News Agency of Nigeria
NCTC, IITA unveil agri-business initiative for ex-combatants, seek donor support
Defence/Security

NCTC, IITA unveil agri-business initiative for ex-combatants, seek donor support

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has launched a major agri-business and livelihood empowerment initiative targeted at former combatants and conflict-affected communities in Nigeria.

The initiative, announced in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), was announced at a high-level donors and stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the programme was to strengthen Nigeria’s non-kinetic counter-terrorism approach by promoting peacebuilding through economic inclusion.

Laka said that the centre is committed to “a whole-of-government and whole-of-society” approach to addressing the root causes of violent extremism.

He explained that the collaboration with IITA was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on May 20, adding that six states had so far indicated interest in hosting the project.

According to him, sustainable peace and security cannot be achieved through kinetic response alone.

He said “strategies that empower individuals and restore livelihoods are essential to building lasting peace and preventing the resurgence of extremist ideologies.

“The new project will provide access to land, inputs, training, mentorship and market linkages for former clients of Federal Government’s disarmament, deradicalisation and Reintegration (DDR) programme, as well as widows and members of conflict-affected communities.”

Laka said the initiative would be built on the success of Operation Safe Corridor, which according to him, has graduated more than 2,600 low-risk former combatants through rehabilitation in Mallam Sidi Camp in Gombe State.

He added that the programme offered psychosocial support, vocational training and reintegration assistance.

“Currently, more than 300 clients are undergoing rehabilitation and increasing number of terrorists and bandits in the North-West and North-Central regions are expressing willingness to surrender,” he said.

The NCTC boss, however, stressed the need for sustainable economic reintegration to avoid reversal of gains made through the DDR programmes.

He cited World Bank data indicating that growth in the agriculture sector is at least twice as effective in reducing poverty as growth in other sectors.

“Agribusiness presents an ideal platform for skill development, income generation and community stability in post-conflict settings,” he said.

He called for increased donor funding and multisectoral collaboration to implement the initiative on a national scale.

He said “this stakeholders’ meeting provides platform to share our vision, present our strategy and explore partnership pathways. With your support, this initiative can become a model for regional replication.”

He thanked the IITA and other stakeholders for their commitment and support, expressing hope that the initiative would promote lasting peace and resilience across the country.

Mr Sadiq Tafida, the Chairman, House Committee on Peace Building and Social Cohesion, reiterated the support of the National Assembly (NASS) to agribusiness-based livelihood empowerment programme for former combatants and conflict-affected communities.

He described the partnership between NCTC and IITA as “a transformative step toward addressing the root causes of extremism and insecurity in Nigeria.

“This collaboration recognises a fundamental truth—that security is not achieved by military means alone, but also by addressing the socioeconomic vulnerabilities that extremists exploit.

“Through these efforts, we aim to create a pathway to dignity, self-reliance and hope.”

The lawmaker said building peace from the ground up through agribusiness and livelihood initiatives would help to convert former conflict zones into hubs of opportunities and stability.

Tafida also emphasised the importance of donor engagement, noting that no single institution could tackle violent extremism alone.

The Deputy Director-General of IITA, Dr Abdoulaye Tahirau, said that Seeds For Hope was more than a project, but a movement toward inclusive peace, resilience and dignity.

Tahirau explained that the initiative would introduce high-quality seeds, provide training for farmers and help to build resilient value chains, as well as promote inclusive participation of youth, women and other vulnerable groups.

He added that “at IITA, we believe agriculture is a powerful force for reconciliation, recovery and inclusive growth.

“This initiative will not only plant seeds in the soil but also sow hope, dignity and opportunities in the hearts of communities.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Abuja’s Operation Sweep: 675 vehicles impounded, 273 beggars apprehended – CP
Defence/Security

Abuja’s Operation Sweep: 675 vehicles impounded, 273 beggars apprehended – CP

By Philip Yatai

No fewer than 675 vehicles have been impounded while 273 beggars were apprehended across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under Operation Sweep Abuja, which began on July 7.

The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Ajao Adewale, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the FCT Security Committee meeting, chaired by the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Tuesday.

Adewale explained that the 273 beggars and destitute were currently being profiled, adding that some of them would be repatriated back to their respective states.

“In the course of this operation, we had offences that relate to drug peddling, to crime, and those that have to do with illegal begging.

“All the ones that fall within illegal begging on the roads have been taken care of by the FCT Social Development Secretariat.

“For those offences that relate to drug peddling, those ones have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,” he said.

The commissioner of police added that the 675 vehicles impounded were over improper documentation, tinted glasses, covered number plates among other offences.

He added that a number of the vehicles were also impounded for operating illegal taxi services associated with “one chance” – posing as taxi operators to lure commuters and seize their belongings.

“What we are doing for now is to increase the visibility of our security personnel at bus stops and all the places where they pick their targets.

“We are equally encouraging residents to key into the idea of boarding vehicles at the designated bus stops, preferably in groups, and to be security conscious when boarding vehicles,” the commissioner said.

He said that the security committee had rated the operation as “very successful” and had advised that the exercise continue.

The commissioner added that the FCT minister equally directed security agencies to address the issue of shanties that had been springing up across the nation’s capital city.

“The minister also directed that we rid the FCT of prostitutes, beggars and all other miscreants that constitute a threat to the environment,” he added.

Adewale said that Wike had directed all illegal mining sites and illegal Internally Displaced Persons camps to be shut over security concerns.

He stressed that traffic-related offences that equally contribute to crime in the city would be decisively dealt with.

He identified some of the offences as driving with covered number plates and driving against the traffic.

“There is going to be a total clampdown on these offenders.

“The directive has been given and we are rolling out for full implementation,” he said.

Speaking on the recent clash between farmers and herders in the Gwagwalada Area Council, the commissioner of police said that the issue had been laid to rest.

He explained that the parties involved had signed a peace accord to ensure permanent peace in the affected communities. (NAN)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Sustained collaboration panacea to insecurity in North- Sani
General News

Sustained collaboration panacea to insecurity in North- Sani

By Hussaina Yakubu

Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State says recent improvements in security across Northern Nigeria are the result of sustained collaboration between federal authorities and local stakeholders.

He, however, warned that progress would remain fragile without the full engagement of the region’s elites.

The governor was speaking at the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation’s two-day interactive programme in Kaduna.

Sani recalled the dire security situation he inherited in May 2023, describing Kaduna as a state “under siege at the time.

“From the Kaduna Abuja expressway to Birnin Gwari, Chikun, Igabi, and the southern parts of our state, fear had overtaken our communities.

“Markets were shuttered, villages deserted, and the spirit of Kaduna was being eroded by violence.”

The governor said that military force alone could not resolve the crisis, leading his administration to adopt what he described as the Kaduna Peace Model.

He explained that this was a blend of proactive security measures, community engagement, and institutional collaboration.

“Our strategy combined support for security agencies with dialogue, local vigilance, and social investment and with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have seen significant improvement,” he said.

Sani said that these efforts led to the dismantling of criminal enclaves along the Kaduna to Abuja highway, the reopening of Birnin Gwari markets after over a decade, and the resettlement of displaced communities in Chikun and Igabi.

He also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, commending the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the Ministers of Defence, Service Chiefs, and other security stakeholders.

Sani stressed that the root causes of insecurity ran deeper than armed conflict, citing poverty, illiteracy, and exclusion as some underlying drivers.

“Insecurity is not just a failure of arms. It is the result of years of policy neglect, economic exclusion, and weak governance structures,” he said.

The governor called on Northern leaders to confront their own role in the region’s long standing security challenges, stating that blaming the current administration for inherited problems would be misleading.

“Our problems did not begin two years ago. They are decades old. It is not honest to put the burden entirely on President Tinubu,” he said.

Sani further urged the elites in the region to rise beyond political posturing and contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding, inclusion, and development.

“Security is everyone’s responsibility. No president or governor can succeed in isolation. We must all take ownership of the North’s future,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

NSA, CDS reel out achievements in addressing insecurity
Defence/Security

NSA, CDS reel out achievements in addressing insecurity

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The National Security Adviser to the President, Malam Nuhu Ribadu and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, have narrated the laudable achievements recorded by the Federal Government in addressing insecurity under President Bola Tinubu.
They gave the explanation during the plenary session at the two-day Interactive Session on Government-citizens’ Engagement on Tuesday in Kaduna.
Ribadu said that Nigeria has been battling with insecurity over 20 years ago, adding that
there were Niger Delta agitation, Boko Haram, banditry, IPOB, other separatist groups and security challenges.
The national security adviser gave an overview of Nigeria’s security challenges before May 29, 2023.
“Before we came in, bandits were in control in North-Central and other parts of the North, killing innocent people on a weekly basis, burning villages and communities.
“We have traced, identified and dealt with them. Before May 29, 2023, there were high profile attacks and mass casualties across the country. When we came in, we believed that Nigeria had to be secured first.
“When we took over, we had some security challenges, which included Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping, separatists, Niger Delta, herder-farmer and communal clashes, among others.”
According to Ribadu, the Niger-Delta issue had been fixed, with crude oil production now over 1.9 million barrel per day from one million.
He said, “We have stopped those that wanted to divide the country. Tinubu instructed the security agencies to work together as one and we are working together, even with the Governors.
“Kaduna now is about 80 per cent free, no more bandits. We are carrying out operations in Kwara and other states.
“All security apparatus in the country work as a team. Today communities that were gripped with armed banditry now have relief.”
He also said that those bandits that were willing to repent and turn a new leaf were welcome.
The NSA further explained that the Armed Forces recently neutralised many bandits and criminal elements, adding that those bandits once in charge of territories in Kaduna had been taken out.
”Kaduna and other parts of the North are now free. We have achieved a lot. However, it is not yet over, but it’s a matter of time.
“There are so many enemies of the state that are in custody, and others are going through serious investigation.
“The recent reports of achievements from the Army are remarkable; roads are now safe; Kandawa, Dubali, Sabon Gali and many other areas have now been liberated.
“You can drive in any part of Kaduna State freely unlike two years ago.
“President Tinubu has mandated us to collaborate and work. We will work to bring stability to the country, restore order and give our people their lives back. We need your support,” Ribadu said.
Also speaking, Musa expressed the commitment of the armed forces to continue to work and ensure that the Northern region was free and Nigeria was fully secured.
“We will go after any enemy of the state and continue to do that until there is tranquility and peace in Nigeria.
“Our ways of working are based on collaboration, professionalism and collective actions and because we cannot be everywhere, we carry the communities along; security is also about relationships.
“There is also the need to engage our youths fully in activities that will distract them from participating in banditry or terrorism. We have also engage in public awareness.
“The  Nigerian Air Force is on top of their game and so also other security agencies.
“However, our borders are porous, but we want the border communities to also assist in reporting criminal elements that cross into our borders,” Musa said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
Advancing Nigeria’s security strategies through unmanned aerial systems
Features

Advancing Nigeria’s security strategies through unmanned aerial systems

By Patricia Amogu, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In the face of Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, marked by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence, a glimmer of hope is on the horizon as homegrown security innovations gain momentum.

These indigenous initiatives are gradually taking centre stage, lifting the spirits of millions and giving balance to the lives of many vulnerable and displaced communities across the country.

Recently, a groundbreaking collaboration between the Nigerian Military and Briech Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) birthed the first and largest indigenous attack drones and bomb systems in Nigeria and Africa.

Unveiled at the company’s Abuja headquarters, this cutting-edge technology is being hailed by stakeholders as a potential game changer in the fight against insurgency and organised crime.

According to Mr Bright Echefu, Chairman of EIB Group and founder of Briech UAS, the innovation became imperative as extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP increasingly weaponised commercial drones to spy on troops, coordinate ambushes, and conduct aerial attacks.

“Our enemies are adapting fast; they are using off-the-shelf drones to launch crude but deadly strikes.

“We cannot afford to rely on outdated tools anymore,” he said.

Echefu said that as Nigeria continued to invest in indigenous defense manufacturing, the country might potentially become a player in defence and security issues of many countries.

Of interest, the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) characterises the Nigeria’s security situation as complex and deteriorating, citing armed banditry and widespread kidnappings as the leading causes of instability.

Available data indicates that in 2023 alone, more than 75 per cent of conflict-related deaths were reported in the northern region.

Attacks by Islamist groups, counter-insurgency operations, separatist tensions, and herder-farmer clashes continue to fuel widespread displacement and humanitarian distress.

The North-East, in particular, has seen entire communities fleeing for safety as armed groups impose levies and destroy essential infrastructure.

According to EUAA figures, more than 21,000 Nigerians applied for asylum in the EU+ between January 2023 and March 2024, signaling a troubling trend of migration driven by insecurity.

A security expert said Briech UAS’s new technology promised to enhance Nigeria’s ability to detect, deter, and respond to security threats in real-time.

“For the fast rising tech company, some features stand out an advanced surveillance and thermal imaging for wide-area monitoring, real-time intelligence gathering to support on-ground tactical operations, rapid response capabilities to intercept or neutralise threats before escalation and cost-effective, scalable solutions for ongoing border and community surveillance

“These drones also have potential applications beyond combat, such as disaster response, infrastructure inspection, and search-and-rescue efforts.

“As traditional security methods struggle to match the speed and complexity of modern threats, indigenous technological solutions like Briech’s are increasingly vital.

“The partnership with the Nigerian Army reflects a broader strategic shift—one that embraces innovation, local expertise, and adaptive warfare tactics to restore safety and rebuild public confidence.

“As Briech UAS positions Nigeria at the forefront of drone-powered security innovation in Africa, citizens and stakeholders alike are watching with cautious optimism there is a dim of light at the end of the tunnel,’’ he said.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the initiative as a significant step in Nigeria’s journey toward self-reliance in defence technology and national security enhancement.

He said that the innovation was a game-changer in an era of complex and asymmetric security threats, emphasising the significance of producing local military solutions, especially in the face of global politics and procurement challenges.

“These force multipliers will play a vital role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of our military, particularly in a world where global politics surrounding the procurement of advanced military hardware have become more intricate.’’

The CDS said that countries that did not produce such solutions faced bureaucratic bottlenecks and diplomatic hurdles when acquiring the critical platforms.

“We are facing such challenges directly, if you do not produce what you need, you will be at the mercy of others, even when you have the financial resources to acquire them,” he said.

He said that the drones would help Nigeria respond swiftly to security challenges, cutting down on dependence on foreign equipment.

In his submission at the unveiling, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau said that homegrown solutions had great impact for the country’s security needs.

He emphasised on the importance of protecting national sovereignty and safeguarding the country from activities of non-state actors.

“We have made a mistake by allowing non-state actors to acquire capabilities that rival those of state actors,” Mutfwang said.

He said that Plateau was actively working with local manufacturers like Briech UAS, with drones already deployed in the state, improving the effectiveness of security operations.

Deserving no less attention, Echefu, during a media tour of the firm’s security facilities, said that through innovation and advanced technology, Nigeria could handle its security challenges.

According to him, the company provides intelligence support for Nigeria’s security agencies though digital forensics, tracking and critical assets as well as supply of combat and surveillance drones.

He said it manufactured Arginin Reconnaissance Drones configured for high-performance reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

“The company also produces Arsenio BFLY and Xander Reconnaissance drones among other super precise attack drones that can navigate difficult environments.

“These systems are crucial in combating insurgent groups, adopting different drones for reconnaissance and attack missions.

“The primary purpose was to demonstrate the capabilities of the security apparatus deployed to fight insurgency, its potential is to enhance counter-insurgency operations and mitigate the threats posed by insurgent groups.

“The significance of this effort lies in stressing the potential of the equipment to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.’’

He said the tools would also improve force protection and reduce troop casualties by minimising reliance on manned reconnaissance missions.

According to him, the use of commercial drones by insurgent groups presents significant challenges for security forces.

“To address this, the security apparatus is leveraging technologies like drone detection and jamming systems, improved intelligence gathering, and counter-drone systems.

“The system will generate insights from the collected data, allowing for better decision-making and improved resource allocation.

“This system will provide at-a-glance dashboards showing the status and location of monitored items, including parameters like satellite imagery and intelligence gathering capabilities to support security agencies,’’ he said.

Echefu said with the right support and increased investment, indigenous companies had the capacity to provide the needed logistics support to the military in the fight against insecurity.

He acknowledged the support from government to the indigenous security firms and called for more policies to foster Nigerian companies’ growth, especially those in defence and security sector.

“I can tell you that I am not the only one that is into supporting the various sectors, by local activities, local productions; there is a lot going on. People are producing even tractors in Nigeria now.

“Nigeria has 100 per cent capacity right now to end this urgency with the number of local companies that are investing heavily.

“The Nigerian military strongly supports local manufacturers through research collaboration and support,” Echefu said.

Security analysts are of the view that more states should embrace drones for comprehensive surveillance, especially for hard-to-reach areas.

They say collaboration between the Nigerian Military and Briech will boost cross-border counter-terrorism operations and strengthen internal control over weapons systems and logistics. (NANFeatures)

 

 

DSS boss tasks security alumni on strategic policy roles
Defence/Security

DSS boss tasks security alumni on strategic policy roles

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Adeola Ajayi, has called on Alumni of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) to move beyond ceremonial affiliations and take up strategic roles in shaping national and continental security policies.

Ajayi, who was represented by his Deputy, Mrs Folashade Adekayaoja, made the call at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Alumni Association of NISS (AANISS), on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the evolving nature of Nigeria’s security threats demanded a more proactive and integrated response from security professionals across Africa.

He noted that the theme of the event, “Enhancing Alumni Impacts on National and Continental Security,” reflected the urgency of the time, especially with increasing cross-border threats such as terrorism, insurgency, cyber-insecurity, organized crime, and political instability.

“This meeting is not just a reunion, but a policy dialogue, a reflection on relevance, and a call to action,” the DG said.

Ajayi emphasised the strategic position of AANISS in shaping security discourse through advocacy, inter-agency cooperation, and operational leadership.

Ajayi proposed five key areas where the alumni body could enhance its impact: policy advocacy, institutional partnership, capacity building, professionalism in the security sector, and continental engagement.

“Your collective experience is a national asset.

“You must become a network of strategic influence and a reservoir of policy insight, technical competence, and operational experience,” he added.

The DSS boss urged the alumni to become more involved in mentoring, strengthening institutions, and participating in Africa’s peace and security architecture through research, training, and field collaboration.

He urged the alumni to see themselves as agents of policy innovation and national service, stating that Africa’s security future may hinge on their collective contributions.

The Chairman, Board of Trustee of AANISS, Mary Otubu, called on alumni to strengthen internal cohesion and leverage their strategic networks in advancing national security objectives.

Otubu, represented by Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Salisu, a member, Board of Trustees and Fellow of NISS, said the renewed collaboration between the BoT and the Executive Committee signaled a promising future for the body and its contributions to national development.

According to her, the AGM comes at a time when the relationship between the BoT and the Exco has been re-energised, with prospects for more impactful engagement.

Otubu reaffirmed the BoT’s commitment to upholding the values and mission of the Association, describing the alumni as a “collective repository of national security knowledge and capacity.

“As custodians of the Association’s assets, the BoT will work with the Exco towards the establishment of a permanent Secretariat as land has already been secured at a prime location in the city for that purpose,” she said.

Otubu also called on fellows to remain socially connected and use their networks to enhance the visibility and influence of the Association across the intelligence and security architecture, including engagements with the DSS, the National Security Adviser, and other stakeholders.

According to her, security is the most important guarantee for peace and development, urging members to channel their professional expertise toward practical solutions to Nigeria’s recurring security challenges.

The President of AANISS, Mr Mike Ejiofor, called on members to use their professional influence and platforms to enhance the visibility and impact of the association.

Ejiofor appreciated members for their continued commitment to the association, stating that their presence demonstrated loyalty and dedication to the body’s collective aspirations.

He emphasised the importance of financial contributions particularly the regular payment of annual dues which he described as the “lifeblood” of the association’s operations and growth.

He urged members to be proactive in supporting AANISS both financially and morally and to leverage their positions in government, business, and academia to attract opportunities and forge meaningful partnerships for the association.

“This is a clarion call for us to proudly wear our alumni identity and bring the name of AANISS into rooms where opportunities are being discussed,” Ejiofor said.

He expressed optimism that the meeting would foster fruitful deliberations and inspire renewed commitment toward the association’s long-term goals. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Traditional rulers, vital partners in community security – I-G
General News

Traditional rulers, vital partners in community security – I-G

Community
By Emmanuel Afonne
The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in safeguarding communities in the country.
Egbetokun who was represented by Mr Victor Olaiya, the Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of Police, in charge of Zone 7, said this at the opening of a three-day security training for community leaders on Tuesday in Abuja.
The training was organised specially for traditional rulers, local government administrators, and critical grassroots security stakeholders to strategise on the best way to tackle insecurity in local communities.
It was organised by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in collaboration with the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence as well as the Royal Gate International Institute for Security Studies and Leadership Advancement.
Egbetokun said the traditional institution must be seriously engaged to be able to confront the insecurity challenges militating against many communities in the country.
“Security cannot be compromised; security and economic development are like Siamese twins, they go together.
“Without security there cannot be development. This laudable commitment reflects the commitment of all stakeholders in enhancing community safety and deepening collaboration at grassroots level.
“The Nigeria Police believe that security is a collective responsibility and the active engagement of traditional institutions, local authorities and community stakeholders is vital in achieving sustainable peace and security across the country.
“Police will continue to support initiatives that promote security and strengthen trust between the police and the communities we serve,” Egbetokun said.
The Convener/Facilitator of the training, Prince Celestine Ekwe, said traditional institutions were targeted because of the important role traditional rulers and local government chairmen play in their localities.
“There is no day you will not hear about killings in the country and we should ask ourselves, for how long will this continue.
“The fact remains that if we fail to do something to stop these killings it will continue to go on, and nobody knows who will be the next.
“It is on this note that we should seek a lasting solution to this menace, and this training is aimed at proffering solutions to insecurity in our communities,” Ekwe said.

The Senate President, Mr Godswill Akpabio, who was represented by Sen. Muntari Dandutse, said that the National Assembly recognised the important role of the traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and community stakeholders, in maintaining peace and security in various communities.
“Your efforts are crucial in promoting stability and fostering safety among citizens. This training is supposed to enhance security and equip local authorities with skills to address security challenges.
“This is also expected to promote unity among security stakeholders and fashion strategy on the best way to respond and tackle insecurity in the country,” Akpabio said.
He said the Senate would support effective budgeting to improve security in the country.
The Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, said the tripartite engagement was necessary for the development and security of the nation.
Peters who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, NOUN, Prof. Isaac Butswat, said the institution was involved in the training because security had become everybody’s business.

Earlier, Malam Isa Yuguda, the Pro Chancellor of NOUN, and former Governor of Bauchi State, who delivered the keynote address, said it was high time the insecurity bedevilling the country was nipped in the bud.
Yuguda said the traditional rulers and local government chairmen can bring lasting solutions to the insecurity challenges in various communities if they synergise. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Nigeria can handle its security challenges – Echefu
General News

Nigeria can handle its security challenges – Echefu

By Tolu Aiyegbusi

A security expert, Dr Bright Echefu, says through innovation and advanced technology Nigeria can handle its security challenges.

Echefu, the Chairman of the EIB Group, said this on Wednesday during a media tour of the security facilities of the company.

The company provides intelligence support for Nigeria’s security agencies though digital forensics, tracking and critical assets as well as supply of combat and surveillance drones.

It manufactures Arginin Reconnaissance Drones configured for high-performance reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

The company also produces Arsenio BFLY and Xander Reconnaissance drones among other super precise attack drones that can navigate difficult environments.

“These systems are crucial in combating insurgent groups, adopting different drones for reconnaissance and attack missions.

“The primary purpose was to demonstrate the capabilities of the security apparatus deployed to fight insurgency, its potential is to enhance counter-insurgency operations and mitigate the threats posed by insurgent groups.

“The significance of this effort lies in stressing the potential of the equipment to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities,’’ he said.

Echefu said the tools would also improve force protection and reduce troop casualties by minimising reliance on manned reconnaissance missions.

“The use of commercial drones by insurgent groups presents significant challenges for security forces.

“To address this, the security apparatus is leveraging technologies like drone detection and jamming systems, improved intelligence gathering, and counter-drone systems.

“The system will generate insights from the collected data, allowing for better decision-making and improved resource allocation.

“This system will provide at-a-glance dashboards showing the status and location of monitored items, including parameters like satellite imagery and intelligence gathering capabilities to support security agencies,’’ he said.

Echefu also said with the right support and increased investment indigenous companies had the capacity to provide the needed logistics support to the military in the fight against insecurity.

While acknowledging the support from government to the indigenous security firms, he called for more policies to foster Nigerian companies’ growth, especially those in defence and security sector.

“I can tell you that I am not the only one that is into supporting the various sectors, by local activities, local productions. There is a lot going on. People are producing even tractors in Nigeria now.

“Nigeria has 100 per cent capacity right now to end this urgency with the number of local companies that are investing heavily.

“The Nigerian military strongly supports local manufacturers through research collaboration and support,” Echefu said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

FCT CP vows action on border security
Defence/Security

FCT CP vows action on border security

By Abigael Joshua

The Commissioner of Police in charge of the FCT, Mr Ajao Adewale, has reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to tightening border security to curb insecurity nationwide.

Adewale gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja at the 2025 Security Summit organised by the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), FCT Command.

The theme of the summit was “Enhancing Citizens’ Engagement and Community Security for National Security”.

He noted that securing Nigeria’s borders is crucial to addressing the root causes of insecurity.

He assured that the police, in collaboration with relevant agencies, would intensify surveillance and preventive measures across border communities.

“Porous borders are part of our problem. However, the issue of insecurity begins with the individual.

“When we speak of national security, it encompasses food security, spiritual security, job security, these are key components of what we define as national security.

“Unfortunately, we cannot tackle insecurity through mere lamentation or criticism,” he said.

According to him, Nigeria’s peculiar security environment makes it difficult to fight crime, as criminals resist being monitored.

“You are marketing a very difficult product. Criminals never want to be tracked. That is our challenge.

“Security is a collective responsibility. You don’t need to be a billionaire to contribute meaningfully to the issue of national security,” he said.

In his remarks, Chairman of the FCT PCRC, Dr Rufus Ebegba, said the nation must not allow evil forces to overrun the country.

“We must come together as citizens, align our thoughts and resources. Today’s gathering is a commitment that the PCRC stands ready to support the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to stamp out terrorism, harassment, rape, and kidnapping from our land,” he said.

Ebegba called the current situation a “serious security trauma” and urged citizens to provide intelligence and support needed to defeat criminal elements.

He urged all PCRC members to remain disciplined and law-abiding, warning that indiscipline would not be tolerated within the organisation.

“We will not allow terrorists to reign in our land. Their flags will never fly above the Nigerian flag. We must encourage and support our security forces to overcome intimidation from criminal elements,” he said.

Also speaking, Alhaji Mogaji Olaniyan, National Chairman of PCRC, reiterated the committee’s mandate to support the Nigeria Police in fighting crime nationwide.

He encouraged the FCT Command to organise more security summits and urged area command leaders to replicate similar forums in their communities.

Earlier, retired Commissioner of Police, Dr Emmanuel Ojukwu, stressed the need for active citizen engagement to strengthen national security.

“Our constitution requires every citizen to obey the law, pay taxes, and act as the eyes and ears of the country,” he said.

Highlights of the event included award presentations to 45 PCRC divisions, businesses, and hotels for their support in promoting security, as well as cultural dance performances by security personnel. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Food Security: Ndarani donates N30m to Foundation
Agriculture

Food Security: Ndarani donates N30m to Foundation

By Ebere Agozie

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mohammed Ndarani, has called for more empowerment of Nigerians with skills in education and agriculture for  sustainable development and food security.

Ndarani made the call on Saturday in Abuja at the ‘Colloquium on Agriculture’ and an Endowment Fund launch for the Etsu Yahaya Abubakar Foundation, where he also made a donation of N30 million.

The senior lawyer is a traditional title holder of Hukuncin Nupe and member Board of Trustees of the foundation, which is for the empowerment of the less privileged.

He said the foundation would be working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the rights of Nigerians are upheld, irrespective of their class.

“Every human has the right to adequate, sufficient, and healthy food, and this is stated in Article 11 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

“It is part of the fundamental objectives and directive principles of State policy, contained in Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to ensure that suitable and adequate food is provided for all citizens.

“Their rights to decent housing will also be upheld. Article 16(2) of the Constitution recognizes the right to adequate housing, socio-economic rights, rights to education and healthcare.

“The role of the foundation is all-encompassing which will help fight poverty from all angles,’’ he said.

The learned silk reiterated that the foundation would leverage on the untapped potential of Nigerian youths to serve as a catalyst to the economic growth and development of Nigeria.

“The foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people through various programmes, including education, community development, health and wellness, poverty alleviation, scholarship and skill development, community infrastructure, food security, and economic growth.

“Our intervention will empower farmers and agric-preneurs to reinforce agriculture as a viable economic driver in the country.

“The goal is to empower people to become independent and be able to take care of their individual needs.’’

Ndarani emphasised the importance of empowering youths through skills acquisition and employment opportunities.

He also expressed hope that Niger state’s development success would serve as a benchmark for replication across the country.

He commended Gov. Umar Bago for his tireless efforts to drive progress and development in the state, which have greatly benefited its people.

“I commend the governor for his outstanding leadership and commitment to the development of Niger State. His respect for traditional institutions, particularly the Etsu Nupe and other traditional rulers.”

He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Etsu Nupe for his wisdom and dedication to promoting peace and development in Nupeland, Niger State, and Nigeria.

Etsu Nupe and Chairman Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr Yahaya Abubakar, said the event was for stakeholders to brainstorm and proffer solutions to the teething problems deterring the development of agriculture in Nigeria.

“Our primary aim is to establish a foundation that caters for the indigent in the areas of Education, health, Youth and Women empowerment, among others.

“We align this foundation’s objectives with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at driving economic growth, enhancing living standards, and fostering national development.’’

He commended the partnerships between Silicon Valley Nigeria, NYSC, and the Niger Government on agricultural projects, adding that it has the potential for transformative initiatives in the sector. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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