₦airaland Forum

A member of the National Youth Service Corps, Ihenyen Ehinome Joy (AD/20B/1932), serving in Adamawa State, has converted an abandoned building to a Clinic in Kpogno Community, a remote village in Girei LGA of Adamawa State.


The idea of the Clinic came up when the corps member was participating as an enumeration officer in the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) which entailed corps members touring remote villages of the state to enumerate and register Primary School pupils for the school feeding Programme.
While registering the pupils in this village (Kpogno), Joy observed that several people, particularly the children and the elderly, were not looking healthy enough. After some enquiries, she realized that the rural dwellers had to travel 14 kilometers away to access the nearest Clinic at another village called Borong.
She became disturbed and took it upon herself to change the ugly situation.
Using her orientation on NYSC's Community Development Service (CDS) Programme, she strategized, secured the necessary support and approval of the NYSC scheme, mobilized the relevant stakeholders, particularly the Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency and most importantly collaborated with the people of the community.
Seeing and trusted her as a messiah, the Community happily and willingly donated a four bedroom dilapidated building for the project in addition to other contributions towards its success.
And finally it is mission accomplished for Copa Joy!!! As the people of Kpogno Community no longer have to travel 14 kilometers to access simple medical care. Copa Joy, an indigene from far away Edo State, Ekpoma LGA, has come to their rescue through the human scheme, NYSC.
To ensure continued sustenance, management and viability of the health care centre, corps member Joy partnered with the State Primary Healthcare through the Girei LGA PHC which is to continue providing drugs, services as well as other medical consumables and non consumables.

NYSC Trust Fund: Unemployed Graduates Back Bill, Laud NASS, NYSC For Prioritizing Job Creation

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates in Nigeria (CUGN) has applauded the bill seeking to create the National Youth Service Corps Trust Fund, noting that it has the potential to generate one million jobs annually if passed into law.

The group, which made this known today at a press conference in Abuja, also said the Trust Fund will potentially address youth unemployment and enhance economic prosperity.

In his address, convener, Comrade Emmanuel Odenmalu, said the Trust Fund is a unique opportunity for the country to harness the potentials of its bustling youthful population for sustainable growth and development.

According to Odenmalu, if passed, the NYSC Trust Fund will provide “funding mediums for our teeming youths in the country in furtherance of its Skill and Entrepreneurship Development initiative for corp members while in service and after service”.

Comrade Odenmalu, therefore, thanked the NYSC for conceiving the idea, adding that it is a “function of strategic thoughts on rejigging our job creation drive towards socio-economic development”.

While commending the National Assembly for ensuring that the bill passed second reading, the group urged the legislators to ensure its speedy passage.

The youths, however, urged “Nigerians from all walks of life to lend their support to the proposed NYSC Trust Fund bill as the benefits are innumerable and of great concern to the teeming youths in the country”.

Read full statement below:

We welcome you all to this press conference in light of the recent happenings in the country regarding the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari administration in addressing youth unemployment in the country.

We must admit that these are indeed trying times in the country with the escalating number of graduates from our tertiary institutions without meaningful forms of employment. These figures keep rising daily, and it is expedient that concerted efforts must be made to address this societal challenge.

We must also admit that Nigerian youths are industrious and able to bring about innovations that translate to wealth creation. In our opinion, this has not been possible because successive governments did not create an enabling environment neither were policies introduced to address the national concern.

This consequently gave rise to more and more unemployed graduates roaming the streets searching for jobs that have remained elusive. The attendant implication is the resort to crime and other forms of criminality to make ends meet.

As an association, our joy knew no bounds when the National Youth Service Corps leadership proposed a Trust Fund to aim to provide funding mediums for our teeming youths in the country in furtherance of its Skill and Entrepreneurship Development initiative for corp members while in service and after service.

It is thus a statement of the fact that the NYSC Trust Fund, when passed into law, has the potential to create one million jobs annually. This is on the heels that universities and polytechnics admit close to 2 million students each academic year and produce about 600,000 graduates.

A cursory analysis of the number of graduates that passes through the NYSC scheme yearly and if a modest 300,000 of such graduates are equipped with skills and funds to startup businesses; the impact would be tremendous as the multiplier effect would be felt across the country.

It is instructive to state that we might not understand that once this number of agile population is left in limbo, the effect would also be felt across the country most negatively.

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates in Nigeria sees the NYSC Trust Fund as that unique opportunity for the country to harness the potentials of the bustling youthful population in the country into strength in our quest for sustainable growth and development.

The urgency of now requires that all hands be on deck to address the unemployment crisis in the country. And the unique offering proposed in the NYSC Trust Fund is a source of joy for the Coalition of Unemployed Graduates in Nigeria.

Our opinion is that the NYSC Trust Fund is long overdue. The benefits that would be derived would go a long way in addressing youth unemployment. It would also contribute a great deal to economic prosperity in the country.

We are using this medium to express our gratitude to the leadership of the National Youth Service Corp for proposing this brilliant initiative which, in our opinion, is a function of strategic thoughts on rejigging our job creation drive towards socio-economic development.

It must also be stated that the contributions to the national development of the youths would take centre stage as the country would record tangible innovations and businesses that would set the country on the path of greatness once again.

We must not fail to appreciate the members of the National Assembly in their laudable efforts in ensuring that the NYSC Trust Fund bill scaled second reading. The robust deliberations on the floor of the House of Representatives indeed give hope to the millions of youths that stand to benefit from this laudable initiative if passed into law.

We do not doubt the commitment of the National Assembly as the passing into law of the NYSC Trust Fund is a national concern that must be accorded the necessary urgency it deserves. We also wish to inform the members of the House of Representatives to be open-minded when it receives submission from well-meaning Nigerians at the public hearing of the bill due to the avalanche of positive reviews arising from the introduction of the bill in recent times.

We, therefore, call on Nigerians from all walks of life to lend their support to the proposed NYSC Trust Fund bill as the benefits are innumerable and of great concern to the teeming youths in the country.

As an organization, our support remains unflinching. We wish to state that this is indeed one of the best decisions by the Muhammadu Buhari administration in addressing youth unemployment in the country.

We remain optimistic that at the end of the day, the NYSC Trust Fund bill would receive the speedy attention that it deserves as it has been well received by the generality of Nigerians, especially parents and guardians that toiled day and night to ensure a better future for their children.

We once again commend all concerned stakeholders and make a passionate appeal to all and sundry to key into this game-changer in ensuring that Nigeria experiences a rebirth in our desire to translate the hopes and aspirations of our teeming youths into tangible realities.

We thank you all for your time and attention.

God bless.

By Rotimi Ola

The Justice Minister, Abubakar Malami, has been in the news of late. There have been scathing remarks on his personality in recent times. That the attacks have been sustained vigorously smacks of a sinister motive either to score a cheap political point or to cause a payback for some of the policies introduced by the Justice Ministry, especially the assets recovery initiative that has recorded tremendous success.

Therefore, it is not surprising that the Justice Minister has been in the news of late through a well-conceived effort at rubbishing his image, casting shadows on the gains recorded in assets recovery. This is understandable given the parlance that when you fight corruption, it fights back more vigorously.

I followed the events closely and concluded that to be able to stand firm in addressing some of the issues affecting our growth and development, such individuals must be prepared for fire and brimstone. Therefore the Abubakar Malami episode didn’t come to me as a surprise. However, his continuous push has continually impressed me despite the challenges encountered.

I must add that it takes courage to achieve what he has achieved so far. It also takes an individual that has elected to stand on the side of the truth to be still standing tall despite the barrage of attacks on his person.

Most times, I wonder what his staying power is. I am sad because of our disposition to issues in the country. We are quick to pull down even when we know that such would take the country back donkey years. We are also not mindful that for us to make progress as a country there are certain attributes we must jettison.

For Abubakar Malami, he is paying the price for standing by Nigeria. The price is heavy and indeed a great sacrifice that must be made when one imagines the recoveries that have been made so far, which is mind-boggling.

The Justice Minister has been outstanding in discharging his duties as the Chief Law Officer of the country. His avowed stance on protecting the spirit of the constitution has been remarkable. This has fetched him numerous accolades across the country and outside the country's shores.

Still, on the contentious assets recovery, one initiative that I found brilliant is the idea to establish an assets recovery management agency. Accordingly, the agency is expected to manage all recovered assets. What has been the practice was that the proceeds of crime were scattered all over and mainly in the hands of different and multiple agencies of government, inclusive of the Police, the Directorate of State Services, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, including the Ministry of Justice.

According to the Justice Minister, “what this law seeks to do is to move the fight against corruption to the next level; next level of transparency; next level of accountability and in essence, have in place an agency of government that is exclusively responsible for anything proceeds of crime.” If this is not brilliant, I don’t know what else to call it.

I am glad that Nigeria is blessed with an individual whose knowledge of the law is outstanding. I dare to say his appointment as Justice Minister is one of the best decisions of the Muhammadu Buhari administration. His commitment has been unflinching, as well as the emphasis on transparency and accountability.

It is thus my considered opinion that those that have elected to throw caution in the wind by sponsoring the smear campaign against him should have a rethink. Instead, they should channel their energies and resources into charitable enterprises that would benefit the ordinary citizens in the country.

I do not think the Justice Minister would succumb to the blackmail and intimidation. More as it seems a waste of time, issues must be placed in proper perspectives because the reason for the Justice Minister's attack is that it is no longer business as usual.

We need to be circumspect and be careful not to ruin whatever is left of this country. if the proceeds of crime that have been recovered so far do not give us a reason to believe in the country, at least those that have elected to stand by the country should be spared the trauma of character assassination.

I can only wonder if the Justice Minister had continued with the previous trend where everything goes. This country would have evaporated. The last time I checked, it was estimated that the Muhammadu Buhari administration, through concerted efforts, had recovered about 1 trillion naira of stolen funds and assets since 2015. All final forfeitures are being deployed in the Government’s special Infrastructure and Social Investment Programmes.

We must admit that these are no mean feat and the man behind the drive is the Justice Minister. Little wonder why he has been the subject of veracious attacks in recent times? Whether we like it or yes, one thing remains, which is the fact that Abubakar Malami has displayed an unalloyed commitment to the Nigerian cause.

I can go on non-stop on some other notable interventions by the Justice Ministry under Abubakar Malami, whose impact has been far-reaching in addressing most of the issues confronting us as a nation. He has been a nightmare to those who have corruptly themselves through the assets recovery initiative. He has ensured transparency in the conduct of government business. And the list goes on.

My advice to the Justice Minister is to continue to stand tall even in the face of adversaries. He should not lose sight of the goal. Those that have elected to be unreasonable should continue with the tirade. The interest of Nigeria comes first, and that is what Abubakar Malami has demonstrated so far.

Lest we forget, the race is not for the swift but brave hearts. I salute his courage, discipline and strength of character. These are indeed attributes of a leader.

Ola is a public affairs analyst based in Lagos.

As activities continue to gather towards 2023 general elections, some women from the South-East geopolitical zone, have thrown their weight behind Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari.
The group, under the aegis of Igbo Women Forum, boasted that they would do all within  its powers, to mobilise at least 25 million votes for Bello in the 2023 presidential election.
To prove their words, the group said it would be holding "a mother of all rallies in Abuja", to declare their support for the Governor of Kogi State.
A statement on Sunday by its President, Lady Uju Obi, revealed that, "among other qualities Governor Bello possesses, is his priority for the nation’s unity and security". 
Obi noted that, "unlike other aspirants, Alhaji Bello has shown the capacity to quell the rising tide of terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal vices across the nation. 
"Another trait that stands out about the Kogi State Governor is his national appeal as he is loved by most Nigerians - irrespective of religion, tribe and ethnicity. 
"This isn’t surprising, as Governor Bello has carried everyone along in his government, not minding the usual sentiments", Lady Obi said. 
She recalled that, despite being a devout Muslim, Christians flock the Governor, perhaps the reason he built a chaplain inside the government house. 
At 46, she also believed that Bello would represent a paradigm shift from the era of old, tired and seemingly sick rulers. 
She said, "Bello isn’t just a youth, he has proven his mettle at the highest level and will need little time to hit the ground running". 
The Igbo women, however, urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to forfeit the mooted idea of zoning its presidential ticket to the south. 
They said, in their zone (South-East), for instance, most of the aspirants are selfish and have not done as much for the masses, like Bello has done, especially, for women and youths. 
The group also vowed to rally round all the Igbo contestants, especially the delegates, to shun ethnic sentiment and support the best man for the job.
To them, Governor Bello is a God's sent and the only man who can take Nigeria to the promised land. 
The women also believed Governor Bello was the only person who could make the Igbos President of Nigeria in this current democratic dispensation.

By Michael Udeh

Suppose there is one bell that should constantly be ringing in Nigeria. In that case, it should be the National Open University Bell for the impact of the educational institution in Nigeria. I gave hope to those who never dreamt of acquiring degrees in their lifetimes. It is the first open and distant learning institution in the West African sub-region.

In Nigeria, attaining tertiary education seems to be outside the reach of some of these with the desire, and these individuals, one way or the other, have been forced to jettison the idea. But not anymore with the offerings by the National Open University of Nigeria through its flexible and affordable learning modules. I know of Emeka, Ayo, Aminu, and many others who have built a career through the National Open University of Nigeria. The interesting thing is that you can work and study simultaneously.

The National Open University indeed changed learning in Nigeria. It is estimated to be the only tertiary institution in Nigeria with the highest enrolled students. When the Open University system was conceptualized in 1983, nobody expressed confidence. Nobody wanted to be associated with the university. Because of this, there was a crisis of confidence in the university. By 25th April 1984, the government decided to suspend it.

In 2001, the government under former President Olusegun Obasanjo revisited it, and today its impact has been phenomenal. The dynamic nature of studying at NOUN cannot be overemphasized, as it has tailored its learning mode remotely without face-to-face contact with an instructor in a classroom.

The NOUN has made learning very easy and interesting .Students are free from the constraints of time and place compared to conventional universities. It offers increased access to quality education and skill development to students and those who are medically unfit to attend classes daily with no age barrier.

A unique nature of NOUN is that it is learner-centred; this means it has shifted from the conventional method of teaching and learning to employ other tools such as printed course readers, tutor-and computer-marked assignments, feedback systems and individualized counselling units to effective learning outcomes. This is brilliant.

It also runs a very flexible learning mode, where students can learn at their own pace. A student can defer a semester if they are facing financial constraints. A student can also reduce a semester's course load if they cannot handle all the courses at once. These are unique attributes.

Since its inception, NOUN's approach to learning has been to promote the ODL system of education, thus establishing study centres to allow every citizen to acquire education through technology-based learning, which the ODL mode provides.

As of the last count, there are 78 study centres spread across the country's six geo-political zones, offering over 750 courses and about 50 programmes. Graduates of the National Open University of Nigeria can now be mobilized for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and for NOUN law graduates to attend law school.
We must admit that open, and distance education plays a crucial role in human capital development in Nigeria. In particular, education and all education-oriented activities and investments are required to accumulate human capital. It creates an opportunity for a nation to develop its human capital, especially those who missed the chance to secure education earlier in their lives. It also creates an avenue for citizens to be educated, productive and creative and avails them of the opportunity to contribute their quota to the nation's development.
This is on the heels that education has shifted from the traditional form of education towards new teaching and learning methods through the explosion of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The continuous advances in information technology have enabled the realization of a more distributed structure of knowledge transfer through the development of e-education.
The emergence and proliferation of new information and communication technologies (ICT) had introduced an unstoppable revolution into education, particularly in teaching and learning. With the National Open University of Nigeria, e-education had added another dimension to the issue of access by removing distance from education and helping individuals who can to access education anywhere, anytime, at their own pace and any place.
One of the tangible achievements of the National Open University of Nigeria is that inmates in correctional centres across the country also have access to studying at the institution. As of the last count, no fewer than 3,000 prisoners serving different terms across the nation's prisons are currently studying at the National Open University of Nigeria.
For example, in 2021, eighteen inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Service studying with the National Open University of Nigeria Corrections’ Special Study Centers have graduated in various disciplines. In 2014, the best graduating student of NOUN was an inmate in Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Enugu, and the feat was repeated in 2018 by another inmate in the same Custodial Centre. And the story continues with several inmates pursuing undergraduate and graduate courses at the institution.
The technological innovations at the National Open University of Nigeria have been top-notch because students have been availed of quality education at their pace. This is exceptionally instructive, and the benefits of these are innumerable.
It is thus a statement of the fact that the contributions of the institution in the educational sector in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. It can be therefore said that the reality of underdevelopment in Africa is undeniable. The link between education and the level of economic development in any society has long been established. African countries remain underdeveloped due to a large percentage of illiterates and unskilled workforce within the adult population.
There is growing recognition that knowledge is the primary driver of development. Higher education, which aims to produce a higher level of skills and knowledge, is pivotal to any nation's socio-economic and technological development. We must recognize the lack of capacity in conventional universities to meet the growing demand for tertiary education.
Open and distance learning is considered as a way out of the problem. Against this backdrop, it has become abundantly clear that for university education to live up to its billing in the production of high-quality human resources, the government has to seriously consider exploiting other avenues of providing access to university education in addition to the face-to-face mode and called for a paradigm shift which will facilitate a steady mainstreaming of the open and distance learning mode as a strategy for increasing access.
Open and distance mode can provide knowledge and skills to all corners of the country, ‘reaching the unreached’ thereby enabling the country to realize Education for All goals. People no longer need to move to educational institutions to seek knowledge and expertise; these are packaged and brought to them through open and distance learning. Thus, The vision of the National Open University of Nigeria is to be regarded as the foremost university providing highly accessible and enhanced quality education anchored by social justice, equity, equality and national cohesion through a comprehensive reach that transcends all barriers.
NOUN's vision and mission depict the mandate of providing access and ensuring quality in the educational services rendered to the students. NOUN reflects a novel development in the provision of higher education in Nigeria. It is the first full-fledged University that operates in an exclusively open and distance-learning (ODL) mode of education and delivers its course materials via print in addition to information and communication technology (ICT).
In fulfilling its mandate as articulated in its vision and mission, NOUN has taken practical steps to promote equal educational opportunity through a comprehensive reach that transcends all barriers. It has provided education to reach the hitherto un-reached segment of the population, especially those denied access based on one social consideration or the other, including girls and women, the physically challenged, those in employment, those who have passed the age of admission into regular universities, married adolescent girls, girls and women who dropped out of school, prison inmates, ethnic minority groups as well as other disadvantaged people.
NOUN came to the rescue and allowed them to embark on courses of their choice within their vicinity and without contradicting any societal dictates. They are being trained and given the opportunity to contribute their quota to national development.
Education for all and elimination of adult illiteracy will most likely translate into more employment prospects and ultimately better quality of life for the people, which is the essence of national development. Therefore, reaching the unreached and marginalized in education is imperative for countries intent on bridging the development gap. These and many more are the contributions of the National Open University of Nigeria to the educational sector in Nigeria.


Udeh is an educationist and wrote this article from the United Kingdom.

The Coalition for Human Rights and Rule of Law, on Thursday, threw its weight behind the assets recovery drive of the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN).

The AGF had been in the media recently over an alleged award of "a multi billion naira assets recovery contract to a company and its lawyers secretly".

But the Coalition, in a statement signed by its President, Gabriel Agibi and made available to newsmen on Thursday, said the media report was being orchestrated by enemies of the Minister who are " agents of corruption" that did not want the Federal Government to recover assets.

"The consistency of the attacks indicates a sinister motive to cause a submission to the whims and caprices of a select few who are bent on subverting the judicial process in Nigeria in ways too numerous to mention.

"As stakeholders in the justice sector, we are tempted to believe that the stance of the AGF with regards to assets recovery has not gone down well with some individuals hence the puerile attempt at blackmail and intimidation", the group alleged.

The Coalition said it was aware that the asset recovery drive of the Federal Government had indeed "ruffled some feathers", hence the target of the AGF, whose responsibility it was to ensure the successful implementation of the asset recovery drive.

Read the full text below:

"The coalition of human rights and the rule of law is issuing this press statement in light of the well-orchestrated campaign of calumny ostensibly launched by agents of corruption to misrepresent the attorney general of the federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami.

The consistency of the attacks indicates a sinister motive to cause a submission to the whims and caprices of a select few who are bent on subverting the judicial process in Nigeria in ways too numerous to mention.

As stakeholders in the justice sector, we are tempted to believe that the stance of the AGF with regards to assets recovery has not gone down well with some individuals hence the puerile attempt at blackmail and intimidation.

It is an unfortunate episode in the annals of the country as to why some individuals who, for reasons best known to them, have arrogated certain powers and privileges. As such, they have carried on like mini gods by blackmailing those who have put the country's interest first.

We are aware that the asset recovery drive of the federal government had indeed ruffled some feathers, hence the target of the AGF, whose responsibility it is to ensure the successful implementation of the asset recovery drive of the federal government.

The Coalition for Human Rights and Rule of Law wishes to inform members of the general public of these attempts that have been targeted at the personality of the AGF through fictitious publications by some select media houses, as well as blogs and other information dissemination platforms.

The members of the unsuspecting general public are advised to ignore these publications as some select individuals sponsor them to blackmail and intimidate the AGF into submission by dumping the asset recovery efforts of the federal government.

We state in unequivocal terms that the assets recovery initiative of the federal government has received commendations both nationally and internationally. This much has been evident in the quantum of recoveries made so far through the display of transparency and accountability.

The Coalition for Human Rights and Rule of Law vehemently states that the attempt at jeopardizing the federal government's efforts towards the successful implementation/execution of its assets recovery initiative shall not be tolerated.

We consequently wish to bring to the attention of media houses of this nefarious plot by these individuals to rubbish the image of the AGF. It is our considered opinion that the offence of the AGF is ensuring that the process of asset recovery is in line with global best practices.

This stance has not gone down well with some select individuals who are afraid of the repercussion of their actions. As such, they have constituted themselves into clogs in the wheels of the country's progress.

The Coalition for Human Rights and Rule of Law wishes to use this medium to commend the federal government on its efforts at assets recovery. We also commend the attorney general and minister of justice for his commitment that has recorded tremendous results so far.

We urge him not to relent in the drive that has gathered momentum regardless of the attempts at blackmailing him into submission to their dictates that are not in the country's overall interest. We call on members of the general public to rally support for the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari administration towards assets recovery in the country.

It is indeed a collective enterprise that requires all hands to be on deck. Those behind the well-orchestrated attempts at blackmailing the attorney general and minister of justice are advised to desist from such despicable conduct in the country's interest of peace and tranquillity".

The Coalition of All Progressive Congress (APC) Women Groups, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to postpone indefinitely the National Convention of the party fixed for February, this year.

This was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Cecilia Ikechukwu and other members which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday.

According to the coalition, fixing the National Convention this February is akin to building a superstructure on unstable soil.

It said there are several unresolved contentious that are consequential but left unaddressed before progressing to other unsustainable phases.

"Your Excellency, currently the party has faction in 14 states, which is because the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) under His Excellency, Mai Malam Buni has done a good job in reconciling factions in other states and re-organization the party.

"The party is yet to recover from the attendant losses from elections that were ordinarily guaranteed in Rivers and Zamfara state during the 2019 General Elections.

"Instead of learning the hard lessons contained in those avoidable experiences, the State Governors and the colluding party leaders are rather adamant on repeating the show of shame on a national scale by fixing a date for the National Convention without first resolving the damaging issues on ground.

"As it was with Rivers and Zamfara States, there are legal implications for how the party is progressing with going into a national convention with all the issues surrounding the party.

"We fear the APC is now firmly placed to lose all the positions our members will context for, not at the polls but on legal technicality as was the case in those two states," the group stated.

Consequently, the women group appealed "that the convention be postponed indefinitely to allow the CEPC resolve these issues within the next three (3) days and come up with a comprehensive report on how to navigate the murky waters the APC currently finds itself.

"That the Abdullahi Adamu committee be disbanded immediately, and a new committee set up, since this committee has serially failed in its mandate.

"That Mr. President unites the APC stakeholders and lead them to counter the influence the cabals that want to destroy the party from within at all costs.

It is our firm belief that these steps, if urgently taken, can pull the APC from the brink, although the window for saving the party is fast closing. Please Mr. President, save the APC from implosion," the statement stated.

Postpone February convention, APC UK tells party's NEC



As the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) prepares for its national convention, the United Kingdom (UK) chapter has advised the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party to stay action.

Instead, the UK chapter advised that the party should consolidate on the successes of the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), and also win more grounds in reconciling aggrieved members.

APC had pinned its national convention for 26th February, 2022, after several efforts to unite various factions across state chapters.

But Dr. Philip Idaewor, Chairman of the
APC in United Kingdom, in a press statement on Tuesday, wants the NEC to shift the national convention to a later date.

"The Chapter urged APC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to immediately postpone the National Convention from the Saturday February 26 date for pending critical issues to be addressed, especially now that the reconciliation committee led by Senator Abdullahi Adamu has requested for one week extension to complete its work", the statement reads in part.

It said the UK Chapter had earlier weighed in on the matter some months ago, where it categorically urged the party to align with best practices in deciding the Convention date, which should be scheduled with the Convention to elect the party’s presidential flag bearer.

According to the statement, the proposition would ensure the highest participation of the members in the diaspora as they would not dissipate logistics for travelling to Nigeria twice for the same event.

APC UK Chapter called on the party’s NEC to summon courage and postpone the Convention in overall interest of all stakeholders to promote unity, harmony and cohesion within the party. It noted that rushing into a Convention within the space of the next three weeks would only further fracture the party.

According to the diaspora APC group, "reports from home (Nigeria) about how the APC has multiple factions in many of its state chapters do not project confidence that the party would have a smooth sail in the General Elections due next year. The logical thing is to allow the reconciliation committee to finish its assignment as there is no gain in progressing error".

It expressed worry that "APC stakeholders would have simply slaved for others to enjoy if the party holds the convention in February as it will merely be solidifying the rancorous situation that is present at state levels".

It said the APC UK is aware that such state level acrimony has cost the party elections in at least two states in the past and that a national loss is inevitable unless members of the NEC listen to party loyalists and save the soul of the party.

It noted that the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) as led by Governor Buni had performed creditably, which has left the APC UK wondering why the committee was not allowed more time to complete the good work it is doing.

"It has singularly brought reconciliation to several state chapters, and we are confident that he makes factional politics a thing of the past when his committee is given more time to restore sanity to the party", the statement added.

"We are worried that, because of the stage of our socio-political evolution, disaffection and disappointment would make those who are worth their salt to decamp from the party even before the National Convention holds. The signs are glaring that the APC cannot survive such large-scale defections.

"The party in the UK and other stakeholders are therefore calling and appealing on the NEC and the CECPC to harken to the voice of reason and postpone the convention while focusing on the much needed fence mending that will see the party to retaining power in 2023.

"The APC government of President Muhammadu Buhari has too much good things going for Nigeria and Nigerians that require continuity for which the party must retain power to continue building the Nigeria of our dreams", it stressed.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a lot of things to a lot of people. Some of his admirers have called him the Father of modern Lagos and some have regarded him as the nightmare of the present leading opposition party in the country, PDP. He has also enjoyed a number of slanderous names by opponents but one thing is for sure, he is someone who has mastered the game of politics. Whether you choose to refer to him as ASIWAJU or JAGABAN, majority of the populace know who you’re referring to. He is arguably the most popular politician from the south western region of the country right and among the most popular persons in the country today. Asiwaju understands politics and he knows it well which is why it is funny when certain articles try to discredit his personae by referring to him as less influential like the one written by Mebele Okugbo.
The author claimed that Tinubu was not instrumental in the election of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, which is a laughable statement in its entirety for several reasons. One of the reason being that President Buhari had contested 3 times and failed to clinch power till the merger majorly between Tinubu’s Action Congress of Nigeria and Buhari’s Congress for Progressive Change and part of the All Nigeria Peoples Party back in 2013. Buhari relied on the expertise of Tinubu who introduced his former cabinet member as the Vice-Presidential candidate which gave the party victory in 2015. How was his involvement not instrumental?
He also claimed that Tinubu is a result of media hype. There is a simple answer to that, Asiwaju left office of the Governor of Lagos State in 2007 right? Show me any of his peers who served between 1999 and 2007 that can either lay claim to as much influence as him politically today or list the amount of leaders that have been mentored or given an opportunity to serve as Asiwaju has done to so many leaders today including Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.
On the issue of Edo state election, Obaseki ran a smooth campaign using previous videos where former governor, Adams Oshiomhole had made certain comments about Pastor Ize-Iyamu who used to be in the PDP. It was a miscalculation but a fair one. If both Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu knew they would switch paties, things would have happened differently but that is the game of politics, no permanent friends or enemy, it’s a matter of interest. The election was in no way an indication that Asiwaju is less influential
Tinubu is not the only one who has shown interest in presidency but somehow he is the most talked about among the people eyeing the seat, it only tells you one thing, even his haters are admirers who are too engrossed in their hatred to admit it.
Asiwaju has a date with destiny in 2023.

Femi Akeusola
Member TSG Media Team

_...says few emperors can't dictate to majority over date_

More stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) have joined the clamour for the postponement of the ruling party's planned February 26 national convention.

As highlighted by other faithful, the APC Youth Development and Progressive Forum said some northern governors have hijacked the APC, pushing for a convention that could ultimately destroy the ruling party.

The group made its position known on Monday at a press conference in Abuja calling on its members and other party faithful to boycott the exercise.

It said a boycott is the "only way of saving the day now as it has become apparent that the cabal of some northern governors has shredded the last vestige of democracy around them to give reign to full-blown dictatorship in the APC".

In his address, Secretary-General, Hon. Tobias Ogbeh, said with a lingering factional crisis in over 16 states, the party is headed for destruction should it proceed with the convention.

Ogbeh added that mass defection and legal tussle awaits the party if the February 26th convention is not postponed.

The group, therefore, urged all loyal stakeholders to unite and agree on a genuine way forward, devoid of the destructive tendencies that this cabal has brought into the party

Read the full statement below:

Gentlemen of the press, thank you for joining us at such notice. Your presence here attests to your commitment to the Nigeria project and must say we are proud of the good work you are doing for the nation.

We crave your indulgence to immediately delve into the subject matter of today, which is the need to save Nigeria from spiralling out of control by addressing what is happening in the All Progressive Congress (APC). As the party that is in government, including holding the majority in the National Assembly and controlling more states of the Federation, the fate of Nigeria is tied to the stability of the APC.

As you are aware, like any other political party in this country, the APC is presently weathering its internal issues, which have been made worse by certain northern governors that have declared themselves emperors and absolute rulers that dictate what happens in the party.

The most recent dictatorial act from these overbearing governors is their imposition of a date for the National Convention of the APC, which they are touting to hold on February 26, 2022. It is a date they are tenuously holding onto even when it has been conclusively established that it flies in the face of logic, equity, and fair play. This is because these self-seeking elements have hijacked the party and are now insisting that a convention that is not in the interest of the party must take place on their appointed date.

We would not go into details of all that has been at play in the APC since these are already in the public domain. What is obvious is that these people want the party to fail to oversee the affairs of the party from their secret covens. Serious-minded people and lovers of the party cannot and will not be a party to that kangaroo national convention that they are planning to hold.

All reports available to stakeholders – political, strategic, logistics and security reports - now point to the fact that no convention can take place on February 26, 2022. Those that are peddling this phantom date have other plans as they are certainly not interested in the success of the convention they claim would be taking place on that date. In whose interest are the promoters of the February convention deriving their authority or inspiration knowing fully well that the party is not ripe now?

We want to draw the attention of Nigerians to the following:

With the lingering factional crisis in as many as 16 APC State chapters, even with the deployment of security on an industrial scale, there is no way of preventing the existing crisis from escalating. This implies that the promoters of the February National Convention are encouraging the staging of the event in the expectation of an outbreak of violence. Even when the security operatives can prevent violence at the National Convention, there is no way they can fan out to the 36 states – at least most of these states – prevent the post-convention violence that would be imported to the state chapters from the national event. The only way to prevent this is to postpone the national convention until thorny issues have been addressed.

Pundits and reputable national publications are already predicting massive defections if the National Convention goes ahead. This poses several risks. First is that there would be a contagion as the defecting APC members would snatch up tickets and roles that existing members of their new political parties have heavily invested in. That means within weeks of the convention and the resulting defection, all other promising political parties would be thrown into crisis.

Should the National Convention go ahead on February 26 as these people are planning, it would create a legal conundrum that could prove catastrophic for the nation. We do not want to contemplate the kind of constitutional crisis that would arise if the ruling party is thrown out of the 2023 General Elections based on its candidates being the end product of a contested convention. Nigeria, as we know it would be disrupted.

The gang of northern governors that are behind this twisted hijack of the APC need to be taught a lesson that they cannot package dictatorship in democratic garb and expect it to sell among right-thinking Nigerians. If they get away with this behaviour within the APC it is a matter of time because they give national spread to their irresponsible attitude and the entire country would then be at their mercy. This must not be allowed to happen.

After thoroughly reviewing the situation of the party and bearing in mind that the stability of Nigeria comes before party interest, the APC Youth Development and Progressive Forum hereby call on APC stakeholders and all lovers of democracy to boycott the February 26t APC National Convention. A boycott is the only way of saving the day now as it has become apparent that the cabal of some northern governors has shredded the last vestige of democracy around them to give reign to full-blown dictatorship in the APC.

In calling for this boycott, we hereby put the ruining cabal in the APC on notice that we will follow up with a legal challenge to invalidate whatever criminal outcome they procure from the event, which has already failed even before it held.

We urge all loyal stakeholders of the APC to unite and agree on a germanane way forward, devoid of the destructive tendencies that this cabal has brought into the party.

God bless Nigeria.

FORMER APC REPS MEMBERS MEET TO DISCUSS STATE OF THE PARTY, NATIONAL CONVENTION AND THE ROAD TO 2023


Former members of House of Representatives in the All Progressives Congress(APC) will Thursday, February 3rd, 2022 hold a Round Table/General Meeting in the nation’s capital, Abuja to discuss critical issues affecting the party.
A statement jointly signed by the Protem Chairman of the Forum, Hon Ibrahim Zailani and the Protem Secretary, Hon Idris Yahuza said the purpose of the meeting is " To discuss The State of our Party, Issues, Challenges and the forthcoming APC National Convention- The Role of Former Members of the National Assembly and the Road to 2023".
The Statement urged all Former House of Representatives members in APC to endeavour to attend the meeting in order to be able to aggregate opinions on sundry political issues.

By Philip Agbese

“The rule of law is the basis for any democracy. And without the rule of law in any democracy, you have chaos” --Meles Zenawi, Ethiopian soldier and politician.

Nigerians are exciting lovers of equity, justice and the rule of law. It is the reason, Nigeria’s statute books are replete with laws, which are periodically reviewed. The campaign for justice among Nigerians usually gain ascendency under democratic settings in the country. In the nation’s recent history, ex-President Umaru Yar’Adua was a strong advocate of justice and the rule of law.

The then Attorney -General and Minister for Justice, Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, was the poster boy of the rule of law mantra under the Yar’Adua Presidency. After the expiration of that government, the rule of law seemed to have gone extinct to the angst of Nigerians. Does it therefore mean, the rule of law no longer exists in Nigeria? The answer is No!

Today, the emphasis on the rule of law is replicated by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. From the onset, President Buhari left no Nigerian in doubt about his avowal to run a Government of Nigeria premised on the words and letters of the rule of law.

President Buhari, like the retired Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of America, Justice Sonia Sotomayor clearly discerned and firmly believed, “… in the rule of law as the foundation for all of our basic rights.” He has been a stickler to this dictum in his leadership of Nigeria.

This mindset pulsated President Buhari’s advocacy and declaration in his inaugural day speech May 29, 2015 that; “The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution…The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past…It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today.”

There is no gainsaying, President Buhari has walked his talk on the “Rule of Law” mantra, in his near seven years reign in Nigeria’s Aso Rock, the seat of power. Unlike his predecessors, Nigerians have experienced Mr. President’s due recognition and observance of the constitutional independence of the other arms of government in a democracy. His sermons are always centered on the non-interference with the operations and rights of other arms government as enshrined in the Constitution of Nigeria. That’s why he does not wear the toga of President and leader of his Party.

Buhari is tenaciously upholding the sanctity of the rule of rule, even where the people’s offensive indulgence into lawlessness bruises the pride of nation and defames or undermine his Presidency. And the enabler of Buhari’s towering heights in the compliance with the rule of law and the redefinition of the Nigerian Justice system is the current Chief Law Officer of the Federation.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Barrister Abubakar Malami, SAN is law personified. He has fruitfully proven his mettle as an effective chief law officer of the federation. He has created innovative paths in ensuring the smooth administration of justice in Nigeria for effective governance based on the tenets of law as practiced by all democracies globally. He is strengthening old laws and engineering new legislations in areas where there are none.

Abubakar Malami is a translucent compliant with the rule of law. His office is active in offering genuine legal advice to government and appropriate interpretations of legislations in resolving thorny national issues. Minister Malami is silent or less vociferous about his assignments, but has many pluses to his credit. The justice minister has operationalized grandeur institutional reforms in the Nigerian Judiciary which have placed Nigeria in top ranking among nations in Africa attuned to the rule of law.

Barrister Malami has instituted solid sector reforms which have placed the Nigerian justice system on the path of expeditious dispensation of justice for the benefit of Nigerians. The Ministry of Justice has formulated multiple policies, and through the executive, it has sponsored fresh legislations to close up gulfs in existing laws and it has been relentless in offering appropriate legal advices in the prosecution of civil and criminal cases which have saved the FGN several trillions of naira in judgment debts these past six years.

Malami’s reforms in the justice sector reflects in the strengthening of the laws of anti-graft agencies, which have repositioned them for optimum performance. The result is the amazing volume of cases investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC and ICPC under the Buhari Presidency.

Under Minister Malami, Nigeria has domesticated legislations and international agreements, which have led to the passage and signing of Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Bill 2019 by President Buhari. And through Malami’s professional guidance, Nigeria has signed Agreements and MOUs with numerous countries to ginger international cooperation for the investigation, tracking, freezing and return of stolen assets which is actively operating.

In the area of prisons, the Minister of Justice has constituted a committee with the mandate of formulating policies and strategies for prison decongestion throughout the country. This is besides, the multiple legislations it has instituted before the National Assembly to backup the decongestion of prison formation process. The committee is working assiduously in clearing the backlog of cases of awaiting trials and those who have spent years in incarceration because of failure to pay minor fines imposed on them by the courts.

The Ministry of Justice under Malami has equally prosecuted various civil and criminal cases diligently. And through its sheer expertise, it has saved the FGN trillions of naira that would have been expended on judgment debts.

Justice delayed is justice denied. Nigeria has sustained a culture of interminable duration of cases before the courts. Therefore, Barrister Malami is working hard to end the reign of limitless court trials by defining a reasonable time-frame for justice delivery in Nigeria. What he is contemplating is restricting or pegging a 12-month time limit on the hearing of criminal cases from the High Court to the Supreme Court. Similarly, the succor to Nigerians will also extend to hearing and conclusion of all civil cases within 15 months from the day of its initiation across all the tiers of courts.

The initiation of the whistle blower policy of the Federal Government among other adjudgments effected in Nigeria’s legal system under the Buhari Presidency have strengthened the Nigerian judiciary. Therefore, delivering to Nigerians, an effective, trustworthy and flawless legal system are Malami’s salient reforms in the Judicial sector. Surely, it is another legacy, the Buhari Presidency will bequeath to Nigerians when its tenure eventually runs out in 2023.

Barrister Abubakar Malami will be remembered in Nigeria’s history as an incorruptible law officer who stood and defiantly defended the Constitution of Nigeria. He is likened to the likes of Justice Brenda Marjorie Hale, the Baroness Hale of Richmond, who served as the President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom (2017-2020) and famed for defending the Constitution. Malami is also famed for defending and protecting the Constitution at all times.

Ambassador Buratai, a national security asset, Nigerian envoy to Congo Iliya , Adekojo laud former COAS.

Nigeria's Ambassador to Congo, Deborah Nana, has described the country's former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd) as a national asset.

This was as renowned project consultant, businesswoman, philanthropist and singer, Engr. Dr. Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo hailed the exploits of the nation's current Ambassador to the Republic of Benin Republic.

The pair recently joined other distinguished Nigerian women to celebrate the former COAS at a book presentation in his honour in Abuja.

Amb. Deborah Samaila Iliya, the wife of late Army general, Samaila Iliya, was the chairlady of the event while Adekojo was the co-presenter.

In her remarks, the envoy said Buratai is the nation's greatest asset due to his strategic endeavors for peace and security.

She further described the former Army Chief as a distinguished gentleman and rare enviable leader.

She said, "Strategic leadership today has played an ever critical role in shaping and tackling global events, most especially the security challenges affecting our nation. Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality, it is the art of communication; it is about action not position. This book draws deep into the qualities; leadership, challenges, overall wealth of experience required to lead successful administration.  

"General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), the Former COAS and Current Ambassador to  Benin Republic, has proven to be a distinguished gentleman, rare enviable leader, who in recent times can be best described as one of the nation's greatest assets in the strategic endeavors for the peace and security of our great nation. When you are a leader, your utmost success is all about growing others; this is what we are celebrating today.

"I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the author, a celebrated political analyst, seasoned author and security commentator, Best Agbese, for his laudable efforts in further immortalizing his laudable leadership, determination and sacrifices of Gen. Buratai and other military personnel through this great book. It serves as an inspiration to emerging leaders and to many at large".

On her part, Adekojo said Nigerian women should reciprocate Buratai’s gesture as COAS when he saw the creation of the Nigerian Army Female Corps and ensured equality for women and made sure that many female officers and soldiers got their promotion as at when due.

She also said women shouldn’t only pray for the Armed Forces but devise ways to support the Federal Government in the fight against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

The founder of FunmiAyinke Foundation, however, assured that she will continue to use her foundation to support the non-kinetic approach in the war against insurgency by lifting many youths and vulnerable women out of poverty.

The philanthropist, also known as Funmi Ayinke, said Nigerians should expect more trailblazing performances from Amb Buratai in the diplomatic world.

The Empowerment for Unemployed Youths Initiative, a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) has commended President Muhammadu Buhari’s efforts in ensuring youth development in the country.

The Executive Director of the Organisation, Mr Richard Audu who gave the commendation on Thursday at a news conference in Abuja, also commended the National Assembly for considering the NYSC Trust Fund Bill for second reading.

He said that after a critical observation of events under the current administration, it is crystal clear that there is a synergy between the Executive and the Legislature on youth development.

“We have studied events critically, and we wish to state that the indices speak positively about the concerted efforts by both arms of government towards ensuring issues that bother of youth development seem to have been granted special attention by both arms of government.

“We are elated with this development. We desire that this fruitful relationship will eventually yield the desired results in no distant time.

“The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has consistently displayed an unalloyed commitment to addressing issues of national concern, not just youth development issues.

“The National Assembly has, in like manner, complimented the efforts of the executive arm of government by ensuring that matters of national concern are without rancour.

“The recent rejigging of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill is indeed a testament that both chambers of the National Assembly remain committed to the sustenance of our nascent democracy,” she said.

Audi also commended the parliament for its commitment to harnessing the potentials of the youths in the country.

He said that the deliberations on the floor of the House of Representatives at the second reading of the bill seeking to establish the National Youth Service Trust Fund was a clear example.

He said that the green chamber were unanimous about the bill which gives hope to to the aspirations of the Nigerian youths.

“It indicates that the resolve to initiate policies and implement plans towards addressing youth unemployment in the country has a special place in the Executive and Legislative arms of government.

“We are confident that the NYSC Trust Fund Bill, if passed into law, will undoubtedly take over 50million youths out of the unemployment market within the shortest period.

“We are calling on the relevant committees in the House of Representatives to continue to display the strength of character and the unity of purpose in ensuring the smooth passage of the NYSC Trust Fund bill in the overall interest of the unemployed youths in the country,” he said.

Audi said that when the bill in passed into law, it would serve as a vehicle for youths in the country to maximize their potential and their contribute their quota to the growth and development of the country.

He said it would strengthen youth commitment to the sustenance of democracy, considering the invaluable role of the youths in national development.

“We, therefore, call on Mr President and the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ensure that the NYSC Trust Fund Bill becomes an Act for the good and wellbeing of the suffering Nigerian masses.

“The multiplier effect on the value chain of an enterprising youthful population cannot be overemphasised.

“The Empowerment for Unemployed Youths Initiative is using this occasion to drive home the potent point that the potential returns of capturing the opportunity to engage today’s young people in terms of food security, poverty reduction, employment generation, and peace political stability are enormous,” he added.

He urged all Nigerians to support the bill stressing the need for all hands to be on deck to ensure that laudable initiative is given adequate consideration as exhibited by the lower chambers.

BY: PHILIP AGBESE

The announcement didn't come as a surprise. It was greeted with widespread jubilation in the Naval Headquarters. They sang and praised him to the high heavens. Even though not much was known about this gentleman officer in the public space, there was no doubt that a new sheriff was in town in the Naval headquarters.

Vice Admiral Auwal Zubairu Gambo, the Chief of Naval Staff, is a man of few words but plenty of actions. He walks the talk and abhors mediocrity. His penchant to work is infectious. I recall several instances when our paths crossed at several fora. He always painted a picture of an introvert.

He would make comments in passing and leave it there. But to my astonishment, most times, the recommendations or takeaways from such stakeholders gathering would manifest in a week or weeks in the operations of the Nigerian Navy. That was how responsive and proactive he has always been.

The primary responsibility of the Nigerian Navy is to protect the nation’s maritime environment of about 84,000 square nautical miles. The nation’s maritime area of interest includes the entire Gulf of Guinea (GoG), about 574,800 square nautical miles spanning 2,874nm from Senegal to Angola.

It won’t be out of place if the Chief of Naval Staff is labelled a silent achiever. His style is different and a departure from the past. He is uniquely different in his style. This much has been responsible for the successes recorded in the operations of the Nigerian Navy in securing our waterways in recent times.

For example, the efforts of the Nigerian Navy in the protection of our waterways have been outstanding. It is on record that the smuggling, Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF), insurgency, hostage-taking, human and drug trafficking have been reduced to the barest minimum.

Given the sustained operations and exercises the Navy has continuously carried out against the numerous maritime illegalities, the latest piracy report from the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recorded a drastic reduction of piracy in Nigerian waters and the GoG.

According to the report, piracy in the GoG and Nigerian waters is now on a record low, as pirates’ activities in the first nine months of 2021 are the lowest reported in 17 years. And this bears testament to enhanced maritime security and response coordination measures adopted by the Nigerian Navy in recent times.

In my opinion, this is in line with the renewed operational policy of the Nigerian Navy that emphasises “leveraging all factors of national location, technology, training, teamwork and synergy to re-energise the Nigerian Navy and enhance her as a well-motivated and ready naval force in the discharge of her constitutional mandate and other assigned tasks in fulfilment of national security objectives”.

On record, the Nigerian Navy had contributed tremendously to the freedom of navigation in the Gulf of Guinea by strengthening coordination in the fight against insecurity for socioeconomic activities among member states to thrive.

There have also been collaborations between the Nigerian Navy and other strategic partners to enhance maritime security. For example, in the last couple of months, the Nigeria Navy has brought to bear its dominant status in the West African region by sustaining an aggressive presence in the nation's maritime environment, leading to the drastic reduction in acts of criminality in the Gulf of Guinea.

The Nigerian Navy has concluded collaboration efforts with the Ghana Navy to combat piracy further, and maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea as plans are ongoing to establish a standing multinational task force in the Gulf of Guinea. The Nigerian Navy recently hosted the maiden virtual sea power for Africa. The symposium brought together 33 African Navies and six other foreign Navies.

Since his appointment, these and many more initiatives were embarked upon by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Gambo. Lest I forget, the contributions of the Nigerian Navy in the war against insurgency in Nigeria have also been commendable.

It is thus necessary to state that the last year has been a beehive of activities in the Nigerian Navy. The various operational reforms introduced within this short period have placed the Nigerian Navy in a prime position to fulfil its constitutional mandate. These are indeed no mean feats. The Chief of Naval Staff has demonstrated that we can make a difference in every endeavour only if we are committed and patriotic.

Vice Admiral Gambo has lived up to expectations by displaying an uncommon commitment to improving the operations of the Nigerian Navy, and some of us are not surprised with the turn of events. I can bet that President Muhammadu Buhari is as much impressed.

I also gathered from reliable sources within the Nigerian Navy that in the annals of the history of the Nigerian Navy, Vice Admiral Gambo has proven to be one of those that prioritised the welfare of naval officers and ratings. Under him, it was stated that there had been a sustained emphasis on training and sophistication of its operations.

For example, the Nigerian Navy recently acquired a new hydrographic and oceanographic research vessel, NNS LANA, to replace the previous one, which was decommissioned ten years ago. The ship is expected, among other benefits, to allow the Nigerian Navy to have a better knowledge of its maritime territory and its exclusive economic zone; enhance coastal and deep-sea scientific research and studies; provide assistance and supplies to other boats, as well as helicopter winching and towing of ships.

It can also conduct geophysical studies, search and rescue operations, and patrol duties. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art modern survey equipment and a well-equipped 7.6m surface vehicle for shallow water surveys. Furthermore, the vessel has an Automatic Weather Station, AWS, wet and dry laboratories, scientific and technical workshops, and operating and processing rooms for survey data.

Another area worthy of mention is the U.S Coast Guard training exercise with the Nigerian Navy on Maritime Law enforcement, a part of a series of cooperation between the two countries in the fight against piracy. The training explored various internationally recognised techniques and procedures for maritime law enforcement at sea safely and professionally.

To think all of these happened in just one year in the saddle is most notable that one wonders what to expect in the months and years ahead. Be that as it may, I wish to state that Vice Admiral Gambo has been writing his name in gold in one year at the saddle. He has set the navy on the path of progress and helped to ensure that the nation's territorial waters are not only safe, but economic saboteurs are denied the opportunity of constituting themselves as clogs in the wheels of our progress. This is on the heels that Maritime security has already become a global concern in the present world. Severe threats could be posed if maritime security is jeopardised, as proven by many incidents of such kind.

In conclusion, the Nigerian Navy made significant strides in its operational activities and exercises in the past year under the dynamic leadership of Vice Admiral Auwal Zubairu Gambo. Notable successes were recorded in the number of hours at sea, anti-piracy/sea robbery, anti-COT/illegal bunkering, and anti-smuggling operations, as well as in NN's contribution to joint operations in the hinterland.

Vice Admiral Auwal Zubairu Gambo is indeed a lesson in leadership. The past year has proven this, and we must give credit to whom credit is due. I say a big congratulations to this silent achiever.


Agbese is a security and human rights expert based in the United Kingdom.

By: Bishop Charles Obe

The general elections are due in Nigeria in 2023. And the buildup to the elections is usually electrifying with scheming and political permutations at its best. Also, it's common to find political parties putting their house in order by reconciling warring factions to avoid electoral misfortunes and guaranteeing electoral success.

The same is applicable for individuals who, by their assessment, are suitable for certain positions in the country, ranging from the president to the councillor at the local government councils. And the list becomes endless. Political jingles rent the air. Billboards are not spared either, and the advertising mediums always smile to the bank because it's harvest time.

I love the election period in Nigeria; it allows me to see things from a different perspective and hope for better days in the country. For whatever it is worth, elections are good and, at the same time, terrible because it comes with their attendant consequences, not for the now, but the future with regards to those elected in office to pilot the affairs of the country.

My focus in this piece is on the presidential election. This is the father of all elections, and it is usually twofold; either we get it right or get it wrong. Experience has taught us so over the years.

So, the 2023 elections have again thrown into the ring political titans. Those who feel that their name is enough to aspire for the highest political office in the land have indicated interest. Those who think they control party structures have also shown interest. Those who feel that Nigeria's president should have an ethnic or religious consideration have also signified interest. And those whose track records in governance are also present in this hot race that is not meant for the weary.

After a careful analysis of the contenders, I pitched my tent with the aspiration of Yahaya Bello, the governor of Kogi state. Yahaya Bello is a rare being who would be difficult to discountenance in the affairs of Nigeria. He represents a new age, the age of thinking outside the box in proffering solutions to the governance challenge in the country.

I have heard people talk about his age as a factor that would work against him. I have also heard people say he behaves like he is acting in a movie in Kogi state. But I have heard people talk about how he has been able to confront the monster that held Kogi state moribund for several years and how he could give the people a breath of fresh air.

It is understandable if there are misconceptions regarding his stewardship in the state because people are at liberty to believe what they want to think. But I am not sure this sentiment is shared in Kogi state. I am sure any well-meaning individual from Kogi state would pat Yahaya Bello on the back for a well-done job. For some of us who are resident in the state but non-indigenes, we are marvelled at how this man quickly took charge of the state despite the mountain of issues that held the state down like a leprous finger.

Yahaya Bello is brave and one who is a master strategist. He knew from the word go that the road would not be smooth, and he adequately prepared for it. He changed the narrative, and as expected, the cartel who saw the state's commonwealth as their birthright could not believe their eyes.

I must confess that some of us felt he would run out of steam along the line. But we were continuously disappointed. He not only continued, but he also gathered momentum every passing day. Most people would not realize that he inherited a state in complete comatose, where state allocations are shared without conscience.

The civil service was over-bloated with a backlog of salaries and pensions. The educational sector barely exists on the lips. The security situation was horrible. Infrastructures were dilapidated and with no hope of any revival. The only thing that thrived in the state was gas stations and hotels belonging to government officials. It was so bad that as a public office holder, if you don't own a hotel or a gas station, you are not viewed as a man of the people for failing to employ people in hotels and gas stations. The situation was so bad that the people lost their senses, entirely preferring the life of misery and deprivation that successive governments in the state legalized.

Yahaya Bello braved the odds and changed the situation slowly but steadily. He addressed the rot in the civil service and restored its glory through laudable reforms. He embarked on an infrastructural revolution without the usual religious and ethnic consideration. He made the state uncomfortable for criminal elements that initially turned the state into their havens.

The security model he introduced indeed changed the situation for good. Today, Kogi is a no go zone for criminal elements hence the nickname White Lion. He is undoubtedly the White Lion that Nigeria needs at this critical point of our existence.

Yahaya Bello is individual that does not brook nonsense. He is very detailed. Little wonder why Kogi state remains one of the states where the cost for executing government contracts remains the lowest because the process is rigorous. You must deliver as at when due, else there would be consequences.

I can go on non-stop on the new Kogi state under Yahaya Bello, and I can't but wish that he gets the opportunity to lead this country. Yahaya Bello as President of Nigeria would be interesting and exciting. Nigerians would wake up to realize that those things that held us down would be removed in a record time. You might not like his methodology, but trust me, you would love the results that would come around because he would leave no stone unturned. That is Yahaya Bello for you. Those of us that have been residents in the state for decades can attest to his drive, sense of direction and focus. And lest I forget, he can be comical, especially when he hits the gym.

Today, Kogi state works because of a governor who stamped his feet on the ground to insist that it won’t be business as usual. If we are indeed serious about moving this country forward, we must look in the direction of Yahaya Bello. His name might not be as heavy as some of the big wigs that have indicated an interest in the highest office in the country. However, I can vouch that none of them is as passionate as Yahaya Bello. None of them could have achieved what he achieved under the same circumstance in their various endeavours.

At this point, we must be careful not to believe some of the issues peddled in the media with his stewardship in Kogi state. As an insider and one who witnessed Kogi in its shame and glory, I say emphatically that the situation in Kogi state before Yahaya Bello is the same as what Nigeria is experiencing, but on a larger scale. And if he has shown that it is possible for things to turn around in Kogi state, I do not doubt his ability to lead the country most exceptionally.

The choice is before us as we enter the elections. We must have at the back of our minds that our destiny is in our hands. Yahaya Bello has all it takes to lead the country. His central message is that everything is possible only if we believe and work towards it. Ladies and gentlemen, I recommend a rare gem for Nigeria.


Obe is a servant of the gospel based in Lagos.

A brand's digital PR strategy is an essential part of any marketing campaign. A successful digital PR campaign will build a level of trust, create long-lasting business relationships, and add a sense of professionalism.


Here is Boapr Agency's three keys to successful digital PR campaigns.


The first and most important key is understanding your target market. You need to understand who they are and where they’re interacting online if you want to be able to reach them, communicate with them, and get your product in front of them.

The second key to a successful digital PR campaign is using data. You have to have data to determine how well your PR campaign is doing, who’s listening, what language they speak, etc. This will give you a better understanding of why you should focus on social media platforms or other tactics going forward rather than continuing with ones that aren’t getting you results.




The third key is personalization. If you want people to listen and engage with the messages of your marketing efforts, then you should make those messages personal so that customers and potential customers will feel like they are being listened to by their peers rather than a corporation trying to sell them something.


Whether you’re an agency or you handle your publicity, the principles of effective PR apply the same. You’ll want to make sure your materials are aligned with your overarching marketing strategy, that you know what you’re aiming for in terms of coverage and positioning, and that you know where to share your materials and when.

There is no one-size-fits approach to PR, but these three keys should help keep you on the right track.

Digital PR campaigns can work for big name brands as well as small businesses but only if they follow these three keys.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Alhaji Muhammad Musa Bello has commended the managers of NYSC Scheme for its laudable achievements and mentorship roles for Corps Members.

He also said the services rendered by the Corps Members deployed to the Capital Territory cannot be underestimated.

The Minister stated this today in Abuja in his address as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2022 NYSC Annual Management Conference, themed, "Repositioning the NYSC for improved Healthcare Delivery; Revenue Generation and Corps Employment for Self-Reiance".

Alhaji Bello, whose address was read at the conference by the Secretary, Social Development Secretariat FCT, Hajiya Hadiza Mohammed Kabir promised that the FCT administration would continue to partner the Scheme for the successful implementation of its lofty programmes.

The Minister for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare in his goodwill message said the National Youth Service Corps, being a foremost youth organization in the country, has made numerous accomplishments in the promotion of national unity and development, as well as mentoring and empowerment of youths for self rellance.

Dare, who was represented by the Director, Special Duties in the Ministry, Mr Abumere Akhindewor added that the youth of every nation constitute its strength, and, as NYSC deals with this most agile, innovative and highly mobile segment of the country's population, it is important that the operations of the Scheme are responsive to societal dynamics.

"Successive Managers of the Scheme, therefore, deserve a big applause for initiating and sustaining this Conference, which
is a step in the right direction", he said.

He urged the Conference participants to use the forum to share experiences and generate fresh ideas that would improve the operations of the Scheme.

He expressed confidence that the outcome of the Conference will further strengthen and position the NYSC for more positive contributions to the socio-economic development of the country.

The Minister promised that the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development would continue to give necessary support to the Scheme for the successful discharge of its mandate, especially in sustaining the mentorship of members of the Service Corps for entrepreneurship development and self-reliance as it will contribute immensely to the success of the economic agenda of the present administration.

Dare also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry to the actualization of the proposed NYSC Trust Fund.

He said, "This is based on our firm belief that the Fund will enhance the operations of the Scheme, especially with regards to the training and empowerment of Corps Members for self-employment and wealth creation".

He enjoined all stakeholders, including State and Local Governments to continue to support the Scheme, especially through the discharge of their statutory
obligations as spelt out in the NYSC Act.

NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim in his welcome address added that the Annual Management Conference is a forum where NYSC Top Management and other key officers make critical review of the Scheme's operations with a view to evolving new policies and strategies for improved performance.

He said despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Scheme has continued to operate effectively in line with the established safety protocols.

"We have been working closely with the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, as well as Federal and State Ministries of Health for safe and efficient conduct of Orientation Courses and other aspects of our operations.

I am glad to mention that the Scheme has become a reference point for other organizations due to the measures we put in place in response to the pandemic" he said.

Ibrahim added that since its establishment in 1973, NYSC has continued to play vital roles in areas of national unity and integration, promotion of peaceful co-existence among people of different socio-cultural backgrounds, and free movement of labour among others.

Speaking further, he said the contributions of the Scheme to national development, especially in the areas of health, education, rural infrastructure, culture and tourism, sports, conduct of elections and job creation have attracted commendations from within and outside the country.

"The Scheme's accomplishments are also being showcased through our in-house news magazine, print and electronic media and the newly established NYSC Museum/Archives", Ibrahim said.

The Director-General added further that while the Scheme appreciates stakeholders' roles in the achievements recorded so far, the Annual Management Conference seeks to consolidate them by generating new ideas for greater impact.

He said despite the aforementioned achievements, there is need for some critical stakeholders to be responsive to their statutory responsibilities to ameliorate the challenges facing the Scheme such as; dilapidated Orientation Camp facilities, inadequate Corps Lodges and lack of befitting office accommodation in some States.

"As we continue to call on the relevant stakeholders to help in addressing the foregoing challenges, I wish to also use this medium to appeal to the appropriate authorities and well-meaning Nigerians to support the establishment of the proposed NYSC Trust Fund.

Among other benefits, the Fund will make the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme of the Scheme more impactful through the provision of training facilities and start-up capital for Corps entrepreneurs. It will also assist in addressing our infrastructural needs for enhanced operational efficiency", he added.

There was also a goodwill message from the NYSC National Governing Board Chairman, Ambassador Fati Bala Abubakar.

*Progressive women raise alarm over plots by some APC Govs to destroy party at February Convention*

The Coalition of Progressive Women in Nigeria (CPWN) has called on the ruling All Progressives Congress to reschedule its proposed February 26th national convention over alleged plots by some governors to hijack the exercise.

The APC women also urged its Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) to instead focus on uniting aggrieved faithful.

The coalition made this known today at a press conference in Abuja ahead of the APC's planned convention.

In her remarks, the convener, Hon. Cecilia Ikechukwu noted that the "postponement would allow for party members to further air their grievances while exploring the path of reconciliation".

Ms Ikechukwu further raised the alarm over the overbearing influence of some governors running the affairs of the party and putting their interests first.

She specifically urged the party's National Executive Council to call Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Governor Simon Lalong and Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu to order.

The group, therefore, warned the three governors that any attempt to proceed with the convention will be resisted by women both in the country and abroad.

The group vowed to mobilise and take steps to prove to them that they can be demystified by party members.

They, however, urged President Muhammadu Buhari, other APC state governors and all leaders of the party to stand up to save the party before it self destructs in the hands of these emperor governors.

Read the full statement below:

Gentlemen of the press, the Coalition of Progressive Women in Nigeria is a pressure group within the All Progressive Congress (APC). It should be noted that our concept of a pressure group is in the sense of playing that motherly role women are imbued with to keep societies stable. We believe that women can ensure stability when they play their role in being peacemakers.

These role expectations notwithstanding, we have largely refrained from pitching into the challenges that beset our party, the APC, in recent months. As it is well known, these challenges might have been worse than what we currently have had the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) not done a great job of dousing tension and reconciling brothers whose differences boiled over in form of what some people refer to as internal party crisis.

We had thought that the Committee would continue to expand its peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts but were rudely shocked when the elective national convention was announced on February 26, 2022. This development is disconcerting for the very reason that it has further frayed already strained intra-party relations.

The logical thing would have been to as much as was possible try to further reconcile the various state factions of the APC. That way, whoever emerges as a candidate for any position will enjoy widespread support going into the 2023 General Elections. But pressing ahead with the National Convention without first putting the house in order is calling for disaster. We have seen it happen in other political parties in the past whereby those who would be dissatisfied with the outcome of a major incident like the National Convention will end up defecting to another political party.

No right-thinking politician will assert that it is a desirable thing to lose members, strategic and high worth members, in an election year, which is the bleak prospect that our party now faces unless something drastic is done to correct the error of fixing a date for the national convention without first addressing underlying issues that threaten the wellbeing of the party.

Consequently, the Coalition of Progressive Women in Nigeria, as concerned mothers, hereby appeals to the National Executive Council (NEC) for the postponement of the APC’s February 26th National Convention until a later date when the party would have made further progress in unifying its members. We firmly believe that the postponement would allow for party members to further air their grievances while exploring the path of reconciliation.

It is our fervent prayer that this appeal does not fall on deaf ears because the consequences could be grievous. We would not like for the appeal to take on the tone of an unheeded warning in the future when irreparable damage would have been done to the party with attendant electoral losses.

In addition to rescheduling the National Convention to a more practical date, we implore the APC NEC to prevail on some of the party’s governors to curtail their excessive intrusion in the running of the affairs of the party. We will specifically ask that the NEC calls the trio of Kaduna State’s Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Plateau State’s Governor Simon Lalong and Kebbi State’s Abubakar Atiku Bagudu to order. It is callous for the likes of Nasir El- Rufai, Lalong and Bagudu to think that their words should be law and the interest of the party should no longer matter.

The overbearing way these people try to foist these personal ambitions and agendas on the party is largely responsible for where the APC has found itself today. Had their excesses been curtailed before they pushed the party into this mess, we would not have been trying to do damage control at a time when we should finalize our victory plan for the elections ahead.

We are therefore warning that we would hold El- Rufai, Lalong and Bagudu responsible for whatever ills the APC suffers should they go ahead with the convention and those aggrieved parties whose grievances have not been addressed decide to leave the party. We would then be compelled to prove to these overbearing governors the power of women as mobilizers as we will take steps to prove to them that they can be demystified by party members.

As women, we are saying that we cannot see danger and keep quiet. We cannot see the party digging its own grave and keeping quiet. We cannot know those acting against the interest of the party and shield them. President Muhammadu Buhari, other APC state Governors and all leaders of the party should stand up to save APC before it destructs at the hands of these emperor governors.

The only way forward is to reschedule the national convention from February 26, 2022 date.

Thank you.

By Mark Okeke 
The ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) finally scheduled its national convention for February 28. Sadly, rather than being a thing of joy the date now has all the markings of a dark cloud hanging ominously over the ruling party, which is now on the threshold of going the way of the former ruling party, the People Democratic Party. 
One pertinent question to ask is how the APC got to this point. A background to this inquiry is necessary. We seem to have all forgotten that the impetus for the formation of the APC, in addition to its war cry of wanting to salvage the country, was that of creating a political party that thrives on internal democracy and devoid of the internal wrangling that sounded the death knell for political parties in Nigeria.  
The dark cloud above the APC could perhaps have been prevented from gathering has the party curtailed the excesses of certain individuals who reckoned that they owned the party more than others. The most overbearing in this category are certain governors from the northern part of the country who practically passed across the vibes that what other party members and leaders want do not matter. It was their own way or the highway. 
Those who had argued against a February national convention for the APC had put forward their arguments. Such people posited that the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) has done such a good job that it should have gotten an additional lease of life to further actualize its mandate of smoothening relationships within the party. The APC was riddled with widespread crises and infighting before the Committee came on board.
While the Committee had done much to repair relationships and reconciled aggrieved factions at state level, some states remained in crises that will likely amplify in the run-up to the convention, which would then spell doom for the party.
There was also the argument that it would have been globally consistent to defer the national convention such that it holds at the same time with the convention to select the APC presidential flagbearer for the 2023 elections. Those that pushed this position reasoned that it would allow more time for further reconciliation. 
But the hardliners that have somehow appropriated the party to themselves will have none of these arguments. They practically passed it as a decree that the elective convention must hold in February. 
Unfortunately, with the overbearing disposition of these democratic dictators, that which should have been forgotten has now been named. Righteously disgruntled members are now beginning to discuss in terms of the constituent blocs that were cobbled together to from the APC – the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the new PDP - faction of the People's Democratic Party.
The danger from this development is that it is setting the tone for those aggrieved by the high handedness of some APC governors to contemplate pulling out their blocs and reverting to a semblance of pre-merger days or to go find expression in other political parties.
If those who think they have pulled a coup by fixing and announcing a date for the national convention feel the limited protestation that greeted the development is a good sign, then they have major surprises coming for them. The seeming silence should rather be construed from perspective of being ominous. These people that are unhappy at being muscled are keeping silent apparently because they have their own game plan, a fallback position that will ensure they can make the people they perceive as usurper to pay steep prices at the polls come the 2023 General Elections. And one way of giving a bloody nose is for them to pursue courses that will ultimately cause implosion in the APC.
For APC’s death not to be near and being of its own doing, genuine stakeholders must step forward to see if there are remedial steps that would salvage the party. There is an urgency to find solutions and expose those that are out to kill the party. Interestingly, these would be assassins and undertakers of the APC are neither PDP nor any opposition. The situation is that the APC is about to consume the APC. 
Stakeholders must confront the stark fact that these people currently dictating for the party do not have a single strand of the APC’s interest at heart. No. They are out for their own interests, which would only make February more brutal for the APC. The fallout will not be contained within the APC as there would be a spillover that will make Nigerians call for some people’s head. There will be reckoning. These same characters behind the APC debacle are those that connived with Bill Gates to keep Nigerians perpetually hungry in the wake of global coronavirus outbreak. By seizing the soul of the APC, they invariably target pocketing Nigeria and owning its citizens. People will revolt against this.  
If the new self-appointed owners of the APC can still activate their capacity to listen, then they should hear this. Nobody wants a Convention in February. More than half of APC members have issues to resolve. Yet these lords want to deceive party members and Nigerians that a crisis-free convention is possible in February without making visible efforts to build consensus and secure the buy-in of party members. 
As the party is made to press ahead with the ill-advised February 28 national convention date against reason and in spite of the dark cloud that hovers above it, one is compelled to ask a profound question. Who bewitched the APC?

Okeke wrote this piece from Abakaliki.

NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu lbrahim today inaugurated the NYSC Mega Printing Press in Kaduna.

He said the project, which was conceived almost a decade ago, is a testament of the commitment of NYSC Management to the functionality of the six Mega-Printing Presses, as approved by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

He expressed appreciation to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the unwaivering support being offered the Scheme.

Ibrahim added that the birth of the printing press is a confirmation of one of his administration's policy thrust, which is centred on reinvigorating the NYSC Ventures.

He said, "It will be a veritable source of revenue with attendant increase in our remittances to the Federal coffers.

This facility and similar ones that will be sited in other geo-political zones will be open to public patronage, and in addition to handling the printing of publications of the Scheme, thereby cutting down our running costs".

The Director-General stated further that the Printing Press would also serve as a training platform for NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development as interested Corps Members would be accorded the opportunity to acquire skills in publication and digital printing.

He charged the Managers of the Printing Press to hit the ground and ensure efficient and effective handling of the facility so as to meet the printing and publication needs of all NYSC formations in the North-West Geo-Political Zone and the general public.

"This is a strategic project which must be placed in good stead to complete favourably in the printing market.

I expect you to be above board in canvassing patronage from individuals and organizations in both the public and private sectors", General Ibrahim said.

The DG also directed all the NYSC formations in the North-Western part of the country to ensure patronage of the printing press as it is set to offer a wide range of services in digital printing technology.

He used the forum to also canvass support from well-meaning Nigerians for the establishment of NYSC Trust Fund, which will address infrastructural deficit in the Scheme, as well as enhance the training and provision of start-up capital for Corps Members under the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme of the Scheme.

He said this will go a long way in making them self-employed with the multiplier effects of lifting millions of other Nigerians out of poverty.

General Ibrahim added that his administration would continue to use the potentials of Corps Members for national development.

In his welcome remark, the Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Mr Emeka Mgbemena commended the Director-General for his laudable achievements, including the NYSC Radio and Television which would be inaugurated soon.

He assured him that the printing press would not be a flash in the pan, but would run profitably as a strategic business unit of the Scheme.

All is set for the public presentation of a book that details the meteoric rise of Nigeria's former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd).

The book titled 'The Great Exploits of Buratai', written by UK-based scholar, author and lecturer, Engr B. O. Agbese will be unveiled on January 25th at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Agbsese aptly captures Buratai's journey from a reputable soldier, combatant, anti-terrorism campaigner to a diplomat in this literary work of art.

The author said in over three decades of service to humanity, both in the military and public service, Amb Buratai has proven his grit as a rare gift to the nation, Africa and the world.

He noted that after several years of research, interviews and facts gathering, he has put together this literary work of art for future generation of Nigerians.

According to Patriot and Sage Digital Communication Ltd, organisers of the event, the book will be reviewed by renowned scholar, Prof Udenta O. Udenta.

A statement signed by Toby Prince revealed that Governors of Borno, Yobe, Bauchi and Nasarawa States are among the dignitaries expected to grace the event.

He noted that the event will also feature a public lecture with the theme: 'Appraising Civil-Military Relations in the Fight Against Insurgency/Insecurity and the Way Forward for Nigeria'.

Toby said the topic has been well researched to address a serious national issue that is of immense importance to both state and non-state actors in the fight against insecurity and peacebuilding.

He, however, assured that at the end of the event, Nigerians will appreciate the legendary former COAS better.

Among distinguished Nigerians expected at the event as Special Guest of Honour are Governors of Borno and Yobe States, His Excellencies, Governor Babagana Zulum and Governor Mai Mala Buni as well as other state governors.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Leo Irabor will lead a powerful delegation of serving security chiefs to the event.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruq Yahaya and other military scholars are expected to deliver keynote address at the event while the VKS Group, a Turkish business group based in Akwa Ibom State, will lead the business community to the event with a strong delegation led by its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Onur Kumral.

The book will be preseted by Alhaji Nasiru Halidu Danu (Dan Amana Dutse), Ambassador Funke Ayinke, a renowned project consultant, businesswoman, philanthropist and singer as well as the Chairman of Innoson Motors, Chief Innocent Chukwuma.

His Excellency Ambassador TY Buratai, his friends and family have all confirmed their availability to be part of the event.

*Postpone APC convention in the best interest of party, Nigeria's democracy - Diaspora Group*

The All Progressives Congress in Diaspora Network (APC-DiNET) has called on the ruling party to cancel its proposed February 26th national convention date.

According to a statement signed by Dr. Makama Omeri, the Coordinator, APC-DiNET, United Kingdom, the move would be in the best interest of the party and nation.

Omeri said failure to consider another date for the convention could ultimately hamper the party's chances at next year's general elections and truncate the nation's democracy.

The Diaspora group also cited the Electoral Act Amendment Bill as a lingering issue that could affect the convention.

Following the amendment of the mode of primaries, Omeri noted that the process between the transmission to the Presidency and assent could take more than the six weeks slated for the APC convention.

The APC-DiNET also lamented unresolved congresses in many states of the federation as well as other unresolved disputes.

Under the prevailing circumstances, Omeri said it is "absolutely mindless, insensitive and counterproductive to hastily fix APC national convention date in six weeks from today".

The APC-DiNET, therefore, called for a revisit and extension of the national convention date of February 26,2022 to allow space and time to fraternally resolve pending crises issues

Read full statement below:

The APC In Diaspora Network (APC-DiNET) heartily felicitates with all the leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), home and abroad in the New Year! May the New Year splash endless blessings on us and Nigeria.

We also fully identify and support the very genuine commitment of the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee's (CECPC), leadership, led by the Yobe State Governor, His Excellency, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni to reposition, strengthen, deepen internal democracy within the Party and the reconciliatory initiatives within our great Party ahead of 2023 general elections. Sir, you are a worthy leader, with a wisdom only akin to King Solomon.

APC- DiNET is more excited at the efforts of the Buni -led CECPC to enthrone credible leaderships for APC at lower levels. But we are also convinced that this can only be done after the proper internal assignment of sanitisation of the APC is completed in order to lay a template that will vigorously pursue, sustain and entrench the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria, as we unstoppably coast to landslide electoral victories in 2023 at all levels.

Therefore, APC- DiNET finds it incongruent with subsisting realities, the impromptu decision of CECPC to suddenly fix the APC national convention date on February 26, 2022, to crown the process of electing new set of leaders for our great Party which started last year. The CECPC's adoption of the timetable for the APC national convention at its 19th regular meeting this week, held in Abuja has raised fresh pertinent issues pregnable with implosive signals, if the national leadership of the Party fails to reconsider a reversal or ignore them for convenience .

And topmost on the sensitive issues is the uncertainties and controversies which have engulfed the clause of " Direct or Indirect Party Primary Elections" as contemplated by the National Assembly ( NASS) in the Electoral Act 2021 (as amended). It created a cold war between the executive and the legislature. We dare say, these issues have not been finally resolved; but unfortunately, the APC national convention depends on its template.

However, within the week, NASS took a bold step to clear the impasse on the Bill by expunging the "Direct Primaries " clause from the Electoral Act 2021 (as amended). It's expected that the Bill will again be forwarded to the Presidency, together with the other knotty clauses for Presidential assent. We feel, the time- lag of six weeks slated for APC national convention is extremely limited for the Bill to journey to the Presidency and back to NASS to invoke its veto powers, (if necessary) to pass the Bill into law for the ruling APC to contemplate a national convention, which is dependant on it.

Also, an insight into the concluded APC State Congresses nationwide indicate a troubling hangover of unresolved issues in many states of the federation. Some of these pending cases are premised on claims of inconclusive Party Primaries or wrong adoption of zoning or use of consensus principle. These have thrown up multiple legal issues to the legitimacy of the exercises in such states. Other lingering cases also dwell on unresolved disputes or intra-party rivalries in some of the states, which have also graduated into litigations and resultant court injunctions!

APC- DiNET belives, under the prevailing circumstances, its absolutely mindless, insensitive and counterproductive to hurriedly fix APC national convention date in six weeks from today. More so, without amicably and conclusively resolving these internal Party crises. Indeed, proceeding with the February 26, 2022 date for APC national convention with these serious issues is ill-timed, thoughtless on the part of CECPC and a recipe for an unimaginable magnitude of crises which have the potential to sprout more disaffection, enmity and bad - blood within the ranks of our great Party. This is not a good omen for our Party and reason the national convention date should be revisited before we fall prey into the membership drive and harvesting fields of the opposition elements!

APC-DiNET is not only keen on the progress of our great Party back home under President Muhammadu Buhari, GCON and Gov. Buni; but it also monitors the Party's reformative transformations under CECPC's leadership. Its doing a wonderful job, which should not be truncated now for whatever urgency. It is incumbent on all of us to dodge, avoid and support the APC to skip the traps of yesterday, which slammed a CECPC on our laps. We are consciously heading on this path again and and therr is every need to be cautious!

We are not unmindful of the apparent vestiges of PDP in our midst, which are discreetly playing the cards of spoilers in the fold. Again, there are certain APC topshots who are elements of the opposition. These clan of Party members loathe or are against reconciliations or efforts to reposition APC, and so, desperate to deploy the 2014 new- PDP- G5 strategy, which beefed up membership and national clout for the APC at that time. And their target is the pending APC national convention exercise and if, we fail to handle it wisely, they shall use it to cause mass implosion within the Party, whilst they harvest our disenchanted bigwigs and members gleefully. Let's act with circumspection and should not consciously give our opponents a smoothened ground to ride roughshod on us in the 2023 general elections!

That the CECPC through its Secretary is now debunking earlier media reports that it zoned APC's national offices, six weeks to convention date intimates of a serious and delicate problem on our hands. APC's national leadership must be careful, or alert, least, they donate our great Party and Nigeria's leadership to the opposition vampires for devouring. Therefore, APC-DiNET immediately calls for a revisit and extension of APC's national convention date of February 26,2022 to allow space and time to fraternally resolve pending crises issues! Thank you.

... say it’s plot to end the party’s reign and unity ahead of 2023

Some stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) have rejected the proposed February 26th date for the party's national convention.

The group, under the auspices of APC Youth Development and Solidarity Forum, said the ruling party could potentially disintegrate should it proceed with the convention.

The APC stakeholders made their position known in a press conference on Thursday in Abuja.

According to Secretary General, Hon. Tobias Ogbeh, some party faithful have been working with foreign agents to destabilize the party at the convention.

He noted that the plan is to run a parallel secretariat and institute legal cases against the party to ensure that it doesn’t produce any candidate in 2023.

Ogbeh added that if not properly managed, this could ultimately lead to mass exodus of party members over unresolved and lingering legal issues.

The APC stakeholders, therefore, urged the party leadership to announce another date for the convention to save it from being hijacked by some vested interest that does not wish the party well.

If this is done, they, however, assured that the APC will remain united and all those scheming to undermine the party would be put to shame.

Read full statement below:

We welcome you to this important press conference converged in the light of the recent happenings in our great party, the All Progressive Congress (APC). We are glad that despite your busy schedules, you have elected to be here because of the unalloyed commitment to see to the political advancement of the party as we approach the next general elections.

The recent events regarding the date fixed for the party's national convention indeed give a cause for concern in the sense that if things are not handled properly, we stand the risk of the party disintegrating before the general elections.

Based on a security report, we have it on good authority that a segment of our party members have been working with foreign agents to destabilize the party at the party convention. They have perfected plans to run a parallel secretariat of the party institute legal cases against the party to ensure that it doesn’t produce any candidate in 2023.

This is chiefly being coordinated by some governors who recently joined the party from the South-South region, another from one of the North Central states and another from the North West. They are working together with foreign mercenaries to cause an internal implosion within the party.

We also have it on good authority that these elements have also perfected plans to use the instrument of the court to disrupt the party activities by sponsoring frivolous court cases against the party with regards to the outcome of the convention.

Sadly, these elements that do not mean well for the party are being accorded tremendous patronage at the federal level, not knowing that these same individuals are planning to rock the party's boat by all means necessary.

The leadership and members of the APC Youth Development and Solidarity Forum is alarmed with the turn of events in our great party as the elections approach. The signs that all won’t be well with the party are apparent, and our leaders have elected to put their interest first before that of the party.

They have forgotten that the opposition party is consolidating and putting in measures to stage a dramatic return to power as we have it on good authority of plans, also to infiltrate our party with moles who in turn feeds them with our strategies towards the elections.

We wish to state boldly that the overarching objective is for a mass exodus of party members from the party due to unresolved and lingering legal issues. So much so that it would deny party members and candidates the time to fulfil the INEC stipulated requirements.

As concerned stakeholders in the party, we wish to state that all is indeed not well and should the party elect to go ahead with the planned national convention of February 26, 2022, that would undoubtedly mark the journey of the disintegration of the party.

We wish to warn the leadership of the party to see this threat as real and do all within its means to avert the looming crisis in the party by looking for an alternate date for the party convention to save the party from being hijacked by some vested interest that does not wish the party well.

The APC Youth Development and Solidarity Forum is aware of the tremendous sacrifices by the party's founding fathers. It would be a great disservice for all the stakeholders in the party to watch the party disintegrate.

We as stakeholders must rise to the occasion to ensure that the party stays united and strong to face the opposition during the general elections. We must also be mindful that the APC as a party remains the hope of the common masses. Any attempt to destroy it would be disastrous to our democracy.

We must sustain the tempo and ensure that the very ideals for which the party came into existence are maintained and built upon. We must also do all within our means to continue to be that medium that Nigerians can rely on in delivering the dividends of democracy in the country.

As a result of these, we call on the party leadership to act now in the best interest of the party and the country at large. The NEC of the party must have a rethink with regards to holding the party convention under a rancorous circumstance and atmosphere.

Our firm belief is that our party would remain united, and all those scheming to undermine the party would be put to shame.

We thank you all for your time and attention.

God bless us all.

*Nnamdi Kanu: Apologise to Nigeria, Malami, Coalition tells disgraced Canadian Minister*

The Coalition for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has called on Kelechi Madu, the suspended Minister of Justice and Solicitor-General of the Government of Alberta in Canada to apologise to the Nigerian government and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami over his utterances following the re-arrest of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.

The Coalition said Madu has been exposed to be a sham, who lacks capacity in evaluating legal issues.

Recall that the embattled Alberta minister had attacked Malami in July describing the AGF as a bigot who "who does not understand what it means to live in a pluralistic society governed by the dictates of the rule of law".

But after his suspension, the Coalition said Madu’s traffic infraction in Alberta and his subsequent indiscretion proves he is unqualified for such exalted position.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Timothy Charles, the Coalition for Truth and Justice said Madu should apologise for attempting to normalise terrorism.

According to Charles, the Alberta official must "reflect on the facts around his poster boy, Nnamdi Kanu, whose ongoing trial for treason enjoys the support of right-thinking Igbo leaders".

Charles noted that the decision to prosecute Kanu for his crimes against Nigeria is one that any AGF would have taken for statutory and security reasons and not one that Malami took as an individual.

The group, therefore, demanded an immediate public apology from Madu to the Federal Government and to the AGF if he has "any iota of honour still left in him".

Read full statement below:

The Coalition for Truth and Justice is pleased to learn that the Minister of Justice and Solicitor-General of the Government of Alberta, Canada, Kelechi “Kaycee” Madu, has been exposed for the scam that he is even as the coalition demanded that the disgraced Canadian Minister immediately apologizes to Nigeria and Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami SAN.

The Premier of Alberta, Jason Kenney asked Madu to step aside after he was reported to have inappropriately contacted the police chief of the province over traffic-related offences committed on March 10, 2020. Madu got fined $300 for using his phone while driving and subsequently called the police chief, which he was not supposed to do and ought to know being Alberta’s chief law officer.

We demand that Madu apologizes to the Federal Government now that he has been exposed as a sham and in view of his misguided tantrum last July in which he attempted to normalize terrorism while upbraiding Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami SAN over the re-arrest of the then fugitive, Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the terrorist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

With the benefit of hindsight, Madu’s traffic infraction in Alberta and his subsequent indiscretion of contacting the police chief attest to his lack of capacity in evaluating legal issues hence the vehemence with which he projected his pro-terrorism biases when he attempted to justify IPOB’s crimes against humanity and its leader, Nnamdi Kanu’s criminality as vestiges of a pluralistic society. He had at that time, in July 2021, packaged his criminal endorsement of IPOB as the position of the Canadian Government while attempting to build an international coalition to demand the release of the terrorist leader, which for us is the height of rascality for anyone in the temple of justice.

It is therefore not surprising that Kelechi Madu was unable to conceal his predisposition to sabotaging the system for long. There is only so much that dapper suits and neckties can hide, the cowl does not make the monk and while one can take the monkey out of the jungle, one can never take the jungle out of the monkey. Madu, with his IPOB pro-terrorism indoctrination cannot in the true sense shed the penchant for gaming the system in the manner that IPOB members do. So, no one is surprised that the disgraced Minister is one of those few Nigerians who give this country bad reputation abroad.

One lesson that is evident from this development is that IPOB has placed its members in strategic positions in other countries in the hope of using them to pressure Nigeria into allowing the terrorist group run riot without being challenged or its members and leadership held to account. Fortunately for Nigeria, in Madu’s case he was unable to resist the lawlessness for which the group is known.

Now that he has been stripped of the office that wrongly amplified his sense of power and relevance, we expect that Kelechi Madu would take time to reflect on the facts around his poster boy, Nnamdi Kanu, whose ongoing trial for treason enjoys the support of right-thinking Igbo leaders.

Majority of Igbos support the trial and prosecution of Nnamdi Kanu as someone who has continued to inflict pains and injuries on his fellow kinsmen more than anyone else. The courts would decide if the multimedia recordings of him inciting IPOB members to commit murder and arson are not enough grounds to hold him accountable for the resulting loss of life after his instructions were followed.

The decision to prosecute Kanu for his crimes against Nigeria is one that any AGF would have taken for statutory and security reasons and not one that Malami took as an individual. AGF Malami by nature is a true nationalist and has the highest respect for every Nigerian hence the decision by Mr. President to make him the Chief law officer. For Madu, with his addiction for breaking the law, to have attacked Malami’s person in the manner he did last year is uncalled for.

Irrespective of the outcome of the independent inquiry ordered by Alberta’s Premier, we therefore demand an immediate public appology from Kelechi Madu to the Federal Government and to the AGF, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN if the fellow has any iota of honour still left in him.

*APC Youth Sacks Lukman Salihu as Progressives Governors DG over alleged anti-party activities*

_...gives Govs ultimatum to announce replacement_

The Progressives Youth Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has 'sacked' the Director-General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Dr Salihu Moh Lukman, over alleged anti-party activities.

The APC Youth council also gave the APC governors 72 hours to name a successor for the embattled DG.

The group made this known in a communique signed by its co-ordinator, Prince Danelson Momoh, alongside nine others on the recent development in the APC.

According to the statement, Dr Lukman has shown that he is a mole in the ruling party with a mission to undermine it and ultimately hand advantage to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023.

The APC-PYC said that Lukman, in recent time, sponsored series of protests and media propaganda against the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC).

The group also alleged that the PDP mobilised Lukman with the funds for this purpose while the DG collected money from some governors but failed to declare same at the last stakeholders meeting held in Abuja.

While urging the APC governors to name Lukman's successor immediately to avoid further doom, the APC youth advised party faithful not to do any business with hi..

They, however, called on the Governor Buni-led committee to continue discharging their responsibility to the party and not be distracted by anyone.

Read full statement below:

The Progressive Youth Council of the All Progressive Congress (APC), PYC-APC has been following developments within our party with kin interest in recent months and have to a great extent identified the clog in the wheel of the progress of the only party that holds hope for Nigeria.

The Director General of Progressive Governors’ Forum, Dr Salihu Moh Lukman is the problem we have identified as being major among the challenges besetting the APC ahead of next year’s General Elections. This development is most unfortunate bearing in mind that the Progressive Governors Forum is a forum of governors elected on the platform of the APC, which implies that whatever is coming from that forum is by necessity progressive in nature, not just for the states superintended by the APC governor but for the country at large. This makes it sad that forum, under the administration of Dr. Lukman, has become synonymous with churning out of regressive ideas on an industrial scale where the APC internal issues are concerned.

We are saddened to state that Dr. Salihu is complicit in several anti-party activities that were targeted at undermining the APC from within for the benefit of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

APC loyalists will recall the series of sponsored protests to the National Secretariat of the Party in Abuja, which the Director General has been implicated as the one who mobilized these shows of shame, ostensibly to destabilize the party’s (interim) leadership as presently constituted. If Dr. Lukman has genuine grievances, there are established procedures and channels, hence there was no need for him to attempt reducing the APC into a den of thugs.

Several anti-APC media campaigns – open letters, features and opinion articles, planted news stories and even radio and television appearances of certain pseudo-pundits have been directly linked with Dr. Lukman. These media activities have been damaging to the reputation and perception of the APC to say the least.

Dr. Lukman has also been linked to funds reportedly provided by the PDP for the sole objective of creating implosion within the APC. These funds, we believe, he deployed for bankrolling the sponsored protests and the media campaign against the APC.

We appreciate that a few APC Governors, driven by inordinate ambition are in pursuit of personal agenda in the forthcoming General Elections but our expectation is that a Director General that is worth his office would prevail on such persons to align with the party’s interest. It is to our dismay that Dr. Lukman has rather actively encouraged such governors and their associates to rebel against the party.

It is further alarming that Dr. Lukman is the one anchoring a plan by recalcitrant elements in the party to stage a so called “mass defection” to one of the existing political parties in scheme that would be given widespread propaganda coverage to project a fake demise of the APC.

When it comes to integrity, there are also grievous issues. The Director General collected money from some governors and failed to declare same for the last stakeholders meeting held in Abuja. We wonder the extent to which he has shortchanged the party in other financial dealings.

Consequently, by virtue of the POWERS VESTED in the Progressives Youth Council of the APC Dr. Lukman is hereby declared persona non grata and his position declared vacant. In announcing the sack of Dr. Salihu Moh Lukman as the Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, we warn APC members not to have further dealings with him.

We give the Progressive Governors 72 hours from now to fill the vacant position. If a new Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum has not been named by 12noon on Monday January 17, 2022, the Progresive Youth Council will do the needful by announcing a replacement for the vacant position. We will then take all the necessary steps to give effect to our announcement.

This is because we can no longer keep quite whilst Lukman and his group of merchants continue to destroy the party.

Finally, we urge the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) to continue discharging its responsibility to the party and not be distracted by anyone. The Committee should do exactly as it has been instructed by NEC to position the party for victory ahead of 2023.

Signed:

1. Prince Danelson Momoh ( Coordinator)

2. Alhaji Audu Ibrahim

3. Engr. Gowon Maxwell Amos

4. Dr. Pate Kabiru

5. Alhaji Dagana Rabiu

6. Alhaji Mustafa Abdullahi

7. comrade Egboh U. Egboh

8. Hon.Bagudu U. Bagudu

9. Hon. Joyce Alli

10. Olusegun Oni

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim, has called for the review of school curriculum and introduction of Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development SAED, as it would expose students to vocational skills before they graduate.

The Director-General disclosed this in Abuja when the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, led a delegation from the institution to deliver a congratulatory message to Major General Ibrahim on his elevation to the new rank of Major General in the Nigeran Army.

He said the Scheme has partnered many institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BoI), Access Bank, Heritage Bank, Leventis Foundation and other agricultural institutions like NALDA and ARMTI towards the training and empowerment of corps members that have passion for agriculture.

The DG added that efforts are on top gear for the establishment of NYSC Trust Fund which will make funds available to corps members to start their businesses as they exit service.

He further stated that the proposed Trust Fund would also improve maintenance of Orientation Camp facilities and NYSC Skill Acquisition Centres across the country.

“We urge the Federal University Lokoja and other stakeholders to support us in youth empowerment”, the DG added.

He disclosed that NYSC has been interfacing with relevant institutions like the National Universities Commission (NUC), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), among others to inject more sanity into the mobilisation process of eligible graduates for national service.

Major General Ibrahim, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also lauded him for the congratulatory visit.

Speaking earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Lokojo Professor Akinwumi, said the university is delighted to associate with the landmark achievements recorded by the DG since he assumed duty in NYSC.

“We are proud of what you and your team are doing. NYSC must be protected because it is for the unity of the country” he said

The Vice-chancellor, therefore, called for continuous support for the NYSC Scheme especially the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, saying that SAED has empowered a large number of graduate youths to become self-reliant across the country.

The Management of Federal University Lokoja has joined the league of eminent Nigerians to congratulate the NYSC Director-General on his elevation to the new rank of Major General in the Nigeran Army.

The Institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, who led a delegation from the institution to deliver the congratulatory message to Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim in his office in Abuja today, said the University is delighted to associate with the landmark achievements recorded by the DG since he assumed duty in NYSC.

He canvassed support for the continuity of the NYSC Scheme especially the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, adding that SAED has empowered a large number of graduate youths to become self reliant.

The don, who relayed his service year experiences added that, “We are proud of what you and your team are doing. NYSC must be protected because it is for the unity of the country.”

In his response, the NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also lauded him for the congratulatory visit.

He added that NYSC has been interfacing with relevant institutions like the National Universities Commission (NUC), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), among others to inject more sanity into the mobilisation process of eligible graduates for national service.

Major General Ibrahim said there was the need to review the school curriculum and introduce Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development as it would expose students to vocational skills before they graduate.

He said the Scheme has partnered many institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BoI) Access Bank, Heritage Bank, Leventis Foundation and other agricultural institutions like NALDA and ARMTI towards training and empowerment of Corps Members that have passion for agriculture. This was contained in a statement signed by Emeka Mgbemena, Deputy Director, Press & Public Relations.

The DG added that efforts are on top gear for the establishment of NYSC Trust Fund which will make funds available to Corps Members to start their businesses as they exit service.

He said the proposed Trust Fund would also enable improved maintenance of Orientation Camp facilities and NYSC Skill Acquisition Centres across the country.

“We urge the Federal University Lokoja and other stakeholders to support us in youth empowerment”, the DG added.

During the visit, the Director-General led the University team on a tour of the NYSC Museum and NYSC Radio Studio, both at the National Directorate Headquarters Abuja.

In a similar development, the Abuja Zonal Head of TAJ Bank, Mellisa Adesina today led a delegation from the bank to congratulate Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim on his recent elevation.

She said the bank is working on a modality to partner NYSC on Entrepreneurship Training for Corps Members and also contribute its quota to national development.

General Ibrahim appreciated the bank and promised the Scheme’s readiness to improve SAED programme and reduce unemployment in the country.

“We will partner with you”, he said.

The First Lady of Nigeria, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, is set to host the first-ever National Progressive Women’s Conference in Abuja during which several topics including gender inclusiveness in politics and greater role for women in governance will be discussed.The Conference, which has "One Voice Uniting for Progress" as theme, is being spearheaded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) through Hon. Stella Erhuvwu Okotete, member of its Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) - Women Representative.The First Lady of Nigeria, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, will deliver the keynote address. The Vice President of Liberia, Chief Dr. Jewel Howard-Taylor will share her experience as a top government functionary with participants at the Conference, which will be attended by more than 1,000 women drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.The Conference, which is scheduled to hold on the 18th and1 9th of January 2022, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, will brainstorm on ways to strengthen women political rights, address barriers to women participation in the political process under democratic systems and evolve strategies for getting them fully involved.More than 200 leaders from the three tiers of government in the country and some prominent business women and captains of industry have confirmed participation in the Conference. They will make presentations focused on inspiring and propelling women to greater successful forays into politics, governance and leadership roles in businesses.

The Director-General, National Youth Service Corps, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim, has expressed satisfaction with the level of work carried out at NYSC ultra-modern Printing Press, Kaduna, in readiness for commencement of its operations.

Speaking on monday when he inspected the new building and the various equipment installed, Ibrahim said what he saw was delighting, adding that the outfit would soon be inaugurated. 

According to the DG, the establishment of the Printing Press was in line with his administration's policy on reinvigorating the NYSC Ventures as well as promoting human capital development. 

The Director-General added that the completion of the outfit in Kaduna would provide more impetus for the setting up of  similar platforms in the remaining five geopolitical zones of the country. 

He announced that all State Secretariats of the Scheme within the North West Zone and other contiguous States would be mandated to patronize the new outfit while also charging its managers to embark on aggressive drive for public patronage.

Conducting the DG around the complex, the Head of the NYSC Printing Press, Kaduna, Mr. Sam Nkwopara, hailed him for the bold initiative in setting up the outfit, and described it as another major feat added to the long list of the DG's outstanding accomplishments.

Nkwopara said the outfit was ready to handle general printing work for NYSC formations and the general public in the North West zone and other contiguous states.

 He congratulated the Director-General on his promotion to the rank of Major General,  and prayed God to grant him the grace to do more for the NYSC Scheme and the nation at large.

The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General IM Yusuf, has commended the NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim for his giant strides in the Scheme. 


He made the commendation today when he played host to the Director-General, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office. 


Describing Ibrahim as a source of pride to the Nigerian Armed Forces, he remarked that his achievements in NYSC were consistent with the qualities of hard work, dedication, selflessness and dynamism, which he demonstrated in his previous appointments. 


General Yusuf recalled the Director-General's contributions to the success of the NDA, especially as Head of History and War Studies Department as well as TETFUND Desk Officer.


He noted Ibrahim's leading roles in securing accreditation for courses of the History and War Studies Department, adding: "It was to his credit that NDA hosted a conference of the Historical Society of Nigeria for the first time," he added.


He said his achievements in NYSC did not come as a surprise given his known standard of performance. 


The Commandant congratulated Ibrahim on his promotion to the rank of Major General, describing it as well deserved. 


He said the Academy would continue to support the Scheme, especially in the area of Corps Welfare. 


Earlier, the Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim, thanked the Commandant for the mentorship he enjoyed from him, describing him as a thoroughbred senior officer. 


He expressed appreciation of the support NDA had been extending to NYSC, especially as one of the largest Corps employers.


Ibrahim particularly thanked the Commandant for prioritising the welfare of Corps members, including provision of accommodation and feeding for them while on transit. 


He assured that the Corps Members would continue to put in their best in the service of the fatherland.


In another development, the Director-General has commended Corps Members serving at the Nigerian Defence Academy for being good ambassadors of the Scheme, urging them to sustain the tempo of dedication and contribution to national development. 


He advised them to be security-conscious and avoid night travel. 


The Director-General also enjoined the Corps Members to use the social media only for the promotion of national unity and development as against hatred and ethnic jingoism. 


He advised them to develop vocational and entrepreneurship skills and pursue their dreams with passion.

Contrary to the information by the Osun state police command that some men of Department of State Services were arrested for kidnapping, Investigation has revealed that what happened was a debt collection that went sour.
Sources hinted that on 28 December 2021, three staff of 3 NSCDC met a gold merchant customer who they have been patronizing of shortchanged during their transactions with him.
After much argument, the gold merchant agreed to settle the one hundred thousand shortfall which they accused him off. He was later left off the hook and his neighbors who witnessed when he was arrested thought he was kidnapped.
It was at this stage that Osun state police command who had an axe to grind with the DSS joined the fray and indicted the DSS during a parade and accused four of its men of kidnapping.
Sources within the state police command said there were inconsistencies in the account of police during the so called parade that shows that the whole thing was a set up to paint the DSS black.
First, the account of four DSS men as reported by some media was outright falsehood. It was only one DSS that joined the three NSDSC to collect the debt.
Second, even the officer has been released without pressing any charges against him because the whole thing was premeditated.
Third, why did the Osun police command not inform the DSS that one of its men was in custody before the parade? There ought to be inter agency cooperation and coordination to rid the security agencies of bad eggs in the system without compromising security of lives and property. All these are indications that there exists deep seated animosity against the DSS because of some unresolved issues and vendetta.
The source said there was a case of female inspector of police who held a birthday bash and argument ensued after some of her men who came to celebrate with her were drunk. During the scuffle that ensued thereafter, one of his men who was already drunk fell and died three days after the incident because he was not properly treated. The Osun Police was later to accused a DSS officer who was at the birthday of murder.
As the source puts it, “Apart from vendetta, Osun Police Command use to do shoddy investigation. That was why the Adedoyin’s case was taken from them by the Force Headquarters. You will noticed a lot of inconsistencies during the preliminary stage of the case when the OAUTHC counters the PPRO when she said the corpse of late Timothy Adegoke has been taken the teaching hospital for autopsy, despite the information to the contrary.”