₦airaland Forum

tfelicityk:
Some people want to use the movement to cash out from some gullible people.

It is in the best interests of Peter Obi to come and clear the air. He shouldn't wait until people who are loyal and love him fall victims.

However, no information on the money contributed by good citizens in support for his presidential ambitions last election.

nnachukz:
Where is the registration link?

Mr. President, Domestic problems Beacons.

I am compelled at this time in our lives as a nation to call on our retreating President's attention to the security challenges at home, which entails that he immediately suspend his ongoing retreat in a foreign land and come home to address the overwhelming security situation across the country.

This urgent call has become necessary following the rising incidents of crimes and criminalities all over Nigeria with an apparent absence of governance.

In the 2 weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity across Nigeria, especially in Plateau and Zamfara states.

The repeated pipeline explosions in the Niger Delta, further reflect a nation in distress.

In the North East, Borno state leaders are bemoaning the return of insurgency with troops and civilians being killed randomly. In the South East, the story is the same: killings and abduction.

Amid all these, the CEO of the troubling company called Nigeria is retreating far away land in France from the Company's headquarters.

The primary duty of any government is securing the lives and property of its citizens and one wonders the type of retreat going on in another country where peace has been secured by their leaders while blood continues to flow in our country.

The fight for a better Nigeria is not about individuals; it is about ensuring that every citizen can see, feel, and benefit from the policies and decisions of those in power.

I, therefore like to urge Mr President to quickly suspend whatever he is doing in France and rush home to take responsibility by addressing these disturbing issues.

That is the new Nigeria that the nation seeks.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Paraman:
But some fools claimed Tinubu owned Remita

Burkina Faso Unveils Its First Locally Made Electric Car

Burkina Faso has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the launch of its first electric car, developed entirely by the Burkinabe car manufacturer ITAOUA. This innovative vehicle, created using local resources and expertise, showcases the nation’s growing industrial and technological capabilities.

With a 30 minute charging time and a range of 330 kilometers (205 miles), the car is set to transform transportation in Burkina Faso and beyond.

This achievement highlights the determination and ingenuity of Burkinabe engineers, designers, and workers. It represents a significant step towards industrial independence for a country that, like many in Africa, has long relied on imported vehicles.

ITAOUA’s electric car is a proud symbol of Burkina Faso’s ability to produce world-class technology locally.

Notably, the car’s efficiency positions it as a game-changer. Its impressive range and minimal energy consumption make it ideal for both urban and rural settings.

As the global shift toward sustainable energy continues, ITAOUA’s innovation puts Burkina Faso on the map as a leader in green technology.

The impact of this innovation extends far beyond transportation. It is expected to generate thousands of jobs in manufacturing, sales, maintenance, and renewable energy sectors.

By fostering local expertise and advancing skills in the auto industry, it will pave the way for further economic development.

Furthermore, ITAOUA’s success story serves as an inspiration for young Burkinabe entrepreneurs and innovators, proving that vision and perseverance can achieve remarkable results.

In addition to its economic benefits, the electric car underscores Burkina Faso’s commitment to sustainability. By reducing dependence on imported cars and fossil fuels, the country is not only cutting its carbon footprint but also conserving foreign exchange reserves.

As the car gains traction, it has the potential to become a valuable export, further boosting the nation’s economy.

Burkina Faso’s recent progress across sectors like agriculture, health, and education demonstrates its capacity to overcome challenges and achieve significant advancements. The introduction of ITAOUA’s electric car reinforces the country’s position as a pioneer in innovation and self-sufficiency.

This homegrown electric car is more than a technological achievement – it is a symbol of hope, progress, and the bright future of Burkina Faso.
ITAOUA’s innovation inspires not only the nation but also other countries to embrace sustainability and invest in local talent.

With this success, Burkina Faso proves that with determination, vision, and unity, any challenge can be transformed into an opportunity.

At the press conference, families of victims killed during the #EndBadGovernance protests urged the government and police authorities to accept responsibility for the loss of innocent lives and provide justice and compensation.

Security personnel in Kano State have been cracking down on FM stations, searching for journalists who dared to cover a press conference held by the parents of victims of police brutality during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

These protests, which took place last August, aimed to draw attention to the struggles faced by Nigerians, including bad governance, economic hardship, and other pressing challenges.

However, SaharaReporters learnt that personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS), also known as State Security Service (SSS) have been looking for the addresses of the parents and the details of the organisers of the press conference.

At the press conference, families of victims killed during the #EndBadGovernance protests urged the government and police authorities to accept responsibility for the loss of innocent lives and provide justice and compensation.

The press conference was organised by the Victims Support Initiative Nigeria (VSIN) on Monday in Kano, where bereaved families shared their experiences, calling for accountability for what they termed reckless actions by law enforcement officers during the demonstrations.

One of the journalists visited by the security personnel said “they came to our radio station because on Monday we carried the story about the grievances of the parents of those killed by the police during the August protest”.

“They were asking us about the organisers of the press conference and the details of the parents who spoke at the press conference,” the journalist added.

At the press conference, Malam Yahya Ibrahim, whose son was killed during the protest, urged President Bola Tinubu to establish an independent and impartial inquiry in the killing of their children.

“Some of our sons and daughters were not even part of the protest but were killed because of excessive force used by the police. We are ready to provide all the information and evidence,” he said.

Families Of #EndBadGovernance Protesters Killed Or Injured By Police Demand Justice, Compensation From Nigerian Govt
Yahya Ibrahim, who lost his five-year-old son to a stray bullet in their family compound, spoke emotionally on behalf of the families.

“My son was just playing in the compound when a stray bullet cut his life short. This was not an accident but a failure of governance and accountability. We demand justice for all innocent lives lost,” he said.

The VSIN revealed that over 50 families across the country have reported similar tragic losses linked to the protests, highlighting a pattern of alleged excessive force by security operatives.

Fatima Yusuf, the coordinator of VSIN, urged the government to set up an independent judicial panel to investigate the incidents and ensure compensation for the victims’ families.

“These families deserve justice, not silence. The lives lost during the protests are a reminder of the systemic failures we need to fix as a nation,” she said.

“My son was just a little boy playing in our compound. He was too young to even understand what a protest meant, yet a policeman’s bullet took his life,” Ibrahim said, his voice heavy with grief.

“The Inspector General’s denial of this tragedy only adds to our pain. It’s a stark reminder of how accountability is missing.”

The families called on the government to thoroughly investigate the killings and hold officers who misused firearms accountable.

They also pressed for financial compensation for those who lost loved ones or suffered life-altering injuries.

Ibrahim explained how the lack of justice has worsened their anguish, leaving many families without closure.

“We won’t stop fighting for justice until those responsible face the consequences,” he vowed.

However, they appeal for the government to address the victims’ grievances and ensure such tragedies never happen again.

Notably, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) made similar claims, but the police haven't targeted them.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), called out the Nigerian police for what he described as a double standard.

If the police are demanding that Amnesty International retract its reports and issue a public apology, Sowore noted they should also extend the same demand to NHRC.

The human rights activist made this statement in response to reports that the Nigerian police had written to Amnesty International, asking the organisation to apologise and retract its report.

The report in question alleges that police used live ammunition at close range, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 people during protests in several states, including Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger.

Amnesty International had said the police used live ammunition at close range, killing at least 24 people during #EndBadGovernance protests in Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger states.

The organisation said some victims were shot in the head or torso, while others were suffocated by teargas.

“People in Nigeria witnessed unbelievable lawlessness as security personnel fired live ammunition at peaceful protests,” Amnesty International Nigeria’s Director, Isa Sanusi, said.

“The death toll could be higher than 24 because of the authorities’ desperate efforts to cover up the atrocities.

Brother to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Kanunta, has said former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad needs psychiatric evaluation.

Kanunta said Ahmad should be evaluated for failing to end terrorism in the North and working with the worst government in Nigeria’s history.

He was reacting to Ahmad’s remark that anybody pushing for Kanu’s release is an enemy of Nigeria.

Reacting, Kanunta posted on social media: “Bashir Ahmad quoted that he would only support Kanu’s release if the separatist leader undergoes rehabilitation and renounces his derogatory views about Nigeria and its citizens.

“@BashirAhmaad Mazi Nnamdi Kanu message has been consistently consistent and every word that came out of his mouth has come to pass.

“What do you want #MNK to renounce, that Nigeria is corrupt, that Igbo’s are marginalised or that he wants the freedom of his people?

“Bashir Ahmad, you need a psychiatric evaluation for failing to end terrorism in the North and for working with the worst government in the history of Nigeria. Aren’t you ashamed of yourself and the damage morons like you have caused the country?”

The Federal Government has allocated N15 billion for the dualization of the Benin-Akure-Ilesha road, a new infrastructure project covering a total length of 150.7 kilometers.

This initiative, part of the Ministry of Works’ budget within the proposed N49.74 trillion 2025 budget, includes two phases: Phase I focuses on rehabilitating the existing Benin-Akure road, while Phase II will add a new lane to the existing carriageway.

In addition to the Benin-Akure-Ilesha road dualization, the Federal Government has earmarked significant funding for other key infrastructure projects in the 2025 budget.

These include the N15 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of failed sections of the Bauchi-Jigawa state border road, aimed at improving critical transportation links in the region.

Another major allocation is the N11 billion set aside for the reconstruction of the Shagamu-Ore road, a 96-kilometer route connecting Ondo and Ogun states. The N10.45 billion allocated for the dualization of the Akure-Ilesha road, spanning 66.15 kilometers, is also a significant part of the budget.

Furthermore, N9 billion has been earmarked for the construction of the Ukana-Ikot-Ntuen road in Akwa Ibom state, while N8 billion will go toward the rehabilitation of the Lagos-Abeokuta road, enhancing the key transport corridor between Lagos and Ogun states.

Additional significant allocations include N8 billion for the construction of the Abak-Ekparakwa-Ete-Ikot-Abasi highway in Akwa Ibom state.

N7 billion will be invested in the construction of the Ugep road in Cross River state, and N6 billion will be used for the construction of the Oferekpe bridge, improving connectivity between Cross River and Ebonyi states.

Similarly, N6 billion has been allocated for the rehabilitation and dualization of the Ado-Ekiti-Afe Babalola University road, spanning 30.55 kilometers, and N5 billion for the construction of the Illara-Isolu road, which will enhance regional transport.
N4 billion has been allocated for the construction of a 23-span flyover bridge at Eke-Obinagu junction along the Enugu-Abakaliki road, and N4 billion will be used for the rehabilitation of Ogunusi Road in Ikeja, Lagos.

Additionally, N3 billion will go toward the dualization of the Abakaliki-Afikpo road, including flyover works, and N8 billion has been allocated for the construction of the Benin-Agbo road, improving access to Benin City.
These are just some of the new infrastructure projects that have received allocations in the 2025 budget for the Ministry of Works.

In September 2024, Minister of Works David Umahi announced that the Federal Government would prioritize the completion of four key road projects per geopolitical zone in 2025, focusing on finalizing ongoing initiatives rather than launching new ones

This decision, Umahi explained, is a response to economic challenges, including inflation, the naira’s devaluation, and the removal of fuel subsidies, all of which have significantly increased infrastructure costs.

Umahi further pointed out that the Tinubu administration inherited 2,600 road projects valued at N13 trillion, emphasizing the need to streamline resources and focus on completing four major projects per zone to ensure the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure.

However, a review of the 2025 Federal Government Final Budget Proposal reveals a different picture. Despite Umahi’s statements, the documents indicate allocations for several new projects, in addition to ongoing ones, suggesting that the government’s approach includes both new and continuing infrastructure developments.

Heavens1stson:
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/01/nlc-insists-on-withdrawal-of-tax-reform-bills/

The breakdown in security cooperation between Nigeria and Niger Republic has not only encouraged the emergence of a new terrorist group, Lakurawa, but has also fuelled mutual suspicions. Ejiofor Alike writes that the two countries should de-escalate tension and re-establish cooperation for their internal security

Tensions between Nigeria and Niger worsened recently as the foreign minister of the former French colony accused Nigeria of facilitating efforts to destabilise the junta-led nation.

The tense relations between the two neighbours had strained following the overthrow of a civilian government in Niger by the country’s military.

With the July 26, 2023 coup d’état in Niger, which sacked President Mohamed Bazoum, and installed General Abdourahamane Tchiani, as the leader of a new military junta, relations between Niger and ECOWAS broke down.

In an emergency session held barely five days after the coup, ECOWAS under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu gave Niger’s junta leaders one week to release and reinstate President Bazoum, threatening that all measures, including the use of force, were on the table to restore constitutional order.

ECOWAS had also imposed sanctions, including the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions, blocking crucial imports and cutting electricity, resulting in blackouts in Niamey and other major cities.

But in his reaction, Gen. Tchiani had, while promising to return Niger to civilian rule within three years, declared that the West African nation did not want a war but would defend itself against any foreign intervention.

“If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk-in-the-park some people seem to think,” he had warned in his televised address.

Tchiani also condemned what he called the “illegal and inhumane” sanctions imposed by ECOWAS on the landlocked country.

Rather than succumb to ECOWAS demand, Niger had joined Mali, and Burkina Faso, to announce their decision to withdraw from ECOWAS in January 2024.

While accusing the regional bloc of deviating from its foundational ideals and succumbing to external influences, the three countries also criticised the imposition of sanctions aimed at reversing their respective coups.

There were series of military takeovers – Mali in 2020 and 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in 2023 – each leading to suspensions from ECOWAS and strained relations with the regional body.

However, few days after President Tinubu had promised German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier that ECOWAS would handle the three countries’ return to the group with wisdom, the regional bloc, in December 2024, formally approved the withdrawal of the three countries from the regional body, with effect from January 29, 2025, in accordance with Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaty.

With the breakdown in security cooperation between Nigeria and Niger, insecurity across their borders worsened, leading to the emergence of a new terrorist group, Lakurawa, which has been terrorising their border communities.

Niger’s withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) tackling the emerging regional threats also worsened regional stability.

Niger had been a key ally of the West in the fight against militant groups such as Islamic State and al-Qaida in the Sahel region.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, had recently confirmed to journalists in Abuja that the new terror group emerged from the Republic of Niger after the military coup in that country had led to the breakdown of military cooperation between the Nigerian government and the new military leaders.

“The new terrorists began incursion into northern parts of Sokoto and Kebbi states from the Niger Republic and Mali axis, particularly after the coup in the Niger Republic. Before the coup, there were joint border operations with Nigerien security forces, which kept the terrorists at bay,” Buba had explained.

The revelation by the DHQ showed that the Nigerian government prioritised the ECOWAS resolution above the country’s internal security.

Many security analysts have argued that Nigeria, with her numerous security threats and porous borders, should have considered national interest before signing any resolutions with the other member-countries of ECOWAS to cut military ties with the Niger Republic.

The strained relations between the two countries led to mutual suspicions as the Nigerien Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, recently accused Nigeria of facilitating efforts to destabilise the junta-led nation, and summoned the chargé d’affaires at the Nigerian embassy in Niamey.

“Despite efforts to normalise relations, we regret that Nigeria has not given up on serving as a rear base for the destabilisation of Niger, with the complicity of some foreign powers and officials of the former regime, to whom it offers refuge,” Sangare said in a statement aired on national television.

Nigerien authorities specifically alleged that foreign security forces, including Nigerian security forces, aided the Lakurawa terrorist group, in the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya, Dosso Region of the country on December 13, 2024.

Niger has also continued to harbour the suspicion that Nigeria provided a military base for its former colonial master and estranged ally, after the French military base in Niger was sacked by the new junta.

Security analysts believe that President Tinubu’s recent week-long state visit to France and his warm reception by President Emmanuel Macron may have fuelled this suspicion.

However, the Nigerian government has since refuted the allegations, insisting that it remained committed to the fight against terrorism, and had not condoned the activities of a terrorism group.

A statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, also debunked the allegation that Nigerian security forces aided the Lakurawa terrorist group in the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline.

The statement also clarified that there are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilise the Government of Niger.

In another statement issued last Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the federal government described Tchiani’s accusations as unfounded and a diversionary tactic aimed at covering his administration’s failures.

“These claims exist solely in the realm of imagination. Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance, overt or covert, with France—or any other country—to destabilise Niger Republic,” the statement said.

The minister specifically denied allegations that Nigeria had ceded parts of its territory to foreign powers or established terrorist bases in Sokoto State in collaboration with France.

“The claims about the establishment of a so-called Lakurawa terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State are baseless. Nigeria has been a regional leader in combating terrorism, dedicating significant resources and lives to ensure stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond,” the minister stated.

With the worsening insecurity across their countries’ borders, Abuja and Niamey should sustain the security cooperation they resumed in August.

The two countries should shun regional bloc’s sentiments and foreign influence and strengthen their security cooperation for their mutual benefits.

While Niger should be encouraged to rejoin the MJTF for regional security and stability, the two countries should prioritise their security and territorial integrity above the interest of any regional bloc, as well as foreign interest.