NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG to repatriate 15,000 Nigerians stranded abroad
Metro

FG to repatriate 15,000 Nigerians stranded abroad

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By Jacinta Nwachukwu

The Federal Government says discussions are ongoing on how 15,000 Nigerians stranded in Cameroon, Niger, Chad and other parts of the world will be returned to Nigeria in safety and dignity.

Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), disclosed this at a media briefing on Friday in Abuja.

Ahmed revealed that no fewer than six million people are displaced in Nigeria while thousands of refugees are living elsewhere across the world.

“We have 15,000 Nigerians that want to return to the country voluntarily and we also have not less than 100,000 foreigners living in this country as refugees.

“All these are the responsibilities of the commission, to give them support,” he said.

While reiterating government’s tireless efforts to ensure safe return of the displaced persons, Ahmed thanked President Bola Tinubu for the support given to the commission and the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

The  NCFRMI boss also disclosed that Nigeria would be hosting the first thematic meeting under its chairmanship of the Rabat Process with more than 100 delegates from the 57 partner countries in attendance.

It would be recalled that Nigeria assumed chairmanship of the Rabat Process – a Euro-African dialogue on migration and development – in January, 2025.

Ahmed said that the meeting, scheduled for May 13 and May 14, themed, “Youth, Innovation and Education: Driving the Future of Migration”, would pave the way for bilateral discussions between Nigeria and other countries, leading to better migration governance

“Membership in these platforms provides opportunities for knowledge transfer and better migration management.

“Nigeria’s leadership in the Rabat Process is seen as an advantage, despite its being a one-year term,” he added.

The federal commissioner also outlined the challenges in managing migration, including the need for adequate advocacy to inform younger generations about legal migration pathways.

“There is a need to educate migrants about the consequences of irregular migration, including negative outcomes.

“The focus should be on advocating for legal migration pathways to reduce the number of irregular migrants.

“Regular migration involves moving through legal channels, while irregular migration often involves dangerous and illegal methods.

“Irregular migration can lead to hardship and danger, with many migrants unable to return to their home country,” he said

Ahmed, therefore, called for better coordination and support from various stakeholders, including the media to enhance migration governance. (NAN)

Edited by Bukola Adeoye/ Rotimi Ijikanmi

CEFSAR cautions Nigerians against consuming GMO food
Science & Tech

CEFSAR cautions Nigerians against consuming GMO food

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By Ikenna Osuoha

Prof. Qrisstuberg Amua, the Executive Director, Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR), says that Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) induced foods or grains are harmful to health.

Amua said this during a news conference in Abuja on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that GMOs are plants, animals, or microbes that have had their DNA changed using genetic engineering techniques to achieve desired outcomes.

Such outcomes could be improved shelf life, increased yield or pest resistance.

Amua alleged that GMOs had the potential of causing colon cancers.

“Many of the GMO-induced foods don’t digest and as such can cause colon cancer,” he said.

The don, who called for outright rejection of GMOs, said it could alter human’s natural features.

“It can cause impotency, it can cause infertility for both men and women,’’ he said.

He advocated strong political will to resist the proliferation of GMOs in the country even as he commended some African countries for rejecting it.

Amua dismissed insinuations that GMOs could guarantee food security, saying that it was disastrous and genocidal.

Also Speaking, the Deputy Director, CEFSAR, Dr Segun Adebayo, urged the media to rise to the occasion in the fight against GMOs.

Adebayo said it was time to interrogate claims about GMOs which were presented as facts.

According to him, it is time for us to begin to do our own research and say no to some of the imported ideas that tend to enable our self-destruction.

He explained that GMOs were not regenerative and therefore antithetical to the natural law of regeneration.

Adebayo warned against the complicity of some government officials who promote GMOs for whatever reason. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community
Defence/Security

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla has inaugurated an integrated solar-powered motorised industrial borehole at Bayan Waya Community in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger.

Speaking at the event on Thursday, Ogalla said the water project was one of his Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects (SIQIP) being executed in communities across the country.

He said the borehole was constructed with 60,000 litres capacity overhead water tank, provision of water points, perimeter fencing as well as provision of solar lighting units around the perimeter of the site.

He was represented at the event by the Chief of Naval Transformation, Rear Adm. Monday Unurhiere.

According to him, the SIQIP is to facilitate the attainment of the re-invigorated Nigerian Navy’s Civil Military Cooperation’s mandate and to contribute to ongoing Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The CNS stated that the projects were avenues for the Nigerian Navy to honor its accomplished senior officers and demonstrate that beyond physically securing lives and properties, it was committed to serving the interests of Nigerians through other ways.

“Today’s commissioning of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project undertaken by an illustrious son of Kontagora, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim is yet another watershed in the Nigerian Navy civil-military cooperation annals.

“Not only do these projects resonate with the vision of President Bola Tinubu, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, it aptly captures the essence for the quick impact projects as conceived by the CNS.

“Indeed, Rear Adm. Ibrahim’s choice to put smiles on the faces of the community typifies Maya Angelou’s avowal that kindness takes courage.

“We therefore salute the senior officer’s mettle and urge him on to more humanitarian endeavors with the novelist Robin Sharma’s words that ‘Each person who delivers kindness stays with us forever’.

“These projects will enhance the quality of lives in this community, I believe that the senior officer and indeed the Nigerian Navy will certainly not be hurriedly forgotten,” he said.

The CNS urged the beneficiaries to use the facilities responsibly so it will endure.

He also appealed to the community and Niger State at large to continue to, in keeping with the tenets of civil-military cooperation, collaborate with the Navy, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to eliminate threats to their collective well-being.

In his remarks, Gov. Umaru Bago, represented by the Commissioner for Home Land Security, Retired Brig.-Gen. Bello Mohammed, appreciated the navy for the project.

Bago described the project as a significant and impactful initiative of the navy that reflected a strong and commendable sense of national service and commitment to community development.

He said the water project was not just a structure, but a lifeline, adding that it was a testimony to what is possible when security agencies go beyond their traditional mandates to invest in human capital and community welfare.

“Water is essential to life. It is the bedrock of food security, public health, sanitation, and dignity.

“This borehole will undoubtedly alleviate the suffering of the people of Bayan Waya and transform daily life, particularly for women, children, and farmers.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I want to emphasise the importance of community ownership and maintenance.

“This project, which is now a part of your community, should be guarded jealously, maintained regularly, and used responsibly,” he said.

The project facilitator, who is the Chief of Naval Safety and Standard, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim, said the Nigerian Navy has contributed in solving some of the welfare needs of communities across the country.

Ibrahim said the project in Kontagora Emirate marked another significant milestone in the navy’s Civil-Military Relations commitment to communities in Nigeria.

“It is worthy to note that this is one of several projects executed as part of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project across the country.

“Bayan Waya community is now a proud beneficiary of the CNS Special Intervention Quick Impact Project with the commissioning of this Integrated Motorised Solar Powered Industrial Borehole with 60,000 litres capacity overhead Tank,” he said.

The project Inauguration event was graced by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammed Barau Mu’azu II, Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora- Represented by Magayaki of Kontagora, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed.

Also at the ceremony is the Member Representing Kotongora 1 Constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly, Umar Sani. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

FG, World Bank launch 0m irrigation, power project
Agriculture

FG, World Bank launch $500m irrigation, power project

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By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has inaugurated the Steering Committee for the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project aimed to enhance national food security, water management, and climate resilience.

The project, valued at $500 million and supported by the World Bank, aims to deliver large-scale multi-purpose infrastructure for irrigation and hydropower generation.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, who chairs the Steering Committee said the initiative aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

According to the minister, the SPIN project builds on the success of the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, which helped rehabilitate about 32,000 hectares of irrigation schemes and empowered Water Users Associations (WUAs) across the country.

“Nigeria is committed to improving its food, water, and energy security.

“Through this project, we are targeting 500,000 hectares of irrigated agriculture, 30 Gigawatts of sustainable energy, and strengthened resilience to floods, droughts, and climate change.

“The project consists of four key components: Institutional Strengthening, Irrigation Modernisation, Dam Safety and Operational Improvements, and Effective Project Management.

“It will be implemented under two models; Model 1, which focuses on federal government-managed schemes in collaboration with interested states, and Model 2, which supports state-owned irrigation schemes”.

According to him, out of the 34 states that expressed interest in participating in the project, 27 pledged to meet the readiness criteria, and 17 states have been confirmed as qualified.

He said these states satisfied three key requirements: enacting a WUA law at the state level, allocating budgetary provisions for WUA operations and maintenance, and establishing counterpart funding.

The minister commended the SPIN Interim Team for field assessments and preparing key documents, including the Project Appraisal, Implementation Manual, and 18-month work plan.

He noted that the steering committee, composed of Ministers from relevant sectors and Commissioners from participating states, would serve as the apex policy and decision-making body for the project.

Earlier, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, described the SPIN project as timely, noting that it would build on the achievements of the TRIMING initiative to further transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Kyari commended the World Bank for its continued support towards sustainable development across various sectors, but emphasised the need to place greater focus on measuring concrete outcomes.

“In every programme we implement, whether within our ministries or in partnership with international stakeholders, we must ask a fundamental question: What specific results will this project deliver?

“In the case of agricultural production, what measurable outcomes are we targeting? Clarity on such goals ensures that our efforts are meaningful and result-driven.

“While our rapidly growing population is often viewed as a burden, I see it as a powerful opportunity.

“With strategic planning and the right investments, this population can become a major force for innovation and economic growth. Let us not forget that Nigeria remains one of the fastest-growing economies in the world”.

The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, who is the co-chairman reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable energy through hydropower, outlining it as key to achieving energy and food security.

Adelabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Mahmadu Mamman, said the initiative was a major step towards optimising the country’s water resources for long-term development.

He noted that the ministry of power, as a key implementing partner, was responsible for preparing project memos aimed at attracting private sector investment into hydropower development.

“This aligns with the broader national vision that sees energy not just as a commodity, but as the foundation for growth and progress,” he said.

The minister also underscored the role of hydropower in Nigeria’s energy transition, citing its technical advantages such as grid stability, efficiency, and its synergy with other renewable sources like solar and wind.

He urged members of the committee to remain committed to the project’s success, assuring them of the ministry’s readiness to address any challenges that may arise.

SPIN Project Manager, Mr Ipinlaye Olaiya, said the World Bank–International Development Association (IDA) intervention will enhance dam safety and support hydropower and irrigation development in selected areas.

According to him, Nigeria has set a target of 500,000 hectares for irrigated agriculture, underscoring the need for states to support the achievement of this goal.

He urged states to enact Water Users Association (WUA) laws to enable their participation in the project’s implementation.

The World Bank Task Team Leader for the SPIN project, Mr Chinedu Umolu, praised the federal government for its strong commitment to the project’s implementation.

He outlined the leadership shown by the government and its partner ministries as a clear sign of the dedication needed to drive the project to success.

“With this level of commitment, I am confident the federal government will achieve the objectives of the SPIN project,” he said.

Umolu noted that the project team is now fully launched and with sustained support from the ministries, the foundation for progress is in place.

He urged all stakeholders to match the government’s efforts with action to ensure nationwide impact on power and irrigation infrastructure.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inaugural meeting fulfils a statutory requirement for activating the World Bank financing arrangement.

The SPIN project is expected to boost Nigeria’s irrigation capacity, ensure dam safety, and revitalise rural economies in line with the country’s long-term development goals. (NAN)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

2025 Hajj: Committee inspects pilgrims feeding facilities
Religious

2025 Hajj: Committee inspects pilgrims feeding facilities

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By Deji Abdulwahab

The Madina feeding committee, headed by Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, has inspected the kitchens contracted to serve Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj operation.
This is contained in a statement by Suwaiba Ahmed, the Information Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), on Friday in Abuja.
Ahmed noted that the committee conducted the NAHCON Advance Team, led by the Madina Coordinator, Alhaji Abdulkadir Oloyin, round the seven kitchens contracted for the Hajj feeding operation.
She said that the inspection was to ascertain their readiness of caterers to serve Nigerian pilgrims, adding that the team also focused on hygiene, quality and quality of the food as well as the facilities.
The NAHCON information officer said that among the areas inspected at the facilities were the cleanliness and equipments as well as workforce in order to determine effective delivery during the Hajj operations.
She said that Oloyin had met with the contractors and raised the issue of food packaging, where he said some of the caterers use sub-standard plastic containers.
“The meeting agreed on a particular packaging to be used uniformly by all the caterers.
“Oloyin also reiterated the importance of the following; the menu given to them by NAHCON as well as delivering the food to the pilgrims’ accommodation on time, saying there will be consequences on violators.
“Meanwhile the committee in charge of accommodation is working tirelessly to ensure that everything is in place before the arrival of the first batch of Nigerian pilgrims into Saudi Arabia scheduled to start on May 9, 2025.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz
U.S. Catholic bishops, others hail Pope Leo XIV
General News

U.S. Catholic bishops, others hail Pope Leo XIV

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By Cecilia Ologunagba

U.S. bishops on Thursday hailed the election of former Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and the first pope born in the U.S.A.

Cardinals elected the newly titled Leo to the supreme pontificate with white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel signaling the closing of the conclave with the selection of the new pope.

Pope Leo appeared before hundreds of thousands of faithful and spectators in St. Peter’s Square shortly thereafter, addressing the universal church and the world for the first time as pope.

“God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail,” the pope said.

“We are all in the hands of God. Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.”

Bishop of Brooklyn, Robert Brennan, in a podcast on the Diocese of Brooklyn website, welcomed the new pope “warmly, with great love.”

“God has given us a new shepherd,” he said. “Let’s pray for him with all our hearts.

“He is a relatively young Cardinal, he gave tributes to the Augustinians, I’m a son of St. Augustine,’’ he said.

The bishop said he liked his approach of identifying with his religious order, saying, the Pope quoted St. Augustine,” with you, am a Christian, for you am a Bishop.”

Brennan also spoke about his choice of Leo, adding that he would pick a lot of the works Pope Francis did and bring a new emphasis as a missionary bishop.

Leo is a reference to Leo XIII – the last pontiff to have the name – who was head of the Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903.

Leo XIII laid the foundation for modern Catholic social thought, most famously with his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed workers’ rights and capitalism at the dawn of the industrial age.

Leo could also refer to Brother Leo, the 13th century friar, who was a great companion of St Francis of Assisi, it was claimed.

Also, Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Jeffrey Monforton wrote on X  “God bless our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV as he shares the joy of the Gospel with all the world.

“Together, let us fervently pray for Pope Leo XIV and his papal office.”

Kansas City, Kansas, Archbishop-elect Shawn McKnight wrote that the church “welcomes  our Holy Father” with “great thanksgiving.”

Similarly, the Catholic Diocese of Arundel & Brighton, England, welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Successor of St Peter and Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church.

Responding to the news, Bishop Richard Moth said: “We give thanks that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit the Cardinals have elected Pope Leo XIV.

“Pope Leo brings to the office of the Holy Father considerable experience as a bishop and pastor, including in Chulucanas.

“So, closely associated with our diocese, together with his more recent service as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

“His prayer for peace in his first words from the balcony at St Peter’s will resonate with Catholics and all people of good will.

“This is a significant moment for the Catholic Church and for the world, and we offer our prayers for the Holy Father as he begins his Pontificate.”

Also, Amb. Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as the leader of the Catholic Church.

“The WJC’s relationship with the Holy See spans decades and is grounded in a deep, ongoing commitment to interfaith dialogue.

“This partnership has centered on shared concerns such as the welfare of Jewish and Catholic communities, the fight against antisemitism and hatred, and the defence of religious freedom around the world.

“The WJC looks forward to continuing and deepening this essential dialogue under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV. At a time of global crisis, the importance of this relationship is only heightened,” he said in a statement.

Pope Leo, the first Pope from the United States of America, was born on Sept. 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois.

In 1977, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine in the province of Our Lady of Good Counsel, in Saint Louis.

On Aug. 29, 1981 he made his solemn vows. He studied at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, receiving a diploma in theology.

At the age of 27 he was sent by the Order to Rome to study canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University (Angelicum).

He received priestly ordination on June 19, 1982. He received his licentiate in 1984, and was then sent to work in the mission of Chulucanas, in Piura, Peru (1985-1986); the Diocese of Chulucanas.

In 1987, he was awarded a doctorate with the thesis: “The role of the local prior in the Order of Saint Augustine”.

In the same year he was elected director of vocations and director of the missions of the Augustinian province of “Mother of Good Counsel” of Olympia Fields, Illinois.

On Nov. 3 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, elevating him to the dignity of bishop and assigning him the titular diocese of Sufar.

He was ordained a bishop on  Dec. 12, at the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the cathedral of his diocese.

He was created and proclaimed Cardinal by Pope Francis in the Consistory of 30 September 2023, of the Deaconry of Santa Monica. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Creative sector, second largest employer in the country -Speaker
Culture & Tourism

Creative sector, second largest employer in the country -Speaker

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By Ikenna Osuoha
The Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, says the creative sector in Nigeria is the second largest employer of labour for citizens.

Abbas stated this in Abuja while declaring open public hearing on the bill for an Act to provide for Establishment of National Institute for Film and Media Technology, Ukawu, Ebonyi.

The Speaker, represented by Rep. Amos Magaji, representing Zangon Kataf/Jaba federal constituency, said the sector had the potential to create additional 2.7 million jobs.

“This indicates that the creative economy worldwide contributes over 6.1 per cent to global gross domestic product (GDP), averaging between 2 per cent and 7 per cent of national GDPs,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Bill was presented by Rep. Osi Nkemkamma, representing Ohanivo Federal Constituency, Ebonyi.

Abbas said the Bill was in line with their Legislative Agenda, re-affirming their commitment to reforming and modernising the technical education system to equip students with relevant skills to thrive in today’s economy.

He said that the skills would enable the students to contribute effectively to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Abbas reiterated the determination of the House to ensuring that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and renewable energy was mainstreamed into the curriculum of technical and vocational education in Nigeria.

He stressed the need for them not to fail the younger generation with required skills as he called for incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the training process.

“We must not be found wanting in the fulfillment of our commitments.

“We would have failed if we did not provide our children with the opportunities that they need to achieve their purposes and become fulfilled as human beings.

“The world is already running away with Artificial Intelligence.

“We cannot be left behind. Education is the bedrock of development, and the need for educational institutions that will develop the skills of our people ought to have been addressed yesterday.”

Also speaking, Rep. Fatoba Olusola, Chairman, House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, reiterated the imperatives of investing on film and media sector.

Olusola said that the film and media sector had the capacity to take the youths out of the streets and boost the economy.

Different stakeholders from the information and Media industry were present at the public hearing including the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali M. Ali, who was represented by Deputy Editor in Chief Ismail Abdulaziz.

NAN reports that the bill provides for job-specific and practical training, utilising modern methods of skill development, align with industry best practices.

It also proposes the functions and powers, staff structure, and financial provisions that demonstrated a comprehensive approach to establishing a world-class institution.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami
Sports

Runsewe commends Ogun governor for honouring Odegbami

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By Victor Okoye

The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Olusegun Runsewe, has commended Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, for honouring Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Ambassador of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Odegbami, a Nigerian football legend, was on Tuesday appointed by Abiodun, as the first-ever ‘Grand Sports Ambassador’ in the history of the state.

The role comes with a simple but challenging mandate – to supervise the evolution of a Sports Eco-system in Ogun, plus a Night-Economy during and beyond the upcoming 2025 Gateway Games.

“This is to actualise the vision of the government to put up (for the second time) the best and biggest multi-sports event in Africa (after the All-African Games).

“This will set new standards in harvesting the social, cultural and economic benefits that come with doing so,’’ he said.

Runsewe emphasised the significance of acknowledging and celebrating Nigerian sports heroes, both past and present.

He told NAN on Wednesday in Abuja that by appointing Odegbami as the Grand Ambassador, the governor had set a precedent for recognising national heroes while they were alive.

“I want to sincerely commend the governor for this initiative, which has indeed opened a new chapter in celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heroes, while they are still alive.

“Honouring sports heroes while they’re still alive allows them to appreciate the recognition and enables future generations to learn from their experiences.

“Celebrating sports achievements can foster a culture of excellence, driving sports development, inspiring young athletes, highlights the importance of sports in Nigerian culture, promoting national pride and identity,” he said.

The NGF boss noted that the governor was an administrator, who was very much concerned about the growth and development of sports at the grassroots.

He added that by honouring Odegbami, Gov. Abiodun had demonstrated a commitment to promoting sports development and celebrating Nigeria’s sporting heritage.

NAN reports that Odegbami is a renowned Nigerian footballer, who played for Shooting Stars and the Super Eagles, earning the nickname: “Mathematical” for his calculated shots and speed on the right wing.

He won the Nigerian Premier League with Shooting Stars in 1976, 1980, and 1983, and was part of the 1980 AFCON-winning team, scoring crucial goals in the tournament.

After retiring, Odegbami became a successful writer, publisher, television and radio producer, and sports administrator, founding Nigeria’s first wholly private sports show on television.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joe Idika

Airmen gets 30-room transit accommodation in Imo
Defence/Security

Airmen gets 30-room transit accommodation in Imo

222 total views today

By Peter Okolie

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, on Thursday inaugurated a block of 30-room transit accommodation for airmen of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) at Owerri, the Imo capital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the facility is located at the 211 Quick Response Group (QRG), NAF Base, Owerri.

In a speech at the event, Abubakar said the occasion marked a significant milestone in the base’s development and demonstrates commitment to enhancing personnel’s operational efficiency.

He said the project would assist to maintain highly motivated force in the fight against myriads of security challenges in the state and South East region.

“This achievements is commendable in curbing the prevailing security situation in Owerri and its environment.

“We are not oblivious of the threats posed by the activities of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), whose activities have continued to undermine peace and security in this region,” he noted.

Abubakar reaffirmed the readiness, commitment and resolve of the NAF to its constitutional mandate to defend the territorial integrity of the country as well as property and lives of citizens.

He said NAF would continue to collaborate with other security agencies to restore normalcy and stability in affected communities.

He charged those who would reside in the facility to uphold highest standards of discipline, professionalism and loyalty.

“The facility was not just in appreciation of your sacrifices but a reminder of your huge responsibility of crime fighting.

“Let this infrastructure inspire you to promote excellence and uphold commitment to duty,” he stated.

He said NAF had experienced remarkable transformation under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

“This is evident in the significant upgrade of our aircraft inventory and enhanced operational readiness.

“In recent years, we have bolstered our fleets with 15 cutting-edge aircrafts and we are set to receive more.

“Looking ahead, we are slated to acquire 49 additional aircrafts by 2026, bringing the total aircrafts to 64 new aircrafts in just three years,” he noted.

He said the new accommodation would expand operational capabilities, enhance quick response initiatives and empower the unit to execute its duties with increased precision, speed and effectiveness.

In a remark, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command NAF, AVM Usman Abdullahi, said the facility would foster optimal performance, boost morale and wellbeing of personnel.

Abdullahi further noted that it would reduce operational cost for personnel who traveled to and fro the city center.

He assured Abubakar that the facility would be utilised to enhance personnel performance and boost its relentless efforts in combating crime in the South East.

“Through our sustained operations, collaborations and community engagements, we have made significant strides in maintaining relative peace and stability in the South East region,” he stressed.

Abdullahi expressed the command’s resolve to protect lives and property as well as combat any security threat within their jurisdiction.

Also speaking, the Commander 211 Quick Response Group, Air Commodore David Bello, said the presence of Abubakar was a testament to his commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the unit.

“The new accommodation facility will boost our infrastructure and enhance our operational capabilities.

“Its accomplishment reflects the Chief of the Air Staff’s leadership philosophy which emphasises personnel welfare and infrastructure as a key to a motivated force,” he said.

Bello added that the facility would build on the unit’s recent successes, particularly in disrupting IPOB’s activities. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Justice Ministry improves in crime prosecution– Fagbemi
Judiciary

Justice Ministry improves in crime prosecution– Fagbemi

244 total views today

By Ebere Agozie

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, says the ministry has recorded considerable improvement in the prosecution of crimes under its purview.

Fagbemi disclosed this at the Quarterly Stakeholders Engagement with the theme `Access to Criminal Justice’ on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the engagement was to update the citizens on measures and achievements of the ministry and its agencies in the area of advancing the administration of criminal justice, from October 2024 to date

“These achievements came about as a result of extant policies and actions targeted at improving the capacity of our prosecutors, increasing synergy amongst prosecuting agencies, developing appropriate policy framework.

“This is in collaboration with office of the National Security Adviser and other law enforcement or security agencies.

“The ministry’s capacity development efforts were conducted in key areas of general investigation and prosecution strategy, cyber security, forensic analysis and electronic evidence, financial investigation and prosecution, energy related offences, piracy and other maritime offences, including sexual and gender based violence.’’

He added that in order to enhance response to cyber-crime, the ministry engaged in effective collaboration with relevant stakeholders to establish a Joint Case Team (JCT) on cyber-crime.

“This initiative was conceived in response to the need for a coordinated and robust approach to combating cybercrimes as outlined in the Cyber-crimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.

“However, we are currently reviewing the Cyber Crime Legal Framework to strengthen our national framework, aligning with emerging trends and global best practices.”

He said that the ministry has the mandate to foster collaboration and cooperation with the international community, in order to ensure that there is no safe haven for criminals.

“In terms of extradition, the ministry successful completed the extradition of two fugitives: Hassan Bun Hussein Abolore Lawal in January 2025 and Okechukwu Josiah Odunna in March, 2025; to the United States of America.

“Successful cooperation with the Qatari authorities for the extradition of one Benjamin Nnanyereugo a.k.a Killaboi from Qatar back to Nigeria in April, 2025, to face murder charges for the unlawful killing of his girlfriend, Augusta’’.

The minister gave reasons why it has not extradited a self-styled Prime Minister of Biafra, Mr Simon Ekpa, who was arrested and detained in Finland, back to Nigeria for prosecution.

“Ekpa committed cross-border offences that also required his trial in Finland.

“The detained Biafra agitator would be returned to Nigeria upon the conclusion of a legal action the Finnish government has already instituted against him.

“He violated laws in both Finland and Nigeria, the Finnish authorities wants to deal with the situation first and afterwards, release him to us.

“So, we will allow them to finish with the engagement there and then hand him over to us,” he added.

He also said that the review period witnessed effective conduct of 237 terrorism cases from Dec. 9 to Dec. 13, 2024, out of which 226 terrorism suspects were successfully prosecuted and convicted.

“On assets recovery efforts, Nigeria executed an Asset Sharing Agreement with the United States of America on January 10, 2025 which led to the repatriation of the Galactica Assets in the sum of Fifty-Two Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Two Thousand, Eighteen United States Dollars and Ninety-Five Cents from the USA.

“Out of the recovered sum, US$50 million would be deployed to funding the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) Project which is an initiative of the Federal Government to provide electricity access to 17.5 million Nigerians.

“While the remaining sum of US$2.88 million will be deployed to counter-terrorism capacity building for Criminal Justice Sector practitioners.’’

He reiterated the unwavering commitment of the current administration towards fostering transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in the administration of justice in Nigeria.

“While we are taking steps to improve the administration of justice, we look forward to receiving feedbacks from all relevant stakeholders.

“This will aid the ministry and relevant agencies in improving service delivery in this critical area.

“Today’s engagement offers a unique opportunity for open dialogue, enabling us to collectively identify gaps, propose solutions, and prioritize actions for the next phase of justice sector reforms’’. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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