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At TICAD9 Conference In Japan, Tinubu Lauds Nigeria’s Armed Forces For Their Success Over Insurgency, Criminality

At TICAD9 Conference In Japan, Tinubu Lauds Nigeria’s Armed Forces For Their Success Over Insurgency, Criminality

* Says military’s current momentum is path for national development and stability 

* Japan PM promises $5.5bn support for Africa

* Seeks Africa’s support towards tackling problem of declining population 

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu has publicly hailed the Nigerian Armed Forces for their successes in the war against insurgency and criminality.

He also emphasised his administration’s commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity through strengthening the government security apparatus and ongoing economic reforms.

President Tinubu made the remarks Wednesday during his intervention at the plenary session on Peace and Stability at the 9th meeting of the Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9) holding in Yokohama, Japan.

He reaffirmed that inclusivity, diversity and the rule of law remain Nigeria’s greatest strengths. 

The president described the current momentum in the Nigerian Armed Forces as a springboard for national development and stability.

“Nigeria’s brave armed forces can win any number of battles, but we do justice to their heroism only when we, as government, are courageous in tackling not just terror, but also the underlying causes,” the president said.

President Tinubu, who spoke after the opening ceremony of the three-day conference, emphasised the ongoing investments in infrastructure, institutional reforms and collaboration with civil society and international partners to improve the living standards of all Nigerians. 

He stressed the essence of peace and stability to meaningful development, lamenting that conflicts are still ongoing in many African countries despite some progress.

He, however, highlighted recent peace pacts brokered in the Congo as evidence that a new model of mediation and economic considerations can yield success.

According to him, “We should be under no illusions about the scale of our task. But neither should we underestimate the successes we have had. In the past, competition for resources has weakened states and triggered conflict. Now, we see mediators directly linking outcomes to investment in Congo. It is working and underlines the need for fresh thinking in everything we do to deliver peace and stability.

“Nigeria understands this process well. We believe inclusivity and diversity under the rule of law are our strengths. We have argued for this vision, and we have fought for it. We are still fighting for it today. We have learned that our brave armed forces can win many battles. But we can do justice to their heroism and sacrifice only when we, as governments, display the courage to be tough, not only on terror, but on the causes of terror.”

President Tinubu appealed for market-driven cooperation and partnerships across nations rather than the hackneyed appeals for aid and handouts.

The president seized the opportunity to call on the Japanese government to support the campaign for reforms in the United Nations’ organs, especially the United Nations Security Council, to give African countries a greater voice.

He said: “It is the view of Nigeria that Africa’s quest for fair and equitable representation in the UN Security Council is a just and fair demand. Indeed, Africa deserves two seats in the Permanent Category, with all its prerogatives and privileges, including the Right of Veto. Africa also deserves additional seats in the non–permanent seat category of the Security Council, as encapsulated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.”

Addressing the role of information and technology, President Tinubu called for international cooperation to ensure technology becomes a tool for peace and trust, not division and alienation.

Earlier, the Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had emphasised the importance of mutual understanding, local solutions and collaborative efforts for Africa’s development. 

The Prime Minister outlined Japan’s focus on private sector-led sustainable growth, youth and women empowerment and regional integration.

Ishiba announced a collaborative economic framework between Japan and the African Development Bank (AfDB) that will see a maximum of $5.5 billion disbursed to Africa, utilising Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) private sector investment finance as a catalyst.

The prime minister emphasised that locally rooted solutions are essential for Africa’s development.

His words: “Japan is providing various cooperation and support for Africa. But first of all, Japan needs to know more about Africa. So, in creating solutions together, this co-creation at the TICAD 9, we focus on three important areas: private sector-led sustainable growth, youth and women, and regional integration and connectivity within and beyond Africa.”

He appealed to African countries to assist Japan as it grapples with the challenges of a declining population and shrinking agricultural land.

According to him, “In 75 years from now, the population of Japan would have been halved. In the local communities, the population continues to decline; this is one big challenge Japan is facing. All agricultural land is being reduced, another major challenge for Japan.”

Ishiba underscored the positives of Africa’s youthful population saying: “There is another potential in Africa; there is so much growing young population in Africa, but for the power of young people in Africa to flourish, you need to create a manufacturing industry and create employment, and that, I believe, is very important.

“In Africa, there is a primary industry, agriculture, forestry, and industries, and then it jumped over to the tertiary sectors and the services industries.

“There is a jump in economic growth that Japan and other Asian countries have experienced and they have tried to move from the primary, the agriculture, fisheries, forestry to the secondary, that is a necessary process because the power of the youth could be realised fully in the manufacturing industry to improve the productivity of Africa’s manufacturing sector.”

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* Says military’s current momentum is path for national development and stability  * Japan PM promises $5.5bn support for Africa * Seeks Africa’s support towards tackling problem of declining population 
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2027: Northern CAN Urges Christians to Participate in Voter Registration

2027: Northern CAN Urges Christians to Participate in Voter Registration

John Shiklam in Kaduna

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on its members to participate actively in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) recently flagged off by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Yakubu Pam, urged Christians to use the opportunity ahead of the 2027 general election.

“As responsible citizens and followers of Christ, we have a moral and civic duty to contribute meaningfully to the future of our nation,” the statement read.

“One of the most effective ways to do this is through active participation in the democratic process, beginning with voter registration.”

The association emphasised the importance of voter registration as the first step towards securing a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), which it described as “the gateway to participating in elections and having a say in who leads our country at all levels”.

The association urged every Christian of voting age, especially those who have not previously registered or who have relocated since the last elections, to turn out en masse and update their records with INEC.

Pam noted that: “Democracy thrives when the voices of the people are heard. As a community of faith, we must not sit on the sidelines.

“It is imperative that Christians rise to the occasion and engage fully in the electoral process. By registering, voting and encouraging others to do the same, we can help ensure that leaders who reflect our values of integrity, justice, equity and godliness are elected into positions of authority.”

According to Pam, good governance does not happen by chance and called on churches, Christian organisations and community leaders to mobilise their members.

“Our silence or indifference only empowers the wrong forces to take control of the destiny of our people and our nation.

“We call on churches, Christian organisations and community leaders across the north and beyond to mobilise their members and ensure that no eligible Christian is left behind in this critical exercise.

“Let us work together to educate, encourage and empower our members to register, collect their PVCs, and prepare to vote when the time comes. God bless Nigeria,” the statement said.

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John Shiklam in KadunaThe Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on its members to participate actively in the
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PSC Uncovers 176 Non-serving Officers on Promotion List, Elevates 952 ASPs to DSP Rank

PSC Uncovers 176 Non-serving Officers on Promotion List, Elevates 952 ASPs to DSP Rank

Linus Aleke in Abuja 

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has uncovered no fewer than 176 non-serving Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) on the promotion list. 

It explained that it declined the promotion of the 176 ASPs who were found to have retired from service, along with another three suspected to have died.

The commission also approved the promotion of 952 ASPs to the next rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

In a statement Wednesday, the commission urged the beneficiaries to imbibe the spirit of nationalism and respect for the laws and regulations of the service.

The Head of Press and Public Relations of the commission, Ikechukwu Ani, who signed the statement, explained that the decisions were among the key highlights of the first plenary meeting of the 6th Board of the commission, held at its corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, Wednesday.

The Chairman of the commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), while congratulating the newly promoted officers, warned that going forward, they must uphold the spirit of nationalism and comply with the laws and regulations of the PSC.

Argungu noted that the commission would no longer tolerate diversionary or unauthorised actions by serving officers, especially when there are duly established channels for airing grievances.

He assured the officers that the commission would continue to ensure that their career progression is not hindered or trampled upon.

Some of the newly promoted officers include: “Maidawa Yakubu, Edwin Thomas, Chagga Yakubu, Sabo Hassan, Omini Dickson, Bassey Alobo, Enyinnaya Ejimadu, Grace Okon, Rose Bassey, Fidelis Offorbuike, Adamu Isa Audu, and Ofem Uket.

Others are Elvina Ochia Chukwu (FCID Special Fraud Unit, Ikoyi, Lagos); Kyrian Igwe (Enugu State Command); Ndidiamaka Onwude (O/C JWC, B Division, Kpirikpri, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Command); Rosemary Obianuju Egbo (Area Command, Warri, Delta State); Tabitha Gotan; Uya Bassey Johnson (Abia State Command); Elizabeth Ajik (NPF-NCC, FCID); Sunday Prince Ajaegbu (44 PMF, Force Headquarters, Abuja); and Deborah Danjuma (SPU Base 7, Abuja).

Olowu Yetunde Olatunde (Ogun State Command); Felix Okpaleke (32 PMF, Abakaliki); Zakka Bulus (FCT Command, Abuja); Kudirat Elegba (SPU Base 2, Lagos); Isioma Omodion (Delta State Command); Ukpabio Ayi Akiba (Rivers State Command); and Edna Emeh Bassey were also among the ASPs elevated to the new rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police.

The commission’s approval, he said, has been conveyed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for implementation in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani.

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Linus Aleke in Abuja  The Police Service Commission (PSC) has uncovered no fewer than 176 non-serving Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) on the promotion list.  It explained that it declined
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Soludo’s Wife Condemns Stripping of Female Corps Member by Vigilance Operatives

Soludo’s Wife Condemns Stripping of Female Corps Member by Vigilance Operatives

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has condemned the stripping and beating of a lady said to be a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the state.

A viral video of the incident has been flying on social media. The incident reportedly happened in Oba, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, where the operatives were said to have invaded the corpers’ Lodge in search of internet fraudsters.

The video which showed the lady being beaten up by gun wielding operatives, while her dressed was torn as she wailed begging for mercy has attracted condemnation.

Wife of the governor described it as a disturbing sight, calling for investigation to ensure that those involved were brought to book.

Mrs Soludo said: “I’ve seen a viral video of the sad incident — reported to have happened in Oba, Idemili South LGA — involving men of Agunechemba security formation and a female corps member who is serving in Anambra State. 

“There’s no justification whatsoever for such an ugly and humiliating abuse. Such demeaning approach to law and order does not in any manner reflect our celebrated identity as a hospitable and peaceful people. It does not represent the humane philosophy of our administration, either.

“There are always rules of engagement in such situations, and they must prioritise dignity, civility, and respect. I find the Oba incident very disturbing and appeal to appropriate authorities that are already looking into it to take critical measures to not only entrench justice but to, most importantly, ensure that we do not see such worrisome scene ever again.

“Anambra’s image is priceless. We must guard it jealously,” she said.

Meanwhile, police authorities in the state said the operatives involved have been arrested, but the victim has not yet been traced.

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David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has condemned the stripping and beating of a lady said to be a member of the National
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Tension, Fear as Police Raid Homes, Destroy Properties in Bayelsa

Tension, Fear as Police Raid Homes, Destroy Properties in Bayelsa

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Fear and confusion swept through Amarata, a bustling suburb community in Yenagoa the Bayelsa State capital yesterday following reports that a police officer was allegedly killed in the area, sparking a violent reprisal raid by security operatives.

Eyewitnesses said armed policemen stormed the Ompadec and Punch area of Amarata in the early hours of the morning, breaking into houses and shooting sporadically and spraying tear gas. 

Terrified residents, including women and children, reportedly fled their homes to escape the gunfire, leaving the neighbourhood deserted.

Mr. Priye Julius, a broadcaster with Radio Bayelsa, and Mr. Forsbray Inegha, a retired police officer, who confirmed the incident, said  their own homes were damaged during the raid. 

“They smashed our windows. Everybody is living in fear now because nobody knows what will happen next,” Julius said.

Some of the residents who spoke with our correspondent described the scene as horrifying and chaotic as children going to school were not spared by the rampaging policemen, stating that families had fled their houses to escape the gunfire. 

Our correspondent, who resides in one of the mini estates at Ompadec attacked by the police noted   two people identified as Osigwe Chibeueze Valentine and Micheal Edward, were forcefully taken away from the estate, adding that houses were broken into by the policemen, while  men and women were taken into custody by force.

He said: “These young men forcefully taken from my mini estate today at Ompadec Street. One is a businessman and his wife a banker with Access Bank, the boy works at the new Bayelsa park.

“A neighbour’s house window opposite my house was broken with gun butt, a POS stand was vandalised, many innocent people were arrested, houses destroyed, spread tear gas everywhere even school children were affected while residents run helter skelter for their safety.”

While residents continue to flee the scenes, community leaders who  have earlier refused to stop  the daylight robbery and cult killings in the area are now calling for restraint, urging both residents and security personnel to avoid further confrontation. They warned that any escalation could lead to widespread unrest in Yenagoa, the state capital.

The latest incident has, again, placed Amarata in the spotlight, raising urgent questions about security and governance in Yenagoa, the state capital 

Amarata has, over the years, earned a reputation as one of Yenagoa’s most volatile neighbourhoods after Swali, another suburb of the state capital, notorious for clashes between cult groups, rival gangs, and law enforcement officers. 

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Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa Fear and confusion swept through Amarata, a bustling suburb community in Yenagoa the Bayelsa State capital yesterday following reports that a police officer was allegedly killed in
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Yoruba Elders, Statesmen Tasked  to Intervene in  Alaafin, Ooni  Feud

Yoruba Elders, Statesmen Tasked  to Intervene in  Alaafin, Ooni  Feud

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

A non-governmental organisation(NGO), the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), has called on Yoruba elders, statesmen, and cultural custodians to rise above partisan or parochial leanings and intervene decisively on the current feud between Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade and Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

A feud has come up between the two monarch  over the  installation of an Ibadan business mogul, Engineer  Dotun Sanusi as Okanlomo of Yorubaland by Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi.

A statement issued in Ilorin, Kwara state capital yesterday by the PeacePro, signed by its  Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, said that the intervention of the Yoruba elders and statesmen became imperative as the  matter goes far beyond traditional rivalry and touches the very essence of Yoruba civilisation.

According to him, “the current dispute presents a unique opportunity to reorganise and reorder Yoruba leadership by establishing a global cultural leadership model with multiple layers of function, responsibility, and authority.”

Such a model, the group maintained, would redefine the relationship between major Yoruba thrones, prevent recurring conflicts, and reposition the Yoruba nation as a global cultural powerhouse with structured leadership.

Hamzat further noted that “Ife, as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, cannot be replaced or prevented from playing its cultural leadership role, neither can Oyo’s Alaafin be relegated from its historic political leadership and heritage. 

“Both thrones, and others like them across the world, must be accorded their rightful place in Yoruba global leadership to foster growth, peace, and unity,” he said.

Hamzat described the Yoruba as a cross continental nation with significant influence across Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond.

“Such a global cultural nation must have a clear order and hierarchy to preserve unity, heritage, and identity,” he said.

He  argued that  a sovereign court in Nigeria should not be burdened by cultural issues of history and heritage it cannot adequately resolve, since the dispute concerns not merely local traditional institutions but a global cultural order with deep historical and international dimensions

‘Ife and Oyo maybe small towns in South West Nigeria under their respective local government areas, but what they represent in global culture is far bigger,” Hamzat said.

PeacePro therefore, called on Yoruba elders, statesmen, and cultural custodians to rise above partisan or parochial leanings and intervene decisively.

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Hammed Shittu in Ilorin A non-governmental organisation(NGO), the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), has called on Yoruba elders, statesmen, and cultural custodians to rise above partisan or parochial leanings and intervene
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Benue Gov Urges Journalist to Embrace Agric for Better Tomorrow

Benue Gov Urges Journalist to Embrace Agric for Better Tomorrow

George Okoh in Makurdi

The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has presented improved Tenera oil palm seedlings to journalists in the state under the Benue Alia Palm Project, even as he urged journalists to go into agriculture for their future benefits.

The governor described the initiative as a sustainable economic intervention that will create jobs, boost industrial growth, and strengthen household incomes.

He made this known during the Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, in Makurdi. Governor Alia, while speaking at the event, reiterated his administration’s commitment to laying solid foundations for Benue’s development through infrastructural renewal, access to clean water, improved electricity, modernised schools, and stronger health facilities. 

He emphasised that sustainable growth requires long-term investment in agriculture.

According to him, “These seedlings are not just gifts. They are the foundations of an economy that will feed industries, create jobs for our youth, and generate wealth for our families. Every palm tree planted today is a seed of prosperity for tomorrow.”

The governor announced several interventions for the NUJ, which included the settlement of the union’s outstanding N12 million dues to its national body, renovation of the NUJ House in Makurdi, with provision of a utility bus to ease the union’s mobility challenges, and also the consideration of weigh-in allowances for journalists in government-owned media organisations.

He further urged journalists to uphold truth and objectivity in their reportage, stressing that while constructive criticism is welcome, it should always point to solutions.

Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming his administration’s vision of transforming Benue from the “food basket of the nation” into the “industrial basket of Nigeria,” assuring  the journalists  that his government remains open to partnership with the media in shaping the state’s success story.

In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, expressed gratitude to the governor for empowering journalists with palm seedlings, describing the initiative as a bold step in wealth creation, food security, and agricultural diversification.

Ugber also applauded the administration’s infrastructural renewal, digital governance reforms, and efforts to restore security and dignity to displaced persons.

He, however, appealed for further support in renovating the NUJ House, provision of official vehicles, and approval of weigh-in allowances.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Agweye Agbenu, lauded the project as a sustainable path to economic independence, noting that the planned planting of six million hybrid palm trees will, in the near future, position Benue as a leading hub for palm oil production.

“This project has the potential to reduce dependence on federal allocations and lift thousands out of poverty. In years to come, other states will come to Benue to learn from this model,” Agbenu stated.

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George Okoh in Makurdi The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has presented improved Tenera oil palm seedlings to journalists in the state under the Benue Alia Palm Project, even as
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