NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Group seeks enhanced youth involvement in counter-insurgency initiative in NE

Group seeks enhanced youth involvement in counter-insurgency initiative in NE

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Kalthum Foundation for Peace (KFP) and partners, have evolved strategies to foster enhanced youth involvement in counter-insurgency and counter violent extremism efforts in the North East.

The foundation is leading conversations in collaboration with Network of Civil Society Organisations Borno (NECSOB) and Borno Youth Parliament (BYP).

This is contained in a statement by the Founder/CEO of KFP, Amb. Ummu-Kalthum Rabiu, Executive Director, NECSOB, Bulama Abiso and Speaker of BYP, Abubakar Usman, on Wednesday in Abuja.

They said the conversation was designed to address the pressing issues surrounding violent extremism, promote effective conflict resolution strategies, and foster a culture of peace within their communities.

According to the statement, the one-day gathering would be dedicated to engaging a diverse array of stakeholders, with a particular focus on students and young individuals.

“This critical event is scheduled to take place on June 28 at the University of Maiduguri to provide an inspiring setting for open dialogue and collaboration among participants,” they said.

The group said the gathering of political, traditional and military leaders at the event would further emphasise their collective efforts to combat the challenges posed by violent extremism.

They added that the participation would enrich the discussions and provide a comprehensive perspective on those critical issues.

According to them, the one-day summit is set to attract over 1,000 students from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States.

“The event aims to enhance the efforts of these students in the areas of community engagement and peacebuilding, particularly through the framework of the COIN (Counter-Insurgency) strategy.

“This gathering presents an opportunity for participants to discuss and develop collaborative approaches to address regional challenges, fostering a spirit of cooperation and understanding among the youth.

“The anticipated attendance underscores the importance of youth involvement in peace initiatives and highlights the potential for constructive dialogue in promoting stability in the region.

“This event promises to be a pivotal moment for youth engagement and collaborative action toward building a safer, more peaceful future for all,” they added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Nigeria to host PPP summit for infrastructure transformation

Nigeria to host PPP summit for infrastructure transformation

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) has announced that the Nigeria Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Summit 2025 will take place from June 17 to 18, in Abuja.

Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, Director-General of ICRC, disclosed this in a statement issued by Ifeanyi Nwoko, Acting Head of Media and Publicity, ICRC, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ewalefoh said the summit would convene top government officials, global investors, and key private sector leaders for high-level discussions on transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure through PPPs.

The summit’s theme is “Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential: The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He said the two-day event aimed to redefine how Nigeria mobilised private capital and expertise to address its vast infrastructure needs.

Ewalefoh emphasised the summit’s focus on practical outcomes, saying it was not just about speeches but about dismantling bottlenecks and unlocking capital to create visible impact.

He said the impact would be seen across various sectors, including power lines, railways, hospitals, broadband, transportation, agriculture, education, and tourism.

“We believe PPPs are the bridge between vision and reality,” he said.

He added that under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the Renewed Hope Agenda was a national mission, with Nigeria actively building, financing, and delivering change in real time.

“The summit will highlight Nigeria’s investment potential in infrastructure through a streamlined PPP process designed to attract real value and shift from policy discussions to tangible projects.

“The opening ceremony will be held at the State House Banquet Hall, featuring a keynote address by President Tinubu and a special address by Dr Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank.

“Goodwill messages will also be delivered by the Vice-President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Regional Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and other distinguished guests.

“Day two will include panel sessions and technical discussions at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, focusing on major infrastructure corridors in transport, energy, housing, and technology.

“The summit will showcase successful Nigerian PPP projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port.

“It will also feature international case studies like the Wind Power Project in Cape Verde and the Sene-Gambia Bridge in Senegal, offering replicable models for Nigeria’s infrastructure expansion.”

Ewalefoh noted that government officials and private investors would collaborate in real-time to co-create solutions, moving beyond traditional talk-shop formats.

“The sessions will feature global investment players from Afreximbank, Africa50, PAC Capital, Norrenberger, Financial Derivatives, AFC, and KPMG, providing exclusive networking and opportunities to close viable transactions.

“This is a bold step in actualising the Renewed Hope Agenda and establishing PPPs as the foundation of national progress,” Ewalefoh said.(NAN)(www.nannewsng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Prevention key to eliminating sickle cell disease — UniAbuja Acting VC

Prevention key to eliminating sickle cell disease — UniAbuja Acting VC

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By Uche Bibilari

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, formerly UniAbuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, says prevention remains the key to eliminating Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Nigeria.

Lar, represented by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Titus Ibekwe, said on Tuesday in Abuja during a public lecture titled, “The Evolving Therapeutic Landscape in Sickle Cell Disease.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by the Yakubu Gowon University Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA) in collaboration with the College of Health Sciences (CHS).

According to Lar, prevention is crucial, particularly by paying close attention to the selection of life partners to avoid giving birth to children with SCD.

Lar added that seriously considering partner compatibility could reduce the disease to only carriers, discouraging marriages between incompatible partners.

“If we maintain this precautionary measure over time, we will be able to eliminate SCD or reduce it to a minimum worldwide,” she said.

She emphasised that common treatment for those living with the disease focused on adequate care to ensure a better quality of life.

Lar also highlighted new advances in treating SCD, including bone marrow transplants and gene therapy.

According to her, gene therapy aims to modify the gene so it functions like a normal gene rather than the sickle cell gene.

“This is where the future of SCD treatment lies,” Lar stated.

Guest Lecturer Maureen Achebe, Clinical Director of Hematology at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) and Associate Professor of Medicine and Global Equity at Harvard Medical School (HMS), said Nigeria carried the highest burden of SCD worldwide.

“Sub-Saharan Africa bears the burden of SCD. Every year, 300,000 babies are born with SCD in the region, with 150,000 in Nigeria alone,” she said.

Achebe warned that Nigeria’s fertility rate predicted the number would rise and highlighted a high under-five mortality rate of 50–80 per cent, with many children dying before their fifth birthday.

She stressed the importance of detecting SCD in newborns before symptoms appeared, advocating for newborn screening programmes.

“These babies look normal at birth. Newborn screening helps identify those with SCD early so they can receive care and therapy to live normal lives,” she explained.

Achebe noted that preventive measures such as vaccination, folic acid supplements, and protection against infections like pneumonia and malaria could significantly improve health outcomes.

She added that studies showed hydroxyurea given daily improved longevity for patients with SCD.

“Efforts are underway to reduce SCD mortality in children under five from significant levels to over 95 per cent survival into adulthood.”

Achebe acknowledged newer treatments such as bone marrow transplants and gene therapies were promising but expensive.

She advised that people should know their genotype and discuss this openly when choosing life partners.

Achebe also called for economic support from the Ministries of Health and Finance and stressed that newborn screening should be prioritised.

Dispelling myths, she affirmed that SCD was a scientifically inherited disease, not caused by witchcraft.

Similarly, Prof. Obiageli Nnodu, Director of CESRTA and Co-Chair of the 5th Global Congress on SCD, said the lecture aimed to share valuable information about SCD treatment with the public.

Nnodu explained that CESRTA, established in 2015, conducts clinical and translational research to bridge gaps in SCD knowledge, treatment, and care.

“We strive to find safer, more affordable remedies for SCD and have made significant progress over the last decade.

“CESRTA provides opportunities for skills development to improve care not only in Nigeria but globally.

“The centre has strong collaborations with national and international institutions,” she said.

She said that following the recent 5th Global Congress on SCD, the UniAbuja Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA) was upgraded to the National Centre of Excellence for SCD Research and Training.

Lar added that the upgrade was announced by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Fedpoly Oko Alumni leadership distances self from suit against rector

Fedpoly Oko Alumni leadership distances self from suit against rector

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By Emmanuel Afonne

The leadership of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Alumni Association, has distanced itself from a suit filed against the institution’s rector, Dr Chioma Awuzie.

President of the association, Chief Henry Nnebe, said on Sunday in Abuja that it was necessary to clear the air following the deliberate peddling of falsehood and misinformation against the association.

Nnebe who spoke through the association’s lawyer Mr Nnaemeka Ejiofor, said that every legal step would be taken to correct the misinformation.

“This Public Notice/Press Release has therefore become imperative in order to set the records straight and assuage the concerns of our beloved alma mater Federal Polytechnic Oko, which is under a new Rebirth.”

NAN reports that an alumnus of the institution, Blessing Okeke, instituted a case at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in the Awka Judiciary Division against the rector, the Governing Council of the Polytechnic, and the registrar.

Also joined in the suit are the Minister of Education, and Henry Nnebe, the National President, Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association.

Nnebe, through the association’s lawyer, however, said that they cannot be dragging the management to court when it is committed to the growth and development of the Polytechnic.

“The general Public are hereby put on notice and we state categorically that Blessing Okeke who deposed to being a 2003 graduate of the Federal Polytechnic Oko and as such an Alumnus of the polytechnic, stated clearly in the affidavit that she is the Plaintiff in the suit.

“In accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association Article 2, section 6, Okeke as alumnus is entitled to rights, benefits and privileges of members, particularly freedom of expression, fair hearing as guaranteed by the Constitution.

“In accordance with Article 5, Section 1 of the constitution, Okeke or any alumnus cannot represent our client without express approval and this means that she does not represent the Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association.

“She also does not have the mandate or approval of the Alumni National President or National Executive Council to represent the association in her present suit, in line with Article 5, Section 1 of our constitution.

“The Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association is not mentioned in the affidavit by Okeke as being part of the plaintiff and does not associate itself with the suit.

“That the plaintiff named Henry Nnebe (National President, Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association) as the 7th Defendant in the suit,” the lawyer said.

According to the lawyer, the National Executive Council has mandated the branch of the Alumni Association to which Okeke belongs to evoke forthwith the Alumni’s Constitution, Article 14 Section 1.

“The Alumni constitution says that each branch of the association shall have power to exercise disciplinary control over its members and may caution, suspend, impose a fine, or impose any other disciplinary sanction or punishment on any member whose conduct offends or is against this constitution.

“It must be noted that our client will not hesitate to seek appropriate redress against those who without cause seem intent on tarnishing, maligning and slandering the association that has contributed immensely to the growth of Polytechnic for over 40 years.

“Our client’s National Executive Council seizes this opportunity to call on our esteemed ‘Oko Polymath’ to remain resolute and dedicated to the vision of the institution.

“While our client is committed to the progress of all organs of their alma mater, it will not hesitate to make sure that things are done properly and constitutionally always.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Flushing out fifth columnists in fight against terrorism

Flushing out fifth columnists in fight against terrorism

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The fight against terrorism in Nigeria is not just about battling external enemies; it also entails confronting the internal threats that enable terrorist groups to thrive.

Fifth columnists, who may be sympathisers, collaborators, or even moles within security agencies, complicate the security landscape.

Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts are constantly evolving, but one aspect remains constant– the presence of fifth columnists–who seek to undermine these efforts.

From corrupt officials to terrorist sympathisers, these individuals or groups pose a significant threat to national security.

There are categories of individuals who have motives, intents and interest to undermine the efforts of the government, military and other security agencies in tackling the menace of terrorism.

Over the years, terrorism has taken a toll on livelihoods and national well-being, especially in the North Eastern States of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe.

Also, in the North West and North Central, there are elements destabilising the socio-economic and social well-being of the affected states like Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Plateau, among others.

With particular focus on the North East, the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) has sustained efforts towards tackling the challenge over the years.

These efforts, have at some points, suffered some setbacks due to the unwholesome roles played by these “fifth columnists” who have submitted their loyalty to the common enemies they were meant to confront.

The Theatre Commander of OPHK, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, recently disclosed the identities of the fifth columnists from within who have sabotaged and compromised the operational successes of the theatre.

While speaking during a media tour facilitated by the Directorate of Defence Media Operations, Abubakar lamented the activities of fifth columnists which undermine the overall success of their operations.

According to him, a few soldiers motivated by greed are involved in ammunition racketeering, deliberately diverting arms from the military stockpiles and supply chains to terrorists.

He said that such actions eroded battlefield morale, reduced troops’ effectiveness, and strengthened enemy resistance.

Abubakar cited a most recent incident which occurred on Feb. 24, when a soldier of 144 Battalion, was arrested with 30 rounds of 7.62mm specials at Tashin-Karo Kano by a military police K-19 on route search operations.

“Consequently, the theatre has continued to warn troops at all levels on the severe repercussions and sanctions of ammunition racketeering.

“Those found culpable have been dismissed and handed over to the police to serve as deterrent.”

The theatre commander said that troops of OPHK had apprehended 18 serving soldiers and 15 policemen selling arms to non-state actors since August 2024 through the Operation Snowball which was unveiled in August 2024 to counter-ammunition racketeering within the theater and beyond.

According to him, the operation is being conducted across 11 states with suspects arrested in Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Ebonyi, Enugu, Lagos, Plateau, Kaduna, Rivers, Taraba and the Federal Capital Territory.

“So far, a total of 18 soldiers, 15 mobile policemen, and 8 civilians, including a traditional ruler have been arrested.

“Preliminary findings from ongoing investigation reveal community pressure on serving security personnel to supply arms and ammunition for communal conflicts as driving factors.

“It is also worth mentioning that the lucrative nature of trading in ammunition is also a driving factor for its persistence.”

The theatre commander disclosed that one Sgt. Ameh Raphael, an Armourer of 7 Division Garrison, who has been in the trade since 2018, and Sgt. Seidi Adamu of 3rd Division Ordnance Services, who has also been in the trade since 2022, had over N45 million and N34 million respectively in their accounts.

He added that investigation also revealed that a whooping sum of N135 million was discovered to have passed through the account of a policeman, Insp. Enoch Ngwa who was arrested for arms racketeering.

“To this end, a more stringent punishment is necessary to act as deterrent,’’ he said.

Speaking further, Abubakar said the troops also recorded significant progress in the fight against terrorists’ logistics suppliers and collaborators with more than 186 terrorist logistics suppliers, spies and collaborators being apprehended across the theatre of operation from January to the date.

He said to counter the threat, the Joint Intelligence Mission Center, military intelligence base, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency had intensified efforts to disrupt these networks.

According to him, lack of tracking device has continued to mitigate the arrest of logistic suppliers.

He also raised concerns about the observed increase in cases of collusion by some non-governmental organisations who convey additives and food items to terrorist locations under the guise of humanitarian assistance.

More so, an expert in Military Studies, Dr Sani Abubakar, said he had consistently expressed belief that there were individuals undermining the government’s counter-insurgency (COIN) operations, both among the local population and within the military ranks.

He said that the level of intelligence that the terrorists possessed, which often gave them a significant edge during their attacks, clearly pointed to the existence of traitors and saboteurs who assist them.

According to him, in the realm of terrorism and insurgency studies, the local community often serves the insurgents and terrorists much like water does for fish.

“Some of these saboteurs act out of a desire for revenge or ideological convictions, but the majority are motivated by financial gain.

“Indeed, many of those who compromise military operations, leak sensitive information, and provide intelligence on our bases do so primarily for monetary rewards.

“What is needed is for the military high command to invest me on intelligence gathering, and collaborate more with the DSS and the police; they must also collaborate with the governments of Chad and Niger Republics in this regards,’’ he said.

Weighing in, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector Commander, Operation Fansan Yamma, said the military high command was proposing life imprisonment or death penalty for personnel selling or leasing arms or ammunition to bandits and terrorists.

Ajose said that any soldier convicted of collaborating with bandits or terrorists should face severe penalties.

He said the military had taken adequate measures to track and block the activities of saboteurs who are collaborating with the enemies.

“At present, the military is proposing life imprisonment or death penalty for personnel selling or leasing arms or ammunition to bandits and terrorists,” he said.

Moreover, the Secretary -General, International Institute for Professional Security (IIPS), Mr Abdullahi Jabi, said the revelation by the military about the existence of saboteurs from within should be a source of worry to the Federal Government to be seen to be decisive.

Jabi said the entire military architecture needed to be reviewed to be more of professional military officers that they used to be.

He said that the military personnel must have confidence that the government was committed to their welfare and well-being of their family should anything happens to them while fighting for the nation.

“To achieve that, they have to review their salaries, allowances, and their motivational incentives like housing; government should build houses for all the military personnel free of charge.

“If they die in the battlefield, they must pay their money in less than one month to their families and relations and take responsibility for the children left behind in terms of schooling and job opportunity.

“This must be done clearly for them to know that the patriotism of the nation is in their hearts, and they are ready to die for what they are working for.’’

Jabi however supported the calls that any personnel found culpable in collaborating with terrorists should be summarily executed to serve as deterrent to others.

“If they are caught collaborating with the enemies, they should be summarily executed on the field for others to know that the consequence will be very severe,” he said.

Stakeholders say the presence of fifth columnists in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism highlights the complexity of the security challenge and the need for a multifaceted approach.

They believe that enhanced vetting processes for individuals working in sensitive positions within government and security agencies, especially the military will be an effective strategy to deal with internal sabotage.(NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

WED: Ugbor lauds passage of endangered species conservation bill

WED: Ugbor lauds passage of endangered species conservation bill

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By Abigael Joshua

Rep. Terseer Ugbor, the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Environment, has commended the passage of Nigeria Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, describing it as a landmark legislation.

Ugbor spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja in commemoration of the World Environment Day (WED).

WED is celebrated annually on June 5.

The lawmaker expressed satisfaction over the successful passage of the bill which had completed its third and final reading in the House of Representatives.

He said the bill would be sent to the Senate for concurrence.

“This landmark legislation will enhance Nigeria’s capacity to address wildlife trafficking, empower judges to expedite the adjudication of wildlife crime cases, and impose more stringent penalties on offenders.”

Ugbor, a member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue, who is also the sponsor of the bill, said that once assented to by the President, the legislation would address the deficiencies in tracking illicit financial flows.

He added that the bill would also enforce more stringent laws along Nigeria’s borders, bolstering efforts to combat illegal activities.

According to him, the bill is pivotal in combating the illegal wildlife trade and safeguarding Nigeria’s iconic wildlife populations.

“The bill conveys an unambiguously clear message that Nigeria will not tolerate the exploitation of its borders for the trafficking of illegal wildlife products, such as pangolin scales and elephant tusks.

“By modernising our laws, we aspire to ensure that future generations can continue to reap the ecological and economic benefits of our rich biodiversity.”

Ugbor said that coordinated security operations in the open border regions through southeastern area to the Middle Belt, a major nexus for transit, would mitigate the influx of unidentified and illegal immigrants, to curb insecurity in the country.

“The bill will be presented to the Senate for concurrence and forwarded to the President for final endorsement,’’ he said.

He said that the bill to repeal and reenact the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act to include the social and health impacts of both public and private sector projects was also underway in the House of Representatives.

Ugbor assured of the timely passage of the bill.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Digital farmers’ registry ‘ll enhance food systems transformation – Stakeholders

Digital farmers’ registry ‘ll enhance food systems transformation – Stakeholders

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By Felicia Imohimi

Stakeholders in the Agriculture sector have identified a unified National Digital Farmers Registry (NDFR) as pivotal to scaling up innovative technology for enhanced food system.

The stakeholders include Federal Government, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Heifer International and other partners.

Dr Lekan Tobe, Country Director, Heifer International, Nigeria, on Wednesday in Abuja, said a sustainable digital farmers registry was pivotal for an efficient and effective food system.

According to him, this will avoid duplication of intervention by different actors.

Tobe, in his presentation tagged, “Towards a NDFR in Nigeria: How Might We Work Together?” said that it would also promote harmony and synergy in the delivery of digitally enabled services.

“It will ensure data driven decision making system to support targeted advisory, access to services, financial support information, integrated solutions considering the ecosystem and the available solutions among others,” he said.

He identified the context of the registry project as supporting improved coordination among food system actors for better deployment of resources including infrastructure.

The country director emphasised that equitable distribution of agricultural solutions would be achieved through a well-functioning NDFR among others.

Similarly, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, described NDFR as the foundation for evidence-based planning, targeted intervention, policy making and accountability in the agricultural ecosystem.

According to him, NDFR allows us to identify and reach the real farmers with the right support, eliminate inefficiency, and ensure that resources are aligned with national priorities.

“With a credible farmers’ registry, we can ensure that inputs reaching the intended beneficiaries that support programmes, are tailored to the actual needs of our farmers and that government interventions yield the desired impact.

“Moreover, it will empower financial institutions, agribusinesses, insurers, and other stakeholders to engage with our farmers with clarity, confidence, and precision,” he said.

In the same vein, IFAD Country Director, Dede Ekoue said the dialogue was geared toward kick starting the process of NDFR that would be domiciled at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

Ekoue, who identified partnership as key to ensuring effective implementation of NDFR, solicited stakeholders’ partnership with the government to put in place a strong registry.

She noted that data was the foundation for everything; from policy to investment as it provide farmers with the best solution, adding that the registry would be a game changer.

According to her, NDFR initiative will be implemented by IFAD digital innovation action plan in collaboration with other stakeholders.

“The initiative will include comprehensive profiles of farmers, covering their farms, crop types, locations, financial status, soil types and production scales.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Deborah Coker

British-Nigerian actor sets sights on leading roles in Nollywood

British-Nigerian actor sets sights on leading roles in Nollywood

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By Joy Obanya

British-Nigerian actor Junior Salokun, says he is set to star in Nollywood, with ambitions to take on lead roles that break boundaries and amplify African stories on a global stage.

Salokun told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja, that his aspiration was to bridge cultural divides through film.

“With a deep love for storytelling, I’m drawn to roles that explore the complexities of the human experience.

“I want to be part of projects that resonate globally, reflect Nigerian culture authentically, and celebrate our rich heritage,” he said.

Salokun expressed enthusiasm about Nollywood’s rising global profile and said he’s eager to contribute to its momentum.

“Today, Nollywood has gained international recognition and I am excited to be a part of the growing industry.

“My acting career already brought me to appearing on NETFLIX, Blue Story, BBC/Paramount and other various stage productions, and short films.

“I am now focused on expanding my reach into Nollywood, where I hope to collaborate with industry professionals and showcase my talent.

“I also aim at dilating my reach into Nollywood, where I look forward to collaborate with professionals in the creative industry,” Salokun said.

He emphasised that his goal is to contribute to films that not only entertain but also inspire and educate audiences.

NAN reports that the actor who was born and raised in London, has already made his mark in film and television with roles in Blue Story (2019), My Brudda (2023), and the upcoming Netflix sci-fi series Supacell (2024). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

APC chieftain lauds Tinubu’s achievements, hails Interior Minister

APC chieftain lauds Tinubu’s achievements, hails Interior Minister

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By Precious Akutammadu

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers, Mr Darlington Nwauju, has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for the innovations introduced in the ministry.

Nwauju told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt on Wednesday that his commendation was necessitated by the turnaround in the ministry which had become a testimony of how Nigerian youths can contribute to the nation’s development.

“In less than two years, there is verifiable evidence of the impact of reforms he introduced to that Ministry, which many Nigerians can attest to.

“It is not possible that you walk into an ATM pay point, withdraw your own money and start clapping for being paid,” Nwauju said.

According to him, it is right to critically appraise a sector that was asphyxiated before today and confirm that it’s been oxygenated, now serving the public good and justifying tax payers money put into that ministry.

“Talking about taxpayers money, the Ministry of Interior has overshot the targets set for it in the last two budget cycles in terms of revenue generation.

“These are clear indicators that the weeks and months ahead may witness improved performances with the cooperation of the National Assembly committees with oversight powers on that ministry.

“There is no way the return on investment of taxpayers money into that ministry will not yield dividends given the management tact and leadership qualities of the Minister.

“On the balance of probabilities, public office holders can actually be reasonable, responsible and responsive if we identify and protect them.

“This is to ensure they are not intimidated out of the public space by those who are used to poor service delivery.

“Youths in Nigeria make up over sixty per cent of the voting demographics and we must not allow those who believe that we must stay perpetually at the backwaters of Nigerian politics, to continue to play on our intelligence,” he said.

Nwauju said that Tunji-Ojo facilitated the release of over 4000 inmates from different correctional facilities, where they were serving prison terms that were avoidable.

“The inmates were released after the ministry mobilised corporate bodies to raise N585 million for the payment of their fines, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibilities, (CSR)

“Over one hundred thousand personnel of the paramilitary services under the Interior Ministry have been promoted so far in two promotion exercises and passport applications and collections are now easy.

“The Minister cleared over two hundred thousand passport backlog; established enhanced e-passport facilities in Europe and inaugurated contactless biometric passports.

“He ensured command and control centre for the NIS, deployment of e-gates at our international airports, remodelled fire service academy and so on.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Emmanuel Afonne

Group accuses Amnesty Intl. of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation

Group accuses Amnesty Intl. of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigeria Safety and Peace Solidarity Movement (NSPSM), a civil society organisation, has accused Amnesty International (AI) of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation in its recent report.

Mr Andrew Kato, General Secretary of NSPSM, stated this while briefing newsmen on the report on Wednesday in Abuja.

Kato said that the right information must be disseminated by any organisation or individual for peace and stability to be achieved in the country.

He faulted AIl over its claims that the Nigerian authorities had failed to protect lives and property from daily attacks by armed groups and bandits.

“NSPSM is alarmed at this report which does not reflect what is on ground at the moment.

“We are not here to speak for the military, but as Nigerians with a stake in what is happening, we make bold to say the Amnesty International report is not a true representation of efforts by the Nigerian government, especially the Armed Forces.

“One thing we find intriguing about Amnesty International in the Nigeria situation is that the organisation is blowing hot and cold.

“They will tell you that at least 10,217 people have been killed in attacks by gunmen in Benue, Edo, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Sokoto and Zamfara states.

“They said Benue state accounts for the highest death toll of 6,896, followed by Plateau state, where 2,630 people were killed.

“Later they will say arrested terrorists and gunmen are being denied their human rights.

“Amnesty International will say they are speaking for affected Nigerians and later come to speak for perpetrators of these heinous crimes against humanity,’’ he said.

Kato urged all discerning Nigerians to ask who Amnesty International is really working for and what they really want from Nigeria.

He said the group had observed overtime that Amnesty International had never at any time strongly condemned the activities of those perpetrating those crimes against innocent Nigerians.

“What is the essence of the report? Is it to raise an alarm? Cause Nigerians to begin to attack each other? Dampen troops’ morale? Or make the government and the military look incapable?

“We are confused because the AI report did not exhaustively look at what President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the Armed forces are doing to tackle the security challenges.

“We are not saying there are no issues on ground, what we are saying is that what is being done outweighs the alarm being raised by Amnesty International.

“It is unfortunate Amnesty International went to the extent of getting a one-sided interview from a resident of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara state to portray the Nigerian authorities as failures,’’ he added.

Kato said the organisation should have gone to areas where the military had been decimating the terrorists to get a balanced report if they are not hiding or desperate to achieve something in Nigeria.

He said the action of the organisation has reinforced the Nigerian authorities’ repeated accusation that some outside forces are having ulterior motives in what is happening in Nigeria.

“Globally, security challenges are intensifying as competition for political and economic benefits intensifies. However, AI is deliberately blowing the situation in our country out of proportion.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria under the present leadership from our investigation are not folding their hands and allowing citizens to be killed.

“Much is being done to tackle the challenges. Some of the efforts of the military are not being disclosed for some reasons.

“We are using this medium to strongly condemn and reject in totality the one sided report.

“We urge Nigerians to support our troops, they are working for us. Let us collectively reject any group working to cause disharmony and deepen the security challenges in our country,’’ he stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Yakubu Uba

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