NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
UNGA: Nigeria seeks stronger global partnership for Africa against terrorism
Foreign

UNGA: Nigeria seeks stronger global partnership for Africa against terrorism

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By Cecilia Ologunagba

The National Security Adviser of Nigeria, Nuhu Ribadu has called for a stronger partnership with the global community against terrorism in Africa.

Ribadu made the call at the opening of the Preparatory Ministerial-Level Meeting of African Member States on the 2024 African Counter-Terrorism Summit, with the theme “ Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Institutional Building in Adress the Evolving Threat of Terrorism in Africa.’’

The UN correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting held in New York on the sidelines of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly was to discuss the 2024 Africa Counter-Terrorism Summit slated for Nigeria in April 2024.

“For terrorism to be defeated, we need to see the development of new and strengthened partnerships, both between African member states and between Africa and the rest of the international community, to tackle the threat of terrorism and violent extremism.

“It is in this spirit, that Nigeria and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) will co-organise the African Counter Terrorism Summit.

“Nigeria is committed to ensuring that the Summit is a success and encourages you to ensure that your leaders are present in Abuja from April 23 to 24, 2024.

“The government looks forward to welcoming you to this important event that will help shape an African-led and African-owned narrative in combating terrorism,’’ he said.

According to him, Nigeria has remained committed to strengthening the rule of law to bring terrorists to justice.

The NSA said that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022 had enabled the establishment of two critical institutions, the National Counter Terrorism Centre and the Nigerian Sanctions Committee in Nigeria.

“With partnership from specialised UN agencies and international partners, we continue to strengthen our criminal justice provisions and judicial frameworks to secure the conviction of terrorism offenders.

“The hosting of this strategic event by Nigeria provides an opportunity for us to share our lessons learnt and wealth of Counter-Terrorism experience with other Member States, especially those dealing with the menace of terrorism on a daily basis.

“Terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism pose a persistent and evolving threat to international peace and security.

“The collaborative efforts to combat terrorism must be based on extant regional strategies, coordination mechanisms, and information sharing platforms,’’ he said.

The NSA said it was imperative that the continent strengthen its regional security apparatus by enhancing intelligence capacities, improving border control measures, and investing in the training and equipping of our security forces.

“Additionally, we must focus on building robust legal frameworks that enable effective prosecution of terrorist suspects while ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law.

“There is also the need to strengthen our institutions to better address the root causes of terrorism.

“Investment in education, job creation, and community development programmes will help to insulate our societies from the influence of extremist ideologies.

“I would also like to emphasise the importance of international cooperation and partnership in our regional fight against terrorism in Africa.

“We therefore call upon our global partners, particularly UNOCT to provide the necessary support to strengthen our capacity to counter terrorism effectively,’’ he said.

In preparing for the Summit, Ribadu said the Member States would embrace an inclusive approach, ensuring the participation of all stakeholders, including regional organisations, civil society groups, the private sector, and international partners.

He said their expertise and perspectives would contribute to the success of the African Counter-Terrorism Summit, which will produce tangible outcomes and concrete recommendations that will guide our future endeavours in the fight against terrorism.

(L-R) Mr Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism; UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and the National Security Adviser of Nigeria, Nuhu Ribadu at the opening of Preparatory Ministerial-Level Meeting of African Member States on the 2024 African Counter-Terrorism Summit in New York.

In her remarks, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Ms Amina Mohammed said the UN had launched a joint appeal for counterterrorism in Africa.

Mohammed said that the UN had launched an appeal to mobilise resources for 10 inter-agency flagship initiatives to advance multilateral Action in support of the global counterterrorism strategy across the continent.

The UN chief said that more was needed, noting that Africa needs more resources, strategic and genuine partnerships, and structured support.

“I hope we can leverage the upcoming summit to scale up international regional and sub-regional support for the continent.

“I hope we can commit to putting and seeing gender-responsive strategies at the centre of our preventive strategies,’’ she said.

Also speaking, Amb. Bankole Adeoye, Africa Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, urged the participants to review the prevailing terrorism threat scenarios in Africa and brainstorm potential solutions.

“Terrorism is alien to Africa, to our culture to our people, but it is threatening our very existence.’’

He said until the continent defects terrorism, it would be difficult to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. (NAN)

 

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(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

EU registered increase in asylum applications in June 2023
General News

EU registered increase in asylum applications in June 2023

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European Union states received 25 per cent more asylum applications in June 2023 compared with June 2022, the EU’s statistics agency Eurostat said on Friday.

In June, 83,385 people applied for international protection in one of the bloc’s 27 member states.

The figure is however lower than in autumn 2022, when around 100,000 monthly application were filed in the EU, according to Eurostat data.

In line with previous months, Syrians were the largest group of people seeking protection in the EU in June 2023, followed by Afghans, Venezuelans and Colombians.

Germany, Spain, France and Italy together received around 75 per cent of all asylum applications in June 2023.

Compared to the population of each EU country, Cyprus received the highest rate of applicants, followed by Austria, Eurostat said. (dpa/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ummul Idris/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Nigerian army buries former Defence Spokesman, Onyeuko
Defence/Security

Nigerian army buries former Defence Spokesman, Onyeuko

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army on Friday, buried the former Director of Defence Media Operations, Late retired Maj.-Gen. Bernard Onyeuko, who died on Aug. 26, few weeks after his retirement from active service.

Onyeuko, a member of the 38 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), was until his retirement the Director of Procurement at the Defence Headquarters.

He was of the Ordnance Corps and served in various capacity in the Nigerian army in Kaduna, Maiduguri, Enugu, Jos, Lagos and Abuja as well as in ECOMOG and United Nation Peace Keeping Operation in Morocco.

Speaking at the funeral, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, who was the deceased course mate, described the late senior officer as a saint sent from heaven to touch lives on earth and a dedicated military officer.

He urged the the wife and children as well as other family members to take solace in the fact that the deceased retired general had a wonderful career in the military with great impact.

“He remains an example to all of us, how to live our lives, how to appreciate one another, and how to give your all in service to God and humanity.

“He made his mark and we are proud of him. I’m proud of the kind of life he lived and I think that is wonderful, and not the other way around when people feel so bad about an individual,” he said.

Musa assured the family of the continuous support of the military to ensure that they are comforted.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said the demise of Gen. Onyeuko should be seen as one of the moments of reflection and time to strengthen friendship and comradeship.

Lagbaja assured the family that the army would stand by them in their grief and give them the necessary support.

He described the late Onyeuko as a fine and dedicated senior officer whose footprints would remain indelible in the Nigerian army having served in different capacities meritoriously.

On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, represented by the Chief of Administration (Navy), Rear Adm. Kennedy Ezete, extended the condolences of the navy to Nigerian Army and the family.

Ogalla said it was painful that Onyeuko had to die just when he should have time for his family and himself shortly after retirement.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the remains of the general was buried at the National Military Cemetery after the funeral service at the Holy Family Catholic Church, NAF Base, Asokoro.

It was well attended by principal staff officers from defence and army headquarters as well as members of the 38 Regular Course. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Maharazu Ahmed

Over 81,000 people enter Ethiopia from Sudan -UN
General News

Over 81,000 people enter Ethiopia from Sudan -UN

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Addis Ababa, Sept. 22, 2023 (Xinhua/NAN) The number of people arriving in Ethiopia due to the conflict in Sudan has reached 81,095, according to the UN migration agency.

As of Sept. 16, a total of 81,095 crossings had been made by returnees, refugees and asylum seekers from conflict-affected Sudan to its neighbour, Ethiopia, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said.

Of the total number of crossings, 37,515 are Ethiopian nationals, 28,177 are Sudanese nationals, and the remaining 15,403 are third-country nationals, the IOM said.

The crossings started on April 21 shortly after the onset of the conflict in Sudan, mainly through the Metema and Kurmuk Ethiopia-Sudan border entry points, the United Nations had previously said.

Sudan has been witnessing clashes between the country’s armed forces and the paramilitary forces in the capital of Khartoum and other areas since April 15. (Xinhua/NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Ummul Idris/Buhari Bolaji

EFCC arrests 6 suspected internet fraudsters in Bauchi.
General News

EFCC arrests 6 suspected internet fraudsters in Bauchi.

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested six suspected internet fraudsters in Bauchi.

Its Spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren said in a statement in Abuja

According to  him, the suspects are  Okeychuku Ani, Rousham Danjuma, Iloabuchi Sideofor, Emmanuel Adibeh, Onyedikachi Iwanze and Elijah Simon.

“ They were arrested on Saturday, September 16, 2023 in their hideout at old Government Reservation Area, GRA, Bauchi, Bauchi State.

“Their arrest was based on actionable intelligence on their suspected involvement in internet- related offences.

“They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

EFCC warns real estate agents against money laundering
Defence/Security

EFCC warns real estate agents against money laundering

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged Real Estate agents to join hands with the Commission in the fight against corruption and avoid being used as conduit for money laundering.

Its Spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren said in a statement in Abuja

He said that the Commander of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Commission, Michael Nzekwe  made the call  when he received executive members of the Kwara Chapter of Estate Rent and Commission Agent Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN)

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the association was led on the visit to the commission by its Chairman, Mr Adewole Onibokun.

Nzekwe said his Command was determined to fight financial crime through enforcement of all regulations with a view to curtailing sharp practices and money laundering especially in the real estate sector.

“Real estate is an avenue through which corrupt Nigerians launder proceeds of crime.

“I was delighted when I got your letter that you would be coming on a courtesy visit because I know the visit will offer us the opportunity to discuss how we can deal with this issue,” he said.

Nzekwe described the association as one of the critical stakeholders in the fight against corruption and admonished members to live above board.

He urged them to pay serious attention to the provisions of the new Money Laundering Act, 2022 (as amended) and the Advance Fee Fraud Act and other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

He called on them to adequately acquaint themselves with the laws and regulations guiding the real estate sector particularly Section 3 of the AFF Act, 2006.

According to him, the Act stated that “A person who, being the occupier or is concerned in the management of any premises, causes or knowingly permits the premises to be used for any purpose which constitutes an offence under this Act commits an offence

“And, is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not more than 15 years and not less than five years without the option of a fine.”

He said this provision of the law placed serious responsibilities on Real Estate Agents to make “KYC” (Know Your Customer) a precondition in dealing with customers so as to be free of liabilities in case of any eventuality.

He also called on members of the association to ensure compliance with the regulation requiring registration and certification of their businesses by the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML).

He urged them to report suspicious transactions to the appropriate agency as required by the law.

Earlier, the Association’s Chairman commended  the giant strides of the Ilorin Zonal Command in fighting corruption.

Onibokun expressed  the willingness of his members to assist the Commission in fighting money laundering and other financial crimes in the real estate sector.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Benue Govt promises to fix education sector
Education

Benue Govt promises to fix education sector

318 total views today

By Bridget Ikyado

The Benue Government has given assurance that schools in the state would be repositioned to provide qualitative education in line with global standard.

The Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Rev. Frederick Ikyaan, gave the assurance during an inspection visit to Government College Makurdi, on Thursday.

According to him, government will bringing bringing about the desired changes in the education sector for the benefit of the state and the country.

“If the education sector is fixed, everything else would work perfectly,” he added, and solicited the support of teachers and other stakeholders in the task ahead.

The commissioner pledged to sustain visits to schools in the state “until they are well positioned to impart qualitative education to the public”.

“The best way to improve the quality of education is through effective inspection and supervision, and I will continue to do so,” Ikyaan added.

The commissioner advised teachers to remain resilient as they have critical roles to play in shaping the society and humanity.

He explained that the inspection visit was to have first hand knowledge of the condition of the school and teachers.

Ikyaan expressed dismay at the level of infrastructure decay in the exchnage school which houses 1,006 students.

He pledged government support to reinvigorate and renovate the school facilities, and all other public schools in the state.

“The reports given are true reflections of what I have seen, the school has to be raised fglobal present deplorable state to a better form.

“We cannot have such a system in the globally world and expect the best from the students,” Ikyaan added.

Earlier, the Principal of the school, Mrs Aumbur Agena, appreciated the commissioner for taking time to embark on assessment of facilities in the state.

She said the exchange school has students from 19 nothern states, and urged the state government to respond speedily to the needs of the students in terms of facilities and infrastructure.

The principal said on their part, they have been trying their best to ensure staff welfare and meet the needs of the students.(NAN) BTT/MZA

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Tinubu desirous of turning Nigeria’s youth population into dividends – Shettima
Metro

Tinubu desirous of turning Nigeria’s youth population into dividends – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has expressed the determination of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to turn the country’s anticipated demographic bulge into dividends.

Shettima stated this in his keynote address at the opening of a two-day retreat for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly (NASS) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, on Friday.

He said the unrivalled democratic credentials of Tinubu, which include legislative experience would continue to rub off on the entrenched and valuable governance style of the President.

“One out of every four black man is a Nigerian. The trajectory of global growth is facing Africa and Nigeria will make or mar that transition. By 2050, Nigeria will be the third most populous nation on earth.

“Our population will hit 440 million and by the end of the century, Nigeria will be the most populous nation on earth. And what are we going to do with the anticipated demographic bulge?.

“This is a blessed nation. We can change the anticipated demographic bulge into demographic dividends. I believe with the quality of leadership we have it will not turn into a democratic disaster that will consume all of us.”

The vice president said that Nigeria was the representative of the Blackman, saying “that is the burden we all carry, if Nigeria fails, the Blackman has failed. Let us make Nigeria work.”

Earlier, the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, noted that the true test of government policies and programmes was the ability to improve the lives and circumstances of citizens in measurable ways.

“We have gathered here in lovely Akwa Ibom State for the purpose of improving our individual and shared ability to be better stewards of the mandate we are given. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Ifeyinwa Omowole

Shettima assures fraternal bond between executive, legislature
Politics

Shettima assures fraternal bond between executive, legislature

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of continued fraternal bond between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

Shettima gave the assurance when he declared open a two-day retreat for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly (NASS) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom on Friday.

The vice president said that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.

Shettima also assured the leadership of the National Assembly of Tinubu’s avowed commitment to entrenching democratic ideals and values through collaborative partnership with all arms of government.

He said the unrivalled democratic credentials of Tinubu, which include legislative experience, would continue to rub off on his governance style.

This, he said especially as it borders on respect of the rule of law, adherence to separation of powers as well as deference for constitutional rights.

Shettima described the composition of the Federal Government as well as the leadership of the National Assembly as historical, unique and a major pathway to Nigeria’s unprecedented development.

This, he said, was more so that the expectations of Nigerians would be met regardless of the present challenges.

“For the first time in our history, all the elected heads of our branches of government are produced by the hallowed halls of the National Assembly.

“For the first time in our history, the heart of the executive branch of our government is serviced by the alumni of the National Assembly.

“Both the Chief of Staff and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President are proud alumni of the National Assembly. The Secretary to the Federal Government is one of us.

“We cannot, therefore, afford to go to war. Not because we are going to overlook each other’s transgressions, but because you are going to engage with those who know the gravity of your work and would never take you for granted.”

Standing from left; Director-General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, at the opening of a two-day retreat for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, on Friday.

He said given the composition of the National Assembly, it has become emphatic that ranks are closed in the bid to give unprecedented service delivery and democratic pact to the Nigerian people.

“There’s no place in this country where you can find a fraternal bond as enduring as the ones that bind the members of the National Assembly.

“From converging on Abuja to water the dreams, debate the needs, and mitigate the fears of this diverse nation, we have forged friendships that defy the stereotypes of our differences.

“Term after term, election after election, old and new members return and exit, but the burden of managing a diverse nation has ensured that we cannot afford to tread the path of divisions.”

He further reiterated the need for national cohesion, saying it has become non-negotiable if the country’s potential must be fully harnessed and tapped for prosperity and generality of all Nigerians.

“You have a President and a Vice President who are one of you and recognise the sacrifices you make.

“President Tinubu has, with utter certainty, reassured us that we are not in government to go to war with the National Assembly. We are here to collaborate and march towards shared values.

“Governance is a collective responsibility, not a personal endeavour. Our most significant achievements were attained through cooperation and harmony.

“This is what we seek from you because we are brothers and sisters in pursuit of a country that serves all of us.

Shettima described the NASS as a complete spectrum of human experience.

“This is where you will witness eloquent testimonies of your colleagues in defence of reason.

“This is where you will witness profound debates that will dismantle your age-long assumptions. But, in the end, you will realize we are all bound by our fidelity to the ideals of democracy.”

Earlier, President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, said that the retreat was the beginning of the rejuvenation and a time of reflection and deliberate planning that would determine the direction of legislative efforts.

“We have a huge responsibility as the National Assembly leaders, as the guardians of democracy, it is our responsibility to set the legislative agenda, make sure that our venerable institution runs smoothly.

“Our neighbours are watching us, and they turn to us for leadership and action. We therefore have a chance to establish a strong future direction during this retreat, which is more than just a gathering of leaders.”

Also, the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, thanked Tinubu for his continued support and deepened respect for legislative independence and harmony.

He said the institute remained committed to working with the 10th NASS in improving legislative governance.

Notable guests at the event include Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, former Senate Presidents Ayim Pius Ayim, David Mark, Ken Nnamani and Ahmed Lawan.

Others were the Head of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Germany, Mr Johnnes Lehne and all Principal leaders of the National Assembly. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

2023 Kogi guber poll ‘ll be most peaceful ever -Yahaya Bello
General News

2023 Kogi guber poll ‘ll be most peaceful ever -Yahaya Bello

106 total views today
By Chioma Ugboma
Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi on Friday assured  that  the state’s governorship election billed for Nov. 11 would be the most peaceful ever held in the state.
Speaking at the 3rd Governor Yahaya Bello (GYB) Seminar for Nigeria’s Political and Crime Correspondents/Editors in Abuja, the governor said that the election would also be free and fair.
On the allegations and counter allegations regarding destruction of campaign offices in the state, the governor said  the APC candidate, Alhaji Usman Ododo, remained  the most popular and loved and so would not engage in any act that might mar the polls.
“Ododo has endeared himself to the  people of Kogi. How can you be the most popular candidate, positioned to win and still instigate violence?”
He said that Ododo, whom mischievous opposition has alleged is his cousin, emerged as APC candidate based on merit.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that some opposition parties had claimed that Ododo emerged as the APC candidate because he is Bello’s cousin.
The governor maintained that he had  no blood relationship with the APC governorship candidate in the state,  Alhaji Usman Ododo.

Bello said that  Ododo emerged overwhelmingly in a free and fair primaries of the APC.

“Ododo and I may come from the same place  but we do not share blood relationship. He is a very compassionate, hardworking and competent fellow and those qualities spoke for him at the primaries.”
Bello explained that part of his administration’s focus was to do away with  ethnic  sentiments that had set the state backwards before his emergence.
“Ethnic sentiments has set Kogi backward for 19 years and we must break away from that for competence.
“My administration has changed the narrative of ethnicity and have been appointing and working with competent people against choosing people by their tribe.
“We raise people from different backgrounds,  irrespective of their senatorial zones.”
Earlier, the Kogi Commissioner for Information, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, said no blood would be shed because of an election.
Fanwo said that security remained key to the state, and therefore it would not be distracted from the part of peace.  (NAN) (www.nannrws.ng)
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Edited by Ifeyinwa Omowole
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