The Honourable Ministers of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, and H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, had audience with Ambassadors from the African Union Peace and Security Council led by the Ambassador of Gambia to the African Union and H.E Jainaba Jagne ,the Chairperson of AU Peace and Security Council for the month of April, 2024 at Ship House, Abuja.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to regional security cooperation, stating that: “Nigeria will contribute to the proposed African Standby Force and that we are open to all possible collaborations with the African Union to ensure the security of Africa.”
Speaking on the just concluded Counter-terrorism Summit, Badaru said that Nigeria will abide with the resolution reached that would enhance the regional fight against terrorism and other criminalities.
He said: “Though it is still on paper, but I believe all council members are enthusiastic about the deliberation and on our part, we will work hard to contribute our best to see that our partnership on conflict resolution works.”
On her part, Her Excellency Jainaba Jagne commended the Nigerian Government for the hospitality and commitment to advancing the goals of the African Union. She said: “Today’s meeting underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing the common threats facing our continent. Nigeria’s leadership in this regard is commendable, and we look forward to continued collaboration towards a safer and more secure Africa.”
The meeting witnessed robust discussions on conflict resolution aimed at fostering closer collaboration among African nations in the fight against terrorism. The discussions are expected to inform future initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security mechanisms and enhancing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts across Africa.
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), a Federal Government Agency established 24 years ago by Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo with the oversight responsibility of facilitating a rapid socio-economic and overall growth of the people, making economically prosperous and politically stable. The leadership of this commission has at different points in time, been rallied to bad and corrupt leaders who did nothing but milk the Interventionist Agency dry. In a bid to redraft its pattern with critical focus of her creed”making a difference ” consultations, roundtable talk shops and recommendations were drawn to see to sustainable practice of this creed, hence the H. O. P. E for NigerDelta initiative.
Holistic Opportunities Programme/Projects for Engagements, aka “HOPE,” the “heartbeat” of the 7th board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, is aimed at transforming the fortunes of Niger Delta Youths, as the region has long been plagued with poverty and insecurity amongst several other social vices, because of the need to ultimately change the narrative of the Niger Delta region.
The workaholic Managing Director of the NDDC; Chief Samuel Ogbuku, PhD., who is a visionary administrator , directed Ambassador Blessing Fubara, the resource consultant, & his team to expanded the scope of PROJECT HOPE , to cover more areas as his mantra has always been “Signature projects that make a difference in the lives of Niger Deltans”. Dr Ogbuku’s major concern, is to completely change the narrative of Niger Delta Youths with a program that touches every youth no matter their level of education and exposure. Members 7th of the board quickly keyed into the idea as they saw workable models in line with the vision of the NDDC, which is “Making A Difference”. The resource consultant, Amb. Fubara had hinted that project HOPE is 18 years old and no board in the past understood the vision until the Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s led board who see the possibilities of reassuring H.O.P.E to the youths and people of Niger Delta region with the initiative.
Project HOPE covers: Niger Delta Youths Entrepreneurial Support Scheme (NDESS), Niger Delta Music and Arts Project (NDMAP), PROJECT 9.9.9, & Science & Technology.
Niger Delta Youths Entrepreneurial Support Scheme (NDESS): This scheme is designed to properly identify active and responsible new businesses, do proper Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registrations and documentations for such businesses and startups. NDESS also is designed to enable committed businesses from the region to grow into more coordinated and profitable ventures while putting into cognizance the importance of business certification and adequate regularization and financial documentations. The Scheme will incubate passionate and hopeful new businesses and help them grow organically into a full structured enterprising venture with the requisite mentorship and monitoring paraphernalia required for a value-based system.
The Niger Delta Music and Art Project (NDMAP) is designed to stimulate prospects for active and passionate young creatives/Entertainers. Preserve and Promote the rich cultural heritage of the Niger delta region through music and art. To also, Provide a platform for indigenous creatives to showcase their talent, fostering a sense of pride and identity within the region. The Niger Delta Music and Arts Project are designed to create platforms, enable talents, and empower creatives in five considered skills set of this specimen: Music production, Cinematography, Creative content, Movie.
Project 9,000 Jobs, 9 Industries in 9 Months (9.9.9)
This specimen (project) has been duly designed to harness and secure alternative sources of funding from International, National, Multinational, Community/government, and Private Sector Investors in the areas of shared PPP interest, geared towards achieving long-lasting, focused, and profitable drive. The Model shall be executed in three Phases before Transfer: Phase 1 – Immediate, Phase 2 – Intermediate, Phase 3 – Management.
At the immediate phase, project hope will acquire lands and required mechanisms, onboard target communities, etc. The intermediate phase involves setting up the different project multi-agro industries, according to individual State’s specimen, Onward deployment, activation, and commencement of the overall project design. The management phase involves the entire project management Phase before Transfer.
The idea is to engage 1,000 youths in each of the 9 Niger Delta States which will overall translate to 9,000 Jobs.
Science & Technology Program of project hope covers everything as regards to equipping Niger Delta Youths with the required Information technology (IT) skills which include: Cybersecurity, database administration, web development, cloud engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), networking, software development, systems analysis, etc. Since Tech is the new liquid gold, the NDDC’s Holistic Opportunity Programs Empowerment (HOPE) will train willing Niger Delta youths between 6-9 months ensuring they are grounded and can compete with tech experts from around the Globe, giving them an advantage and ease to create employment for themselves as well as securing well-paid jobs.
End Note:
Project HOPE is truly the Hope for Niger Delta youths as it will address youths of the region irrespective of their background, exposure or educational/technical qualifications provided they are within 18-45. For the first time since the inception of NDDC, this is a program that holistically addresses the needs of Niger Delta region youths. So whether the youth has interest in agriculture, IT, Music & Arts, entrepreneurship or skilled labor, project hope will empower them to compete at the highest level with youths from other regions. Kudos to the record breaking Chief Samuel Ogbuku PhD., MD/CEO NDDC for approving and enlarging the scope of the program. With this, The future of Niger Delta Youths is SECURED.
To register in project HOPE database or for inquiries kindly click:
Regional Director for Africa, has hailed the remarkable impact of immunization on public health in the region over the past five decades.
Marking African Vaccination Week and World Vaccination Week, Dr. Moeti praised the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) for its pivotal role in expanding vaccine coverage from six to fourteen vaccine-preventable diseases, saving countless lives across Africa.
The EPI’s achievements include:- Eradication of smallpox and wild poliovirus- 76% reduction in measles deaths between 2000 and 2022- Significant decline in meningitis-related deaths thanks to the meningitis A vaccine- Near elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in 43 out of 47 high-burden African countries Dr. Moeti attributed the consistent increase in immunization coverage to strong collaborations with member states, international organizations, and local communities, bolstered by initiatives like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and the Immunization Agenda 2030.
Despite challenges like infrastructure deficits, healthcare worker shortages, and misinformation, African nations have prioritized health investments, leading to significant advancements in public health systems and immunization coverage.
Dr. Moeti highlighted the introduction of the malaria vaccine as a groundbreaking development in the fight against the disease, with the potential to drastically change the malarial landscape in Africa.
As WHO and its partners continue to support member states in improving vaccine access and coverage, Dr. Moeti calls for continued commitment and collaboration to achieve the ambitious health targets set for 2030.
She expressed gratitude to all health workers and communities for their relentless efforts in advancing the health and well-being of the continent’s Populations.
Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the highly anticipated all-electric G-Class, dubbed the G 580, featuring cutting-edge EQ Technology, with an estimated price tag of $180,000.
The announcement was made public by Sawyer Merritt, co-founder of TwinBirch, who shared details about the vehicle on his X handle on Wednesday.
The G 580 with EQ Technology boasts a formidable 116 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing ample energy for its operations. Notably, its robust design enables it to traverse through water depths of up to 33.5 inches, demonstrating its versatility in various terrains.
Equipped with a 200 kW max charging speed and a state-of-the-art 12.3-inch touchscreen interface, the vehicle offers both convenience and advanced technological features. Furthermore, the battery is safeguarded by a sturdy 1-inch thick skid plate, ensuring its protection during off-road adventures.
Weighing in at 127 lbs and boasting numerous other features, the G 580 stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the luxury vehicle market.
“This electric powerhouse represents a significant milestone for Mercedes-Benz, merging our iconic G-Class design with the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology,” remarked a spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz. “We believe the G 580 will revolutionize the landscape of luxury vehicles, offering customers unparalleled performance and environmental responsibility.”
Deliveries of the all-electric G-Class are expected to commence later this year, marking a significant step forward in Mercedes-Benz’s electrification journey. The announcement fulfills the company’s earlier commitment made in 2022 to introduce an electric variant of the G-Class by the end of 2024.
In response to a natural disaster that prompted the escape of 119 inmates from the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has committed to substantial reforms in Nigeria’s correctional facilities.
On Wednesday night, an unexpected severe downpour resulted in critical damage to the Suleja facility, particularly breaching the perimeter fence and allowing inmates to escape. Following the incident, the minister surveyed the damage and addressed the media, emphasizing the urgent need for nationwide custodial reform.
“The storm led to a significant breach in the security of the facility, enabling some inmates to escape. We have recaptured 10, but 109 remain at large,” said Minister Tunji-Ojo. “We are actively working to apprehend the remaining escapees and prevent future incidents of this nature.”
Minister Tunji-Ojo acknowledged the role of deteriorating infrastructure in the security lapse. “The walls are visibly aged. This incident underlines the critical need for regular updates and maintenance of our custodial facilities,” he remarked.
During his address, the minister pointed out that the Suleja Centre was holding nearly double its intended capacity at the time of the breach, with 499 inmates housed in a facility designed for 250. He cited this overcrowding as a pressing issue that exacerbates the risk of further breaches and hampers effective management.
In discussing long-term strategies, Minister Tunji-Ojo outlined a plan to relocate correctional centers away from urban centers to enhance security and infrastructure. “Relocation will help mitigate risks and improve the management of these facilities. We are coordinating with other agencies to ensure that these plans are executed efficiently,” he stated.
As immediate actions continue to focus on recapturing the escaped inmates, the Minister emphasized that these incidents serve as a stark reminder of the broader structural issues plaguing the nation’s correctional system.
“This is not just about rectifying the breach but also about ensuring such vulnerabilities are comprehensively addressed across all our facilities to prevent recurrence,” Tunji-Ojo concluded, signaling a committed shift towards reform and improved security in Nigeria’s correctional system.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has reiterated Nigeria’s enthusiasm for attracting global mining heavyweights, citing ongoing reforms and efforts to boost sector efficiency.
During a meeting with Glencore’s Group CEO, Mr. Gary Nagle, Dr. Alake showcased Nigeria’s wealth of critical minerals like Lithium, gold, zinc, and nickel, highlighting their soaring global demand.
Dr. Alake assured Glencore of the government’s commitment to creating a favorable operating environment and efficient governance structure for the sector.
He urged the company to capitalize on Nigeria’s inviting investment climate, offering incentives like tax waivers, profit repatriation policies, and ease of doing business initiatives.
Dr. Alake pledged to address any concerns Glencore might have, ensuring seamless operations.
Mr. Nagle praised the reforms in the mining sector and the economy, emphasizing the need for policy stability. He expressed interest in investing in nickel, cobalt, zinc, and other minerals, stressing the importance of a stable business climate.
In a related development, Dr. Alake presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of the ASBA-Wisdom Lithium processing plant in Abuja, aligning with the government’s value addition policy.
The plant aims to produce 1.6 million tonnes of processed lithium annually and create employment opportunities for 1,200 Nigerians.
Dr. Alake assured the federal government’s support for the Lithium project, underscoring the importance of diversifying the economy through mining sector development, a key aspect of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
In a bid to enhance the effectiveness of emergency response services in Abuja, the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Mr. Felix Obuah, has pledged to strengthen the capabilities of the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD).
During a visit to the department, Obuah assured FEMD of improved support under the renewed administration led by President Bola Tinubu, promising to address concerns and challenges faced by the department.
He emphasized the importance of teamwork and understanding among staff to achieve the department’s mandate of reducing disaster risks and responding efficiently to emergencies.
Obuah committed to implementing the department’s budget fully to enhance service delivery, ensuring that FEMD has the necessary resources to respond promptly and effectively to emergencies.
In response, FEMD Director, Mr. Ibrahim Sabo, highlighted the department’s well-coordinated structure and system for timely emergency response.
Despite achievements, Sabo identified challenges such as inadequate office space, vehicles, equipment, and personal protective gear, which hinder the department’s ability to respond efficiently.
To improve response times, Sabo proposed the establishment of Area Offices and Ambulance Points across the city. Other directors echoed the need for additional ambulances, equipment, and funding to provide relief and rehabilitation to disaster victims.
The visit underscores AMMC’s commitment to bolstering FEMD’s capacity and addressing operational challenges, ultimately ensuring efficient emergency response services for Abuja residents.
With this pledge, FEMD is poised to become a more robust and effective emergency response force, better equipped to handle emergencies and keep Abuja safe.
In a virtual address to the Nigeria-Australia Investment Roundtable, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, showcased Nigeria’s potential as Africa’s prime mining investment hub.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, combating illegal mining, and enhancing security around mining areas.
Dr. Alake announced the establishment of the elite “Mining Marshals” force, comprising 2,220 personnel, which has significantly curtailed illegal mining activities and enforced regulatory compliance.
He also assured Australian investors of Nigeria’s readiness for joint ventures through the impending establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation.
The Minister emphasized Nigeria’s proactive stance towards engaging investors in critical mineral ventures, such as Lithium, Gold, Baryte Lead, and Iron-ore.
He disclosed intensified scrutiny on defaulters of annual service fees to curb speculation and license racketeering. Approval processes for mineral permits and licenses have been streamlined, alongside the publication of monthly mining statistics to foster sector transparency and development.
Dr. Alake urged investors to prioritize Nigeria, highlighting favorable policies, including tax waivers and capital repatriation.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to providing incentives and facilitating ease of doing business under the Tinubu administration.
As Chairman of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), Dr. Alake emphasized the importance of value addition in mineral exploitation across Africa.
Nigeria’s proactive approach, requiring post-extraction processing plans for mining license approvals, serves as a model for promoting value addition policies continent-wide.
Dr. Alake called on African nations to unite in advocating for value addition, believing that embracing this policy will yield mutual benefits for investors and host countries alike.
With Nigeria poised to become Africa’s mining investment hub, the Minister’s address has sent a clear message to investors: Nigeria is open for business!
***Says call for Tinubu’s Minister to brace up is patriotic, democratic
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has stepped forward to defend the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amidst a wave of criticism following his recent remarks concerning the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
At a press conference organized by HURIWA in Abuja today, the prominent civil rights advocacy group expressed concern that Matawalle’s comments sparked controversy after he advocated for steadfast support for President Tinubu’s administration, particularly from appointees from the Northern region. HURIWA highlighted that in his statement, Matawalle emphasized the imperative of collective solidarity and unwavering loyalty to the government’s initiatives aimed at advancing the nation’s interests.
“Minister Matawalle, in a press statement released on Monday, April 15, 2024, emphasized the importance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointees from the North taking a stand and showing unequivocal support for the administration. He highlighted that every appointee must promote and defend the government against unjust attacks.
“In reaction to Matawalle’s comments, former senator, Kabiru Marafa demanded an apology, urging the Minister to withdraw his statement, which he (Marafa) described as portraying the NEF as a “burden” and “paperweights”. Marafa argued that Matawalle’s remarks were not reflective of President Tinubu’s position, emphasizing Tinubu’s high regard for Northerners and their leaders”.
However, speaking at the press conference, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, deemed Matawalle’s stance as not only justified but also necessary for the continuity of developmental efforts initiated by the current administration. Onwubiko vehemently rejected attempts to misconstrue Matawalle’s remarks as divisive or inappropriate, asserting that Matawalle’s call for public solidarity with President Tinubu’s administration is both genuine and essential.
The leading human rights group further highlighted the significant contributions made by President Tinubu in appointing individuals from the Northern region to key positions in his government. They emphasized that Matawalle’s advocacy for collective support is a testament to his loyalty to the administration that appointed him.
The Association referenced the recent remarks made by the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, regarding President Tinubu’s deliberate appointment of Northerners into key positions as a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the North, indicating a genuine concern for the region’s welfare. They dismissed the attacks against Matawalle as disguised attempts to undermine the achievements of President Tinubu’s government and urged Nigerians to focus on the collective progress of the nation.
“It is imperative to highlight the key facts noted by the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, regarding President Tinubu’s deliberate appointment of Northerners into key positions. Ribadu’s remarks, delivered during a lecture as part of the activities marking the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st combined convocation of Usmanu Danfordiyo University, Sokoto, underscore President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the North, ranging from insecurity to poverty.
“President Tinubu’s strategic appointments reflect his determination to ensure that these issues are squarely addressed, demonstrating his genuine concern for the welfare of the region and the nation as a whole.
“Hence, Minister Matawalle’s call for public solidarity with President Tinubu’s administration is not only commendable but also a genuine advocacy for collective support, extending beyond Northerners in government to all individuals entrusted with national responsibilities by President Tinubu. Those who oppose Minister Matawalle’s clear-headed call for 100% loyalty to President Tinubu’s government are, in essence, political adversaries of the President, hiding their disloyalty under the guise of attacking Matawalle,” HURIWA argued.
Moreover, despite the recent criticisms, HURIWA encouraged Minister Matawalle to continue boldly speaking out in support of President Tinubu’s administration, urging all Northerners entrusted with national responsibilities by President Tinubu to heed the call for unity and solidarity. The organization also urged President Tinubu to take note of the coordinated attacks against his Minister of State for Defence and to remain steadfast in advancing the agenda of his administration.
They concluded by emphasizing the need for all appointed officials, particularly those from the Northern Region, to stand firm in their support for President Tinubu’s government and its developmental initiatives.
A heavy downpour on Wednesday night wreaked havoc on the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, resulting in extensive damage to the facility and the escape of 118 inmates.
According to a statement issued by Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the downpour caused severe damage to the custodial centre’s infrastructure, including a breach in the perimeter fence, which allowed the inmates to flee.
In response to the incident, the NCoS swiftly activated its recapturing protocols and initiated collaboration with other security agencies to recover the escaped inmates. As a result, 10 of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured.
Efforts to recapture the remaining escaped inmates are currently underway, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the public.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by custodial facilities during adverse weather conditions and highlights the importance of robust security measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
