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Silent Pandemic: Nigeria Faces Alarming Rise in Antimicrobial Resistance, Experts Warn

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

 

***If Unchecked, Could Led To 10 Million Deaths Annually By 2050

 

 

*** AMR Responsible For 263,400 Deaths Annually in Nigeria

 

 

*** With 64,500 Of These Fatalities Directly Caused By Resistant Infections

 

 

 

Nigeria is on the brink of a public health catastrophe as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) continues to escalate, placing the nation among the worst-hit globally.

 

Dr. Mary Alex-Wele, Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, Senior Lecturer, and Certified Infection Preventionist, has raised concerns over the country’s AMR-related mortality rate, ranking 19th out of 204 nations surveyed at a 5 Day Training and Capacity Building for journalists and SBOS on AMR Advocacy And Media Reporting organized by Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance Phase 11 in collaboration with Management Science for Health (MSH) with support from UKaid on Monday in Lagos state.

 

Globally, 4.95 million deaths are linked to AMR each year, with 1.27 million directly attributed to drug-resistant infections. “If this trend continues unchecked, we could see up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050,” Dr. Alex-Wele cautioned.

 

In Nigeria, AMR is responsible for 263,400 deaths annually, with 64,500 of these fatalities directly caused by resistant infections. Beyond the staggering human toll, AMR is expected to trigger economic losses amounting to $100 trillion globally, with a projected 3.8% GDP decline and severe disruptions in livestock production.

 

Dr. Alex-Wele emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies, increased research funding, and widespread public awareness campaigns. “Without immediate and sustained intervention, we are heading toward a post-antibiotic era where common infections become untreatable, reversing decades of medical progress,” she warned.

 

 

She highlighted the necessity of a coordinated response, advocating for the “One Health” approach a framework integrating human health, food production, environmental sustainability, and animal health.

 

“AMR is not a future threat; it is a present danger. Governments, industries, and communities must work together to safeguard our future,” stated Dr. Chavan Laxmikant, Technical Officer at WHO Nigeria.

 

The Interagency Coordination Group on AMR outlined key recommendations, including accelerating national response strategies, fostering innovation, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening global accountability. These measures are expected to mitigate the crisis and protect public health.

 

Recent health data positions AMR among the leading causes of death in Nigeria, surpassing fatalities from respiratory infections, enteric infections, maternal and neonatal disorders, and neglected tropical diseases. While diseases like tuberculosis and malaria remain major concerns, AMR’s silent rise has alarmed healthcare professionals.

 

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, rendering standard treatments ineffective. This results in prolonged illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality rates. The WHO has repeatedly warned that without urgent intervention, AMR could become the world’s leading cause of death.

 

The unchecked rise of AMR poses several threats: Increased morbidity and mortality; Longer hospital stays: Overburdening an already strained healthcare system; Costlier treatments: The need for more expensive antibiotics and procedures; Higher risk of resistant hospital-acquired infections; Complications in surgeries and routine medical treatments; and Financial losses in agriculture due to drug-resistant livestock diseases

 

In response to this crisis, Nigeria has developed two National Action Plans (NAPs) in the past eight years, aligned with the Global Action Plan on AMR. The latest, NAP 2.0, launched on October 18, 2024, will guide the country’s AMR mitigation efforts until 2028.

 

This plan, rooted in a multisectoral situation analysis, aims to: Strengthen surveillance and data collection; Promote responsible antibiotic use; Enhance infection prevention and control measures; Invest in research and development for alternative treatments; and Improve public education on AMR risks

 

As AMR continues to claim lives, immediate and sustained efforts are crucial to preventing a full-scale health crisis. The battle against AMR is not just for healthcare professionals but for every Nigerian, as inaction could have catastrophic

consequences for future generations.

 

Matawalle Highlights President Tinubu’s Reforms In The North Cautions Lawal

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

 

The Honorable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, has categorically refuted the recent comments by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding the 2027 Presidential ambitions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

Matawalle emphasized that President Tinubu has made commendable strides in governance and that Lawal and his associates will be surprised by the resounding support the President will receive from the North.

 

In his statement, Minister Matawalle noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions to all regions of Nigeria, including the North. The people of the North will rally behind Mr. President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated.”

 

The Minister highlighted several key areas where President Tinubu has made impactful reforms that warrant support from the Northern electorate particularly

Security and Defence:

In 2024, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. This robust action has significantly improved security across the North. The successful rescue of approximately 8,000 kidnap victims underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens. Also, the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.

 

Dr. Matawalle emphasized ‘The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security.

 

Looking at the administration from the economic point of view, the Minister said Economic Initiatives like

the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to tap into the agricultural potential of the North, promoting economic growth and empowering millions, particularly women and youths in the North. “This initiative is expected to transform rural communities and contribute to food Security. The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies“ he explained.

 

Furthermore, President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure projects that are vital for economic growth in the North, including road construction and improvement of transportation networks.

 

Also of importance is the Local Government Autonomy:

The local government autonomy signed into law by President Tinubu empowers local administrations to function effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots level.

 

Matawalle urged critics like Lawal to evaluate President Tinubu’s scorecard objectively rather than dismissing his efforts. “It is essential for us in the North to assess the tangible benefits of the President’s reforms. The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made,” he stated.

 

He concluded by affirming that the legacy of President Tinubu’s reforms is one of hope and progress for all Nigerians—young and old, male and female, in every corner of the country. “We must unite in our support for Mr. President as he continues to work towards a prosperous and secure Nigeria,” he emphasized.

 

Dr. Matawalle also reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to the Tinubu administration. ” Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria “.

Maintaining A Laudable Senatorial Legacy In Anambra South Requires Objectivity: Sir Azuka Okwuosa Is The Best Qualified

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

By:Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole

The sum of the personal values, accomplishments, and actions of Distinguished Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah which resonate in the minds of the people especially the good people of Anambra South will be wiped out within the shortest time if our judgement of who becomes the next Anambra South Senator is made on the altar of superficial sentiments.

Ebubechukwuuzo Nnewi’s laudable legacies of loving the people around him with his time, resources and attention; being the uncommon voice of ndị Anambra South in the Senate will phase out if we allow superficialities to becloud our sense of judgement.

Anambra South Senatorial District will retrogress far beyond expectations if we fail in doing what is just in the forthcoming Senatorial bye-election.

Sir Azuka Okwuosa who has proven his mettle beyond every reasonable doubts precedently, distinctly stands out amongst the contenders.

Let’s support a leader worthy of our trust to deliver.

Let’s support Chinyelugo for quality Representation in the Senate.

*AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Matawalle Calls For Assertiveness On Global Stage Following Visa Denial By Canada

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

 

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle , has issued a resolute call for Nigeria to assert its position on the global stage in the light of recent diplomatic incident involving the denial of visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation. This unfortunate event occurred while they were en route to a significant function honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada.

 

Matawalle expressed profound disappointment regarding the treatment of the Nigerian delegation, emphasizing that such actions jeopardize the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Canada. “This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity. We cannot allow our country to be treated with such disregard and levity on the international stage,” he stated.

 

He called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind this visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs. “We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes a firm diplomatic stance. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively,” Minister Matawalle declared.

 

The denial of visa raises significant concerns regarding Canada’s treatment of Nigerian military officials and the overall state of diplomatic relations between the two nations. While the specific reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, this incident underscores the persistent bureaucratic and political challenges that Nigerian officials encounter in international engagements.

 

He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its dignity and respect in the international arena, urging all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

Ortom, Anyanwu Shun PDP Disciplinary Panel, Former Governor Threatens Legal Action

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

 

The former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, and the embattled National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, on Wednesday, shunned the Tom Ikimi-led disciplinary committee of the party.

 

While the committee waited for over three hours for their appearance, it later rescheduled the hearing to March 4, 2025, citing the need for fair hearing.

 

Disciplinary Committee: We Sent Invitations Through Courier

 

Chairman of the disciplinary committee, Chief Tom Ikimi, told journalists that invitations were sent to both Ortom and Anyanwu through DHL courier service, with evidence of receipt. However, Ortom denied receiving the invitation.

 

> “We sent the invitations through DHL, and we have evidence that they received them. But in Ortom’s case, they said it was not received. So, we are giving them another opportunity by resending the invitation.”

 

 

 

For Anyanwu, the committee stated that he cited health challenges and presented a doctor’s report confirming a medical appointment on the scheduled day.

 

Ortom Demands Apology, Threatens Legal Action

 

In a swift response, Ortom issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the committee, demanding a public apology for allegedly defaming him.

 

Through his lawyer, C. T. Mue, Ortom accused the committee of violating the PDP Constitution by making public statements on allegations without first notifying him.

 

> “The premature publication of allegations against our client, without being duly informed, as provided by Section 57(4) of the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended), has led to public ridicule and reputational harm.”

 

 

 

Citing Section 57(7) of the PDP Constitution, Ortom argued that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to discipline a former governor or NEC member, rendering the disciplinary committee’s actions procedurally defective and unconstitutional.

 

Ortom’s demands include:

 

1. Immediate withdrawal of the committee’s press statement issued on February 5, 2025.

 

 

2. A written apology within 48 hours of receiving the letter.

 

 

3. Cessation of public commentary on the matter until formal notification of any allegations.

 

 

 

Failure to comply, the letter warned, would lead to legal action, including a defamation lawsuit and a petition under the Cybercrimes Act 2015.

 

Committee Justifies Disciplinary Actions

 

Defending its mandate, Ikimi clarified that the committee only acts on petitions received and does not initiate disciplinary cases independently.

 

> “This committee does not write petitions; we only attend to petitions sent to us. If there’s no petition against someone, we do nothing about it. We are not here to act on newspaper reports.”

 

 

 

On the issue of Anyanwu’s status as National Secretary, Ikimi maintained that the petition was sent to him in that capacity, and the committee would proceed accordingly unless officially informed otherwise.

 

With the hearing rescheduled for March 4, the PDP’s internal crisis appears far from over, as key figures in the party continue to

challenge the legitimacy of the disciplinary process.

 

PDP NWC Members Clash Over Affirmation of Udeh-Okoye as National Secretary

By
Roland Edet
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0

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was thrown into disarray on Wednesday over the affirmation of Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the party’s National Secretary.

The lingering leadership tussle over the position has continued to divide the NWC and other stakeholders, following a legal battle between Sen. Samuel Anyanwu and Udeh-Okoye. The crisis escalated despite the December 20, 2024, judgment of the Court of Appeal in Enugu, which upheld Udeh-Okoye as the rightful occupant of the position.

PDP Officially Recognizes Udeh-Okoye

In a statement on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, confirmed that the NWC had extensively deliberated on the matter during its meeting on February 12, 2025.

According to Ologunagba, the NWC thoroughly examined:

  • The Declaratory Judgment of the High Court of Enugu
  • The Court of Appeal Judgment affirming Udeh-Okoye
  • The Legal Opinions of Dr. Kabiru T. Turaki, SAN, and the PDP National Legal Adviser

Following its review, the NWC overwhelmingly endorsed Udeh-Okoye as the substantive National Secretary, affirming that there was no superseding judgment challenging the Court of Appeal’s decision.

“The NWC has commenced the transmission of its resolution affirming Rt. Hon. S.K.E Udeh-Okoye as PDP National Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies for recognition in line with the judgment of the Court of Appeal.”

Ologunagba further reassured party members that the NWC remains committed to the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), rule of law, and the party’s founding vision.

Anyanwu Rejects Affirmation, Says NWC Never Met

However, Sen. Anyanwu dismissed Ologunagba’s statement, insisting that the NWC never convened a meeting on the matter. He described the announcement as the position of a few individuals, rather than the entire NWC.

“The NWC never met; that is Ologunagba and a few others’ position. The matter was only discussed on the WhatsApp platform. Therefore, the NWC has not met regarding it, as the matter is still in court.”

Corroborating Anyanwu’s stance, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Amb. Umar Damagun, reportedly acknowledged that no physical NWC meeting was held to adopt any official position on the matter.

The development highlights the deepening internal crisis within the PDP, as factions continue to disagree over leadership decisions despite legal pronouncements.

AHF Nigeria Calls for Increased Condom Use to Curb HIV/AIDS Spread

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has emphasized that prioritizing condom use is a crucial step toward ending HIV/AIDS in society. The organization warned that the decline in condom usage has contributed to the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), making prevention efforts more challenging.

 

In a statement marking International Condom Day (ICD), AHF Nigeria reaffirmed that achieving the global goal of ending HIV/AIDS is impossible without promoting condoms as a key preventive tool.

 

As part of its advocacy, AHF Nigeria announced that it will launch a nationwide testing campaign and distribute free condoms across Benue, Abuja, and five other states to encourage safer sexual practices.

 

Call for Affordable and Accessible Condoms

 

The organization also criticized the high cost of condoms, citing that labeling them as medical devices has further driven up prices, making them less accessible to many people. AHF urged governments and stakeholders to eliminate barriers to condom affordability and prioritize funding to ensure wider access.

 

Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Program Director, reiterated the importance of condom use, stating:

 

> “We’re reminding everyone that using condoms is the best way to prevent HIV, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. AHF created this day (ICD) to promote safer sex and make condoms accessible for all. When used correctly, condoms provide effective protection for you and your partner. So, no excuses—wrap it up every time.”

 

 

 

Similarly, Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, highlighted the need for urgent action:

 

> “Condoms are the most cost-effective method of protection against HIV and other STIs, yet many Africans lack access due to stockouts, unaffordable prices, and high taxation. This International Condom Day, we call on governments and stakeholders to remove these barriers, prioritize funding, and ensure free or affordable condoms for all who need them.”

 

 

 

ICD Commemoration in Nigeria

 

AHF Nigeria has invited the public to participate in ICD activities, which will be commemorated in Lokoja, Kogi State, on February 13. The event will feature:

 

Exciting activities to promote safe sex awareness

 

Free condom distribution

 

Educational sessions on proper condom use

 

 

To raise awareness, AHF Nigeria will also organize a road walk in Kogi State, involving:

 

Students from higher institutions

 

Civil society organizations

 

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)

 

Officials from the Kogi State Ministry of Health and the State Agency for the Control of AIDS

 

 

The walk will begin at the Kogi State Ministry of Health, passing through major landmarks such as the Post Office, Ganaja Bridge, and Specialist Hospital, before concluding at the Federal University Lokoja.

 

Nationwide Testing and Awareness Campaigns

 

In addition to the Lokoja event, AHF Nigeria will conduct HIV testing and free condom distribution in its six operational states:

 

Abuja (FCT)

 

Anambra

 

Akwa Ibom

 

Benue

 

Cross River

 

Nasarawa

 

 

As part of youth engagement, young people from Kogi, Abuja, Benue, Cross River, and Nasarawa will participate in a video challenge to promote safe sex practices.

 

International Condom Day: Promoting Safer Sex

 

International Condom Day (ICD) is observed annually on February 13 to raise awareness about the importance of condoms in preventing HIV/AIDS, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. The day also serves as a platform to advocate for greater access to sexual health resources.

 

AHF Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safer sex practices and e

nsuring that condoms remain accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.

 

18 Directors Fail Written Exam in Permanent Secretaries Selection Process

By
Mosali Edunosa
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0

 

Eighteen out of twenty-nine directors who participated in the first-tier written examination for the selection of Permanent Secretaries in the Federal Civil Service have failed to meet the required standards, leaving only 11 candidates to advance to the next stage.

 

A statement released by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), confirmed the outcome, emphasizing the rigorous and merit-based nature of the selection process.

 

Commitment to Meritocracy and Transparency

 

Olotu reiterated the federal government’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and professionalism in appointing Permanent Secretaries, ensuring that only the most competent individuals assume leadership positions.

 

> “The outcome of the examination reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that only the most qualified individuals advance to leadership roles, in line with the vision for an efficient and professional public service.”

 

 

 

Next Stage: ICT Proficiency Test

 

According to the statement, the next phase of the selection process is a proficiency test in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

 

> “This stage is a critical component of the Permanent Secretary examination, designed to assess candidates’ digital competencies, a necessity for leading a technologically driven and innovative public sector.”

 

 

 

A Competitive and Credible Selection Process

 

Reacting to the results, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, emphasized that the selection process remains competitive, credible, and aligned with Nigeria’s governance and accountability objectives.

 

She reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the public service is led by visionary and competent professionals who can drive effective policy implementation and national development.

 

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Local Government Autonomy

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local governance and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy in Nigeria.

 

Speaking at the Nigeria Local Government Development Summit in Abuja, Minister Rt. Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo emphasized the importance of the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming financial and administrative autonomy for local governments.

 

Delivering a goodwill message at the opening of the two-day summit, themed “The Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy and the Future of Local Government Administration and Grassroots Development,” Jisalo noted that the forum brings together key stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, local government administrators, and development partners, to deliberate on the ruling’s impact.

 

Supreme Court Ruling: A Turning Point for Local Governance

 

Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelandu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties, speaking on behalf of the minister, described the ruling as an unprecedented opportunity to reshape grassroots governance, ensuring that resources and decision-making powers are directly accessible to local authorities.

 

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to translating the ruling into tangible development outcomes and fostering a more effective and accountable local government system.

 

> “Our Ministry is fully committed to enhancing intergovernmental collaboration to ensure that local government autonomy leads to meaningful development. A strong and effective local government system is the foundation of national progress, and we stand ready to support initiatives that strengthen governance at the grassroots in line with the 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”

 

 

 

Strengthening Governance at the Grassroots

 

Dr. Ihemelandu outlined plans to establish strategic partnerships with local governments, development agencies, and the private sector to enhance:

 

Capacity building

 

Infrastructure development

 

Improved service delivery

 

 

He further called on government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to collaborate in advancing policies that empower local governments to fulfill their constitutional mandate.

 

> “Local government autonomy must go beyond policy declarations; it requires deliberate action, strong intergovernmental cooperation, and accountability. This summit presents a crucial platform for exploring practical solutions and forging strategic partnerships that will drive real grassroots development,” he added.

 

 

 

A Roadmap for Local Government Autonomy

 

The summit, organized by the Committee on States and Local Government Administration, aims to chart a roadmap for the full implementation of local government autonomy in Nigeria. Participants are expected to engage in high-level discussions and develop strategies to enhance governance at the grassroots level.

 

The Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs reaffirmed its unwavering support for strengthening local governance and ensuring that autonomy translates into improved service delivery and sustainable development for all Nigerians.

 

INEC, Security Agencies Vow to Safeguard Electoral Integrity, Tackle Vote-Buying

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

 

In a renewed effort to protect Nigeria’s electoral process, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling vote-buying and electoral malpractice ahead of the 2025 and 2026 elections.

 

Speaking at the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, identified vote-buying as a major threat to free and fair elections, calling for stronger collaboration among security agencies to curb financial inducements.

 

Crackdown on Electoral Malpractice

 

Prof. Yakubu stressed that vote-buying extends beyond election day, pointing to financial inducement during party primaries as a key concern.

 

> “With the Anambra State governorship primaries scheduled for next month and the FCT Area Council elections set for June, security agencies must adopt proactive measures to ensure electoral credibility,” he stated.

 

 

 

He further highlighted that recent successful prosecutions in three states resulted from close collaboration with law enforcement and anti-graft agencies.

 

> “Beyond arresting vote buyers on election day, our active collaboration with anti-graft agencies has led to successful prosecutions,” Yakubu noted.

 

 

 

Election Logistics & Security Enhancements

 

Yakubu emphasized the importance of securing election logistics, citing lessons from the Ondo State governorship election, where improved coordination facilitated early voting and a peaceful election despite difficult terrain in riverine areas.

 

He urged security agencies to replicate this success in the Anambra governorship election on November 8, 2025, ensuring a smooth voting process.

 

NSA Calls for Technological Innovation in Election Security

 

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Hassan Abdullahi, Director of Internal Security at the NSA’s office, commended security agencies and INEC for strengthening election security in Edo and Ondo States.

 

He emphasized the role of technology in securing elections, highlighting:

 

Drone surveillance

 

Advanced communication systems

 

Real-time monitoring for rapid security response

 

 

These innovations, Ribadu said, helped mitigate threats and enhance voter safety.

 

Concerns Over Voter Apathy & Future Election Security

 

Despite improved security, Ribadu expressed concern over voter apathy in Edo and Ondo elections, urging greater public engagement ahead of upcoming polls.

 

> “While voter turnout fell below expectations, the electorate conducted themselves commendably. Aside from a few cases of agitation over delayed voting, the elections remained peaceful,” he observed.

 

 

 

He assured that special security attention will be given to the Anambra governorship election (Nov. 8, 2025) and the FCT Area Council elections (Feb. 21, 2026). Additionally, 16 bye-elections will be conducted across 12 states to fill vacant legislative seats at both federal and state levels.

 

“As we prepare for these crucial elections, we must strengthen security coordination, reinforce law enforcement interventions, and uphold electoral integrity t

o safeguard Nigeria’s democracy,” Ribadu affirmed.

 

 

 

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