Tag: Ribadu

• Names heads for NERDC, NEPAD, SMDF/PAGMI

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu as the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), marking a key step in his administration’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s higher education system.

 Prof. Ribadu, a visiting professor at the NUC, is a distinguished academic and expert in veterinary reproduction.

He previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and Sule Lamido University, Jigawa State.

His wealth of experience in academic leadership is expected to drive reforms in the nation’s university system.

 Announcing the appointment yesterday in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted his confidence in Prof. Ribadu’s ability to bring transformative changes to the NUC.

“With his proven track record, Prof. Ribadu will provide the leadership needed to fulfill Nigerians’ expectations for quality and innovative higher education,” the President stated.

The appointment of Prof. Ribadu leads a series of other key announcements by the President.

Prof. Salisu Shehu was named the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

Prof. Shehu, an expert in educational and human psychology, was instrumental in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and previously served as Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano.

Read Also: Ribadu to 1700 PAP scholarship beneficiaries: go for academic excellence

For the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD), Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri was appointed National Coordinator.

Tsauri, a seasoned administrator with expertise in international affairs and governance, holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University.

The President also approved the renewal of the appointment of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi as the executive secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

She was first appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari and is said to be one of the driving forces of the changes in the solid mineral sector.

The earlier announcement about the appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI, has been cancelled as there is no vacancy in the agency.

…we’re strengthening human capital base in Niger Delta, says Otuaro

National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu has challenged beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) scholarship scheme to be shining examples in their universities of study.

He gave the advice on Friday in his remarks at the orientation programme for 1, 700 beneficiaries deployed in various Nigerian institutions by the PAP for the 2024/2025 academic session in Warri, Delta State.

Represented by his Special Assistant on Niger Delta, Mr. Goodluck Ebelo, the NSA urged the students to take full advantage of the scheme to acquire higher education and contribute to national growth and development after graduation.

The NSA further told the students that expectations concerning their academic journey were very high as he advised them to be well-behaved throughout the duration of their courses of study.

He said: “With this scholarship given to you, you have a huge opportunity to excel in your studies. Please, be shining lights in your different institutions of study and the expectation is that you will be very good students of this country.”

PAP Administrator Dr. Dennis Otuaro noted that the deployment of the beneficiaries signified a consolidation of the Niger Delta human resources base through the scholarship scheme..

Otuaro identified formal education as a critical component of the PAP’s intervention aimed at creating opportunities for the youths of the region, particularly indigent students from impacted communities, to achieve their dream of getting a university education.

The PAP boss said: “By sponsoring you for undergraduate studies, the PAP has taken a bold step to strategically deepen the Niger Delta formal education trajectory of bridging the human capital development gap to foster the region’s social-economic status. In fact, this is my desire and vision for our people.

Read Also: Ribadu seeks understanding, collaboration of media, security agencie

“The selection process for the award of scholarships to beneficiaries for the 2024/2025 academic session was open, transparent, and thorough and I take responsibility for the process. 

“We have, as a result, deployed about 1,700 students for this academic session. My leadership would always maintain high standards and work hard to ensure everyone was fairly treated in the selection process.”

He urged the students to be peace ambassadors of the Niger Delta expected to focus on their studies, and shun cultism and other social vices while respecting the laws of their schools for them “to be found worthy in character and learning” at graduation.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed delight at the incredible academic progress that PAP scholarship beneficiaries were making in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

He expressed appreciation to the President and the NSA for their support for the programme and avowed commitment to peace, human capital development, and economic growth of the region via the Renewed Hope Ageda (RHA).

PAP’s Head of Formal Education, Dr Charles Ariye, urged the beneficiaries to realise that the scholarship award was more than a monetary award because it represented their dedication to their personal progress, development, and success.

He encouraged them to use this opportunity to better themselves by learning from their academic mentors and also contributing to their academic communities.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Pere of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom and first Vice Chairman, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM King S. P Luke; and the Founder of Leadership, Peace and Cultural Development Initiative, Pastor Reuben Wilson, admonished the students to avoid shortcuts to academic success.

Speaking for other beneficiaries, Blessing Appollos (Bayelsa State, Igbinedion University); Fyneman John-Pere (Edo State, Edwin Clark University), and Ezekiel Appeal, (Delta State, Novena University), thanked the PAP Aadministrator for granting them the scholarship, saying the gesture would help them a great deal in their studies.

The National Security Adviser (NSA) to the president, Nuhu Ribadu, has called for greater collaboration and mutual understanding between the media and security agencies to strengthen Nigeria’s civic space and ensure journalists’ safety. 

This is as  media practitioners, civil rights activists and civil society organizations (CSO) called for better understanding for robust collaboration between the media and security agencies while discharging their respective obligations to the public.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at a high-level meeting with leaders of security sector, news media and other stakeholders on safety of journalists and civic space, organized by the Wole Soyinka Institute for Investigative Journalism (WSIIJ), the NSA underscored the pivotal role of the media in shaping public perception, fostering national unity, and holding institutions accountable. 

The event themed ‘Promoting Mutual Understanding for a More Robust Civic Space and Journalists’ Safety’, was aimed at building consensus on ensuring the safety of journalists and fostering collaboration among security forces, media organizations, civil society, and the judiciary to create a safer and more inclusive civic space for all.

The NSA stressed the need for both parties to prioritize cooperation in navigating the challenges of contemporary governance and security.

Acknowledging the occasional tensions between journalists and security agencies, the NSA, who was represented by Maj. Gen. Samad Akesode emphasized the importance of fostering respect and dialogue to dispel misconceptions about the government’s intentions. 

He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the media within the framework of existing laws while recognizing the global challenges journalists face, including harassment and intimidation. 

Ribadu urged the media to embrace fact-based reporting, avoid sensationalism, and focus on solution-driven narratives that promote national cohesion and stability. 

He described the media as critical gatekeepers whose influence could either incite conflict or promote peace, enjoining them to endeavor to highlight and contribute to building a hopeful, unified national narrative.

Read Also: Arewa Think Tank hails Ribadu over comments on new terrorist group

In turn, he encouraged security agencies to recognize the media’s indispensable role in enhancing transparency and accountability. 

He advocated for regular dialogue, capacity building, and self-regulation as key strategies for improving relationships between both sectors. 

By prioritizing collaboration, the NSA asserted, it would be possible to create an environment where information flows freely, and both journalists and security personnel can thrive.

While reaffirming the government’s dedication to press freedom and openness, he noted that a thriving civic space is vital for Nigeria’s progress. 

“The environment for free speech is intact, we all need ourselves and continue to build trust and confidence amongst ourselves but we need to check our excesses, with the same goal of national security in mind,” he said. 

He called on all stakeholders to work collectively towards a society where diverse voices are heard, journalists operate safely, and democracy is strengthened, while emphasising that such commitment would uphold the principles of justice and foster national development.

Veteran journalist Richard Akintola described Ribadu’s approach as offering hope for better collaboration. 

However, Danlami Modu and Tunde Alabi of AIT criticized the government’s commitment to media freedom, citing instances of harassment by security agencies. 

They argued that the NSA’s professed ideals have yet to permeate the field level.  

Shagari Sambo of Arise Television noted the sensitivity of national security issues, urging journalists to adhere to the rule of law while advocating for mutual respect. 

Muskilu Mojeed, the Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times echoed the same sentiment, calling for reorientation of security agencies and top-level forums to improve media-security relations.  

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) urged the NSA to address the misuse of outdated laws and the criminalization of civil disputes, emphasizing the need for journalists to be equipped with legal knowledge. 

Similarly, senior lawyer Yunis Abdulsalam stressed adherence to legal frameworks by both journalists and security agents to reduce conflicts.  

Former Army spokesman, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade (rtd) commended the initiative, noting improvements in media-security relations but calling for a mindset shift to avoid complicating crises. 

Meanwhile, Abdulaziz Abdulazziz highlighted the current administration’s accessibility to the media, urging practitioners to embrace self-regulation and tackle the challenges posed by social media.  

Motunrayo Alaka, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of WSCIJ highlighted alarming findings from the report Hushed Voices in an Election Year, which revealed that 90% of attacks on journalists occur during elections and protests. 

According to her, State actors accounted for 68% of these violations, often in spaces meant to symbolize democracy, such as polling units and court premises. 

She called for proactive measures to protect journalists and civic freedoms, emphasizing that a safer environment for reporters fosters public trust and strengthens democratic institutions.  

The event underscored the importance of collective action to protect civic spaces, promote understanding, and ensure the safety of journalists, which are critical for Nigeria’s democratic growth. 

Participants called for actionable solutions, fostering collaboration among media, security agencies, civil society, and the judiciary for a more inclusive and resilient civic environment.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has appointed Lami Chinade, as the Director of the newly created State Liaison Directorate in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The appointment came after President Bola Tinubu approved the creation of the directorate.

Chinade’s appointment was contained in a statement from ONSA on Tuesday, October 15.

According to the statement, the directorate was part of President Tinubu’s efforts to “enhance proactive coordination on national security matters with States and Local Government Areas (LGAs)”.

It said the outlining directorate would be responsible for overseeing the implementation and follow-up of joint decisions between State Governors and the ONSA.

It emphasised that the creation of the DSL was driven by the need to monitor and assess the impact of national security policies on state governance and local development.

The statement added that the directorate was also designed to facilitate dialogue and negotiations to address potential conflicts between states and national security entities.

It said: “Key functions will include maintaining a comprehensive database of contact persons at the state and local levels and developing community engagement programs in collaboration with Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Read Also: Northern CSOs commend NSA Ribadu, Matawalle over decisive actions against bandits

“The directorate will play a critical role in ensuring smooth coordination of national security policies at the state and local levels.

“It will also focus on conflict resolution, identifying areas for improvement, and fostering cooperation to enhance national security service delivery across all states.

“Additionally, the DSL will act as a liaison between state authorities and the federal government to ensure clear communication, effective collaboration, and alignment of security priorities.”

According to the statement, the new director would provide strategic leadership and oversight for the directorate, “working closely with key stakeholders at the state and local levels, including civil society organizations.

“Her role will also involve deploying monitoring mechanisms for data collection and evaluation of national security programs, providing regular updates to the National Security Adviser.”

Chinade, a lawyer by profession, brings over 30 years of experience across diverse industries.

“Her previous roles include Head of the Monitoring Unit and Senior Legal Officer at the National Human Rights Commission, as well as Chief Operating Officer in the downstream operations of a leading petroleum resources company,” the statement said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the Bill establishing the National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) to curb proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country.

The National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu disclosed this on Tuesday at the workshop on gender mainstreaming in preventing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria and West Africa.

There is an estimated 500 million illegal weapons in circulation in West Africa out of which 200 million are said to be in Nigeria.

The NSA who was represented by the Director External Affairs ONSA Ambassador Ibrahim Babani said the workshop aims to address an issue of immense importance to Nigeria’s national security.

Ribadu said the president’s assent to the bill was a major milestone in the government’s commitment to curbing the proliferation of illegal arms.

He said the legislative backing has strengthened the centre’s mandate and paves the way for more coordinated and decisive action.

Ribadu also emphasises the need for gender mainstreaming in preventing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country.

He commended the National Coordinator and the entire team at the NCCSALW for their dedication in organizing the workshop, stressing that their tireless efforts towards addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria were “invaluable”

He said that the workshop was anchored in key international frameworks, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.

According to him, the resolution emphasises the critical need to protect women from the impacts of conflict while also ensuring their full participation in peacebuilding and security initiatives.

Read Also: Ribadu sues Edo PDP chairman Aziegbem, demands N10b damages

He said: “Moreover, the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons underscores the collective responsibility of our region in cutting the spread of these dangerous weapons, which disproportionately affect women and children in conflict zones.

“The importance of gender mainstreaming in preventing the proliferation of SALW cannot be overstated as it strengthens our strategies, and ensures that our approach to security is inclusive and sustainable.”

Ribadu commended the centre for its efforts towards addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.

 In his opening remarks, the National Coordinator of NCCSALW, DIG Johnson Kokumo (Rtd), said the centre has in recent times, made some significant achievements in the fight against the illegal proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

Kokumo said the centre had on July 1, retrieved a substantial cache of illegal arms from the Nigeria Customs Service and subsequent arrest of 10 suspects involved in the illicit importation.

He said the suspects were currently being prosecuted by the NCCSALW for illegal importation into Nigeria, prohibited 544 Firearms and 112,500 rounds of cartridges contrary to Section 3 (6) of Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 among other offences.

 This, according to him, underscores the centre’s commitment to not only intercepting arms but also ensuring that those responsible for these acts face the full weight of the law.

Kokumo said: “In addition to the above, the National Centre has retrieved a total of quantity 3,383 decommissioned, unserviceable, obsolete and illicit small arms and light weapons and 26,749 various calibres of ammunition from the arms bearing agencies of government.

“Later in this quarter, NCCSALW would be conducting an Arms Destruction Exercise which is a critical step in ensuring that recovered arms are permanently removed from circulation.”

Kokumo said the control of small arms and light weapons proliferation was not only a national concern but also a matter of international importance.

He said that the illegal flow of small arms and light weapons had devastating consequences, fuelling violence, instability and insecurity in various parts of the world.

He said gender mainstreaming in SALW control was not only a moral imperative but also a strategic move, considering the grave impact of armed conflict on women and children.

Kokumo said this highlighted the need for a gender-sensitive approach to disarmament and security policies.

“This workshop is a significant step in ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into national and regional strategies for Small Arms and Light Weapons control,” he said.

• Don’t take our commitment for weakness, Ribadu cautions fifth columnists

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has warned those planning to undermine the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states to bury their plan or regret their action.

The NSA spoke at the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Represented by the Director of Internal Security in his office, Hassan Yahaya Abdullahi, he said: “The governorship election in Edo State is about a month away and campaigns have begun in earnest, albeit with pockets of inter- and intra-party squabbles.

“Accordingly, given the violent antecedents of some politicians and their supporters in the state, the NSA, who doubles as the Co-Chair of ICCES, has warned that any attempt to undermine, interfere with, or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the polls would be viewed as an assault on the very essence of our democratic values.

“We want to reassure you that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful election is unwavering. Those planning to disrupt the elections should not mistake the current administration’s commitment to peace for weakness.

Read Also: Vandals of Renewed Hope: Ruling class, journalists as saboteurs

“We will defend the integrity of the polls, using every lawful means at our disposal, and anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections will face the full force of the law. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert and ready to swiftly and decisively deal with anyone trying to undermine the polls.

“To the voters in Edo State, you are encouraged to vote confidently, knowing that the government is standing with you and is determined to protect your choice. Your role in promptly reporting any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities is crucial. Together, our vigilance and unity will prevent any attempts to undermine the polls.

“To our security forces and election officials, your dedication and integrity are crucial. As the guardians of our democracy, you must ensure that every ballot is protected, every voter feels safe, and the sanctity of the election is upheld.

“Let’s move forward, knowing that together we are stronger and that we will protect the peaceful conduct of the Edo State governorship election on September 21, 2024.”

Inspector General of Police (UGP) Kayode Egbetokun assured the nation that the security agencies would work round the clock to ensure a peaceful election in Edo and Ondo states.

Represented by Police Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo, the IGP said security agents were working to ensure that non-state actors did not interfere with the process of the elections in the two states.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said the period of electioneering campaigns by political parties is usually a time of concern and anxiety about security as parties canvass for votes.

He said: “For the security agencies, this is the time to be more vigilant. You should leave no stone unturned in dealing with any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections. Already, concerns have been expressed about the possibility of armed state and non-state actors disrupting the processes.

“With just 37 days to the Edo State governorship election and 93 days before voters in Ondo State go to the polls, we should continue to work together to ensure that the training of election officials, logistics for the movement of personnel and materials, polling and collation activities are not disrupted in any way.”