The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Wednesday approved the renaming of the Ministry of Niger Delta to the Ministry of Regional Development.
At the meeting, presided over by President Bola Tinubu, the council also announced the scrapping of the Ministry of Sports Development.
Minister of Information and Communications, Mohammed Idris, confirmed the changes to State House correspondents.
The newly restructured Ministry of Regional Development will be headed by the current Minister of Niger Delta, Abubakar Momoh. It will now oversee various regional development commissions, including the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC).
President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action by removing five ministers from his cabinet with immediate effect.
The ministers affected by the shakeup include Barr. Uju-Ken Ohanenye, Minister of Women Affairs; Lola Ade-John, Minister of Tourism; Prof. Tahir Mamman, Minister of Education; Abdullahi Muhammad Gwarzo, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development; and Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development.
This development was confirmed on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
In addition to the ministerial changes, the President has also rebranded the Ministry of Niger Delta, renaming it the Ministry of Regional Development.
President Tinubu’s decision follows his earlier warnings that ministers who underperformed during the administration’s first year would face dismissal.
Nigeria is facing significant challenges in food security and governance, prompting former Ogun State Governor, Chief Oluwasegun Osoba, to call for urgent action.
In a recent interview in Abuja, Osoba emphasized that Nigeria has the potential to feed itself but is being hindered by insecurity in rural areas.
Osoba identified banditry and herdsmen-farmer conflicts as critical obstacles to achieving self-sufficiency in food production. The current state of insecurity has reduced access to farmlands, leading to lower agricultural output.
He lamented that the bandits are not allowing many farmers to go to the farm, and the clashes between herdsmen and farmers are undermining the country’s agricultural potential.
Nigeria’s dependence on food imports could lead to economic instability, despite its fertile land and favorable climate.
Food production is hampered by banditry, communal clashes, and herdsmen-farmer disputes, particularly in the northern and central regions, which are key agricultural zones.
Osoba stressed that Nigeria can feed itself, but the country’s agricultural potential is being undermined by persistent conflicts.
He compared Nigeria’s situation to global political dynamics, recalling past tensions between political leaders and their deputies as a metaphor for the broader governance issues affecting the country.
The former governor also touched on the difficulties facing Nigeria’s political system, particularly the strained relationships between governors and their deputies, which have led to frequent impeachments and political instability at the state level.
He noted that governors, who hold significant sway over state legislatures, often have the ability to remove their deputies with little resistance.
Osoba used the example of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who rose from being a deputy governor in Bayelsa State to becoming the nation’s vice president and eventually president, to illustrate how deputies can succeed despite the challenges.
He emphasized that political ambition and competence do not always translate into straightforward success due to entrenched power dynamics.
Osoba urged the government to take decisive steps in curbing insecurity and fostering good governance to ensure that Nigeria can fully leverage its agricultural potential.
He emphasized that securing the nation’s farmlands from bandits and fostering peaceful coexistence between herdsmen and farmers is essential for achieving sustainable development.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has called for a constitutional amendment to clearly define deputy governors’ roles in governance. Speaking at the 2024 National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria in Abuja, Ganduje emphasized the importance of cooperation between governors and deputies for effective governance.
Ganduje stressed that deputy governors are vital and encouraged them to build strong relationships with their principals. The conference, themed “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security, and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria,” brought together former deputy governors nationwide.
Dr. Chris Akomas, National Chairman of the Forum and former Abia State Deputy Governor, advocated for a State Economic Councils bill to address abandoned projects. He highlighted the forum’s partnership with the Polish Nigeria Business Council for knowledge sharing and expertise.
Obong Victor Attah, Chairman of the occasion, urged the forum to promote accountability, uphold Nigeria’s core values, and address challenges hindering progress. Chief Oluwasegun Osoba, Co-Chairman and former Ogun State Governor, advised deputy governors to foster positive relationships with governors to avoid conflicts.
Hon. Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, Director-General of the Forum, highlighted progress since 2011 and commitment to shaping Nigeria’s governance future.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared war on street begging, citing security threats and embarrassment to the nation’s capital.
Wike gave beggars a five-day ultimatum to vacate Abuja’s streets or face eviction.
He expressed concerns that some beggars may be criminals or informants.Separately, Wike emphasized the importance of balancing urban and rural development, ensuring Abuja competes favorably with global cities.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, highlighted Nigeria’s $3 trillion infrastructure gap and urged investment in roads, power, housing, healthcare, and education.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has sounded the alarm on the rising number of shanties and squatters taking over abandoned buildings and undeveloped plots in Abuja, posing significant security risks to residents.
To tackle this issue, the Administration has issued a strict directive to property owners, giving them a three-month ultimatum to develop and secure their properties.
According to Chief Felix Obuah, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council Coordinator, these abandoned structures have become hideouts for individuals with questionable intentions, threatening the safety of FCT residents.
The Administration stresses that urgent action is necessary to restore order and prevent these areas from becoming breeding grounds for criminal activity.
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Revocation of land titles
Demolition of abandoned structures
Directive to Property Owners:
Develop and secure properties within three months
Take necessary steps to prevent misuse of properties
The FCT Administration urges all stakeholders to comply with the directive and work together to maintain the city’s security and integrity.
By addressing abandoned and undeveloped properties, the Administration aims to create a safer, more orderly environment for all FCT residents
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E.Mohammed Badaru Abubakar , has commended the troops for their efforts in securing Kaduna State and making the Kaduna/Birnin Gwari road safe.
This commendation was contained in a release signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director (Information and Public Relations).
The Minister made the commendation during his two-day operational visit to Kaduna, the Minister visited various military formations, including the Headquarters Sub-Sector 3 Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma Birnin Gwari, 1 Division Area of Responsibility, Pole Wire Military Camp, and the Air Training Command of the Nigeria Air Force.
The Minister praised the troops for their resilience and hard work, which has led to significant security improvements in Birnin Gwari. “For the last six months, we have not heard of any kidnapping or ambush of civilians, aside from one or two engagements with bandits by the troops,” he said. “This is commendable, and I thank you on behalf of Mr. President, who is aware of the good work and has asked me to encourage you to continue and end the menace of banditry and other forms of criminalities.”
The Minister stated that his visit is to boost the morale of troops across military formations and to assess the operational capacity and strategic coordination to ensure enduring peace and stability in the region.
He acknowledged the significant security improvements in Birnin Gwari and charged them to sustain the fight against insecurity in the region.
Furthermore, the Minister highlighted the significant achievements they have recorded so far and charged them not to relent. He said: “As you all know, your efforts is crucial to the development of our nation. Security is Paramount to the development of any nation and what you are doing is key to Nigeria’s development. We all have to leave a peaceful and prosperous nation for our children and grand children.”
Speaking on the Troop’s Commitment, the representatives of the troops pledged their unwavering commitment to fighting insurgency and banditry.
The Chief of Staff, Section 1, Brigadier-General SS Shehu, assured the Minister of the division’s commitment to stemming prevailing threats by terrorists. Also, the Commanding Officer of Sub-Sector 3 Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma Birnin Gwari, Lt. Col. A Abdullahi, promised to sustain professionalism and maintain a secure security situation.
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has found himself at the center of both political storms and commendations as he navigates Nigeria’s complex security challenges, particularly in Zamfara State. Known for his relentless commitment to fighting banditry, Matawalle’s actions in defense of Nigeria’s security are increasingly being politicized. Yet, his determination to see an end to the region’s ongoing violence remains undeterred.
This is contained in the release signed by Malam Haruna Garba Public Analyst. As a former governor of Zamfara and a key figure in the war against banditry, Matawalle has a unique understanding of the local terrain and the root causes of the insecurity plaguing the region. Since he was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle has made significant strides in addressing the bandit crisis in Zamfara.
One of his most notable successes was the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu, achieved through coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. Matawalle’s proactive leadership, including his regular visits to the Sokoto base of Operation Hadarin Daji to boost troop morale, reflects his hands-on approach to combating the insurgency.
However, Matawalle’s efforts have been met with political jealousy, as critics, particularly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),have been attempting to discredit his good work. Instead of focusing on the urgent need to restore peace and security, the PDP has been viewing his progressive actions with myopic negativity tainted with unfounded allegations, turning a critical national security issue into a political battleground. This politicization, as pointed out by various commentators like Usman Abdullahi, distracts from the real issues at hand—finding lasting solutions to the insecurity in Zamfara.
Matawalle’s critics, particularly those within the political establishment, fear his growing influence and popularity among the Northern masses. His commitment to dismantling the networks of bandits and illegal mining operators, who have long exploited the region’s resources and created chaos, poses a direct threat to those who benefit from the instability. This explains the vigorous attempts to undermine him, but Matawalle remains focused on his mission.
The urgency of Zamfara’s situation cannot be overstated. The human cost of banditry is staggering, with communities devastated by kidnappings, murders, and forced displacement. The region’s socio-economic fabric is unraveling, with farmers unable to work in their fields, children kept from schools, and health services in disarray. While political distractions continue to cloud the security debate, Matawalle’s strategy—focusing on boosting troop readiness and eliminating key criminal figures—offers a glimpse of hope.
Matawalle’s critics may continue their campaign against him, but the facts on the ground are clear: the fight against banditry is far from over, and the stakes for the people of Zamfara are higher than ever. If his critics put aside partisan politics and unite to support ongoing security efforts, there is a real possibility that Zamfara could finally see peace. In the meantime, Matawalle’s resolve to bring an end to the bandit crisis remains as strong as ever. His commitment to a secure, peaceful Zamfara is a testament to his leadership and patriotism in the face of both political opposition and security threats.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has reassured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s dedication to tackling and eliminating security challenges nationwide.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director Information and Public Relations.
While speaking with newsmen after his courtesy call to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, during which Minister Badaru conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directives. He highlighted effective strategies to curb insecurity in the North-West region and nationwide, emphasizing consultations and engagements with Armed forces, stakeholders, and affected communities.
“This collaborative approach will enable the review of operational strategies and implement positive changes to enhance security,” he said.
Minister Badaru who is on a two-day visit to Kaduna state will visit the Headquarters of sub- sector 3 and section 1 Joint Task Force Operation Fansan Yamma Birnin Gwari Kaduna State, to boost troops’ morale.
Governor Sani commended Minister Badaru, noting the Joint Military Command demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to regional security. He urged the Minister to consider bringing Operation Safe Haven under 1 Division, Kaduna, and praised progress on Operation Safe Corridor
The Governor highlighted the importance of the establishment of a Command and Control Centre to coordinate joint efforts against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements .
The Honourable Minister of Defence,His Excellency Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and People of Jigawa State following the tragic fuel tanker explosion in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area.
The devastating incident, which occurred last Tuesday night, claimed the lives of more than 90 people and left over 50 others injured . The Minister expressed his deep sadness and sympathized with the families of the victims.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed precious lives and left many injured. My heart goes out to the people of Jigawa State during this difficult time. I pray that the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may Almighty God grant their families the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May the injured recover quickly and fully, the Minister said.
