievement,” was praised during a sensitisation meeting with members of the Commission’s Board and management staff.
Bello highlighted the historical significance of local government autonomy, recalling a time when Local Government Chairmen wielded significant influence and contributed meaningfully to grassroots development.
He expressed strong support for the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasizing that the restoration of autonomy is crucial for the effective functioning of local governments across the country.
Muhammed Bello Shehu OFR RMAFC Chaiman
“This decision is very positive for the grassroots of Nigeria,” Bello said. “In the 1970s, local governments were so powerful that even former Federal Commissioners returned to contest for local government elections. Today, unfortunately, state governors determine the fate of local governments, a situation that must change.”
He further expressed confidence that the Supreme Court’s judgement would strengthen democratic governance and ensure better service delivery at the local level.
The meeting also featured an in-depth analysis by Barrister Mohammed Abdul, a constitutional law expert and consultant to the Commission.
Abdul elaborated on the legal implications of the Supreme Court ruling, which reinforces the financial independence and operational authority of local governments.
He stressed the need for adherence to this ruling by all tiers of government to promote transparency and accountability in grassroots administration.
Abdul also addressed the controversy surrounding the judgement, noting that while some state governors had resisted the implementation of local government autonomy, the Constitution clearly recognizes local governments as a distinct tier of government entitled to a share of federal revenue.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session, where members of the Commission discussed the impact of the ruling on fund allocation to local governments and the necessary steps to ensure compliance with the new legal framework.
In his closing remarks, Nwaze Joseph Okechukwu, Secretary to the Commission, reiterated RMAFC’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy. He thanked the Chairman and Barrister Abdul for their insights and encouraged the Commission’s staff to apply the knowledge gained to promote better governance and equitable resource distribution across all tiers of government
National Universities Commission (NUC) has recently granted full accreditation status to all the academic programmes of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences that were visited in the last accreditation exercise. One of the academic programmes got interim approval. The approval was conveyed by the Report on Accreditation Academic Programmes in Nigerian Universities communicated to the University by the supervisory agency in a letter no. NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/361 dated 6th June, 2024. The Pro Chancellor Eng. Abba, thanked the University management, especially the Head of Academics Prof. Alam Mahtab, for their effort in keeping to the standard of the University. He further urged them to continue the tempo so as to secure the full accreditation of all the other programmes in the next accreditation exercise coming up in October. The Academic programmes with full accreditation were the Departments of Accounting 84.2%, Finance 83%, Entrepreneurship 83.3% and Economics 92.6 %, while the Department of Public Administration had 73.3% getting interim approval. The Commission drew the attention of the University Management that academic programmes that obtained full accreditation status will be eligible for another accreditation exercise after five years, with interim status the programme will be eligible for accreditation after two years. The National Universities Commission undertook the accreditation exercise from October to November 2023 after issuing the University with provisional license in 2021. This is the first accreditation exercise and the University garnered 80% which is highly commendable and kudos to the current Management and the University Proprietors. Universities that are denied accreditation status will face immediate ban on students’ admission into such programmes, certificates issued to students admitted into the ban programmes will not be recognised and will be denied call-up into National Youth Service Corps scheme.
Africa Security Investigation News 