OneBarrow International Launches Community Capability Initiative to Empower Youths

Bilkisu Adejoh

OneBarrow International Launches Community Capability Initiative to Empower Youths

As the world prepares to celebrate World Youth Skills Day on July 15, OneBarrow International Limited has announced its Community Capability Initiative (CCI), a program designed to empower new graduates as they step into the corporate world.

The CEO of OneBarrow International Limited, Yemi Ajao, made the announcement in an interview with journalists on Friday in Abuja.

Ajao noted that the United Nations General Assembly declared World Youth Skills Day in 2014 to highlight the importance of equipping young people with the skills necessary for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” he said it underscored the pivotal role young people play in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts.

In alignment with this theme, OneBarrow’s CCI aims to provide young individuals with the skills, mindset, and confidence needed to navigate today’s dynamic business landscape.

“Through meticulously crafted training modules, the program seeks to prepare youth for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the corporate sector,” he said.

“CCI serves as the pipeline to companies looking to hire youths that are prepared to hit the ground running.The impact of the OneBarrow CCI training will resonate throughout the year, the skills acquired, networks formed, and knowledge gained through this program will serve as invaluable tools for the youth, enabling them to contribute to a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future,” Mr. Ajao added.

While stressing that the Community Capability Initiative is not just about skills development, he added that it is about fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to drive change and innovation.

“As young graduates embark on their professional journeys, CCI will support them in creating meaningful and lasting impacts in their communities and beyond.

“With the global emphasis on youth skills and development, OneBarrow International’s CCI stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to nurturing the potential of young people and addressing global challenges through strategic empowerment,” he reiterated.

For more information about the Community Capability Initiative and how to participate, please visit OneBarrow International’s official website at www.onebarrow.org or contact their offices:

  • Abuja office: 0706642290
  • Lagos office: 07031152242
  • US office: +2232182198

As the world prepares to celebrate World Youth Skills Day on July 15, OneBarrow International Limited has announced its Community Capability Initiative (CCI), a program designed to empower new graduates as they step into the corporate world.

The CEO of OneBarrow International Limited, Yemi Ajao, made the announcement in an interview with journalists on Friday in Abuja.

Ajao noted that the United Nations General Assembly declared World Youth Skills Day in 2014 to highlight the importance of equipping young people with the skills necessary for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” he said it underscored the pivotal role young people play in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts.

In alignment with this theme, OneBarrow’s CCI aims to provide young individuals with the skills, mindset, and confidence needed to navigate today’s dynamic business landscape.

“Through meticulously crafted training modules, the program seeks to prepare youth for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the corporate sector,” he said.

“CCI serves as the pipeline to companies looking to hire youths that are prepared to hit the ground running.The impact of the OneBarrow CCI training will resonate throughout the year, the skills acquired, networks formed, and knowledge gained through this program will serve as invaluable tools for the youth, enabling them to contribute to a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future,” Mr. Ajao added.

While stressing that the Community Capability Initiative is not just about skills development, he added that it is about fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to drive change and innovation.

“As young graduates embark on their professional journeys, CCI will support them in creating meaningful and lasting impacts in their communities and beyond.

“With the global emphasis on youth skills and development, OneBarrow International’s CCI stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to nurturing the potential of young people and addressing global challenges through strategic empowerment,” he reiterated.

For more information about the Community Capability Initiative and how to participate, please visit OneBarrow International’s official website at www.onebarrow.org or contact their offices:

  • Abuja office: 0706642290
  • Lagos office: 07031152242

Nigeria to Boost air Surveillance and Security: Badaru, Keyamo leads High-Powered delegation to Spain

By Emmanuel Daudu

In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to enhance air safety and security in Nigeria, a high-powered Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Defence, H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is currently in Spain for crucial discussions on airspace advancements.

According to a press release signed on the 13th of July, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director (Information and Public Relations), the three-day visit to Indra in Spain aims to strengthen Nigeria’s air surveillance and security capabilities through cutting-edge dual-use technology. The mission, titled “Air Surveillance for the Sovereignty, Security, and Safety of the Nigerian Airspace through Dual Use Technology (Civil and Military),” seeks to enhance Nigeria’s air surveillance capabilities, ensuring the safety of its airspace and borders.

Indra, a world-leading technology and consulting company, is the technological partner for the core business operations of its customers worldwide. The delegation received a warm welcome from Indra’s CEO, Jose Vicente de los Mozos, and senior executives, including Javier Ruano, VP of ATM, Luis Permuy, VP of International Sales, Emeric Osmont, Director of West Africa, Sergio Sanchez, Director for Institutional Relationships, and General (Rtd) Francisco Almerich, Former Chief of Air Defence Command Centre, Spanish Airforce.

During the visit, the delegation toured Indra’s Headquarters, Simulator Factory, and Academy, inspecting the latest security and safety equipment, including the Indra Defence facility. The itinerary featured a welcome and introductory speech by the CEO of Indra, followed by detailed presentations on the latest Air Traffic Control System (ACC APP TWR) Demo, Dual Project Scope Definition, Voice Communications System Demo, and a demonstration of Radar and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS).

The Nigerian delegation comprised high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman, Senate Committee On Aviation, Abdullahi Idris Garba, Chairman, House Committee On Aviation, and Air Marshall Hassan Bala Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff.

This strategic visit demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its air surveillance and security capabilities, aligning with global best practices. The collaboration with Indra is expected to yield significant benefits, including enhanced air safety, improved border security, and strengthened defence capabilities.

Musawa Celebrates Literary Icon Professor Wole Soyinka at 90-Hails naming of National Theatre after Soyinka

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa has joined Nigerians and the global community in celebrating Nigeria’s literary legend, Professor Wole Soyinka on his 90th birthday today.

According to a press release signed by the SA media and Publicity, FMACCE/PS/45, Nneka Ikem Anibeze on the 13th of July, 2024, the Minister congratulated Professor Soyinka on this remarkable milestone and acknowledged his enduring legacy.

“I wish to extend our warmest congratulations to the Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka on his 90th birthday. His contributions to literature and culture have immensely impacted our nation and the world. His legacy continues to inspire generations, and we are honored to celebrate him today.

“This milestone is a testament to his  remarkable life, dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in literature, culture, and the arts. Prof Soyinka’s contributions to Nigeria and the world are immeasurable. His writings have inspired generations, and his tireless advocacy for justice, equity, and human rights has left an indelible mark on our society.

“As we celebrate him today, we honor his legacy, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of our nation. His life’s work has been a beacon of hope, inspiring countless individuals to strive for greatness.
We are grateful for his inspiring life and legacy, and we look forward to many more years of wisdom, guidance, and inspiration”.

Musawa also expressed her excitement at the renaming of the National Theatre to the  Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and  heartily welcomes this change to the beloved Nigerian cultural landmark.

“This renaming bears testament to the enduring legacy of Professor Wole Soyinka, whose contributions to literature and culture have immensely impacted our nation and the world as a whole. The National Theatre will continue to be an icon of creativity and a symbol of our rich cultural heritage”.

The renaming comes at an appropriate time, as the theatre gears up to reopen after undergoing extensive renovations by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)/Banker’s Committee to transform the Theatre into a world-class center of culture.

The General Manager of the National Theatre, Mrs. Adetola Akerele Alao acknowledges the significant contributions of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)/Banker’s Committee towards the renovations.

“The National Theatre has always been a cornerstone of Nigerian culture, cherished by generations. Through engaging programming, and the transformation of this repository of cultural legacy into a reputable center of creativity and community, our goal is to revive that sense of awe and wonder. And under the public-private partnership with the CBN/Bankers Committee, we are confident of a sustainable cultural impact”.

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, government is committed to promoting cultural education and entertainment infrastructure. The proposed Media City, modelled after the Dubai Media City, will provide state-of-the-art facilities for film production, conference centers, and performance spaces. Existing entertainment venues and stadia will be upgraded, and new ones constructed across the country.

“As we celebrate Professor Soyinka’s 90th birthday, we also announce the establishment of an animation hub to support young talents and attract global animation studios. This initiative will provide opportunities for collaboration and skill development in the creative sector”.

The renovations to the National Theatre commenced three years ago, marking a significant chapter in the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has designated October 1st, 2024—Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary—as the date for the grand reopening of this iconic institution. The Theatre is scheduled to reopen with a spectacular array of world-class performances in the arts and an exclusive showcase of the National Art Collection. This momentous occasion promises to celebrate not only the rebirth of a cultural landmark but also the enduring spirit of Nigerian creativity and excellence.

Troops Neutralise 187 Terrorists,  Arrests 183 persons-DHQ

By Emmanuel Daudu

Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations has disclosed that during the week under review, troops neutralised 187 and arrested 183 persons. Troops also arrested 26 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 109 kidnapped hostages.
” In the SS, troops denied the oil theft of the estimated sum of One Billion One Hundred and Twenty Seven Million Two Hundred and Twenty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred and Ninty Naira (N1,127,229,890.00) only.”

General Edward made the disclosing on Thursday 11th of July, 2024 during a biweekly press briefing on the ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria as at  11 July, 2024

While stressing further, he said, “the military is keeping up the pressure through ongoing operations in five active theatres across the country.  These  theatres are namely, the NE, NW, NC, SS and SE, with the NE and NW having the highest levels of intensity.

“These operations are complex as troops are engaged in fighting in difficult terrains as well as fighting an adversaries that adopts various forms, across the country. Clearly, we have boots on the ground and are fighting in several dimensions to crush the enemy.

” Indeed, troops are fighting on ground, air, at sea as well as in the cyber dimension in several parts of the country. The common denominator in all our operations are the terrorist.

“These terrorist are the enemy that must be fought and defeated. They are responsible for keeping the nation in an almost constant state of counter terrorism and counter insurgency.


” Furthermore, troops recovered 128 assorted weapons and 3,300 assorted ammunition. The breakdown as follows: one PKT gun, 80 AK47 rifles, 15 locally fabricated gun, 15 dane guns, 2 FN rifles, 5 pump action guns, 2 single barrel guns, 4 locally fabricated pistols, one fabricated barretta pistol, one locally made double barrel gun, 2 hand grenades, 2 primed IEDs and materials.

“Others are: 1,941 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 729 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 377 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm, 191 rounds of 5.55mm ammo, 199 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammo, 16 rounds of 9mm ammo, 26 live cartridges, 26 empty case of cartridges, 26 AK47 magazines, 6 baofeng radios, 10 vehicles, 4 motorcycles, 4 walkie-talkie, mobile phones and the sum of N102,010.00 only amongst other items.

“Troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 18 dugout pits, 30 boats and 49 storage tanks.  Other items recovered include 66 cooking ovens, 4 drums, 5 speedboats, 15 vehicles, 2 tricycles, one generator, 11 mobile phones and 57 illegal refining sites. Troops recovered 1,l25,440 litres of stolen crude oil, 213,539 litres of illegally refined AGO and 1,230 litres of PMS.

“Troops are confronted by a vicious enemy that are constantly  trying to kill citizens or have killed citizens. Indeed, these terror group are responsible perpetrating insecurity across the country and will not stop doing what the are doing, until they are stopped.

“We are aware of some of the plans to target some critical infrastructure in the country. Accordingly, we have emplaced measures to forestall such plans. Security agencies responsible for securing critical infrastructure and facilities have also been placed on alert. Accordingly, some of such  plans have been frustrated.

“In this fight, citizens must understand that, we must never compromise on security, otherwise everyone’s security will be compromised. This is a situation that cannot be over emphasized for us to live in safety and security.

“Meanwhile, the military is doing what is needed at this time. We force the terrorist to pay a price for every act of aggression against citizens of this country. We recognise and have included this as part of our strategy to win the war.

“Overall, we have no choice but to fight for the safety and security of our citizens. We also fight to safeguard our nation and preserve our way of life as a people. For us a force, Defence is the essence of what we do as an armed forces. Accordingly, we would defeat the terrorists on the battlefield and help our nation flourish again.”

Supreme Court Judgement: LGA Autonomy, a significant  milestone in grassroot Development- Matawalle

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourble Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON has applauded the Supreme court judgement on Local Government Autonomy, describing it as a significant milestone in promoting grassroot development, good governance, and democratic decentralization in Nigeria.

According to a press release signed on the 12th of July, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director (Information and Public Relations), the Minister expressed his support for the Supreme Court’s decision to grant autonomy to local governments in the country. He applauded the seven-justice panel of the apex court in the judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, that ruled that the 774 local government councils in the country should independently manage their own funds.

According to Matawalle,
the verdict will enable Local Governments to make decisions and take actions without needing approval from State Governments adding that local governments can now manage their finances, collect revenues, and allocate resources without state government interference. “This will boost their independence and direct accountability to the electorates. They can now focus on delivering services and development projects that will lead to better governance and accountability,” he said.

Furthermore, the Minister said that henceforth, grassroot development would be enhanced by this decision.
Local governments can now prioritize projects and programs that benefit their communities thereby promoting grassroots development.” Equally the local Government should be able to solve some security challenges in their locality” .

“It will also reduce political interference and urbanization,State governments can no longer influence local government decisions and this will  promote local autonomy,” he emphasized.

The Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for providing the enabling environment for the historic judgement that will empower local government leaders to take charge of their territories, making them more responsible and accountable.

“This will also Improve service delivery. The local governments can now focus on delivering essential services like healthcare, education, Sanitation and infrastructural development to the people without interference from State Government,” the Minister said.

Knowledge Acquisition Vital for Governance- Says RMAFC Chairman

Knowledge Acquisition Vital for Governance- Says RMAFC Chairman

By Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammed Bello Shehu, has urged Nigerians to actively seek knowledge about the operations of government agencies to foster a better understanding of governance.

Shehu conveyed this message while addressing students from Igbinedion University Okada, Benin City, during their excursion to the Commission.

Represented by Hajia Salamatu Muhammed Bala, a board member from Adamawa state, Shehu praised the students’ initiative to learn about the Commission’s activities.

“It is crucial to understand what revenue mobilisation does on behalf of the country.
The Commission’s primary role is to monitor the funds entering the federation account, understand their sources, and track their allocation.” He said

Shehu, in a statement signed by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Maryam Umar Yusuf, assured the students that the Commission was pleased to host them and committed to providing comprehensive insights into its functions.

“We are delighted to share our experiences with you. Such engagements promote a shared purpose, leading to a better Nigeria,” he said.

Professor Madu Magnus Emeka, leading the delegation, highlighted the excursion’s aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in public finance.

“This visit is part of our university’s effort to provide practical experiences that complement classroom learning,” Emeka noted.

She added that Interacting with agencies like the RMAFC enhances the students’ understanding of the real-world application of their studies.”

During the visit, key directors of the Commission, including Mrs. Udodirim Okwongu of Inland Revenue, Mr. Peter Nyabiri of Gas and Investment, Dr. Rosetta Iyere of PRS, and Mr. Ambrose Akhilome, Deputy Director of Fiscal Efficiency, provided detailed briefings on the Commission’s operations.

Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of Information and Public Relations, concluded the session by reiterating the importance of such educational visits in fostering informed citizenship and effective governance.

By Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammed Bello Shehu, has urged Nigerians to actively seek knowledge about the operations of government agencies to foster a better understanding of governance.

Shehu conveyed this message while addressing students from Igbinedion University Okada, Benin City, during their excursion to the Commission.

Represented by Hajia Salamatu Muhammed Bala, a board member from Adamawa state, Shehu praised the students’ initiative to learn about the Commission’s activities.

“It is crucial to understand what revenue mobilisation does on behalf of the country.
The Commission’s primary role is to monitor the funds entering the federation account, understand their sources, and track their allocation.” He said

Shehu assured the students that the Commission was pleased to host them and committed to providing comprehensive insights into its functions.

“We are delighted to share our experiences with you. Such engagements promote a shared purpose, leading to a better Nigeria,” he said.

Professor Madu Magnus Emeka, leading the delegation, highlighted the excursion’s aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in public finance.

“This visit is part of our university’s effort to provide practical experiences that complement classroom learning,” Emeka noted.

She added that Interacting with agencies like the RMAFC enhances the students’ understanding of the real-world application of their studies.”

During the visit, key directors of the Commission, including Mrs. Udodirim Okwongu of Inland Revenue, Mr. Peter Nyabiri of Gas and Investment, Dr. Rosetta Iyere of PRS, and Mr. Ambrose Akhilome, Deputy Director of Fiscal Efficiency, provided detailed briefings on the Commission’s operations.

The representative of the Chairman, Hajiya Salamatu Muhammed Bala, presenting a memorabilia to the leader of the delegation, Professor Madu Magnus Emeka, on behalf of the Commission .

CISLAC Urges Increased Budget for Persons with Disabilities to Promote Inclusivity

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to significantly increase the budget allocation for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the 2024 supplementary and 2025 budgets.

This increase is deemed essential to foster a more inclusive governance process and address the socio-economic challenges faced by PWDs.

The appeal was made in a recent statement by the Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani)

Rafsanjani highlighted the importance of equitable treatment for all members of society to ensure a functioning democracy.

He emphasized that the socio-economic and political inclusion of PWDs is crucial for good governance.

CISLAC Boss noted that while efforts have been made to address the challenges faced by PWDs, more needs to be done, particularly in increasing budgetary allocations.

“The current funds are insufficient to meet the needs of over 30 million Nigerians living with disabilities, leaving many without access to essential services such as education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and accessible infrastructure.
Despite the passage of the 2024 appropriation bill and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, implementation has been hampered by inadequate funding.” Said Rafsanjani

He urged the government to utilize contingency funds to increase the budget for PWDs.

CISLAC pointed out that PWDs face significant barriers, including limited access to education, high unemployment rates, and inadequate healthcare facilities. These challenges hinder their full participation in society and contribute to social exclusion and discrimination.

CISLAC provided several recommendations to the government and they include:

Increase Budget for Disability-Inclusive Programs: Demonstrate a commitment to the rights and well-being of PWDs by boosting funding for relevant programs.

Enhance Education for PWDs: Invest in special education programs, vocational training, and inclusive schools to equip PWDs with necessary skills.

Improve Healthcare Services: Allocate funds for accessible healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, assistive devices, and specialized medical care for PWDs.

Promote Employment and Economic Empowerment: Implement policies that promote employment opportunities for PWDs, support entrepreneurship, and enforce anti-discrimination laws in the workplace.

Develop Accessible Infrastructure: Increase budget allocation for building accessible public infrastructure, including government buildings, hospitals, transportation systems, and communication technologies.

CISLAC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of PWDs and called on all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, civil society, media, and various groups, to promote an inclusive society where every Nigerian, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to national development.

Federal Ministry of Youth Development Announces Plans for 2024 World Youth Skills Day Commemoration

By Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has finalized arrangements to commemorate the 2024 World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) on Tuesday, 16th July 2024.

This annual event aligns with the United Nations General Assembly’s declaration for all member states to observe WYSD on 15th July each year.

The theme for this year’s event is “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” emphasizing the importance of equipping young people with the necessary skills for employment and entrepreneurship. It also addresses the challenges of skills acquisition among the youth.

The event will be held in collaboration with various stakeholders in youth employment and empowerment.

The commemoration aims to raise awareness about the crucial role of skills development in fostering peace and driving sustainable development, particularly in today’s ever-changing job market. It also provides an opportunity for United Nations member states to prioritize and invest in youth skills development initiatives.

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development reiterated its commitment to leveraging the occasion to inspire positive change and advocate for sustainable policies and programs that prioritize youth skills for peace and development.

“All stakeholders, including government bodies, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and youth representatives, are expected to partake in this important annual event.” Said the Ministry

Bridging the Gap in Health Care: iDoctorAccess by OneBarrow International

By Bilkisu Adejoh

In a world where health care fragmentation often leads to disparities in patient care, OneBarrow International is making strides to address this issue.

As a leader in corporate social responsibility, environmental social governance, and health equity, the organization has launched a groundbreaking platform: iDoctorAccess.

In an interview, the CEO of OneBarrow International, Mr. Yemi Ajao, expressed that iDoctorAccess is designed to seamlessly connect patients with health care providers, effectively addressing the urgent need to bridge gaps in health care services.

Ajao stated that the innovative platform offers numerous benefits for both patients and providers, ensuring a more integrated and efficient health care experience.

The idoctoraccess Platform

He highlighted that iDoctorAccess provides personalized onboarding sessions for providers to ensure they can effectively utilize the platform. He added that OneBarrow International’s local outreach efforts aim to raise awareness about iDoctorAccess, helping communities connect with essential health care resources.

Mr. Ajao emphasized that the platform ensures ongoing support for providers to address any issues that may arise, facilitating smooth and effective use.

“Frequent check-ins with providers help maintain a high standard of care and service. iDoctorAccess also verifies and validates provider credentials, assuring patients of the quality and reliability of the health care professionals they connect with. Providers benefit from efficient practice management through iDoctorAccess, including scheduling and patient communications,” he said.

He added that OneBarrow International is at the forefront of a movement to make health care more accessible and equitable for all.

Mr. Ajao reiterated the organization’s commitment to health equity and social responsibility, as demonstrated through the iDoctorAccess initiative, promising a brighter future where health care is accessible to everyone, regardless of geographical or economic barriers.

IPMAN Commends NSCDC Boss for remarkable leadership, seeks stronger collaborations to combat oil theft

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Independent Petroleum Marketers (IPMAN) has commended the visionary leadership of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Commandant General; Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi mni, OFR who was also lauded for the visible transformation and remarkable achievements of the Corps within 3years in office.

According to a press release signed on the 8th of July, 2024 by Csc Babawale Afolabi National Public Relations Officer
NSCDC National Headquarters Abuja, Dr Audi hosted the IPMAN National President Alhaji Abubakar Maigandi Shettima and his Executives at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja during a courtesy call premised on the need to establish a vibrant collaboration aimed at combating pipeline vandalism, smuggling and adulteration of petroleum products and oil theft across board.

“Your visionary leadership as the CG of the NSCDC has continued to transform the Corps into a robust, efficient and one of the modern security institutions in Nigeria”

“This leadership instinct has been noticed both locally and in the international terrain. There are living testimonies attesting to the giant strides and remarkable achievements of the NSCDC especially in discharging the statutory mandate”.

“The Agro Rangers Squad, Special Female Squad, CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, Antivandal Squad, Mining Marshall and other special forces are doing greatly well in safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure, fighting illegal dealings in petroleum products, illegal mining activities, pipeline vandalism, abduction and kidnapping of school children amongst others”.

“All these and many other reasons have informed our visit to you with the delight to strengthen collaborations between IPMAN and NSCDC because our passionate goal is that Nigeria would upscale her crude oil production most especially for local consumption’.

The NSCDC Boss gladly expressed the readiness of the Corps to partner with reputable organizations and institutions that have passion for the security of lives and protection of government facilities to boost the Nation’s economy and enhance its security architecture.

He noted that the nation relies on the mainstay of the economy which is Oil. He further relayed that though the government has made remarkable efforts to diversify into other sectors, the richest part of the nation’s economy hinges on Crude oil.

The CG however set the record straight by naming specific exploits made by the Corps in the discharge of its mandate stating that over 450 illegal bunkering sites and local refineries have been dismantled while over 300 oil thieves and their sponsors have been arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.

“There is an emerging trend of mode of conveyance called “Cotonou Boat” which can contain about 150 drums. If you multiply that number by five to six Cotonou Boats caught with stolen crude oil: you would see how much is siphoned per time”.

“Facing court judgment are suspects arrested for pipeline vandalism and illegal dealings in petroleum products while others were caught after they already vandalized an oil well head tap into in and siphoned crude loaded in tankers with the of transporting to would-be buyers.

“We have also arrested a suspect who paved the way through the sea, punctured the Pipeline, and connected pipes through the valve directly to his residence where about 3 Trucks are loaded daily; these are reasons we should consciously make concerted efforts to salvage the nation’s economy from ruthless saboteurs”.

The Commandant General further appreciated the bold step taken by the IPMAN executives and assured them of stronger collaboration while seeking credible intelligence and actionable information which he affirmed would be treated with utmost confidentiality and secrecy.