By Sumaila Ogbaje

The new Chairman, Military Pensions Board (MPB), AVM Paul Irumheson, on Monday took over command of the board with a promise to improve on the recent progress made by his predecessor.

Irumheson took over from Rear Adm. Sabiru Lawal, whose tenure came to an end recently.

He also promised to operate an opened-door policy, urging retirees and prisoners to always feel free to come forward with whatever concerns they might have.

He pledged to consolidate on the successes made by the board and sustain timely payment of pension and gratuity of retirees.

He commended his predecessor on his achievements as the chairman of the board in the area of infrastructure and welfare of personnel, and have assurance of sustaining and improving on them.

Earlier, the outgone chairman, Rear Adm. Lawal, said the board had improved significantly from what it was when he assumed office as the Chairman of the MPB on Sept. 18, 2020.

He said the retirees/pensioners could attest to the promptness with which their gratuities and pensions were paid during his tenure, adding that pleasant working environment and policies had also been put in place for the improved wellbeing of staff.

He urged the staff to see their duty to retirees and pensioners as a call to serve, as someday they too would retire and become pensioners.

“In view of the fact that all of us will at one time or the other find ourselves on the payroll of the MPB-whether you are an officer or a soldier, please don’t do to the retirees and their NOKs, what you won’t want to be done to you,” he said.

Lawal urged his successor to key in to the already established processes for the payment of gratuities, death benefits and monthly pensions that had worked so efficiently for the board.

He, however, expressed regret that his intention of conducting an electronic verification exercise of retirees could not be actualised as a result of the challenges faced by the IT Company contracted to execute and midwife the project.

He added that the firm had gone back to the drawing board with assurances that it would be ready for the exercise in soon, and not later than the first quarter of 2024.

Lawal, therefore, implored the new chairman to follow up and ensure the exercise was conducted as planned. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Mohammed Tijjani

The Police Command in Kaduna State has confirmed that two persons were killed and three others kidnapped by suspected bandits on Sept. 15, in a community in the state.

The command’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr Mansir Hassan, confirmed the development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Kaduna.

Hassan said that the incident took place in Dogon Noma-Unguwan Gamu community in the Kajuru Local Government Area of the state.

He said that the bandits invaded the community at about 6:30 a.m., killing and abducting the victims.

The spokesman assured that the bandits would eventually be arrested to face the wrath of the law. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Silas Nwoha

By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says the present corps administration will ensure complete realisation of the five per cent reduction in road traffic deaths and injuries across the country.

The Corps Marshal, FRSC, Mr Dauda Biu, said this at the 2023 Special Marshals Sectoral workshop on Saturday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the workshop is “Volunteerism In Road Safety Management: Limits and Possibilities.”

Biu, who was represented by Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM), Mr Shehu Zaki, said that five per cent reduction in road traffic deaths was achievable.

He said that it could be achieved by improving capacity for data collection, analysis and management to enhance road safety policy formulation.

The FRSC boss said that there was a need to always review the Corps activities and analyse the impacts of these activities in the reduction of crashes on Nigerian Roads.

According to him, road traffic crashes are not accidents, but are as a result of the actions or inactions of human beings.

“It is therefore preventable. Road Safety advocacy is not for the FRSC alone rather, it is a shared responsibility involving us all.

“If we resolve today to play our roles in this task, Nigeria will be saving her precious human capital; and the time for action is now,” he said.

Biu said that the Corps in a bid to boost its efforts in achieving its statutory mandate, established a volunteer arm known as Special Marshals.

These, he said, are men and women of proven integrity with legitimate and verifiable sources of livelihood in the society, who had interest to serve humanity without any remuneration attached.

He noted that volunteerism was about having a selfless, nationalistic and contributory mind-set as it had no economic undertone.

The corps marshal added that Special Marshals should not be perceived as persons who are only volunteering for pecuniary interest.

“People should remember that the attributes of a volunteer are delivery of services that must benefit others, and all services should be done without expectation of a reward.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Therefore, I congratulate you all on the work you do to reduce crashes on our roads.

” Together, we will ensure that the FRSC 2023 Corporate Strategic Goal in enhancing road safety partnership for innovative intervention
and accomplishing five per cent reduction in road traffic crashes and injuries is achieved,” Biu said.

Speaking, Dr Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader, Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), FCT, called on the motoring public to avoid speeding to save lives and property.

Suberu, who is also the National Coordinator, Road Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Mayors, said that the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) had been collaborating and giving support to the FRSC.

He assured that the VIO would continually synergise with the necessary sister agencies to ensure that the roads are safe for all.

“We have been collaborating and giving support in all areas. We have worked together in synergy to ensure the roads are free.

“I tell drivers and motorists that it is better to be late than to be the late(dead).

“Crashes must occur naturally, But you need to slow down and obey traffic rules where and when necessary,” he said.

The high points of the event were the cutting of the cake, decoration of honorary special marshals, presentation of certificates of recognition and awards among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Christiana Fadare

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Federal Capital Territory Administration, has called for public partnership in transportation and road safety management to reduce the rate of accidents on Nigerian roads.

Dr Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader, DRTS, stated this in Abuja on Saturday, during the 2023 Special Marshals Sectoral Workshop, organised by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), FCT Sector Command Special Marshal.

Suberu, who is also the National Coordinator, Road Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Mayors, said that the public partnership would significantly reduce the spate of avoidable accidents on highways.

He noted that several activities aimed at preventing the causes of accidents and reducing its severity have been implemented by government agencies such as the DRTS and the FRSC.

He added that public support was required in the formulation and implementation of life-saving policies to reduce the rate of accidents to the barest minimum.

According to him, the growth and development of every city is largely determined by the positive attitude of its residents.

He stressed the need for collective efforts and stakeholders’ support for effective traffic management through collaboration with relevant government agencies.

“This will promote safety standards by educating road users on protecting traffic environments and advocating for proper vehicle maintenance amongst others.

“There is also the need to encourage esteemed and distinguished individuals in the society and the public to volunteer as Road Safety Ambassadors.

“The ambassadors will help to decongest and control traffic, as well as maintaining traffic law and order within and around their environment, “he said.

Suberu said that workshop was timely, adding that the discussions and stakeholders’ commitment would attract more volunteers into the road safety management for safer roads.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Occasion, Mr Nathan Egereonu, said that collective effort was needed to achieve a crash-free society.

Egereonu, who is the Head, Contract Administration, Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas, called on individuals to support ongoing efforts towards reducing the rate of accidents on Nigerian roads to the barest minimum.

On his part, Mr Shehu Mohammed, FRSC Zonal Commanding Officer in charge of FCT and Niger, commended the efforts and contributions of the special marshals in improving road traffic management across the country.

Describing their contributions as “unquantifiable”, Mohammed assured the volunteers that their efforts in ensuring sanity on the roads would be rewarded.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the workshop is “Volunteerism in Road Safety Management: Limits and Possibilities”.

Highlights of the event were the cutting of cake, decoration of honorary special marshals, presentation of certificates of recognition and awards to outstanding marshals among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Philip Yatai

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged service chiefs and commanders of military operations to promote intelligence sharing and collaboration within and across joint task forces.

Musa made the call at the opening of the Joint Task Force Commanders Conference organised by the Defence Headquarters, on Friday in Abuja.

He said the conference, with the theme, “Rejigging Defence Headquarters led operations”, underscored the vital importance of collaboration and synergy among the various branches of the nation’s armed forces.

The CDS said it had become imperative for the military to adapt its strategies and tactics to effectively counter emerging threats in a time where the security landscape was constantly evolving.

According to him, by fostering a spirit of synergy, “we can capitalise on our collective strengths and capabilities to safeguard our nation.

“We face a multitude of threats, ranging from insurgency, terrorism, and cybercrime to transnational organised crime, separatist movements, and inter-communal conflicts.

“Each of these challenges demands a comprehensive and multifaceted response, one that encompasses not only military action but also political, economic, and social dimensions.

“To effectively address these threats, we must emphasise the importance of intelligence sharing and collaboration both within and across our joint task forces.

“The exchange of timely and accurate information is the lifeblood of successful operations.

“By breaking down silos and fostering a culture of information sharing, we can enhance situational awareness, improve decision-making processes, and promote seamless coordination among our forces”.

Musa said the military must recognise the significance of capacity building and training in maintaining operational readiness.

He also urged the commanders to equip their troops with necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to carry out their duties effectively.

According to him, continuous professional development, realistic and rigorous training exercises, and the cultivation of a learning culture are essential ingredients for success in this ever-evolving security landscape.

He also urged them to always engage with the communities where they served, adding that the success of operations depended not only on military prowess but also on the trust and support of the local populace.

The CDS urged them to strive to build strong relationships with the communities in which they operated by listening to their concerns, addressing their grievances and providing them with the security and stability they deserved.

“By doing so, we can effectively isolate the adversaries and win the hearts and minds of the people.

“Our nation looks up to us to ensure their safety, security, and wellbeing.

“Let us be guided by the principles of professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights as we discharge our duties.

“Let us be vigilant, resourceful, and adaptive in the face of evolving threats. And let us never lose sight of the fact that our ultimate goal is a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria,” he added.

The Chief of Defence Training and Operations, Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onumajuru, said there was need for increased strategic guidance, operational review and evaluation towards addressing prevailing national security challenges.

Onumajuru said the purpose of the conference was to provide an opportunity for detailed briefing to the CDS by the JTF commanders.

He said the conference would also provide a comprehensive evaluation of various on-going operations with a view to charting new course towards addressing national security challenges.

He said the conference would, among others, deepen the interface between the military strategic leadership and operational commanders, while ensuring clearer strategic guidance.

According to him, it will also deepen synergy and interagency collaboration within the joint operation area.

“It will promote adequate operational resourcing, increase operational table efficiency and situational awareness in the various joint operational areas.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, were present at the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru/Idris Abdulrahman

By Diana Omueza

The Global Security Sector Reform Foundation (GS-Foundation) in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Police Reform and Transformation Office (PORTO) has trained more than 600 police officers on police reforms.

Mr Tunji Lardner, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PORTO, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja at the end of the training programme on strengthening capacity building for police reforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme is executed under the Supporting Police Reform Processes in Nigeria Project funded by the Federal Foreign Office of the Government of Germany.

Lardner said that the training, which was done in batches had successfully exposed the police officers to global best practices in andragogy and adult education.

“Since December 2021, the project has been actively supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria’s implementation of its Police Reform agenda and contributing to the implementation of the progressive aspirations of the Nigeria Police Force Establishment Act 2020.

“In doing so, the project has trained more than 600 police officers drawn from police training colleges on the Police Act and modern adult training with the hope of shifting the learning approach from drilling to a classroom approach.

“Furthermore, in creating a more conducive learning environment for the police, the project has renovated and equipped the Central Police Training Unit (CPTU) in Jos, Plateau State,” he said.

The CEO said that additionally, the training of 66 Police PROs had resulted in significant enhancements in communication regarding reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.

“It is important to note that the intervention carried out by the project was the result of a comprehensive needs assessment conducted in collaboration with GS-Foundation, UNDP and PORTO,’’ he said.

Lardner said that the partnership with UNDP, GS-Foundation, and the NPF played a pivotal role in the achievement of the police reform objectives.

According to him, the accomplishment sets a remarkable precedent for the future of policing in Nigeria as the training has boosted officers’ capabilities, enabling them to provide training experiences of the highest quality, as well as aligning with international standards.

“In three batches, officers participated in a week-long training experience, equipping them with practical teaching strategies designed to enhance the training of recruits at Police colleges and personnel in all commands and zones.

“This achievement builds upon the success of the project, which has trained more than 500 police officers in nine batches between June 2022 and May 2023.

“These efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernise the methods and delivery of fundamental cadet training, provide leadership development for senior and mid-level officers, and sustain the momentum of ongoing reforms, ” he

In her remarks, Mrs Annett Günther, the Germany Ambassador to Nigeria, said that the training of cadets was an essential aspect of an effective and modern police force.

She said by completing their training, the police trainees graduating would be able to carry out an effective training for cadets.

“I congratulate the police officers for having successfully completed their training as well as the Nigeria Police Force and PORTO for having facilitated the training with the help of the GS-Foundation and UNDP,” she said.

She added that the training was a significant stride towards enhancing the capabilities and professionalism of the NPF personnel.

Similarly, Mr Mohammed Yahya, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlighted the significance of the intervention towards a reformed police.

According to him, we are deeply gratified by the strides achieved through the Supporting Police Reform Processes in Nigeria project.

“This training milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to supporting Nigeria in the development of a police force capable of addressing the multifaceted challenges within today’s intricate security landscape.

“It reflects our global dedication to peace, development, the rule of law, equality, and the sustainable advancement of systems.”

NAN reports that the trained officers were drawn from various commands across the country and no fewer than 120 officers were successfully trained in the last batch of the programme facilitated by a team of Police trainers from GS-Foundation..(NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Isaac Aregbesola

By  Bridget Ikyado

The Federal Government has taken steps to beef up security in rural areas to curb incessant attacks on communities, Rev. Yakubu Pam, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission     (NCPC), has said.

Pam gave the assurance on Thursday when he paid condolence visit to leaders of St Raphael Catholic Church in Fadan Kamatan, Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that gunmen had on Sept. 7, attacked the church in an attempt to abduct some clergies.

They however failed to gain entry into the church and while retreating, set ablaze home of the parish priest, where a seminarian, Naam Ngofe-Danladi, was burnt to death.

“Don’t be deceived, this does not have religious colorations, some people are out to steal, kill and destroy. Be on guard, pray and watch,” he added.

The NCPC boss said the visit was also to acertain the extent of damage and report back to President Bola Tinubu.

He assured that federal government was committed to ending insecurity in the country.

Pam explained that attacks and kidnappings in communities, including Southern Kaduna, Zamfara and other states, was largely to distrupt the peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

He urged various communities in the country affected by the security challenges not to be distracted.

“The federal government will partner communities to ensure more patrol teams are deployed to provide security,” he added.

He advised the communities to live peacefully and unite to build back southern Kaduna.

Pam also appealled to the communities to report suspicious movements to the authorities for proper monitoring and action.

In a remark, the Chief of Atang Chiefdom, Mr Adamu Alkali appreciated the federal government delegation for the visit.

He solicited for the deployment of more patrol teams for timely interventions and elimination of criminals elements in the area.

The chief prayed for the success of the present administration in working for the good of the country and its citizens.

While narrating his experience, the parish priest, Rev. Fr Emmanuel Okolo said all his valuables were burnt, but assured that would not be deterred from preaching the gospel.

He thanked God and the host community for maintaining peace “and not blindly carried away by rumours that the attack was a religious war.”

The priest called for prayers and more action by the state and federal government to bring back peace across the country.

NAN reports that Pam accompanied by the Southern Kaduna Joint Peace Committee, also met with the Muslem community to solicit for peaceful coexistence. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed