Wednesday, July 23, 2025
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RE-Mining Cadastre Office, A Threat to National Security

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By Engr. Tafa Bakori

I came across a hogwash of an opinion article penned by a suspected fictitious character named Biliyaminur Surajo titled, “Mining Cadastre Office, A Threat to National Security” which by all intents and purposes was crafted to not only diminish the great job the Mining Cadastral office (MCO) is doing but also to cast aspersion on the foremost cadastral agency and bring it to disrepute. As a mining stakeholder for over 15 years, I am an insider conversant with the inner workings of MCO and I’ve been following with keen interest ongoing reforms by the present administration to reform and reposition the mining sector. It therefore beggars’ belief that any sane individual can seek to denigrate such efforts with patently outlandish claims as encapsulated in the jaundiced article.
The writer claims that the MCO “has become synonymous with corruption, bribery, and unprofessionalism” without any shred of evidence but rather put together a contraption of conjectures and false narratives to justify his warped conclusion. Reading through the piece, I saw a desperate attempt by the writer to allude to outrightly preposterous postulations by “faceless industry stakeholders”, more like an attempt to “give a dog a bad name, in order to hang it”.
He cited a crisis of overlapping titles, alleging that “for a fee, fake community consent documents can be obtained through MCO channels”. This is not only far from the truth, but a blatant lie. With my vast knowledge of the mining sector, I can assert that the allegations are totally baseless and unfounded because MCO does not get involved in obtaining land owner/occupier consent which is the responsibility of the applicant after the successful submission of application, and the receipt of their priority number.
If Mr. Surajo knows those purportedly claiming to be MCO agents or officers carrying out such nefarious activities, he should bring them forward or submit details of such unscrupulous individuals to the security agencies for necessary action. The onus of proof falls on those who alleges. One would have expected some “naming and shaming” at the least, but carrying out a hatchet job hinged on falsehoods can be such an arduous task.
Claiming that public complaints on overlapping titles fell on “deaf ears” is also disingenuous to anyone conversant with happenings in the sector. While it a known fact that during the process of migrating the cadastral system from computerized to the online Electronic Mining Cadastre plus (eMC+), some of the valid titles couldn’t be moved due to some systemic issues, several efforts have been made to correct the anomaly. I am aware that the rectification took some time which might be responsible for instances of overlapping titles that were hitherto seen on the eMC+ platform.
During that period of glitch, it was reported that applicants saw free mining areas on the platform which already has valid owners before the migration and these caused the few incidences of overlapping titles. From my investigations, it was gathered that a standing committee has since been at work resolving the issues amicably and it is pertinent that those that are facing similar challenges reach out to the agency. I have it on good authority that the cases that have been brought to the attention of the agency have been resolved till date. It is also pertinent to note that the MCO has never lost a single case in court which implies that the agency is guided at all times by extant provisions of the law and the statutes guiding the operations of the agency.
The fictitious writer also erroneously alleged that” beyond official fees, industry sources report a pervasive culture of additional payments to individual MCO officers”. From my experience over the years, this is likely a case of itinerant fake consultants posturing as MCO staff. An instance revealed by the grapevine is a case of a suspect presently cooling his heels in the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Garki, Abuja for impersonating the Special Technical Assistant (STA) to the DG, Madaki Joseph. The suspect, one Shehu Bokane, operating from his base in Niger State has allegedly duped his victims of several millions of Naira, and this is verifiable. This is just one instance and there could be many more at large. What anyone privy to such malfeasance should do is to report the culprits to the authorities instead of tarring an entire agency with the brush of corruption based on false premise or spurious allegations.
Not done trying to justify his fables, the writer described that Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification Project (MINDIVER), funded by the World Bank designed to prevent duplication of titles as a failure. While the eMC+ system faced initial hitches, the system has largely digitized the application processes as all mineral title applications are now submitted exclusively through the system. Like the DG MCO, Engr. Obadiah Nkom said at some fora, “It’s an entirely online platform that offers transparency, efficiency, and real-time access.” Feedback from industry stakeholders back this assertion.
From an informed perspective, the initial glitches that affected the migration of the cadastral system to the eMC+ platform might have been averted if the MCO technical staff had some input in the building of the electronic system. That was not the case as I learnt the agency only made inputs and modifications after the system funded by MINDIVER, was delivered.
I was privileged to attend the recently held African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja, graced by some African ministers of mining and energy amongst other global and continental mining players. The robust engagements I saw, the Ministerial roundtable convened by the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) and chaired by the Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dr. Dele Alake is a sharp contrast to the picture of purported “wasted foreign trips to mining conferences” painted by the writer. It was also recently widely reported that some Nigerian mining professionals went on a capacity building training to Murdoch University in Australia. If that doesn’t represent fruits of Nigeria’s proactive engagement with the global mining community, I wonder what it is.
While there might be need for improvement in some areas like any other human endeavor, it smacks of utter mischief for the writer to paint a gloomy picture of the operations of MCO and by extension the mining sector. For the first time, in our nation’s recent history, the mining sector is experiencing a resurgence on account of the renewed focus of the Tinubu administration in developing solid minerals alongside the tenacious passion of Minister Alake in carrying on with reforms.
It is quite ludicrous that the writer will attempt to describe an agency that is renowned across the African continent as leading a very efficient cadastral system as a threat to national security. Unlike the bogus conclusion of the imaginary stakeholder, “the future of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector—and potentially the nation’s economic diversification” is bright and on course. No hatchet job or sponsored machinations of those frustrated by laudable efforts to reposition the mining sector must be allowed to stand or mislead the public. All Nigerians and responsible stakeholders should join hands with government to take our mining industry to greater heights.

Engr. Tafa Bakori, a mining stakeholder, writes from Niger State.

FOOTPRINT IN THE SANDS OF TIME.

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FOOTPRINT IN THE SANDS OF TIME.
By Dr. Chike Okogwu, Founder – Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (CARE).

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” — Thomas Campbell.

Today, as the late President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, is laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, we at the Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (CARE) join millions of Nigerians in mourning a leader whose legacy has carved a lasting impression, not just in politics, but in the lives of millions of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

When President Buhari signed the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act into law in January 2019, he did more than enact legislation, he gave hope. For the first time in Nigeria’s history, the rights of PWDs were formally recognized and protected under national law. That moment shifted the trajectory of our movement. We may not yet be where we want to be, but we are certainly no longer where we used to be.

The title of this tribute: “Footprint in the Sands of Time” is not just symbolic. It reflects the irreversible mark President Buhari left in the consciousness of Nigeria’s disability community. He moved us from a space of invisibility to a place of recognition, where our voices began to matter in policy circles, development planning and national conversations.

To fully understand the significance of this legacy, we can look through the lens of scholar John Gaventa, whose work Power and Powerlessness outlines the three faces of power:

The first face is visible power: the ability to make laws and decisions. President Buhari exercised this when he signed the Disability Act into law, giving legal legitimacy to a previously neglected population.

The second face is hidden power: who gets to sit at the table and whose voice shapes decisions. Through his administration, doors were opened for PWDs to engage directly with government agencies, ministries and policy forums. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a powerful start.

The third face is invisible power: how people perceive themselves and are perceived by society. Before the Act, many Nigerians with disabilities were seen only through the lens of pity or charity. Today, a new narrative is emerging: one of rights, empowerment and inclusion. President Buhari helped plant the seed for this shift.

From being seen as subjects of charity, we began to be treated as citizens with dignity and a place in Nigeria’s democratic promise. The relationship evolved from master-servant, to partners in dialogue, and now, we are pushing toward resource allocation and institutional inclusion-the true test of long-term empowerment.

Of course, the journey is far from over. Implementation remains a challenge. Accessibility is still limited. Stigma still exists. But the foundation laid under Buhari’s leadership stands as a benchmark, a point in our collective timeline we will always look back on and say, “Here is where the change began”.

In life, not all legacies are measured by the positions one held or the speeches one gave. Some are measured by the lives uplifted, the structures changed and the voices finally heard.

President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, your actions gave millions of Nigerians with disabilities a path to dignity, and for that, we at CARE—and across Nigeria’s disability community, say thank you…Said Baba!

You have left your footprint in the sands of time. And through us, that footprint will continue to inspire.

Rest in peace, Mr. President.

Dr. Chike Okogwu.
Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (CARE).

He Served With Duty and Dedication’: CAN President Mourns Buhari, Prays for Family

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who served the country with unwavering commitment despite the challenges that marked his tenure.

In a condolence statement issued on Saturday, the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the late President’s family, friends, and associates, and urged Nigerians to remember Buhari’s legacy of public service.

“On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and associates of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on his passing,” Archbishop Okoh said.

While acknowledging that Buhari’s years in office were not without difficulties, the CAN leader praised the former President’s dedication and sense of duty to Nigeria’s unity and development.

“While his tenure as president was not without its challenges, former President Buhari served our nation with dedication and a deep sense of duty,” Okoh noted. “His contributions to Nigeria’s development and his commitment to public service form a significant part of our national history.”

He called on Nigerians to join in prayer for the family and loved ones left behind, asking God to grant them the strength to bear the loss.

“We join all Nigerians in mourning his loss, and we pray that the Almighty God grants his family and loved ones the strength to bear this sorrow. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

Former President Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died on Friday in London after a prolonged illness. He was 82. Tributes have continued to pour in from religious leaders, political figures, and citizens reflecting on his decades-long impact on Nigeria’s political landscape.

Ministry of Defence Mourns Fmr President Buhari, Consoles President Tinubu and The Nation

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In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Ministry, Hon. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, CON, praised the late President’s lifelong service to Nigeria—first as a decorated military officer, later as a two-term democratic leader.

The Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces to expresses our profound sorrow on the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who departed this world on Sunday in a clinic in London, United Kingdom-

Former President Buhari served with distinction in the Nigerian Military, ultimately rising to the esteemed rank of General and Military Head of State from 1983 to 1985. Following his military tenure, he was elected as Nigeria’s President, serving from 2015 to 2023. His contributions have made him a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s modern political landscape, and his legacy of honour, integrity, patriotism, and unwavering national service will forever be etched in the annals of our nation’s history.

In addition this our heartfelt tribute, is a reflection on the former President’s lifelong commitment to national development and service.
President Muhammadu Buhari embodied discipline and public service. His steadfast belief in a united and indivisible Nigeria inspired countless individuals, including many Nigerians who regarded him as a role model.”

The Ministry of Defence extends its deepest condolences to President Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Buhari family, the Government, and the people of Nigeria during this difficult time.

May Allah grant his soul Aljanatul Firdaus.

PHOTO NEWS – The Former Chief Of Staff To The Immediate Past Governor Of Imo State, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu And The Minister Of State For Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu At The Mbaise USA Convention In Minnesota, USA At The Weekend

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PHOTO NEWS: The Former Chief Of Staff To The Immediate Past Governor Of Imo State, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu And The Minister Of State For Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu At The Mbaise USA Convention In Minnesota, USA At The Weekend

He Served With Duty , Dedication’: CAN Mourns Buhari, Prays for Family

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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who served the country with unwavering commitment despite the challenges that marked his tenure.

In a condolence statement issued on Saturday, the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the late President’s family, friends, and associates, and urged Nigerians to remember Buhari’s legacy of public service.

“On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and associates of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on his passing,” Archbishop Okoh said.

While acknowledging that Buhari’s years in office were not without difficulties, the CAN leader praised the former President’s dedication and sense of duty to Nigeria’s unity and development.

“While his tenure as president was not without its challenges, former President Buhari served our nation with dedication and a deep sense of duty,” Okoh noted. “His contributions to Nigeria’s development and his commitment to public service form a significant part of our national history.”

He called on Nigerians to join in prayer for the family and loved ones left behind, asking God to grant them the strength to bear the loss.

“We join all Nigerians in mourning his loss, and we pray that the Almighty God grants his family and loved ones the strength to bear this sorrow. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

Former President Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died on Friday in London after a prolonged illness.

He was 82. Tributes have continued to pour in from religious leaders, political figures, and citizens reflecting on his decades-long impact on Nigeria’s political landscape.

PHOTO NEWS: The Former Chief Of Staff To The Immediate Past Governor Of Imo State, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu And The Minister Of State For Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu At The Mbaise USA Convention In Minnesota, USA At The Weekend

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PHOTO NEWS: The Former Chief Of Staff To The Immediate Past Governor Of Imo State, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu And The Minister Of State For Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu At The Mbaise USA Convention In Minnesota, USA At The Weekend

Passing On Of Fmr President Muhammadu Buhari: A Great Loss To The Entire Nation- Matawalle

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The Honourable Minister of of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, extend his heartfelt condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London, and described his passing as a significant loss for the nation, particularly at a time when Nigeria could greatly benefit from his leadership style. He noted the important strides made in the defence sector under Buhari’s administration, particularly in empowering the Nigerian military to combat insecurity.

Minister Matawalle expressed that the loss is huge, not only for the Buhari family but for the entire nation that he served with unwavering dedication and commitment. He emphasized that during his tenure, President Buhari demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.

He highlighted that President Buhari will be remembered for his resilience, focus on national integrity, and visionary leadership aimed at fostering a prosperous Nigeria.

“The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire future generations as we navigate the challenges of nation-building,” he stated.

Condolences On The Passing Of Fmr President Muhammadu Buhari

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The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, extends his deepest condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London.

This was contained in a release signed by Patience Ituke
Principal superintendent of press(PSP)
for: Director of Information and Public Relations

Minister Badaru expressed that this loss is profound, not only for the Buhari family but for the entire nation that he served with unwavering dedication and commitment. He emphasized that during his tenure, President Buhari demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.

In his statement, Minister Badaru said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, government, and people of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari. We remember his dedication to democracy, stability, and the unity of our nation, as well as his unwavering commitment to the anti-corruption crusade, which endeared him to many Nigerians.

“May Allah grant him Aljana Firdausi and provide his family and all Nigerians with the fortitude to bear this great loss.”

PRESIDENT TINUBU ANNOUNCES THE PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT BUHARI, DIRECTS VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA TO LEAD REPATRIATION OF HIS REMAINS

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced, with deep sorrow, the passing of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari.

President Buhari passed away today in London at approximately 4:30 p.m., after a prolonged illness.

In a call to Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the late President’s widow, President Tinubu conveyed his heartfelt condolences and those of the nation.

As part of arrangements to honour the former leader, President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany President Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.

President Muhammadu Buhari was first elected as Nigeria’s President in 2015 and re-elected in 2019. He previously served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985.

To honour his memory, President Tinubu has ordered that all national flags fly at half-mast across the country.