Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a large consignment of Loud, a synthetic strong strain of cannabis, concealed in giant loudspeakers tucked in a consolidated cargo imported from New York, United States of America.

A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, revealed that when the giant wooden boxes dressed as sound speakers seized by NDLEA officers at the NAHCO import shed of the Lagos airport, were opened, the sound boxes were stuffed with 60 bags of the expensive but highly sought-after psychoactive substance, Loud, weighing 33.5 kilogrammes.

Babafemi said at least, three suspects: a freight agent Akeem Afeez; logistics company manager Babalola Ayodeji Gboyega and the receiver of the consignment Taiwo Anuoluwapo have been arrested in follow-up operations between last Thursday and Friday, while Afeez was arrested at the airport, Gboyega was nabbed at his office on Allen Avenue Ikeja and Taiwo traced to his residence at 13 Ayo Babatunde Crescent, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, where he was picked on Friday.

The spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, said in Abia, a joint raid operation between the NDLEA and men of the State Homeland Security at 23 Arochukwu street, Umuahia around 11pm last Wednesday led to the arrest of a female lawyer, Adaobi Nweke, 36; her boyfriend, Emeka Nkemefola, 36; her mother, Mrs. Ngozi Nweke, 65; Dike Okpara, 43, who is herbalist to the family; Chukwudi Abel, 33, member of the family; Amarachi Paul, 18, another member of the family and their 22-year-old salesgirl, Blessing Jonathan.

He said investigations revealed that members of the family had long been in the illicit drug business passed on to them by their deceased father, Jonathan Nweke. He noted that recovered from them as at the time of their arrest include various quantities of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, Loud, cannabis sativa and precursor chemical with a total weight of 1.67 kilogrammes as well as N578,400 monetary exhibit.

Babafemi also disclosed that an attempt by a 25-year-old Uber driver, Joshua Henry to deliver a consignment of 26.2 grammes of Loud picked in Abuja to a customer in Keffi, Nasarawa state last Monday was thwarted by NDLEA operatives who intercepted him. In the same vein, 54-year-old Dada Adedara was last Wednesday arrested at Dan Bare area of Kano State with 468 blocks of cannabis weighing 246.4 kilogrammes. Same day, operatives in Ogun state arrested the duo of Kafayat Junaid and Sakirat Osoanu with 13 kilogrammes cannabis sativa.

In Kogi state, a suspect, Charles Chike, 45, was arrested by NDLEA operatives in a hotel in Lokoja last Friday with 290 blocks of compressed cannabis weighing 116 kilogrammes. The exhibit was concealed in the boot of a blue Honda Accord car marked Abuja ABC 853 SL, which took off from somewhere in Ekiti state enroute Abuja. Not less than 227 kilogrammes of same substance was recovered from Atoshi camp, Emure -Ile, Owo local government area, Ondo State, while two suspects: John Jonathan and Emmanuel Alex were arrested.

Babafemi said operatives in Edo state acting on intelligence last Wednesday intercepted a consignment of methamphetamine coming from Onitsha, Anambra state to Lagos, in a Toyota Sienna bus marked Anambra NZM 347 ZL. The meth consignment weighing 0.966 kilogrammes was concealed inside a cassava made local food item, African salad popularly called “Abacha”. The driver of the vehicle, Afamefuna Ibeawuchi, 42, was arrested in connection with the seizure. On the same day, a team of NDLEA officers also intercepted a Peugeot 406 space wagon car driven by Akhere Fardam, 47, along Uromi road in Esan Northeast local government area. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 865 bottles of codeine; 2,600 pills of tramadol and 600 tabs of swinol and rohypnol.

In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, NDLEA operatives conducted raid operations in Kubwa area during which they arrested Tawa Wasiu, 47, and Iliya Ibrahim, 18, with 10.5 kilogrammes cannabis, 13.5 grammes of diazepam and 2.9 grammes of tramadol tablets. Another suspect, Yaro Bala, 27, was arrested on Thursday 15th Feb. with 50.5 kilogrammes cannabis during a stop and search operation along Abaji/Abuja highway on his way from Auchi Edo state to Paiko, Niger State.

He added that various commands of the agency across the country
continued with the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign in the past week.

Meanwhile, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) while commending the officers and men of the MMIA, Abia, Nasarawa, Edo, Kogi, Kano, Ogun, Ondo and FCT commands of the agency for their outstanding feats in the past week, equally applauded their counterparts in all the commands across the country for intensifying their WADA advocacy lectures thus creating a fair balance between their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.

By: Dr. James Bwala

With the rhetoric around the economy and security situation in the country, those blaming the government have failed to look at the history and those involved in it that brought Nigeria to its current predicament. The eight-year rule of the Buhari regime has given birth to criminality with untold consequences for Nigeria, but many who are now speaking ill of the Tinubu and Shettima administration are deliberately shying away from that creation, now biting the fabric covering the nakedness of Nigeria as a people and nation.

The fingers pointing at the present economic and security situation never consider some big names flooring on the pages of newspapers, both living and dead, who have melted the economy of this country and secured insecurity to this heights that left tears around and in many families who lost loved ones to banditry and other criminality.

Since May 29, 2023, I have gone through the pages of informed newspapers in the country and read success stories of greater achievements in security operations by our soldiers, police, the DSS, and other security agencies. But critics, as they are, are not quoting some of these successes to encourage the government and say we are with you in this movement. They would rather omit these achievements in their narrations to make the devil out of the new administration that, during Buhari’s time, they told us to be patient with when, in six months, the country was without a minister and nothing seemed to be moving in the face of the same security and economic challenges.

In the North, they say it is our own. And so, nobody speaks ill of the Buhari regime, despite its failure in all phases at the time. Those who reflected back at the Good Luck administration to make comparisons to Buhari’s government are seen as anti-north.

The community of the northern leaders has rallied around the regime to not allow the nakedness of the government to be seen by outsiders. They preach the sermon of never washing your dirty lining in public places, though in the closets they are gnashing their teeth in anguish and regret that their roars are eating them while they watch. Those who dare the government are shown the way to Kuje prison, and those who do not want to go that way retract their shells and watch with hopelessness.

Before the 2023 general elections that brought the victory for Tinubu and Kashim Shettima, Nigerians witnessed the shocking twist in both the security and economic situation, anchored by very few individuals in Buhari’s archery.

Recently, the Lagos elderstateman, Chief Bode George, was trending on a video calling on the government to invite three Nigerians for questioning. One of them was late but opened a ten billion naira retirement home at less than sixty years old. One was circling around the courtroom and prison since the Tinubu and Shettima administration closed on him, and the other, according to Chief Bode George, was a floor boy in the banking hall before rising to prowess.

There are others nitting to the immediate past regime of Buhari, which the current administration seemed to be taking careful steps to cover around them. Perhaps long before a comment credited to a former military ruler in the country.

A statement recently credited to the former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, asked President Tinubu to be careful to avoid military takeover. I believe the former military ruler has the ears of some military commanders in service, and his entreaty should be positively anchored to preaching democracy and rule of law so Nigeria should not derailed.

A man of such vintage should caution at the close door and not allow an air of a few words to fall into the ears of some power-hungry morons because what hatches the eggs is the constant daily warmth that comes from a light bulb. Tinubu and Kashim Shettima have fought big battles to come thus far in their careers as politicians.

Today, they are leading Nigeria to get to the promised land, and it is not only about them and their families. It is also about over two hundred million Nigerians moving together to reach a goal. It could take forty days or forty years, depending on the faith we carry and our decision not to murmur at every inch.

Since the Nigerian journey is not about Tinubu or Shettima but a movement of over 200 million people towards a goal, I feel it is rather in the interest of all to rally around the government to support it. Since the onset of the administration, Nigerians have applauded their choice of individuals for service chiefs and other credible appointments.

Of course, no kingdom arrangement is complete without the Judas; we have seen a few of them, and the administration did creditably well in doing the needful. A case of the humanitarian minister and more are coming. This shows the seriousness of this administration in dealing with the Nigerian people by the books they swore on oath.

Those who want to criticize Tinubu or the VP, Kashim Shettima, over the current economic and security situation should do so with good intentions and help the government by offering solutions. They should do so with facts to praise and to condemn. The government is open to criticism, but positive criticism is what builds a nation.

The economic and security situation will fizzle out when we all go back to the drawing board to trace the actions and inactions of the past that led to the current situation. Tinubu and Kashim Shettima mean well, and we can do well to support them and Nigeria. As leaders, they should also be encouraged to give their best to building the nation. So, we can all reach the promised land.

I believe as many Nigerians had hope to have a peaceful country free of security situations and greater economic revival, both Tinubu and Kashim Shettima are on the same page with Nigerians because there is no other country where we can all be proud of like Nigeria. If we come together to support the government, we can tailor this fabric of economy and insecurity to a desired shape that will be pleasing to all. Dear compatriots, let us come together to do as we say in our anthem.

• James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has lamented that with the current insecurity in the country it would be difficult to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Speaking at the 7th International Conference on Love and Tolerance in Nigeria themed “Harmony through Compassion: Embracing Diversity in Pursuit of Peace,” the Director-General of Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (lPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, said the present situation of things in the country
has deprived Nigeria of the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals and therefore calls for a concrete action.

He said there is the need for Nigerians to embrace love, tolerance for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.

Ochogwu noted that the world is currently facing a plethora of security and developmental challenges ranging from socio-economic downturn to widening poverty chasms, marginalization, inequality, climate change, violent conflicts, and deep socio-political and ethno-religious polarizations.

He decried that: “Nigeria continues to contend with heightened tension and violent confrontations resulting from the inability of people of diverse religions and cultural practices to manage their diversity.

“The activities of corrupt political leaders in promoting nepotism, tribalism, marginalization, inequality and lack of inclusion in the distribution of commonwealth, have further worsened the state of diversity management in the country.

“In other words, the resourcefulness and galvanizing power of diversity has not been fully utilized in the nation as our divergent opinions, values, and political linings have oftentimes been exploited for selfish gain as well as serve as triggers of bigotry, inter-group cleavages, instability, and underdevelopment.

“This development has deprived Nigeria of the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals and therefore calls for a concrete action.

“It is a potent reminder of the enormity of the task before us as stakeholders in the peace project,” he added.

The DG said the commitment of all peace and security stakeholders can reverse this ugly trend particularly as we play our individual and institutional roles in effective management of diversity in the country for peaceful coexistence, stability and development.

Also speaking, President Ufuk Dialogue, Mr Emrah Ilgen, said that In a world with many different beliefs and cultures, it’s important to understand how love and tolerance can bring us together.

He said: “Love helps us connect with each other, no matter our differences. It encourages us to be kind and understanding, which is crucial for building a global community.

“Tolerance is about accepting that everyone is unique and has their own story. It means being open to learning from others and respecting their differences. By being tolerant, we can bridge gaps between people who see the world differently.

“To make the world more loving and tolerant, we must address issues like prejudice and discrimination. These problems often come from not understanding or fearing what is different.
We can overcome them by promoting education and creating spaces for open conversations.

“Let’s work towards societies where love and tolerance are not just ideas but part of our everyday lives. This means standing up for justice, equality, and human rights. By challenging our own biases and embracing diversity, we can build a world where everyone feels valued and respected.”

He further stated that: “Love and tolerance are not passive-they require us to take action. By practising kindness and acceptance, we can make a difference in our communities and pave the way for a brighter future.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas who was represented by
Hon. Usman Bello, said that Nigeria as a cosmopolitan society must try to appreciate the existence of other people.

He said: “Compassion is to accept other people. Until we accept, we cannot appreciate other people.We must all come together and discuss tolerance and compassion. Unless we come out of myopic thinking, we are not going to achieve what God intends for us.”

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated his Bayelsa counterpart, Senator Douye Diri and his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor, on their inauguration for second term on Wednesday.

Governor Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Wednesday, said that Diri’s emergence for another term in office was epoch-making.

He lauded Diri for his Prosperity vision for Bayelsans which, according to him, would engender the sustainable growth and development of the state.

Oborevwori said that the “overwhelming victory and peaceful conduct of the election” would spur Governor Diri to do more for Bayelsans who massively gave him a resounding mandate.

He commended Diri for his message of unity and for deepening transparency and accountability in governance.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate Governor Douye Diri and his amiable and loyal Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor, on their inauguration for second term in office for a second term.

“The Bayelsa Governorship election of November 11, 2023, testified to your undying and patriotic resolve to put the interest of the people before other primordial ones.

“I am impressed and encouraged by your call for a united Bayelsa state, going into to your second term in office. The call is germane because no society can develop in an atmosphere of disunity.

“I commend you for keeping with the priorities and goals of your prosperity agenda to create wealth among your people, even as you continue to build sustainable infrastructure for the growth and development of Bayelsa State.

“I am quite confident that your re-election and assumption of office for a second term will pave the way for you to do more for the people of Bayelsa in appreciation of their massive support for you.”

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite has expressed the need to work with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to boost diaspora investments in the Country.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Minister said she will create a full department called “Catalytic Investment Unit” in the Ministry to accommodate all diaspora related matters.

The Minister commended NiDCOM, partnering with the private sector-led Nigerian Diaspora Summit initiative (NDSI) to organise the Nigerian Diaspora Investment summit, which has provided a platform for Nigerians who want to invest .

She said the Ministry would synergise with NiDCOM and NDSI to make the summit even stronger , in-line with the Ministry’s investment initiatives and policies.

The Minister said “I have been charged by Mr President to look for inward investment into the country. NiDCOM has saved me from starting from the scratch. We will build on your platform and work together”.

Uzoka-Anite described the Diaspora as a great potential for investment who are passionate about their country and willing to invest without too many conditions or demands.

The Minister added that the ministry can support Diaspora Investment by designing and creating different investment channels, negotiating long term investment opportunities, propose removal of taxes on dividends and provide extra security arrangement on Diaspora investment and even work together to push bills to be sponsored by the National Assembly.

Earlier, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, had called for more synergy between the Commission and the Ministry to enhance Diaspora Direct Investment.

The NiDCOM boss used the opportunity to brief the Minister on the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) which had been hosted in Abuja six times.

“We have some requests which include creating incentives for the Diaspora coming back home to invest, partnering to implement the Diaspora Investment Trust Fund and establishing a Diaspora Desk in the Ministry” Dabiri-Erewa said.

In attendance were the duo of Amb. Bolaji Akinremi, Director of Trade and Investment in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Amb. Nura Abba-Rimi, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment as well as members of NDIS team.

Civil society organisations have demanded transparency and accountability in the implementation of the nation’s health budget.

The organisation drawn from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), cluster members across the seven focal states of the project, key government agencies and the media, noted that the dwindling resources of government is a reason why stakeholders must demand for transparency and accountability in the implementation of the health budget.

The Lead Director of the Centre for Social Justice, Barr Eze Onyekpere who welcomed everyone to the summit held in Abuja on Tuesday, noted that while the advocacy for more money to health will be continued, stakeholders must also demand that more healthcare be delivered from the available resources.

He also noted that strategies must de deployed to increase the absorptive capacities of the health MDAs and put an end to the incidence of high unspent funds despite declining health indicators.

The Right To Health Cluster of civil society organizations anchored by the Centre for Social Justice held a civil society summit on the implementation of the 2024 health budget, drawing participants from the Centre for Social Justice, cluster members across the seven focal states of the project, key government agencies and the media.

The National Health Insurance Authority represented by Joy Egharevba and Ukoh Eberechi presented a paper on the “Mandatory Health Insurance Under the NHIA ACT: What Next? The paper highlighted the major highlights of the NHIA Act 2022 to include clearly defined roles and relations between stakeholders; provision for mandatory health insurance; provision for the Vulnerable Group Fund; modifications to the composition of the Governing Council; and recognition of the State Social Health Insurance Agencies.

The Federal Ministry of Health represented by Idris Galadima also made a presentation on the implementation of the 2024 federal health budget.

At the end of the summit, following recommendations were made: “The immediate funding and take-off of the Vulnerable Group Fund should be done. A huge percentage of Nigerians are poor and vulnerable and cannot be left out of health insurance coverage. The NHIA should liase with other MDAs of the federal government to achieve this.

“A definite and clear roadmap for actualizing the compulsory health insurance should be developed and implemented. The compulsory nature of health insurance should not only be in the books, but should also be put into practice.

“Increased advocacy and awareness creation on health insurance should be done.

“The NHIA should strengthen monitoring and evaluation activities as it concerns health insurance service delivery to enrollees/beneficiaries at the health facilities.

“The Nigerian Governors’ Forum, traditional and religious leaders should be further engaged to promote & support sensitization programmes and activities on health insurance at the sub-national Level.

“The Federal Ministry of Health should deploy adequate steps to ensure that it fully utilizes the funds released to it for the delivery of healthcare services in Nigeria. The practice of returning huge unspent funds does not speak well of the ministry, hence this practice must not repeat itself in the utilization of the 2024 health budget. Procurement and other policy reforms that would fast track procurement processes should be done. This will increase the absorptive capacity for funds utilization and enhance efficiency and service delivery.

“The allocation of only 4.64% of the total budget size to the federal ministry of health falls short of the 15% target of the Abuja Declaration. Civil society organizations should support the federal ministry of health to advocate for an increase in the share of the budget dedicate to healthcare.

“The ministry of health and all her departments and agencies should increase the level of transparency and accountability through enhanced oversight supervision of her projects.

“The Ministerial Oversight Committee of the BHCPF should devise technological methods (electronic fund tracking mechanisms) to enhance transparency and accountability of the disbursed funds.

“Well-meaning individuals and corporate organizations should be encouraged to contribute to the BHCPF to achieve its objectives and goals.”

The Development Director for the British High Commission, Nigeria, Ms Cynthia Rowe, together with Kaduna State Governor. Uba Sani have signed the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (K-MAF).

The signing earmarked the revitalised commitment to support good governance, human capital development with a focus on Health, Education, Social protection, economic recovery, and poverty reduction for the state.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, Nigeria, first entered the mutual accountability relationship with the Kaduna government in June 2021, under the leadership and administration of Mallam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai.

The newly revised framework, according to a statement on Friday, focuses on the mandate to reduce poverty through economic growth, good governance, and investment in people; via a State-led ownership commitment focused on results, accountability, and transparency; and with the support from FCDO through technical assistance.

During the signing, the Development Director for the British High Commission, Nigeria, Cynthia Rowe, said: “Today’s signing reaffirms our commitment to the plans included and outlined in the framework, and to working closely with the Kaduna Governor, His Excellency Senator. Uba Sani to achieve these.

“Together, we will work to fulfil the ‘offers’ and ‘asks’ of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability document; over the next 12 months.

“We very much look forward to continuing the work in the state – both with government and civil society – to enhance prosperity within the state.”

The Federal Government is to collaborate with the Indian Government on geospatial mapping and technical expertise exchange, remote sensing, carbon mapping, and auto imagery.

The collaboration with the Indian government is to be undertaken by Nigeria through the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation.

This was made known when the Surveyor-General, Surv. Abuduganiyu Adebomehin received the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Gangadharan
Balasubramanian on Friday.

The Indian High Commissioner stated that the reason for the visit was to seek collaboration on behalf of the Surveyor General Office of India and the government of Nigeria on the new geospatial policy inaugurated by India, by reaching out to major countries.

He highlighted India’s strength in remote sensing and space capabilities due to the satellite coverage of the country for geographical mapping. He stated that Hydrography, Remote Sensing, Surveying training, and technical expertise exchange are key areas in which both countries can work together.

The Ambassador reiterated the use of Artificial Intelligence to provide auto imagery as India has a high resolution of images. Hence, the proposed collaboration with Nigeria, so there can be harmonization of data sets. He looked forward to receiving a copy Memorandum of Understanding from Nigeria.
He said that India is ready for a partnership and cooperation with Nigeria, and he assured that the pending Memorandum of Understanding on Hydrography between India and Nigeria which is pending would be attended to soon.

Responding, Surveyor-General of the Federation described the office as the only one that defines Nigeria. He affirmed the office is very much available for collaboration in the geospatial area, leveraging India’s strength in joint mapping using their imagery and other related matters. He said now that the Indian government has established its geospatial data infrastructures while Nigeria is still trying to establish its own that is the area the two countries can collaborate.

He said Nigeria can take advantage of India’s satellite to capture the carbon underground and its location so that Nigeria can be proud of what they have. “Another area of the proposal I want India to come in is the area of Agriculture, to see how India’s geospatial data can be applied in the area of foods production and security,” he said.

He said that the office had benefitted from the India technical expertise training in the past and appealed for the reactivation of training as human capacity development is key. He promised that the collaboration would be pursued with all vigour to see how it could be beneficial to both countries.

The Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), Prince Paul Ikonne, has urged other stakeholders to emulate the efforts of the Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, in reviving agriculture, which he said is in line with President Tinubu’s agricultural agenda for food security.

Mr. Ikonne said, “I want to call on all other stakeholders to quickly key into this agricultural revolution of Mr. President by adopting the method of the Governor of Borno State, the method of unconditional land donation, and the method of total commitment.”

He added, “This is the mission and mindset of the President, and you are worthy of our commendation, Mr. Governor.”

Mr Ikonne made the call on Thursday during the inauguration of projects executed by NALDA in Jere Local Government Area in Central Borno.

The ES expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum for the support he has been rendering to NALDA and assured continuous partnership with the Government of Borno State.

“I thank you, Mr. Governor, for your support for agriculture, your support for development. Borno is a catchment area because of your disposition. NALDA will continue to partner with Borno State because Borno has the potential that is required to develop food production and achieve food security in Nigeria,” Mr. Ikonne said.

Speaking after inaugurating NALDA’s rural housing scheme, Zulum commended Mr. Ikonne for choosing Borno to execute such projects, noting that it will contribute to the economic development of the state.

“Let me use this opportunity to commend the hardworking Executive Secretary of NALDA for all his initiatives that are geared towards creating employment and means of livelihood for the people,” Zulum said.

The housing scheme comprises 120 housing units and livelihood support for the beneficiaries selected from among those affected by the insurgency.

About 120 heads of households benefitted, and each received a house, mattresses, other household materials, 2 she-goats, and a buck each.

Delivering the opening remarks, Borno State Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engr. Bawu Musami, urged Governor Zulum to consider the establishment of a drip irrigation system to encourage communities around the facillity on water management methods in farming.

He further called on the beneficiaries to make good use of the facilities to develop themselves and their families, and contribute to the economic development of the state.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso who recently announced their withdrawal from the subregional bloc to have a rethink and follow the path of dialogue and reconciliation.

The Chairman of the Mediation and Security Council at the Ministerial Level and Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar while insisting that the choice of the three countries would only hurt the people, when responding to questions at the end of the sub-region extra ordinary session of the Council.

Tuggar regretted that the decision of the three Sahelian countries under military rule would only add to increase hardship to their citizens, insisting that the path of
diplomacy and dialogue remains the only route out of the quagmire.

He said: “ECOWAS is for the citizens, that is why it is called the economic community. So there’s emphasis on community. And for that reason, ECOWAS maintains the path, the avenue of dialogue, of conciliation of diplomacy and that is what has further been reaffirmed here.

” And for us, is quite cognizant of the fact that this intention of the three countries namely Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to exit ECOWAS would bring more hardship and will do more harm to the common citizens of those three countries.

“That is not good, and that is why we continue to urge those three countries to remain and follow the path of dialogue and reconciliation. And ECOWAS is going to redouble its efforts towards diplomacy towards dialogue towards reconciliation”

Tuggar on the implication of the decisions of the three countries to the integration process, said it was just a hiccup to the integration process of the continent, stressing that: “It’s not enough to just think that because of this development, that’s it. It means integration has been derailed, far from it.

“This is just a minor hiccup. And we’re talking about 54 countries and even with this hiccup the integration has already started and ECOWAS gone further than a lot of other parts of Africa in terms of integration. So the number of citizens from the three countries living in the rest of ECOWAS (countries), even in this building (ECOWAS headquarters) the number of people from those countries that work in ECOWAS not to talk of the continuous movement of people. The seasonal migration which takes place across the region, these are all things that you cannot just undo overnight, so you know, it takes more than pronouncements.”

He added that: “ECOWAS continues to emphasise good governance, strengthening institutions, and one of the decisions taken here was on the issue of the ECOWAS standby force to combat terrorism, the need to put it, activated as quickly as possible. As you know, the issue of terrorism presents an existential threat to all the countries in the community, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. And it’s important to also bear in mind that ECOWAS in spite of the sanctions, has continued, during the course of this period, to render support in different forms to these countries when it comes to the issue of fighting terrorism.”

On his part, President of ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray while responding to the allegation that
ECOWAS has deviated from.the tenets of its founding fathers,said: “We have moved to ECOWAS of the people and people are asking for accountable governments, democratic governance. ECOWAS needs to reflect the aspirations of the people.

“ECOWAS is alive to the demands of the population. And I think we all agree, each and every one of us aspire to have accountable government, governments chosen by people.

“And this is why ECOWAS has revised its various instruments to reflect those demands and reflected the aspiration of the people.

” I don’t think it is the will of the people of ECOWAS to move away from democratic principles, to move away from transparency, to move away from popular participation in governance. This is what ECOWAS stands for. And we will continue to work with each and every member state of ECOWAS to promote those ideas.”

The Palestine on Thursday has described as unacceptable Israeli continued refusal to transfer their clearance fund for the third month in a row, lamenting that this has deeply affected the country’s ability to pay the monthly salaries and government daily running cost.

Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdullah Abu Shawesh, gave the description during a press conference in Abuja.

He said this is one of the injustice by the Israeli government who have continued to bombard Gaza, noting that Palestinians have resolved not to give up in their fight against massacre by Israeli force in Gaza Strip until other powerful countries backing Israeli call for Israeli ceasefire.

He maintained that Palestine would continue to remain committed to the prisoners, martyrs and to their people in the Gaza Strip by virtue of their national, religious and moral responsibility.

Shawesh decried that the refusal of Israel to transfer their clearance fund for the third month has set back all macro-economic measurements and micro-economics activities, pushing more Palestinian families below the poverty line and causing the unemployment rate way up.

He lamented that “this is the 125th day of the Israel genocide, massacre, revenge war in Gaza Strip and our priorities are to stop Israeli brutal military aggression and securing the delivery of appropriate humanitarian aid to the Gazans.”

He emphasized the Palestinian Prime Minister, Dr Mohamed Shetiah saying that: “There will not be a State in Gaza, and there will not be a State Without Gaza.”

He said while USA and other countries are discussing the aftermath of the war, Israeli has taken a firm stance refusing the Palestinian Authority (PNA) to rule Gaza.

He explained that PNA in the Gaza Strip has 50,000 employees, including security personal who stopped working, doctors, teachers and other State employees in the administration.

He said: “In this particular issue, l would like to stress that Gaza is an essential part of the occupied Palestinian territories, and we never left the Gaza Strip. We are responsible for managing various aspects of daily life in the Gaza Strip, such as water and electricity, 35% of the government budget is allocated to the Gaza Strip, even though there are no revenues from it.

“On the 125th day of the massacre, genocide, revenue, war, Israeli military aggression or any other name, but not Hama’s Israeli war, unless you want to follow Western-Israeli propaganda, have accepted the brainwashing process and/or are fully complicit, the number coming from Occupied Palestinian Territories are totally horrific as followed:

“On Gaza Strip, 27.487 are officially registered as martyrs with more than 66,835 sounded and 8,000 still missing under the rubble. 7,000 if the sounded are in desperate need of intensive medical treatment outside the Gaza Strip. More than 1,650,00 people have been displaced in Rafah, which means that the area is now home to majority of Gaza’s population, making it the densest place in the world.

“Two State solution is an essential part of the birth certificate of the Siamese twins called the State of Palestine and the State of Israel as outlined in the 181 UNGA Resolution November 29, 1947. Theorizing about the two State solution is not just about spouting empty words without practical steps or embody the State of Palestine on the ground.

“The two State solution means dismantling all the illegal Israeli settlement in the Occupied West Bank, including Occupied East Jerusalem.”

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) has declared all round war against drug barons, instructing all commanders of the agency at different level to go all out and smoke out those still in hiding.

He as well ordered for the dismantling of all drug cartels as part of ongoing efforts to totally cut off drug supply which he insisted would drastically reduced growing insecurity and criminalities in the country.

Marwa gave the charge in his meeting with directors and all commanding officers of the agency at the national headquarters of the NDLEA in Abuja, where he commended them for the unprecedented successes achieved so far and tasked them not to rest on their oars.

He said no effort must be spared to remove illicit drug equation from the security challenges facing the country.

According to him, “Within the limit of our resources, we have been able to push boundaries. The statistics of our operations, empirical facts from the field, the general anti-illicit drug climate we have built and the rapport between us and our domestic and international partners, all speak volumes about how we are faring, especially against the backdrop of where we are coming from, of what the situation used to be a few years ago.
“Commendations apart, we also cannot afford not to tell ourselves the plain truth; we still have a long way to go. Hence commanders, officers and men of NDLEA can’t afford to rest on their oars.

“Yes, we have kept the flag of performance flying, but there’s still room for improvement. There is still much to do. And we cannot afford to be complacent now as we have committed to a lot of ongoing efforts to improve our operational capabilities. We are constantly engaging stakeholders within and outside the country to support and help optimise our capabilities. So, if anything, our performance should justify these ongoing efforts. We need to remind ourselves that to achieve our mandate, professionalism and discipline must be maintained at all times and in all our operations.

“We’re working with relevant authorities for improved funding so that we can comprehensively and holistically play our role as part and parcel of the solution to the security challenges facing the nation because if we are able to totally cut the access to and availability of drugs to the criminals, we would have effectively tampered with their nefarious activities and so we’re going to plead for enhanced funding to do more things in support of the fight against insecurity and I trust that the President will give us a listening ear because he’s interested in the progress of the NDLEA.

“This year, we want to raise the bar of our performance and this calls for commanders who are up to the task to be up and doing on the job. We must clean our streets and communities of illicit substances. We all are witnesses to the upsurge in the cases of kidnapping and such vices, this means NDLEA must remain upstanding. For those who have been watching and listening, recently, there is another demand by kidnappers and bandits aside money, which is drugs. In that sense, it means NDLEA is working because they don’t ask for it before, meaning that they’re no longer as available as they used to be and the prices of those available have gone beyond their reach.”

He charged the commanders to always ensure that the corporate integrity of the agency is always protected in all they do. He said: “Therefore, every command must shun any act capable of bringing into disrepute the hard-earned reputation of NDLEA. Where inappropriate actions occur, the management certainly will not overlook it. There will be penalties, just as there are rewards for good conduct, hard work and results. Now, the onus is on every commander to ensure the protection of our corporate integrity.”

While assuring that he remains committed to staff welfare including conducive work environment, allowances, remuneration and entitlements, and the basic welfare package, he asked the commanders to replicate such in their various commands.

He however warned that Commanders will have to justify their retention in Command positions with their performance.
“We have applied meritocracy to the rank and file; it is also fair to apply the same standard to the leadership. The implication for commanders is that your retention in command positions will henceforth be measured by your performance, which will be reviewed every quarter. In the new NDLEA, there is no room for laggards, and there are no excuses for laxity. Where there is a clear deficit of leadership, at zonal, state or area command, the agency will not hesitate to review and make a change of leadership, if necessary. This year, we want to raise the bar of our performance and that calls for having commanders who are up to the task.

“Our jobs are clearly defined: We must clean our streets and communities of illicit substances. Therefore, go and perform and let’s see greater results in the weeks ahead. And I assure you that at any time, you need backup, we are here to provide the necessary reinforcement. On this note, I want to implore commanders to let us keep our eyes on the ball. Let’s be prepared to work hard in 2024 and achieve unprecedented goals.”

As Foreign Affairs Ministers of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) meet to deliberate on how to move ahead after the with withdrawal of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso from the bloc, the ECOWAS Commission President, Alieu Touray said now is the time for unity among all Member States.

He said: “If there is a time for ECOWAS to stay together, this is the time … There is no challenge that ECOWAS cannot overcome”.

Also for deliberation at the Extraordinary Session of the Mediation and Security Council at Ministerial level is the announced postponement of Senegal General Election.

Speaking at the opening session of the meeting, Touray said the meeting will consider the notification of withdrawal of the three countries and there wider implications.

Touray stressed that as a community, now is the best time for the sub-region to stay together despite the challenges, while reminding the gathering that ECOWAS is not an institution but a community.

He said the claims given by the countries have no real basis and hasty.

Touray said, ” Despite our collective efforts to create a conducive and
peaceful environment for our community citizens, the facts on the ground
show that we still have some more work to do collectively.

“Excellencies, while we were hoping to make more progress on transitions in terms of elections this year in these countries, it is really sad to note the unfortunate turn of events, as three member States – Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger –announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS “with immediate effect” through a joint-communiqué signed by
representatives of all three countries on 28th January 2024.

Touray who noted that the claims of the three countries have no real basis, said “the hasty decision of withdrawal of membership of ECOWAS did not take into account the conditions for withdrawal of membership from ECOWAS, as espoused
in the 1993 ECOWAS Revised Treaty.

“But more importantly, the three
Member States have not really reflected on the implications of this decision on the citizens. “

He therefore said the Extraordinary Session of the Mediation and Security Council at Ministerial level should look into the wider implications of the withdrawal for the concerned Member States and the
Community at large. “

Touray also condemned the postponement of the Senegal’s general elections, saying “these unfolding events in the region are posing threats to peace and political stability in our Community.”

AU Commission Chairperson who was represented by Ambassador Bankole Adeoye said the withdrawal is a set back to the vision of integration of the region.

Adeoye noted that this is a trying times for the sub-region, adding that the AU Commission was convinced that the countries will continue to dialogue and cooperate with ECOWAS.

In his Opening remark, Nigeria Foreign Affiars Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, said: “Our meeting here today provides us the opportunity to carefully assess the challenges presented by the decision of the military rulers of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger arbitrarily to withdraw from ECOWAS, with all the potential implications for the lives of their people, and indeed for the Community as a whole.

“We are also here to review the unfolding situation in Senegal and develop a plan to navigate the resulting complexities.

“We have faced similar crises in the past. As a region, we have not been found wanting.

“There are high expectations out there, from ordinary people as well as our partners in the international community, that this meeting can come up with far-reaching decisions to transform our challenges into opportunities. It goes without saying that we are stronger, together: as a Community we project not just our common values and a more attractive market. “

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) has said that a total of 15 drug kingpins out of 3,412 offenders that were successfully prosecuted and convicted in 2023 bagged 168 years of imprisonment collectively.

Marwa disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday while addressing commanders, officers and men of the agency during an awards and commendations ceremony.

A total of 104 personnel and 13 commands were recognized and rewarded for their outstanding performances in the 2nd half of 2023

Marwa said: “Indeed, our performance as individuals and as a collective could always be better; nonetheless, we must appreciate every effort made to help sustain the momentum of our upward trajectory since January 2021, when we launched the renewed fight against illicit substance trafficking.”

Ho noted that: “According to our statistics, we recorded 13, 664 arrests leading to the seizure of 1, 606, 799.09 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs and 3,412 convictions with a total of 5, 570 offenders charged to court in 2023. It’s indeed a year that at least 15 drug kingpins bagged 168 years of imprisonment collectively. That is a substantial improvement over our performance in 2022. Notably, in 2023, we also ramped up our enforcement action against cannabis farms and carried out at least seven successful major operations, leading to the discovery and destruction of over 206 hectares of cannabis plantations.”

The NDLEA boss also explained that to create awareness about the dangers of substance abuse aimed at prevention and encourage those already in it to seek treatment, the Agency intensified its war against drug abuse (WADA) advocacy initiative nationwide.

“The frequency and intensity of our advocacy throughout the year improved considerably. Zonal and state commands have been very dedicated to propagating WADA advocacy. As a result, a total of 2,725 sensitisation lectures and programmes were held in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others. A breakdown of the WADA lectures held in 2023 shows: 807 in Primary/Secondary Schools; 146 in Tertiary Institutions; 488 for out of school children; 264 in worship centres; 140 in military/paramilitary organisations; 90 in other work places, among others. Just as well, our commands and formations have coped with the increased workload of counselling activities leading to the counselling and rehabilitation of 10, 904 drug users.”

He said those who have been in the agency longer than 2021 can attest to the fact that the past three years have brought different dynamics to the operations and performance of the agency, a development that has attracted commendations from home and abroad.

He added that: “This is further reinforced by the content of a letter two weeks ago from the National Assembly conveying the decision of the national parliament to ‘commend the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against illicit drug consumption and trafficking.’

He said this recognition by both Chambers of the National Assembly should serve as a further morale booster and “a reminder that your efforts are not going unnoticed.”

“I must also say that the NDLEA management has no misgivings about instituting the Commands Awards and Commendations. This twice-a-year event, though a reward system, serves as an inward-looking glass for critical self-analysis and therefore a mechanism that puts the agency on its toes. Each time we gather here to honour exemplary officers and commands, we are making a loud statement that we value meritocracy and that hard work is a virtue we hold in high esteem. We are trying to normalise good performance”, he added.

He however assured that he will not relent in his effort to improve the welfare of the NDLEA workforce, stating that: “All the issues we are working on will soon come to fruition in a matter of time. For instance, we fought hard to have an amended NDLEA Act last year. Today, the bill is at the 10th National Assembly receiving due attention, and we are optimistic that there will be a light at the end of the tunnel. I am also pleased to inform you that our barracks projects have recorded progress. Before the middle of the year, some of our barracks will be ready for commissioning.

These few examples of the efforts going on behind the scenes are evidence that we are working in your best interest.”

Marwa warned that the agency will be firm on disciplinary issues. “We don’t take infractions lightly. Every officer of NDLEA is expected to work within the ambit of our core values and strictly adhere to our standard operating procedure. We expect our officers to be the epitome of service, selflessness and sacrifice.”

He expressed appreciation to individuals and institutions that have contributed to the success of the agency. He said: “As an institution, we thank the European Union and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, for being helpful partners on this journey. We appreciate the support of our other international partners from the US, UK, France, Germany, and India among others.

“We also appreciate sister agencies and security organisations, including the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Customs, Immigration, Police, DSS, NSCDC, NAFDAC, NYSC and FRSC, for the synergy that makes our job easy. Our profound gratitude also goes to the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, the House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs, and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. Importantly, we thank His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and immense support to NDLEA.”

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has announced plans to provide petrol for farmers in Damasak at subsidised rates to enhance food security among residents, most of whom are recovering from the over a decade long insurgency.

The move allows Zulum to key into President Tinubu’s agricultural agenda of achieving food sufficiency through enhanced agricultural activities in places affected by the insurgency.

Zulum disclosed the plan on Tuesday, while addressing newsmen after supervising the distribution of palliative to vulnerable women and widows.

“I am here today to see the living conditions of our people, especially those who have recently returned from the Niger Republic due to the ongoing conflict. My administration will do everything possible to ensure that we provide for their basic necessities. In order to provide sustainable means of livelihood to our people, we are taking deliberate steps to enhance agricultural productivity and alleviate the economic burden on farmers in the Damasak region,” Zulum said.

He added, “For the farmers in this community, the primary source of energy has been generators powered by fossil fuels. To alleviate this challenge, I will be providing assistance to the farmers soon. The government will identify two fueling stations and supply PMS and subsidies to reduce the cost of PMS for the farmers. This will enable them to purchase PMS at a lower price, making it more affordable for them to irrigate their farmlands.”

In addition to providing subsidised petrol, Zulum also promised to distribute solar water-pumping generating sets, seedlings, fertilizer, and other agricultural inputs to the farmers.
 
“Borno State government will also procure solar water pumps, and in addition to this, we will install drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation facilities in this town,” Zulum said.

Damasak, in northern Borno, is an agricultural hub and one of the pilot sites for Borno’s agricultural rejuvenation. It was once a stronghold of the insurgents before it was liberated by Nigerian security forces, which enabled the Zulum-led administration to reconstruct and resettle residents and cultivate vast farmlands.