₦airaland Forum

The Ogoga of Ikere, HRM Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado today showered encomium on the NYSC for the wonderful job the scheme is doing not only in keeping the country united but in the development of rural communities in Nigeria. The Kabiyesi in his address said this is a scheme I will want to continue because of its impact on the development of Nigeria especially in the rural areas. Kabiyesi commended the Director-General for his noble and notable initiatives ranging from the HIRD to this NYSC Environmental Sanitation Programme. He specifically commended corps members in Ikere-Ekiti for their different developmental initiatives like the construction of Speed Breakers, Construction and Renovation of Public Toilets, Health Initiative Programmes among others. The State Coordinator in her reaction appreciated the Kabiyesi for supporting the scheme as well as taking the corps members as his own children. The Kabiyesi in appreciation of the sanitation exercise entertained the State Coordinator and all the corps members in Ikere-Ekiti.

ITF: Disregard Sahara Reporters, 'invisible' staff's alarm against Ari, group tells Nigerians

The Coalition for Good Governance (CGG) has urged Nigerians to disregard the false alarm by Sahara Reporters and a faceless staff of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) against its Director-General/Chief Executive, Sir Joseph Ari.

The group, at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, said after thorough investigation, it discovered no iota of truth in the claims of nepotism, favouritism and marginalisation against Sir Ari.

According to Secretary-General, Sola Olumese, Sahara Reporters was either misled by the hypothetical staff or is being mischievous in its reportage of events around the ITF.

On the issue of nepotism, the CGG noted that for the first time since the agency's creation, the management team cuts across all the six geopolitical zones of the nation.

The group further revealed that its research shows that promotion in the ITF is carried out in line with federal character principle without any preference for females as being reported.

It noted that accusations over promotion of women is preposterous and "only goes to show that we are fighting against ourselves, a battle we may likely never win".

The group also rubbished claims that Ari awarded contracts to his family, noting that it found no tangible proof.

Acknowledging the achievements of Ari, the CGG said the ITF boss has done remarkably well to rid the agency of nepotism, tribalism and the likes.

Under the current management, Olumese said ITF has become more focused, result-oriented, achievement-driven and strategically repositioned in the pursuit of its aims and objectives.

Olumese also said youth unemployment and paucity of critical technical skills for national development has been tactfully and strategically combated, therefore, bringing it to a minimal effect.

The group, however, urged Sir Ari not to relent on his good works, or get dissuaded by actions of different polluted media publications and charlatans surrounding him.

While calling on other agencies to emulate the ITF, the Coalition of Good Governance called on the Federal Government to show more commitment and support in the promotion of technical skills development as a panacea for the nation’s industrial development challenge.

Read full statement below:

Protocols,

The leadership of The Coalition for Good Governance welcomes you all to this press conference convened to clear the air on some spurious allegations raised against the leadership of the Industrial Training Fund and the need to set the record straight.

Over the decades, there has been a recurrent and sustained argument that Nigerian agencies, like its counterparts in Africa and other countries of the developing world, underperformed due to mismanagement of public funds, nepotism, or lack of capacity to deal with the contemporary complexities of governance. The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has debunked many conflicting rumors and speculations through it's effective positive impact on our great Nation, Nigeria.

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has been a great parastatal of the Federal Government of Nigeria under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. In pursuant to its statutory responsibility over the years, the ITF has expanded its structures, developed training programmes, and fully reviewed its strategies, operations and services in order to meet the expanding, and changing demands for skilled manpower in the economy.

The Coalition for Good governance inclines to make us understand that, "on the re-appointment of Sir Joseph Ari, as the Director-General/Chief Executive, ITF has proven its essence of establishment by promoting and encouraging the development and acquisition of industrial and commercial skills required in various industries across the nation".

Under the current management , ITF has become more focused, result-oriented, achievement-driven and strategically repositioned in the pursuit of the aims and objectives of the ITF. The strides achieved in the development of critical and technically Skilled manpower for industries and national development are commendable and worthy of emulation.
The Coalition for Good Governance feels disturbed and very concerned about the awful reports given by Sahara Reporters and hypothetical action of the disgruntled staffs who spoke to Sahara reporters concerning the management and its administrative style.

The Coalition has taken its time to investigate the issues raised in that publication and can authoritatively confirm that there is no iota of truth in all that have been said. We can only say that it is either Sahara Reporters was misled by the hypothetical staff or is being mischievous in its reportage of events around the ITF.

It is not new to us, issues of pettiness, anger , pain and rumor mongering, especially in this part of the world where political rivalry comes to play even when there should be a common goal to be achieved by individuals, who knowing better should put aside all anger or petty rivalry.

On the issue of nepotism, the CGG wishes to state that, it is a fact that for the first time since the creation of the ITF, the management team cuts across all the six geopolitical zones of our nation, Nigeria. How then can same be accused of nepotism?

If the Director General, Sir Gawaski is accused of certain wrongdoings, isn’t it only fair to confirm stories before passing them on to be eaten up by the general public? The ITF’s management is at peace, the kind of peace never before experienced in any organization . It says much about their good work and efforts targeted at nation building, equity and fairness to all concerned parties in the country.
The Coalition therefore wishes to unequivocally commend this equitable principle that is at play at the ITF and call on other critical agencies to emulate them. If anything, it tells of how much of hardwork has been done to rid the organization of nepotism, tribalism and the likes.

It is not hidden, how our country has struggled with having women in leadership. An issue we address with future tenses as regards the solution. The ITF management under the able leadership of Sir Gawaski is not waiting for the future. He gives everyone a fair shot, male or female, no matter the tribe.

We struggle as a nation, trying to rid ourselves of sexist leaders who downplay the roles of women in our society and we as a governmental organization pride ourselves in having women at the front of our affairs.

Apparently, Like every other governmental organization in Nigeria, employment and promotion is carried out in line with the federal character principle and the ITF is no exception.

Accusations as regards promotion of women is preposterous and only goes to show that we are fighting against ourselves, a battle we may likely never win. Will there have been complaints of men getting promoted? We claim to be fighting against sexism and chauvinism when every time a woman forges ahead, all we see is someone undeserving.

The Coalition for Good Governance has spoken endlessly for decades about women becoming more active in politics and governance, why then are we embittered by deserving women who have been given a fair shot at things, isn’t only hypocritical and chauvinistic? Aren’t we the source of our own problems. Some men, most likely embittered by women forging ahead, thinking they are more deserving of the positions have come forward to speak , accusing the leadership wrongly, claiming these women were promoted for hidden reasons, how do they know of the ‘hidden’ reasons and the media has acted once again on mere hearsay.

On Sir Gawaski’s reappointment not following due process, the president of the nation reappointed him for a second term, it goes to show that the organization delivered properly under the DG’s rule in the first term. If we watch closely this allegations, it should be noted , how much anger these rumor mongers have harbored in their hearts, it is obvious they are not comfortable with the DG’s reappointment and his giant strides at the ITF.
This goes to show what length these people would go to just to give the organization a bad name.

If these people are unhappy about the second term, they should be picking their bone with the president who thought it wise to reappoint the hardworking DG. Harbored anger has slowly grown to become hate and resentment, nothing will ever be good enough.

These people have a deep seated feeling that the Director General is not worth his position and so it has become a problem for them , they will scrutinize and find faults even where none is. When one is considered not good enough, a lot of things can happen, a lot more can unfold. Accusations begin to fly because that is the only way to know to show their frustration and fight back.

The Coalition for Good Governance has openly declared that the ITF under sir Ari has been nothing short of upright and following the righttsaeps, in accordance with what is required of us as a governmental organization by the law, once again we stand by our word, stating clearly that the organization has been under nothing but good governance.

On giving out contracts to family members, where is the proof of that ? If Sir Gawaski ran the organization like his ‘personal estate’ , how are there people cutting across different tribes at the hem of affairs? Or is the DG now from all geopolitical zones in the country?

One question begs to be asked at this junction, if there is zero nepotism at the head, why should there be at other levels? Over the last two years, sir Ari has been commended for keeping his promise made to the nation as regards his leadership in the ITF.

One occasion comes to mind , his inaugural speech , Sir Ari made a promise after his heart felt appreciation to the president to take the organization to the next level, his promise has been kept and it is evident in how far the organization has come.

He had told the entire ITF family and the nation at large that he was willing to fulfill the Mandate thrust on his shoulders as the DG . He said ; “we cannot afford to betray the trust that is given to us. We must note that our activities must be carried out with utmost commitment and total dedication. I, therefore, call on the management and the entire staff of the ITF and other key stakeholders to contribute innovative ideas. The time has come for us to really come together as a family and do something meaningful and different.”

Sir Ari has brought the organization farther than it had ever been, making sure to remove nepotism and marginalization, the two things most dealt with in governance from this organization. Sir Ari has given Nigerian women a shot at leadership in the organization as well. A feat yet to be achieved by most political organizations in the country . Indeed, sir Ari so far base done an excellent job.

CGG wishes to state in unequivocal terms that the challenge of increasing youth unemployment and paucity of critical technical skills for national development has become an emergency which ITF has been tactfully and strategically combating, therefore , bringing it to a minimal effect in our dear Nation.

We therefore urge Sir Ari not to relent on his good works, or get dissuaded by actions of different polluted media publications and charlatans surrounding him. While the ITF, under Sir Joe Ari has done creditably well in performing above expectations, the Coalition of Good Governance urges the Government to show more commitment and support in the promotion of technical skills development as a panacea for the nation’s industrial development challenge.
The Coalition of Good Governance applauds Mr President for his unending support for ITF, and his precious love for our great Country.

God bless President Muhammadu Buhari, God bless Nigeria.

By Benedict Aguele

The Industrial Training Fund has been in the news of late for leading a revolution in the technological space in the country. One of the reasons is the recent launch of made in Nigeria Android phone, ITF Mobile with 100% locally sourced materials.
I was impressed, to say the least, and that ignited my interest in the ITF, and the revelations have been mind-boggling. As a start, the ITF, an agency under the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, and established in 1971, has not only raised training consciousness in the economy but has also helped in generating a corps of skilled indigenous manpower which has been manning and managing various sectors of the national economy.
In those days, at the mention of ITF, the thought of students’ placement on industrial training readily comes to mind. This erroneous impression is that everything about the ITF starts and ends with certifying students' industrial training experience.
I dare say a lot has changed in the operations of the ITF under the leadership of Joseph Ari as the director-general. After detailed scrutiny of the ITF in the last five years, I speak on good authority that, indeed, there has been a revolution in the agency. One of the signs is the manufacturing of the ITF Mobile, the first made in Nigeria smartphone.
I gathered from reliable sources that the ITF had also been silently finetuning skilled indigenous manpower in various sectors of the economy through the revamping of the ITF Model Skills Training Centre.
The Model Skills Training Centre was established by the Industrial Training Fund as a Post-Secondary Technical Institution in 2011 to provide industry-relevant career and technical education programmes for secondary school leavers and adult learners. It was a two-pronged effort by the Federal government to actualise the millennium development goals. To date, the Model Skills Training Centre (MSTC) is progressing in developing the nation’s economy through its highly Skilled Human Resource.
In 2016, the MSTC formally applied to the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), which is mandated to accord approvals on prospective TVET programmes to include specific programmes for critique/vetting and development in the National Vocational Certificate (NVC) component. This was closely followed by another critique exercise request to add the National Innovative Diploma (NID) component to its certification status.
In 2017, the MSTC was granted approval to operate as an Innovative Enterprise Institute (IEI), with effect from December 2016, to offer programmes in the two components of NID/NVC. Admission into the MSTC is now through JAMB for the NID programmes that run for Two (2) years and direct admissions for the Modular programmes that run for four weeks to 24 weeks. Today the Centre is a Model in TVET Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
This brings me to the leadership question in Nigeria. I have long stated in numerous forums that leadership is required to set the country on the path of greatness. Using the ITF as an example, we could see how credible leadership has resulted in groundbreaking initiatives that make every Nigerian proud. Let's rewind; if the director-general of the ITF, Joseph Ari, had toed the line of his predecessors in office, I am sure the ITF would have remained that agency responsible for student's placement for industrial training exercises alone.
We should learn to call a spade a spade and celebrate those who have displayed acts of ingenuity in service to the country. The story of Joseph Ari at the ITF comes readily as a worthy example for leading the revolution at the agency in the last five years of his stewardship.
I gathered that it's about service for him, and this could be felt in the manner the agency has been able to carry out its mandate effortlessly. This, in my considered opinion, answers the leadership question that is needed in the country.
The likes of Joseph Ari have proven that leadership is not rocket science; therefore, there are no 'set' qualities that have to be present in all leaders. Instead, an effective leader draws from a range of personal qualities to help them deal with different circumstances and challenges. This is the Joseph Ari story at the ITF and why he should be celebrated and not castigated. Unfortunately, this is the country we have found ourselves in, where some does not want to see anything progress and where the ultimate aim is to pull down rather than uplift.
I have been reading some mischievous publications on Joseph Ari recently, and I could not help but laugh in utmost disbelief. And I said to myself, how can we make progress as a country when good deeds are detestable, and blackmail is the order of the day.
I hold the firm opinion that the media has a role to play in ensuring that malicious and mischievous intentions are not promoted at the expense of the integrity of those with a solid commitment to providing credible leadership in the country.
The implication of the above is that should mischievous elements get the upper hand, we can be assured that the country would be thrown to the dogs, and sustainable growth and development would elude us.
Those that are envious of the sterling leadership of Mr Joseph Ari at the ITF should do well to swallow their pride and desist from the well-orchestrated slander campaign launched in the media, which might be as a result of the exploits recorded by the agency under his watch and in record time.
In my considered opinion, I think the narrative on the Joseph Ari led ITF should be on how leadership has transformed a once docile agency to a proactive and result-oriented agency. My two cents.


Agule is a strategic communication expert and wrote this piece from Abuja.

The Director-General of NYSC Brig Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim, today made an emotional and historic visit to the writer and composer of the NYSC Anthem, Dr. Oluwole Adetiran at his Ibafo residence in Ogun State.

The visit was predicated on the news on the ill health of the great Music Legend who composed and produced the age-long NYSC anthem.

The Director General was received by the living music legend with joyous tunes from a group of choristers whom "Baba" himself has nurtured over time. The colourful reception was greeted by a majestic rendition of the 3-stanza NYSC Anthem, which Dr. Adetiran himself led in an astute orchestral manner.

The DG was full of praise for the man who single handedly composed what has now become a very famous anthem of the Nigerian youth in the NYSC Scheme. The Director General thanked Dr. Adetiran for this unforgettable, invaluable contribution to the Scheme via the composition of the Anthem.

Overwhelmed by the emotions of being recognised by the Chief Executive of NYSC, and the kind emotional words of the Director General to him, Dr. Adetiran then burst into tears of joy in appreciation of the visit. The Director-General assured him that the NYSC will forever stand by him and members of his family at all times. The NYSC Boss prayed to God Almighty to grant him speedy recovery and good health.

The Music Legend in appreciation, was full of excitement and fulfilment that the Director-General made out time to visit him and also thanked the Director General for sustaining the values of the scheme which motivated him to compose the Anthem in the first instance. He said "I am very proud to be part of the NYSC success story through the Anthem I composed. I am today fulfilled by this your visit"

The DG was accompanied by the Acting-Director, Special Duties and the State Coordinators of Ogun and Lagos.

FCT CORPS MEMBERS BEGIN ENUMERATION EXERCISE FOR THE NATIONAL HOME GROWN SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAMME.

Corps Members in the FCT have commenced the Enumeration exercise of the National Home Grown Feeding Programme.

The exercise which commenced on Tuesday July 13th saw the Enumeration exercise take place across a section of the FCT. These include schools in Bwari Central, Karshi, Gwagwalada Central and Lokogoma.

The LEA School Kutunku, LEA Gwako, Jahi Kadi Kuchi , LEA School for the blind Jabi and LEA Primary School Wuse, among others across Area Councils in the FCT, were issued the Enumeration Forms to start off the exercise.

The corps members are expected to carry out the enumeration process till Monday 19th July when the Programme closes. The following are photographs of the event.

By Adamu Adamu


It appears that journalism has been thrown to the dogs in Nigeria with the array of disjointed publications that we are subjected to every passing hour. It gets to the point that one of the worse nightmares one might experience is having to go through some supposed news mediums.
In this ignoble category is Sahara Reporters, which can best be described as a platform for blackmail and sale to the highest bidder. To start with, Omoyele Sowore, its publisher, is reputed for using his medium as an avenue to extort gullible victims. This is aside from the fact that there is no record anywhere where it was stated that he studied journalism or cut his teeth with any reputable news medium.
The best of him was that he studied Geography and Planning at the University of Lagos from 1989 to 1995, with his academic program extended by two extra years after being expelled twice for political reasons and student activism. That is the ABCD of Omoyele Sowore and Sahara reporters.
I am writing this piece in reference to a story published by Sahara Reporters with the caption “North-East Development Commission Managing Director, Alkali in Alleged Multi-Billion Naira Corruption Scandal", quoting a group named North East Vanguard.
After reading the news story, I almost puked with the way and manner such gibberish was put out for public consumption and without recourse to the sensibilities of some of us from North-East Nigeria, and also conversant with the operations of the North East Development Commission.
As a start, the group North East Vanguard is a shadowy one promoted by a group of nonentities, that is, if they truly exist. Consequently, their submission reads more like tales by moonlight because of the litany of incoherency. The group claimed to have unearthed massive corruption involving billions of naira at the NEDC.
They took their idiocy further by stating that "The Managing Director, Mohammed Goni Alkali, takes home as monthly salary, N8.5 million without recourse to the Salaries and Wages Commission, apart from a whopping N300 million as running cost for his office per annum.”
I was stunned that I wonder which of the Mohammed Goni Alkali they were referring to in their submission. I consoled myself that maybe it was another Mohammed Goni Alkali and not the one that heads the NEDC. I said to myself that it must have been a case of mistaken identity or outright mischief.
I think both could suffice in this case because it remains a figment of the imagination with other wild allegations that reads more like a poorly written Nollywood script. And I am not surprised the group could find a willing collaborator in Sahara Reporters to churn out their illusions about the operations of the NEDC under Mohammed Goni Alkali.
To put it mildly, the shadowy group merely rehashed the propaganda published by some disgruntled politicians sometime back, who felt entitled to the finances of the NEDC meant for humanitarian interventions, and since they could not have their way, they went berserk.
I trust Alkali not to respond to gibberish, which has been his posture in over a decade that I have known him. However, I elected to send a message through this piece to those who think Alkali succumbs to blackmail. My question is, do they even know who Mohammed Goni Alkali is? I don't think so because if they knew who he is in terms of character and posture, they would try another customer willing to play ball.
Instructively, as close as some of us are to him, we know the limits in terms of asking for favours that would make him bend the rules or subvert the process. We also know that once our request goes against the common good, it is dead on arrival, and as such, we do not bother to even make such requests in the first place.
I can’t count the number of persons he has cut ties with for daring to ask for favours that undermine the objectives of the NEDC. I am sure some of these persons are behind the slander campaign. And to think they can link hi, Alkali to corrupt practice is almost laughable. The corruption toga doesn't fit him because all of his years in private and public service, he has remained aloft as a stickler for upholding what is right and detesting what isn't right. And his leadership of the NEDC is not an exception.
Some of us are aware of how he has been managing the affairs of the NEDC and constantly put him in our prayers for God to see him through the onerous task of leading the implementation of the developmental blueprint for the North-East geo-political zone that had been ravaged by over a decade of insurgency.
The promoters of North East Vanguard must realize that this is a tough nut to crack. It would be in their best interest to desist from further malicious enterprise targeted at tarnishing the image of Mohammed Goni Alkali. They should instead channel their resources to more charitable ventures that would serve good to humanity.
And my candid advice to Mohammed Goni Alkali is that the threat is real, and he must not get distracted by their shenanigans. He must maintain focus with his eyes on the ball in his characteristic manner. This is not a time for distractions. If the so-called North-East Vanguard has any documentary evidence, they should do well to present it to the general public and not crying wolf where none exist.

Adamu is a development researcher and wrote from Yola.

No fewer than 10 civil society groups have dismissed allegations of multi-billion Naira corruption scandal against the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) and its Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali.

The CSOs, in a joint press statement co-signed by Comrade Lawrence Audu and Comrade Bassey Ukpong for the Good Governance and Advocacy Network (GGAN) on behalf of other groups, on Tuesday, said the North-East Vanguard and its cohorts aim to distract Alkali by peddling falsehood.

According to the CSOs, the allegations of embezzlement of funds by the NEDC's MD was based on assumption, without a single strand of confirmable evidence.

The statement noted that the North-East Vanguard has decided to ignore some of the achievements of the NEDC, including hundreds of projects under education, health, agriculture, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and other social infrastructures.

The groups also recalled how the commission partnered the Borno State Government and others in the region under the Rapid Response Intervention (RRI) programme to address the challenge of damaged infrastructure and other facilities.


The statement further rubbished alleged nepotism in employment levelled against the MD, noting the NEDC Governing Board has all the six geo-political zones represented.


The CSOs, however, advised NEV and their cohorts to do more research on NEDC's activities under Alkali and if possible visit the North-East to see for themselves.

Read the full statement below:

Patriotic Nigerians from across the country and beyond have unceasingly drawn the attention of the leadership of the Good Governance Advocacy Network (GGAN) over the sabotaging activities of some mercantile and self-acclaimed society watch groups. These sponsored veiled demonic forces are still politicking with the security of lives, and the ensuing peace in the Northeast region, where Boko Haram formerly occupied swathes of territories, especially in Borno state.

The same emergency mercantilist groups are back with venomous attacks on whoever is responsible for bringing immediate reprieve to the war-torn, displaced and impoverished people of the region like the Hon. Minister, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiq Umar Farouk. It is also manifest in the sustained malicious propaganda on unsubstantiated and spurious allegations of embezzlement of public funds by the Managing Director, North East Development Commission (NEDC), Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali.

We are astonished at the level some Nigerians can stretch in the promotion of blatant chicanery and destructive campaigns targeted at certain public officials. It is wittingly crafted to distract these public servants from ensuring President Muhammadu Buhari does not take the obvious glory of defeating the insurgency in the region and rebuilding destroyed infrastructures. GGAN has realized that the NEDC boss is the latest victim of these hatchet civil groups.

In the inner fold of these ganged-conspirators against the FGN and its hardworking appointees in sensitive places, is another ambiguous NGO or some sort of advocates, by an innocuously fading identity of “North-East Vanguard (NEV).” By their watery outbursts in a recent public statement, NEV truly comprises vanguards, proponents and crusaders of falsehood against the NEDC boss, in the most disgraceful and de-estimating manner of their self-worth.

How could sane leaders of a pressure group accuse a boss of a federal commission, with unbridled allegations of his embezzlement or diversion of multi-billion-naira funds of the commission without a single strand of confirmable evidence, but dangling fluid statements or assumptions or seeking the assistance of others to unearth the truth? It is tantamount to putting the cart before the horse and betrayal of their malicious agenda.

NEV’s only evidence was that when President Buhari last visited Borno state shortly after June 12 Democracy Day, none of NEDC’s projects was commissioned. But let’s ask ourselves, how many capital projects was Mr. President able to commission on the last visit to Borno from the bulk of 576 projects presented by Gov. Babagana Zulum? Just about seven! Was President Buhari in Borno to commission NEDC projects or who has told these misinformed and misdirected NEV leaders that NEDC never contributed a dime or partnered with the state in the completed projects in Borno. Is NEDC meant for Borno state alone or the Northeast region? What sort of lowly priced nitwits is NEV? We shall soon add a syllabus to the acronym of “NEV” to read, NEV-ER, as nowhere the conduct of government business is aligned or espoused by their simplistic reliance on assumptions.

The allegations bandied by NEV started resonating in the media in 2020. It's the same allegations, rejigged over and over. NEV has voiced nothing new on the tenure of the NEDC boss, Alh. Mohammed Goni Alkali. And contrary to the false claims by NEV, the inaugurated board of the North East Development Commission Education Endowment Fund (NEDC-EF) since August 7, 2020, has launched numerous interventionist programmes in the education sector beginning with the initial seed amount of N6billion same year and replenishable yearly in scholarships. It has targeted and is progressively reaching out to over 20,000 beneficiaries annually across the region, with an overall target of 150 beneficiaries on the template of access to academic and professional capacity development opportunities in diverse fields. This intervention has engaged over 5 000 bachelor’s degree, 336 masters and 54 doctorate degree candidates as well as training of teachers/civil servants.

The NEDC under Alhaji Alkali trains people of the region in skills and acquisition, provides starter packs to over 5 000 Information Communication Technology (ICT) trainees every year. It has empowered a whooping 5000 women and youths on entrepreneurship, and another 2000 others for vocational skills in each of the 1,028 wards in the Northeast. NEV will decline acknowledgement of these programmes because it is at variance with the deliberate agenda to diminish the gains of the NEDC in public space, by creating a deceptive impression of embezzlement.

Certainly, NEV officials who raised the unfounded alarm of alleged embezzlement of billions of naira budgeted for the NEDC have never set their foot anywhere in the Northeast for years. Or else, it is noticeable that some of the 576 projects displayed by Gov. Zulum during the Presidential visit in Borno, includes partnership with NEDC’s intervention initiatives on infrastructures under the Rapid Response Intervention (RRI) programme in addressing the challenge of damaged infrastructure and other facilities in 112 LGAs of the region. The NEDC aggressively executed 224 projects under education, health, agriculture, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and other social infrastructures in two years.

The relaxed silence of international organizations and other indigenous NGOs over the threat of massive famine and starvation in the insurgency ravaged region is because of NEDC’s active intervention through the Integrated Agriculture Programme (IAP). Through it, agricultural machinery and equipment, varieties of seedlings, fertilizers, agrochemicals and extension service logistics vehicles to enhance the production capacity of smallholder farmers in the region are provided. Nigerians must know, solving the problem of mass hunger in the region is not achievable within two years as envisaged by NEV, but a gradual process and the impact is commendable so far.

Therefore, it defeats sound logic for a faceless group that values, even its veiled identity or image to make sweeping allegations that the NEDC boss collects millions of naira monthly or yearly as salary or office impress. Its same pettiness which compels NEV to assume support operational vehicles NEDC donated to the Military and other security agencies in the region to enhance their security duties and duly approved by the NEDC Governing Board were inflated.

And most laughably, NEV accused the NEDC management led by Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali of nepotism in employment or is it “sourcing” for staff of the commission from MDAs by handpicking. But the NEDC Governing Board has all the six geo-political zones represented, in addition to other federal MDAs. It is unrealistic to think that all of the members are blind to Alkali’s “glaring” nepotism without raising an eyebrow.

Lastly, NEV and their cohorts should do more research and investigations on NEDC activities under Alkali. If the pressure group feels the House of Reps abandoned its probe of NEDC, there must be a reason. It's either they have found nothing worthwhile in the allegations or they are still investigating. But as usual, vilifiers like NEV would not like to speak about the glowing commendation of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, led by its chairman, Sen. Yusuf Abubakar on the Alkali-led NEDC management for its “outstanding performance” in humanitarian interventions in the region with these profound words, “…it is just one year, but it has performed tremendously well in the past year; especially in the area of humanitarian intervention.” The detractors can continue, but they won’t distract the focus of the NEDC boss from performance.

The National Youth Service Corps has said it will not relent in complying with the provisions of the freedom of Information Act.

It also said adequate measures have been put in place to entrench transparency and accountability in the day-to-day running of the Scheme.

NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim disclosed this today during the opening ceremony of NYSC Freedom of Information Act Desk Officers' Workshop in Abuja.

The workshop with the theme; "Boosting Government's Fight against Corruption through the Freedom of Information Act", was organised for NYSC FOIA Desk Officers from all the NYSC State Secretariats and NYSC National Directorate Headquarters, Abuja.

The Director-General commended the commitment and resourcefulness of the Desk Officers, as well as the entire workforce of the Scheme, which has contributed immensely to the modest heights attained so far.

Ibrahim said NYSC has remained commited to the successful implementation of the FOI Act since it came into effect in 2011, in compliance with the Federal Government's directive on the domestication of the Act by all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

"This, coupled with our effective feedback mechanism, ensure prompt response to all FOI requests and timely rendition of annual reports to the Federal Ministry of Justice over the years", the DG said.

He urged the Freedom of Information Act Desk Officers to build on the successes recorded, through greater dedication to duties and also assist Management in sensitizing other members of staff to continue to adhere to the work ethics of probity and accountability.

Speaking further, General Ibrahim advised the FOIA Desk Officers to intensify efforts in the discharge of their duties, in order to achieve the Scheme's target of becoming the leading agency in FOIA compliance.

He added that in line with the provisions of the NYSC Act on proactive disclosure, information on the operations of the NYSC are regularly posted and updated on the Scheme's website and social media platforms, in addition to the usage of the traditional media.

"It is heartwarming to note that as a result of the vision-driven commitment of the Press and Public Relations Unit and the tenacity of the Desk Officers, NYSC has earned recognition as one of the best performing agencies in the FOIA compliance ranking", the DG added.

Ibrahim also reiterated that NYSC Management would resist any attempt to threaten the integrity of the Scheme's operations and processes, including the mobilization, deployment, relocaction and posting of Corps Members, adding that the Scheme remains committed to protecting the lives Corps Members.

The Director, Press and Public Relations, Mrs Adenike Adeyemi, in her address said the NYSC FOIA Desk Officers' Workshop has become a yearly event in line with the Freedom of Information Act 2011, which prescribed continuous training and retraining of Desk Officers for optimal performance.

She said the Scheme has established FOIA Community Development Service groups in all its formations nationwide who engage in sensitizing members of the public on their rights under the Act.

"Recently, the FOIA CDS group in Ebonyi State was at the PRESCO High School, Abakaliki, where they sensitized the students on the FOI Act and the need to seek information from credible sources".

"The Gombe State FOIA CDS group did same at the Government Day Secondary Secondary School, Army Barracks in Gombe and was also at the National Orientation Agency Gombe, to seek collaboration to facilitate a wider reach for their awareness campaign", Adeyemi said.

Tinubu Support Group (TSG), a Political Group rallying support for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s Presidential ambition on Wednesday said it is confident that the National Leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will not back out from the 2023 Presidential election race because of his good intentions.

UMAR IBRAHIM MUHAMMED , Director General of the group said even though Tinubu has not formally informed them of his desire to contest, they are confident that he will not reject the offer when the time comes.

While dismissing The National Coordinator for Concerned Advocates for Good Governance (CAGG), Barrister Olusegun Bamgbose claims that the National Leader for the All Progressive Congress (APC) Party, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu is considering withdrawing from the 2023 Presidential race, Umar said Asiwaju is determined by his good intentions for Nigeria rather than dwelling on who support him or not.

“We are confident that he will contest. He will not back out from the Presidential race. He cannot back out because of his good intentions for Nigeria and upport accross the country, that will not make it possible for him to back out.

“What we need in Nigeria is someone like Asiwaju Tinubu, who knows everybody. Someone with large network, who has supported and nurtured people across all the zones, someone, who believes in making stars to unite Nigeria and a man with blue print of development for the country". Umar concluded

The Forum of Former Federal Lawmakers in Nigeria has decried the current state of insecurity in the country urging government to end the menace immediately.
The forum in a public notice suggested ways out of the logjam.
It said government must first correct perceived areas of injustice, exclusion, and economic alienation in the country as part of a robust solution to end insecurity.
The former federal lawmakers also advised that government must intensify dialogue with non-state actors in order to assuage frayed nerves across the nation and succeed in containing agitations, conflicts and insurgencies benefiting the society.
The former lawmakers said they were worried about the menace of farmers/herders clash and proffered ranching as the best solution to sedentary pastoralism.
Against the backdrop of the porousness of the nation's borders, the former federal lawmakers urged governments at all levels to scale up land border control measures.
It called on the Federal Government to issue a timeline during which to vanquish the Boko Haram insurgency amongst others, while also calling for an end to bloody secessionist agitations.

Nigeria's Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt. Gen. T.Y Buratai (rtd), has been appointed as the Patron of the National Forum of Ex-Councillors of Nigeria.

The group made this known on Tuesday after paying a visit to the former Army Chief in Damaturu, Yobe State.

According to a statement by the chairman of the State chapter, Abdulganiyu Mohammed, the ex-councillors choose Buratai due to his effort in restoring peace, security and development to communities in the state as well as the nation in general.

The group commended the former COAS for establishing many strategic military units and institutions in the northeast that further deter terrorist activities.

"Today, Tuesday, June 29, 2021, the Yobe State chapter of the National Forum of Ex-Councillors of Nigeria call on former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to the Republic of Benin, His Excellency, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), at the Government Lodge Damaturu. The team was led by the Chapter’s Chairman, Honourable Abdulganiyu Mohammed," the statement reads.

"In his remarks, the Chairman briefed H.E. about the aims and objectives of the association, adding that they are closer to the people. He also said they were there to show appreciation and gratitude to Lieutenant General Buratai (rtd) for his efforts as Chief of Army Staff from July 2015 to January 2021, which brought peace, security and development to their communities in Yobe State and Nigeria at large.

"They commended him for establishing many strategic military units and institutions in the northeast that further deter terrorist activities. The team further stated that they were to congratulate him for his well-deserved appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin and presented him with a letter of appointment and honour as Patron of the Forum".

Responding, Ambassador Buratai thanked them for a visit and accepted to serve as Patron of the Forum.

He also commended the delegation and members of the Forum for their continued commitment to peace and development in their wards, Yobe State and the nation.

He said that as grassroots people, Ward Councillors have a strategic role in supporting the Federal and State Governments in fostering peace and security in their respective wards.

By Kolawole Anthony

The latest confirmation of Lt. General Tukur Buratai (rtd) as a non-career ambassador to the Benin Republic has sent great shivers down the spines of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their splinter groups in the South-Eastern part of the country.

Against IPOB's belief, Buratai has proven himself qualified with unique skills. His vast wealth of experience as a war veteran, peacekeeper, administrator with efficiency in maintaining order and stability in conflict-ridden areas around the country, along with his untainted outstanding records set him apart in the eye of The National Parliament Screening and confirmation, Security Agency's check on personalities, and the Final Senate screening.

As part of the process before his confirmation, the members of the public were invited to submit petitions which would be either considered on the provision of worthy evidence or discarded when considered substantial. If culpable of the evidence, the particular nominee would eventually be disqualified.

All these formalities were satisfied, yet the IPOB and it's over 22 nebulous CSOs kept quiet. They neither wrote any petition against Buratai, nor showed their grievances in writing before his appointment, but now want to tarnish the image of the former Army Chief as one who supervised genocide in Nigeria is unfortunate and smacks of mischief.

The efforts made by malcontent members of the proscribed sect to degrade Buratai's image is a shameless act and goes against every principle of decency. It shows that the group is clueless and they are only out there to cause havoc and disorder under the disguise of having the interests of the Igbo people at heart.

In the third paragraph of their senseless letter, reference was made to the summary and links of what they termed "grave human rights violations and other conduct-atrocities" of T.Y Buratai when he served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff all of which are unverified accounts of allegations tabled against the ambassador. It is witless of them to have used such baseless links and unverified summaries of what they claim are Buratai’s sins as support to their false claims.

The efforts and struggles of the Nigerian Army should not be demeaned and denigrated by disgruntled members of this group. Most of their efforts have been tailored towards scandalizing several members of the Buhari-led administration including the president himself all in the name of fighting for a just cause.

All movement of calumny by this group against the ambassador will not be accepted. Their futile cries for justice against Buratai is foolish as it is condemnable.

It has been proven that Buratai’s tenure as the Chief of Army Staff is one earmarked by several victories against insurgency and the protection of human rights. The group is quick to forget that this same man who they have so shamelessly slandered for the violation of several human rights instituted an office in the Nigerian Army dedicated to the protection of human rights by the soldiers.

Most of their claims in the letter were unsubstantial and controversial in all regards. All those who signed such an appalling letter must be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to individuals who would like to try such in the future. Everyone has his or her right to express opinions, but accusing an individual without substantial proof is a hatchet job.

The IPOB have yet again proven itself to be an organization full of dishonesty, unclear practices and violence. It is this very group that accused the ambassador of violating human rights that were also responsible for several attacks on innocent citizens and government properties earlier this year. It is thus ridiculous to see such an organization accuse someone of crimes they are clearly guilty of.

The Report of April 27 concerning the spate of attacks on security forces in the southeastern part of Nigeria by the so-called harmless peaceful protesters as claimed by IPOB, had it that, there was a gun exchange by IPOB with the police before they were subdued by the intervention of troops, which later resulted in the killing of five security officers including two soldiers.

_"Unidentified men attacked the police station in the southern part of Okigwe town," Imo State police spokesman Orlando Ikokwu confirmed to AFP that, "Five policemen were killed while another is missing," he said. Residents of Okigwe, however, claimed to have seen the bodies of six slain policemen._

From evidence and eyewitnesses, authorities attributed this spiteful attack to the members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist group campaigning for Biafran independence.

The ambassador was also blamed for the EndSars protest which saw the shooting of some of the protesters at Lekki toll gate sometime in October last year. Such an accusation is baseless. It is an effort by IPOB to corner the purpose of the protest into their selfish gain and therefore uses it as a weapon to attack the Nigerian military and haul them in a negative light.

The actions of the IPOB are a clear example of rewarding good and selfless service with chagrin and ignominy. Buratai’s excellent career record is enough evidence to prove to the world that this was a man who served his country to the best of his abilities. During his tenure, he was at the forefront of protecting human rights that he instituted a human rights desk to ensure that his men comply with set rules of engagement to protect the human rights of individuals.

This same man carried out a campaign to improve civil-military relations between the Nigerian Army and host communities which saw to the provision of basic and social amenities in such communities some of which include a massive water project in Abakpa and the provision of farming implements to farmers in such communities. This campaign also saw the provision of free medical outreaches in several communities around the country. All these helped to improve the overall living standards of people in such communities and helped alleviate poverty to a great extent in such communities.

It is therefore obvious that their vile agitation for freedom and their spurious attack on the personality of our dear Ambassador Buratai is borne out of the fear of blocking their core source of weaponry and ammunition supplies, which have been through borders that stood as a channel of support from their members in other countries.

Being befuddled and knowing how he had curbed their nefarious activities on many occasions in the past, the Indigenous People of Biafra had foreseen greater destruction lying ahead for them. Therefore, they resolved to use evil strategies, and different means to pull the Nigerian Ambassador to the Benin Republic, Buratai, out of that sensitive position.

What is best befitting for Ambassador TY Buratai is a Nobel peace prize, a great honour of service to his country and mankind, a peacemaker, and a great icon.

This is a man that deserves every accolade for a job well done in saving lives and properties. A selfless patriot that took an uncountable risk by endangering his life just to secure peace and unity in Nigeria.

He has earned great recognition and should be inducted into the country's HALL OF FAME. All these, we believe he would get someday.

Kolawole PhD wrote this piece from Keffi.

*Seme Border: Group charges Amb Buratai to facilitate healthy trade relations, national security between Nigeria/Benin Republic*

... passes vote of confidence on Nigeria’s envoy to the Benin Republic

Nigeria's Ambassador to the Benin Republic, Amb Tukur Buratai, has been tasked to swiftly hit the ground running, enhancing trade relations and trans-border security between both nations, especially around the Seme Border.

Passing a vote of confidence on the former Chief of Army Staff, the Nigeria First movement said Amb Buratai is tailor-made for the job owing to his vast experience in military and diplomacy.

Lt. Gen Buratai (rtd) and immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Abayomi Olanisakin (rtd) were on Tuesday presented with letters of credence as envoys to Benin and Cameroon respectively.

And according to Nigeria First, Buratai's confirmation shows that President Muhammadu Buhari was satisfied with his performance as COAS, having effectively flushed out insurgents and other criminal elements from the North-East and other parts of the country.

Speaking on behalf of the group at a press conference on Friday in Abuja, Secretary-General, Comrade Augustine Richard Adie, noted that Buratai's appointment is a welcome development at a time the nation's border is under several threats.

Adie added that with Buratai, trade relations between the two countries will be strengthened more than ever, leading to more foreign exchange for Nigeria.

Recalling his stint as Army chief, Adie hailed Buratai for a successful campaign against insurgency in the country which has translated to peace and security to several parts especially in the once-troubled North-East

He, however, advised members of the opposition party and other disgruntled individuals to stop the campaign aimed to malign Buratai’s image.

Expressing total confidence in his ability, the group called on all Nigerians to extend support for the country's new Ambassador to the Benin Republic.

Read the full statement below:

Nigeria First, heartily congratulates Ambassador, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd) on his recent appointment. We are happy to finally acknowledged that "the Best man for the job has finally arrived".

Knowing about the way Nigerians have continuously expressed their enraged feelings about the matters of insecurity in the country, ever since when Boko Haram insurgency has taken the country unaware since 2009 when they began a violent campaign in North-East Nigeria, everyone now believes in every reason to tighten up our security portals.

Having fought a good fight to subdue and weaken internal terrorism and banditry in the country, President Muhammadu Buhari took a great strategic move on this appointment because he was satisfied with your performance and your great knowledge of international diplomacy.

Therefore, Mr President saw the need to expand frontiers in the war against insurgency in the country, which in our opinion culminated in the appointment of the former service chiefs as non-career ambassadors to galvanize the much needed regional support at addressing the threat posed by the Boko Haram insurgents.

For the record, Nigeria has never experienced a much peaceful time as compare to when Buratai was Chief of Army Staff since the rampage of Book Haram had begun.

Nigeria is still battling insurgency even with the change of Service Chiefs that most Nigerians had clamoured for. And was that the solution? Has that changed anything?

Instead, the situation has remained stagnant and getting worse as some stipulated by many.

The appointment of Ty Buratai is a welcome development in terms of the development of diplomacy and national security.

His appointment at a time when Nigeria’s border is under several threats is a wise decision made by the administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari. This move is vital and strengthens trade relations between the two countries.

Buratai is the ideal candidate for this position owing to his vast intellect and diplomatic skills. The current position to which he has been recently appointed must be handled delicately. It requires someone with profound intellect and experience. We are happy that Buratai has been chosen as the man for the job.

This is a man that served the country as a military leader without a blemish on his entire career. This is the right reward for a man who has served his country diligently and to the best of his abilities. This is a man who has given his all to the nation and we have no doubt that he will do the same in his current position.

However, despite the flawless record of this man, his appointment has been bathed with opprobrium by several individuals who believe that he is not fit for the job for several reasons best known to them. There have also been several claims that his appointment is all in a bid to protect him from prosecution for crimes wrongfully alleged against him. These, we believe are the evil efforts of several members of the opposition party and other disgruntled individuals to sully Buratai’s image. These individuals have failed to see the bigger picture but have instead chosen to allow politics and senseless sentiments to blindfold them. These individuals are only after their interest instead of national interest. Nigeria is currently in a delicate situation presently. The country has been plagued by insecurity and corruption amongst others and senseless political propaganda should not be added to the list.

Buratai’s appointment is a promising development as it has a lot of potential advantages, one of which is the fact that the former chief of Army Staff has a vast network of friends and acquaintances globally. This is a great boost in terms of diplomacy and will be very beneficial in his current position.

Buratai has a lot of unique skills in his arsenals such as his vast wealth of experience as a war veteran, a peacekeeper, an administrator and his efficiency in maintaining order and stability in conflict-ridden areas around the country. These skills will be very vital when it comes to his orchestration of diplomatic relationships and strategy.

Let us all not be quick to forget his successful campaign against insurgency in the country and how he managed to bring peace and security to several parts of the country especially in the northeast. During his reign as the chief of army staff, he moved his base to the forefront of the war where he managed to defeat and wipe out many terrorists especially the one hidden in the enclaves of the Sambisa forest.

Instead of the fight against insecurity, those of us familiar with the dynamics and state of play in the international arena will see the wisdom behind his appointment. It is a wise move to involve the international community in the fight against terrorism and banditry by appointing an individual who is conversant with the necessities of Nigeria and the various areas in which support is needed.

It is well known that the trans-border security between Nigeria and the Benin Republic is quite low and has been plagued by smugglers and bandits. Buratai’s experience when it comes to tackling insecurity is thus priceless in dealing with border security between Nigeria and the Benin Republic. His diplomatic skills are also sure to improve trade relations between the two countries.

Several businessmen and women have been clamouring over the closure of the Nigeria-Benin Republic border and have explained how the border closure has affected their business. We can boldly say to you all that have faith in Buratai as all issues regarding the Border closure and trade relations will soon be resolved.

Nigeria’s lost revenue to the Benin Republic has been a troubling issue to the country. It goes without saying that no nation can survive without its foreign exchange earnings and Nigeria is in no way an exception. We are certain that the ambassador will employ his sagacity and diplomatic skills to see to the re-opening of the Nigerian-Benin Republic border as soon as possible.

Buratai has been a loyal and patriotic servant to the people of Nigeria. His records and portfolio are excellent. He boasts a lot of skills, expertise and experience. He made incredible contributions towards the establishment of the Nigerian Amry University which greatly improved pedagogic approaches towards tackling insurgency in the country. His leadership boosted the morale of the Nigerian army and greatly influenced the war against insurgency. The time he served as a service chief has been widely regarded as one of the most productive in the annals of the Nigerian army. Under his leadership, the Nigerian army was rated high as regards human rights compliance by various international bodies. This was achieved as a result of his establishment of human rights offices to address issues regarding human rights violations by officers. This is another example of the insight the man portrays.

Nigeria plays a strategic leadership role in Africa and the appointment of a man as sagacious and experienced as TY Buratai ensures that Nigeria cements its place as the giants and leaders in the African continent. It is well known to all that Nigeria is a country looked up to owing to its portfolio, thus, the appointment of Buratai as a representative in the Republic of Benin is a step in the right direction.

It makes much strategic sense because we would be sure that Buratai would put his wealth of knowledge to bear, especially in addressing some of the issues of concern for the country regarding Boko Haram getting logistics support outside the country.

Ambassador Tukur Buratai remains a great asset to our country because of his deep foresight on national security. He is also a military historian, and thus good that he has offered himself once again in service to the country.

Nigeria First expresses total confidence in Buratai as a model of patriotism and chauvinism. His many accomplishments are a testament to the fact that his appointment was the right decision by the current administration. We call on all Nigerians to extend their support to the newly appointed ambassador rather than greet his appointment with baseless criticisms. Let us also continue to provide our endless support to the current President of this great nation and his administration as they work tirelessly for the growth and development of Nigeria.

God Bless President Buhari, God Bless Nigeria.

Football is a game that brings people of all race and colours of life coming together to not only play for a goal but as a form of entertainment and exercise. This is totally not different from the crop of personalities in the Abuja9800 Sports Club who weekly come out to exercise, bond, network and entertain themselves in different sporting activities.

Abuja9800 Sports Club is an organization that has been in existence for over eight years in the city of Abuja participating in football activities, social activities and most especially organizing Corporate Social Responsibilities in FCT.

Going from all of these the club is now set to flag off the maiden edition of its football league competition which promises to be competitive, exciting and a refreshing moment. The league will begin on Saturday the 26th of June 2021 and will be played every last Saturday of every month until December 2021 where the final match will be played to wrap up the clubs' activities for the year 2021 coupled with a CSR event and Family Party.

Speaking to newsmen after the final meeting with the League Management Committee is the Chairman of the Club Mr Inem Uwah who expressed his satisfaction with the plans; Mr Uwah echoed " I am super excited about the plans so far and the league in itself which we as management of the club together with the League Management Committee have taken time to draw out modalities for the league. I also want to use the opportunity to thank our partners for supporting our club and ensuring that the league comes to reality. Let me also invite our friends and lovers of football to join us every last Saturday of the month for our league matches or every Saturday and Tuesday for our regular training"

In the same vein, the Special Assistant on youth and sports to the interim Administrator/CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Engr Udengs Eradiri whose office is a proud sponsor of the Abuja9800 Football League also addressed newsmen after the meeting; Engr Eradiri said " This is another opportunity for us at the NDDC to support laudable football events like this because we believe it is an opportunity to give young people from the Niger Delta region who reside in the Federal Capital Territory to showcase their football talents to scouts who will be a part of the audience at the event. We are in full support of the success of this event and we will ensure that more Niger Deltans participate in footballing events"

The league will have some Ex Internationals and Abuja scrabble lords who will be playing scrabble on the side as side attractions. A trophy, medal and cash prize of N500,000 will go to the league winners, golden boot to the highest goal scorer and some other prizes will be won in the course of the league.

By Mark Bonaventure

Nigeria is somewhat experiencing security challenges that are not surprising because there are various factors responsible for it. In this case, I would say the Boko Haram insurgency took the country unaware since 2009 when the Boko Haram group began a violent campaign in North-East Nigeria.

The Nigerian Military has been actively involved, recording gains and setbacks simultaneously because it's asymmetric warfare and not the conventional. The implication of this is that there has to be a constant review of operational strategies because insurgencies worldwide are dynamic and evolve every passing day.

I recall that insurgent activities were aimed at security agencies from the onset of the Boko Haram insurgency. From there, it metamorphosed into hostage-taking. It further transformed into targeting women and children and establishing a caliphate. And today, one cannot point to the actual aim of the insurgents because they have continually engaged the Military in fierce battles.

This fact was corroborated by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, when he stated that the Boko Haram insurgency might not end in 20 years. I recall when he made that statement; most Nigerians didn't comprehend the import of his message because they were not knowledgeable of the dynamics in asymmetric warfare.

He said the terrorists had indoctrinated the people for a long time, making it difficult to defeat them within a short period. He also stated that political and socio-economic factors need to be addressed, adding that many communities in northern Nigeria lacked basic amenities.

With the benefit of hindsight, he was right because Nigeria is still battling insurgency even with the change of Service Chiefs that most Nigerians had clamoured. And was that the solution? Has that changed anything? I still believe that the change of service chiefs was meant to rejig the operational strategies and not because of non-performance as some section of the country would want us to believe.

It could thus be argued that it was a strategic move by the President because there was a need to expand frontiers in the war against insurgency in the country, which in my opinion culminated in the appointment of the former service chiefs as non-career ambassadors to galvanize the much needed regional support at addressing the threat posed by the Boko Haram insurgents.

It was thus speculated that Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai has been posted to the Benin Republic to galvanize support from the West African country. If that news is eventually accurate, it makes much strategic sense because we would be sure that Buratai would put his wealth of knowledge to bear, especially in addressing some of the issues of concern for the country regarding Boko Haram getting logistics support outside the country.

I also wish to emphasize that Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai remain an asset to the county because of his deep foresight on national security. I am sure many do not know. He is also a military historian. It is thus good that he has offered himself once again in service to the country. I dare say that not many would be readily available because he just left one of the most daunting offices in the country in retirement.

It was expected that he would devout his retirement time with his family, but that is not the case, as he has continued in service to the country. I think it high time the country celebrates such individuals. His records in the Nigerian Army are exceptional. Under his tenure, substantial gains were recorded in the war against insurgency and other forms of criminalities.

This act is what I would call patriotism, and I believe with time, all those that saw him in a different light would come around to appreciate him for his display of love for the country. The example of Buratai is one in many cases of Nigerians that have been committed to the growth and development of the country, but he stands out hence this article.

I also need to remind us that such practices are prevalent in developed nations, where individuals with outstanding public records remain helpful to the country even in retirement. And Nigeria should not be left out because the security challenges in the country require that we explore all available avenues towards the restoration of peace and stability.

This, in my opinion, would significantly provide answers to the national security question in the country when we realize that times have changed and there is the need for regional and international collaboration in addressing security challenges.

To put it simply, the involvement of the likes of Buratai with years of experience would assist in no small measure in ensuring that the question of galvanizing regional support for Nigeria in the war against insurgency at the diplomatic level is achieved.

At this point, Nigerians must come to terms with the reality that guns and tanks are not the only potent weapon of war. Diplomacy also plays a critical role. Diplomacy translates military triumph into new arrangements. It implies war planning and the conduct of war in accordance with a strategy that unites political, economic, informational, and intelligence measures with military actions and a well-crafted plan for war termination.

Diplomacy is also the art of pursuing internationally possible. It involves the unpleasant task of interacting persuasively with usually disagreeable adversaries and sometimes tedious friends. I am reminded of the story of a former US ambassador to the Soviet Union, Mac Toon, who went aboard an aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean for a meeting with the admiral who commanded its battle group. At the end of their discussion, the admiral leaned over to ask, "What’s it like being an ambassador? I've always thought that after I retire, I might want to try it." Ambassador Toon replied, "that's funny. I've always thought that, when I retire, I might try my hand at running a carrier battle group." The admiral said, "That's ridiculous. A naval command requires years of training and experience." But so do the management of foreign policy and diplomacy if the ship of state is not to be sailed onto the rocks or beached in the desert.

In the case of Nigeria, if we build a diplomatic capability with our neighbours to match our military prowess, we will gain a fundamental building block of national strategy towards addressing the Boko Haram insurgency in the country. And this, in my considered opinion, represents what the ambassadorial appointments of the likes of Buratai would avail the country.

Therefore the time to act is now in our quest towards bringing the Boko Haram insurgency to an end. I can vouch that we are on the right course with a man like Buratai and his wealth of experience. Needless I say more.

Bonaventure is a public affairs analyst and wrote from Badagry.

On Thursday 17th June 2021, the FCT Tax Practitioners Association elected a new executive members that will lead the association for the next two years.


The immediate past Chairman of the association Dr Kennedy Iwundu while handing over to the new Chairman of the association, Mr Joseph Odua urged the new exco to continue on the fight of ensuring that tax payers and tax consultants rights and privileges are protected in line with the provisions of the tax laws.


It could be recalled that Dr Kennedy Iwundu was elected on June 2017 and was re-elected in June 2019. His tenure came to an end June 2021.

FCT Tax Practitioners Association is made up of ICAN, ANAN and,CITN members who are tax consultants in FCT, Abuja.


The association has been very proactive especially under the leadership of Dr Kennedy Iwundu in ensuring that relevant tax authorities carry out tax administration in line with the provisions of tax laws and policies.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement (INM) has called on the Chief of Army Staff, Major Gen Farouk Yahaya to reintroduce special operations towards curbing the escalating rate of crime and criminalities experienced in the South-East.

The group made the call on Wednesday at a press conference comprising of stakeholders from each state in the region.

In his address titled 'The Call for Special Operations in South-East Nigeria by the Nigerian Army', Secretary-General, JohnBosco Ike, said this is necessary to curtail the worrisome rise in insecurity in the zone by various secessionist agitations.

Ike said they can no longer watch in silence as innocent lives are truncated for selfish reasons by a group whose agenda promotes their selfish interest to the detriment of all Igbos in Nigeria.

He noted that the urgent intervention of the Nigerian Army is necessary to restore law and order.

The group recalled the impact of army operations such as Operations Crocodile Smile and Python Dance that successfully addressed security challenges such as kidnappings, ritual killings, and other criminalities in the region.

While commending troops for previous interventions, the group vowed to stage a peaceful protest to the National Assembly and the Army headquarters in the full glare of the public if the Army fail to rescue its people.

Read the full address below:

We welcome you all to this press conference with all protocols duly observed. We recognize the presence of critical stakeholders in this press conference with gratitude given the short notice.

We must agree that events in South-East Nigeria are indeed worrisome given the acts of criminality that have gained prominence in recent times. Therefore, as concerned stakeholders in the South East region, with members representing every state in the region, called this press conference to press home demand for the immediate intervention of the Nigerian Army towards curtailing the declining state of security perpetuated by some groups and individuals whose motives remain suspect and from all indications meant to distort the socio-economic development of the South East region.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement would not watch in silence as innocent lives are truncated for selfish reasons by a group whose agenda promotes their selfish interest to the detriment of all Igbos in Nigeria.

We are worried and therefore left with no option to seek the urgent intervention of the Nigerian Army in the restoration of law and order in the South East region of Nigeria. However, we have consulted widely with our members from wide and far and conclude that there is an urgent need for the intervention of the Nigerian Army through the reintroduction of special operations.

Our considered opinion is that the reintroduction of special operations as in times past would go a long way in addressing the various secessionist agitations that are being propagated by a group of opportunists who do not mean well for the South East region.

We recall the impact of army operations such as Operations Crocodile Smile and Python Dance that successfully addresses security challenges such as kidnappings, ritual killings, and other criminalities in the South East region.

We must admit that the success of the various operations cannot be overemphasized, and the relative peace and tranquillity that pervaded the South East region as a result of the intervention was indeed welcomed by critical stakeholders, including the Igbos in Nigeria Movement.

It is, therefore, on the strength of the success of previous operations that the leadership of the Igbos in Nigeria Movement is making this passionate appeal to the leadership of the Nigerian Army to see to the reintroduction of army operations in South-East Nigeria.

This is cognizant that the South East region is presently under siege. Therefore, it will be a great disservice to the peaceful and loving people of the South East region if the leadership of the Nigerian Army does not introduce once again special operations in these trying times.

The leadership of the Nigerian Army must also realize that its previous special operations had brought about peace and stability in the region, which the people of the South East region were appreciative of.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement wish to state that should the leadership of the Nigerian Army fail to act on our request in reintroducing special operations to curb the growing tension in the South East region, we shall be left with no choice but to stage a peaceful protest to the National Assembly and the Army headquarters in the full glare of the public.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement wishes to remind the leadership of the Nigerian Army that the South East region is a part of Nigeria. As such, there should be efforts at deploying strategies towards addressing the security challenges in the region by the Nigerian Army through special operations.

The leadership of the Nigerian Army cannot feign ignorance of the security challenges in the South East region. Consequently, the leadership of the Nigerian Army cannot state that it can't make interventions towards addressing the security challenges in the region.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement, in the light of the above, stated is making this passionate plea to the leadership of the Nigerian Army to come to the rescue of the South East region by reintroducing special operations in fairness to the people of the South East region.

Our plea is hinged on the necessity to see to the restoration of peace, which would go a long way in the socio-economic well-being of the South East region. Our faith and belief in the Nigerian Army remain sacrosanct.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement is using this medium to appreciate the leadership of the Nigerian Army for its various interventions in times past that has resulted in peace and tranquillity in the South East region.

We desire that in the coming weeks and months, the leadership of the Nigerian Army shall deem it necessary and urgent to see to the reintroduction of special operations to address the security challenges in the South East region.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement remains supportive of the operations of the Nigerian Army over the years. Consequently, our appreciation knows no bound in this regard.

At this point, we also solicit the support of other critical stakeholders to see to the materialization of this request in the interest of peace and tranquillity.

We thank you all for your time and attention.

The National Anti- Corruption Watch (NACW) has urged the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami not to interfere in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's probe of Brigadier General Jafaru Mohammed, the Director of Finance and Administration in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

Following Mohammed's petition to the AGF, the group urged Malami against using his office to shield persons of interest in corruption probes from being investigated.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Aboki Sulyman, on Tuesday, the NACW said Mohammed must be accountable, especially for industrial-scale looting of the money meant for purchasing arms and military hardware under the National Security Adviser.

Rather than hamper investigation, the group urged the AGF to prevail on Jafaru Mohammed to cooperate with investigators so that he can speed up his appearance in court if indicted.

The group, however, vowed to follow up the probe, adding that it would recourse to all available legal means to ensure that justice must prevail.

Read the full statement below:

The National Anti- Corruption Watch (NACW) is concerned to learn about the petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by one Brigadier General Jafaru Mohammed, the Director of Finance and Administration in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

We are worried that, of all possible defences, Jafaru Mohammed alleged “witch-hunt and personal vendetta” as a reason for the EFCC investigation. This is nothing but a shallow attempt at turning the truth on its head.

NACW appeals to the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to whom Jafaru Mohammed’s petition was addressed, not to lend his office out for shielding persons of interest in corruption probes from being investigated.

We expect the Minister of Justice and Nigerians at large to note that the kind of blackmail contained in the said petition is a staple of those that once looted this country to the point of bankruptcy. While not advocating for the rights and freedom of citizens to be arbitrarily abridged, it is pertinent to also insist that those found to have been tainted with corruption in the course of serving the country are properly investigated and tried when indicted.

Nigerians must not forget too soon that the industrial-scale looting of the money meant for purchasing arms and military hardware under the National Security Adviser, whom Jafaru Mohammed served, was responsible in large part for the security challenges facing the country today. It is therefore a travesty that the person who held the purse while our commonwealth was looted can now be alleging witch-hunt and vendetta.

NACW, therefore, calls on the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami to allow the investigation of Brigadier General Jafaru Mohammed to continue without distractions as this is what his petition amounts to.

Nigeria wants Malami to allow EFCC to function without Interference as this is the only approach that will enable to the country rout corruption, which has remained the greatest problem facing the country. Rather than hampering investigation into the activities of the Director of Finance and Administration in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Attorney-General should rather prevail on Jafaru Mohammed to cooperate with investigators so that he can speed up his appearance in court if indicted.

NACW consequently puts the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice on notice that we would be closely watching the handling of Jafaru Mohammed’s petition to ensure that is it not used as smokescreen for eroding the independence of EFCC and cripple its ability to thoroughly investigate corruption. If Nigerians can establish interference on the part of the AGF, NACW will recourse to all available legal means to ensure that such unacceptable behaviour is halted before it does damage the credibility of the anti-corruption agency.

By Tommy Oshie
 
A driver took his passengers on a journey. He actually bragged that it would be a fun-filled pleasurable ride. But in no long time into the journey the vehicle was lurching on the hills and falling steeply on the slopes without control; the vehicle got to a point of no movement. The passengers got disturbed how the vehicle finally got stuck in the mud and could not maneuver nor even rev. It became more disappointing how the passengers discovered that the driver had long fallen asleep and his assistants not even knowing what to do. Trust passengers and how they can start spewing expletives more so as they just alighted from a previous vehicle of a certain good driver on the propaganda that this present driver would solve their eagerness and take them to the New Jerusalem. Unfortunately, they have found themselves in Gehenna. The passengers are looking downcast particularly as they look from the rear mirror viewing where they are coming from and how they can get out of the present perdition. The quest for a skillful driver to take them out of the quagmire is now on the lips of everyone. They now recall that the driver whose vehicle they alighted from was actually the person who knows the route.
The message is that you should be careful not to lose a good man because another person promised to be better.
The above allegory points out the present situation of Nigeria. There came a time in Nigeria when the only panacea to the country’s problems was in the hands of the 2015 elections. Nigerians were made to understand that they were in needless sufferings. Nigerians were brainwashed to become self sorry and that an incoming messiah tincture against the sitting president was difficult to diffuse. By then there was a strong fiat that the sitting President must not be re-elected. The opportunity cost of his re-election was that Nigeria must be divided between those who wanted him and those who did not. Decorum was actually flung away to the winds. Incidentally, Boko Haram bombings were given media amplifiers. Instead of partnering with the system the opposition saw that it was mission accomplished.
They celebrated the collective pain and presented themselves as the best alternative. Lest it is forgotten, the kidnapping of Chibok girls personally rested squarely on someone’s head rather than a national calamity. The opposition even made mouth-watering promises to those helping them to give the system a bad name and would obliterate them within six months once they come to power. What a strange team of mutual benefit!
And that was how he was battered in the media; maltreated by those he treated well; betrayed by those he thought actually loved him. To cut a long story short, that was how Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was voted out as the President of Nigeria in 2015. And all he could say was ‘Peace be with you’.
The fulcrum of this piece does not bother on the inexhaustible achievements of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan nor does it dwell on how to compare or contrast with this present government even though at times there is need to look at the rear mirror to know where we are coming from. Let us look at one of his monumental policies that would have made Nigeria great again. Early in his government, Goodluck wanted to vitiate the oil industry to market determinants. That move almost brought his government down. That move provoked a sponsored industrial strike action which success can only be akin to that of the colonial days. The said industrial action was actually spearheaded by the people in power today. They goaded us to do more about the strike. They analysed, and gave talks on how Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was impoverishing Nigerians. The message then was that subsidy was actually a fraud and that the price of fuel was supposed to be ordinarily cheap.
Today the table has turned. They did not even have to refer to any document to adopt his policy on the petroleum industry, even though they do not know how to go about it.
ASUU could be judged to be one of the best discordant agents in Goodluck’s government, accusing it of not doing well in education. Six years gone after Goodluck, the 2020 ASUU strike is unprecedented. Is that Goodluck’s government too? Has education been fixed?
Nepotism! The present government is characterized with nepotism. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan never had such characteristics. As a matter of fact, when he went back home after he lost the 2015 elections, his people almost hurled stones at him. What was his sin? He did not give them juicy positions. The northerners benefited from Goodluck more than his own region. His educational programmes and investments in the north can only be compared to that of Sir Ahmadu Bello of blessed memory.
The freedom of speech in pre-2015 is now hate speech. Should we talk about the consumer price index? Has banditry not dwarfed Boko Harm? While Boko Harm holds a particular area as their stronghold, kidnappers and bandits have unlimited territories. Even with your spare parts in your trunk, you don’t wish your car to break down on the highway. Even with your fence twice as high you still live in grip of fear in your house. You cannot even look out from your windows. ICPC is investigating missing 50 billion dollars and 500 billion naira from the TSA without a trace. This is not happening in Goodluck’s government. The list is inexhaustible abeg.
That same Goodluck was almost not bold enough to enter certain states in the north despite his huge security, but today he makes triumphant entries into same states with chants of hossanah. There are cries of Ka dawo! Ka dawo! everywhere, meaning just come back. This is evident in Sokoto, Kano, Bauchi, Maiduguri, you name them. Apologies drench the air wherever he goes today in the north. It could be recalled how Governor Ganduje mentioned that Sanusi Lamido was appointed the Emir of Kano just to embarrass Goodluck. Today, same Ganduje is screaming out his own apologies. Senator Ali Ndume has sent his apologies. Kawu Baraje made an open act of contrition on how he drove away Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
This is not a cheap drive to remind Nigerians of the present socio-economic calamities and to dangle alternatives. But truth be told, he is presently the most welcomed visitor to the State House. That is the good spirit that has endeared Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to the generality of Nigerians and the reason Ka dawo rents the air when he visits the north.
Right now, the country is in some dire straits. It is boxed to a corner. There is a serious political fog on who to bell the cat. All the passengers on the vehicle are now looking at the rear mirror. Questions are being thrown at one another: how did we get here? Where did we miss it? Why did we reject a good driver for a wrong choice? How can we get someone to maneuvre this vehicle away from here? Where can we get that very good driver we rejected, apologize to him so that he comes back to help us out?
The person to emerge as a President cone 2023 has become a delicate national discourse that goes to touch on the corporate existence of Nigeria. This serious debate has placed Goodluck Ebele Jonathan at an indispensable pedestal. No need to grope. Him becoming President would usher in an interregnum for Nigeria to gasp a breath and reboot a new national issue. His coming back would have curried an effortless national reconciliation. It is very important at this stage particularly now that the Buhari government has killed the communia, the fellowship of this country as it is now a laissez-faire leadership.
Truth be told, the Nigeria populace is having venerational memories of the person of Goodluck Jonathan. With his status now, he needs no godfather outside the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) 1999. As a matter of fact, the godfathers are also on that vehicle begging him for mercy. The other passengers on the vehicles that are looking behind to Goodluck are the military, civil servants, agberos, contactors, housewives, ASUU, ASUP, civil societies, banks, IDPs, farmers, members of the intelligentsia, judges, etc. The list is endless abeg.
 
Oshie Tom is a legal practitioner, researcher and public affairs analyst.

Tinubu support group have described Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as fit as a fiddle while debunking the rumour on the internet that Tinubu is seriously ill.

Speaking in a press release, the group's Head of Media and Publicity, Oluwatosin Johnson said Asiwaju was never sick but on a trip abroad. He added that he was asking God to forgive those who enjoy to wish people bad.

“ Asiwaju is as fit as a fiddle,” He added: “There was nothing wrong before he left the country.

" It's very shocking and sad that there are people with speculations about Asiwaju's health. This is a sign of the lack of trust people have for leadership in the country.

“We find the idle chatter on some online sites about the alleged ill-health of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu amusing. That some idle minds have continued to perpetuate this absolute falsehoold to the point of the ridiculous is disgusting. They deserve our prayers for wishing what is not for someone else.

“For the records, Tinubu is in great shape and his associates who see him and speak with him know this. He traveled abroad will return to the country any moment and those that wish him dead will be put to shame.” the group concluded.

No Nigerian persecuted over religion, group replies ex-US Secretary of State

The Young Christian Forum of Nigeria (YCFN) has rubbished a report by the former United States Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, wherein he alleged that 1,500 Christians was killed in the last six months.

The group, in a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Roland Effah, on Tuesday said no Nigerian was persecuted for their religious belief as claimed by Pompeo.

Describing the report as misleading, the YCN noted that the motive is to cause religious disharmony in the country, pitting Christians against other groups.

Effah said by this action, Pompeo has displayed his bias and irritability with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its efforts so far at ensuring religious harmony in Nigeria.

According to the Christian forum, Mike Pompeo is out on a slander campaign, given that any empirical evidence cannot back his position.

The group, therefore, advised Pompeo to consult religious stakeholders in the country whenever he feels the urge to contribute to the discourse about Nigeria and desist from illogical conclusions.

It warned the ex-US Secretary of State and his co-travellers to desist from their despicable plot as Nigerians are not that gullible not to see the handwriting on the wall.

The group, however, urged Nigerians to rise in defence of their county in these trying times and not allow despicable elements to succeed in sowing the seed of discord amongst them.

Read the full statement below:

The leadership of the Young Christian Forum of Nigeria warmly welcome all and sundry to this press conference converged in light of the recent report released by Mike Pompeo, a former secretary of state of the United States of America, wherein he mischievously alleged that Christians in Nigeria had been targeted for extinction, adding that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, is not doing enough to protect religious freedom.

The Young Christian Forum of Nigeria views such allegations as a collective insult of the sensibilities of the various religious groups in Nigeria because the report is laced with mischief and a well-orchestrated attempt at puncturing religious harmony in Nigeria.

A critical look at the report reveals that Mike Pompeo ventured into an area he lacked adequate knowledge. It is, therefore, bemusing that a former high ranking official of the United States of America could issue such a misleading report without minding the consequences of his actions on the psyche of the adherents of various religious groups in Nigeria.

Thus, our considered opinion that Mike Pompeo has, by his action, displayed his bias and irritability with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its efforts so far at ensuring religious harmony in Nigeria.

The Young Christian Forum of Nigeria also frowns at the deliberate attack on the Muhammadu Buhari led administration, where he alleged that the Buhari administration had suppressed the news of the killings of Christians by masking it as a farmer-herder crisis. This is unfortunate.

Our position remains that Mike Pompeo is out on a slander campaign, given that any empirical evidence cannot back his position. Instead, a display of ignorance and playing to the gallery with an issue of such sensitivity.

Mike Pompeo is hell-bent on sowing the seed of discord amongst the various religious groups in the country for reasons best known to him and his paymasters for whatever it is worth.

The Young Christian Forum of Nigeria uses this medium to send a message to Mike Pompeo that he can't be more Nigerian than Nigerians. He should do well to cross-check information gleaned from blogs and his paid foot soldiers to preserve whatever is left of his reputation.

The Young Christian Forum of Nigeria wishes to advise Mike Pompeo to devout more time and energy in studying the history of the farmers-herder conflict in Nigeria to realise that it predates the Muhammadu Buhari administration. He must also do well to recognise that the press in Nigeria is vibrant, and there is no way such killings can go unreported, as he has alluded in his mischief laced report.

Consequently, the Young Christain Forum of Nigeria wishes to state unequivocal terms that no Nigerian has been denied their rights to religious beliefs or practice, nor are Nigerians persecuted because of their faith.

As members of that critical constituency, it is vital to remind Mike Pompeo to consult religious stakeholders in the country whenever he feels the urge to contribute to the discourse about Nigeria. He should desist from illogical conclusions and outright insinuations as in this case.

The Young Christian Forum states that from all indications, the overarching objective of Mike Pompeo is causing religious disharmony in Nigeria, which in our considered opinion has been on the cards since his stint as the Secretary of State in the former administration in the United States of America.

We, therefore, wish to warn Mike Pompeo and his co-travellers to desist from their despicable plot as Nigerians are not that gullible not to see the handwriting on the wall. We also advise that they channel their energies and resources towards more charitable ventures that would impact positively rather than negatively.

As critical stakeholders in Nigeria, the Young Christian Forum of Nigeria debunks the allusions made by Mike Pompeo in his report as there is no iota of truth in it. It, therefore, remains a figment of his imagination.

We, therefore, urge all religious groups in Nigeria to continue to have religious tolerance as the watchword in our quest for sustainable growth and development. We must resist the urge to fall for the disjointed narrative pushed forward by the likes of Mike Pompeo, who are ignorant and mischievous in their public posturing.

We as Nigerians must rise in defence of our county in these trying times. And never shall we allow despicable elements to succeed in sowing the seed of discord amongst us.

We thank you for your time and attention and urge you all to take this message of hope to your various constituencies. May God continue to bless Nigeria and protect us from our adversaries from near and far.

This is indeed a deliberate attempt at causing religious disharmony in Nigeria

Thank you.

By Ernest Adadu

While taking a vivid look at the article being published on the spiteful statements made by the immediate past United States Secretary of State and former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency , Mike Pompeo, all I saw was nothing but a tool (Pompeo) that is craving for relevance, and being used by the news agency to propagate pernicious propaganda aimed at the heart of Nigeria's unity by creating extreme religious bigotry among the peaceful citizens, and to also disrupt President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The article written by Mike Pompeo on the 10th of June is nothing but a tool aimed at breeding discord and blindly criticizing the patriotic leaders of our dear country Nigeria. It is nothing but false political propaganda created to serve no good deed.

He stated that at least 1,500 Christians have been killed in Nigeria in the last six months. This is an awful fabrication of facts. Yes, there are several issues of insecurity rocking the nation, but it is not nearly as bad as Mike Pompeo paints it to be. It is shameful for him to have stated such false facts without providing proof or a source of reference.

I was perplexed to my very core when I read what was written in the fallacious article, as it was obvious that Mike Pompeo wished to blindly attack the Nigerian Government without cause or reason, and I asked myself, "WHY?".

It is remarkable to know that the level of insecurity in Nigeria has drastically reduced overtime. The alarming Boko haram insurgency has been dealt with in a pragmatic approach taken by President Muhammadu Buhari. Many successes have been recorded under his leadership as he has been steadfast in the discharge of his duty, and providing aid to civil authority.

The issue of Muslims fighting Christians is a matter that has been present throughout history from the 7th century. The matter has encouraged a variety of views throughout history, but greeting the matter with the idiosyncrasy of condemning one party over the other is one that breeds hatred and hostility. Owing to the delicate nature of such a matter, it would have been wise for Pompeo to guard his statements regarding the killings of Christians in Nigeria.

Nigeria is on the edge presently, and statements that would further encourage discord and hostility between the two major religions in the country should be avoided.

It was myopic of Mike Pompeo not to have pointed out the fact that Christians are not the only ones being slaughtered in the country. Several faithful Muslims have also been killed in various parts of the country. It is obvious that his intents are born out of mischief.

He also failed to point out the fact that these acts were carried out by terrorists and bandits who do not discriminate when they kill. They do not care about what group or religion their victims belong to. They carry out their acts without mercy, no matter who you are.

I strongly admit and concur that any government that cannot discharge this basic obligation of Protecting Lives and Property, losses any iota of legitimacy. President Muhammadu Buhari has been fervent in his handling of security issues in Nigeria that has led to massive killing and wanton destruction of property across the country, and making every region habitable to everyone irrespective of their religious view as opposed to what Pompeo insinuated.

In addressing the challenge to the survival of religion tolerance in Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari made it pertinent to consider, and also worked on security issues and problems that have affected or capable of affecting the attitude, confidence and cooperation of all groups and segments that make up the Nigerian federation, without leaving out the necessity to explore the gaps and gray areas in the national constitution that are responsible for various religion problems and crises.


However, knowing that sensitive issues like that of religion intolerance is a weaponry that has fostered National and International Terrorist attacks on many Nations, Pompeo should have known better to verify every information gotten, or seen on the internet before relying on a creek in-house media as a source of verifiable information. This act makes a man like him reeks of low intelligence.

He also accused the Nigerian government of “downplaying the attacks and characterizing them as conflicts between herders and farmers rather than as religiously motivated acts of terror.” One can never call a spade a bucket. We have all seen that there is no religious motivation behind the killings in Nigeria. These killings are merely carried out by merciless bandits and terrorists who know nothing about Islam or Christianity.


Pompeo cited the case of Leah Sharibu who has remained in captivity in the hands of the Boko Haram sect due to the fact that she refused to convert to Islam. He claimed that the young lady has remained in captivity over three years without consequence. By this, he insinuates that the Nigerian government failed to act merely because she is a Christian who refused to convert to Islam. This is an odoriferous innuendo that Mike Pompeo has so witlessly expressed.

He also made other claims about the matter, one of which he gave a self-declared statistic stating that Christians murdered in the country had risen to 60 percent in 2020 and was most likely going to get worse in recent times. This he stated without providing concrete evidence to his claim.

We should educate Pompeo and help his amnesia about his statement on the presence of radical Islamic jihadist groups in northern Nigeria.
Firstly, he should know that radical Islamic jihadist groups are all over the world. Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is all over African countries and have registered their presence through different attacks.

Has he forgotten so soon?
The memorable 9/11 attack on the twin tower by Alqueada, that was masterminded and executed on American soil?

The numerous attacks by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) or Daesh, which is detailed as follows:

A car bomb in Iraq that killed 28 Shia pilgrims and injured 60 others as they were returning from Karbala, while in the capital Baghdad a roadside bomb exploded near a minibus, killing four pilgrims and wounding 15.

A suicide bomber exploded targeting civilians in a commercial shop on a busy tourist destination and business center in Turkey, March 2016.

ISIL took responsibility for a stabbing that killed a French police officer and his companion in France, June 2016.

29-year-old Omar Mateen killed 49 people and wounded 53 others in a mass shooting inside Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida in United State, June 2016.

Between November 2–3, five were killed in Stadttempel , Vienna , including the perpetrator. The Vienna Police Department confirmed that the attacker was an Islamic State sympathizer, and that the attack was motivated by Islamic extremism. This happened in Austria, November 2020.

Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant targeted Shia Muslims on 21 January 2021 in a clothing market in Tayaran Square, Baghdad. US, UN, EU and the Pope condemn the attack calling it a senseless act of violence. Iraq, January 2021


Attacks where everywhere, United Kingdom, Sweden, Spain, Canada, etc which were dated to 2021.
However, with the above references and many more, should we now conclude just like Mr Mike, that all these attacks are on Christians, and every President in the attacked country supports religion intolerance?

It is obvious that Mike Pompeo’s statements were borne out of hatred for the Islamic religion. It is important for him to realize that words are powerful. If he has any problem with the Islamic religion, he should keep it to himself and not sow seeds of discord in other countries. If he has nothing good to say about the country, it will be in his best interest to keep silent on the matter and focus on his own country.

At the end of his article, Mike Pompeo issued several lame threats to the federal government of the country. He stated that if the Nigerian government failed to carry out swift actions to put an end to the persecution of Christians, there would be consequences in the form of sanctions and increased diplomatic pressure.

The Buhari led administration has been working tirelessly to safeguard the lives and properties of all Nigerian citizens no matter the religion you practice. It is an insult on Mike Pompeo’s part to disregard the efforts put in by the current administration and try to create unnecessary agitation in the country.

At this point, sanctions and diplomatic pressure isn’t what Nigeria needs. What the country needs is support from other countries. Mike Pompeo would do well to call for support in the country rather that criticize its leaders and proclaim unnecessary threats.

President Muhammadu Buhari is efficiently leading the fight against insecurity in Nigeria along with the service chiefs and the Nigerian Military. Let us all join hands to support them rather than throw incessant criticisms at them.

Adadu is a student of peace and conflict resolution and wrote from Gwarimpa.

TSG Hails APC Caretaker Committee For Releasing Congresses Time Table, Demand date for National Convention

The Tinubu Support Group(TSG) has hailed the the All Progressive Congress (APC) National Caretaker Committee for the release of time table for congresses.

The group through its Director General, Umar Ibrahim Muhammed in a statement on Sunday said the decision of the Committee to release the time table for the congresses at this time is commendable.

“We as a Pro-Tinubu 2023 group wish to sincerely commend the National Caretaker Committee for the decision to release the time table for congresses from ward level to the Zonal levels at this time".

“We are glad and we must affirm our deep satisfaction with the decision of the leadership of our great party to finally set procedures for the National Congresses that will produce new leaders of our great party from the Ward level to state and to the National level",

While urging party members, stakeholders on the need to keep the flag of the party flying, the group said: “ We restate that APC is the best for Nigerians. At this moment, we should be expanding our energies in positioning our party and gearing up for continuous leadership at the national level. We must show Nigerians that we are the real deal.

“But, we are also aware, and assured that everything is being done by the leaders of the party, towards ensuring a seamless nomination process that will be credible and accepted by majority of the party members and Nigerians in general.” the group said

The group commended President Buhari's efforts in trying to unite Nigeria and further described Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the best candidate to succeed Him in 2023.

Eventhough the process is beginning after 2 postponement and coming out after president's statement of given them till end of June, 2021 on Arise Television interview.we hope that the process will be seamless and truly reflect the wishes of party members as we equally need a definate date for National Convention proper.

“Asiwaju has done a lot for Nigeria and Nigerians irrespective of religion and tribe. He has built bridges across the country which single him out as the best candidate to continue the good work of President Buhari," the group concluded

By: Taiwo Akerele

28 years ago, as a 17 years old boy back then in Igarra Edo state, we saw hundreds of adults peacefully queuing up in an organized manner under a very convivial atmosphere to cast their votes for their choice candidates in a military organized transition in west Africa major economy, Nigeria.

That elections was annulled after a few days when a winner had clearly emerged in the person of Chief MKO Abiola. 28 years after, and 22 years after we returned to full fledged democracy, how has Nigeria fared in entrenching democratic values and ethos? Do we still que up peacefully to cast our votes? Are elections better organized?

Do we now have a better issues based campaign culture? Our elected officials accountable to the people? Is democracy working to grow the economy and improve the quality of lives of the citizens? Are the political parties have agenda that can be measured in terms of output and outcome? What has become of our local government systems across the country today? How has the judiciary fared? How far with their agitation for autonomy? How prepared Is the electoral commission to conduct credible elections similar to what we had in 1993 witnessed and attested by all and sundry as free and fair and credible.

Twenty eight years after June 12, how is the national budget working for the people especially in the area of research and development, innovation science and technology? What percentage of our national budget do we dedicate to basic education as against global recommendation?

For me these are issues that should dominate our reflections as we celebrate the June 12 anniversary in our dear country Nigeria.

Thank you

Taiwo Akerele
Country Reps PolicyHouse international and chairman Association of Nigerian Authors Abuja chapter contributed this from Manhattan New York city.

By: Benedict Aguele

Nigerians woke up to a shocking media statement by the minister of information & culture Lai Mohammed who announced that the federal government of Nigeria had suspended indefinitely the operation of the Twitter social media app in the country citing the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.


Before the suspension of the platform’s services in Nigeria Twitter had earlier deleted tweets and video from the verified handle of President Muhammad Buhari making threats of punishment to a sect called IPOB in the South-Eastern part of the country after he blamed them for attacks on government buildings.


He then referenced Nigeria’s civil war events in the 1960s, which seemed to offend many Nigerians.


Many Nigerians have since found other means to log on to the platform via VPN because for many of them it is their only source of earnings rather than resulting in criminality.




In a country that has not only failed to provide employment for its youth but has also failed to address the many issues, the country is currently grappling with.


The suspension Is a complete misplaced priority the government should rather focus on making Nigerian work for Nigerians.

The Member representing Ikeja federal constituency, Hon. James Faleke has reacted to a news making the rounds that he was among those sponsoring APC members protesting against nomination of Cardinal Odumbaku son as Chairman in Ojodu LCDA.

In a statement signed by the Lawmaker, Faleke exonerated himself, advising Lagosians to jettison the news.

He reiterated the need to set the facts and record straight for the fact that such a fake story may be taken on its face value by some unwary and gullible persons.

According to the Lawmaker "I am a member of APC, the party that is so precious to me, it is impossible to now turn the mind of our party members against our party leaders.

"I have moved on because Asiwaju has told us to tell our people to let go and calm them down. we've communicated same to our people. though they are bitter about it and that may have led them to express themselves in the manner they did".


The Lagos lawmaker also said he could not have sponsored such a protest where he too has been labeled a target by the organizers and his house was threatened to be razed down on wednesday morning by party members in ojodu.

He further assured his believes in the right of Lagosians to freedom of expression, assembly, and protest where and when necessary, as he has always canvassed the need for people to explore peaceful channels to ventilate their views and demands.

"For the fact that empowerment buses donated to constituents who are transporters are seen during protest does not mean it was done by me, He said.

He urged those spreading rumours to however stop because our leader has assured us he will act.

COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE TECHNICAL SESSION OF DIAMOND GROUP HELD ON FRIDAY 25TH MAY, 2021.

Arising from the 2nd Technical Session of Diamond Group on the theme: Restructuring and its Implication to the Nigerian Polity, the group observed that :

• The consistent agitation for restructuring by the citizenry is borne out of the perceived injustice and imbalance that define governance and public service in Nigeria.

• The pervasive insecurity and other ills ravaging the country cannot be disconnected from the extremely poor governance and maladministration that have become synonymous with public service over the years.

After critical examination of the concept of restructuring and the several offshoots of the agitations from all parts of Nigeria including recent political developments in the country, the group resolves as follows:

1. That the concept of restructuring is never a poisoned chalice that some parts of the country made it look like, and that as a matter of fact, it is an integral part of the panacea for the troubles of Nigeria

2. That as beautiful as the concept of restructuring is, without the citizenry internalising the ideals of citizenship, restructuring their mindset by disciplining themselves in accordance with ethical principles and moral conducts, deriving the envisaged benefits from the reworking of the structure of the country will be a mirage

3. That the group supports in totality, the Southern Governors resolutions on true federalism and good governance, ban of open grazing and other fine details of the accord reached by the Governors in Asaba, Delta State

4. Further, that the group considers repulsive the vexatious response of the Federal Government to the Southern Governors resolutions.

5. That the group considers the outburst of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami as totally unenlightened, and highly provocative

6. That the group equally condemns in strong terms the attempt by unknown gunmen to destabilize the southeastern part of Nigeria and make it ungovernable.

7. That the Federal Government should desist from chasing shadows, deal decisively with the challenges militating against the peace and prosperity of our dear country by restructuring the country, channeling the energy of the people to nation building, healing the fracture lines in the polity and generally emplace good governance to turn the fortunes of the country around.

Signed:

Toyyib Olaniyi Musa-Omoloja

Archdiamond, Diamond Group, Nigeria.

Exclusive: How Lagos Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat Imposed His 2015 Coordinator, PA’s Elder Sister On Eredo, Epe Local Governments


A new twist has been added to the ongoing controversy trailing the outcome of All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government primary election held last Saturday.
The deputy governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat who has been accused of planning his 2023 political ambition of becoming the governor of Lagos state working in cahoot with some politicians to impose some chairmen that will be loyal and do his bidding.

The allegation against the three chairmen in Epe, Eredo and Ikosi-Ejirin was that they worked against his political aspiration in 2015, while he contested the Governorship primary, against former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
The modus operandi of Hamzat and his henchmen was to scuttle the process once it’s clear that they won’t win. And this they were able to do successfully in a number of local governments and Local Council Development Areas across the state last Saturday.

According to the results signed by the returning officer, Miss Omowumi Ogbara who covered Epe and sighted by Newsnow, only two wards conducted the primary before It was disrupted. The results shows that the incumbent chairman of Epe local government, Mr. Adesanya Adedoyin, who is also an aspirant won in the two wards by wide margin, scoring 803 votes to defeat his closest rival, Animasaun, who polled 304 votes.
In Eredo and Ikosi-Ejirin, primary election did not hold. It was disrupted by Hon. Dahunsi Ogunkelu, aka ‘Sketel”, representing Epe Constituency 2 at the Lagos House of Assembly. Ogunkelu was on rampage while the primary election lasted and was overheard telling Hamzat after the deed has been done that , “ mission accomplished sir. A ti daru, meaning, we have scuttled everything.”

Now, instead of conducting another primary, Hamzat has gone ahead to Assure his candidates that it was a done deal. In Eredo, his Coordinator for Governorship project in 2015, Ismail Akinloye has received the LASEIC nomination form, without contesting a primary election.
In Epe, his personal assistant’s elder sister, one Suzan Olayemi Animashahun has been imposed as the party's candidate.

In Ikosi-Ejirin, Wale Anamo from Ijebu-Ode is Hamzat’s Candidate. Wale, who has now added ‘Raji’ to his name to conform with Epe’s typical name, is a total stranger in the community, where he is now being imposed as the party's Chairmanship candidate, by Hamzat.

Despite the fact that the local government primary election was disrupted across the three local governments in Epe, Hamzat has been able to use his contact to give the LASIEC nomination forms to some of the aspirants loyal to him. Sources informed Newsnow that there was wild jubilation in the camp of Hamzat yesterday, celebrating that everything has been ‘ signed, sealed and delivered’ with Asiwaju’s imprimatur.

The three chairmen are however undaunted. They have insisted that they would retrieve their mandate from the usurpers. In a Facebook post on behalf of his colleagues, Spokesman of the group, Niyi Saliu , who’s also the incumbent chairman of Eredo and an aspirant said; “ This daylight robbery will not stand. I appeal to all our supporters to remain calm. We will do everything lawful to reclaim our mandates. We are persuaded that all is not lost , especially given the assurance by our leader and national leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu who hinted recently during the south west meeting with governors that he’s not imposing anybody. We are excited that he has through that pronouncement deflated the ego of those dropping his name to perpetuate illegality in our party. Our leaders have also assured us that everything will be resolved amicably.”. He said.
Saliu maintained that Epe, Eredo and Ikosi-Ejirin performed creditably well during the last Lagos East Senatorial election won by Senator Tokunbo Abiru to lift APC to overwhelming success.

For now, it’s not clear how the APC wants to wriggle out of the logjam it created through the botched local government primary election.

Sources within the party hinted that Tinubu who was not too happy with the way the party officials and electoral officers bungled the process will convene the meeting of the Governors Advisory Council, GAC, tomorrow (Thursday) to resolve the imbroglio.

The CEO Kidiaye Oil and Gas Nigeria Ltd, Kenneth Osadiaye has advised on strategy to mitigate marginal field challenges that investors and operators of marginal oil fields face.

According to Kenneth Osadiaye, the Nigerian oil and gas market is expected to register a CAGR of more than 2% during the forecast period of 2021 – 2026. In addition to the country-wide economic impact of COVID-19, crude producers are faced with a decline in both price and demand for crude, thus, resulting in an oil glut.

In its industry circular as of 30 March 2020, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) stated that it considers the situation occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic a force majeure and has directed all operators to limit the number of personnel at project sites. This has the potential of leading to a breach of specific contract terms.

"However, some of the major factors driving the market include increasing investments in the upstream sector and the development of large-scale and modular refineries in the country. Oil and gas production had been hampered in Nigeria in the past few years due to the attack on oil and gas infrastructure by militants.

"Furthermore, oil theft has been one of the major issues faced by the oil and gas market in Nigeria, which resulted in huge losses to operating companies in the country. Such factors are expected to have a negative impact on the market growth during the forecast period."

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN has called on The House of Representatives to
focus more on strategies that would strengthen the legislative framework of the
NYSC and to put in place a better incentives for young Nigerians to maintain the
tradition of exploring the numerous opportunities in the diversity of Nigerian
culture.

This was made known during a press conference held in Abuja to address issue of scrapping the age-long NYSC scheme.

According to the Vice President, Nigeria Youth Council of Nigeria, Amb Akoshile Mukhtar, he said Nigeria is at a critical point in her history and what is most required at this
moment is careful introspection and continuous engagement among the
various component units and stakeholders.

"We were shocked that the hallowed floor of the Federal House ofRepresentatives of Nigeria would be weaponized to further a parochial and divisionist agenda couched in the move to scrap the National Youth Service
Corps (NYSC) citing security challenges as the reason.
"The call to scrap the NYSC scheme which serves as a transition year for many
Nigerian youth, with the N33,000 allowance serving as a key financial stabilizer
for many of these poor Nigerians, is a negative message to them that government doesn’t care about them.

"We are well aware that this move has been covertly sponsored by agents of destabilization, who have misguided the respected House of Representatives,
which has in time past and on several occasions taken the side of the Nigerian
masses even at huge political cost.

"We do not deny the fact that there are security challenges in Nigeria , but we would have expected the House to be more engaged in finding solutions to support our troops on the frontlines and boost their morale, rather than using the legislative privilege to declare
victory for enemies of Nigeria by calling for scrapping of a national scheme like
NYSC.
"As representatives of the youth we are bold to say that the NYSC has done far much more good than harm to national development and sustaining the scheme should be the priority of lawmakers rather than calling for it to be
scrapped. Governance is a service to the citizenry and the only presence of government known to many Nigerians in the remote areas of Nigeria is the youth Corp member s posted there as community school teacher or healthcare professional.

"It would be a gross disservice and an inhuman attack on the very fabric of our national unity to move against such a scheme. It is on record that, through all the turbulence that has characterized our country ,the NYSC scheme has continued to run year after year uninterrupted for close to 5-decades. We shouldn’t be debating whether to sustain such a unifying programme that other institutions of government ought to emulate for sustained
progress and deeper penetration for impact on the lives of the average citizen.

"We stand firmly in support of President Muhammadu Buhari, a President who has
given more institutional and practical s upport to the Nigerian youth through
programmes such as the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund and the numerous
social investment programmes. All stakeholders should support in ensuring that
his vision for a crop of independent youth is realized.
"Finally, the NYCN Passes a vote of Credence in the continuous existence of the
NYSC, its Management and urge that all stakeholders should support in
ensuring that his vision for a crop of independent youth is realized.
God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria," he concluded.