The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to providing affordable housing for civil servants through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation’s (OHCSF) Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) programme, aligning with pillar six of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCCSIP-25).
Dr. Folasade Yemi Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF), made this known during a site inspection of the ongoing construction of 116 housing units of two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows at Gwagwalada, which are set to be allocated to core civil servants upon completion.
Yemi-Esan urged all contractors involved in making the estate habitable to expedite action on the provision of electricity, water, and internal road networks in the housing estate.
The estate, fully funded by the Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board (FGSHLB) and constructed in partnership with some real estate developers, is slated to be commissioned in June as part of the activities marking the 2024 Civil Service Week.
Ibrahim Mairiga, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board (FGSHLB), disclosed that two developers have already completed and handed over their buildings to the Board.
The commissioning of the FISH Estate, Mairiga emphasized, will underscore the present administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and well-being of civil servants, in line with its Strategic Plan.
…No modern conflict can be successfully prosecuted using only one element of national power
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, has advocated for jointness of Operations amongst all the security forces of the nation in combating modern conflicts saying that no modern conflict can be successfully prosecuted using only one element of national power.
The Minister said this while giving his closing remarks at the Air Power Consult Senior Leadership Forum on: “Emerging Trends and Threats in the Battle Space and their impact on employment of Airpower” .
According to Badaru, a nation needs a whole of government approach in fighting more modern conflicts. He said: “In reality and concomitant to this reality is that, in the use of the military element of national power, no single service can hope or expect to successfully overcome the modern hydra-headed complex conflicts. Therefore, we need to move away from paying mere lip service to something as fundamental to our success as a sector as Jointness.”
Furthermore, he said that Nigeria has conceptualized it. “We are using it in our training, we must adopt it in our operations. The Ministry of Defence will continue to enhance jointness within the armed forces, building upon the existing collaboration and cooperation that has been a hallmark since the inception of the present administration,” he explained.
He commended the organiser of the forum; a unique body of patriotic, retired senior Nigerian Air Force officers under the aegis of Air Power Consult, which was aptly described as “a body of thinkers”. “I appreciate you all for organizing this special forum to enlighten us and agitate our minds on emerging trends and threats in the contemporary battlespace, and their impact on the delivery and sustenance of Air Power,” he said.
“Your efforts and resources, in terms of time, intellectual and financial resources expended in putting together such an interaction as this, are clearly proofs of the patriotic zeal of these officers who despite having paid their dues and meritoriously served our nation and now retired, but still continue to concern themselves with the affairs of the Country,” he thanked them.
The Minister added that Air Power is essential and has a pivotal role in ensuring the successful outcome of any joint action and other aspects of modern conflict.
He said that the truth was perhaps at the root of the desire and clamour of every arm of our military and indeed the Nigeria Police and other para-military organizations like Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Federal Road Safety Corps to acquire organic air assets to support their individual operations.
“However, this desire and clamour must be interrogated dispassionately especially within the context of the fact that a whole Service, the Nigerian Air Force was established and is being funded and equipped to manage the nation’s air power,” he explained.
Also, the Minister explained that the emerging technologies are by their nature disruptive and particularly more so in the conduct of warfare and the resolution of conflicts. And to maintain our edge as the dominant military power in our region and to adequately confront the plethora of security challenges facing us as a nation, we must immediately begin to integrate these technologies into our warfighting capabilities. Our defence and services research and development outfits and must evolve from being mere “staff organizations” to actual development organizations.
“To this end, the Ministry of Defence will focus on establishing effective communication with the Ministries of Science and Technology, Communication, Trade and Investment, and other pertinent government ministries and agencies. This will facilitate the production and application of technologies developed by our research and development institutions,” he stated.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar kana, mni has said that Nigerian Government will continue to deepen military bilateral relations with the Tanzanian government.
Dr Kana stated this as contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr Director ( Information and Public Relations) of the ministry when he received the delegation from Tanzania National Defence College Course 12/2023/24 in Ship House who are on familiarization visit /study tour to Abuja.
According to him, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Tanzanian government have a good bilateral understanding on military relations.
He said that the familiarization visit/study tour by the Tanzanian National Defence College Course 12/2023/24 participants would open more high level discussion that will culminate into a more reinforced Military Cooperation as a working tool for greater achievements for Tanzania and Africa at large.
The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by the Director Joint Services Department, Mrs. Olu Mustapha received the delegation on behalf of the Permanent Secretary.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Commodore BT Rutambuka, SDS Navy commended the Permanent Secretary on the military cooperation between both countries.
He appreciated the Permanent Secretary for granting them audience adding that their visit to Nigeria was to seek more knowledge on the activities of the defence sector of Nigeria that will help them excel in their career.
In a strategic move aimed at elevating the efficiency and effectiveness of the Federal Capital Territory Civil Service Commission (FCT-CSC), Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has authorized the appointment of Umar Sanda Kuso as the Secretary of the FCT Civil Service Commission.
The appointment, formally communicated through a letter dated 16th April 2024 and signed by Dr. Udo Samuel Atang, the Head of the Civil Service, FCT, on behalf of the Minister, is slated for a tenure of five (5) years initially. This appointment, in accordance with the Act establishing the FCT Civil Service Commission, underscores the discretionary authority vested in the FCT Minister.
Kuso’s appointment carries with it the stipulated conditions of service and emoluments, subject to the Minister’s approval. The letter emphasizes the expectation for Kuso to actively contribute towards fulfilling the mandate of the Commission, thereby serving the residents of the FCT and the broader Nigerian populace.
Prior to assuming his new role as Secretary, Umar Sanda Kuso served commendably as the Director of Administration and Finance in the Land Administration Department of the FCT. Holding a degree in Political Science from Bayero University Kano, Kuso furthered his academic pursuit by obtaining a master’s degree from the same institution.
His educational background, complemented by his extensive tenure within the FCT Civil Service, positions Kuso as a proficient and adaptable administrator. Renowned for his adept administrative acumen and profound comprehension of civil service intricacies, Kuso has successfully navigated through various pivotal roles during his career trajectory.
The appointment of Kuso as the Secretary of the FCT-CSC underscores his remarkable administrative dexterity, which is indispensable for effectively managing intricate assignments within the FCT Administration.
Umar Sanda Kuso traces his roots to the Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State and leads a fulfilling personal life as a devoted family man with children. His inherent background and accrued experience uniquely qualify him to make significant contributions towards the operational objectives of the FCT Civil Service Commission.
As Umar Sanda Kuso embarks on his tenure as the Secretary of the FCT Civil Service Commission, stakeholders eagerly anticipate his leadership and anticipatory contributions towards propelling the Commission’s mandate forward and championing the welfare of FCT residents.
The Claimant before the Suit was a Staff of the Defendant employed as the Finance Manager whose employment was unlawfully terminated sometime on the 8th November, 2023.
As a rest of his unlawful termination of his employment, the Claimant filed a suit at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Abuja division before Hon. Justice E.D. Subilin.
The Claimant is suing the Defendant for unlawfully terminating his employment as Finance Manager and claiming that the termination of his employment be declared unlawfu, and damages of #20,000,000 and other reliefs.
The matter came up for hearing of the motion on notice for injunction to restrain the Defendant from filling the position of Finance Manager pending the hearing and determination of the suit on the 6th March, 2024 and ruling/hearing fixed for 15th and 16th April, 2024.
As the matter came up for ruling on the 15th April, 2024, the Claimant was in court while the Defendant was represented by Grace Mamswa, Esq (Legal Adviser of the Defendant). C. B. Ameh, Esq appeared for the Claimant while Caleb N. Ramnap, Esq appeared for the Defendant. The court delivered the ruling against the Applicant stating that the act sought to be restrained had already been done and so the court could not restrain the Defendant.
As hearing proceeded, the Claimant testified for himself where exhibits were tendered and admitted as Exhibits 1-17 respectively and he was Cross Examined by the Defendant’s counsel. The matter was adjourned to 10th May, 2024 for continuation of hearing.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, issued a stern warning to the Coordinator of Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Mr. Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, cautioning him against engaging in negotiations with contractors.
Instead, Wike emphasized the importance of Zulkiflu’s role in effectively coordinating activities in the satellite towns.
During the meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike underscored the significance of delivering tangible results and making a significant impact in the satellite towns in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Highlighting the numerous ongoing projects in these areas, Wike urged Zulkiflu to ensure their successful implementation while maintaining accountability and transparency, particularly in sanitation efforts within the satellite towns.
The minister sternly warned against corrupt practices and assured that payments for cleaning services would be scrutinized to ensure satisfactory completion of the job before funds are disbursed.
Wike reminded Zulkiflu that his appointment presents an opportunity to contribute to national development and urged him to uphold the values of diligence and integrity in carrying out his duties. He reiterated his stance against praise singing, emphasizing that the coordinator’s actions would speak for themselves.
In conclusion, Wike charged Zulkiflu to align his efforts with the government’s commitment to improving living conditions in the satellite towns and driving the agenda for renewed hope and development in the FCT.
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State took the opportunity at the Nigerian Police Awards and Commendation Night in Abuja to extend his heartfelt commendations to Commissioner of Police Mohammed Gumel for his exceptional contributions to maintaining peace in the state. Gumel’s recognition as the Community Policing Advocate of the Year Award recipient underscored his remarkable leadership and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
Yusuf lauded Gumel’s pivotal role in implementing effective community policing initiatives, which significantly contributed to enhancing peace and security across Kano State. Gumel’s strategic efforts, including the successful eradication of criminal elements from the notorious Dala Hills and the utilization of technology-driven policing methods, have yielded commendable results.
Having commenced his career as an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Gumel’s journey through various leadership roles within the Nigeria Police Force reflects his unwavering dedication and professionalism.
His extensive training, both locally and internationally, has equipped him with the necessary skills to excel in law enforcement.
Gumel’s exemplary service has not gone unnoticed, with recognition and awards bestowed upon him by prestigious organizations such as the UK Metropolitan Police Service and the UN Mission in Liberia Police Contingent Commander.
Furthermore, grassroots organizations and professional bodies have honored him for his outstanding commitment to service and leadership excellence.
Governor Yusuf’s acknowledgment of Gumel’s achievements underscores the significance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities in promoting peace and security.
Gumel’s dedication serves as a beacon of inspiration for fellow officers and underscores the positive impact of innovative policing strategies on society at large.
Consequent to his position on the recent attack on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR by a spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), it has come to the attention of The Minister that Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed who once served as the Spokesperson of the group and currently a Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Presidency took to his page on it to express a different position.
This was contained in a communique signed by the Honourable Minister, H.E Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON, Minister of State for Defence
According to Dr. Baba-Ahmed ,the stand of the minister against the unjust and spurious attack against the new administration of President Tinubu that is working very hard to reposition our country and economy for better as ‘ill-advised’. He suggested I could have done a better job in my defence of the administration where I have the rare honour to serve as a Minister.
Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s relationship and affinity with Northern Elders’ Forum(NEF)is well-known. The fact now is that he is an appointee of the administration as Special Adviser and it is incumbent on him to work for the success of the government he is part of, protect and defend the government against unjust and vicious attacks from those who hide under ethnic and other primordial interests to heat up the polity for myopic reasons
It is pertinent to state that every appointee of President Tinubu including Dr. Baba-Ahmed owe the government a copious duty to promote, elucidate and advance the good works and commendable efforts of the government across all sectors.
As appointees of the government from the North, we must all take a stand, be unequivocal and be counted in the roll of honours for our support and work for the success of the administration we are serving. This is not the time to keep quiet in the face of intimidation and misrepresentation of the efforts and achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR . We must stand up to be counted for being on the part of government or take our exit.
During the handover of 100 motorcycles to Area Councils and Security agencies in Abuja, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, issued a stern warning against the disappearance or misuse of the motorcycles, emphasizing their intended use for enhancing security in rural areas.
Wike stressed the importance of proper utilization of the motorcycles for combating crime in identified rural areas, cautioning against their use in the city center. He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to prioritize security and promised continued support to safeguard lives and properties.
In response, Commandant General of the Vigilance Group of Nigeria VGN, Navy Captain Abubakar Bakori Umar(retd), expressed gratitude for the donation of operational motorcycles to enhance community security in the six Area Councils of the FCT. He assured the Minister that the motorcycles would be judiciously deployed to strengthen rural security.
Umar highlighted the VGN’s role in providing vital intelligence to support counterinsurgency operations, stating that the motorcycles would enhance operational efficiency and reduce incident response time.
Additionally, FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Igweh, commended the Minister for providing motorcycles for the protection of the Area Councils. He acknowledged the diverse security needs across the FCT, emphasizing the necessity of speed boats and canoes in certain areas like Kuje and Bwari Area Councils.
CP Igweh expressed gratitude for the donation and highlighted the significance of various resources in securing the entirety of the FCT.
The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) extends its heartfelt commendation to His Excellency Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defense, for his outstanding performance and dedication to duty within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Matawalle has unequivocally emerged as the epitome of excellence, embodying unparalleled vigor and vision in his role.
This Commendation was contained in a press statement signed by Comrade Israel Uwejeyan National Coordinator, Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC).
Under Matawalle’s astute leadership, the Ministry of Defense has witnessed unprecedented strides, marked by a series of proactive measures aimed at safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
His relentless commitment to enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces and fostering strategic partnerships underscores his unwavering resolve to fortify the nation’s defense architecture.
Moreover, Matawalle’s inclusive approach to governance has fostered a conducive environment for dialogue and collaboration, thereby promoting unity and cohesion among diverse stakeholders.
His adept handling of complex security challenges demonstrates a rare blend of foresight and decisiveness, earning him admiration and respect from all quarters.
The NDYC acknowledges Matawalle’s tireless efforts in promoting peace and stability in the Niger Delta region, fostering sustainable development, and empowering the youth through various initiatives.
His proactive engagement with stakeholders and implementation of pragmatic policies have significantly contributed to the region’s socio-economic transformation and improved livelihoods.
In light of these remarkable achievements, the Niger Delta Youth Congress proudly hails Bello Matawalle as the best, most active, and most proactive Minister in the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
His exemplary leadership serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all Nigerians, and we pledge our unwavering support as he continues to steer the nation towards greater heights of peace, prosperity and progress.
