By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, says Africa requires political stability to attract foreign direct investment to achieve sustainable economic growth and development.

Akume said this while delivering Graduation Lecture for participants of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 31, on Monday in Abuja.

The lecture, which has the theme; “Economic Growth and Regional Development: Strategic Options for Africa”, is part of activities lined up by the college for the graduation of its Course 31 participants.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Services, OSGF, Alhaji Aliyu Shinkafi, he said that the African region and Nigeria, in particular, must do everything possible to ensure political and economic stability.

This, he noted, would help to gain the confidence of investors for sustainable regional development.

He identified income inequality, environmental impact, and resources allocation, vulnerability to global economic and political instability as major challenges of economic growth at national levels.

The SGF, however said that opportunities abound for sustainable economic development in the continent such as abundant natural resources, agricultural potential, growing consumer market, youthful population, renewable energy potential as well as technology and innovation.

According to him, diversification of economies, infrastructural development, human capital investment, sustainable agriculture and agribusiness, inclusive policies and access to capital are strategies that can guarantee economic growth in Africa.

“By capitalising on sectors of comparative advantage, investing in infrastructure, and promoting innovation and technology, African nations can spur economic diversification and lay the foundation for inclusive growth.

“The interconnectedness of regional economies calls for collaborative efforts that transcend borders, fostering cross-border trade, investments, and knowledge sharing.

“Strengthening regional institutions and frameworks will facilitate coordinated policy actions, promote stability, and create an environment conducive to attract both domestic and foreign investments.

Akume also said that education and skills development stood as cornerstones for Africa’s success story.

“Empowering the continent’s youth with relevant knowledge and skills will drive entrepreneurship, create jobs, and nurture a workforce that can contribute to global value chains, enhancing competitiveness and sustainable development.

“A commitment to good governance, transparency, and the rule of law is imperative to build investor confidence, ensure effective resource management, and mitigate risks associated with corruption and political instability.

“Simultaneously, addressing social inequalities and promoting social safety nets will cultivate an environment of social cohesion, enhancing the overall resilience of African societies,” he added.

The Commandant, National Defence College (NDC), Rear Adm. Olumuyiwa Olotu, in his remarks, said that the topic of the graduation lecture was informed by the fact that the African continent had continued to experience slow pace of economic development.

This Olotu said was at a time when the rest of the world was developing at geometric proportion.

He added that the recent world economic outlook showed that African countries were only found at number 32, 39 and 40 occupied by Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt on the list of 40 fastest growing economies in the world.

This, according to him, is a clear indication that African countries still have a long way to go in growing their economies in order to impact positively on the overall development of the continent.

“A closer look at Africa indicates that the continent have to rest on endemic poverty, low technology capacity, over dependence on imports, minimum value change for natural resources amongst others.

“These have made Africa to be jumping around for all types of inferior quality goods and service,” he said.

Olotu noted that the African situation was further compounded by the political instability, insurgency and other security challenges as well as the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

These, he said, have impacted negatively on economic growth and regional development in the continent, adding that the African leaders could develop and implement viable strategies that would enhance economic growth and development in the continent.

He urged participants to pay attention to the lecture and thereafter evaluate how their services and organisations could better contribute to society, particularly on the issues surrounding economic growth and regional development. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Olawunmi Ashafa

By Deborah Coker

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has lauded the Nigerian Navy for acquiring new platforms to fight illegal activities on Nigerian waters and in the Gulf of Guinea.

Matawalle gave the commendation on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade of Batch 34 Trainees of the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Onne, Rivers.

This is contained in a statement in Abuja by Mrs Victoria Agba-Attah, Director, Press and Public Relations in the defence ministry.

Matawalle said that the new platforms would also increase Nigerian Navy’s dominance and influence in the fight against crude oil theft.

“The new acquired platforms would serve as enablers to increase the Nigerian Navy’s dominance and influence in the fight against crude oil theft, illegal refining, pipeline vandalism, piracy and illegal unreported unregulated fishing activities.”

He charged the 1,865 ratings of batch 34 to hold strongly to the core values of the Nigerian Navy which was footed on integrity, professionalism and teamwork.

Matawalle also told the ratings that they were the key to victory in any assigned task as such they should always commit themselves to the security of the nation.

He expressed confidence that the personnel and new platforms would energise the fight against criminals operating on Nigerian waters and in the Gulf of Guinea. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed
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By Sumaila Ogbaje

Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau, has challenged members of the 50th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to deploy their competences in addressing the nation’s security challenges.

Dambazau, also a former Minister of Interior, gave the charge at the 20th anniversary Reunion Gala Night of the NDA 50^th Regular Course, on Saturday in Abuja.

He expressed joy with the course members, saying they came to the NDA when he was the Registrar and Secretary to the Armed Forces Selection Board that screened them in 1998.

The former army chief said he had been fortunate and privileged to witness firsthand the transformation that occurred from the first year of the officers to their final year and now as senior officers in the Nigerian armed forces.

“Your training at the Defence Academy was not just about theory but practical military leadership, friendships that would last a lifetime, and the personal discoveries that helped shape your character.

“From the first day you were admitted to the moment you passed out, your journey has been a testament to your dedication, resilience, and quest for excellence.

“Each of you holds a unique tale of growth, struggle, and triumph in the face of arduous tasking and adversity.

“The legacy you carry forward proves the power of sound military education, and I am truly honored to have played a part in your journey,” he said.

Dambazau said that integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence were values that the armed forces cherished.

He urged them to ensure that their stories continue to inspire the next generation, by showing them that the path to success requires dedication and willingness to learn from both triumphs and setbacks.

“I encourage you to embrace your roles as mentors and guides to younger officers, particularly in this age where competent junior leadership is sorely needed to solve the internal security challenges we face as a nation.

“As you continue to excel in your endeavors, you must remember to carry the values instilled at the academy.

“You must remain connected, not just as course mates, but as a community bound by shared experiences and a common commitment to impact our nation and the world positively.

“Your experiences, insights, and practical wisdom remain invaluable assets that can help shape the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers.

“This task is a lifelong endeavor, and I urge you all to embrace it with the dedication of a professional military officer,” he added.

The President, 50th Regular Course Association, Col. Mukhtar Daruda, thanked Dambazau, immediate past Chief Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor and other retired senior officers for their contributions that molded them into the class of officers that they had become.

Daruda said the military as an institution had invested so much in their training from cadets to where they are now, saying they would remain committed to the defence of Nigeria.

He said the reunion had afforded them the opportunity to reconnect and bond as well as remember their colleagues who had laid the ultimate price while defending the nation.

The Chairman, Organising Committee, Col. Abbas Umar, said that 144 out of the 191 cadets that were admitted for the course passed out in 2003, nine have died, and some have since left the service.

“At the moment, the course has 50 colonels and five Lieutenant Colonels, 30 Navy captains and two commanders in Nigerian Navy and 40 Group Captains and one Wing commander in Nigerian Air Force.

“This event has afforded us the opportunity to come together and celebrate as course mates after leaving the NDA 20 years ago.

“It is also a good avenue for us to remember our colleagues who fought and died while defending this nation,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the senior officers who taught the officers at the academy took turn to share experiences with regards to how some of the officers were handled as cadets.

Widows and family members of the deceased course mates were presented with tokens during the dinner. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

By Abbas Bamalli

The Katsina State Government has disbursed N20 million to support 33 families of local vigilantee members who lost their lives in the line of duty .

Gov. Dikko Radda announced this during the presentation of cash to the victims’ families in Katsina on Saturday.

Radda represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abdullahi Faskari, said that some of the beneficiaries would receive N500,000 cash.

The governor added that no fewer than 10 vigilantee members who sustained injuries and a policeman get N250,000 each, while the family of one military officer who also lost his life received N1 million cash.

He added that that some members of the public who sustained injuries during the recent bandit attacks across the affected areas would also be considered in due course.

Radda explained that the gesture was part of his campaign promises towards appreciating those who sacrificed their lives and comfort in securing the state.

He assured the commitment of his administration towards fighting insecurity and other criminal tendencies across the state.

“My office is always open for advice and suggestions that will assist our administration to fulfill and actualise its promises,” he said.

Alhaji Sa’idu Danja, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Support of Victims of Banditry earlier said the government had spent over N11.8 million for the treatment of victims of banditry attacks.

According to him, over 80 victims were treated free of charged at various health facilities, adding about 40 of them had since been discharged.

Also,Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumin Kabir-Usman, commended the gesture and appealed to the government to expand the scope to accommodate more victims.

The royal farther was represented by the Galadiman Katsina and District Head of Malumfashi, Alhaji Sadiq Abdullahi-Mahuta.

Malam Salisu Rabo-Kurfi, State Commander of Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), appreciated the government saying the support was desirous and timely.

Malam Garba Musa who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries described the gesture as miraculous as they never expected it.

He assured that they would make judicious use of the cash donations.(NAN)

Edited by Auwalu Birnin Kudu/Julius Toba-Jegede

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Member of the 50 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) have reaffirmed their loyalty and commitment to the Nigerian state and to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The Chairman of 50th Regular Course Cooperative, Col. Abba Umar, gave the assurance on Saturday during a fitness exercise to mark the 20th Anniversary/Reunion in Abuja.

The fitness exercise which took place at the Aguyi Ironsi Cantonment Sports Arena in Asokoro is part of activities lined up by the group to commemorate the 20 years of their departure from NDA.

Umar said the event marked the first time they were reuniting since 20 years after they left the NDA, adding that they decide to bring their families along to bond with one other.

“We are reaffirming our loyalty to the Nigerian state and to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“We are soldiers and it is our paramount duty to pledge our alloyed loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief as well as Nigerian states,” he said.

Umar said the event afforded them the opportunity to reconnect as colleagues and to also bring their families and children together, create friendships among them and also have the opportunity to help one another along the line.

“It has been long 20 years and we have also lost our colleagues in the fight to defend this very important country.

“This an opportunity for us to bring their families and their children to formally acknowledge them, appreciate them for what they have done for this great nation,” he said.

Umar said the association had ensured that families of their deceased colleagues are carried along and cared for, adding that the group usually reaches out to them during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day every year.

He said the group had been meeting regularly during courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College or the National Defense College, adding that they never had ample time to relate since they left NDA.

“So we got the permission for us to hold this reunion so as to allow each and every person that is not currently engaged to come together to make this event colourful.

“When we started in NDA, we were like 191 when entered 25 years ago and then along the line, some could not make it the end and we were 141 that graduated.

“Along the line, some left as Captain, Major and Lieutenant Colonel ranks and unfortunately we lost some of them, like nine of them.

“So currently, we have like 50 Colonels and five Lieutenant Colonels in the army. We equally have three Navy captains and one commander and we have almost like a 27 to 28 Group captains and two Squadron Leaders in the Air Force,” he said.

Also, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Member of Organising Committee, said the reunion meant a lot to them owing to the fact their set bear the brunt of most of the ongoing operations around the country.

He said they were growing in service and had to answer the clarion call since insurgency started.

Similarly, Group Capt. Jubril Mamman of the Nigerian Air Force, said they need to integrate and do better as they grow in service.

“As we are bonding, we are bonding ourselves, we are bonding our families and we hope that these bonds will last for a long time to come,” he said.

A member of the course, retired Lt.-Commander Ibrahim Baba-Inna, appreciated God for bringing them together after 20 years, adding that some of them who left the service are excelling in their various endeavours.

Baba-Inna, who was a governorship candidate in the last General Election in Adamawa, said the event was all about bonding since some of them had not seen each other 20 years ago.

“That is why we’re celebrating this reunion because so many of us have moved on while there are other colleagues of ours who flew from outside the country to come for this reunion.

“So many of our colleagues that are retired are into different kinds of businesses. Some are bankers, some are in the real estate sector.

“So a lot has been happening, and this reunion affords us the opportunity to come together to bond because we know ourselves, but we need to really know our families and our kids.

Baba-Inna, who runs an NGO that caters for military veterans said he had remained an advocate of the welfare of the veterans and widows of fallen heroes.

While commending the Military Pension Board for prompt payment of entitlements, he urged government to do more to enhance their welfare. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The South-East Women Professionals based in Anambra have lauded  the Nigerian Armed Forces and other sister agencies for their efforts in improving security situation in the zone.

This is contained  in a statement jointly  signed  by the President of the group, Mrs Ijeoma Okafor and Secretary, Princess Ada Udi and made available to newsmen  in Abuja on Saturday.

The group attributed the feat to the efforts of the Armed Forces and the unwavering commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa.

The group said: “The CDS is fully committed to the  restoration of peace nationwide especially in the South-East region.”

The statement appreciated the significant improvement recorded as business activities which were initially  grounded  in the zone were gradually bouncing back.

The group also solicited the cooperation and understanding of the residents to the security agencies for lasting peace and stability in  the zone.

“We cannot but commend the Armed Forces  under its present leadership for the improvement on the  security situation in the South-East zone.

“The zone have been turned into a war zone by criminals who were  trying to traumatise  the peace loving people of the zone.

“The ongoing clearance operations by troops of the AFN are a welcome development as  life is gradually  returning to normal.

“We, therefore, urge the residents  to support and work with the military toward  restoring   peace and stability in the area,” the group added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Auwalu Birnin Kudu/Bashir Rabe Mani

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Friday, visited the leadership of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs ( NSCIA) and solicited for prayers and support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Friday in Abuja.

The CDS said he visited the Islamic clerics to convey good tidings from the armed forces to the entire Muslim Ummahs and to profoundly thank the Islamic leaders for their relentless prayers towards the military and the nation in general.

He said the country was currently passing through some challenges and assured that the country would continue to grow, remain better and surely be safe.

Musa added  that the armed forces was highly united and committed to the civil authority as well as protection of democracy in Nigeria.

The National President of the NSCIA and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar 111, consoled the CDS on the recent loss of Military personnel in a plane crash in Niger.

The Sultan, who was represented by Haroun Eze said that the NSCIA had always prayed for the military in its fight against insurgency and terrorism.

He also called for a peaceful  resolution to the political situation in our neighboring Niger Republic. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Edeki Igafe

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA has handed over MT TECNE vessel to the officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The impounded vessel laden with 1,905.8 metric tons of products suspected to be stolen crude oil, was handed over to the anti-graft agency on Friday at the Warri Naval Base.

The EFCC consequently handed over the vessel to Showboy Integrated Services, who is now the buyer of the property.

Capt. Solomon Paul, Executive Officer of the NNS DELTA, released the vessel to the representatives of the EFCC on behalf of the Commander, NNS DELTA, Commodore Chindo Yahaya.

Addressing newsmen, Commodore Yahaya said that the vessel was released on the directives from the Naval Headquarters.

He said that the ship was apprehended on April 25, 2017 by the operatives of the NNS DELTA within the Warri waterways.

“It will be recalled that MT TECNE was apprehended on April 25, 2017 for engaging in illegal oil bunkering in the Warri waterways.

“Preliminary investigation reports had it that the vessel was laden with 1,905. 83 metric tonnes of crude oil allegedly stolen. The vessel was earlier handed over to the EFCC for prosecution.

“Consequently, at the end of the court case, the Naval Headquarters has directed the revocation of the product and subsequent release of the vessel to Showboy Integrated Services.

“On this note, I have handed over the vessel to the representatives of the EFCC for subsequent handing over to the Showboy Integrated Services,” he said.

Mr Lawan Ado, representative of the EFCC, Port Harcourt, received the vessel on behalf of the anti-graft agency.

“After a successful investigation and prosecution, we are able to secure the condition and the vessel is finally forfeited to the Federal Government.

“And we have auctioned it to Showboy Integrated Services. We are here to hand it over to the company’s representatives,” Ado said.

On his part, Mr Adetokunbo Arowojolu, the representative of Showboy Integrated Services, said that the vessel would be used for legitimate businesses. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran/Joseph Edeh

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army (NA) has dismissed as fake, an online advert by fraudulent individuals claiming to be conducting recruitment on behalf of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Friday in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said the fake recruitment was done by dubious individuals in the name of one Maj.-Gen. Gwabin Musa.

He said it was published on Facebook and other social media platforms, where the said individual offered to assist 20 interested persons into any of the services.

Nwachukwu said the impostor was not in any way associated with the Nigerian army or any of the services of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The spokesman said that the army does not conduct recruitment by proxy or through unofficial channels and individuals.

He said the army conducted her recruitment in line with its policy and guidelines on recruitment, as enshrined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions Service Soldiers, Rating and Airmen Revised 2017 Edition.

According to him, army recruitment processes are transparent, well-regulated and coordinated which include credential screening, medical tests, physical and mental tests, aptitude tests and oral interviews.

“The Nigerian army implores members of the public to be vigilant and cautious, when encountering such recruitment offers online.

“The Nigerian army has designated channels and platforms through which all official recruitment information is disseminated.

“It must be emphasised, that the army does not request any form of payment or pecuniary commitment during its recruitment exercises.

“Any individual or group claiming to represent the NA and demanding payment should be reported immediately.

“We are actively working with law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible for this fraudulent activity.

“We encourage members of the public to assist in the endeavour, by reporting suspicious recruitment offers and individuals to the appropriate authorities.

“The safety and security of members of the public remain our top priority,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Joseph Edeh