News Agency of Nigeria
Nigeria open to world opportunities with good image, says activist
General News

Nigeria open to world opportunities with good image, says activist

By Zubairu Idris

A democracy activist, Mr Bishir Dauda, has urged Nigerians to project positive image of the country in order to enable them access more world opportunities.

 

Dauda is the founder of the Citizens Participation Against Corruption Initiative, a Katsina-based NGO, a democracy activist, human right defender and Pan-Africanist.

 

He said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Katsina after a recent visit to some West African countries in celebration of 50 years of ECOWAS creation.

 

“It is sad that many Nigerians are taking their country for granted. We don’t have any other place except this geographical entity called Nigeria. Nigeria is a permanent entity, while government come and go.

 

“Whatever issue or problem we may have with the leadership or government of our country; we should not say bad things about it because it is like putting a knife in your stomach.

 

“So, we have to be very careful on what we say or write about Nigeria. We should not insult and smear our country. This will affect us as a citizen directly or indirectly,” he said

 

Dauda said that the negative perception about Nigeria in the world is directly linked to what was said by its citizens against the nation.

 

“Some of the foreigners generalised because of the names we call our country, and they hold the opinion that all Nigerians are bad. This has affected the various opportunities that Nigerians could have accessed in the world.

 

“There is no country on earth that doesn’t have its own challenges. People don’t appreciate their country unless they travel to other countries. They encounter challenges even at the border posts.

 

“When I was travelling to ECOWAS countries, at the border post of one of the countries I visited. Immigration officials collected my passport and write 30 days and put stamp.

 

“They told me that after these days, they will consider me as illegal migrant in spite the fact that I am having an international passport, and traveling within ECOWAS member nations,” he said.

 

Dauda also urged African leaders to continue to evolve ways to improve the living condition of the citizenry, adding that this would change the perceptions of citizens to leadership.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria, Denmark to deepen ties on livestock devt, education — Tinubu
Foreign , General News

Nigeria, Denmark to deepen ties on livestock devt, education — Tinubu

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen ties with Denmark in livestock development, agribusiness, and educational cooperation.

The President stated this at the State House while receiving Queen Mary
Elizabeth of Denmark, who is visiting Nigeria as Patron of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit marks the Queen’s
first visit to Nigeria.

Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, emphasised the need to expand Nigeria’s dairy and livestock economy to ensure food security and tackle poverty.

He said the sector holds vast potential for job creation and rural growth, especially with Nigeria’s rapidly growing population.

The President expressed optimism that investment, education, and modernisation will help curtail the protracted herder-farmer conflicts in the country.

“We can transform friction into structured economic opportunity and build education pathways for farmers and herders,” he said.

“We can stabilise communities, grow food systems, and lift millions out of poverty,” Tinubu said.

President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, presenting a gift to
Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark, at the State House, Abuja on Tuesday

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s demographic strategy as a pillar of foreign policy, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President said targeted investments in agriculture, education, healthcare, and jobs are crucial as Nigeria approaches a projected 400 million population by 2050.

He highlighted ongoing macroeconomic reforms and urged for foreign investments that boost local production and employment.

The President acknowledged Danish contributions to agriculture and maritime infrastructure in Nigeria.

He specifically lauded companies like A.P. Moller–Maersk and Grundfos for supporting Nigeria’s infrastructure and food security.

Tinubu also praised Denmark’s humanitarian support for internally displaced persons in conflict-affected regions.

He expressed hope for stronger cooperation as Denmark assumes the EU Council Presidency and joins the UN Security Council in 2025–2026.

On the social front, Tinubu welcomed Denmark’s partnership with Nigeria’s First Lady on school feeding and reducing out-of-school children.

Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark”s visit to Nigeria, on Tuesday, at State House, Abuja

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, in her brief remarks, stressed the importance of integrating traditional Islamic schools into Nigeria’s formal education system.

Responding, Queen Mary thanked the President and First Lady for their warm welcome and expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria’s northeast.

She said her visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and explore investment in green energy, women-led businesses, and child health initiatives.

The Queen also emphasised enhancing cultural and educational exchanges between Denmark and Nigeria.

She praised the First Lady’s efforts to empower women and families through the Renewed Hope Initiative Programme.

Denmark, she noted, has maintained a strong development partnership with Nigeria, especially in humanitarian aid for displaced populations.

NAN reports that Queen Mary is scheduled to visit A.P. Moller–Maersk’s Lagos terminal as part of her visit to Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Let’s cherish our democracy, freedom of speech- Bako
General News

Let’s cherish our democracy, freedom of speech- Bako

By Nana Musa

The former Director General National Broadcasting Commission, Danladi Bako, has urged Nigerians to protect and cherish our hard-earned democracy.

 

He also enjoined them to ensure the sustenance of freedom of speech and freedom of association as contained in the constitution.

 

Bako made this known in a statement by his Media Assistant, Ibrahim Sani, on Thursday in Abuja.

He stressed the importance of appreciating the role of freedom, inclusivity, populism and prosperity in the tenets of democracy, adding that it was what makes it the most desirable and embracing form of government.

He emphasised that while it would seem that military regimes did achieve a lot using decrees and unilateralism, it was fraught with lack of grassroots participation and a properly elected legislature.

“Consultation and consensus building occasionally makes the procedural engagement of democracy look tedious and slow. It always, at the end of the day, results in actualisation of genuine contributions to the process of good governance as well as achieve tangible dividends of democracy.”

Bako, a former Commissioner of Information in Sokoto State, called on the huge youth population to get interested and participate actively in the electoral process and contest for elective positions.

 

“That way the country can benefit comprehensively from their energy and progressive ideas,” he said.

Bako praised the President Bola Tinubu’s administration in its effort at turning around the fortunes of the country, adding that Nigerians must support its policies especially the economic reforms to succeed.

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Nigeria committed to advancing social justice- Labour minister 
Foreign

Nigeria committed to advancing social justice- Labour minister 

By Joan Nwagwu

The Nigerian government says it is committed to advancing social justice and decent work for sustainable peace and development in the country

 

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Mohammed Maigari, who led the Nigeria delegates at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference, said this during a plenary session on Tuesday in Geneva, Switzerland.

 

Maigari, who was speaking in response to the Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) reports, said Nigeria shares the ILO’s vision of a just transition.

 

According to him, Nigeria acknowledges that sustainable development hinges on inclusive economic growth, fair labour practices, and robust democratic institutions.

 

“I am happy to inform you that the Federal Government of Nigeria with its tripartite constituents are committed to advancing social justice.

 

“In furtherance of this, Nigeria signed on to the ILO Global Coalition for Social Justice as part of our continued commitment towards building an equitable society for all Nigerians.

 

“Also, partnering with the ILO to achieve its goals and global aspirations for the common good,” he said.

 

He said that Nigeria noted the theme of the DG’s report as it aligns with the mandates and aspirations of the priority areas of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

 

He added that the agenda was designed to reposition Nigeria as a prime global investment destination.

 

“The agenda is hinged on the vision of pursuing and instituting sustained socio economic prosperity for our country through attaining job creation, inclusiveness, food security.

 

“Others are poverty eradication, economic growth, access to capital, improving the security of life and property, rule of law and fight against corruption.

 

“These priorities aim at building a more just and equitable society that is an essential and critical component for our national growth and development, as well as laying a springboard for international integration,” he said.

 

He, however, said that Nigeria have approved a new National Minimum Wage that was collectively negotiated aimed at ensuring improved living conditions for workers.

 

On eradication of child labour, Nigeria, as a Pathfinder Country under Alliance 8.7 was intensifying efforts to eliminate child labour and forced labour, among others.

 

He also said that the country was conscious that over 60 per cent of Nigeria’s labour force operates in the informal economy.

 

“Therefore, through various MSME support programmes, tax reforms, and digital registration drives, we are transitioning informal businesses into the formal economy.

 

“This is while expanding social protection coverage,” he added.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference started on June 2 and will end on June 13.

 

The conference has representatives from government, employer and worker delegates from the ILO’s 187 member states.

 

It will address important world of work matters such as possible new international standards on the protection of workers against biological hazards in the working environment, decent work, amongst others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Sallah: CAN chairman urges leaders to deepen sacrifices for Nigeria’s security
Religious

Sallah: CAN chairman urges leaders to deepen sacrifices for Nigeria’s security

By Sarafina Christopher

The Christian Association (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the FCT has urged all Nigerians in positions of authority, particularly the political leadership, “to make a double sacrifice to secure Nigeria just as Muslims offer sacrifices in obedience to God during Sallah”.

The Chairman of the association, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, gave the advice in a Sallah message to the Muslim faithful as they join other parts of the world to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

“This season, which honours Prophet Ibrahim’s total obedience and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of God, is a timely call for both leaders and citizens to demonstrate renewed faith, unity, and responsibility towards our nation.

“In this spirit, Northern CAN encourages those in positions of authority, particularly the political leadership, to make a double sacrifice to secure Nigeria just as Muslims offer sacrifices in obedience to God during Sallah,” he said.

The further advised the political elite to act in consonance with their constitutional obligation and moral responsibility in the interest of every Nigerian.

“Our leaders must likewise act in obedience to their constitutional duty and moral responsibility to protect the lives and dignity of every Nigerian.

“The country is groaning under the weight of insecurity, economic distress, and social disillusionment.

“Nigerians are living in fear, and this climate of uncertainty is what gives room for enemies of peace to perpetrate evil without restraint.

“It is no longer enough to issue statements or make promises.

“The government must urgently remedy the conditions that have cast doubt on its commitment to the people.

“Let the leadership act decisively so that Nigerians will no longer have reasons to question or complain,” Hayab added.

According to him, the time has come for the Federal Government to take steps aimed at restoring public confidence and healing “our national wounds”.

“CAN calls on Nigerians to use this solemn period to pray for the peace and unity of the country, while also reaching out to the less privileged in the true spirit of Eid.

“We urge all religious and community leaders to continue fostering peaceful coexistence and to avoid making statements or taking actions capable of deepening our division.

The CAN chairman expressed warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, as well as a joyful and spiritually rewarding Eid-el-Kabir. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Wike seeks support for Tinubu-led FG 
Metro

Wike seeks support for Tinubu-led FG 

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to transform the country for the good of all.

Wike made the call in his 2025 Distinguish Personality Lecture, titled, “The Nigeria of our Dreams” delivered  at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun, on Thursday

He said that no leader, no matter how endowed, equipped or selfless, could truly succeed without the support and cooperation of the citizenry.

The minister advised Nigerians to wake up from years of cynicism, indifference and hopelessness and embrace a new era being birthed by Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, no nation has made any reasonable progress without the robust cooperation and collaboration of its leadership and followership.

“South Africa for instance, under Mandela, achieved independence and made progress as shown in his book’ Long Walk to Freedom’ through this cooperation.

“Dubai is also recording all these great feats through synergy between its leadership and followership.

“The time for belief is here; the time for action is also here. Together with President Tinubu, we can as a people begin the real process of building the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said

The minister also urged  Nigerians to reject the negative narrative that Nigeria would never change for good, stressing that “with the right leadership, nothing is impossible”.

He said that to reclaim Nigeria’s dream, the people must first reclaim the belief in the possibility that the country would be better and reject the defeatist narratives that nothing would change.

According to him, change does not come from the top alone; it bubbles up from the conviction of a determined people.

“The Nigeria of our dreams is not a utopia; it is a Nigeria that works; it is a Nigeria where merit trumps mediocrity, where justice flows like a river.

“The Nigeria of our dream is also where every child, regardless of ethnic group, religion, tongue, or class, has the opportunity to live with dignity and die with honour.

“It is a nation that listens to the heartbeat of its people and allows the soul of democracy to find expression, not only in periodic elections, but in the daily dignity of citizenship.

“It is a place where leaders are not predators on the public purse, but custodians of the people’s trust; where leadership is purposeful, and followership is responsible,” he said.

The minister added that the “Nigeria of our dream is a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where the rule of law is not a slogan, but a sacred covenant”.

Wike  emphasised that reclaiming Nigeria’s dream demands a rekindling of its vision and values, stressing that Nigerians must reimagine the country not as victims of its history, but as architects of its destiny.

He also stressed the need to rebuild trust between government and the governed, among ethnic nationalities and across faiths and generations.

The minister also said that to make meaningful progress, Nigerians must rediscover the dignity of labour, the sanctity of truth and the strength of unity.

“Most of all, we must believe again that our country, however flawed, is not beyond redemption.

“This work belongs to all of us. No one is too small to matter or too big to fail.

“Nigeria’s redemption will not be delivered by heroes on horseback, but by ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things: living with integrity, speaking truth to power, raising children with values, and holding firm to hope even when the night is long.

“The dream is not dead. It merely sleeps, waiting for those bold enough, brave enough, and burdened enough to awaken it,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Only Tinubu can lead us to Nigeria of our dreams – Wike 
General News

Only Tinubu can lead us to Nigeria of our dreams – Wike 

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says the country needs leaders like President Bola Tinubu to achieve the “Nigeria of our dreams”.

Wike said this in his 2025 Distinguish Personality Lecture, titled, “The Nigeria of our Dreams” presented at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife on Thursday.

Wike pointed out that the greatest challenge confronting Nigeria and  militating against its development was the plague of bad leadership.

He agreed with Chinua Achebe, whose seminar, ‘The Trouble with Nigeria’, graphically captured the challenge, when he stated that ‘the trouble with Nigeria is fairly and squarely the absence of proper leadership’.

“This statement, damaging as it may appear, is extremely difficult to controvert.

“Our leaders have, in the main, emerged through self-serving conspiracies that have little or nothing to do with national interests and development.

“This has been the case in both military and civilian contexts,” he said.

He, however, said that Tinubu had stood out as the leader the people needed to drive Nigeria to progress and prosperity.

He explained that Nigeria needs a leader that was prepared to lead with sound character and resilience in the face of challenges.

He added that the leader must also be a person who believed in the infinite possibilities that the Nigerian nation exemplifies, while taking solid, proactive, logical and well-informed decisions that would maximally actualise her potential.

This leader, he said, must have the courage and audacity to act, build, innovate and generally expand the frontiers of development with a hands-on approach that would emphasise excellence over mediocrity.

He added that more importantly, the leader of Nigerians’ dream must create a society of free and responsible citizens whose potentials flowed freely and free enterprise thrived.

“Let me make bold at this juncture to state that today, in our country, we have such a leader in the person of Tinubu.

“He has shown in several ways and at different times, a stout commitment to the enthronement of democracy in our country, to the extent of even putting his own life on the line in the process.

“He has shown great capacity for engendering development as captured in the unprecedented rapid and exponential development of Lagos state under his watch and even beyond,” he added.

He also said that Tinubu had demonstrated a rare courage by removing fuel subsidy on his first day, upon being sworn in as President.

According to him, leaders before him all spoke about the evil of fuel subsidy, but none had the courage to dare the blackmail of removing it.

“Tinubu did and is fittingly grappling with the inevitable, unintended and sometimes orchestrated consequences of this removal.

“Today, our states have far more resources to develop, the debts are no longer piling and the price of petrol is gradually but steadily adjusting downwards in tandem with the forces of demand and supply and the strict implementation of regulatory conditionalities.

“Also, the overwhelming cry of over-centralisation of power and resources at the national level and the attendant abuse of the doctrine of federalism is being systematically addressed.

“This is being addressed through the creation of zonal/regional commissions empowered to devolve developmental impetus to the respective zones and regions, so that power can truly return to the people.”

On security, Wike said that the situation was being addressed through proper funding and the training and retraining of security forces.

The minister added that Tinubu’s approval for the recruitment of forest guards across the country to take charge of the nation’s forests, bandits and terrorists would no longer find incubation points and free territories to operate.

“Put simply, the era of banditry and terrorism will soon come to an end.

“These and many other policies and measures are being put together by Tinubu to reposition our country on the path of progress and development,” Wike said.

Earlier, Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun, described Wike as a straightforward politician, adding that his wealth of political experience and leadership style was exemplary.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, the governor said that the minister’s infrastructural transformation in the FCT was visionary.

Also, the Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof. Adebayo Bamire, said that the theme of the lecture, ‘’Nigeria of our Dream” was timely and thought-provoking.

“At a critical juncture when our nation’s democratic journey, when the challenges of governance, civic trust, and equitable development are at the forefront of public discourse, this lecture offers a vital platform for reflection, engagement and forward thinking.

“It calls us to interrogate the structures that uphold democracy, the principles that guide responsible governance, citizenship and the strategies that can unlock Nigeria’s development potential,” he said.

The Royal Father of the Day, Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, said he has deep respect for Wike because of his fearlessness.

He described the minister as an “upright politician” who “said things as they are.

“Hate him; like him – what will be will be.” (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Lagos State on course to achieving universal health coverage?
Features , Health

Lagos State on course to achieving universal health coverage?

 

 

 

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola, News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)

 

In line with the global commitment toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC), Nigeria is pushing to ensure equitable access to high-quality and affordable health care for all citizens.

 

However, progress has been slow, evident in high out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, poor health insurance penetration and low national and subnational health budgets.

 

Nigeria has one of the highest rates of out-of-pocket healthcare spending in the world, with an estimated 77 per cent of healthcare expenses being paid directly by individuals, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

 

However, it is not only Nigeria, as the health agency submits the world is off track to make significant progress towards universal health coverage, a critical target of the Sustainable Development Goals of good health and well-being.

 

“This global pattern is consistent across all regions and the majority of countries.

 

“Protecting people from the financial consequences of paying for health services out of their own pockets reduces the risk that people will be pushed into poverty because the cost of needed services and treatments requires them to use up their life savings, sell assets, or borrow – destroying their futures and often those of their children.”

 

For a country as diverse and populous as Nigeria where citizens are grappling with a high cost of living, financial constraints and the rising cost of healthcare and medicines, paying out-of-pocket for healthcare services has become unaffordable that people now self-medicate, ignore symptoms, or pray it away.

 

Millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural and underserved communities, face challenges accessing healthcare due to systemic inequities and financial constraints.

 

The delay in seeking prompt medical treatment worsens the rate of morbidity and mortality among citizens.

 

To Nigerians, UHC is not just a goal—it is a lifeline.

 

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, while speaking on the achievement of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the health sector during its second anniversary, discloses that only 16 million Nigerians were enrolled in health insurance at the commencement of the administration in 2023.

 

“We’ve been able to expand enrollment in health insurance across our country.

 

“For almost 25 years of health insurance in Nigeria, there were 16 million enrollees when this administration came, literally, less than a million a year.

 

“But in two years of this administration, four million Nigerians have enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme.

 

“If we had been doing this for the past few years, Nigeria would have had more than 100 million enrollees.”

 

Pate explains that the government is reforming the health insurance scheme in collaboration with state health insurance authorities to ensure it reaches more Nigerians, especially vulnerable populations.

 

In Lagos State, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), established in 2015, manages the state’s social health insurance tagged “Ilera Eko Scheme”.

 

It is designed to enhance access to effective, quality, and equitable healthcare services while providing financial protection from the cost of healthcare to all residents of the state.

 

Lagos State has an estimated population of 30 million residents, with a rapid annual population growth rate of six to eight per cent, placing a significant demand on its health system, requiring smart, scalable, and resilient solutions.

 

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, while giving an update on the second anniversary of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office, explains that currently, only five per cent of Lagos residents are enrolled in the state’s social health insurance.

 

Abayomi highlights a 30-year bold plan to improve the number of enrollees from five per cent to 90 per cent.

 

Acknowledging the importance of increased budgetary allocation from the current 8 per cent to 15 per cent target supported by dynamic reallocations throughout the fiscal year to attain universal health coverage.

 

The Ilera Eko health insurance scheme offers various plans with different price points for individuals and families, giving access to private and public hospitals statewide.

 

It covers 80 per cent of hospital needs including consultations, treatment for common diseases, maternal care, chronic disease management, and surgeries, among others.

 

In a bold move to bolster health insurance coverage, Gov. Sanwo-Olu in July 2024, had signed an Executive Order for the compulsory subscription to the state’s social health insurance by all residents, employers, and workers in the state.

 

Moving forward, the government has disclosed plans to commence the full enforcement of mandatory health insurance for all residents by the third quarter of 2025.

 

At present, about 1.3 million residents are enrolled in LASHMA’s Ilera Eko health insurance.

 

The Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr Emmanuella Zamba, emphasises the importance of strengthening public awareness, affirming LASHMA’s commitment to reinforce the message that health insurance is not a privilege, but a necessity.

 

“We are committed to making sure that every Lagosian understands the importance of social health insurance and the fact that it is now a mandatory requirement,” she says.

 

Zamba highlights the agency’s strategic initiatives to expand participation in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance scheme to include the “ILERA ‘N TIWA Cooperative, designed to integrate the informal sector into the health insurance ecosystem.

 

She also explains that the initiative provides flexible payment plans for artisans, traders, and low-income earners, ensuring they are not excluded from healthcare services, mentioning the Ilera Eko Academy, an initiative aimed at training a larger sales force to boost public awareness and drive enrollment.

 

The Permanent Secretary notes that LASHMA has expanded its registration options to improve accessibility.

 

These include physical enrollment centres across Lagos, designated community pharmacies, USSD registration, and an online portal.

 

“The agency also achieved the rollout of an equity fund that guarantees healthcare access for over 300,000 vulnerable residents.

 

“The equity fund, supported by one per cent of Lagos State’s consolidated revenue, has set a benchmark as a first-line charge, ensuring funds are consistently available for vulnerable groups.”

 

On the affordability of social health insurance, Zamba states that the enrollment costs are N15,000 per individual, N55,000 for a family of four, and N80,000 for a family of six.

 

An enrollee, Mrs Funke James, says she received free treatment for a severe cough infection and medications worth over N80,000 under the scheme.

 

“My daughter also had a Caesarean Section without paying a dime. I am truly grateful to the government,” she said.

 

Similarly, Mrs Hassan Balikis, commends the initiative, recounting how she benefitted from three free medical tests after falling ill.

 

“I didn’t realise the extent of the benefits until I needed them. This programme is truly a lifesaver,” she remarked.

 

In spite of the laudable initiative of the government expressed by its commitment to improving health indices and the quality of care in Lagos State, the Ilera Eko still faces issues of long waiting times, low enrollment, and service accessibility, among others, as lamented by some enrollees and Civil Societies Organisations.

 

Agreeable, Lagos State has exhibited a strong political will and made commendable progress, but there is much more to be done in providing equitable, affordable and accessible healthcare services that ensure no one is left behind. (NANFeatures)

 

 

 

*****If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

Wings of Pride: Celebrating Nigerian Air Force at 61
Features

Wings of Pride: Celebrating Nigerian Air Force at 61

By Sumaila Ogbaje, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Since its establishment on April 18, 1963, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has played a vital role in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its airspace, and contributing to regional stability.

By many accounts, the NAF has demonstrated remarkable commitment to its mission, with personnel displaying exceptional bravery, skill, and professionalism.

From counter-insurgency operations to humanitarian assistance, the NAF has consistently risen to the challenge, putting the nation’s interests above all else.

The NAF has played a crucial role in supporting ground troops in the fight against Boko Haram and other terrorist groups, and has also provided critical support during natural disasters, evacuating citizens and delivering aid to affected areas.

It has contributed to regional stability through its participation in peacekeeping missions and joint exercises with neighbouring countries.

As the NAF celebrates its 61st anniversary, it continues to modernise and adapt to emerging challenges.

The acquisition of new aircraft, upgrade of existing platforms, and investment in cutting-edge technology are some of the initiatives aimed at enhancing the NAF’s operational capabilities.

At the event commemorating NAF’s 61st anniversary, it showcased a lot of breakthroughs in platforms procurement and advancement in Research and Development (R&D) efforts as well as induction of the first batch of the newly acquired Agusta 109 Trekka Helicopters by President Bola Tinubu.

The president, who was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said he was very emphatic on assumption of office that security would be a top priority of his administration, as neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity and violence.

He said the induction of the new combat helicopters marked another milestone in his unwavering commitment to strengthen the nation’s armed forces, particularly the Air Force towards a more secure Nigeria.

Tinubu said the acquisition was made alongside orders like the Diamond 62 Surveillance Aircraft, the T-129 Attack Helicopters, the King Air 360 aircraft, as well as others that will be delivered in the coming months.

“Let me use this opportunity to assure you all that my administration will continue to support the Nigerian Air Force and indeed other security agencies by giving due attention and priority to fleet modernisation as well as training and welfare of our men and women in uniform.

“As your commander-in-chief, I understand that a well-equipped military is essential not only for securing our nation but also for preserving our democracy.

“A democratically stable Nigeria is fundamental to our national progress and regional peace and the defence of democracy requires a military that is well-prepared, well-trained and well-equipped,’’ he said.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the dynamic security landscape of the nation demands an agile, well-equipped and responsive air force capable of rapid deployment across multiple theatres.

He said the reality underscored the need for continuous investments in modern platforms to bolster the Nigerian Air Force’s capacity to deliver air power across all spectrums of warfare.

Abubakar said the successful acquisition of the Augusta Westland 109 Trekka helicopter was a significant leap in our modernisation efforts of the NAF.

The air chief said the helicopter was designed to operate in challenging environments, providing critical support to both military and civil operations, including disaster relief and humanitarian missions.

“By inducting this platform into the NAF, the service is further strengthening its multi-domain operational capability, making us more responsive and efficient in the protection of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“It is noteworthy that from 2024 to date, NAF has received a total of nine brand-new aircraft into its inventory, comprising four C-129 attack helicopters, three King Air 360 aircraft, as well as the two Agusta 109 trekker helicopters being inducted.”

Abubakar said the NAF was poised to receive 49 more aircraft within the next two years, in line with Mr President’s firm commitment towards Nigerian security.

He said the 49 aircraft being expected included 10 additional A-109S trekkers, 12 AH-1 Zulu attack helicopters, 24 M-346 attack and ground attack aircraft, and three Kata 295 medium airlift aircraft.

According to him, the acquisitions will significantly bolster precision strike, ground attack, and air mobility capabilities, to support counter terrorism, and counterinsurgency operations.

In the area of building local capacity through research and development, the air chief said the NAF was optimising strategic partnerships in artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicle research and development, small arms and rocket developments, as well as radar enhancements.

He said that NAF’s various research and development institutions, such as the Air Force Institute of Technology, were partnering with universities and government institutions towards accelerating their research and development capabilities.

“As part of efforts to optimise our employment of NAF platforms, we have recorded research and development breakthroughs, such as revalidation of the Alpha Jet aircraft ejection seats, retrofitting of unserviceable 68mm rockets, and the development of a test kit for determining the specific impulse of pyro cartridges, amongst several others.

“Also, just two weeks ago, I inaugurated a research committee tasked with initiating the local production of the C-5 57mm rockets integral to some of our attack platforms.

“These achievements highlight our shift towards self-reliance and resilience in defence technology,’’ he said.

During the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), with Lagos State University and a local defence firm, EPAIL Nigeria, the CAS expressed the desire of the NAF to pursue locally driven solutions in addressing the nation’s security challenges.

According to him, in a rapidly changing world, the ability to continue to anticipate, rapidly adapt and innovate is imperative for the transformation of the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the air power demands of national security in all operational environments.

Abubakar said the NAF had since 2015, flown over 8,000, conducted more than 80,000 sorties with only few verified incidences of collateral damage.

He said it represented an occurrence rate of less than 0.005 per cent, an exceptional record by global standards, particularly within the complexities of asymmetric warfare.

The CAS said that in the few instances where civilian casualties were reported, the NAF had promptly conducted investigations, accepted responsibility with deep regret, and taken necessary corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.

According to him, the service has proactively invested in advanced technologies and robust protocols aimed at preventing civilian casualties.

In his remarks, the Vice President, Defence Industries Association of Nigeria (DIAN), Ade Ogundeyin, commended the NAF for its continuous efforts in modernising air operations, enhancing research and development, and fostering civil military cooperation.

Ogundeyin said that DIAN was established to promote local industry, defence manufacturing, and enhance Nigeria’s military industrial capabilities, aimed to advance indigenous defence technology through innovation and strategic partnerships.

He said that by fostering partnerships between defence industries and institutions, research bodies, and the academia and private industries, Nigeria was positioning itself for self-sufficiency in aerospace technology and defence manufacturing.

Available data indicates that the NAF has contributed to UN peacekeeping operations, providing air support and transportation services to peacekeeping troops in addition to its internal security operations over the years.

By participating in global and regional security initiatives, the NAF has demonstrated its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s interests and contributing to international peace and security.

The NAF’s global ranking is 54th in terms of airpower, according to the Global Firepower Index 2025 while ranking third in Africa, behind Egypt and Algeria, with a firepower index of 0.5771.

As part of measures to mitigate civilian casualties during air operations, the NAF also unveiled the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plans Document during the NAF Day 2025 Seminar.

The seminar was part of activities marking NAF’s 61st anniversary in Abuja.

Experts are of the view that with continuous training of its personnel, systematic upgrading and acquisition of modern combat equipment, the NAF will continue to prove its mettle in protecting Nigeria’s airspace. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria

Nigeria re-elected into international maritime council
General News

Nigeria re-elected into international maritime council

By Aisha Cole

The President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA), Mrs Funke Agbor, (SAN), has been re-elected into the Executive Council of the  Comité Maritime International (CMI).

 

Agbor was re-elected for another three-year term.

 

The Publicity Secretary of NMLA, Mrs Omolola Ikwuagwu, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

Ikwuagwu said that the election took place during the General Assembly of the CMI, which held on May 18 in Tokyo, Japan.

 

She said that the re-election was a clear reaffirmation of the confidence of the global maritime law community in Nigeria.

 

She added that the council was particularly confident in the leadership and contributions of Agbor, who was first elected into the Council in 2022.

 

Ikwuagwu explained that Agbor also led a high-level Nigerian delegation to the 2025 CMI Assembly where major resolutions were adopted.

 

She said that the assembly adopted the Lex Maritima, a global guidance on the foundational principles of maritime law.

 

Ikwuagwu emphasised the NMLA’s commitments to advancing the development and promotion of maritime law in Nigeria.

 

The NMLA secretary said that the association would continue to serve as the country’s foremost professional body for maritime legal practitioners and stakeholders.

 

She added that the association would also be good ambassadors of Nigeria as a proud member of the Comité Maritime International.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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