By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, has advocated human-centred security approaches by addressing the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion.

Badaru made the call at the opening of the 14th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), on Monday in Abuja.

The seminar with the theme, “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” was organised in collaboration with Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and National Defence College (NDC).

The minister pointed out that in a world where security challenges know no borders, there was a need for collective action in addressing the nation’s security concerns.

He called for a “whole-of-society” approach to tackle pressing issues like hunger, poverty, and violence.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Nigerians and praised the Armed Forces and security agencies for their bravery and innovation in responding to security threats.

According to him, the seminar served as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable solutions, foster dialogue, and promote inclusive approaches to national security.

The minister expressed his confidence in the collective efforts of Nigerians to build a secure and prosperous future where peace and stability reign supreme.

“May our collective efforts continue to strengthen our path towards unity, resilience, and sustainable national security,” he said.

In his remarks, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, said that national security was a collective responsibility, adding that it demands a multidimensional and collaborative approach.

Ribadu, represented by the Director, Defence Affairs at ONSA, Maj.-Gen. Peter Mala, said the year’s theme touched at the very heart of the national challenges.

According to him, hunger and poverty are not merely social concerns; they are catalysts for insecurity, crime, violence, and social disintegration.

“These issues form a vicious cycle — poverty leads to insecurity, and insecurity, in turn, deepens poverty.

“The Federal Government under President Tinubu has prioritised agricultural reforms, social investment programmes, and security sector interventions aimed at breaking this cycle.

“These efforts are visible through increased support for food security initiatives, enhanced law enforcement capacity, and infrastructure to support agricultural production and distribution,’’ he said.

Ribadu said his office had continued to coordinate both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts across the armed forces, intelligence services, security agencies, and relevant government and non-governmental actors.

According to him, in spite of the progress made, issues like unemployment, hunger, and youth disenfranchisement remain persistent and require deeper and long-term solutions.

He said the forum presents an excellent platform for collective introspection and the sharing of ideas towards tackling the dynamic and multifaceted challenges confronting the nation.

NSA commended the alumni association for their commitment to national development and bringing together thought leaders, security experts, policymakers, and citizens to chart a path forward. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

By Ibironke Ariyo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on faith-based organisations, families and corporate bodies to intensify their support for the prevention of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.

The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, made the call on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Wuye, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the service was held as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The theme for the year 2025 World Drug Day is “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”

Marwa, who was represented by the Secretary of the NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna, acknowledged the sacrifice by personnel and thanked God for the lives of the agency’s officers.

“We thank God for preserving our lives and for the relentless efforts of our officers who work daily to rid the streets of harmful substances.

“Unfortunately, we have lost some officers in the process, but we continue to push forward,” he said.

Marwa, however, emphasised the critical role of parents in drug abuse prevention, urging them to instil sound moral values in their children and support them in making the right choices.

“Prevention starts at home. Parents are the first line of defence. If values are instilled early, we can reduce drug use among young people,” he said.

The NDLEA Chairman also urged individuals already struggling with drug addiction to seek help through the NDLEA’s anonymous support line: 080 1020 3040.

He assured that the line was available 24/7 for counselling and rehabilitation, not to arrest.

He also commended the faith-based groups for their role in the agency’s drug demand reduction strategy.

“For effective drug demand reduction, we need faith-based groups, families, and organisations. MFM has shown that churches can amplify this message through their platforms and communities,” he added.

Marwa noted that similar prayers and engagements were held in mosques earlier in the week as part of the agency’s inclusive and strategic outreach.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to reducing drug use in the country, stressing that collective action, moral responsibility, and spiritual support were essential in combating the scourge.

“Every family has either been directly or indirectly affected by drug abuse. That’s why we must all rise, invest in prevention, and work together to save our youths and communities,” he stated.

Speaking, Pastor Edwin Etomi, the Senior Regional Overseer of MFM, called on faith-based organisations, families, and all sectors of society to actively support the NDLEA in tackling substance abuse in Nigeria.

Etomi stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to curb drug-related challenges.

He urged other places of worship to emulate MFM’s example by engaging in efforts that empower youths and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“This is a way of repositioning our youth for better exports and usefulness in society.

“Drug abuse is a menace, and it will take every hand that is the parents, churches, private and public sectors to reduce its impact,” he said.

Addressing the issue of stigma, Etomi cautioned against condemning victims of drug addiction, encouraging families and institutions to offer support and inclusion.

Etomi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying the country has immense potential that could be unlocked through collective responsibility and strategic collaboration with institutions like NDLEA.

“This is not the time to stigmatise anybody. This is a time to help. NDLEA cannot do it alone.

“We believe in this country and in what God can still do through us and through structured organisations like the NDLEA,” he added.

NAN reports that the service, attended by NDLEA officers and church members, featured prayers for divine protection of operatives on the frontline and the success of the agency’s ongoing nationwide efforts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

By Desmond Ejibas

The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to bolster training and its internal security operations across the country.

Rear Adm. Istifanus Albara, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), made this known on Saturday during a farewell parade at the NAVTRAC Headquarters in Ebubu-Eleme, Rivers, to mark his redeployment.

Albara stated that the Navy has plans to integrate AI to improve maritime security, enhance training, simulation capabilities, and support Nigeria’s broader economic and national security objectives.

According to him, the adoption of AI is central to strengthening the professional training and retraining of both officers and ratings of the Navy.

“These days, technology drives everything, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, which is set to shape the future of security operations.

“The Nigerian Navy is working towards incorporating AI technology into our training programmes to prepare our personnel for future warfare and internal security operations,” he stated.

The outgoing FOC further noted that the Navy was reviewing its training curriculum and capacity-building strategies in the management of personnel.

He commended the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, for prioritising infrastructure, training, and other reforms within the service.

Reflecting on his 16-month tenure, Albara expressed gratitude to God, the CNS, and members of the command for their support.

“My tenure has been highly eventful, and I deeply appreciate the opportunities and challenges that have helped shape my command,” he said.

He highlighted several achievements during his tenure such as the accreditation and curriculum upgrade of Navy professional institutions and the relocation of the NAVTRAC headquarters from Apapa, Lagos, to Ebubu-Eleme.

According to him, the command focused on improving professionalism through realistic training, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships.

“Efforts were also made to enhance e-learning platforms, restore simulation tools such as the ECDIS at NNS Quorra, and initiate accreditation with relevant national bodies, including NIMASA,” he stated.

Albara added that new training sites were acquired in Makurdi in Benue, and Ota in Ogun, with support from respective state governments and traditional institutions.

He urged the command to sustain the current momentum and ensure the completion of ongoing projects.

The News of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event concluded with a formal handover to Rear Adm. Robert Obeya, Albara’s successor.

Highlights included ceremonial parades featuring slow and quick march-pasts and other naval manoeuvres. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

By Hamza Suleiman

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, has commended troops deployed in the Lake Chad for their gallantry and operational success in repelling a recent attack on naval base by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

Ogalla gave the commendation on Saturday during an operational visit to Nigerian Naval Base in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno.

The CNS, who was accompanied by the Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Maj.- Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, lauded the troops for the heavy casualties they inflicted on the insurgents during the attack on Wednesday.

“I am here on an operational visit to the Naval Base on Lake Chad and by extension, the Theatre Command of OPHK. This base remains a strategic stronghold in our ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.

“I have come to commend the troops for the courage and professionalism they displayed, which ensured that the enemy suffered a massive defeat. If they ever attempt to attack this base again, they will think twice,” Ogalla said.

He, however, announced that the Naval Headquarters had taken steps to deploy additional fighting equipment and personnel to further strengthen their operational capabilities.

The CNS charged them to sustain the momentum and take the battle to all terrorist’s enclaves, in and around the Lake Chad region, stressing the importance of securing the waterways for civilian and military activities.

Ogalla also conveyed the appreciation and support of President Bola Tinubu and the military high command, adding that the Federal Government was committed to the welfare of personnel and providing the necessary resources for ongoing operations.

He urged the troops to remain resolute and focused, while emphasising on the need for synergy among security agencies in the theatre.

“The Battalion here and the Navy Base must work as twin brothers in the fight against the hydra-headed threat of insurgency,” he said.

The CNS called on the troops to eschew inter-agency rivalry and maintain unity of purpose in defeating Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, who continue to pose a threat to national security. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdullahi Mohammed