The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • First Lady, Renewed Hope Initiative empowers 250 elders in Ebonyi

    First Lady, Renewed Hope Initiative empowers 250 elders in Ebonyi

    The First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has empowered 250 elderly citizens in Ebonyi State through her ‘Renewed Hope Initiative’s Elderly Support Scheme.’

    The initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Office of Ebonyi State Governor’s Wife, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru. 

    Speaking during the disbursement of support in Ebonyi State, Senator Tinubu, represented by Mrs. Nwifuru, said the theme for this year’s programme, the second edition, is “Total Wellness: Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous Lifestyle.” 

    The First Lady explained that the programme is an annual initiative designed to enhance the welfare and well-being of elderly citizens across the country.

    She said: “250 elderly citizens, aged 65 and above in all the 36 states of the federation, the federal capital territory and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association will be benefiting from the scheme.

    Read Also: Renewed Hope Ambassadors hail Tinubu over Oluyede’s appointment as COAS

    “The governing board of Renewed Hope Initiative has decided to increase the grant from N100,000 to N200,000 this year to provide further support to our elderly citizens during this festive season”.

    Senator Tinubu explained that a total of N1.9 billion will be disbursed across the nation.

    “The RHI Coordinators in the 36 states of the federation, FCT and DRPOWA have received N50 million each, our offerings which N200,000 will be distributed today to each beneficiary.

    The First Lady noted that other programmes like free medical check-ups and other sundry items will also be provided.

    While commending the State First Ladies and RHI Coordinators and partners for their support, Senator Tinubu urged the senior citizens to prioritise their health even as they enjoy and celebrate during this festive season.

    “Eat well, stay hydrated, do little exercises- like walking and getting adequate rest. Spend quality time with loved ones, and do what you enjoy and makes you happy”, she added. 

  • Gov Eno unveils ‘Every Home a Garden’ initiative, offers N500,000 reward to 50 participants

    Gov Eno unveils ‘Every Home a Garden’ initiative, offers N500,000 reward to 50 participants

    In a bid to advance food security and self-sufficiency under ‘The Arise Agenda’, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state has introduced the “Every Home a Garden” initiative, encouraging residents to develop and maintain home gardens. 

    Speaking at this year’s Christmas Carols Festival over the weekend, Governor Eno announced a N500,000 reward for at least 50 participants who successfully create viable home gardens anywhere in the state. 

    The initiative is modeled after the “Every Home a Garden” project championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

    Interested participants are required to submit a two-minute video showcasing their home gardens with visible landmarks. Videos are to be uploaded on the platform ‘arisehomefarms.akwaibomstate.gov.ng.’ 

    Governor Eno emphasised that Akwa Ibom’s abundant fertile land, favorable climate, and hardworking population make it unjustifiable for the state to rely on other regions for essential produce such as fruits, tomatoes, pepper, waterleaf, pumpkin, and other spices. 

    This bold step, the Governor explained, aims to promote local food production and reduce dependence on external sources, ultimately enhancing the state’s agricultural capacity and sustainability.

    Recall that in his short-term approach to food sufficiency in The Arise Agenda, Pastor Umo Eno promised to increase the production of some identified agricultural products that include fruits, vegetables such as Tomatoes, Cucumber, Oranges, Mango, Pineapple, Spinach, Pepper, Okro and varieties of local spices.

    These were promised along with the provision of adequate Food Crops such as cassava, Rice, Maize, yam, plantain, and banana and Cash Crops such as Cocoa, oil palm, Dates/ Raffia Palm, kola nut, and coconut. He also listed Fisheries and Livestock. Most of which can be cultivated around homes.

    The idea, according to him, is to encourage those who have land around their homes to start cultivating it and grow from mere consumption level to income generating level.

    Over the years small grants/rewards to farmers have emerged as a vital resource for enhancing agriculture and food security initiatives, particularly in developing regions like Akwa Ibom State.

    These grants, often provided by governments, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies, are often designed to empower local farmers and communities by offering financial support for innovative small-scale farming. The significance of small grants lies not only in their monetary value but also in their ability to foster creativity, resilience, and self-sufficiency among small farmers.

    By targeting specific needs within communities, these grants/rewards can catalyze transformative changes that lead to improved food production, better nutrition, and enhanced livelihoods. A cursory look into the impact of these grants reveals that they are not merely financial instruments; they are enablers of change that can uplift entire communities and contribute to global food security.

    The impact of small grants on local farming communities is profound and multifaceted. Firstly, these grants often empower farmers by providing them with the resources needed to experiment with new agricultural products. For instance, a small grant might fund the purchase of improved seedlings or organic fertilizers, allowing farmers to enhance their crop yields sustainably.

    Read Also: Gov Eno meets new LG chairmen, emphasises shared responsibilities, importance of building unity

    This not only improves food availability but also boosts the income of local farmers, enabling them to invest further in their operations and families. Moreover, small grants like the N500,000.00 to Home Farmers in Akwa Ibom State can foster community engagement and collaboration. This can lead to knowledge sharing, where experienced farmers mentor newcomers, and innovative ideas are exchanged. As a result, the entire community benefits from increased agricultural productivity and resilience against external shocks such as pest attacks.

    These rewards or grants help ensure that families have access to nutritious food year-round. For instance, a small grant might fund a local cooperative that aggregates produce from multiple farmers and sells it at fair prices in urban markets.

    As farmers become more self-sufficient and resilient through the programs, they contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty that often accompanies food insecurity.

    Policy analysts applaud this initiative and see it as timely and well-designed to encourage the young and elderly to go back to farming since with the “Every Home A Garden Initiative” one does not need to own acres of land to be involved in farming activities.

  • SEDC: ‘President Tinubu deserves kudos for reversing years of Igbo relegation’

    SEDC: ‘President Tinubu deserves kudos for reversing years of Igbo relegation’

    The Chairman, Security, Climate Change, and Special Interventions Committee on the Governing Board of North East Development Commission (NEDC), Sam Onuigbo has commended President Bola Tinubu for constituting the board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

    In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, Onuigbo said the President has equipped the commission to intervene in a special way to address the wounds of the past through psychological healing.

    He noted that by expeditiously assenting to the bill for the creation of SEDC after its checkered passage by the 10th National Assembly, the President did what other Nigerian leaders before him could not do.

    Onuigbo, who represents South East geopolitical zone in the Governing Board of NEDC said that the SEDC has unique and specialised roles to play and promises to fulfill for the region after the intense devastations of the civil war.

    He declared that the South East interventionist commission was coming more than 54 years after a proclamation to address the promises of the triple Rs- Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Reintegration–which were virtually abandoned by successive military and civilian administrations.

    Onuigbo, who served two terms as the representative of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, remarked that as a man of history, President Tinubu has touched a sensitive nerve to heal deep-seated wounds of the past.

    He stated: “In all honesty, President Tinubu deserves special thanks from the people of South East, because for more than half a century, the scars of the civil war remained with us in terms of infrastructure despoliation, social disconnection and economic tribulation.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu presides over FEC meeting at the Villa

    “By signing the South East Development Commission establishment bill into law and following it up with the constitution of its members, the President has equipped the commission to intervene in a special way to address the wounds of the past through psychological healing.

    “The SEDC has come to remove the nagging feelings of distrust and socio-economic marginalization among the people of South East. For rising to this historical challenge, special thanks should go to President Tinubu.”

    He therefore charged the pioneer members of SEDC to work extra hard with uncommon unity of purpose to lay a solid foundation for the commission by achieving great milestones, even as he urged the members to do all in their powers to reenact the past global rating of South East as one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

    He commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, saying he (Kalu) “has succeeded in writing his name in gold by that momentous legislation.”

  • Defamation debate: Between Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi

    Defamation debate: Between Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi

    By Yushau A. Shuaib

    In 2019, my son, Gidado Shuaib—News Digest publisher and host of the annual Campus Journalism Awards (CJA)—found himself enmeshed in a defamation case that stemmed from a report he and award-winning journalist Alfred Olufemi, published regarding alleged hemp smoking by workers in a factory owned by a powerful individual.

    This ignited a series of events that culminated in police operatives from Kwara State raiding my home in Abuja under the cover of night, detaining him before escorting him for legal proceedings in Ilorin that was concluded this year 2024.

    Similarly, but in a contrasting scenario, I also became embroiled in a legal battle of my own, filing a ₦500 million defamation lawsuit against freelance journalist Terrence Kuanum whose scathing publication inaccurately depicted me as a supporter of Boko Haram and a proxy for ISWAP fighters in Nigeria.

    His derogatory remarks were in response to my published memo urging the then President Muhammdu Buhari to replace service chiefs who had long overstayed their welcome and impeded career progression of other competent military officers.

    The fallout from Kuanum’s article was severe, tarnishing my professional reputation and exposing me to ridicule and even security threats. As a result, after petitioning all security and intelligence services, I sought a perpetual injunction against further defamatory statements, a public apology and ₦500 million in damages.

    In both circumstances, Barrister Yunus Abdulsalam, who was recently inducted as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), represented us. These personal encounters have imparted invaluable insights into the complex legal quagmire that Chief Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi currently navigate in their own defamation dispute.

    Remaining silent in the face of defamation under the guise of gentility is a fool’s errand. Defamation, legally defined as the communication of a false statement that harms an individual’s reputation, can lead to significant losses in honor, business prospects, or social standing.

    Read Also: Remita lists potential of Nigeria’s National Payment System Vision

    The pivotal elements of defamation include the existence of a false statement, its publication to at least one third party, and demonstrable reputational, financial, or emotional harm, all exacerbated by the defendant’s fault and malicious intent.

    Amid the recent contentious atmosphere surrounding Farotimi’s arrest, misinformation ran rampant on social media and in the press. Unfounded claims insinuated that Tony Elumelu, Chairman of UBA, orchestrated Farotimi’s arrest, while others accused the Bola Tinubu government of weaponizing law enforcement to stifle dissent.

    Disturbingly, many legal professionals, human rights advocates, and journalists neglected to provide objective clarity during this tumultuous time, instead contributing to a climate rife with confusion and misinformation.

    Soon enough, it was disclosed that Chief Afe Babalola was the plaintiff suing Farotimi for defamation. Even before this fact became public knowledge, Babalola—who was born on October 30, 1929—had weathered a storm of critique and scorn from individuals oblivious to or willfully ignorant of the legal ramifications surrounding the matter.

    His credentials are noteworthy; a degree in Economics from the University of London before qualifying as a lawyer in 1963 and starting his law firm in 1965. From establishing Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) to earning accolades as the Best Pro-Chancellor of Nigerian Universities during his tenure at the University of Lagos, Babalola embodies a legacy of legal expertise, philanthropy, and educational reform.

    On the other hand, Dele Farotimi, born on April 27, 1968, studied at Lagos State University (LASU), where he served as President of the Student Union during the 1994/1995 academic year, later being called to the Nigerian bar in 1999. A lawyer, seasoned public speaker, and human rights activist, Farotimi is a member of the Citizens’ Rally Against Oppression (RAMINBA).

    He is recognized for his unwavering commitment to social justice and systemic reform, criticizing the current political structure and the 1999 Constitution, which he argues perpetuates systemic corruption. His literary works, including “Do Not Die in Their War” and “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” challenge citizens to confront and address corrupt practices.

    The allegations at the center of the Babalola-Farotimi controversy are serious. Reports indicate that Farotimi accused Babalola of corrupt activities related to allegedly manipulating Supreme Court decisions in a 2013 land dispute favoring Babalola’s client. This incited Babalola to sue for criminal defamation, culminating in a 16-count charge against Farotimi and his subsequent arrest.

    It is both amusing and lamentable how politicians, activists, and social media influencers, including certain editors, have disrespected Chief Afe Babalola with scathing criticisms and condemnations. The media onslaught, often fueled by misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric, starkly contradicts the principles of justice.

    As Afe Babalola approaches his 100th birthday, surrounded by great-grandchildren, he does not deserve the relentless vitriol and humiliation unleashed by social media trolls—individuals who sadly lack an appreciation for history, decorum, and the cultural values that dictate respect for elders.

    What is even more worrying is that some legal practitioners have joined the chorus of criticism against one of Nigeria’s most esteemed lawyers. It is perplexing that legal professionals often overlook fundamental legal principles and the consequences of their actions in the public sphere. Consider the recent statements from senior lawyers and executive members of the newly inaugurated Mazi Afam Osigwe-led Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

    Without a proper grasp of the Constitution, they hastily justified dubious manoeuvres to displace the Code of Conduct Tribunal Chairman, Danladi Umar, creating an atmosphere of divisiveness rather than justice. Equally perplexing, the NBA’s swift alignment with one party in the Babalola-Farotimi matter also lacked due diligence.

    The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for legal practitioners, apart from politicians and social media influencers, to undergo training in public relations to navigate the complexities of public discourse better.

    Rather than resorting to unrestrained rhetoric or silence, public commentators—especially legal professionals—could greatly benefit from such training to enhance transparency and public trust. This initiative would improve reputations during crises and promote responsible visibility and thought leadership rather than cheap popularity contests.

    In the context of the Babalola-Farotimi case, the courts must stand as the ultimate authority, not social media. Nigeria is not a banana republic where digital mobs can dictate legal outcomes. By committing ourselves to the legal process, we can attain genuine justice and restore public confidence in our institutions.

    Yushau Shuaib is the author of ‘Award Winning Crisis Communication Strategies’

    Email: yashuaib@yashuaib.com

  • EU-RoLAC, Edo mark 16 days of activism with renewed commitment to end GBV

    EU-RoLAC, Edo mark 16 days of activism with renewed commitment to end GBV

    Edo state has joined the global community in commemorating the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a series of impactful activities aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the eradication of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

    The campaign, themed “UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” was spearheaded by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in collaboration with the State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues (MSDGI).

    The highlight of the event was the attendance of the Sister to the new Edo State Governor, Monday Okpenholor, Ms Okpenholor, who reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to the fight against SGBV.

    In her address, she emphasised the importance of collective action in creating a society free of violence against women and girls.

    “This administration stands firmly against all forms of gender-based violence. Together, we will strengthen our efforts to ensure that survivors are supported, perpetrators are held accountable, and future generations can live in safety and dignity,” Ms Okpenholor said.

    The RoLAC team spotlighted the detrimental impact of retrogressive cultural practices that have hindered SGBV campaigns in Nigeria for years.

    The State Coordinator, RoLAC, Ms Uche Nwokedi, urged survivors to break the silence and come forward.

    “We must challenge harmful traditions that perpetuate violence and discourage survivors from speaking out. Ending SGBV requires not only strong laws but also a societal shift that empowers survivors to share their stories without fear of stigma,” she stated.

    A range of activities marked the campaign in Edo State, including social media campaigns, road walks, community sensitizations, and a high-level conference. These initiatives were designed to galvanize public attention, engage stakeholders, and spark meaningful discussions around SGBV prevention and response.

    The campaign also highlighted gaps in the implementation of existing laws and policies. Stakeholders called for stronger enforcement mechanisms and urged policymakers to prioritize SGBV prevention within government agendas.

    Read Also: My son qualified to serve as Edo commissioner – Oshiomhole

    “Laws alone are not enough; we need consistent implementation and community-driven solutions to ensure their impact,” a participant remarked during a press briefing.

    The State Government commitment and RoLAC’s call for survivor empowerment set a hopeful tone for the campaign, underscoring the urgency of united action against SGBV.

    As the 16 Days of Activism draw to a close, Edo State remains steadfast in its pledge to protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, ensuring a safer future for all.

  • Gov Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations

    Gov Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has handed six gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to enhance the security of oil installations and tackle sea piracy along the waterways.

    Fubara said that securing steady growth of the national economy, dependent largely on crude oil production and sales, demanded sustained support to the security agencies to enable them win the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism

    Fubara spoke shortly before handing over six security surveillance 400 horse-powered gunboats and three separate units of bungalows for Senior Officers’ Quarters and rating Bofor’s accommodation donated by his administration to the Nigerian Navy on Friday.

    The event, which took place at the NNS Pathfinder, Rumuolumeni in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, had the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla present to receive the donation of the government.

  • Tinubu administration most Igbo-friendly, says Obielom

    Tinubu administration most Igbo-friendly, says Obielom

    The leader and convener of Igbos in Diaspora Congress, Emeka Obielom has said that President Bola Tinubu is one of the most Igbo-friendly President’s Nigeria has ever had.

    Obielom, a strong supporter of the Tinubu administration, after the Diaspora end of the year meeting in Russia, said that the Igbos are faring well under the current dispensation.

    According to him, ‘the Tinubu administration has given us a sense of belonging and hope and we are ready to reciprocate by supporting him at anytime that we are needed. 

    “I have over the years been Mobilising our people in the Diaspora and at home to support him because even when he was the governor of Lagos state Ndigbos weren’t discriminated against, 

    “Our people were part of his government in Lagos. He provided a level playing field for our traders in several locations in Lagos  it is said that one good turn deserves another. 

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu appoints new Comptroller General for Correctional Service

    “Today as Nigeria’s president an Igbo man is the Minister of works, the wife of ikemba of Nnewi Mrs Bianca Ojukwu is a minister and we have  other Ministers too,” he said.

    Obielom added: “An  Igbo man is in the National Security Council and so many appointments have been offered to our Ndigbos”.

    Obielom, who is the CEO Geoneft LLC an oil and Gas Company in Russia has recently promised to build a Diaspora city in Anambra in his home state.

    “As a philanthropist I will continue to encourage our people especially in the area of education, our scholarship programme is adding great value to the students in high institutions,

    Obielom also thanked Igbo governors and ministers for joining  hands with President Tinubu’s administration to build a united Nigeria.

    He  pleaded with the people causing  insecurity in the Southeast to desist because Ndigbos are peace loving people who are all over the world.”

  • Open letter to all living Nigerians

    Open letter to all living Nigerians

    By Gbenga Omole 

    Dear fellow Nigerians,

    I write to you with a heart full of hope and a vision for a brighter future for our beloved nation. Nigeria, a land rich in potential, stands at a pivotal juncture where the actions of each citizen can steer us toward lasting progress. We must shift our focus from what our country can do for us to what we can contribute to its growth and development.

    For those in positions of authority—President Bola Tinubu, ministers, governors, commissioners, and local government chairmen—the call to ethical leadership and public service has never been more urgent. Our history has been marred by corruption and inefficiency, yet figures like the late Dora Akunyili have shown that prioritising service over self-interest can restore faith in our institutions. The true measure of leadership lies not in personal accolades but in the establishment of robust systems that serve future generations.

    Economic empowerment is another cornerstone of a meaningful legacy. With a significant portion of our population living below the poverty line, it is crucial to create opportunities that uplift the underprivileged. Investments in education, support for small and medium enterprises, and the establishment of social safety nets can transform lives. Industrialists like Aliko Dangote have demonstrated the impact of creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Beyond business, philanthropic efforts targeting healthcare, education, and infrastructure are vital.

    Education remains a powerful tool for societal transformation. Improving access to quality education, especially for marginalized groups, is essential. Individuals can contribute by establishing scholarships, libraries, or training centers. The late Tai Solarin’s dedication to accessible education continues to inspire. Mentoring the next generation fosters a culture of excellence and resilience, recognising that intellectual capital is our most valuable resource.

    Grassroots efforts play a transformative role in our society. Community leaders addressing local challenges with local solutions lay the groundwork for progress. Environmental advocates combating deforestation and pollution and leaders promoting health campaigns or women’s rights are securing better futures for their communities. Supporting these initiatives through funding, volunteering, or advocacy ensures that progress is inclusive and sustainable.

    Our cultural heritage is a significant asset. Preserving and promoting this heritage is crucial, especially as cultural homogenisation threatens indigenous identities. Artists, writers, musicians, and filmmakers can leave enduring legacies by creating works that celebrate Nigerian realities. Government policies that protect cultural sites and support creative industries, alongside private initiatives funding arts programs and mentoring emerging talent, can keep our cultural tapestry vibrant.

    Nigeria’s diversity is both a strength and a challenge. Fostering unity through dialogue and collaboration among different communities is essential for national stability. Policies addressing regional inequalities and promoting inclusivity can mitigate feelings of marginalisation. Citizens can champion interfaith and intercultural initiatives that bridge divides, building a nation that thrives on its diversity.

    Ultimately, the legacies we leave are shaped by individual actions. Whether in government or as private citizens, each of us has the potential to make a difference. Identifying our unique strengths and leveraging them for the greater good is key. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the collective legacy of our nation.

    As the saying goes, “You cannot change the world, but you can change someone’s world.” The legacies we leave are defined by the lives we touch and the positive changes we inspire.

    We are Kings and Queens. Let us stop dancing naked. We can make our great nation work again. God bless Nigeria should be our slogan.  

    Yours sincerely,

    Snr Apostle Gbenga Omole Pawtucket, Rhode Island, USA

  • Security agencies to hold national band festival

    Security agencies to hold national band festival

    As part of efforts to strengthen bonds and promote  inter-agency  collaboration, the Armed Forces, Police, and Paramilitary International Band Festival (AFOPPIBAF)  is staging  a National Band Festival  for the band corps of the Military, Police, and Paramilitary agencies.

    The Director- General of AFOPPIBAF, Amb. Justin Duru , who stated this during a press conference to unveil plans for the festival on Thursday in Abuja, said the prestigious event is to be held  in 2025 in the FCT on  a date yet to be announced.

    According to him, the festival with the theme, “Togetherness: Unity in Diversity, Our Strength”, is  to  promote  synergy, harmony, and cordial working relationships among the band corps of the agencies as they work together for national unity.

    He said the AFOPPIBAF national festival is officially coordinated and produced by African Caribbean Network Foundation (ACNF) in partnership with AfroNem Linx and Klaymann and Gremann, the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and the Paramilitary bands.

    “Military, Police, Paramilitary and Marching Bands play vital roles in providing regimental and ceremonial music for social, national and international events, and essentially in the promotion of national unity and peace. Being the most colourful costumed unit  of their organisations, they signify beauty and ceremonial grandeur.

    “Significantly,  Armed Forces, Police, and Paramilitary International Band Festival (AFOPPIBAF)   was initiated and packaged  by African Caribbean Network Foundation (ACNF) with commendations, to showcase creative display of military, police and paramilitary tattoos(regimental,dance,pipe and steel-pan bands) of the world in a competitive level, and to promote multilateral experience sharing, exchanges, and relations amongst the bands, while highlighting the new global trends in regimental tattoo and ceremonial bands performances.

    “AFOPPIBAF National Festival is a historic festival aimed at celebrating the best of regimental tattoos and music by the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary bands in a competitive, creative and performing arts showcase.

    “Thus, awakening the latent talents of the activities and services of these integral departments in the promotion of the values and virtues of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary agencies.

    “It is packaged to improve on and promote experience sharing, synergy, creativity, service deliveries and new trends in military, Police and paramilitary regimental tattoos and music performance, aimed at enhancing bonds.

    “It will also showcase their creative talents while promoting careers in the Nigerian  Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary band corps for talented and desirous Nigeria youths in music, creative and performing arts.

     “This is the first ever festival bringing all the Nigerian security agencies together to celebrate  and promote their bands corps in a ceremonial regimental tattoo culture under one platform, he said

    According to the DG: “The  theme of AFOPPIBAF national festival is anchored on the song of legendary Nigerian musician , Late Sonny Okosun(Ozzidi) “Togetherness” , and is paraphrased,  ‘Togetherness: Unity in Diversity,Our Strength.”

    Duru added that the historic event  aimed at uniting Nigeria’s military,Police  and paramilitary bands while promoting cultural diversity, creativity  and regimental music, would  feature regimental music colloquium, serenade, street Parade, marc-past, creative and cultural displays, drum-battles, tributes and prizes, among other highlights.

    He said the festival’s special guests would include past and present military,police and paramilitary leaders, including Service Chiefs, as well as heads of Customs, Fire Service, Civil Defence, FRSC,,VIO  and the Correctional Service, among others.

    Read Also: Osun Town to celebrate Oriki Yoruba Festival

    He added that “there will be ceremonial decorations of AFOPPIBAF National Festival Patrons and Matrons, complemented with conferment of the prestigious ‘AFOPPIBAF Symbol of Unity Award’ on distinguished  patrons who stand as Nigeria’s symbol of unity with their support of  the festival in  celebration and promotion  of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary bands.

    “It will establish the name ‘President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’ in the history of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for posterity as a ‘National Pride’ and  the first Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces under whose leadership the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary bands successfully participated  under one platform captioned, ‘AFOPPIBAF National Festival.”

  • Police, CSOs sensitise Southeast youths on cybercrime consequences

    Police, CSOs sensitise Southeast youths on cybercrime consequences

    Personnel of the Nigerian police, along with members of various civil society organisations, embarked on a freedom walk in Enugu on Tuesday to sensitize the youth and residents of the Southeast region about the ills of cybercrime.

    The event, organized by the South Saharan Social Development Organization and Spaces for Change (S4C), in collaboration with the Nigerian Police National Cyber Crime Centre, aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of cybercrime in society.

    The walk saw policemen, CSOs, and youths marching through the streets of Enugu and visiting several schools to educate the public.

    Speaking during the event, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Nigerian Police National Cybercrime Centre, Force Headquarters, Henry Ifeanyi Uche, lamented that many young people are getting involved in cybercrime, defrauding and scamming numerous individuals.

    “Some of them don’t even know that there are consequences for their actions. I believe that anybody who goes into cybercrime should be able to understand that there are consequences for their actions.

    “So, we’re here basically to tell our youngsters that it’s not good to go into cybercrime,” he said.

    He added that part of the sensitisation was on how people, especially the youth, can stay safe online.

    “This is because it’s a very big issue. You can’t get what you don’t have. It’s only when you understand your right as a citizen and what to do so that you won’t become a victim of online scammers.

    “So many of our citizens don’t even know what to do when confronted with cyber-attacks. So, when you see unsolicited messages, you are not supposed to click on them. You must ensure that you have a very strong password. Some of us who normally use our date of birth, first names, family names etc as passwords should desist because they’re very weak passwords. You should be able to generate complex passwords that will help you stay safe online.

    “Our walk here is simply to tell our people how to wash their cyber hands and practice cyber hygiene. What I mean by all this is observing the security tips as I have already enumerated to protect yourself,” he said.

    Read Also: Defamation: Police oppose appearance of SAN for Dele Farotimi in Court

    Uche, who appreciated the organisers of the event, called on the citizens to join hands in the fight against cybercrime because it is not something the Nigerian police or security agencies can do alone.

    “It requires a collective approach. That’s why we’re working with some non-governmental organisations, who organised this in conjunction with the Nigerian Police Force Cyber Crime. So, we need all hands to be on deck,” the CP said.

    The finance and administration manager of South Saharan Social Development Organization, Udoamaka Okoye, noted that the group with her S4C partners organnised the freedom walk on cybercrime because it had become a very serious issue with teenagers and young adults, some of who are only concentrating attention on how to hack into systems, yahoo boys and those kind of thing.

    “For us, as a civil society organization, we think that our contribution to curbing this menace is to make people aware of the dangers that come with cybercrime. And in line with Nigerian laws, if you are caught, there are punishments for such actions. We’re telling the youth that whatever it is they are doing, they must be careful not to fall a victim,” she said.