The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Abia to create 5,000 jobs with Enyimba hotel

    Abia to create 5,000 jobs with Enyimba hotel

    The Abia State Government would create about 5000 direct and indirect jobs when the Enyimba International Hotel Aba is completed and opened. 

     Mr. Ukeje Uche , the Director General ,  Greater Aba Development Authority, stated this during the signing of the management agreement between the Abia State government and the Radisson Blu Group, an international hospitality management company.  

    He said the hotel would create about 500 direct jobs while about 4500 jobs would be created through the value chain.

    Speaking on the project, Uche said the plan was to have a 250-room hotel when complete. However, in the first phase, 125 rooms would be completed, while the second phase would see the number of rooms increased to 250 rooms

    By the agreement, Radisson Blu would manage the hotel when completed as a Radisson Blu brand.

     The agreement was signed on Friday, February 11 at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Signing on behave of the Abia state government, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna  said the revitalization of the Enyimba International  Hotel project was part of Abia State Governor Alex  Otti’s promise to revitalize the city of Aba.

    Read Also: EU builds capacity of young Nigerians in governance, politics

    While signing on behalf of Radisson Blu, Mr. Ervan Garnier, the group’s Director of Development for Africa, said Nigeria was a top priority market for Radisson hence the effort to expand the number of properties. 

    His words: “Nigeria is one of the four countries, out of the 54 countries in Africa that we are focusing our expansion. You can see Nigeria is a top priority country for Radisson Blu. Our objective is to double our portfolio in Nigeria. 

    “For that we have created a very specific strategy where we focus on key cities, and key states. Obviously Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt have been on  focus for us, and then we have identified Eastern cities which include Aba which is in Abia State. This is why we are partnering with Abia State. We often look at existing properties, in this case Enyimba, which have multiple benefits, the benefits of often being in a prime location although built a long time ago. Looking at existing property like the one in Abia State allows us, the owners and Aba city to have a product in the market much faster.

    “So, we are very excited by this opportunity and we believe that with the right team put in place, it will be a very successful and good journey for the state and the people of Aba.”

    The project is expected to be completed within 24 months.

  • SEDC: Poised for development

    SEDC: Poised for development

    By Mike Ukoha

    Firstly, permit me to say that all has been put in place for the South East Development Commission (SEDC), to flourish and achieve the purpose for which President Bola Tinubu established it. Recently, the 18-member board was successfully screened and approved by the senate, and its inauguration, we heard, is a few days away.

    As clearly stated in the Act, the Commission has a Board Chairman – Chief Emeka Wogu, a former Minister of Labor/Productivity, Managing Director/CEO – Mark Okoye, five executive directors, five state representatives; and five Zonal representatives.

    The day to day running and decision-making processes are vested in the carefully chosen board members of the  commission. And we say thanks to President Bola Tinubu for nominating men and women of integrity to pilot the affairs and set a solid foundation for its take off.

    Also, thanks go to the Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and his colleagues who sponsored the bill and lobbied for its passage and signing into law.

    It is in the public domain that the National Assembly created two standing committees – House and Senate Committees. These committees have oversight functions to ensure that the commission is performing its functions as enacted in the Act. The oversight functions are periodical or whenever deemed necessary by the Committees. 

    It is common knowledge that in the National Assembly, the House Committee performs more than 60% of the oversight functions while the Senate committee does less than 40%. It is pertinent to state that NASS committees have no executive functions but must ensure that the commission is executing social, economic, and developmental programs as appropriated in the annual budget.

    On Tuesday, October 2, 2024, the House of Representatives appointed the pioneer committee chairman of the recently created South East Development Commission (SEDC),  Hon. Chris Nkwonta, the member representing the good people of Ukwa East/West federal constituency, in the green chamber, has written his name in gold. 

    In the same vein, on February 3, 2025, the Senate replicated the gesture, by appointing Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District in the Red Chamber to Chair the Senate Committee. 

    This is a welcome development, being that as a newly created commission major mandate is to tackle and help develop the Southeast region, their  committees in its oversight functions have a great responsibility to tackle.

    Our people in the Southeast patiently waited for 54 years for the commission to be established. They expect the commission to actualize the reconstruction, reconciliation, and reintegration of the Southeastern. This is our golden opportunity to replan and develop the region.

    It will be a monumental disservice to our people if the chairmen of committees in the National Assembly use their positions to unduly interfere in the operations and functions of the commission. However, their oversight functions are expected to be carried out without compromise.

    Read Also: SEDC: Enugu lawmaker hails Kalu’s appointment

    Nigerians, particularly those from the Igbo community, have high expectations from the commission’s leaders. It is crucial that their trust and confidence are not betrayed. 

    There is a need for the pioneer Chairman of the committee in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chris Nkwota and the Chairman of the committee in the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to always do their oversight functions with synergy and high sense of responsibility, in order to achieve an accelerated development in the region. By doing so, personal interest, must be eschewed, while the mission, vision and provisions expected to help in moving the Southeast forward is genuinely pursued.

    I therefore urge the Commission’s Board Chairman  ably led by Nwadiala Chief Emeka Wogu, to as a matter of urgency, mobilize his wonderful team to action in the quest to achieve the lofty desires of Ndigbo. And if we all wish to see a better Southeast of everyone’s dream, there is need to avoid bitterness, clanishness, gossip, and pull him down syndrome, which has been the barn in our society today. All hands must be on deck.

    Ukoha is former Minority Whip Abia House of Assembly.

  • Kwande Stakeholders Reject 2027 Governorship Position, Endorse Alia for second term

    Kwande Stakeholders Reject 2027 Governorship Position, Endorse Alia for second term

    Kwande Stakeholders, comprising Kwande and Ushongo federal constituencies in Benue North East Senatorial District, have rejected the governorship seat come 2027. Instead, they endorsed Governor Hyacinth Alia to continue and complete his eight years in Government House, Makurdi.

    This decision comes after another group from Kwande declared their interest in the 2027 governorship seat.

    According to the group, Governor Alia will complete the four years of the late Rev. Fr. Moses Adasu, who served only four years in office.

    Leader of the Kwande group, Tornguva Thomos Ugoh, addressed stakeholders on Thursday in Makurdi, Benue state capital, declaring their support for Governor Alia come 2027.

    “Governor Hyacinth is doing well, and there is no reason for us to say we will cut his tenure short. We have no problem with the governorship position; what we want is the Senate seat,” Tornguva stated.

    He further declared, “What we want Governor Alia to do is help us get the Senate seat for Kwande and the House of Representatives seat for Ushongo.”

    Another elder from Ushongo, Abi Terlumun, collaborated with Tornguva, saying, “The issue of Governor Alia’s second term is not in doubt. We want to correct the erroneous impression created by some Kwande sons who are not abreast with happenings back home that we want the 2027 governorship position.”

    Abi Terlumun added, “For the record, our son, Late Aper Aku, did very well, but his administration was cut short by the military. So, it is our hope that in 2027, a Kwande son will become a senator, while Ushongo will take the position of House of Representatives, and at the end of Governor Alia’s eight-year tenure, Kwande will demand the governorship seat.”

    Also speaking, a youth leader from Kwande Ushongo, Hon. Iorsue Tile, said, “Since 1999, all federal constituencies in Benue North East Senatorial District, namely Sankera and Jechira, have produced Senate seats except Kwande. Now is our turn; we are no longer going to loan it out.”

    Hon. Tile stated, “We can’t constitute a stumbling block to Governor Hyacinth Alia’s second-term ambition. It is wrong to deny him a second term because it is his constitutional right.”

    The group noted that Governor Alia has done much for the people of Kwande and Ushongo by providing numerous political appointments, constructing more roads, and tackling insecurity occasions by herdsmen, which the governor has provided security to protect their people.

    “So, we reject the position of some Kwande people that Kwande should gun for the governorship position in 2027,” Hon. Tile said.

    The group concluded that Kwande will take their Senate seat and vote for Governor Alia for a second to brithen their chances in 3031.

  • The dilemma of APC Anambra: A call for introspection and re-strategisation

    The dilemma of APC Anambra: A call for introspection and re-strategisation

    By Hon. Pope Obinna Amaefuna

    The All Progressives Congress assumed leadership of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2015 and for ten years, the Anambra State chapter of the party has been unable to capitalize on this vital political advantage to reposition the party in Anambra State, rather the party has repeatedly lost elections in the state and has failed to replicate the federal successes of the party at the state and local government levels of Anambra state.

    Historically, this reality is out-rightly unusual considering the peculiarities of the Nigerian political culture.

    While there are undeniable socio-cultural factors at play, it is general desideratum that a ruling party at the federal level should offer some level of political leverage and bestow some form of positive impetus on the party formations at the lower strata’s of government. It is therefore worrying that the APC in Anambra state is yet to get her act together in almost a decade.

    Under the right trajectory, APC Anambra should be maximizing her electoral capabilities and broadening her frontiers by tapping into the political relevance of the party at the center, harnessing available resources, ensuring quality candidature and optimal mobilization of the state infrastructure to reinvent the party and reposition her in Anambra State.

    While the personality and leadership philosophy of the commander in chief has a huge impact of the growth of the party, It is pertinent to highlight that the obtainment between the idealist orientation of Mohammed Buhari’s administration should ordinarily be in sharp contrast with that of President Tinubu who is by all standards, a thorough bred politician. A true party man with a deep understanding of party politics and even deeper knowledge and experience on how best to politic for the benefit of partymen and growth of his party.

    However, President Tinubu has through his actions and inactions publicly demonstrated his lack of faith in the APC as constituted in Anambra state and there are glaring pointers to this effect while uncertainty becloud opinions on the causation.

    From the appointment of non APC members to strategic federal positions traditionally reserved as reward for party faithfuls to his seeming commitment to ensuring that the beneficiaries of his appointments are card carrying members from the top hierarchy of the local ruling party in Anambra state, the APGA.

    More damning is the fact that these appointments appear to be calculated political moves unfolding in the build-up of the 2025 Anambra guber election slated for 8th November.

    What could be wrong?

    Are there no good heads and sound minds in Anambra APC?

    How would empowering the opposition help strengthen the APC in Anambra state?

    Why is President Tinubu overlooking his party men in Anambra State and making decisions that could be interpreted as antiparty activity that has the potential to demoralize loyal party men?

    What could have informed this unusual policy drive by a thorough bred politician who propagated unconditional party loyalty as a guiding principle in politics and “Emi-Lokan-ism” as reward for such loyalty?

    Some school of thought allude that President Tinubu’s seeming preference for card carrying APGA members is a calculated attempt to balkanize APGA and rally Southeast support for his planned 2027 reelection campaign. According to the theory, Tinubu is most likely attempting to connect himself with a party that has historical significance in the Southeast by courting APGA, but this is a very misleading idea.

    A man of Tinubu’s political acumen cannot be given to such political naivety because in reality, every informed and grounded politician knows that the political relevance of APGA is greatly exaggerated. The results of recent senatorial, house of reps and state house of assembly elections in Anambra state is testament to the fact that Anambra voters are highly republican and no political party can claim exclusive rights or control over the state political mandates or voting pattern.

    Another school of thought likened the situation in Anambra State to that of Rivers state where an Ex-governor who is still a card carrying member of the PDP is now serving as the minister of the FCT under the Tinubu Administration. These class of political analysts argue that while Gov Soludo still governs Anambra state on an APGA mandate, That it is pertinent to note that he is still a member of the presidential economic team hence the president might consider the APGA governor a more reliable ally.

    The comparism appears lopsided considering the fact that Wike of Rivers is no longer serving as governor of his state neither does he have 100% control of the PDP structure in the oil rich state. Most importantly is the fact that in the months leading up to the 2023 presidential elections, the FCT minister played a crucial divisive and destabilizing role in the PDP that balkanized the party structures and jeopardized the chances of the party at the national level and his antics continues to divide the party till date.

    The situation in Anambra state is distinctive as Gov. Soludo is still a serving governor and the leader of APGA bound by his party mandate ans constitution. Aside his portfolio, Gov Soludo is severely restricted by the prevailing sentiments of the Igbo nationalist struggles from engaging in some behaviors that might be deemed detrimental to the inferred aspirations of Igbo nationalists and fundamentalists so in essence, Soludo’s hands are tied so tightly that he risks losing his second term bid if he dares to toe the path of Wike.

    It is worthy to note that APGA of today is wobbly and standing on shaky grounds. The party lost her appeal in the Southeast region long ago leading to mass exodus of various southeast governors from the self depreciative idea of a regional political party of ethnic identity.

    To further cement her place as a dying party in her twilight and in her last frontier which is Anambra state, the state Governor, CC Soludo failed to deliver his own ward for APGA in the 2023 presidential election and the APGA presidential candidate failed to win a single polling unit in the entire Anambra state in the election.

    How then will an alliance with APGA deliver Tinubu’s APC in 2027?

    This leaves us with clear causative interpretation of the actions of the presidency in Anambra State.

    ✓ LACK OF TRUST FOR ANAMBRA APC LEADERSHIP AND TRAJECTORY.

    ✓ HISTORY OF INTERNAL SABOTAGE OF PARTY CANDIDATES DUE TO PERSONAL INTEREST AND GREED OF APC ANAMBRA PARTY STAKEHOLDERS AND MEMBERS IN ANAMBRA STATE.

    ✓ DEARTH OF GENUINE COMMITMENT and INSINCERITY OF PURPOSE BY POWER PLAYERS and STAKEHOLDERS IN THE PARTY.

    These factors have become a reoccurring decimal within the party in the last decade.

    The undisputable truth is that over the years, the successive leaderships and stakeholders of Anambra APC has not shown any sign of genuine commitment to reposition the party for success therefore it is not surprising to unbiased political observers that President Tinubu has completely ignored the party in his federal appointments less than ten months to the guber election in the state.

    President Tinubu’s trajectory is not really unexpected because delegative leadership thrives on TRUST and no leader who wants to make genuine positive impact would willfully embarked on any sort of project with characters or institutions with chequered history and uncertain prospects.

    The presidency obviously does not trust the party as presently constituted in Anambra State and antecedents justifies his stand.

    The lack of plausible intent to deploy the instrument of state and sundry political cum economic paraphernalia to support or strengthen APC Anambra is justifiable because the party has gained notoriority for self sabotage as stakeholders has brazingly and repeatedly worked against their own candidates in past elections while destabilizing party structures for pecuniary gains.

    It is on record that APC Anambra has never headed into any guber election with a unified front or structure because before each gubernatorial race, the party would always end up divided due to internal sabotage and the lack of free, fair, and credible primaries. To compound issue more, successive leaderships of the party at the state level have also failed to settle post primaries issues amicably by assuaging aggrieved member and assuring them of the protection of their interests.

    These antecedents of betrayals, poor leadership, selfish power plays, avarice, and anti party activities abundantly evident in the politics of APC Anambra state remain the bane of the party and the cataclysmic effects were clearly manifest in the 2017 and 2021 guber elections.

    These factors and more have held the party hostage and have ultimately stifled her growth for almost a decade in Anambra state.

    A clear action plan must be put in place to rebrand the image of APC Anambra at the federal level and regain the confidence of the presidency as his support is critical and indispensible if the APC in Anambra will stand any chance at the November 8th Guber election,

    There is need to reposition our great party at the ward and local government levels through strategic consultation, ideological reorientation and mass sensitization against vices like vote merchandizing and disenfranchisement.

    The presidential snub of sound brilliant minds and qualified APC stalwarts in Anambra, such as His Excellency Amb Dr. Elijah Onyeagba, Hon Johnbosco Onunkwo, Hon, Ifeanyi Ibezim, His Excellency Dr. Nkem Okeke, Dr. Valentine Iyke-Oliobi, MP. Chukwuma Umeoji, etc should be a call for deeper retrospection and re-strategization. 

    The entry of political heavyweights like Obiora Okonkwo and Nicholas Ukachukwu to the party should be handled with decorum and maturity and the interest of the party should and must come first before personal interest. 

    The old members of the party should view the entry of these heavyweights as a boost to the fold and a means to strengthen the capacity and human resource base of APC Anambra instead of viewing it from the various negative prisms available. The new entrants should also consult widely with old party stakeholders and apply caution in their conduct and utterances so they don’t appear as those who came to highjack the party structure and reap from where they didn’t sow. Those who lose at the primaries must also strive to remain in the party and deliver the candidate if the leadership of the party succeeds in conducting a free and fair elections without favouritism or dubious manipulation of any kind or nature.

    As a matter of urgency, the leadership and stakeholders of the Anambra APC should humble themselves and consult widely. There is need to jettison ego, shelve selfish interests and take all necessary steps to bring the party together.

    Despite the apparent distrust of the presidency for the party hierarchy and formation in Anambra state, there appear to be an exception to the Anambra APC malady and he is High Chief Ekene Enefe.

    While the presidency has repeatedly snubbed many Anambra APC stalwarts and stakeholders, the commander in chief has in stark contrast repeatedly demonstrated his unwavering confidence on Chief Enefe by nominating and confirming his dual appointments into multiple federal parastatals.

    Few months after the inauguration of the president, The presidency confirmed the appointment of Chief Enefe into the governing board of a federal tertiary institution in Daura, the home town of ex president Mohammadu Buhari.  

    Few months down the line, Owing to the stellar performance of Chief Enefe at Daura, President Tinubu has once again approved his appointment as federal commissioner for revenue mobilization, allocation and fiscal commission.

    The accomplishments of Chief Enefe is purely merit and performance based. A regular face at the villa and trusted ally of the presidency, Chief Enefe has remarkably distinguished himself with his unblemished track record of commitment, uncompromising forthrightness, stewardship, fecundatory mobilization of human and intellectual resources, accountability, loyalty, uprightness, honesty and productivity. Qualities that has endeared him to the presidency.

    It is imperative to assert that what president Tinubu has sought for in Anambra APC without success seem to be abundantly available in Chief Enefe.

    While the appointment of APGA members instead APC members in Anambra State is a very sad and demoralizing development, The realities of the development should inspire the necessary soul searching and catalyze the much needed change.

    To reposition APC in Anambra state, The Party Exco’s must as a matter of urgency consult Chief Enefe on practical and actionable modalities necessary for the rebranding and repackaging of the party to facilitate some form of synergy with the federal government. 

    There is an urgent need to leverage on Chief Enefe’s federal clout, vast political contacts and expertise if we must save the APC in Anambra State and reposition her on the path to growth. 

    A party with over 240k registered members in the state and executive powers at the center has the potential to unseat any political party and should not be habitually playing catch up every election year despite her access to consolidated federal support system and backing.

    Considering the prevailing socio-cultural realities of the Igbo nation, the chances of APC reinventing herself and winning elections in Anambra state remains very slim without full support from the presidency.

    As we march towards November 8th elections, Navigating towards “Enefe-ism” is the way forward and might be the proverbial stitch in time that might yet save nine,

    The time to bridge the gap between Anambra APC and the presidency is now and Chief Ekene Enefe has the capacity to make it happen.

    Hon. Pope Obinna Amaefuna. An APC Stakeholder writes from Amaeze village Oraukwu, Anambra State.

  • Amaechi, three others don’t want Tinubu’s government to succeed, Arewa youths allege

    Amaechi, three others don’t want Tinubu’s government to succeed, Arewa youths allege

    The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria (RAYCN) has raised the alarm over alleged plot by former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Sokoto Governor Attahiru Bafarawa and Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi to frustrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    At a briefing on Thursday, the group claimed that the trio is working to ensure the government does not succeed in its plans and programmes. 

    National President, Bilal Abdulahi, also claimed they are reportedly launching a campaign of calumny against the administration.

    He added: “It is clear that their intention and their several meetings are aimed at intimidating the government President Tinubu, and the various organs of government and make the citizens feel that the government and her various organs are not doing sufficient enough to take the people to prosperity.

    Read Also: Tinubu unbothered by criticisms from Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi – Jimoh Ibrahim

     “This is nothing short of an attempt to overawe a democratic institution. It is clear that ever since their defeat at the polls by President Bola Tinubu, these three elements have not hidden their hate and disdain but for the person and organs of the various governments. 

    “It is however unfortunate that this hatred and disdain is pushing them to act against the office of the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and rule of law. They must consequently be stopped with all might and not be allowed to go further.”

    The group urged youths, religious organisations, and lovers of peace and democracy to support President Tinubu’s administration in its efforts to reform the country.

  • Edo guber tribunal: Group urges fairness, transparency

    Edo guber tribunal: Group urges fairness, transparency

    A group, Unique Minds of Edo Heritage Organisation (UMEHO), has called on the judges in the ongoing Edo governorship tribunal case sitting in Abuja to be fair and transparent in handling all election cases brought before them.

    Apostle Jerry Oshodin, the national coordinator of the group made the call at a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

    Apostle Jerry particularly advised the judges of the tribunal to critically look into the cade challenging the INEC result that declared Senator Monday Okpebholo winner of the Edo governorship election held on the 21 of September 2024.

    “We recognise the importance of a fair and impartial judiciary in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding democratic principles; the judiciary plays a critical role in ensuring justice, protection of citizens’ rights and preserving the credibility of the electoral process.

    “Any actions that compromise these principles are undermining the very foundation of any democratic nation.

    “Without a functioning judiciary, there is a risk of constitutional violations going unchecked, leading to the erosion of citizens’ rights and freedoms.

    “But the fairness and transparency of the judicial system are vital in fostering public trust, confidence, and belief in the democratic process,”he said.

    The national coordinator further stated that, “It is imperative to emphasise that any attempt to manipulate or subvert the will of the people using judicial tools will not be accepted.

    “The foundation of a robust democracy lies in the integrity of the electoral system and the adherence to fair and transparent processes.

    “The citizens of Edo State  have exercised their democratic rights, and their voices must be heard and honoured.

    “Attempts to undermine the sanctity of these elections will not only jeopardise the democratic principles that Nigeria upholds but also erode public trust in the electoral process.

    “We call upon all stakeholders, including the electoral authorities and the judiciary, to ensure a thorough and unbiased judgement as we trust the judges of the tribunal to deliver sound judgment,” the Coordinator called.

    Apostle Jerry advised that the popular mandate expressed through the electoral process must be respected by all toward ensuring a sustained democratic value in Nigeria.

    He also called on the judiciary to punish any INEC staff and security agents involved in any election manipulation.

  • Assessing PAPS’s role in AU’s Agenda 2063

    Assessing PAPS’s role in AU’s Agenda 2063

    By Ekemini Ladejobi

    Africa is faced with various degrees of security challenges. In the west is Boko Haram and other mushroom insurgents, in the east is Al-Shabaab, the conflicts in the north are on many fronts while in the south, terrorists are harassing Mozambique.

    In 2024, over 11,200 people died in the Sahel region of Africa alone due to militant Islamist violence.

    This number is more than triple the number of deaths in 2021, according to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies.

    To address this challenge, given its transborder nature, requires a robust response from the continental body, the African Union (AU).

    Observers of the security situation on the continent say the AU Commission’s (AUC) Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS) is advancing a transformative agenda for peace, security, and governance across Africa.

    Under the leadership of Amb. Bankole Adeoye, the current AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, the department has reinforced the AU’s role as a proactive, unified force in addressing continental challenges.

    PAPS is one of six portfolios rationalised and established during the 11th Extraordinary Session held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Nov. 17-18, 2018.

    The department was created as a merger of the Political Affairs, and Peace and Security departments, which used to be two separate entities.

    The AU said the new department focuses on one of the four key priorities of the continental body: political affairs, peace and security, economic integration, and Africa’s global representation and voice.

    AU also said PAPS’ mandate was developed from its larger Pan-African vision as defined in the aspirations of Agenda 2063, especially Aspirations 3 and 4.

    While Aspiration 3 envisions “an Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law”, Aspiration 4 envisions “a peaceful and secure Africa”.

    Some of the core functions of PAPS include continuous monitoring of Africa’s political, peace and security trends; and timely assessment, analysis and reporting on political, peace and security trends through early warning systems.

    It supports conflict prevention through the development and dissemination of legal and policy frameworks on governance, political, peace, and security issues.

    It also supports conflict management efforts, including peace-support operations as well as mediation and dialogue interventions; and supports post-conflict reconstruction and development policy and strategy development.

    Some stakeholders say that although challenges persist, Adeoye’s vision since his election in 2021 has helped equip PAPS for success.

    Mr Brian Kwayedza, a Zimbabwean lawyer and international affairs analyst, said Adeoye’s vision emphasises accelerating the implementation of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA).

    He said the same vision has also helped to fast-track the African Governance Architecture (AGA), which he said is guided by shared values of peace and development.

    “Over the past three going to four years, the PAPS has made significant strides. Peace enforcement has been prioritised as a strategic tool to combat violent extremism and terrorism.

    “The department facilitated the peace process that led to the signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front in Pretoria on November 2, 2022.

    “In addition, PAPS provided strategic and operational support to the Peace and Security Council (PSC), enhancing early warning systems and informed decision-making through regular consultations,” he said.

    Others credit the commissioner for an improved early warning mechanism, as well as conflict prevention, mediation and management.

    They cite the Ethiopia-Tigray peace process, which culminated in the landmark 2022 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, as being facilitated by Adeoye and his team.

    “He launched the AU Inter-Regional Knowledge Exchange on Early Warning and Conflict Prevention (I-RECKE), which has helped in fostering collaboration among regional and international stakeholders.

    “Improved early warning capabilities has led to increased intelligence-sharing among bodies such as the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services and the AU Mechanism for Police Cooperation,” an analyst said.

    However, critics say the AU has barely done enough in terms of conflict prevention, entrenching good governance, and preventing/countering violent extremism on the continent.

    “Africa has recently experienced unprecedented unconstitutional regime changes, increased activities of violent extremists, and higher trans-border terrorism and terrorism funding.

    “It appears that the AU is stuck on a weak conflict management system, which makes many refer to it as a toothless bulldog.

    “For instance, what concrete measures has it taken against the juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Gabon and Chad?” an analyst asked.

    They said those responsibilities solely or partly fall within the purview of PAPS.

    In 2024, Nigeria hosted a two-day high-level African counter-terrorism summit in the capital, Abuja, which aimed to bolster regional cooperation and institutional capacity.

    With the theme “Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Institution Building to Address the Evolving Threat of Terrorism”, the meeting proffered “African-led and African-owned” solutions to the threats of terrorism and violent extremism that have made the continent a hotbed.

    One of the issues that came up for deliberation at the summit was the operationalisation of the African Standby Force to enhance the continent’s capacity for rapid response to conflicts.

    If he happens to be re-elected in March, some stakeholders said Adeoye should collaborate more in the area of strengthening the institutional capacity of the AUC, especially specialised agencies of the commission.

    Some of the agencies include the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT), the AU Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL) and the AU Centre for Post-conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD).

    The AUC also needs global support in strengthening existing counter-terrorism structures such as the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit (RIFU), the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT), and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA).

    In May 2022, at the Declaration of the 16th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union Assembly, the continent’s leaders agreed to establish the African Union Ministerial Committee on Counter-Terrorism.

    It said the committee was to serve as a high-level coordination, monitoring, evaluation and follow-up mechanism for the implementation of the commitments made in its Malabo Declaration.

    Analysts want PAPS under Adeoye to explore better cooperation and synergy in these areas.

    Those who want to see the commissioner re-elected in March say he has mobilised resources for the MNJTF and advanced the Lake Chad Basin Stabilisation Strategy by attracting development partners for post-conflict reconstruction.

    Read Also: PAPSS enters North Africa as BCT Tunisia joins membership list

    They also say he has adopted a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for the AU’s Master Roadmap on Silencing the Guns by 2030, thereby driving accountability and progress.

    However, PAPS faces critical challenges, some of which Adeoye himself alluded to, including a limited budget for peace and security, and a ⁠lack of human resources and capacity in the department.

    They also listed the exponential spread of terrorism and violent extremism; external interference in African conflicts; and ⁠resumed acute geopolitical competition on the continent as some of the challenges facing PAPS.

    Nevertheless, stakeholders want the department to continue to champion pan-African ideals for effective governance, peace and stability in line with AU’s Agenda 2063 – The Africa We Want.

  • 480 students get free learning materials in Enugu school

    480 students get free learning materials in Enugu school

    No fewer than 480 students of the Government Secondary School, Enugu were on Wednesday gifted with school supplies by a telecoms service provider, MTN Nigeria, through its MTN Foundation.

    The programme was part of MTN Foundation(MTNF) Learning Support Materials Initiative(LSMI)-Agenda designed to empower new students of junior secondary school (JSS 1) with essential academic tools.

    Speaking during the presentation of the learning materials to the students, the Regional manager, operations, Southeast, MTN, Mr. Kallima Inino, said that the initiative contributes to MTN’s mission of enhancing education.

    He noted that the school was nominated by the wife of the Enugu State governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, for the support, adding that the foundation also opens to nominations from stakeholders in society for different MTNF initiatives.

    “Our commitment is to foster an enabling environment for learning and support access to quality education.

    “At MTN Nigeria Foundation, we believe that education is the cornerstone of growth and development, and every student deserves access to the resources necessary to unlock their full potentia,” Inino said.

    He noted that several other initiatives were being carried out in various schools across the country, including students with special needs.

    “We believe this would be another stepping stones toward academic excellence of the students,“ he said.

    The governor’s wife, Nkechinyere Mbah, who was represented by the senior special assistant to the governor on special duties, Barr. Chidimma Egeonu, lauded MTN Foundation for their continuous nature of giving back to the society in many ways, particularly through education.

    While noting that her office was ever ready to partner with the foundation, she disclosed that the foundation’s efforts resonates with her works across schools in the state.

    She further tasked the foundation to scale up the initiative to address inclusivity, particularly students with special needs, most of who need some of the interventions most in the society.

    The principal of the school , Barr. Ijeoma Onuigbo in her address, expressed happiness that her school was chosen for the kind gesture meant to support students.

    Onuigbo said that the learning materials would be valuable in “supporting our students’ academic journey. With these tools, our students will not explore, but will discover new ideas and perspectives and succeed in their academic endeavours”.

    While noting that all the 480 students are in Junior Secondary Class 1, smthe principal appealed for more infrastructure to enable the school accommodate the huge number of intakes seeking admission into the school.

  • MTN gifts Catholic pupils education materials in Anambra

    MTN gifts Catholic pupils education materials in Anambra

    Telecommunications network providers, MTN, has provided education materials worth millions to Saint Theresa’s Secondary School, in Anambra State

    Some of the materials are books, school bags, umbrellas and no fewer than 300 students benefitted. 

    Addressing the students, the MTN Senior Manager, Regional Operations, Southeast, Emmanuel Osumah,said it was the only way the network providers could encourage the pupils.

    He thanked the Chairman, Umuakwu Community Development Union (UCDU), Mr. Nnaeto Akpamgbo, the Principal of the school, Fr Martin Ekee, members of the school management, for the warm reception

    Osumah said: “Today, we gather for an initiative that contributes to our mission of enhancing education. 

    “At MTN Nigeria Foundation, we believe that education is the cornerstone of growth and development, and every student deserves access to the resources necessary to unlock their full potential. 

    “We are happy to present the MTNF Learning Support Material Initiative (LSMI), a program designed to empower students with essential academic tools. 

    “Our commitment is to foster an enabling environment for learning and support access to quality education. 

    “To our students, these materials are more than just supplies to support your studies; they are stepping stones toward your aspirations. 

    “Their true impact depends on how you choose to use them. Strive for excellence, and let your dedication, discipline and Focus shape your learning journey,” he said

    Rev Fr Ekee and the Chairman of the village, Nnaeto Akpamgbo, praised MTN for the largesse.

    Two of the students, Chinecherem Johnpaul, Maduka Prosper and Okpalaojiego Victor, hailed the network providers for remembering their school.

    They said it has helped some of the families that cannot provide for some of them.

  • Eno dedicates ‘Governor of the Year’ Award to deputy, predecessors

    Eno dedicates ‘Governor of the Year’ Award to deputy, predecessors

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has dedicated the Governor of the Year Award—bestowed upon him by ThisDay Newspapers and Arise TV—to his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; all past Governors of the state; and specifically, his immediate predecessor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, CON. 

    Speaking at the Victor Attah International Airport upon his return from the award ceremony, Governor Eno expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from stakeholders and the people of Akwa Ibom across party lines.

    He attributed the recognition to the contributions of these key figures. 

    He praised his deputy, Senator Eyakenyi, for her unwavering support and role in maintaining peace, which has allowed his administration to stay focused on development. 

    Governor Eno also acknowledged his predecessors, including Arc. Obong Victor Attah, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Mr. Udom Emmanuel, stated that their efforts laid the foundation upon which he continues to build. 

    In a special tribute, he dedicated the award to Mr. Udom Emmanuel, emphasizing that his steadfast support was instrumental in his emergence as Governor and the recognition he is receiving today.

    “This award, for me, is dedicated to three sets of people. The first person is our Deputy Governor, Her Excellency, Distinguished Senator Akon Eyakenyi, PhD. She has given me all the necessary support.

    “The second group comprises all former Governors of this State, from Obong Victor Attah to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and to the immediate past Governor, my political father, Deacon Udom Emmanuel. You know that in this State, God has blessed us with Governors who have continuously raised the bar.”

    He appreciated the people of the State for their support and for coming out en masse to receive him, saying he has been nominated for other awards, which, he noted, will also be dedicated to the people of the State.

    Recall that the Governor had dedicated the Leadership Newspaper award as Governor of the Year, 2024, to his wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno, who sadly passed away last year, and to the immediate past State Executive Council (EXCO) members.

    “As of today, we have about four groups recognizing us as Governor of the Year: Leadership Newspaper; the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), which recognized me as Tourism Governor of the Year; New Telegraph, which named us Governor of the Year, Human Capacity Development, 2024; and the Security Watch Africa Initiatives, which recognized us as Nigeria’s Most Consistent Security-Supporting Governor, 2024.

    Read Also: Governor Eno: My focus is good governance for A’Ibom, not political gamesmanship

    “This harvest of awards could not have been possible without your support. So, we thank all of you.”

    He appreciated the Founding Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of ThisDay and Arise News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, and the entire management team for identifying and recognizing the modest efforts of his administration towards delivering the dividends of democracy to the people and for their independent assessment.

    The governor said the award was a source of inspiration to him and assured that the government, under his leadership, will redouble its efforts towards the development of the State.

     “I thank all of those institutions that have recognized what we are doing. Particularly on this occasion, I want to thank ThisDay and Arise TV for their independent assessment. But I also understand that to whom much is given, much is expected.

     “I promise you that we will continue to put in our effort—double and redouble our efforts—towards the development of our State. We will not stop until we accomplish all of the things that God has put in our hearts through the ARISE Agenda,” he added.