The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • EFCC probes Malami over alleged multimillion dollar deals

    EFCC probes Malami over alleged multimillion dollar deals

    • Ex-minister confirms commission’s invitation, pledges cooperation

    THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday grilled a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr.  Abubakar Malami(SAN) over allegations of corruption against him.

    The former AGF has been on the radar of the anti-graft commission in respect of some bank accounts, assets and payments of judgement debts,among others.

    Details of his interaction with investigators will be released as from Monday, a top source in EFCC told The Nation last night.

    The source said:” We have many allegations lined up against him. We have not accused him of anything at all.

    “Our investigation is on. He interacted with our operatives on Friday. We were courteous to him. We respected the confidentiality of his appearance. But he has chosen to go public.

    “We will have no choice to explain to Nigerians what he came to do and our findings.”

    The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale  whowas contacted by The Nation yesterday said he had no details of the interaction with Malami because he was out of Abuja.

    Malami personally confirmed his invitation on his X handle yesterday.

    But he did not specify why he was invited or when he would appear before the commission.

    He apparently made the pre-emptive move to beat the EFCC to it and reduce the impact of a summon by the anti-graft agency.

    He said: “This is to confirm that that I have been invited by the EFCC.

    “As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    “I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service -the principles that I both advocate and champion.

    “Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold.”

    Malami served as Attorney General of the Federation between 2015 to 2023.

    Questions have been raised about his role in the payment of $496 million to Global Steel Holdings Ltd (GSHL) as settlement for the termination of the Ajaokuta Steel concession nine years after the Indian company had waved all claims for compensation; the sale of assets worth billions of naira forfeited to the EFCC by politically exposed persons; the $419 million judgment debt awarded to consultants who claimed to have facilitated the Paris Club refunds to the states ; agreement to pay Sunrise Power $200 million compensation in its dispute with the FG over the Mambilla power project;and  legal fees in the transfer of $321 million Abacha loot from Switzerland to Nigeria.

  • FG rolls out ECOWAS national biometric identity cards after 11 years of conception

    FG rolls out ECOWAS national biometric identity cards after 11 years of conception

    The federal government has rolled out the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Cards (ENBIC) to foster the ease of doing business, promote economic prosperity, and enhance security within the sub-region.

     The project, a brainchild of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), came on stream after 11 years of its conception.

     Six countries within the region have already rolled out the project in line with ECOWAS protocol to address security issues and boost the economies of member states of ECOWAS.

    The ceremony marking the ECOWAS Card inauguration at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja, on Friday was attended, among others, by the representative of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandap, the Director General of the Department of State (DSS), Adeola O Ajayi, and the Director General of NIA, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.

     Others are Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Audi, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, and the representative of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, AIG Victor Olaiya.

    Speaking at the event, the SGF, Dr George Akume, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office, Alhaji Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, described the ECOWAS Card as a powerful engine for regional transformation.

     The SGF said Nigeria, despite its challenges, remained an unshakeable pillar for ECOWAS since its establishment in 1975, stating that the ECOWAS Card being inaugurated was a further testimony that Nigeria would continue to play its leadership roles within the sub-region.

     Dr Akume, who praised President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Interior, Dr Tunji-Ojo, and the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, for accelerating the process for the launch of the Cards, said the cards would unlock opportunities for businesses, promote regional trade, and ensure digital identity and authentication for citizens within the ECOWAS member countries.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    He said Nigeria’s commitment towards regional integration and free movement of migrants within the region remained consistent and resolute, adding that the rollout of the ECOWAS Card is not the end of the journey, but a powerful new beginning.

    While he urged member states to ensure accessibility to the Cards, he said the success of the efforts also depended largely on partnership with the private sector to drive financial inclusion, and scale up business activities without jeopardising National security.

    The Minister of Interior, Dr Tunji-Ojo, in his remarks, praised President Tinubu for the landmark achievement, saying that the launch followed 11 years of the conception of the project by ECOWAS member countries.

     He said it was part of the dreams of President Tinubu to quickly transform the country and ensure that Nigeria plays its leadership roles within the sub-region and the African continent.

    Tunji-Ojo said, “The ECOWAS Card is the foundation for identity management and authentication. We have, by the deployment of this project, taken pressure off our Passport systems, and it will provide a foundation for the regional database. With these cards, you don’t need to travel within ECOWAS countries with Passports.

     “Migration data has to be made available so that we can synchronise and manage our migration systems in collaboration with others. Though I cannot discuss the details here, certainly, we cannot manage our migration system in isolation. However, we are glad that the deployment of this card would reinforce our resolve to boost economic activities within the region and enhance security.”

    Tunji-Ojo also said, besides the inauguration of the Advanced Passenger Information System by the Immigration Service, the Service would also launch the Single Travel Emergency Passports by January next year.

    He said the launch would enable Nigerians outside the country to travel back home seamlessly in case they lost their Passports. He assured that with the use of their telephones, Nigerians abroad can find their way home with the new documents.

     The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mrs Kemi Nandap, said the ECOWAS Card represented “a landmark achievement in our collective pursuit of stronger regional integration and security.”

    While she said it would facilitate the free movement of persons, goods, services, and capital within the ECOWAS region, Mrs Nandap noted that it would build a secure, prosperous, and integrated region.

     She praised President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to regional integration and security, asserting that his decisive leadership has been central to advancing this initiative.

     While she commended the Minister of Interior for his leadership and support, Mrs Nandap said, “The New Travel Biometric Card introduced today supports intra-regional mobility within ECOWAS countries. Featuring a secure biometric system, it will strengthen border management by accurately identifying travellers.

  • Ambassadors: Why Tinubu opted for Oke, Dalhatu, Are

    Ambassadors: Why Tinubu opted for Oke, Dalhatu, Are

    • ’Court exonerated Oke over lodging of $43m in Osborne Road apartment’

    President Bola Tinubu’s Wednesday’s choice of the three ambassadors designate to the United States of America, the United Kingdom and France was driven by the urgent need for foreign collaboration to tackle insurgency and banditry in the country,The Nation gathered yesterday.

    Integrity, merit and international connections/ acceptability were other factors considered by the president in settling for a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Amb. Ayo Oke; a former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Kayode Are; and Amb. Amin Mohammed Dalhatu,sources said.

    Their names have been forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

    Some critics have queried the nomination of Oke on account of the circumstances surrounding his exit from the NIA.

    But fresh facts now reveal that he was exonerated of corruption by a Federal High Court in Lagos in 2023 following withdrawal of allegations of lodging over$43m in Osborne Road apartment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    The trio are the first set of nominees for ambassadorial assignments by the Tinubu Presidency.

    A full list is said to be on the way.

    A top source, who spoke in confidence, said the President decided to return to “pragmatic diplomacy which will boost the ongoing economic reforms and counter- insurgency. To Tinubu, it is merit before any consideration.

    “This government has done its homework before nominating the three candidates.Some of them were even abroad when they heard the announcement. One of them was on his way from London yesterday. You can see the merit factor.

    “Those three nominees have unimpeachable pedigree; they are internationally respected and they can knock any door for Nigeria. When they speak on the nation’s security situation in Nigeria or when they seek international support, they are trusted.

    “They have integrity which has endeared them to the international community. They also seek truth to power. Are’s records in DSS were outstanding to the admiration of the international community.

    “Amb. Amin Mohammed Dalhatu is a diplomatic of repute with a great passion for truth, accountability and transparency.  Nigeria comes first to him before any country.

    “Of all security chiefs, Oke was the only person, in his capacity as the NIA boss, that submitted an accurate report that former President Goodluck Jonathan would lose the 2015 general election. He didn’t care if he was fired by the then President.

    His outstanding contributions in the pursuit of Nigeria’s national interest in international environment culminated in his distinguished career at the Commonwealth Secretariat, London as Special Adviser to the Commonwealth Secretary-General and Head of Africa Department of the international organisation.

    “He was also instrumental to the outstanding contributions to the organisational development of the NIA and series of operational successes the NIA recorded under him that earned him noteworthy commendations by two former Presidents…”

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    Oke and the $43m in Osborne road apartment

    Another source confirmed that Amb. Oke was cleared of any corruption in 2023.

    The source added: “As a matter of fact, the funds were for security project kept in a safe house. The EFCC acted on a false alarm. And instead of inter-agency collaboration, it went to town with the discovery.

    “Many international security organisations and companies connected with the project felt embarrassed.

    “A Federal High Court Order revoked the charges following EFCC’s decision to withdraw the case in June 2023 on grounds of national security. This action was duly noted and approved by the late President Muhammadu Buhari in March of the same year.

    “The six-year controversy around the security lodging of $43 million, 27 thousand UK Pounds, and N23 million, belonging to the National Intelligence Agency [NIA], at an Osborne Road apartment in Ikoyi, Lagos, came to an end in 2023 with the legal resolution to terminate the case.

    “The presiding judge of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, Honourable Justice C.J. Aneke, struck out the case on Friday, June 9, 2023, following the decision of the prosecuting team from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission [EFCC] and the lack of objection from the defence team led by Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN) of the Castle of Law Chambers.

    “The EFCC withdrawal of the case followed its agreement with the NIA that on national security grounds and the fact that full forfeiture of the money required no further action.

    “So there is nothing adversarial or negative on this nomination.”

    When contacted, Ajulo, who is now the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, said: “The case against Amb. Oke was struck out because he didn’t embezzle any money. Based on the facts, EFCC withdrew the charges.”

  • Army promotes 28 officers to rank of Major General, 77 to Brigadier General

    Army promotes 28 officers to rank of Major General, 77 to Brigadier General

    The Nigerian Army has promoted 28 officers to the rank of Major General, and 77 officers to the Brigadier General.

    Army spokesperson , Lt.Col Apollonia Anele, announced this in a statement yesterday.

     According to the statement, the approval was given by the Army Council on Thursday.

     Those promoted to the rank of Major General, according to the statement, are:

    Brig Gen O Adegbe,, Brig Gen SM Uba, Brig Gen RE Hedima, Brig Gen RT Utsaha, Brig Gen AM Umar, Brig Gen S Sulaiman, Brig Gen IO Bassey, Brig Gen CA Ekeator, Brig Gen SY Yakasai, Brig Gen WL Nzidee, Brig Gen SA Emmanuel, Brig Gen SS Tilawan, Brig Gen MO Agi, Brig Gen IM Abbas, and Brig Gen ZA Saidu who was promoted posthumously.

     The officers promoted to the rank of Brigadier General are: Colonel Y Ibrahim, Colonel NN Gambo, Colonel A Saidu, Colonel A Ali, Colonel I Waziri, Colonel MM Sani, Colonel AA Alkali, Colonel AO Ndah, Colonel IB Sheriff, Colonel KR Apata, Colonel MK Akpuogwu, Colonel PU Nnaji, Colonel MT Nagudu, Colonel KO Bukoye, Colonel O Adole, Colonel JA Ikagba, Colonel DC Ibeh, Colonel GS Chohwore, Colonel OG Okoye and Colonel YK Audu, among others.    

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

     The statement said the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, had felicitated with the newly promoted senior officers and their families.

     “He charged them to intensify their professional drive and prove beyond doubt that their elevation is well-deserved.

     “He also directed the officers to demonstrate exemplary leadership, inspire their subordinates through personal conduct while cultivating bold, innovative and unconventional solutions capable of delivering swift and decisive responses to the nation’s evolving security threats,” the statement said.

     It said the COAS further charged the officers to uphold, without compromise, their sacred oath of allegiance to defend the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

     He reiterated that their loyalty to the Constitution must remain absolute, unwavering and beyond reproach,’ the statement said.

  • Caverton signs MoU with Chinese university on UAV development, training

    Caverton signs MoU with Chinese university on UAV development, training

    Aviation expert, Captain Akinsete Olushina, of UAV Integration Unit, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has commended Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG) for always moving ahead the curve in the cutting edge technology to enhance its operations.

    Akinsete made this remark in Lagos on Friday November 28, 2025 during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between  Caverton Group and ShenZhen University of Information Technology (SUIT) of China on UAV ‘Drone’ production, which aims to drive and boost technology research and development in Nigeria.

     The MoU focuses on the development status and market demand of the drone industry, drone standard-setting methods, and Nigeria’s policy landscape.

     According to him, Caverton, as a game changer in the aviation sector, is always ahead in technology and its story of growth and excellence is there for people to see.

     “It is my pleasure to be here today and it is very important what we are witnessing today. You see, with the amount of investments and fortitude that have been invested by Caverton to put up this structure at its centre and steps taken by the group from China to assist in this new venture, I can assure you that the future is UAV no doubt.”

    Speaking further he said, ”It is quite clear that UAV is taking over most of the rotary aerial works. Apart from carrying passengers, most aerial works now are being done by UAVs.

     “My initial visit here was at the preliminary stages and today, due to the commitment and visionary leadership of Caverton Group, I can see the transformation in terms of assembly line and training facilities.”

    Read Also: Caverton returns to profitability with N2.09b pre-tax profit

    Akinsete is optimistic that the new venture will be a fantastic union between the two giant entities.

     “We expect that something good will come out of this,” he said, as he expressed his gratitude to the team who travelled all the way from China to share their knowledge.

    He wrapped up his remarks by pledging his support from the NCAA to be of assistance when the need arises. “You have our full support because that is where the future lies.”

    In his welcome address, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG), Rotimi Makanjuola, thanked the August visitor for coming to Caverton Helicopters all the way from China to partner with them.

  • Tinubu directs stronger South–south cooperation

    Tinubu directs stronger South–south cooperation

    President Bola Tinubu has ordered that Nigeria deepens its bilateral engagements with countries that share its development aspirations, naming Tunisia as one of its strategic partners in advancing South–South cooperation.

    This position was conveyed by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, during a meeting with Tunisia’s Minister of Economy and Planning, Mr Samir Abdelhafidh, in Abuja yesterday.

    Bagudu said Nigeria firmly believes that stronger collaboration among countries of the global South will accelerate development and reduce long-standing dependence on advanced economies.

    Receiving senior Tunisian officials, including Mrs Achwek Snoussi and Mr Gara Nader, the minister said, “South–South collaboration, particularly among countries with shared aspirations, would facilitate their development and reduce their dependence on the North.” He explained that the visit signaled a renewed drive by both countries to expand cooperation in national planning, trade, investment mobilisation and development strategy.

    Bagudu told the delegation, “This meeting is a convergence of two ministries united by similar mandates and shared development ambitions. This is more than a diplomatic courtesy; it is an opportunity to shape a new phase of collaboration between our nations.”

    Read Also: Tinubu felicitates Olubaka of Oka-Akoko on Ihare festival, 82nd birthday

    He noted that President Tinubu’s administration places national planning and international economic engagement at the centre of its development agenda, with his ministry serving as the coordinating platform across Nigeria’s federating units.

    The minister observed strong similarities between Nigeria’s planning system and Tunisia’s bottom-up, regionally coordinated approach. He revealed that Nigerian officials are reviewing Tunisia’s planning model to explore knowledge-sharing opportunities, especially in digital transformation, pharmaceutical development, industrial innovation and investment facilitation.

    According to him, “Your emphasis on digital growth in Tunisia’s 2026–2030 plan resonates strongly with Nigeria’s goal of building a one trillion-dollar economy by 2030. There is much we can learn from your progress, and much we can achieve together.”

    Bagudu said he would brief President Tinubu immediately and fast-track arrangements for a reciprocal visit to Tunis.

    In his remarks, Abdelhafidh expressed appreciation for the warm reception and said Tunisia is committed to building a durable, mutually beneficial partnership with Nigeria. He described Nigeria as “a regional powerhouse and a strategic ally in shaping the future of the African and Arab economic space.”

    He stated, “We are here because we believe Nigeria and Tunisia can accomplish far more together than separately. Our ministries share similar responsibilities—planning, investment, and international cooperation—and this creates a natural basis for collaboration.”

    The Tunisian minister outlined the country’s bottom-up development planning system for 2026–2030, which draws priorities from local councils, regional assemblies, district authorities and ministries.

    He said the model ensures national planning reflects actual needs, adding, “Our approach is anchored on inclusiveness. Local and regional bodies are articulating their priorities, and we are integrating them with national and sectoral strategies. It is a model we believe aligns closely with Nigeria’s federated planning system.”

    Abdelhafidh also listed areas where cooperation could commence immediately, including digital economy and e-governance, industrial modernisation, pharmaceutical and health technology development, investment facilitation and technical capacity building.

    He said Tunisia is ready to exchange expertise while learning from Nigeria’s experience in federal coordination, macroeconomic reforms and large-scale development management.

    “This partnership should not be theoretical; it should produce concrete programs that benefit the citizens of both countries,” he said.

    The Tunisian Minister added that both nations’ participation in the Arab–African Trade Programme presents an opportunity to deepen trade, strengthen logistics networks and build cross-regional economic value chains. “The Arab–African Trade Program has brought us closer to our African partners,” Abdelhafidh said. “Nigeria is central to Africa’s economic future, and strengthening our relationship is both strategic and necessary.”

  • Yuletide rush: FERMA launches massive road fix as OCYD 3.0 begins in Akwa Ibom

    Yuletide rush: FERMA launches massive road fix as OCYD 3.0 begins in Akwa Ibom

    Ahead of the Yuletide season, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) says it is intensifying efforts to ensure smoother travel experiences for Nigerians by launching Operation Connect to Your Destination (OCYD) 3.0 along the 36km Ekparakwa–Azumini–Iwukem Road in Akwa Ibom State.

    Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi PhD, said the initiative was crafted to alleviate travel challenges typically experienced at the end of the month and during the festive season.

    He revealed that as part of the nationwide intervention, 10,683 m² of potholes will be patched, 7,392 m² of failed sections repaired, and 881 m² of asphaltic overlay completed, culminating in the restoration of 85.9 kilometres of motorable roadway nationwide. The programme is also expected to generate 1,722 jobs, underscoring its socioeconomic impact.

    This renewed push, according to the FERMA helmsman, aligns with the federal mandate to maintain all federal roads and keep them serviceable—an urgent necessity as Nigeria’s 36,000-kilometre federal road network remains the country’s most heavily used transport system.

    He further noted that the intervention is fully in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure revival, economic stimulation, and improved mobility for citizens. By making federal highways safer and more motorable, FERMA is directly contributing to the administration’s vision of a more connected, efficient, and economically vibrant Nigeria.

    “Operation Connect to Your Destination is designed to guarantee free and safe movement of commuters, especially during the Yuletide when travel volume increases. It is important to ensure that travellers enjoy a smooth experience during this period,” Agbasi said.

    He affirmed the agency’s dedication to addressing trouble spots, insisting that FERMA is consistently fulfilling its mandate.

    Read Also: FERMA flags off Operation Safeguard the Road programme

    “Our responsibility is to ensure that failures, potholes, and distressed sections on the network are remedied promptly. This programme helps us deliver that mandate in a more targeted and effective manner,” he added.

    Agbasi noted that OCYD 3.0 will run across 39 major corridors nationwide, with maintenance activities in progress in all 36 states. The ongoing works include pothole patching, repairs of failed sections, and asphaltic overlays aimed at strengthening overall road quality.

    Also speaking, Engr. Sani Abdulkadir, Head of FERMA’s Direct Labour Unit, commended the Managing Director’s leadership, confirming that the teams are fully mobilized, promising to deliver on the targets.

    “The MD has given clear direction for this intervention. Manpower, machines, and materials are already on ground. We are set to deliver quality work on this corridor,” Abdulkadir said.

    He assured that the Direct Labour teams are committed to timely and durable execution, especially ahead of the increased festive traffic.

    The launch of OCYD 3.0 in Akwa Ibom State stands as yet another demonstration of FERMA’s expanding footprint in safeguarding Nigeria’s highways. By tackling critical road failures, enhancing connectivity, improving journey time experience and improving safety standards, the agency continues to play a defining role in keeping the nation’s federal roads motorable.

  • Nigeria returns to IMO Council after14 years as Oyetola leads campaign

    Nigeria returns to IMO Council after14 years as Oyetola leads campaign

    Nigeria has been elected into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.

    The election, which was held yesterday during the IMO General Assembly in London, marks Nigeria’s return to the Council after a 14-year absence.

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who led Nigeria’s campaign, said the victory crowned over 12 months of intensive diplomacy shuttles, targeted engagements and sustained advocacy across various countries and maritime blocs.

    Speaking moments after the results were declared, Oyetola described Nigeria’s election as an endorsement of the renewed confidence the world has in Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

    The minister in a statement by his Media Aide, Dr Bolaji Akinola stated: “This victory is not just for Nigeria; it is a vote of confidence in our maritime reforms, our security efforts in the Gulf of Guinea, and the bold vision of His Excellency President Tinubu to unlock the full potential of the blue economy.”

    He also stated that the election represents a major boost to Nigeria’s profile in global maritime governance.

    “Our return to the IMO Council after fourteen years signals that Nigeria is back; stronger, more strategic and more determined to contribute meaningfully to shaping the future of global shipping, maritime safety and sustainable ocean governance. We worked tirelessly, travelling across continents, building bridges and reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to take up this responsibility.”

    The minister thanked President Tinubu for providing the support that made the campaign successful despite the highly competitive nature of the election.

    “Mr President gave us every encouragement, every backing and every resource we needed to prosecute this campaign. His leadership opened doors and inspired immense goodwill from across the world,” he noted.

    He also thanked the international maritime community for believing in Nigeria, affirming that the results demonstrate broad trust in the reforms being undertaken by the Tinubu administration.

    Read Also: Oyetola makes final diplomatic push for Nigeria’s IMO Council seat in London

    “The world has stood with us, and we do not take this for granted. Nigeria will serve with integrity, commitment and a strong sense of responsibility,” he pledged.

    The Minister further commended the Technical Committee of Experts chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, acknowledging their coordination, planning and commitment to Nigeria’s success.

    Nigeria joins 19 other nations in Category C – countries recognised for their special interests in maritime transport and navigation and selected to ensure balanced geographical representation within the IMO Council.

    The elected states in Category C are: Bahamas, Belgium, Cyprus, Chile, Cyprus, Egypt, Finland, Indonesia, Jamaica, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and South Africa.

    Countries elected into Category B, representing nations with the largest interests in international seaborne trade, are Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the United Arab Emirates.

    Category A, comprising the world’s leading providers of international shipping services, saw the election of China, Greece, Italy, Japan, Liberia, Norway, Panama, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

    The Minister said: “We have earned the world’s confidence. Now we must deepen our reforms, strengthen our institutions and ensure that Nigeria takes its rightful place as a leading maritime nation”.

  • Ex-police officers protest at NASS over delay on bill seeking exit from pension scheme

    Ex-police officers protest at NASS over delay on bill seeking exit from pension scheme

    Retired police officers on Thursday staged a protest at the National Assembly (NASS) in Abuja over the delay in the passage of a bill seeking their exit from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

    The protesting ex-police officers carried various placards with different messages calling the attention of NASS authorities to their plight.

    While restating their demand for speedy passage of the bill to remove them from the CPS, the retired police officers described their inclusion in the CPS as unjust and exploitative.

    At the Assembly, they demanded to meet the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio to hear from him why the Bill to exit the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from the CPS is being delayed by the Senate, when all conditions for passage of the bill had been met.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    Spokesperson of the aggrieved ex-police officers, Chukwuma Onyeike, a retired Superintendent of Police (SP) said:  ‘’Several Public hearings have been carried out by the 9th and 10th National Assembly and the outcome is in favour of the exit of the NPF, same way the Military, the Department of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Intelligence Agency( NIA) were exited from the CPS.

    ‘’ Policemen are suffering even more, the same fate of paying the supreme price, sacrificing their lives, rights and liberty, to protect Nigeria and defend it, against protracted invasion of external and internal terrorists and bandits.

    The surviving Police retirees must not be further subjugated to death through the genocidal CPS. No country in the World subjects its police retirees to the profit oriented CPS after their hazardous nature of service, even in Chile where Nigeria copied the CPS,’’ he said.

  • Matawalle decries politicisation of security challenge, cautions media

    Matawalle decries politicisation of security challenge, cautions media

    The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has dissociated himself from a report circulating on social media, claiming he said “Zamfara security initiative would n’t work without him.”

    Matawall described the reports as maliciously crafted to tarnish his good reputation and efforts, and undermine the Federal Government’s efforts at tackling the security challenges facing the nation.

    He said at no time did he grant any such interview, noting, however, that he had taken Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to task over his poor strategy and non-cooperation with the Federal Government on a mechanism for tackling the security challenges.

    Matawalle, who had earlier served as Zamfara governor for four years before his present ministerial appointment, noted that Governor Lawal’s attitude of not carrying him and other stakeholders along in his arrangements for tackling the state’s security situation that has become a national issue is condemnable.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    He said meeting with the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, alone and neglecting him who is a son of the soil and a minister from the state also saddled with defence matters, is regrettable.

    “Everything should not be politicised. This is the time all hands should be on deck to tackle the security problems,” Matawalle said.

    He also condemned the governor for authorizing that security operatives on the ground in Zamfara move to tackle the security threat without coordinating with Abuja, a situation he described as a major drawback in the process.

    He described the story as a sponsored mischief by a certain group of people who were out to use all other avenues to create political tension and instability in Zamfara State.

    “Premium Times as a respected medium ought to have clarified from Matawalle or his media aides his statement on the matter in order to give accurate information to the public.

    “The media should not be used as tools of political mischief and mudslinging because of differences in political leanings.

    “As a stakeholder in the management of security in the nation, there is no reason for him to want to sabotage the efforts of any state governor, talk less of his own state where the security challenges have become unmanageable due to poor governance,” Matawalle added

    According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to securing communities and ensuring residents return safely to abandoned farmlands, schools and homes.

    He said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is fully committed to addressing the country’s problems and no political collusion will deter the government from doing so.

    He also said because President Bola Tinubu is focused on good leadership, purposeful governance, peace, security and socio-economic growth of the nation, his reelection is assured.