Saturday, September 21, 2024
Home Blog Page 28

Matawalle Reaffirms Stance on Ban of Unauthorized Camouflage Use

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

…Says ban on its use by other security agencies remains

Due to the present security situation in the country, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has reaffirmed the ban on unauthorized use of Military camouflage, saying that it was only the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force while on Joint Operation with the Military who are allowed by law to use the Military camouflage.

This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director (Press & Public Relations) of the Ministry of Defence.

The Minister’ call is coming at this time when criminals disguise as Military and Para Military personnels to cause havoc in the society.

“The present situation does not support the use of Military camouflage by people who are not authorized or not personnels of DHQ'” he said.

According to him, the criminals among us have had to take advantage of the Military, Police and other security agencies’ gears to perpetrate crimes.

The Minister emphasized that there was the need to streamline the personnels that are authorized to use the Military camouflage.

He said Government ban on other Para Military Agencies from the use of the Military camouflage was to bring sanity to the system and also as a way of checkmating criminal activities.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized the readiness of the Nigeria Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police to enforce the directive given by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, regarding the immediate cessation of the use of camouflage uniforms by para-military agencies.

“The circular titled Observation on Proliferation in the Use of Camouflage Uniforms by Other Security Agencies in Nigeria,” personally signed by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, mandated personnels of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and the Federal Fire Service, among others, to discontinue the use of camouflage uniforms henceforth, following the directive issued by ONSA.”

Accordingly, the Minister stated that the use of camouflage uniform by various security agencies other than the Armed Forces namely, the Army, Navy and the Air Force remain banned.

He however gave exception to the use by the Nigerian Police Force, which he said they can only use it when on Joint Operation with the Military.

He said the enforcement of the ban becomes imperative in view of the security implications and concerns raised on the clamour of duplicity and proliferation in the country.

He pointed out the importance of this caution saying that: “The measure is aimed at check mating crime rate in Nigeria, adding that if we identify those that are authorized to use the camouflage, we can quickly differentiate them from criminals that intend to confuse us,” he said.

Dr. Matawalle said that henceforth extant laws guiding the use of camouflage uniform in Nigeria would strictly be enforced.

House Committee Collaborates with Navy to Combat Oil Theft

By
Gladys Phillip
-
0

The House of Representatives Special Committee on Crude Oil Theft and Losses has sought collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to address the persistent stealing of the country’s crude oil. Committee Chairman, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, appealed to the Navy for relevant information to identify those behind the theft.

The committee aims to unravel the culprits responsible for the theft, which has been a major concern for the economy. Doguwa emphasized the economic impact of crude oil theft and its potential threat to national security.

During a special engagement with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala, Doguwa assured the Navy that any confidential information obtained would be handled with utmost care. The committee has initiated legislative work and plans to conduct public investigative hearings to address malpractices associated with oil theft.

In his remarks, Doguwa highlighted the economic consequences of failing to meet Nigeria’s oil production targets, attributing the shortfall to crude oil theft. The committee recently visited a site where two vessels involved in crude oil theft were arrested in Delta State.

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala, acknowledged the challenge of oil theft and emphasized the Navy’s commitment to collaborating with other agencies to address the issue. He highlighted the shortage of personnel in overseeing the vast waterways, which cover over 1/10th of Nigeria’s land space.

Ogala mentioned the Navy’s efforts in arresting vessels involved in oil theft, with 34 vessels arrested between July 2023 and the present date. He stressed the importance of collaboration with other agencies, communities, and international organizations to enhance maritime safety and security.

The Naval chief named two desk officers to collaborate with the House committee in addressing crude oil theft.

Hardship: Atiku Criticizes Tinubu’s Economic Policies

By
Mosali Edunosa
-
0

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has once again criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies, attributing them to the ongoing hardships faced by Nigerians. Atiku asserted that Tinubu’s administration failed to showcase concrete policy steps to address currency fluctuation and poverty.

In a statement, Atiku claimed that President Tinubu’s new foreign exchange (FX) management policy lacked proper plans and consultations with stakeholders. He expressed concern that the government did not anticipate or downplayed the potential negative consequences of its actions.

“At a meeting called at his instance on Thursday to address the Foreign Exchange crisis and the problem of economic downturn, among others, Bola Tinubu failed, yet again, to showcase any concrete policy steps that his administration is taking to contain the crises of currency fluctuation and poverty that face the country,” Atiku stated.

He argued that the government’s hasty implementation of the FX management policy without proper planning led to adverse consequences. Atiku emphasized the need for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to have independence in designing and implementing a sound FX Management Policy to address liquidity, regulate demand, manage FX backlogs, and achieve rate convergence.

While highlighting his policy prescriptions to rescue the country from economic challenges, Atiku referred to his document titled “My Covenant With Nigerians,” where he advocated for reforms in the foreign exchange market and the elimination of multiple exchange rate windows.

Atiku concluded by expressing confidence that with an open approach, control of internal corruption, and improved management of foreign loans, the Nigerian economy could gradually recover.

Gov’ Ododo Vows to Sustain War Against Criminals in Kogi

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his commitment to the ongoing battle against criminals and disruptive elements threatening the peace and security of lives and property in the state. The governor made this statement during a closed-door meeting with the chairmen of the 21 Local Government Councils, aimed at bolstering the state’s security architecture.

Governor Ododo pledged to allocate more resources to enhance the state’s existing security framework, making it more proactive in combating violent crimes. He emphasized that no efforts would be spared until Kogi is rid of criminal elements.

“Given the successes recorded by the immediate past administration of my predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in taming the menace of insecurity in the state, we must continue to accord top priority to the security of lives and property of the people,” Governor Ododo stated.

He underscored that security of lives and property remains the foremost priority of his government, and he is determined to protect the people of Kogi State at all costs.

“I have restated my commitment to the local government chairmen that security remains my first priority, and we must be prepared to do whatever it takes to secure every inch of Kogi State, and this is not negotiable,” emphasized the Governor.

Governor Ododo urged the local government chairmen to intensify efforts in securing all communities within their respective areas. He emphasized the importance of staying in touch with the people, considering them as primary sources of intelligence gathering for effective security interventions by the government.

Hardship: Be Patient with Tinubu, Akpabio, Wike Tell Nigerians

By
Roland Edet
-
0

Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Chief Nyesom Wike, have urged Nigerians to exercise patience, emphasizing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies are crucial for building a stronger and prosperous economy.

Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service organized in Koroma Tai LGA by Senator Barry Mpigi to appreciate God for his electoral victory, Akpabio emphasized that Tinubu’s policies are designed to gradually lead the country to the desired economic footprints, acknowledging that such achievements would take time.

Akpabio stated, “Be rest assured that we campaigned for this job and we will not let you down. All we need is patience. The rot that has happened in Nigeria for many years cannot be solved within months.”

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike acknowledged that Nigerians are expressing concerns about President Tinubu’s decisions but stressed that these decisions are essential for the country’s progress. He called for stakeholders’ support to address the inherited crisis and uphold the President’s decisions.

Wike noted, “I believe that God in his infinite mercy will give us the strength to work and continue to support Mr. President. The decision of Mr. President is hard but if we are patient at the end of the day we will get to where we want to go.”

Expressing surprise at the change in tone from governors and others who initially praised Tinubu, Wike urged Nigerians not to lose hope, pointing out that the administration’s positive impact in Abuja is a sign of better days ahead.

He praised the Senate President for his leadership, especially in maintaining a robust relationship between the National Assembly and the President. Wike emphasized the need for unity and collaboration to tackle issues like insecurity and hardship, irrespective of party affiliations.

In conclusion, Wike commended Senator Mpigi for his role and leadership, highlighting the uncommon unity observed in the National Assembly, where party lines are not strictly adhered to when addressing governance issues.

Police Arrests Five Suspects Over Diversion of UNWFP Goods

By
Uche Kingsley
-
0

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the arrest of five suspects involved in the diversion and theft of goods, with the recovered items belonging to the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP). The police emphasized their commitment to enforcing laws and implementing anti-crime strategies to combat illegal activities at various ports and economic hubs in Nigeria.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi disclosed the arrests and recovery in a statement, underscoring the force’s dedication to supporting the government’s agenda for quick economic recovery and development.

The Eastern Port Police Command confirmed the arrest of the suspects connected to the diversion of 1,840 bags of wheat meant for transportation from Ibeto Port Terminal, Port-Harcourt, to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Kano State. The fraudulently diverted bags were intercepted and recovered by police operatives on February 6, 2024.

The five suspects, identified as Umar Hashim, Edidiong Umoh, Udah Stanley, Abubakar Jariri, and Yunusa Babangida, were apprehended alongside the vehicles used in the crime—a truck and a bus. A total of 1,238 stolen bags of wheat were recovered and returned to the World Food Programme.

Efforts are underway to recover the remaining 602 bags of wheat and apprehend other suspects associated with the crime. The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated the police’s commitment to dealing with individuals engaged in activities that sabotage the country’s economy and cause hardships for vulnerable members of the public. The suspects will be charged to court upon the completion of investigations and tying up all loose ends.

Senate Approves Customs N5.09 Trillion Revenue Target, N706.4 Billion Budget for 2024

By
Nnenna Nwankwo
-
0

The Nigerian Senate has granted approval for a revenue target of N5.079 trillion and a budget of N706.4 billion for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in the fiscal year 2024. The approval came after the presentation of a report by Jibrin Isah, the Committee Chairman on Customs, Excise, and Tariff, during the plenary session last Thursday.

According to Isah, the breakdown of the budget includes personnel costs at N225.99 billion and overhead costs at N111.76 billion, constituting 31.99% and 15.82% of the budget, respectively. Ongoing capital projects are set at N148.42 billion, while new projects, representing 52.19% of the budget, have been allocated N220.26 billion.

Isah emphasized the importance of timely implementation of the 2024 fiscal policy, stating that it would enable the Nigeria Customs Service to commence the execution of its plans promptly. He highlighted the strategy of providing a flexible window to curb illegally imported vehicles and ensure the proper collection of import duties and penalty charges.

“As part of Customs strategy, the provision of the flexible window will help curb illegally imported vehicles and ensure the proper collection of expected import duties and 25 percent penalty charge from such category of transactions,” he explained.

Isah also noted that mechanisms such as systems audit, real-time auditing, post-clearance auditing, the institution of a revenue recovery committee, and other intelligence gathering tools would contribute to an intensive revenue recovery drive. He highlighted that the revised penalties and charges in the new Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, would enhance revenue generation for the service.

In terms of anti-smuggling and cargo tracking, Isah stated that the Nigeria Customs Service anticipates collaboration with the Shippers Council and other relevant government agencies to decongest and achieve efficient port operations, ultimately leading to increased revenue.

“As provided within the confines of Customs law, all required operational guides will be utilized to ensure that illicit trade that creates a sphere for revenue leakages, as well as economic sabotage, are reduced to the barest minimum,” he concluded.

Maiden Investment Summit to Project Benue as Economic Hub in North Central – Addingi

By
Uche Kingsley
-
0

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on International Investments, Sir Alex Addingi, has announced preparations for the 2024 Benue International Investment Summit (BIIS), scheduled for the second quarter of the year.

The summit aims to position Benue State as a pivotal economic hub in North Central Nigeria, focusing on various development pillars outlined by the Governor Alia-led government.Sir Addingi, also the Vice Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of BIIS, emphasized the significance of the event in attracting both local and international investors, industry experts, and stakeholders.

The inaugural LOC meeting took place last week with the State Deputy Governor, Barr. Samuel Ode, who is also the Chairman of BIIS, in attendance.Speaking to reporters, Sir Addingi explained, “The Summit would serve as a platform to project Benue State as a North Central Nigeria strategic hub for economic development to investors.

The overarching goal is to set in motion collaborative partnerships and possibly create hubs in the state.”He highlighted that BIIS goes beyond discussions and is a call to action, envisioning the birth of an ‘economic city’ that attracts foreign direct investment and nurtures a vibrant ecosystem for local businesses.

The Summit aims to capitalize on the unique resources, skilled workforce, and untapped opportunities in Benue State.Drawing inspiration from the seven pillars of the Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia-led Government of Benue State, BIIS focuses on functional education, employment generation, agricultural development, and growth with a particular emphasis on food production and processing.

Sir Addingi revealed that his office has been in contact with numerous investors already expressing interest in the Summit.

The Deputy Governor, Barr. Sam Ode, emphasized that BIIS would give rise to the “Benue Economic City (BEC),” a highly commercialized city with mixed development projects.

BEC is envisioned to have various commercial properties, including industrial parks, mega malls, cinemas, film studios, a mini health city, a world-class entertainment center, restaurants, hotels, banks, Diaspora estate, International conference center, luxury apartments, a golf course, and a mini sports center. Additionally, the project promises dedicated independent power supply, portable water, high-speed internet, high-tech security, and emergency services.

The 2024 BIIS, fueled by the vision of economic development and prosperity, is poised to be a transformative event for Benue State and its potential investors.

House Lauds TETFUND for Promoting Research, Innovations Amongst Nigerian Students, Youth

By
Olajumoke Sanusi
-
0

The Federal House of Representatives commended the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for its pivotal role in fostering creative research and establishing innovative hubs, enhancing science and technology education among Nigerian students and youth. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, expressed this appreciation at the closing ceremony of a two-week cohort learning program held at the Abuja Innov8 Hub.

During the ceremony, Deputy Speaker Kalu lauded TETFund’s “Research for Impact Initiative (R4i)” as a collaborative effort with Innov8 Hub, launched in 2022. This initiative aims to usher in a new era of innovation, technology, research, and development in Nigeria, with the objective of fostering economic growth and comprehensive national development.

“The House is interested in providing solutions to the hydra-headed needs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The call for innovation that will challenge tradition, to increase production; that call cannot be overemphasized,” stated Kalu. He emphasized the necessity of innovation in addressing the country’s challenges and acknowledged the role of programs like Innov8 Hub in empowering young minds.

Deputy Speaker Kalu also acknowledged the support of the Embassy of the State of Israel in Nigeria and the Israeli community in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Speaking about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for innovation, Kalu expressed his satisfaction with TETFund’s efforts, stating, “I’m proud of the work you are doing, and you should do some more. I’m impressed that you are planning to multiply this and incorporate innovators outside this hub.”

Furthermore, Deputy Speaker Kalu called for the establishment of similar innovation hubs across the South East region of Nigeria, aligning with the objectives of the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P). He emphasized that engaging young people in innovation and entrepreneurship can contribute significantly to lasting peace and development in the region.

In response, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono, highlighted the initiative’s role in repositioning public tertiary institutions as catalysts for national development and appreciated Innov8 for its partnership.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, an exhibition of group works developed during the two-week training, and a tour of the facilities for Deputy Speaker Kalu to witness the ongoing creative activities at the hub.

FG Chides PDP Governors, Says Resignation Call to Tinubu, Distraction

By
Roland Edet
-
0

The Federal Government has dismissed the recent call for the resignation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a mere distraction. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated in response that the call is an attempt to divert attention from the President’s ongoing efforts to provide economic relief to Nigerians.

According to a statement by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Minister Idris emphasized, “It is our considered view that the PDP and its Governors should not be seeking, through the back door of intimidation, what they have consistently failed to achieve by democratic means since 2015.”

The statement further highlighted the administration’s commitment to the economic well-being of the country. It pointed out the financial support extended to all state governments, irrespective of partisan affiliation, and the removal of the petrol subsidy, a key element of the PDP’s previous campaign.

“The President and his administration recognize the unfinished business of revamping our national economy kickstarted by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement noted, citing achievements in infrastructure, social welfare, military and security agencies’ support, and efforts against insurgency and criminal activities.

Highlighting the accomplishments of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, the statement mentioned clearing liabilities left by the previous government, major oil sector reforms, and successful management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to the PDP Governors, Minister Idris stated, “This is not the time for distraction. It is time instead for the rolling up of sleeves, to support and complement the hard work of the President and his administration.”

President Tinubu’s resilience and commitment to addressing the challenges facing the nation were reiterated, with a focus on laying a durable foundation for the emerging new Nigeria. The statement emphasized that he will not abdicate his responsibilities and remains dedicated to steering the country toward lasting prosperity and national development.

1...272829...297Page 28 of 297

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved