Tinubu hails the Nigerian Army as most Patriotic, selfless

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has praised the Nigerian Army as one of the most patriotic and selfless elements of the nation, noting that its personnel have made immense sacrifices to ensure the country’s peace and security.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director ( Information and Public Relations) on monday, he disclosed that Mr. President who was represented by the Honourble Minister of Defence, H E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni stated this during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos , Plateau State.

Mr.  President commended the Army’s efforts in addressing the nation’s security challenges, stating that the institution has risen to the challenge to keep Nigeria safe.

“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our Army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I was toId that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brainstorming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges,” he said.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a well-equipped and professional army, announcing approved measures to enhance the Army’s combat efficiency, including the payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and the procurement of attack helicopters and combat enablers.

He emphasized the need for innovation, proactivity, and jointness among security agencies to address the evolving security landscape.

“I encourage you to continue to work closely with your sister services, other security agencies as well as your fellow countrymen and women. There is no doubt that you represent the pride of the nation; an institution with history;an institution that has never failed Nigeria,” he stated.

The President said he felt proud that judging from the well organized and excellent parade and the display  made at  the Army Day Celebration, he was fully convinced that the Nigerian Military had justified the trust reposed on it to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

The event was attended by top government officials and military dignitaries, including the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and other top Government functionaries.

Nigerian Armed Forces Reports Significant Progress in Ongoing Military Operations

Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have made substantial gains in their ongoing military operations across various regions, according to the latest report by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.

Buba disclosed that over 750 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their family members surrendered, while troops arrested 13 suspected collaborators and gunrunners.

He noted that the Troops neutralised 64 terrorists and recovered an extensive cache of weapons and ammunition, including 4 PKT guns and 19 AK-47 rifles.

He noted that multiple ambushes and offensive operations resulted in the rescue of 29 kidnapped hostages and the discovery and neutralization of several IEDs.

In Operation Safe Haven (North Central), he disclosed that Troops neutralised 13 insurgents and arrested 51 violent extremists, including armed robbers and cultists.

While disclosing that 30 kidnapped hostages were successfully rescued in various operations, The Armed Forces added they recovered items including one AK-47 rifle, 4 fabricated rifles, and 100 rounds of ammunition.

It was further disclosed that Troops conducted arrest operations, offensive maneuver and anti-kidnapping efforts, neutralising 12 terrorists and rescuing 12 kidnapped hostages.

Also, 13 violent extremists were arrested, with notable recoveries of weapons including one AK-47 rifle and 11 rounds of ammunition.

FG Inaugurates National Hydrographic Governing Council

By Emmanuel Daudu

In a significant advancement for Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has inaugurated the Governing Council of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA).

This move is seen as a major milestone aimed at enhancing the country’s hydrographic capabilities and ensuring the efficient management of its waterways.

In a press release signed on July 4, 2024, by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director of Information and Public Relations, it was outlined that the NHA is tasked with hydrographic surveying and nautical charting. This provides critical data for maritime navigation, national defence, and a variety of marine activities.

The establishment of the Governing Council is a key initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aiming to improve the management and regulation of Nigeria’s water resources.

Dr. Matawalle highlighted the importance of the Council, which comprises key stakeholders from various ministries and agencies.

The Council will provide strategic oversight and ensure that Nigeria’s hydrographic activities align with global best practices, supporting the nation’s economic, social, and environmental development goals.

“This alignment is crucial for supporting the country’s economic, social, and environmental development goals,” stated Dr. Matawalle. “Today’s inauguration demonstrates our commitment to fostering knowledge, expertise, and resources to address the complex challenges facing our nation’s water sector and unlock its vast potential.”

The Council has already approved several key initiatives, including acquiring a temporary headquarters, employing civilian staff, and nominating three ex-officio members, subject to presidential approval.

Dr. Matawalle further emphasized that the new board’s inauguration marks a significant step toward advancing Nigeria’s hydrographic and maritime capabilities and underscores the government’s commitment to effectively managing the nation’s hydrographic resources.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, echoed the Minister’s sentiments.

“The establishment of this Council is a pivotal step towards enhancing our national hydrographic infrastructure and ensuring sustainable management of our marine resources,” he said.

The Governing Council is chaired by the Minister of State for Defence and includes the Ministers of Transportation, Justice, and Finance, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Surveyor General of the Federation, three ex-officio members, and the Hydrographer of the Federation, who serves as the Secretary of the board.

This newly formed Council is expected to drive significant improvements in Nigeria’s hydrographic sector, reflecting the nation’s ongoing efforts to optimize its marine and waterway resources.

TOPPY DE AUTOS Boss Opeyemi to be Decorated as CONYSSA Ambassador

The CEO/Director of Toppy De Autos, Bello Oluwasina Opeyemi has been recognized and listed for an award by the Coalition of Nigeria Youth on Security and Safety Affairs(CONYSSA), as an Icon of Security Ambassador 2024. This award is to be physically presented to him in the CONYSSA forthcoming MULTI-STAKEHOLDERS SUMMIT ON CRIME REDUCTION AND PREVENTION, scheduled to take place in Lagos State.

Opeyemi’s recognition for this prestigious award is due to his relentless security advocacies and participation in ensuring the safety and security of all within his reach and community.

Disclosing this to the media on Monday in Abuja, the Director General, Amb. Mario Ade Emmanuel stated that Bello Oluwasina Opeyemi’s nomination for the prestigious award is meritorious, going by his landmark engagement in security-related projects, programs and initiatives to ensure a peaceful coexistence on land.

Opeyemi, who is also a business entrepreneur, is the CEO/Director of Toppy. He has partnered with various Security Organizations and pioneered strategic measures taken to curb insecurities in his community.

Through his humanitarian services engaged a lot of youths by supporting them in their careers to be successful. Paid students school and scholarship to some few others.

Nigeria’s struggle with soaring insecurities is becoming alarming, hence, to address these complex and sensitive issues as well as profer a lasting solution is a driving point for this great awardee.

Individuals like Opeyemi continue to be significant contributors in tackling these challenges head-on to ensure a safe and secure society for all through such activities as checking out on young ones who need help.

As a strong advocate of security, Opeyemi believes that the cumulative effects of insecurity if not properly addressed, will not only affect the victims but will have devastating consequences on every citizen and the society at large. These guiding principles have always geared Opeyemi’s selfless services in improving security consciousness and promoting lasting peace and a serene society for all.

Birthday Anniversary: Ayodele, High Prince Tukur,Global Online Media and others Congratulates VC CUICI, USA

****As Founder/Global Executive Chairman Of VisionAfric, Dr. Favour .O. Ayodele Prays For UNESCO Laureate.

Publishers of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media Describes UNESCO Laureate As A Change-Maker

Former 2023 Presidential Aspirant under the platform of African Democratic Party (ADC) and Founder/ Global Executive Chairman, VisionAfric, Dr. Ayo .O. Ayodele, High Prince Muhammad Tukur Lawal Saleh PhD in view has Congratulated UNESCO Laureate and Vice Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as he today marks his birthday anniversary celebration in grand-style.

The media learnt this today being Sunday, July 7, 2024 in a press statement made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba Delta State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Global Online Media: Publishers of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media describes UNESCO Laureate as a change-maker.

In a release today by the global media group’s Director of Media, Ms Mercy Okonkwo wishes Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu happy, glorious and prosperous Birthday celebration as group urges him on more support, mentorship to Nigerian, African & global Youths development for a better society.

The management of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media then prays for long life, God’s gracious grace, good health and prosperity to be upon UNESCO Laureate as he today marks his auspicious Birthday Anniversary in grand-style in Nigeria.

Ayodele, a former 2023 president aspirant & a seasoned development expert in a release today while hailing the VC of Crown University described the world acclaimed universities Research Professor as a man with good heart who has the habit of promoting others; a global ICON par excellence as Ayodele wishes him more glorious years ahead.

The statement by Dr. Favour .O. Ayodele reads in parts: “I join the world leaders to celebrate and wish His Excellency, UNESCO Laureate, World Acclaimed Distinguished Prof. Emeritus on merit, honored, and ranked Sir Bashiru Aremu Post-Doctoral E-Business, Grand PhD, Post Doc., D.Sc., Ph.D., B.Sc., B. Tech., IBD, FIBTMN,FATIICS, MACM, MCSTA, MSTAN, Snr. MIACSIT, FIASR, C.itp, MCPN, KOJ, KOGC, KOGHL FCIEMA, MNDKOJC, CEMA, FBCS, beautiful birthday”.

“I pray Almighty God continues to extend His gracious grace unto you. You are a man with a beautiful heart who seeks and promotes the good of others; a world Icon par excellence. More beautiful years ahead without stress but strength with a sound mind. Once again, happy Birthday Sir”! Dr. O Favour AYODELE, Former-Presidential Aspirant, 2023, Founder & Global Executive Chairman, VisionAfric stated.

United Against Fire Hazards: NIHA and Federal Fire Service Partner to Strengthen Fire Prevention and Response in Nigeria”

Abuja, Nigeria – In a bid to combat the recurring fire outbreaks plaguing Nigeria, the Nigerian Humanitarian Action (NIHA) has joined forces with the Federal Fire Service for the Nigeria Fire Prevention Week and Expo, as well as its International Flagship Programme in the United States.

Nigeria’s fire service received a significant allocation of 51.74 billion naira in 2023, yet recent fire incidents have raised concerns about the service’s effectiveness. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The NIHA-Federal Fire Service collaboration seeks to enhance fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This partnership is a crucial step towards mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.

Dr Kletsaint Akor, Chairman of NIHA and proponents council of Nigeria Fire Prevention week, the joint effort, NIHA and the Federal Fire will bolster fire safety management across the country, thereby reducing property damage and loss of life.

This partnership is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians, He said

According to Dr. Akor, Despite significant allocations to the Federal Fire Service, the situation has shown little improvement in 2023, with Lagos State Fire Service reporting 1,642 fire incidents between January and June, resulting in 42 fatalities.

The crisis has continued into 2024, with several devastating fire incidents reported across the country. On January 17, a massive fire destroyed the timber section of the Panteka market in Kaduna, resulting in significant losses. Other incidents include a building fire at Tudun Wada Quarters in Kano, which caused seven casualties due to smoke inhalation, and a fire at Horo Eastern by-pass depot, resulting in one fatality.

The alarming rate of fire incidents in Nigeria, particularly during the dry season from November to March, has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Federal Fire Service, despite receiving 51.74 billion naira in 2023. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to fund the Federal Fire Service adequately and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The partnership will also strengthen fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This collaboration is crucial in mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.

Nigeria SOE partners UK/German Group, set to build 300,000 Homes across Nigeria

The housing initiative of the Federal Government Social Intervention Program has received a huge support from the United Kingdom and Germany as it recently birthed a collaboration to provide affordable housing by the duo of Family Homes Funds Limited in Nigeria and the Argisol Group operated in Germany and United Kingdom.

The agreement is to promote sustainable and energy-efficient homes that reduce GHGE . The multinational agreement is expected to provide 30,000 Homes over 5 years across Nigeriam. The agreement will contribute to bridging the housing gap in Nigeria.

The deal was sealed in Abuja recently as an MOU with the Family Homes Funds Limited was signed to broadly outline the principal terms and conditions under which the two corporations would collaborate under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (EPC+F) partnership framework to build 30,000 units of mix-income affordable housing for the benefit of Nigerians across the country utilizing the ARGISOL Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) Buildings Systems over a period of five (5) years.

Unlike many of its competitors, Argisol Building Systems makes it possible to construct energy-efficient and sustainable buildings that significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Backed by the power of the German Argisol Technology – the World’s Leading Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) building system – Argisol has supported and promoted sustainable building practices with a focus on energy efficiency and GHG emission reduction since 1982, in conformity with UNEP’s Sustainable Buildings and Climate Initiative (SBCI) and the IFC’s Green Buildings Market Transformation Program (GBMTP).

Registered in 2017 and commencing operations in 2018, Family Homes Funds is Sub-Sahara Africa’s largest housing fund focused on providing affordable homes for Nigerians on low income. It is a social housing initiative promoted by the Federal Government of Nigeria as part of its Social Intervention Programme with initial shareholding by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

Homes to be built will be designed to appeal to a broad range of homeowners across all income groups, including, public servants and those employed in the private sector as well as self-employed entrepreneurs.

“We are thrilled to introduce Argisol Homes to the Nigerian Market,” said the company’s UK Chairman, Joseph Ejim. “We believe that our Homes offer a much more energy efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional hollow concrete block or brick buildings as the cost saving achieved during construction continues throughout the lifespan of the building in the continuous savings from energy costs.”

According to Mr Giles Catchpole, Executive Director, Argisol UK, “Africa is due for the right modern method of construction that would create homes that are stronger than conventional builds, Fire resistant, Roth and mold proof, a system that cuts down on reinforcement by up to 60% and allows for construction to be done in one-third of the time it takes to build with traditional methods, Argisol is that and much morel”

Argisol will now build its first Nigerian Factory capable of producing its building systems for up to 15,000 homes a year on its 2-hectare plot of land at the Abuja Technology Village.

The company which boasts of the leading ICF technology in the world today has an exclusivity pact with Family Homes funds for the Nigerian Market. The company is however present in Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa where it is at various stages of deployment at the moment.

“We’re excited about the potential for building our higher quality, Energy efficient homes across Nigeria and becoming a major player in the Nigerian Housing market,” added Dr.Aliyu Ibrahim a Director of Argisol Building Systems ATV FZE the Nigerian subsidiary of the Argisol Group. “Our goal is to provide Home buyers with homes that deliver the comfort, spacious living, and safety they need to thrive in their daily pursuits”

The Argisol launch in the Nigerian Market is expected to generate significant interest among Builders, Real estate developers Home buyers, and other industry insiders alike, as the companies look to take on the challenge of helping bridge Nigeria’s housing Gap currently estimated at over 20 Million Homes.

Security Monitor

Ministry of Youth to Collaborate with Tony Elumelu Foundation to Boost Skills and Foster Entrepreneurship

By Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to enhance skill acquisition and promote entrepreneurship among young Nigerians, the Ministry of Youth Development has announced a collaboration with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF).

This announcement was made by the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, during a meeting with TEF’s management team led by CEO Ms. Somachi Chris-Asoluka at the Foundation’s office in Lagos.

Mr. Olawande highlighted that the collaboration would include various training programs, mentorship initiatives, and access to critical resources designed to empower young people to become successful entrepreneurs and professionals.

Emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships, the Minister noted that collaborative efforts yield better and faster results.

“Just yesterday at the Lagos State Employment Summit, I emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors. Today, I am here to put those words into action by discussing how we can partner to improve the prospects of young people,” said Olawande.

He praised the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s impact over the years in creating jobs and reducing poverty through their entrepreneurship programs, which have enabled many young Nigerians and Africans to become employers.

Ms. Chris-Asoluka responded positively, expressing her excitement about the Ministry’s initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of grassroots youth.

She applauded the Minister’s efforts to engage with young people and emphasized the importance of listening to their needs and preferences to provide effective support.

“I am genuinely impressed by your dedicated efforts to engage with young people. Providing them with the opportunity to express their needs and preferences is essential in ensuring effective support,” Ms. Chris-Asoluka stated.

The discussion also covered potential areas of collaboration, with Ms. Chris-Asoluka pledging TEF’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) project and the Corpreneur Support Initiative of the Youth Ministry.

She highlighted that this commitment reflects a shared vision to empower and uplift the youth through collaborative efforts.

The partnership between the Ministry of Youth Development and the Tony Elumelu Foundation marks a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and skill development among Nigeria’s youth, promising a brighter future for the country’s next generation of leaders.

GMOs Are Safe, Nigeria’s Agricultural Research System Insists

…Scientific Coalition Rebuts Anti-GMO Campaigns, Reaffirms Safety of Genetically Modified Crops

    Abuja – In a unified stance, Nigeria’s top agricultural research bodies have declared genetically modified organisms (GMOs) safe, countering a recent wave of anti-GMO campaigns. The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), backed by key agencies like the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA) and the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), asserts that GMOs pose no harm to humans, animals, or the environment.

    The coalition, including the National Agricultural Seed Council, National Agricultural Quarantine Service, and Sheda Science and Technology Complex, emphasized that the safety and benefits of genetically modified crops are well-established. This collective position was announced in response to escalating media campaigns against GM technology in Nigeria, which the group criticized for attempting to undermine local advancements and expertise.

    Leading the charge, ARCN Executive Secretary Prof. Garuba Sharubutu highlighted the council’s mandate to advise the Federal Government on agricultural research and biotechnology applications. “Our research institutes focus on genetic improvements of staple and cash crops, livestock, and fisheries,” Sharubutu stated. “Biotechnology offers novel ways to enhance crop resilience and productivity, crucial for food security amidst climate challenges.”

    Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General of NABRDA, addressed the controversy sparked by the introduction of Tela Maize. He acknowledged the public’s fear and skepticism fueled by misinformation. “Our goal is to dispel myths and educate the nation on the proven safety and advantages of GMOs,” Mustapha explained, citing global success stories from the USA, Europe, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.

    Advocating for the transformative potential of GMOs, Mustapha emphasized their role in addressing food scarcity, malnutrition, and environmental sustainability. “Through genetic engineering, Nigerian scientists have developed pest-resistant, disease-tolerant, and climate-resilient crops like Bt Cowpea, Bt Cotton, and Tela Maize,” he said. These innovations promise a secure food supply for future generations.

    Dr. Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, Director General of NBMA, reiterated the agency’s commitment to rigorous GMO regulation. “NBMA enforces strict standards and conducts thorough risk assessments to ensure the safety of GMOs in Nigeria,” she noted. This process involves evaluating potential health and environmental risks, including allergenicity and toxicity, with input from scientific experts.

    Public engagement is a cornerstone of NBMA’s approach. “We actively involve stakeholders in biosafety discussions, holding consultations and workshops to address concerns transparently,” Asagbra said. This dialogue helps dispel misconceptions and fosters informed public opinion on GMO safety.

    Dr. Kahild Ishiak, Acting Director General of the National Agricultural Seeds Council, debunked myths about GMO seed viability. “Seeds from Nigerian-bred GM materials can be replanted, similar to conventional seeds,” he clarified. However, for optimal yields, farmers are advised to purchase new seeds annually.

    Architect Kabiru Ibrahim, President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), supported GMOs from a practical standpoint. “GMOs have improved farmers’ earnings and productivity,” he said. “The allegations made by anti-GMO activists are unfounded.”

    This robust defense of GMOs from Nigeria’s leading agricultural institutions underscores a commitment to leveraging biotechnology for sustainable agricultural development. As the debate continues, the coalition’s message is clear: embracing GMOs is vital for Nigeria’s food security and economic prosperity.

    Minister of State for Youth Development Advocates for Job Creation Using Local Resources

    By Maryam Aminu

    The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has  emphasized the potential of local resources in job creation.

    Olawande made the call during his address at the third Lagos State Employment Summit held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.

    The Minister urged government officials, community leaders, and business owners to collaborate in harnessing local community resources to create meaningful employment opportunities.

    He highlighted the abundant natural, cultural, and human resources available across Nigeria’s local communities, advocating for strategic utilization to drive economic growth.

    “There is no way the government alone can achieve the difficult task of creating employment for our increasing youth population. Similarly, the private sector cannot do it alone either. Therefore, there is a need for deeper and deliberate collaboration to harmonize resources and human capital to deliver the much-needed jobs,” Olawande stated.

    The Minister underscored the comparative advantages present in each local government area, suggesting that targeted collaboration among government agencies, private sector organizations, and educational institutions is essential for maximizing these local strengths.

    The summit brought together key stakeholders to explore sustainable economic growth strategies

    Participants at the summit commended Olawande’s initiatives, particularly his “one youth, two skills” program, which aims to re-skill the youth for the evolving job market.

    Organized by the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), the event saw attendance from notable dignitaries, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, and GTB Founder Fola Adeola.

    The summit served as a platform for discussing public-private collaboration strategies to enhance job creation.