“In a bold move to combat illegal mining and protect revenue in the mining sector, the Federal Government has arrested three suspects and sealed an illegal mining site in Gaube, Kuje area council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This decisive action demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to regulating mining activities and promoting lawful operations.
Led by Assistant Commandant John Onoja Attah, the Mining Marshals, a specialized unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), carried out the operation following thorough intelligence gathering and surveillance.
The unit has been working tirelessly to identify and dismantle illegal mining operations across Nigeria.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects lacked the necessary documentation to operate at the site, effectively displacing a legitimate mining company with the required permits.
“This is a clear case of illegal miners displacing lawful miners and investors, which will not be tolerated,” stated the Commander of the Mining Marshals.
The suspects confessed to operating illegally for over a year, with over 2,000 tons of lithium found on-site at the time of their arrest.
The seized minerals and equipment have been marked for prosecution, with further investigations underway to uncover the full extent of the illegal operations.
The crackdown, part of “OPERATION HAYAKIN KOGO,” aims to eradicate illegal mining activities and foster a secure and prosperous mining sector.
The success of this operation is credited to the collaborative efforts of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi.
This operation sends a strong message to illegal miners and investors: the federal government will no longer tolerate activities that undermine the growth and development of Nigeria’s mining sector.”
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar CON who is currently attending the Schuman Security & Defence Forum in Brussels, Belgium. The Forum, which commenced today, featured high-level discussions on global security and defence strategies.
Badaru presented a keynote Address on Nigeria’s security situation and the country’s strategic approach to addressing contemporary security challenges. He said that the successes recorded in the fight against insurgency and terrorism were as a result of the nation’s defence and security architectures implemented by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, since the inception of his administration.
He highlighted some of the President’s defence and security architectures to include: the strengthening of regional and International security partnerships, signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, 2023, to enhance local defence production and reduce reliance on foreign arms imports, launch of the Nigerian Navy’s new warship, NNS Gusau, to strengthen maritime security and protect the nation’s territorial waters, approval of a comprehensive national security strategy to tackle emerging security threats and challenges, increase in military funding to enhance personnel welfare, training, and equipment and the introduction of a new counter-terrorism policy to combat Boko Haram and other terrorist groups.
According to him, the critical dialogues at the Forum is aimed to enhance international security cooperation and address contemporary defence challenges. He emphasized that the Forum provides a vital platform for Nigeria to engage with global partners and reinforce its commitment to regional and international peace and stability.
The Schuman Security & Defence Forum brings together EU Ministers of Defence, representatives from partner countries, international and regional organisations, think tanks, and academia to exchange views on common security challenges and responses.
The Forum is the second edition of the Schuman Security and Defence Forum, following the success of the first edition last year
The Forum which is being held at a time of heightened security concerns in Europe and globally, and is seen as an important opportunity for countries to come together and address common security challenges.
Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia have expressed strong disapproval of a social media report alleging poor breakfast provisions for FCT pilgrims. The controversy arose from viral posts by a Sahara reporter, claiming that after paying N8 million for the 2024 Hajj fare, pilgrims were receiving substandard meals.
Checks at the NAMA EL SRIYA HOTEL in Makkah revealed the report to be untrue. The pilgrims disassociated themselves from the claims, labeling them the work of social media influencers. Jibrin Madaki, a pilgrim, told Voice of Nigeria, “That person is just trying to be a mischief. I think he must have eaten more than half of that breakfast before he took the photo of the remnant and mischievously sent it to his friend who posted it on Facebook.”
Mr. Idris Jamilu, another pilgrim staying near Bin Laden Mosque, refuted the claims, stating, “If anybody should complain, it should be us (the pilgrims) and not someone in Nigeria. Look, nothing of such happened as has been speculated on social media. They are just looking for trouble.” He urged the media to verify information before publication.
Maryam Umar highlighted the inevitability of criticism, particularly given the Federal Government’s N90 billion subsidy for this year’s Hajj. She noted, “Most of the time we have to discard the leftovers because there is nobody in Saudi Arabia to give it to. So how can somebody snap his leftovers and send the photo to share as a full breakfast ration?”
Hajiya Hadiza, responsible for feeding the FCT Pilgrims, assured that adequate arrangements had been made for their stay in Makkah. She encouraged pilgrims to channel any complaints to the board, noting that no formal grievances had been received so far.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has emphasized the crucial role of local government systems in Nigeria’s national security architecture. He stressed the need for urgent legislation to safeguard and enhance the autonomy and effectiveness of local government administration to address critical national challenges.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations)
Represented by the Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar CON, President Tinubu made this declaration while presenting a keynote address at a National Discussion on Nigeria’s Security Challenge and Good Governance at the Local Government Level.
The event which was organized by the House of Representatives and held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.
The President highlighted the strategic position of local governments in promoting human security by delivering essential services like healthcare, education, sanitation, and social welfare programs directly to communities. He noted that empowered local governments can ensure communities are safe, prosperous, and resilient.
Expressing concern over the decline of the local government system, President Tinubu acknowledged its degradation and incapacitation have contributed significantly to developmental setbacks and the nation’s inability to effectively address prevailing national security threats.
He emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening local government systems to address social and economic challenges. Empowering local authorities with necessary resources and capacities to implement sustainable development initiatives can create sustainable opportunities and ensure a stable nation.
President Tinubu commended the House of Representatives and its partners, the UK International Development and PERL, for organizing this important national dialogue. He hoped that the event would yield plausible measures to rejuvenate the local government system in Nigeria.
The offensive article, “Tinubu’s Minister, submits the N200 billion budget for the project already existing”, written by a blogger called Echezonam Ibezim was primed to titilate your appetite for sensational hogwash, fast becoming the pastime of gatecrashers into journalism.
In the author’s desperation to report negatively, he betrayed gargantuan ignorance of the gaps in the country’s geo-data environment.
The Solid Minerals sector relies on scientific data on the nature and occurrence of rocks underground to determine reserves of commercial quantity that investors can use to make decisions on business ventures.
The National Geodata Centre lauded by KPMG is the repository of geological data. We have improved on it with the launch of the advanced Nigerian Minerals Resource Decision Support System, which the Minister launched on May 14. It aggregates geological, hydrological, demographic, and economic data to facilitate investment decision making.
A Geodata Centre is a repository. It is like a bucket or store of information. Its relevance to investors is the quality of its data.
It is obvious that the writer is unable to distinguish between the bucket and what it must contain ! To clarify, a bucket you wish to use to bath must have water. The bucket to paint must have emulsion.
The data centre we have established must have accurate and comprehensive data to cater to investors seeking to mine over 44 minerals. If it doesn’t, investors won’t take Nigeria seriously. If the government is able to make the data available at the data centre, it will de-risk investment and enable them to venture into actual extraction and processing.
However, the data in the facility is grossly inadequate, hence the need for ambitious and aggressive data gathering to fill the gap. This challenge was identified by the previous administration. It led to the implementation of the National Integrated Mineral Exploration Project. Due to funding constraints, NIMEP explored only five out of Nigeria’s 44 minerals and was restricted to specific regions of estimated occurrences.
These were Gold with Nickel and PGM; Pegmatite minerals ( Tantalum, Niobium, Tin and Lithium); Lead, Zinc and Silver; Baryte and Iron ore. Compare this with Sierra Leone which, between 2018 and 2022 spent $7.8 million to execute a nationwide Airborne Geophysiscal Survey of its 71,740 square kilometres enabling her to develop data sets on the occurrences and reserves of all key minerals.
With Nigeria’s land space of 923,768 square kilometres, more than 12 times the size of Sierra Leone, the cost of a similar Airborne Survey will exceed the N200 billion budget proposed – which is not even available !
Furthermore, Nigeria’s low investment in solid minerals exploration is an international embarrassment, and this administration is determined to reverse the stigma. According to Standard & Poor ‘s survey on exploration budgets of countries in Africa, Nigeria spent the least, only $2.5 million dollars on exploration in 2023 compared to Ivory Coast’s $ 147 million. The figures for a few other countries are DR Congo, $ 133 million, South Africa, $ 117 million, Ghana, 99.7 million, and Mali. $ 83 million are instructive.
The Minister’s budget proposal, tagged NIMEP 2, was conceived by the Ngerian Geological Survey Agency, to explore identified mineralised corridors, gather more data on government-owned licences, explore targeting methods for specific minerals and develop local exploration expertise.
There must be something wrong with a writer flinging ill-digested and ill-informed trash into the public space to raise false alarms. It comes from the permanent political campaign mindset that keeps the election loser on the field after the match has ended.
Now that you know the truth, be free from the bile and prejudices which goaded your ill-informed insinuations and have the courtesy to apologise.
Bamigbetan is Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
On his way to Kaduna, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E Dr Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON, spotted people gathered in clusters alongside Armed Forces personnel.
He promptly instructed his convoy to stop, allowing him to assess the situation.
He disembarked and entered the community near the Rijana Forward Operational Base, where he witnessed the aftermath of a successful operation against bandits. The Armed Forces had just recovered rustled cows, which were being temporarily held at a local school for onward transmission to the Kaduna State Government.
Dr. Matawalle commended their resilience and praised the security agents for their bravery. He also addressed the military men, the Police DPO, and other security agents present, charging them to continue protecting Nigerians with unwavering dedication.
This impromptu stoppage by Minister Matawalle serves as a morale booster and a demonstration of his commitment to supporting security agents in their vital work.
Alliance Hospital is celebrating a significant achievement in its IVF program with the successful delivery of its first set of triplets. This landmark success comes just over a year after the hospital’s state-of-the-art IVF center was commissioned.
According to Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chief Medical Director of Alliance Hospital, the IVF program has achieved a remarkable 70% success rate, surpassing global averages of 35-40%. He shared the inspiring story of a woman from Canada who became pregnant after multiple failed attempts at IVF in her home country. Currently, the IVF center has nearly 15 ongoing pregnancies, with the birth of the triplets being a particularly joyous occasion.
Dr. Otabor attributed the success to the hospital’s investment in top-tier equipment and dedicated personnel. “Our commitment to excellence has led to superior performance, and we are proud to be making a difference in the lives of families,” he said.
In addition to IVF services, Alliance Hospital also performs complex surgeries, including hip replacements and spine surgeries, showcasing its broad medical capabilities.
To celebrate the birth of the triplets, Alliance Hospital presented the family with walkers and announced a scholarship program for the children. Each child will receive ₦100,000 annually for primary and secondary education and ₦300,000 annually for university education.
Dr. Mike Enokela, Head of the IVF Center, expressed his delight at the milestone, noting the increasing demand for IVF services due to rising infertility rates. He emphasized that the center has attracted clients from both Nigeria and abroad, with impressive success rates and a reputation for helping women conceive when other centers could not.
The IVF center also offers advanced services like pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for couples at risk of genetic disorders, ensuring healthy pregnancies and fulfilling the desires of many families.
Dr. Enokela praised the hospital’s CMD for providing the enabling environment necessary for such success. “We are honored to be part of the journey, writing stories of joy and happiness for many families,” he concluded, celebrating the hospital’s role in transforming lives through its IVF program.
The Jigawa Conscience Alliance, a Pan Arewa group, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the appointment of Mr. Dickson Akor as a member of the Governing Board of the Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa. The group cited Akor’s past expulsion from the University of Abuja for examination malpractice as a key reason for their opposition.
In a statement issued by the group’s National Chairman, Hon. Abdulahi Shehu-Dutse, and made available to newsmen in Abuja, the group expressed dismay at the appointment, questioning how someone with such a tarnished academic record could be entrusted with a significant role in a university’s governance. Akor, a former sociology student, was expelled from the University of Abuja following his involvement in examination malpractice during a course, SOC 804, as confirmed by the university’s disciplinary committee and senate in October 2021.
Shehu-Dutse’s statement detailed the expulsion process, highlighting that Akor continues to falsely claim a master’s degree from the University of Abuja and parades himself with a procured honorary doctorate degree. The expulsion letter, dated November 5, 2021, and signed by Deputy Registrar Alkassim M. Umar, was referenced to validate these claims.
The group underscored the inappropriate nature of Akor’s appointment to a university governing board, stressing the potential damage to the institution’s integrity and the future of its students. They noted widespread concern among stakeholders from Jigawa and Kano states, as well as from the University of Abuja, regarding this “shameful” appointment.
Hon. Shehu-Dutse also referenced a previous lawsuit filed by Akor against the University of Abuja and its Vice Chancellor, which was dismissed for lack of merit by Honourable Justice A. I. Kutigi in November 2020. The group’s chairman urged President Tinubu and the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, to act swiftly in withdrawing Akor’s appointment to protect the institution’s reputation and educational standards.
The statement commended President Tinubu’s directive to review recent appointments in federal universities’ governing boards and emphasized that Akor’s removal should be a priority. Shehu-Dutse expressed confidence that Professor Mamman, known for his strict standards as the former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, would not tolerate such a controversial figure in the academic administration.
Attempts to reach Mr. Dickson Akor for comment were unsuccessful. A senior management staff member from the University of Abuja, preferring anonymity, confirmed the authenticity of the documents presented by the group and expressed frustration with Akor’s refusal to acknowledge his wrongdoings.
The Ministry of Education, when contacted, requested a formal written inquiry to respond to the issue.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has emphasized the significance of international cooperation and partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and other air forces worldwide.
Speaking as a Special Guest of Honour at the 60th Anniversary Celebration and Third African Air Force Forum Conference held at the International Conference Center, Abuja, the Minister stressed the importance of collaboration in enhancing capabilities and effective discharge of the Nigerian Air Force mandate.
Badaru commended the Nigerian Air Force for their substantial contributions to joint efforts in countering terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued the nation. He also praised the sharing of knowledge, experience, and resources with other air forces through platforms like the African Air Forces Forum.
The Minister acknowledged the challenging security landscape globally and in Nigeria, but expressed confidence in the Armed Forces’ ability to overcome these threats.
He highlighted the Federal Government’s significant investments in acquiring various platforms and defence equipment for the Nigerian Air Force, made possible through local and international partnerships.
Reiterating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to ending insecurity in Nigeria, the Minister emphasized that security remains a top priority, and no efforts will be spared in restoring peace and security in the country. He urged unity and determination in supporting the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and insurgency.
The ceremony’s highlight was a tour of the exhibition stands, where foreign air space technological firms showcased their innovations in the aviation sector, by the Minister along with the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and other Service Chiefs.
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has assured the Pakistan Government of Nigeria’s readiness to partner in the production of Defence equipment and hardware through the newly signed Nigerian Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public relations), Ministry of Defence.
The Minister who stated this when he received the delegation from the Pakistan Air Force led by AVM Zaeem on courtesy visit to his office in Ship House Abuja.
Dr Bello said that besides Nigeria’s willingness to partner with Pakistan to enhance military needs and requirements, the need to collaborate in exchange of real time intelligence sharing will also deepen the long time established relationship with Pakistan Government.
He assured the delegation that the Ministry will come up with the requirements for proper documentation and further engagements that will be of great benefit to both countries.
The delegation led by Air Vice Marshal Zaeem, are in Nigeria to participate in the 60th Anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force and 3rd African Air Force Forum slated for May,23rd and 24th 2024 in Abuja while the grand finale will be on May, 25th 2024 at Kaduna. This historic events will attract several Chiefs of Air Staff and many aerospace industry leaders from across the world.
Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the delegation AVM Zaeem said that Pakistan will support Nigeria in the Production of Military equipment cooperation to boost the nation’s fight against insecurity.
He further said that Nigeria and Pakistan have maintained military ties over the years and they are willing to help Nigeria fight insecurity by providing real time intelligence sharing and training.
