Isaac Aregbesola - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Thu, 2024

FG promises justice for victims of terrorism

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that victims of terrorism get justice.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, gave the assurance at the launch of the Model Legal Provisions (MLP) for Victims of Terrorism, at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on Wednesday in Abuja.

The minister was represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Babadoko.

He said the event marked a significant step forward in the collective efforts to address the needs and rights of victims and survivors of terrorism.

According to him, Nigeria has been at the forefront of the global fight against terrorism.

“We have witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of terrorist attacks, which not only claim lives but also leave lasting scars on individuals, families, and communities.

“As Government, we recognise the importance of addressing the needs of victims, as the scourge of terrorism has cast a long shadow over the nation, leaving behind a trail of suffering, loss, and trauma.

“It is therefore imperative that we not only combat terrorism but also provide comprehensive support to its victims.

“As the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, I am committed to ensuring that the rights of victims are upheld and that justice is served,’’ he said.

Fagbemi said the government had taken significant strides in recent years to enhance its counterterrorism efforts like the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, with its provisions for the Victim Support Trust Fund.

According to him, Section 91 of the Act establishes the Victim Support Trust Fund, which aims to provide financial assistance and other forms of support to victims of terrorism.

He added that Section 92 of the Act made provision for establishing the Trust Fund Committee for the purpose of administering the fund.

He gave assurance of his office’s commitment, as the custodian of the law, to ensuring the effective implementation of those provisions and the Model Legal Provisions.

“Today, we gather to launch a technical assistance project aimed at implementing Model Legal Provisions for Victims of Terrorism.

“We are confident that this technical assistance project will play a pivotal role in building the capacity of our legal and judicial institutions to effectively apply these provisions.

“By adopting and implementing these provisions, we will ensure that victims receive the necessary support, compensation, and rehabilitation they need to rebuild their lives,’’ he added.

The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said that Nigeria had borne witness to the extreme consequences of terrorism since 2009, with women, children, and youth disproportionately affected over the years.

Laka said that children had been abducted and forcibly trained to fight, young girls used in suicide missions and exploited as sex slaves, and survivors left with deep scars of trauma and stigmatisation.

According to him, these tragic events have shattered families and left entire communities grappling with fear, loss, and a deep sense of insecurity.

“Beyond the immediate victims, the ripple effects are felt in the displacement of populations, the disruption of education, and the breakdown of social cohesion.

“Against this backdrop, today’s launch of the MLP Project to support the needs and protect the rights of victims and survivors of terrorism marks a significant step forward,’’ he said.

Laka said the project was aimed at building Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute terrorist offences, while ensuring robust support for victims. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Wed, 2024

Defence/Security

IEDs poses major threat to counter-insurgency operations – NCTC boss

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), has said that the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists poses a threat to counterterrorism operations.

Laka said this on Tuesday, at a two-day Counter Improvised Explosive Device Training for various security agencies and services, organised by the NCTC, in Abuja.

He said that IEDs had become a tool of terror used by insurgents, militants, bandits and criminal elements to destabilise communities, destroy infrastructure and inflict fear and suffering on innocent lives.

According to him, the recent blackout in the Northern part of the country was caused by terrorists that destroyed five power transmission lines using improvised explosive devices.

Laka said the training was part of the planning by the Presidential Communication, Command and Control Centre in preparation for 2024 Crisis Response Exercise, scheduled for Nov. 25 to Nov. 29.

He said the exercise was aimed at empowering security agencies and relevant ministries, departments and agencies on interagency cooperation and coordination using the National Crisis Management Doctrine during national crises.

According to him, the counter IEDs training is to further create a platform for the NCTC to assess the readiness of participants in countering improvised explosive device procedures and operations.

“It is therefore carefully designed to refresh and sustain the capabilities of explosive ordnance disposal and canon operator on the effective operations of the various counter IEDs equipment at their disposal.

“It is also planned to test the participants’ command and control structures and to ensure that decision making processes are clear, swift and efficient,’’ he said.

The NCTC coordinator urged the participants to be open-minded and engage in a way that would allow them to learn from each other’s expertise.

According to him, this approach will lead to a successful exercise, rapid response and thereafter enhance the national security of our dear country in the long term. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Sat, 2024

General News

NSA hands over 58 rescued victims to Kaduna govt

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Saturday, handed over 58 people rescued by the security agencies in joint operations to the Kaduna State Government.

Ribadu handed over the victims to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, who will hand them over to the government.

Gen. Musa who presented the victims to the representative of the state government and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sani Kila, said that no money was paid for their rescue.

” The rescue is as a result of combined efforts of the military and other security services.

“The operation was both kinetic and non-kinetic which requires efforts by all and not just the military kinetic efforts,” he said.

The CDS said that all Nigerians must take ownership of the operation for the security agencies to succeed.

“What we are seeing out of this, is the success of the collaboration right from the top. From the presidency, to the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ministry of Defence to all agencies working together, including the Kaduna State Government.

“The governor has been very supportive and very helpful and it is this collaborative effort that has made it possible for us to be able to rescue these individuals.

“It is a joint effort and we were able to do that through non-kinetic means of getting across. No penny was paid for these individuals,” .

“Now, I want Nigerians to understand that if we do not work together, it will be extremely difficult for us to succeed.

“The success depends on all of us working together because it is a whole-of-society approach,” said.

Musa said that certain individuals had been trying to make it impossible for the government to succeed by sabotaging the efforts of the government.

He added that the security agencies were working round the lock tirelessly to make sure Nigerians feel safe and protected.

“Today is Saturday, many people would have wanted to be home, relaxing, but we are working. Saturday, Sunday, day and night and all Nigerians have keyed up, and everybody is contributing to the success we are seeing.

“I want to also inform Nigerians that we will continue to work hard together and will not leave any stone unturned until every Nigerian that is in captivity is freed and Nigerians are free to move about within the country, both day and night, as it used to be before.

“We assure Nigerians that we are getting all the support to ensure that we work, and we assure Mr. President that we will do everything possible, and including Nigerians, until we succeed, we’ll continue to push,” he added.

The defence chief clarified that contrary to the believes of many, not all persons involved in banditry were willing tools, adding that some were conscripted.

He said the military will continue to go after the perpetrators, adding :”they will not be let free for the innocent blood they have shed”.

The National Coordinator National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the victims were kidnapped from their homes and farm lands in Gayam, Sabon layi and Kwaga villages of Dan Musa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Laka said that troops of I Division, on Nov. 14, at about 1500hrs successfully led a joint operations leading to their rescue.

He said the victims comprised 35 males and 23 females.

According to the him, preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were kidnapped by suspected armed bandits under the command of a notorious bandit called JANBROS.

“During the kidnap, the victims were made to trek for hundreds of Kilometers through the thick forest of Birnin Gwari.

“Upon their rescue, the government provided them with all the necessary assistance required to stabilise them for subsequent handing over to ONSA for rehabilitation and immediate medical checkups, where they have been examined and six were admitted.

“The six admitted victims have recovered and joined us for subsequent handing over to their respective families,” he said.

The Chief of Staff to Kaduna Governor, Sani Limankila thanked the security agencies and called on all Nigerians to team up with security agencies to end kidnapping. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Fri, 2024

General News

Take active role in anti-corruption war– ICPC boss tasks women, youth

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The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), has urged women and youths to take a more active role in the fight against corruption and other social vices in the county.

Aliyu made the call in his address of welcome at a one-day workshop for women and youths on corruption prevention at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference has as its theme: “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption”.

The ICPC boss said that women and the youth disproportionately experienced the effects of corruption in society, and urged them to rise to fight against it.

Aliyu stated that the conference was put together as a pivotal event dedicated to empowering two key groups, women and young people in the fight against corruption.

”Today’s workshop is not just an event; it is a crucial platform that aims to highlight the pivotal roles that women and the youth play in the fight against corruption.

”By uniting our voices and resources, we can amplify our impact and drive meaningful change in our communities.

”Engaging women and young people in this battle is essential, as they are often the first to feel the effects of corruption, yet they hold the keys to innovative solutions and transformative leadership,” he said.

Aliyu said further that the workshop stands as a pillar of public engagement, fully aligned with the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act of 2000, the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028.

“ICPC is committed to leveraging technology for mobilisation, building inclusive coalitions, and empowering marginalised voices to foster a more just and equitable society.

”By engaging women and youth, our over-arching objective is for our anti-corruption efforts to become more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable.

”It is also to enhance credibility, increased public support, innovative solutions, long-term impact and, of course, a more just and equitable society for Nigerians,” he said.

In her address, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, wife of the President, said that when corruption thrives, the most vulnerable women, children, and marginalised communities bear the heaviest burden.

”It is for their sake, and the future of our beloved country, that we must remain resolute in our efforts to combat this scourge.

“As we gather today, let us reflect on the words of our elders: ‘It takes a village to raise a child;’ and in the same vein, it takes the collective will of the entire nation to defeat corruption.

“We cannot leave this battle to government agencies alone,” she said.

The President’s wife commended the ICPC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to the cause of anti-corruption.

The conference brings together leaders, activists, policymakers, and community members to address the unique challenges women and youth face in combating corruption.

Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the conference aims to equip participants with strategies against corruption.

It also aims to support networks to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within their communities and institutions.(NAN (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Fri, 2024

General News

Video: Army holds service of songs in honour of Lagbaja

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army on Thursday held a Service of Songs in honour of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed on after a brief illness on Nov. 5.

The service of songs marked the commencement of the burial rites for the late COAS whose remains was flown into Abuja on Thursday from Lagos.

Speaking on behalf of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Maj.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, reminisced on their journey at the Nigeria Defense Academy.

Aligbe, who is the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), noted that the late COAS and 199 of them assembled for training as members of the course on Sept. 12, 1992.

He said that they trained and were commissioned together into the armed forces, adding that the late Lagbaja right from onset led with no doubt.

“He was first and foremost an operational commander.

“Little wonder that while commands in the services are sometimes difficult to come by, he had the privilege of being the only person, if my memory serves me right, to have commanded a battalion at two different times.

“He commanded brigades at two different times. He was a General Officer Commanding at two different times.

“He was primed for the operation that he led, through which, even though they say soldiers don’t die, his memories, they fade away.

“The only way my course mates and I and the other members of the armed forces, officers and soldiers that he left behind, can honor his memory truly, is to continue what he believed in.

*He believed in the indivisibility of Nigeria. He believed in service. He gave everything. At the risk of sounding immodest, I don’t know if we gave him enough.

“Dear course mate, dear friend, dear boss, sleep until we meet again,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Hajiya Bilikisu Ibrahim, described the late COAS as a man that gave hope and courage to those he served and led.

Ibrahim said that the memory of Lagbaja would remain indelible in the hearts of every member of the Nigerian army family for a very long time.

“In every step, he walked a path of growth, of unyielding strength and dedication to the service of Nigeria.

“To those he served, he was a pillar of protection, an unwavering beacon amidst storms of insanity and threats.

“But beyond our soldiers was a man of faith, a spirit rooted in devotion and conviction in the trials of duty, he held fast to his spirituality, finding in prayers the fortitude that guided him through the darkest battles.

“His beliefs were his anchor, a quiet force that strengthened him as he led a sacrifice for the nation he loved.

“His life was not only a mission of arms, but of the heart of journey where faith met duty and courage met compassion.

“As we gather hands held in solace and grief, we recall the gentleness in his smile, the depth of his wisdom, the vision that he led armies and inspired peace,” she said.

The Global President of St. Charles Grammar School Osogbo Old Boys Association, Mr Tade Adekunle, read a poem written by one of the current students of the school, in honor of the late COAS.

Adekunle disclosed that the poem was written by an SS2 student named, Agboola Rahim.

Part of the poem reads, “the immortal hero, a militant heart, now still and cold.

“The nation mourn, both young and old. A warrior’s soul, a poet’s might on the field of faith, you shone so bright.

“With every piece of bread, you shield our motherland leading brave men with a steadfast hand, but now empty blade of honor now laid down.

“Its cannon’s cry extinguished, yet legend remains. A warrior’s pulse, now stilled in time. On the altar of freedom, you laid your life, your sacrifice, our beacon of hope”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had in attendance, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, who led other service chiefs including the Acting COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla.

Others were the Chief of the Air Staff represented by AVM Iboro Etukudo; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

Also in attendance are the Comptroller -General, Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, former service chiefs, retired military officers, wives of the service chiefs flanked the wife of the late COAS, Mrs Mariya Lagbaja.

According to the burial programme, funeral service will hold at the National Christian Centre while the interment follows at the National Military Cemetery Abuja on Friday. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Maureen Atuonwu

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Thu, 2024

Defence/Security

ICPC warns MDA heads against `banana peels’

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has warned government officials to shun corrupt practices.

The commission urged heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government to avoid common leadership pitfalls, that could lead to disgraceful end of their career.

The Chairman of ICPC, Dr Musa Aliyu, SAN gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja, at an interactive session with the Chief Executive Officers of public agencies on corruption prevention within the public service.

The event was organised by the ICPC research and training school, Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN), with support from the MacArthur Foundation, as part of its corruption prevention mandate.

Aliyu said that the commission would not hesitate to investigate and prosecute any chief executive officer of MDA indulged in corrupt practices.

According to him, indulging in shady or sharp practices could sometimes result in investigation and eventual prosecution of the chief executive officers.

He expressed worry that many good people fell into corruption when appointed as chief executive officers, due to lack of knowledge on how to handle internal practices that could be traps.

He said that it was imperative for them to know the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ so that they do not become victims or get co-opted into aiding and abetting corruption within their agencies.

The ICPC chairman said that the commission had developed the session to ensure that CEOs came up with individual and collective strategies for corruption prevention.

“Corruption is a major cog in the wheel of our collective aspirations and meaningful development as a people.

“Undoubtedly, the havoc that corruption has done to the public service and our nation at large can not be quantified.

“In recognition of the importance of leadership in ensuring that corruption is diminished in the public sector, this executive session is designed to generate discussions.

“It will focus on how best we can collaboratively prevent corruption in our MDAs, with the understanding and agreement that prevention is better than cure,“ he said.

He said that the objectives of the session included helping CEOs identify corruption risks in their agencies, so as to develop appropriate prevention measures.

“It is also to help them avoid common leadership pitfalls that sometimes result in investigation and eventual prosecution.

“It is to help them garner the required knowledge and strategies to start and finish their service with their heads high,“ he said.

According to him, the session is put together to address the challenge of why good people fall into corruption when appointed as CEOs.

“In order to avoid both internal and external pitfalls as chief executives, a gathering of this nature will avail you ample opportunity to share ideas, experiences and strategies on how to handle issues.

“It will, particularly, provide insight on how to handle institutionalised internal practices that are traps, set to make you complicit in future corrupt practices.

“ This is why it is imperative for you to know the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’, so you do not become victims or get co-opted into aiding and abetting corruption within your agencies, ” Aliyu said.

He said that the ICPC would not shy away from its enforcement mandate that allowed it to prosecute CEOs that are found guilty of engaging in corrupt practices

He, however, urged the CEOs to collaborate with the commission in curbing corruption.(NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Thu, 2024

Defence/Security

We lost one of our best – NSA eulogises Lagbaja

145 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has described the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as one of the best military officers that Nigeria has ever produced.

Ribadu said this during a condolence visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher and the Acting COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Wednesday at Defence and Army Headquarters Abuja.

He described the late army chief as an incredible man, loyal, committed, trustworthy, compatriot and a good leader.

According to him, Lagbaja loved his soldiers, worked for the Armed Forces and Nigeria and also loved the military.

“I am here to condole the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the entire members of our Armed Forces, who have suffered a great loss.

“We lost one of our best because Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was an incredible man but that is what life is all about.

“He has been called to a higher level and we will continue to pray for his family and those he left behind.

“We will continue to be grateful to God for the life he led, for the service he gave, and the commitment he did for his country.

“To our President, President Bola Tinubu, it is a very sad loss, a difficult one to feel, but we thank God for his life,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ribadu was accompanied by the National Coordinator, National Counter-terrorism Centre, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka and other top officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

He had meetings with both the CDS and the Acting COAS and signed condolence registers at both Defence and Army Headquarters. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Wed, 2024

Defence/Security

EFCC links frequent national grid collapse to corruption

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Mr Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has attributed the frequent collapse of national grid to activities of corrupt contractors.

The EFCC boss said this while receiving members of the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes during an oversight visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

Olukoyede, who expressed concern that financial crimes and corruption undermined the nation’s development, added that dubious practice was a major cause of frequent equipment failures, outages and grid collapses.

According to him, one of the problems of this country in the last 15 years to 20 years is that budget performance is always below 20 per cent.

He said that some of the electricity companies bought substandard goods to run the electricity, and this had been responsible for the frequent collapses of the national grid.

He lamented poor implementation and execution of capital projects in the country, saying that Nigeria can not achieve infrastructural or any form of growth under such conditions.

“Investigations carried out by the EFCC showed that contractors in the power sector, who were awarded projects to supply electrical equipment, often opted for substandard materials.

“As I am talking to you now, we are grappling with electricity. If you see some of the investigations we are carrying out within the power sector, you will shed tears,” he said.

He also said that the commission discovered that in the last 20 years, capital project implementation and execution in the country were not up to 20 per cent.

“If we do not do that, how do you want to have infrastructural development? How do you want to grow as a nation?

“Our mandate this year is to work with the National Assembly to see if we can meet up to 50 per cent of our execution of our capital project for the year.

“If we do 50 per cent, we will be fine as a nation. Lack of implementation of this capital budget is one of our major problems in Nigeria,” he said.

The EFCC boss called for collective efforts and partnership with all stakeholders to win the battle against corruption in the country.

He emphasised the need for effective collaboration between the lawmakers and the commission in achieving the commission’s mandate of fighting corruption.

According to him, both the committee members and the EFCC are mandated to tackle the menace of financial crimes and corruption, with the goal of advancing the country.

“The mandate before you, which is also before us, if managed effectively and efficiently, will be remembered by Nigerians in the long term.

“This is one of the major challenges undermining our development in Nigeria. Tackling financial crimes and corruption effectively is a responsibility before you as well as the EFCC.

“It is therefore appropriate for us to work together,” Olukoyede said.

Earlier, the chairman of the committee, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, lauded the achievement of the agency.

Onwusibe said that the committee was at the commission as part of its oversight functions, aimed at monitoring the performance of ministries, departments, and agencies.

He expressed the committee’s readiness to assist the EFCC through legislation and budget allocations.

He urged the commission to enhance its operational skills, ensure accountability, address challenges, and work closely with other agencies, donors, and development partners.(NAN)

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Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Wed, 2024

Defence/Security

Technology game changer in anti-corruption war- ICPC

114 total views today

By Isaac Aregbesola

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has emphasised that embracing technology was vital in combating corruption in the country.

ICPC Secretary, Mr Clifford Oparaodu, represented by Mr Demola Bakare, Acting Director of Public Enlightenment and Education, said this at the inauguration of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard on Tuesday in Abuja.

“Embracing technology can be a game-changer in our fight against corruption. We are living in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, and Nigerians youths have proven themselves adept at utilising these tools.

“We must harness the power of technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.

“Mobilising our coding skills, data analysis abilities and social media prowess, we can expose corrupt practices, track public spending and facilitate citizen participation in anti-corruption initiatives,” he said

Oparaodu highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, with 60 per cent under 30, as a crucial factor in shaping the nation’s future.

He emphasised that young people possessed the passion, energy, and creativity necessary to tackle corruption.

To achieve this, he advocated for empowering and involving youths in the fight against corruption, leveraging technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.

“We need to establish platforms, where young Nigerians from diverse background can come together, share ideas, and work collectively towards a corruption–free Nigeria.

“Civil society organisations, academic institutions and youth led initiatives should collaborate to create opportunities to become anti-corruption champions,” he said.

He said the youth of Nigeria had a pivotal role to play in the fight against corruption.

“By educating ourselves, leveraging technology, engaging in politics of development, and fostering collaboration, we can effect real change in our society.

“The establishment of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard is a testament to our commitment to integrity and accountability.

“Through this platform, you will have opportunity to educate your peers, raise awareness about the danger of corruption, and advocate for transparency in all spheres of life, especially among yourselves and in your various institutions,” he said.

He urged the students to take a wave of change and collaborate with the commission, which would provide you with the necessary tools and guidance to effectively champion the cause.

“Together, let us forge a path towards a future where integrity thrives and corruption is a relic of the past.

“I look forward to witnessing the impactful initiatives that will emerge from these vanguards and the positive changes you will bring about,” he said.

He said by implementing these strategies, Nigerian youths could drive meaningful change and create a society where integrity thrived, and corruption eradicated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that students from the School of nursing Gwagwalada, Abuja; Nasarawa Polytechnic and Nile University were presented at the event (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

isaac aregbesola
Nov, Wed, 2024

Defence/Security

Violent extremism is complex, requires adaptable solutions- UNDP

111 total views today

By Oladapo Udom

Mr Matthew Alao, the Team Lead, Governance, Peace, and Security Unit, United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, has described violent extremism as a complex, multifaceted problem that requires equally nuanced and adaptable solutions.

Alao said this at the graduation ceremony of 32 participants of Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) on Countering Violent Extremism.

The Countering Violent Extremism Course 5, 2024, which started on Oct. 26 ended on Nov. 8, at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA) Lagos.

Participants from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, Guinea Bissau, Togo and Liberia took part in the two-week rigorous training.

The team lead called for collaborated efforts from stakeholders to address the challenge, which he said was taking its toll on humanity in general.

He urged the participants to always remember that countering violent extremism was not solely about security measures or law enforcement.

“It is about addressing root causes, fostering inclusive societies, and offering hope where despair once reigned.

“Your role extends beyond tactical responses; you are now architects of resilient communities and advocates for social justice.

“You will face challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt. However, be hopeful; be optimistic because our struggle is not the struggle of a day or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime,” he said.

Alao expressed confidence in the knowledge and skills the participants had acquired, saying that they were not just academic achievements, but the building blocks of resilient communities and sustainable peace.

“Now, you stand ready to return to your respective countries, organisations, and communities as agents of positive change,” the UNDP representative said.

Alao appreciated the Government of Japan, MLAILPKC, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, and the UNDP for their support which had been instrumental in shaping future leaders.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Farouk Mijinyawa, in his remarks stressed the need for partnership and collective efforts to eradicate violent extremism in the country.

Mijinyawa commended the seamless collaboration between MLAILPKC and the Government of Japan, through the UNDP, which resulted to the approval and conduct of the course.

According to him, the strategic partnership serves as beacon of international cooperation which needs to be sustained.

He quoted former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, as saying that the greatest weapon against extremism is collective action.

“This points to the fact that it is only through partnership and collective efforts that we can eradicate the menace of violent extremism in the world,” he said.

The GOC said that violent extremism had continued to threaten world peace and humanity in general, adding that all stakeholders must unite to counter it by addressing the root causes.

“These include support to education, community engagements and creating economic opportunities.

“The training will help to enhance capacity and equip potential peacekeepers with the requisite expertise to handle threats posed by violent extremism.

“It will also enable them to effectively perform their roles in a multidimensional peacekeeping mission,” he said

One of the participants of the training, Lt.-Col. Thomas Nimele, from the Armed Forces of Liberia, said that the course broadened his knowledge regarding peacekeeping in violent extreme situations.

“The training also gave me insight into the drivers that cause violent extremism and how to use non kinetic measures to win the war.

“Countering violent extremism is a holistic approach involving both government institutions and societal institutions, using non kinetic approach to defeat the ideology of violent extremism,” Nimele said.

Also, Maj. Felix Adongo, from the Ghana Army, said that his take home would be to employ the use of more non kinetic measures in countering the extremist agenda rather than always resulting to force.

“It is important that we tackle this menace from this angle by identifying and getting to the root causes of the extremists ideas and agenda,” Adongo said(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)