News Agency of Nigeria
Abuja Airport Garden City to Feature Over 3,000 Modern Homes, Best Facilities – Developer
General News

Abuja Airport Garden City to Feature Over 3,000 Modern Homes, Best Facilities – Developer

Road
By Dorcas Jonah

The Chief Executive Officer of First Rotech, Mr Austin Oguejiofor, says the Abuja Airport Garden City will feature more than 3,000 modern homes with state-of-the-art facilities.

Oguejiofor said that the city, spanning 250 hectares in Gousa District, is designed to be one of the best in terms of aesthetics and quality architectural design in sub-Saharan Africa.

He made the disclosure during a site visit by the Federal Capital Development Authority’s Engineering Department team on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the aim of the project is not only to address Abuja’s housing deficit but also to provide a contemporary living environment with excellent infrastructure.

Oguejiofor stated that the project would transform Gousa District into a vibrant, well-connected community, significantly contributing to Abuja’s growth and development.

“The Abuja Airport Garden City will also feature 40 kilometres of internal roads,” he said.

He stated that the team inspected the progress of the access road, which would reduce travel time from Abuja’s city centre to the Abuja Airport Garden City by 10 minutes.

Oguejiofor said the ongoing construction of a 40-kilometre access road would significantly enhance connectivity to Gousa District, fostering rapid development in the area.

The CEO said the access road, connecting to Idu Railway Station, would provide a shorter route from districts such as Garki, Maitama, and Wuye.

Oguejiofor told newsmen that the inspection was to ascertain the level of work on the 40-kilometre access road near Idu Railway Station, leading to Abuja Airport Garden City.

According to him, the project will help open up Gousa District and provide a shorter route to the airport.

“The Abuja Airport Garden City has been planned and approved by relevant agencies.

“The access road is our priority, connecting the city centre to the project site.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

Trust, accountability key to success in management – Ex-Naval Chief
General News

Trust, accountability key to success in management – Ex-Naval Chief

By Rukayat Moisemhe

A military strategist, Retired Rear Admiral Babalola Egbedina has stressed the importance of building trust and accountability in management, particularly in decentralised command within divisional structures.

He said this on Thursday at the 2025 Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM) awards, fellows and spouses’ day luncheon in Lagos.

The event was themed: “Building Trust and Accountability: “The Human Element of Decentralised Command within Divisional Structures”.

Egbedina listed strategies for building trust and accountability in decentralised systems to include clear communication, well-defined roles, autonomy with oversight, regular feedback, performance monitoring, among others.

He noted that the divisional system as practised in the Nigerian Navy offered advantages.

The advantages, according to him, include enhanced operational efficiency, leadership development, improved personnel welfare, flexibility, innovation, and clear accountability.

He also highlighted the central role of the human element in management.

 

Egbedina said that while technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) provided valuable tools, they could not replace the originality and uniqueness of the human element in organisations.

 

According to him, focusing on personal welfare and development within divisions directly improves efficiency, while also fostering leadership skills and stronger team cohesion.

 

The expert urged managers to remain informed and broaden their perspectives by reading quality publications and engaging with diverse sources of knowledge.

 

“No matter the allure that Artificial Intelligence (AI) possesses, it cannot replace the originality and uniqueness of the human element in the organisation.

 

“As for managers, they should stay perpetually informed by reading quality publications and anything else you can lay your hands on to broaden their perspectives,” he said.

NIM President , Retired Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, charged the newly inducted fellows not to be contented with just adding the appellation (FNIM) to their names.

He said it was a call to higher responsibility and service to the institute, the management profession and the nation.

 

Ayuba said for fellows to avail the institute with their professional competencies, they had been constituted into sectoral groups.

 

“The faculties are expected to identify issues and challenges in areas related to their disciplines, propose studies of such issues with a view to making policy recommendations to government,” he said.

 

Ayuba also lauded the institute’s elder statesmen and women conferred with life membership award for keeping faith with the institute over the years.

 

He said to qualify for the award, a member must have attained the age of 70, served the institute and the Nigerian Society selflessly and adjudged to be above reproach, among other obligations.(NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Buhari Bolaji

Former AIG Ezike urges journalists on principles of hard work, truth
General News

Former AIG Ezike urges journalists on principles of hard work, truth

By Angela Atabo

Retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Chris Ezike, has advised Nigerian journalists to follow the principles of hard work, resilience, sincerity and consistency in their professional duties.

Ezike, who is the Chief of Staff to Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), made the call when a journalist, Ismail Omipidan presented 100 copies of his book “Persona Non Grata” to Sir Emeka Offor in Abuja.

He praised the author’s commitment to truth and his ability to work with diverse principles, noting that consistency and sincerity are keys to success in journalism.

Ezike emphasised that journalism is about stating the truth, adding that the principle is essential for building trust and credibility with audiences.

“The writer of this book is a seasoned journalist who in the course of his growth and tutelage has been able to put together his challenges, his positive outcomes to not just journalists, but to other members of the public.

“Journalism is about stating the truth. You can choose the flip side and that is telling lies. But he wanted best practice journalism and that is why he has put it together.

“You need to be resilient, you need to be hard working, you need to be sincere and you need to be consistent as a journalist.

“If you have these four qualities, you will be able to make it just like Omipidan has made it,” he said.

Ezike said that the foundation would distribute the book “Persona Non Grata” to universities and colleges of education across Nigeria under the SEOF national book distribution initiative.

He added that SEOF had consistently promoted reading culture across Nigeria and Africa through massive book donations in partnership with a body, Books for Africa.

He noted that Persona Non Grata would now join the pool of educational resources to be made available to students.

“One book can train a generation because books represent the bank of knowledge.

“Our founder believes in the power of books and this is why Persona Non Grata will be part of our national distribution to universities and colleges of education,” Ezike said.

Responding, Omipidan commended the foundation for receiving him and accepting his books.

He described Offor’s donation and support to him as “a powerful endorsement of the effort to tell Nigeria’s story of courage, resilience and consistency through the lens of a journalist.”

He explained that the memoir, Persona Non Grata, chronicles his remarkable journey through journalism and politics, offering readers rare insights into the inner workings of Nigeria’s corridors of power.

Omipidan said that the book explored defining moments such as the 2022 Osun governorship election and the birth and death of the six-year single term proposal under Goodluck Jonathan.

He further said that the book equally chronicled the emergence of the 8th Senate’s leadership and the contest for political power in Borno between 2003 and 2011 among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

NGO advocates for accessible, affordable housing services for PLWD
General News

NGO advocates for accessible, affordable housing services for PLWD

By Aderogba George

The Ability Life Initiative (TALI), a non-governmental organisation has advocated for accessible and affordable housing and transportation services for Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWD).

Dr Prada Uzodimma, the Co-Founder of the initiative, made the call at a stakeholder’s forum on inclusive transport and accessible housing for persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

She said that the forum was not just organised to dialogue with stakeholders, but a summit of responsibility to address the numerous responsibilities bedevilling persons with disabilities.

“The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has set before us both a challenge and an opportunity to provide evidence-based, actionable inputs on transport accessibility in Nigeria.

“This action is guided by our obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and Nigeria’s Disability Act of 2018.

“The countdown to this OHCHR deadline reminds us that history will record not just our discussions, but our courage to act.

“Our task is clear: It is to identify the real barriers persons with disabilities face a crossroads, rails, airways, waterways, and cities among others.

“This is  to review our laws and policies with honesty, asking where they fall short and how we can align them with CRPD standards.

“This forum is to showcase solutions and innovations, from accessible taxis to inclusive housing models, proving that progress is not only possible but urgent.

“This project is important, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not just subjects of policy but authors of change, central in planning, implementation, and monitoring,” Uzodimma said.

She listed some of the expected outcomes the forum is expected to deliberate on and come out with tangible solutions that will be of benefit to persons living with disabilities.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr Tony Ojukwu, stated that persons with disabilities have long experienced marginalisation in inclusive transport and accessible housing, which are rights and not privileges.

He said that NHRC was established to create an enabling environment for the promotion, protection and enforcement of human rights of everyone living in Nigeria.

Ojukwu said that the forum was in line with the commitment and effort of the NHRC in advancing and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities to ensure inclusive transportation and accessible housing.

“This forum is convened under the auspices of the Human Rights Council Resolution 55/8 on the rights of persons with disabilities, for inclusive infrastructure, transport and housing.

He said that OHCHR had requested the NHRC and other stakeholders to submit relevant information for its annual thematic study on the rights of persons with disabilities.

According to him, the human rights council Resolution 55/8 mandates OHCHR “to prepare its annual thematic study on the rights of persons with disabilities, and on disability-inclusive infrastructure, including transport and housing

He said that the forum was organised to initiate stakeholders’ conversation and to deepen partnership on the subject of access and inclusivity.

Ojukwu said that the forum would also collate relevant information that will guide inputs and generate practical recommendations to Human Rights Council report on the rights of persons with disabilities.

Mr Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, said that the stakeholders’ forum was  apt and timely.

He said that attention and focus should be drawn to the implementation of provisions of Section 9 of the Discrimination Against Persons with disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018.

“My administration is proud of this bold initiative taken by TALI. The time to emphasise total adherence to the section is long overdue, and its enforcement is now.

“This section focuses on goods, services, and facilities. It ensures that persons with disabilities have equal access to goods, services, and facilities, just like everyone else”.

The Managing Director/CEO, Federal Housing Authority, Mr Ojo Oyetunde, who was represented by his Special Assistant on technical, Arch. Peter Okpanachi, acknowledged the demand of TALI.

Oyetunde said the demand by TALI for persons with disabilities is recognised under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).

He said that FHA already had a plan to build affordable and accessible housing for this set of people.

The Ability Life Initiative is a movement initiated to bridge the gap for persons living with disability.

It is dedicated to empowering Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and advocating against discrimination.(NAN)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Survey shows strong support for women in politics
General News

Survey shows strong support for women in politics

 

 

 

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola

 

The Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), supported by the European Union (EU), has released survey findings showing overwhelming public support for women’s representation in governance.

 

 

 

The results were presented on Tuesday during a webinar titled ‘Sustaining Momentum for the Special Seats Bill: Survey Insights on Public Understanding and Support’.

 

 

 

The nationwide poll, commissioned by PLAC and conducted by NOIPolls in June 2025, surveyed more than 3,000 Nigerians across all six geo-political zones, 36 states, and the FCT.

 

 

 

Dr Chike Nwangwu, CEO of NOIPolls, noted that although public awareness remains low, there is significant support for women’s political representation across all demographics surveyed.

 

 

 

Presenting findings from the Perception Poll Report on Public Awareness and Understanding of the Special Seats Bill, Nwangwu said 91 per cent of respondents supported increased women’s participation in governance.

 

 

 

He added that 96 per cent of women and 89 per cent of men backed this view, reflecting a broad consensus across gender lines.

 

 

 

Nwangwu stated that 58 per cent of respondents expressed trust in institutions to advance the Bill, but participation in consultations or public forums remained very low at one per cent.

 

 

 

Nearly half, 49 per cent of respondents, recommended public awareness campaigns as the most effective strategy to build support, followed by social media mobilisation and partnerships with women’s groups.

 

 

 

Omolara Akinyeye, Deputy Executive Director of PLAC, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring inclusive governance remains firmly on the legislative agenda.

 

 

 

She stressed that the Special Seats Bill, which seeks to create additional legislative seats for women, would remain the central focus of advocacy efforts.

 

 

 

Akinyeye noted the strong support from the leadership of the 10th National Assembly and urged that public backing must be translated into concrete legislative outcomes.

 

 

 

She praised civil society efforts, stressing the opportunity to convert data into action by leveraging survey findings to sustain momentum.

 

 

 

“The real test lies in transforming the current energy into citizen demands on representatives – demands that become actual votes on the floor of the National Assembly,” she said.

 

 

 

OlaOluwa Olawumi, EU Programme Manager on Democracy, Rule of Law, and Gender, highlighted the EU’s commitment to inclusive governance and anticipation of further deliberations on the Bill.

 

 

 

“True development cannot be achieved without ensuring all members of society have a voice in decisions that affect them.

 

 

 

“Women’s political participation is essential for sustainable development and overall societal progress.

 

 

 

“The EU will continue supporting opportunities that strengthen women’s involvement in governance and decision-making,” Olawumi said.

 

 

 

Former House of Representatives member from Taraba, Rimamnde Shawulu, stressed the importance of political advocacy at the constituency level to advance inclusive representation.

 

 

 

Similarly, Esther Ijeaku, CEO of Skill Hub Consulting, highlighted strategic communications as vital for advocacy, stressing how empowered civil society groups can drive sustainable impact on the Bill. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NGO tasks stakeholders on community empowerment
General News

NGO tasks stakeholders on community empowerment

By Perpetua Onuegbu

The Nigeria Women Economic Development (NigWED), an NGO, has urged stakeholders to co-create practical pathways to empower people, strengthen communities and deepen international cooperation.

Dr Lugard Okonobo, Director-General NigWED, made the call at a stakeholders’ Interactive Meeting on Leveraging the Nigeria-Germany Transformation Hub (NGTH) Social Enterprise Projects in Nigeria.

Okonobo said that stakeholders representing government, civil society, private sector, diaspora groups, and international partners had a responsibility of building a more inclusive, sustainable and equitable future for all.

“Today, we engage not just in dialogue, but in co-creation exploring practical pathways to empower people, strengthen communities, and deepen international cooperation through strategic initiatives such as the ‘Nigeria-Germany Transformation Hub’.

“This Hub, operating as a dynamic social enterprise platform in Nigeria, stands as a beacon of what is possible when innovation, bilateral partnership, and community-centred development intersect.

“It presents us with a unique opportunity to build bridges, not just between countries, but across sectors and social divides,” he said.

Okonobo said gender and social inclusion, an SDG goal, could not be achieved without the participation of women, youths, persons with disabilities and marginalised communities.

He said that Safe and Legal Migration Pathways should be a choice not a necessity borne out of desperation.

He further said that Nigeria and Germany had continued to show that true transformation was possible through cooperative diplomacy.

Also speaking, Alhaji Suleiman Aminu, Chairman NGTH, said the event offered a platform to build partnerships, share ideas and explore how social enterprises could drive innovation and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.

Aminu, who is the National Coordinator/Founder of Tinubu Support Group, urged participants to engaged more fully and ensure that the relations translate into real impacts to people.

He further said that addressing sustainable, smart, and integrated agricultural development and nutrition were essential for combating hunger and building food sovereignty.

“Our efforts must empower rural communities and promote sustainable livelihoods for farmers and agriculture entrepreneurs. We celebrate and foster intercultural exchange through arts and sport.

“These are not mere extracurricular activities; they are powerful tools for building mutual understanding, healing divisions and promoting peace.

“Let us use them to bridge cultures, amplify diverse voices and promote social cohesion,” he said.

Mr Ambrose Okojie, President NGTH, said the event would renew shared resolve to work together across sectors, borders, and disciplines.

He urged participants to utilise the platform, not just as a space for programmes, but as a launch pad to change the narratives in Nigeria’s ecosystem.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the meeting was signing of Memorandum of Understanding between NGTH and All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Edo IDP camp coordinator bags ‘living legacy’ humanitarian award
General News

Edo IDP camp coordinator bags ‘living legacy’ humanitarian award

By Deborah Coker

Mr Solomon Folorunsho, Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, on Wednesday bagged the “Living Legacy” Humanitarian Award.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the award ceremony, organised by the Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards (HSD Award) in Abuja.

According to the organisers, Folorunsho was recognised for his exceptional track record in national development, societal upliftment, and relentless service to humanity.

Speaking shortly before receiving the award, Folorunsho stressed the importance of translating humanitarian ideals into daily practice.

He said it was the duty of the humanitarian community to prevent and alleviate suffering wherever it was found, with special focus on the most vulnerable.

“I want everyone in the humanitarian community to know that you are very special in the hands of God.

“If you look closely today, Nigeria is a huge humanitarian society, with many people in need of your service.

“Everyone you see suffering in the streets is a potential doctor, engineer, president, or lawyer. Though we may not be many today, the work we are doing will inspire others to join us,” he said.

Folorunsho added that offering help to the needy, regardless of religion, touched the heart of God.

“My experience shows that these are the persons God will bless, no matter their age.

“There are many in our society who are weak, disabled, homeless and displaced. When people are left without help, some resort to self-help, which often leads to crime.

“But if equal opportunities are given to every human being, we will see good results everywhere,” he said.

He explained that every activity at the Home for the Needy IDP camp was borne out of the need to serve humanity, noting that the less privileged also deserved dignity and care.

“Love your neighbour as yourself. Nigerians are neighbours to one another, and everyone in need is our neighbour,” he said.

Similarly, Dr Bashir Jamoh, immediate past Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), another awardee, said Nigerians in the North East remained the most vulnerable.

Jamoh noted that residents of the region faced frequent attacks and threats, and called for a central body to protect humanitarian workers.

“Sometimes they are attacked, killed, or maimed for no reason. It is our duty to structure an organisation under which humanitarian bodies can unite to safeguard aid workers and support their efforts,” he said.

He also urged the media to help change negative narratives by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged.

“It is our duty to support media teams who amplify these issues to the country and the world. Nigeria is already tagged as one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian workers,” he added.

NAN reports that the HSD Award is an annual event that celebrates individuals and organisations for their contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development.

The 2025 edition, held in commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day on Aug. 20, highlighted compassion, service, and the pursuit of human dignity, recognising those who have made lasting impacts through community development, philanthropy, and social responsibility. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Delta govt., REA sign MoU to drive renewable energy
General News

Delta govt., REA sign MoU to drive renewable energy

By Constance Athekame

The Delta Government on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to expand electricity access in underserved communities and boost renewable energy adoption.

The agreement was signed in Abuja during the REA State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Delta, themed “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and Inclusive Access”.

Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori, who signed on behalf of the state, reaffirmed Delta’s readiness to partner with the agency on impactful energy programmes.

“We view these programmes not only as energy access initiatives, but as powerful tools for inclusive economic growth, enterprise development, and rural transformation.

“Access to renewable energy is a cornerstone for unlocking productivity, attracting investments, and improving the livelihoods of our people, particularly in communities that have long been underserved,” he said.

The governor said the state would leverage the partnership to accelerate the delivery of energy solutions in line with its Medium-Term Development Plan (2024–2027) and MORE Agenda.

He noted that renewable energy had become a global driver of growth, citing the International Energy Agency’s 2024 report, which showed that renewables now account for 90 per cent of global power capacity.

“Delta has already enacted the State Energy Power Sector Law 2024 to address electricity challenges, improve access, boost investor confidence, and promote sustainable energy development,” he said.

Oborevwori added that the state had established an 8.5-megawatt independent power plant in Asaba to power government institutions, with plans to replicate the model in tertiary institutions.

He also disclosed that the government had invested heavily in rural electrification projects aimed at rehabilitating weak networks, extending coverage to unserved communities, and deploying solar mini-grids, solar farms, and hybrid systems in rural and coastal areas.

“The goal is to widen access to energy assets for both urban and rural communities through renewable solutions. Delta is irrevocably committed to expanding investments in the energy sector,” he assured.

The governor commended the World Bank, REA, renewable energy service providers, and investors for supporting the initiative, pledging the state’s readiness to collaborate on viable projects.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of REA, Mr Abba Aliyu, said off-grid electrification in Delta could attract 158 million dollars in investments, add 2.9 billion dollars annually to Nigeria’s GDP, and create over 31,000 jobs in the state.

He said REA had identified 471 potential mini-grid sites in Delta, with Ndokwa East Local Government Area alone accounting for 83 locations.

“These sites have the potential to power over 386,000 people and 120,000 buildings across the state. With an average of 255 connections per village, Delta is highly attractive for mini-grid investments,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Frank Nwaebo, Director of Renewable Energy at the Delta Ministry of Energy, said the state had strong solar potential, with an annual average solar radiance of 4.53 kilowatts per hour, the highest in the South-South.

He said rising fossil fuel prices had made diversification urgent, stressing that Delta’s Renewable Energy Policy Roadmap (2023–2028) was designed to guide the transition to clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. (NAN)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Kevin Okunzuwa

TICAD9: Tinubu sets bn trade, investment target
General News

TICAD9: Tinubu sets $1bn trade, investment target

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria’s participation in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is anchored on a bold $1 billion trade and investment goal.

Leading Nigeria’s high-powered delegation to the conference in Yokohama, Japan, Tinubu said the visit seeks to drive green innovation, foster industrial growth, and reinforce Nigeria as West Africa’s gateway.

In a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s engagement at TICAD9 is strategic and deliberate, rather than ceremonial.

The President stated: “At #TICAD9, themed ‘Co-create innovative solutions with Africa,’ Nigeria comes with clarity of purpose.

“Our participation aims to unlock over $1 billion in trade and investment, advance green innovation, expand opportunities for youth, and position Nigeria as West Africa’s hub.”

He described TICAD9 as a platform for long-term partnerships, built on innovation, trust, and talent.

“This summit is our launchpad for lasting development and global collaboration, anchored on technology, trust, and talent,” Tinubu added.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s development, Tinubu declared that the nation is prepared to lead from the front.

“Nigeria will lead, and Africa will rise,” he affirmed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that TICAD9 is jointly organised by Japan and development partners, bringing together African leaders, investors, and multilateral institutions.

The summit seeks to foster sustainable economic growth across Africa and strengthen cross-continental partnerships.

Tinubu’s presence marks his first official visit to Japan since taking office in May 2023, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to deeper Japan-Africa economic relations.

His attendance further signals Nigeria’s readiness to attract significant private sector investment and global cooperation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG boosts revenue with mining marshals – Onoja
General News

FG boosts revenue with mining marshals – Onoja

By Naomi Sharang

Mr Attah Onoja, Commander of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, says revenue from the mining sector rose from N6 billion to over N38 billion within one year of the unit’s establishment.

Onoja said the Mining Marshals, set up to curb illegal mining, had made steady progress in sanitising the sector.

He disclosed this at a media parley and workshop organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The workshop was themed “The Fight Against Illegal Mining: Role of the Media”.

He said the efforts of the mining marshals in addressing illegal mining activities across the country have led to a significant increase in revenues accruing from the mining sector.

Onoja, while urging the media to join in the fight against illegal mining, cautioned against biased or compromised reportage.

He added that illegal mining cartels were sponsoring what he called “rogue journalism” to discredit enforcement efforts.

“We will not cave to any blackmail designed to weaken our resolve. Illegal mining cannot be defeated by enforcement agencies alone, and this is why we are calling on the media to be partners in this fight,” Onoja said.

He said that the marshals, an enforcement arm of the NSCDC had dismantled illegal camps, prosecuted offenders, and restored order in volatile mining corridors since their creation under the Tinubu administration.

While admitting challenges such as entrenched interests and inadequate logistics, Onoja insisted the campaign was crucial to national survival.

“Our message is clear: Nigeria’s mineral wealth belongs to all Nigerians, not to be plundered by a few,” he said.

The Commissioner of Police, FCT, Mr Ajao Adewale, revealed that illegal mining has become a powerful cartel-driven enterprise bankrolled by influential Nigerians.

“This is fueling banditry and costing the country an estimated $9 billion (N13.7 trillion) annually.

Adewale described illegal mining as one of Nigeria’s most dangerous national security threats.

“The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) cited that Nigeria loses up to 9 billion dollars (N13.7 Trillion Naira) annually to illegal mining/gold smuggling in Nigeria.

“Illegal mining is not just a mere economic crime; it fuels insecurity, degrades our environment, undermines lawful investment, and robs our nation of vital resources.”

He listed Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Niger, Kwara, Osun and parts of the FCT as hotspots of illegal mining.

Adewale noted that over 72 suspects had been arrested in Abuja alone between 2023 and 2024 for illegal mining activities.

He stressed that without collaboration between security agencies and the media, the cartels would continue to thrive.

On his part, National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr Dele Ayanleke, warned that illegal mining was sustained by corruption, poverty and weak governance.

“From child labour in Nasarawa’s lithium fields to mercury poisoning in Zamfara’s gold sites, the costs are severe,” Ayanleke said.

“Illegal mining undermines legitimate investors, destroys communities, and fuels insecurity. Only sustained attention, especially from the media can help dismantle these cartels.”

On her part, the Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, urged journalists to take the fight beyond ordinary reportage by conducting investigative journalism that exposes financiers, amplifies community voices and pressures policymakers.

“As gatekeepers of truth, we must investigate, expose, and educate the public on the devastating effects of illegal mining,” she said.

Ike assured that the NUJ would continue to champion, amplify the voices of affected communities, ensuring that their stories and struggles are heard nationwide.(NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

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