The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni is currently in Enugu on operational tour of 82 Division of Nigerian Army and other military platforms in Enugu.
He was received on arrival by the General officer Commanding 82 Division of the Nigerian Army / Commander JTF SE of operation Udoka Major-General H.T Dada and other senior military officers.
The Minister is expected to meet with South East stakeholders on the way forward.
Details later…….
….it is time to end it ..
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON has called on the Nigerian Airforce to intensify the use of their various platforms to bring an end to banditry and terrorism . According to the Minister, you are key to this this fight and we must put our acts together on your active component to end this war.
The Minister reiterated this as contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike
Director information and Public relations
Badaru said this during his operational visit to the Air Component Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at Katsina state on Monday 18th November 2024. The Honourable Minister appreciated the heroic Air warriors who has continued to shine as beacons of hope, courage and resilience which is an inspiration to Nigerian people.
Furthermore, “the Minister opined that their efforts are yielding positive results as farmers are gradually returning to their farms, schools are reopening, businesses are picking up and Nigerians can now sleep peacefully. “
According to the Minister, the President and commander in chief of the Armed forces Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has expressed confidence on their unwavering loyalty, perseverance and professionalism. He recognizes the personal sacrifices you make every day to keep our country together.
It is pertinent to know that the President has provided the Nigerian Airforce with state of the art Aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles to enhance their attack capabilities. With the induction of these new platforms including the T129 Attack Helicopter , ” I am confident we will make Mr President and Nigerians proud.”
Consequent to this, ‘it is no coincidence that I am here today to flag off this critical phase of the Operations’. “I therefore urge you to synergize with the ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum effect from these combat enablers” Badaru said.
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni continued his operational visit by also going to sokoto to inspect the combat readiness of the platforms and also toured the new site where the permanent base of the newly established Airforce component of military operations against banditry and terrorism and facilities will be built at sokoto Airport.
In his remarks, the chief of the Air staff , Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, appreciated the Minister’s servant leadership style which is an inspiration to all. For him , the T129 Attack Helicopters will transform our operational capabilities to those who think they can destabilize our nation.
The Nigerian Senate on Thursday approved a $2.209 billion (equivalent to N1.767 trillion) loan request by President Bola Tinubu to help address the N9.7 trillion deficit in the N28.7 trillion 2024 budget.
The approval, which came within 48 hours of receiving the President’s letter, highlights the urgency of financing critical development projects outlined in the 2024 Appropriation Act.
Fast-Tracked Deliberation
On Tuesday, President Tinubu formally requested approval from the National Assembly for the loan, emphasizing its importance in funding ongoing projects and economic programs. Following this, the Senate tasked its Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to review the proposal and provide recommendations within 24 hours.
Committee Report
Presenting the report, Senator Aliyu Wammako (APC, Sokoto North), Chairman of the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, described the loan as critical for Nigeria’s growth and stability.
According to the report:
The loan will help finance ongoing projects and key programs in the 2024 Appropriation Act.
It aligns with Nigeria’s Debt Management Strategy by reducing borrowing costs, extending public debt maturity, and increasing external reserves.
The loan is to be raised through various instruments, including Eurobonds, Sukuk issuance in the International Capital Market (ICM), and syndicated loans, depending on market conditions.
Senate Recommendations
The Committee recommended that the Senate approve:
Senate Approval and Commendation
Following the presentation, the Senate swiftly approved the loan request without opposition. The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended the Wammako-led Committee for its thorough analysis and timely delivery of the report.
Implications of the Loan
The loan will play a significant role in:
Reducing domestic market borrowing pressure.
Enhancing Nigeria’s external reserves.
Providing much-needed funding for capital projects and infrastructure development.
This approval underscores the Senate’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges while fostering growth through strategic investments.
The Federal House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Other Higher Technical Education has issued a stern warning to five Federal Polytechnics for failing to honor its invitation to present their budget performance reports.
The Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda, expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives from Federal Polytechnic Nekede (Imo State), Federal Polytechnic Ohodo (Enugu State), Federal Polytechnic Oko (Anambra State), Federal Polytechnic Akanu Ibiam (Ebonyi State), and Federal Polytechnic Isouchi (Abia State) during a meeting scheduled for November 20, 2024.
Legislative Oversight Dismissed as “Disregarded”
Addressing reporters after the aborted meeting, Rep. Laguda remarked, “This Committee views the absence of these institutions’ representatives as a sign of disregard for legislative oversight, and it will not be tolerated.”
He emphasized the critical role of legislative oversight in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the efficient functioning of federal institutions. He also reiterated that noncompliance with invitations undermines the accountability framework that guides public administration.
South-East Polytechnics Under Scrutiny
The Chairman expressed specific disappointment over the non-attendance by South-East institutions, noting that such behavior was unprecedented in the Committee’s interactions with other geopolitical zones.
“This is the first time we are witnessing such regrettable action from any polytechnic in Nigeria,” Laguda said. “Institutions from the North-West, North-Central, North-East, South-West, and South-South have complied with our engagements. It is surprising and disheartening that schools from the South-East have bluntly refused to honor this invitation.”
Missed Opportunities for Accountability
Rep. Laguda disclosed that the meeting, scheduled for 12:00 PM, was delayed for over 90 minutes due to the poor turnout. Only one institution’s representative arrived, and without the requisite documents.
“The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic in Abia State strolled in singlehandedly without any document whatsoever, claiming to attend the meeting. This level of unpreparedness is unacceptable,” he said.
Legal Backing for Legislative Oversight
The Committee reminded the defaulting institutions of the National Assembly’s constitutional authority under Sections 89 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). These sections empower the legislature to summon individuals, demand the submission of documents, and enforce attendance through warrants if necessary.
Additionally, the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act grants Committees the authority to summon any
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for greater collaboration among African militaries to address the continent’s shared security challenges. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming threats to Africa’s stability.
“No single nation can address its security challenges in isolation,” Tinubu said. “Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together as one united Africa. Today’s event is not just about extraordinary athletes; it is a powerful reminder of the cooperation that binds our military institutions across this continent.”
Reviving a Legacy of Military Cooperation
The Africa Military Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” revives an initiative launched over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya. The event aims to strengthen ties across African nations by fostering camaraderie, discipline, and resilience among military personnel.
Tinubu praised the leadership of Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Brigadier General Maikano Abdullahi, for their efforts in bringing the games back to life. He noted that the event symbolizes Africa’s collective potential.
“This historic platform not only promotes fitness and discipline but also reaffirms what we can achieve when we come together—not just as neighbors but as guardians of our shared continent,” Tinubu said.
Celebrating African Unity and Talent
General Christopher Musa described the Games as a testament to the unity and diversity of Africa’s armed forces. “These Games remind us of the power of cooperation and friendship,” Musa said, urging the 1,625 athletes and officials from 20 African nations to compete with fairness and sportsmanship.
Brigadier General Abdullahi highlighted the Games as a realization of OSMA’s founding vision. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for hosting the event, which he said showcases the rich cultural and athletic heritage of African militaries. “This is more than a competition; it is a platform to reignite the bonds that unite us as brothers and sisters in arms,” Abdullahi remarked.
A Grand Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony featured a vibrant display of African unity through calisthenics, the hoisting of OSMA and AMGA flags, torch lighting, and oath-taking by athletes. Nigerian music icons, including Timi Dakolo, Yemi Alade, Olamide, and D’banj, electrified the audience with performances, while a dazzling fireworks display concluded the evening.
The Games Ahead
Scheduled from November 18 to 30, the Africa Military Games will feature 20 sports events, with participants from across the continent. The competition underscores the critical role of military collaboration in promoting regional stability and safeguarding the future of a united and prosperous Africa. Athletes are encouraged to embody the spirit of unity, resilience, and fairness throughout the games.
This edition of the Africa Military Games not only celebrates athletic excellence but also strengthens the bonds of military cooperation, serving as a powerful reminder of what Africa can achieve through unity.
The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a one-week ultimatum to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to submit their reports on the establishment of state police. The failure of these states and the FCT to comply may delay the implementation of the long-anticipated policy aimed at addressing insecurity across Nigeria.
Background
The NEC, as part of its efforts to combat the escalating insecurity in the country, had resolved to gather comprehensive reports from all 36 states and the FCT on the framework for establishing state police. The decision aligns with the recommendation made by state governors and supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, on February 15, 2024, endorsed state police as a viable solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.
States were tasked with submitting their individual recommendations and proposals to guide NEC’s deliberations and inform the next steps in actualizing state police.
NEC’s Warning
In its latest meeting, NEC reiterated that any state or territory that fails to meet the submission deadline would have to abide by decisions made without its input. This serves as a final reminder to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply before the one-week deadline elapses.
Implications
The creation of state police is seen as a critical step in decentralizing Nigeria’s security architecture, granting states the autonomy to manage localized security issues. However, the delay caused by non-compliance from some states and the FCT could hinder progress, delaying deliberations and subsequent implementation of the policy.
NEC emphasized the importance of collective input to ensure that the framework for state police is inclusive, effective, and tailored to the specific needs of each state and region.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply and ensure that the critical process of establishing state police remains on track. The move toward decentralizing law enforcement is considered a significant reform in Nigeria’s efforts to address its multifaceted security challenges.
The House of Representatives has rejected a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to establish a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen. The bill, which underwent its second reading on Thursday, November 21, 2024, failed to gain the necessary support as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly against it.
Highlights of the Proposed Bill
The bill aimed to amend key sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), including Sections 76, 116, 132, and 136, with the following major provisions:
House Members’ Reactions
During the debate, proponents of the bill highlighted its potential to ensure stability, reduce the high costs of frequent elections, and address Nigeria’s governance challenges through rotational leadership. They argued that a single six-year term could eliminate distractions caused by re-election campaigns and focus leaders on governance.
However, the majority of lawmakers strongly opposed the bill, citing concerns about:
Democratic Principles: Many argued that the proposed single term would deprive citizens of the opportunity to hold leaders accountable through re-election.
Regional Tensions: The mandatory rotation of the presidency between North and South, and further among geopolitical zones, was seen as potentially divisive and overly prescriptive.
Implementation Challenges: The requirement for simultaneous elections and mid-term performance evaluations was criticized as cumbersome and unrealistic.
The Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, presided over the plenary session and, after putting the bill to a voice vote, declared that the “nays” had it.
Conclusion
The rejection of the bill underscores the challenges of achieving constitutional amendments in Nigeria, particularly on issues that directly impact political structures and power dynamics. As the debate over electoral and governance reforms continues, it remains to be seen whether similar proposals will be revisited or modified to gain broader acceptance in the future.
The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over its national chairmanship persists, with former party spokesperson Kola Ologbondiyan warning that any resolution outside the North-Central zone would be ineffective and detrimental to the party’s future.
The controversy began following the removal of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman in March 2023. Since then, Ambassador Umar Damagum, the Deputy National Chairman (North), has been serving in an acting capacity. However, Damagum’s prolonged tenure as acting chairman has sparked significant disputes, with court cases filed to prevent efforts to remove him.
North-Central Leadership: A Critical Demand
Speaking during an engagement with North-Central youths in Abuja, Ologbondiyan asserted that respecting the PDP’s zoning arrangement, as enshrined in Section 47(6) of the party’s Constitution (2017 Amendment), is crucial for resolving the leadership crisis.
“Anything outside of this demand will end up an exercise in futility,” he said, emphasizing that the North-Central region’s claim to the chairmanship remains the only viable pathway to restoring order within the PDP.
Respect for Party Constitution
Ologbondiyan stressed the importance of adhering to the party’s constitution and respecting the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC). He criticized the repeated postponements of NEC meetings, which, according to him, undermine the party’s constitutional order.
“The NEC, at its 98th meeting, resolved to address the demand of the North-Central during its 99th meeting scheduled for August. Unfortunately, this meeting has been postponed multiple times to the detriment of the party and Nigerians,” he lamented. He further called on party leaders to ensure that the upcoming NEC meeting on November 28 holds as planned.
A Call for Damagum’s Reversion
Ologbondiyan urged Ambassador Damagum to revert to his elected role as Deputy National Chairman (North) to restore constitutional order and prevent further harm to the party. He accused Damagum and his backers of “hurting Nigerians” by prolonging the crisis and called for immediate action to resolve the dispute.
“It is trite wisdom that as long as Damagum is being encouraged to continue to sit on the position of North-Central, the concept of fixing the PDP will be mere lip service that can cause the party more harm,” he stated.
Broader Implications for PDP and Nigeria
Highlighting the importance of resolving the leadership impasse, Ologbondiyan argued that a stable PDP is essential for addressing national challenges. He criticized those attempting to centralize control of the party, emphasizing that the PDP was established as the “Peoples Democratic Party,” owned by Nigerians and not by any individual or faction.
“The leaders must look at the bigger picture and address the truth wherever it is required. Those attempting to kill or render the PDP comatose must understand that the party is not a one-man organization,” he said.
Conclusion
As the PDP’s leadership crisis continues, Ologbondiyan’s remarks underscore the urgent need for constitutional adherence, respect for zoning arrangements, and transparent leadership. Whether the November 28 NEC meeting will provide a resolution remains to be seen, but the party’s unity and ability to function effectively in Nigeria’s political landscape hang in the balance.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the recent proposal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to borrow an additional N1.7 trillion, describing it as a “bone-crushing” move that places undue pressure on Nigerians and the economy.
In a statement on Thursday, Atiku criticized the government’s borrowing practices, particularly the lack of transparency and prudence in negotiating and utilizing loans. He raised alarm over a recent report by the World Bank, which positions Nigeria as the third most indebted country to the International Development Association (IDA).
A Troubling Pattern
Atiku highlighted the stark implications of Nigeria’s increasing debt burden. “This report is coming just when the government has already sent a proposal to the National Assembly, signaling an intention to borrow an additional N1.7 trillion to cover a shortfall in the 2024 budget through Eurobonds,” he stated.
He expressed concern over the proposal’s exchange rate benchmark of ₦800 per $1, which contrasts sharply with the current Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rate of over ₦1,600 per $1, suggesting potential hidden risks to the economy.
Questions About Revenue and Borrowing
Atiku also questioned the rationale for borrowing despite Tinubu’s claims of record-breaking revenue collection by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Nigeria Customs Service.
“If Tinubu could boast that FIRS and Customs under his watch have collected all-time high revenues to finance the budget, why then are they still borrowing? It means there’s something Tinubu’s administration is not telling Nigerians,” he said.
He accused the government of driving Nigeria deeper into debt while implementing “trial-and-error policies” that exacerbate economic hardship.
Allegations of Mismanagement
The former Vice President pointed to findings by BudgIT, a budget transparency organization, which described the 2024 budget as riddled with “pork-barrel” projects. He alleged that the government’s borrowing appetite is driven by corruption rather than infrastructure or developmental needs.
Atiku lamented the reversal of gains made during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, which had freed Nigeria from foreign debt burdens. “It is agonizing to see that a few years after President Obasanjo took our country out of foreign indebtedness, we are today back at the top spot in the same conundrum,” he stated.
A Call for Prudence
Atiku called for greater caution in Nigeria’s borrowing practices and urged the government to prioritize transparency and economic stability. “It is time that we apply more caution and arithmetic to this loan frenzy,” he concluded.
National Assembly’s Role Under Scrutiny
The former Vice President also criticized the National Assembly, describing it as complicit in enabling what he termed as reckless borrowing. He urged lawmakers to scrutinize the government’s loan proposals and protect Nigerians from further economic hardship.
Atiku’s remarks come amidst growing public debate over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, with analysts warning of its potential long-term consequences on economic growth and development.
Professor Stephen Ogaji, a renowned expert in the electricity industry, has revealed that Nigeria incurs an annual economic loss of $28 billion due to frequent power outages caused by grid collapses and disturbances. Prof. Ogaji shared these insights at the 2024 Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) Media Engagement and Training held in Abuja.
A Legacy of Grid Failures
Citing data from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Prof. Ogaji disclosed that between 2013 and 2020, the national grid failed 84 times and partially collapsed 43 times. The World Bank’s 2019 data further highlighted that Nigeria experienced electricity outages for 191 days out of 365 that year.
“The economic cost of power shortages in the country is estimated at $28 billion annually, equivalent to 2% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” Ogaji stated. He emphasized that the losses are not limited to the utilities but extend across the economy, impacting businesses, industries, and households.
Energy Losses and Financial Strain
Prof. Ogaji highlighted inefficiencies resulting from grid collapses and operational shutdowns, particularly at critical facilities like the Odukpani National Integrated Power Project (NIPP). He noted that frequent shutdowns, startup delays, and turbine malfunctions significantly increase energy and financial losses.
“Frequent startups and shutdowns result in inefficient gas utilization, reducing the energy generated to gas consumption ratio and decreasing thermal efficiency,” he explained. He further noted that gas vented during shutdowns and unutilized thermal energy add to the wastage.
Moreover, the Take-or-Pay (ToP) gas supply agreements impose heavy financial burdens on power generation companies (GenCos) when gas goes unused. Without a reliable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) as a backup, the mounting costs threaten the sustainability of power generation businesses.
Damage to Infrastructure
The ongoing outages have also led to thermal fatigue, damaging critical turbine components such as combustion liners, flow sleeves, crossfire tubes, fuel nozzles, and gas turbine first-stage buckets. Repairs for these components require millions of dollars, further exacerbating the economic toll.
Prof. Ogaji stressed that failure to address these challenges could result in reduced plant availability and spiraling generation costs, which already contribute to 59% of the average end-user electricity costs in Nigeria.
Recommendations for Stabilizing the Grid
To mitigate these persistent challenges, Prof. Ogaji proposed a series of reforms:
A Call for Proactive Action
Prof. Ogaji emphasized the urgency of taking proactive measures to prevent further disruptions to the grid and improve the reliability of gas turbines. “Failure to act will lead to reduced plant availability, higher generation costs, and diminished economic performance,” he warned.
A Path to Stability
As Nigeria grapples with one of the most unstable electricity grids in Africa, implementing these recommendations could provide a roadmap to stability. Beyond ensuring the functionality of thermal gas turbines, these steps could significantly improve power reliability, supporting businesses and households nationwide.
Prof. Ogaji’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for stakeholders across the power sector to address systemic inefficiencies and prioritize sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
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