Hot SOURCE News

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
14 views

NHRC: Swift Trials of Arrested Leaders of Ansaru Sect Must Start

• NUJ, IOM hail security forces, applaud FG for operation expansion to N’west, N’Central

•DSS tells court Owo Catholic church attackers had links with foreign terrorist groups

•Refutes claim alleged human rights violation suit triggered defendants’ arraignment

•Court okays shielding of prosecution witnesses’ identity

•Bandits kill 13 worshipers during morning prayers in Katsina

Michael Olugbode, Linus Aleke in Abuja, James Sowolein Abeokuta and Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the federal government to swiftly put every machinery in place to ensure swift trial of the arrested leaders of the notorious terrorist group, Ansaru, ensuring that they were held to the highest form of accountability befitting their heinous crimes.

The call was made yesterday by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, at the presentation of July 2025 Human Rights Dashboard in Abuja.

This was as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended the government and its security forces for the recent successful operation that led to the capture of two high-ranking members of the Ansaru terror group.

In the same vein, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has also applauded the government for its leadership role in implementing Operation Safe Corridor, a model for the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant ex-Boko Haram fighters, especially the expansion of the programme beyond the North-East to the North-West and North-Central regions.

Nevertheless, the Department of State Services (DSS), has cautioned a Federal High Court in Abuja against granting bail to the five men being prosecuted over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, in view of their alleged link with foreign terrorist groups.

The DSS also refutes claim that alleged human rights violation suit triggered defendants’ arraignment, just as the court has okayed the shielding of prosecution witnesses’ identity against likely harm.

Meanwhile, despite successes recorded by the nation’s security agencies, no fewer than 13 people have been killed during morning prayers in Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The National Security Adviser, MalamNuhuRibadu had at a press briefing, weekend, disclosed that two terrorists, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a/Abbas/Mukhtar) and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka MallamMamuda), both leaders of Ansaru sect and on the wanted list of Nigeria, the US, UK and UN were captured in an operation conducted between May and July 2025.

However, Ojukwu, while lamenting the increase in killings of security personnel and auxiliary members of vigilante group, said there was urgent need to ensure that all needed apparatus were put in place to tackle insecurity, particularly terrorism in the country.

Ojukwu said: “From our observatory, we are gravely concerned by the resurgence and escalation of deadly violence in different parts of the country.

“In Sokoto, 15 men were killed in a reprisal attack by suspected members of Lakurawa. In Kebbi, a similarly tragic pattern emerged, with three police officers losing their lives in a failed abduction attempt.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the month of July represents the deadliest for vigilante groups in the country with a fatality of almost a hundred deaths. The role of vigilante in supporting our security and armed forces in the field of battle should not be lost on us.

“Their decimation portends danger for our collective security and the enjoyment of our liberties. These are not isolated incidents; they represent a failure of security, justice and accountability.

“We are seeing an increase in targeted killings of law enforcement agents; frequent kidnappings and killings by bandits; brazen acts of violence by cultist groups and widespread violations of the right to life, particularly in communities already vulnerable due to conflict and poverty.

“It is in this regard, that the National Human Rights Commission welcomes the arrests of the leaders of Ansaru, a deadly terrorist organisation which is responsible for gross human rights violations of Nigerians.

“We commend the Department of State Services, the Armed Forces and the Office of the National Security Adviser for this feat. There is much we can achieve in safeguarding our citizens and human rights if agencies collaborate and adopt human rights-based approaches.

“We call on the authorities to swiftly put every machinery in place to ensure swift trials of the terrorist leaders and ensure that they are held to the highest form of accountability befitting their heinous crimes.

“As we salute the courage and gallantry of our intelligence and armed forces, we call on other sectors of our security and law enforcement to rise up to the responsibility of safeguarding the human rights of Nigerians currently facing attacks in Benue, Plateau, Niger, Zamfara, Sokoto and Borno states all of whom, based on our dashboard for July are facing dire security situations.”

Ojukwu, therefore, asked security agencies to reaffirm their commitment to professionalism and human rights in their operations; government actors to address the root causes of these violations – poverty, impunity, and weak institutional responses.

He equally asked civil society and the media to continue raising awareness and putting pressure where needed; and all citizens, he called, to speak out and stand firm against violence, injustice, and indifference.

He disclosed that in the month of July, a total of 331,035 complaints were received by the commission across the nation.

“The most prevalent issues this month relate to law enforcement and human dignity, freedom from discrimination, and economic, social, and cultural rights. These are not new issues, but their persistence underscores systemic problems we cannot normalize.

“When dignity is undermined by those tasked with upholding the law, the social contract begins to erode. When people are denied equal treatment or suffer indignities due to who they are, we all suffer a loss in our collective humanity,” he said.

NUJ: Success is Evidence of Security’s Professionalism

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has commended the Nigerian government and its security forces for the recent successful operation that led to the capture of two high-ranking members of the Ansaru terror group, linking the success to security’s professionalism.

The arrest of Mahmud Muhammad Usman (alias Abu Bara’a) and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri (alias MalamMamuda), as announced by the National Security Adviser, MalamNuhuRibadu, the NUJ said was a significant victory in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

NUJ’s commendation was contained in a statement by its President, AlhassanYahyaAbdullahi.

It states that Ansaru, a dangerous splinter faction, had been responsible for many of the country’s most brutal attacks over the past decade.

“This breakthrough, which was the result of sustained intelligence efforts, shows the bravery and professionalism of our security agencies.

“The digital evidence recovered from this operation is a valuable resource for dismantling terror networks and preventing future attacks. It also reflects a more advanced security strategy that prioritizes precision, intelligence, and long-term national security.

“The NUJ salutes the men and women who risk their lives daily to keep our country safe. “We urge the government to continue supporting our security institutions and ensure that justice is served quickly and transparently.

“Terrorism threatens our peace, development, and democratic values. As journalists and defenders of the public interest, the NUJ stands in solidarity with all efforts to restore lasting peace and security in Nigeria.

“We encourage all Nigerians to remain vigilant, support security efforts, and resist narratives that seek to divide us. Together, we will overcome.”

IOM Hails FG for Expanding Operation Safe Corridor to N’West and N’Central

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has applauded the federal government for its leadership role in implementing Operation Safe Corridor, a model for the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant ex-Boko Haram fighters, especially the expansion of the programme beyond the North-East to the North-West and North-Central regions.

Deputy Director of General Operations of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), MrsOgechi Daniel, gave this applause when she paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

A statement by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General TukurGusau, said the visit provided an opportunity for both parties to deepen discussions on strengthening cooperation in peacebuilding, migration management, and countering violent extremism across Nigeria.

She affirmed IOM’s readiness to deploy experts on Disarmament, Demobilisation, Reintegration, and Reconciliation (DDRR) in new areas such as Zamfara State.

The IOM Deputy Director-General also highlighted the importance of improving data for disaster risk reduction and working in a coordinated manner with national stakeholders.

She noted that IOM provides technical support in border management and early warning systems and maintains a field presence in all member states of the Lake Chad Basin Commission.

She further disclosed that IOM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UK Development Office to commence Phase 4 of rehabilitation and community-based reintegration.

While appreciating the federal government for creating the space for IOM to operate in Nigeria, Mrs Daniel reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to supporting safe returns and local integration of internally displaced persons with a focus on development.

She stressed that joint research collaboration would be critical in ensuring the sustainability of peace and reintegration approaches across Nigeria.

In his response, the CDS welcomed her to the Defence Headquarters and acknowledged IOM’s long-standing partnership, particularly in the North-East.

He emphasised the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with IOM and other stakeholders in advancing peace and stability despite the challenges of limited funding.

“We support everybody that makes our work easier,” General Musa noted.

He said the visit underscored the shared commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and IOM to deepen collaboration in addressing insecurity, displacement, and migration challenges while promoting sustainable peace and development.

Owo Catholic Church Attackers Had Links With Foreign Terrorist, DSS Tells Court

The Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned a Federal High Court in Abuja against granting bail to the five men being prosecuted over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, in view of their alleged link with foreign terrorist groups.

The DSS, in a counter-affidavit to the defendants’ bail application, also raised concern about their capacity to interfere with prosecution’s witnesses if granted bail in view their alleged antecedent and propensity for violence.

The five were IdrisAbdulmalikOmeiza (25 years), Al QasimIdris 20 years), JamiuAbdulmalik (26 years), AbdulhaleemIdris (25 years) and MomohOtuhoAbubakar (47 years).

They were arraigned on August 11 on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025 filed by the DSS).

In the counter-affidavit, the DSS stated that the offences for which the defendants were standing trial were very serious, with capital punishment if convicted.

It added that the defendants were standing trial for acts of terrorism, which led to the death of about 40 persons and caused grievous injury to over 100 worshipers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State on 5th June, 2022.

“There is very high likelihood of defendants evading trial in view of their connection to foreign fighters linked to Al-Shabab terrorist group.

“The defendants’ accomplices are still at large and have been making frantic efforts to monitor their trial, intimidate witnesses and free the defendants from lawful custody,” it stated.

The DSS disclosed that it was “currently investigating the leads with a view to apprehending those individuals, planning to intimidate witnesses and compromise the trial in the interest of the applicants.

“The prosecution witnesses have expressed fears of attacks by defendants’ cohorts and have stated that they will not attend court sessions except their fears were allayed.

“This necessitated the filing of an ex-parte application for witness protection.

“The prosecution has demonstrated readiness for speedy trial of the substantive charge. That defendants have not presented any evidence to show that they have credible sureties.

“It will not be in the interest of justice and security of prosecution witnesses to grant the application for bail,” the DSS said.

Defence lawyer, Abdullahi Mohammad had, while moving the bail application on Tuesday, noted that his client’s had been in custody since they were arrested in 2022.

Mohammad said his clients were ready to present credible and reliable sureties to demonstrate their willingness to stand trial.

Prosecuting lawyer, Dr. CalistusEze, urged the court to reject the bail application for being unmeritorious.

Eze stated that there were ongoing threats to would be witnesses of the prosecution, which the defence lawyer was aware of.

After taking arguments from both lawyers, Justice EmekaNwite adjourned till September 10 for ruling on the bail application.

Earlier at the commencement of proceedings, Eze told the court that although the case was scheduled for Tuesday for the prosecution to open its case, it would not be able to proceed because the DSS has handed the case to a senior lawyer, AyodejiAdedipe, SAN to lead the prosecuting team.

Eze prayed the court for an adjournment to a later date before which the DSS would have processed the necessary fiat from the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to enable Adedipe to fully take over the handling of the case.

Mohammad did not object to Eze’s request for an adjournment. He also did not object to another application by Eze, seeking the protection of the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution’s witnesses.

In the application, the prosecution prayed the court to issue an order to protect the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution witnesses and an order allowing the prosecution witnesses to testify while hooded and veiled off from the view of all other individuals except the counsel on both sides.

The prosecution also urged the court to issue an order to prevent the mentioning of the real names of prosecution’s witnesses in its orders, judgments or records which are accessible to the public, and an order allowing witnesses should be identified with a combination of some alphabets.

In a brief ruling, Justice Nwite granted the application.

While exiting the court, Mohammed told journalists that although he has not had the opportunity to see his clients in custody, he was told by them that they were well attended to.

Bandits Kill 13 Worshipers During Morning Prayers in Katsina

No fewer than 13 people have been killed during morning prayers in Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. NasirMu’azu, confirmed the death of the worshipers in a statement yesterday.

Mu’azu, who did not mention the date of the incident, said it occurred when the criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community.

“The Katsina State Government today announced immediate security reinforcements and support measures following a tragic incident in the UnguwanMantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area, where 13 residents lost their lives during morning prayers.

“The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal element started shooting sporadically in the mosque.

“The attack was in retaliation for the community’s successful defence efforts two days earlier. The people of UnguwanMantau decided to lay an ambush against the bandits and killed many of them.

“They rescued victims taken from RuwanSanyi village, seized 3 motorcycles, and 2 AK 47. The security agencies are now on the ground in UnguwanMuntau to restore normalcy.”

He, however, said the air component commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and Nigerian Police Force had been deployed to “clear those bandits because during the rainy season, bandits hide under the crops to perpetrate their evil acts.”

While reiterating the state government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating criminal elements from the state, Mu’azu said “We are working towards bringing the bandits to book.

“As Government, we salute the gallantry disposition of the people ofunguwarMantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits and ensuring safety across our communities.

“The State Government extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the region.”

The post NHRC: Swift Trials of Arrested Leaders of Ansaru Sect Must Start appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

• NUJ, IOM hail security forces, applaud FG for operation expansion to N’west, N’Central •DSS tells court Owo Catholic church attackers had links with foreign terrorist groups •Refutes claim alleged
The post NHRC: Swift Trials of Arrested Leaders of Ansaru Sect Must Start appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
17 views

Court Freezes Bank Accounts Linked to Ex-NNPCL GMD, Kyari, over Suspicious Transactions

Alex Enumahin Abuja

Justice EmekaNwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, ordered a temporary freezing of four bank accounts of the immediate past Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), MrMeleKyari.

The freezing of the four accounts in Jaiz Bank, was sequel to ongoing fraud investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The order to freeze the said accounts was issued in a ruling on an exparte application argued by the lawyer, who represented the anti-graft agency, OgechiUjam.

The ex-parte application marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1641, though dated August 8, was filed August 11, and specifically sought for the court’s order freezing the bank accounts listed in the schedule.

The applicant persuaded the court to order the temporary freezing of the said accounts, so that the commission would be able to conclude its findings, as investigation was still ongoing.

It was the claim by the EFCC that the four bank accounts belonged to Kyari, “who is currently being investigated in a case involving conspiracy, abuse of office and money laundering, pending the conclusion of the investigation.”

In a short ruling, Justice Nwite held that there was enough reason as shown by the applicant to warrant granting the motion.

“I have listened to counsel to the applicant and gone through the affidavit evidence with the exhibits and written address attached. I found that this application is meritorious and it is hereby granted as prayed,” he said.

He subsequently adjourned till September 23, to enable the EFCC conclude and report back to the court.

The affected accounts were Jaiz Bank account number 0017922724 with account name: MeleKyari; Jaiz Bank account number 0018575055 with account name: Guwori Community Development Foundation; and Jaiz Bank account number 0018575141 with account name: Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief.

The anti-graft agency said the application was brought on three grounds, arguing that the bank accounts under investigation were linked to misappropriation of funds and criminal breach of trust.

It added that preliminary investigation revealed that the accounts were linked to Kyari, who allegedly took advantage of the complainant as a contract facilitator and laundered proceeds of unlawful activities.

“That there is need to preserve the funds in the identified bank accounts pending the conclusion of investigation and possible prosecution,” the EFCC stated.

In an affidavit attached to the motion, Amin Abdullahi, an EFCC investigator attached to the Special Investigation (SIS) Unit, said the agency received a petition dated April 24 from the Guardian of Democracy and Rule of Law against Kyari.

He said he was part of the team assigned to investigate the matter.

“That upon receipt of the petition referred to in Paragraph 4 above, my team carried out several investigation activities which included seeking and obtaining bank records from commercial banks,” he said.

Abdullahi said the probe also involved obtaining corporate details from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) concerning bodies linked to the case, as well as inviting and interviewing individuals and company representatives.

The investigator revealed that about N661,464,601.50 suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities were traced to four different accounts.

He added that the funds were traced to Kyari, who allegedly opened multiple accounts in Jaiz Bank used to receive suspicious inflows from the NNPC and various oil companies.

According to him, records further revealed that the accounts were controlled by Kyari through family members acting as fronts.

The post Court Freezes Bank Accounts Linked to Ex-NNPCL GMD, Kyari, over Suspicious Transactions appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Alex Enumahin Abuja Justice EmekaNwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, ordered a temporary freezing of four bank accounts of the immediate past Group Managing Director (GMD) of
The post Court Freezes Bank Accounts Linked to Ex-NNPCL GMD, Kyari, over Suspicious Transactions appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
15 views

Governors Launch Platform to Attract FDIs, Say $2bn Yearly Inflow Less Than 0.5% of GDP

•US govt lists areas of key investment attention in Nigeria

•Abdulrazaq puts annual infrastructure financing gap at $100bn

ChuksOkocha in Abuja

State governors in the country yesterday floated an investment platform to enable the 36 states attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs). They said “NGF Investopedia” was launched because the $2 billion yearly foreign investment inflow was less than 0.5 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The investment initiative came as Councillor for Economic Affairs, United States Embassy in Nigeria, Christine Harbaugh, pledged the American government’s support for projects that showcased investment opportunities in various Nigerian states.

Director-General of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulateefShittu, said the infrastructure financing gap in the country was estimated at $100 billion annually, and nearly $1 trillion over the next decade.

The 36 states collectively budgeted more than N17.5 trillion for capital projects in 2025, reflecting their commitment to transform infrastructure and social services. Yet, financing constraints and fragmented entry points often prevented investors from engaging in large scale investments in the states.

Chairman of NGF, AbdurahmanAbdulrazaq, who was represented by the governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. SuleAbdullahi, said Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, was endowed with abundant human and natural resources.

“Yet, over the last decade, our FDI inflows have averaged only $2 billion annually, which is less than 0.5 percent of GDP,” Abdulrazaq stated.

He said, “These investments are mostly concentrated in oil and gas, telecommunications, real estate, and agriculture. While important, they have not reached the depth or breadth required to catalyse true subnational transformation.

“At the same time, African Direct Investment (ADI) into Nigeria has been steadily growing, with regional investors from South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Ghana expanding into sectors, such as banking, fintech, agribusiness, and infrastructure.

“This intra-African capital is particularly important under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as it signals a growing confidence among African partners in Nigeria’s markets and opportunities.”

The NGF chairman stated, “Yet despite these inflows, the annual infrastructure financing gap for Nigeria is estimated at $100 billion — a gap that states bear the heaviest responsibility to bridge. Public budgets alone cannot solve this.

“To unlock prosperity, we must mobilise both global and African capital to finance projects that create jobs, modernise infrastructure, and drive inclusive growth.

“This is the purpose of the NGF Investopedia: to serve as a one-stop shop for investors, providing credible, transparent, and curated pipelines of projects across all 36 states.

“It is not just a catalogue — it is an entry point, showing investors not only where to invest, but also how to invest in Nigeria with confidence.

‘’This vision would not be possible without the partnership of our sponsors and allies.”

Abdulrazaq added, “Afreximbank, which will deploy innovative financial instruments to move state projects from pipeline to bankability and financial closure.

“UNDP, which will support our states in building the institutional capacity needed to sustain credible investment pipelines. MOFI will pool post-launch resources to reinforce investor confidence and unlock blended finance opportunities.

“Together, these partnerships ensure that the Investopedia is not just a publication, but a living platform that will drive investment into our states in the years ahead.”

Abdulrazaq said the vision of the investment initiative was, “To position Nigeria’s states as credible, competitive destinations for capital and to unlock prosperity for millions of our people.”

He added, “When an investor builds a road, funds an agro-processing facility, finances renewable energy, or supports ICT infrastructure, the benefits extend beyond financial returns — they create jobs, improve livelihoods, and drive sustainable development.”

He commended Cavista Holdings, which partnered the governors in developing the NGF Fund roadmap.

Abdulrazaq stated, “The NGF Fund will complement Investopedia as a pooled investment vehicle — a financing arm to channel catalytic capital into vetted subnational projects.

“Anchored on NGF’s governance and fiduciary credibility, and supported by MOFI, NSIA, CBN, Afreximbank and other DFIs, the NGF Fund will ensure that opportunities highlighted in the Investopedia translate into real investments on the ground.

“To our distinguished investors, both here in Nigeria, across Africa, and globally, I extend this invitation: Partner with Nigeria’s states. The opportunities are vast, the commitment is firm, and the time is now.

“With the NGF Investopedia, backed by strong partnerships and the NGF Fund, we are sending a clear signal: Nigeria’s sub-nationals are open, credible, and investment-ready. Together, we can bridge the infrastructure gap and unlock a new era of prosperity for our people.”

The NGF director-general, Shittu, described Nigeria as a land of opportunity.

He expressed gratitude to Afreximbank, UNDP, and MOFI, saying, their “partnership ensures that the Investopedia is not only launched but sustained”.

Shittu said, “Your contributions give this platform both strategic weight and technical depth.

“This initiative is a collective achievement. Our state investment agencies, NGF secretariat technical teams and partners have worked tirelessly to provide data, shape the pipeline, and ensure readiness.

“Their contributions underpin this publication and demonstrate that Nigeria’s States are now open for business.”

He listed three things that the investment platform would bring to the sub-nationals to include, “simplify investor access by consolidating credible projects into one gateway; provide confidence through due diligence and transparent presentation of opportunities, and mobilise partnerships that go beyond financing to include technical support, capacity-building, and risk mitigation.

“This is why today matters: we are no longer just discussing potential, but presenting bankable pathways for global, African, and domestic capital to flow into our states.

“The prosperity that will follow — in jobs, infrastructure, and inclusive growth — will stand as a legacy for this generation of governors and leaders. To the CEOs, MDs, and industry leaders present here today: your presence signals confidence—and it emboldens our states. Together, we can transform Nigeria’s investment landscape.

“Nigeria’s states are now open for business. The opportunity is real; the readiness is present. Let us now engage, partner, and deliver.”

Harbaugh said the United States would support Nigeria in the areas of agriculture and digital economy, trade and business environment, transparency and accountability, as well as the health sector.

The post Governors Launch Platform to Attract FDIs, Say $2bn Yearly Inflow Less Than 0.5% of GDP appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

•US govt lists areas of key investment attention in Nigeria •Abdulrazaq puts annual infrastructure financing gap at $100bn ChuksOkocha in Abuja State governors in the country yesterday floated an investment
The post Governors Launch Platform to Attract FDIs, Say $2bn Yearly Inflow Less Than 0.5% of GDP appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
14 views

Akinwumi Adesina: Africa Must Plug $580bn Leak to Reduce $2tn Debt

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), DrAkinwumiAdesina, has called on African governments to end corruption and illicit capital flows that cost the continent more than $580 billion annually.

Adesina, in an interview with Bloomberg in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, maintained that if African leaders are to deal with a debt pile that’s approaching $2 trillion, it must begin to take visible action to end sleaze.

While nations also need access to more concessional financing — and debt-restructuring where necessary — curbing outflows is crucial, Adesina, the lender’s president said.

Illicit financial flows and rising debt have become two of the most pressing challenges facing African economies today. Every year, the continent loses money through illegal channels such as tax evasion, trade misinvoicing, corruption, smuggling, and money laundering.

These outflows drain resources that could otherwise fund infrastructure, education, health, and job creation. According to international estimates, Africa loses more through illicit financial flows than it receives in aid and foreign direct investment combined.

At the same time, Africa’s debt burden has risen to worrisome levels as many countries continue to spend a growing portion of their revenues servicing external loans, leaving little fiscal space for social investment.

“It doesn’t matter how much water you pour into a bucket if the bucket is leaking,” he said during the interview. “If you’re able to reduce the leakages to illicit capital, also corruption and all of these things, Africa will be able to keep a lot of these resources and meet the amount of infrastructure it needs,” Adesina added.

The AfDB estimated in May that Africa loses about $1.6 billion daily to what it termed “financial leakages.” That figure includes the loss of $90 billion a year to illicit financial flows, with $275 billion “siphoned away” by multinational corporations shifting profits, and $148 billion going astray because of corruption.

The continent faces an annual infrastructure backlog of as much as $170 billion — which will be critical to address for economic development and job creation, the Bloomberg report said.

Yet many governments are grappling with the rising cost of servicing loans, which is at the highest level since the last debt crisis in the early 2000s, according to a working paper by the Boston University Global Development Policy Center and the Institute for Economic Justice.

More than half of African governments spend more on interest payments than public health, the working paper found.

The post Akinwumi Adesina: Africa Must Plug $580bn Leak to Reduce $2tn Debt appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), DrAkinwumiAdesina, has called on African governments to end corruption and illicit capital flows that cost the continent more than
The post Akinwumi Adesina: Africa Must Plug $580bn Leak to Reduce $2tn Debt appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
12 views

Again, Edun, Cardoso Meet on Deepening Coordination between Fiscal, Monetary Policies

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

About two months after their last meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun yesterday met with the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Wale Edun on how to deepen coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities with a view to sustaining macroeconomic stability, strengthen investor confidence, and unlock private sector growth.

Both of them had met on the subject-matter on June 17, 2025 when the minister visited the CBN Governor at the apex bank’s headquarters in Abuja.

Like the previous meeting, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. ZacchAdedeji was also in attendance at yesterday’s meeting, according to a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga.

Edun reportedly reaffirmed at the meeting that close alignment between fiscal and monetary policy was critical to consolidating President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, ensuring inflation is contained, revenues are mobilised efficiently, and credit flows effectively to productive sectors.

The statement read: “In a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s economic fundamentals, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, today, held a strategic meeting with the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, at the CBN Headquarters in Abuja.

“The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. ZacchAdedeji was also in attendance.

“The high-level engagement focused on deepening coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities to sustain macroeconomic stability, strengthen investor confidence, and unlock private sector growth.

“The Honourable Minister reaffirmed that close alignment between fiscal and monetary policy is critical to consolidating President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, ensuring inflation is contained, revenues are mobilised efficiently, and credit flows effectively to productive sectors.

“As the Nigerian economy continues to navigate complex global and domestic challenges, this meeting sends a strong signal of the government’s determination to work towards a more stable and prosperous economic future for all Nigerians.

“With coordinated policy efforts and a shared vision for economic growth, Nigeria is poised to unlock new opportunities for development and prosperity,” the statement concluded.

The post Again, Edun, Cardoso Meet on Deepening Coordination between Fiscal, Monetary Policies appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja About two months after their last meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun yesterday met with the Governor of
The post Again, Edun, Cardoso Meet on Deepening Coordination between Fiscal, Monetary Policies appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
12 views

Abia Benefits from $750m World Bank Renewable Energy Programme, Collaborates with ISA to Develop Mini-grids

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogoin Umuahia

The Abia State Government has intensified its search for alternative sources of energy to enhance power supply in the state and minimise reliance of residents on the national grid for their electricity needs.

To this end, the State Commissioner for Information, Prince OkeyKanu, said the Abia government has elected to participate in the Distributed Access to Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) programme.

He said that the $750 million World Bank intervention and renewable energy development programme “will in no small way boost the electricity sector of the state”.

Kanu, who spoke with journalists after the meeting of the State Executive Council, said that Abia was collaborating with the International Solar Alliance(ISA) to develop regulations for the operation of the mini-grid system for electricity power distribution in the state.

He stated that Abia was desirous of playing big in the power sector by making huge investments as well as getting the private sector investors to capital into power sector.

According to him, the collaboration with ISA would enable Abia government to achieve its agenda of building a robust power sector adding that it would .

He said: “This collaboration will enable ISA to support the state government through the use of power and public utilities to establish a thriving environment that will attract investments and sustain solar power projects in the state, thereby driving growth and mitigating climate change”.

ISA is a treaty-based international organization formed in 2015 by India and France and presently has 123 member countries. It aims to promote solar energy and reduce the cost of solar power generation through a dedicated platform for cooperation among solar resource rich countries and the wider global community.

Kanu said that Abia has already prepared a fertile ground for a thriving power sector following the enactment of the State Electricity Law 2025, which effectively domesticated power generation and distribution under state government control.

He stressed that the state government was ready “to exploit to the fullest, the whole gamut of the state’s electricity value chain in order to drive industrial growth in the state”.

The Information Commissioner also stated that the decision of government to use direct labour in execution of road projects was yielding the desired results as more and more roads were being rehabilitated.

He said that the State Ministry of Works has undertaken no fewer than 54 road projects that have either been completed or ongoing across the state.

Kanu noted that through direct labour, government has been able to save huge amounts of money that would be channeled to other sectors for the holistic development of Abia.

The post Abia Benefits from $750m World Bank Renewable Energy Programme, Collaborates with ISA to Develop Mini-grids appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogoin Umuahia The Abia State Government has intensified its search for alternative sources of energy to enhance power supply in the state and minimise reliance of residents on the
The post Abia Benefits from $750m World Bank Renewable Energy Programme, Collaborates with ISA to Develop Mini-grids appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
10 views

Wike Backs August 30 Rivers Local Government Elections

•Defends Tinubu, says president approachable

•Attacks Amaechi again, states his presidential bid dead on arrival

•Reveals Babachir livid with Tinubu because he wasn’t picked as VP

•Feigns ignorance of planned PDP convention

Emmanuel AddehandOlawaleAjimotokan in Abuja

In spite of mounting opposition from stakeholders against the proposed local government elections in Rivers state scheduled for August 30, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of the state, NyesomWike, yesterday said the election will go on as planned.

Speaking on a national television yesterday, Wike argued that the so-called eminent persons from the state who do not want the election to hold do not mean well for Rivers state and should be ignored.

The planned Rivers state local government election has drawn opposition from a wide range of political leaders, party factions, and civil society groups, who have all questioned its legality and fairness.

A long list of prominent Rivers stakeholders, including AtedoPeterside; former governor Celestine Omehia; former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman UcheSecondus; former Minister, AbiyeSekibo; Senator Lee Maeba; DakukuPeterside; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Tele Ikuru; FafaaPrincewill and Tonye Cole, among others, recently petitioned President Bola Tinubu, describing the exercise as unconstitutional.

Among others, they pointed to breaches in procedure, particularly the failure of the state electoral body to give the mandatory 90-day notice.

But Wike stated that there was nothing eminent about the aforementioned persons, arguing that if they were important, they will support the election which has been fixed by the Military Administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-EteIbas (rtd), who many argue lack the constitutional authority to conduct democratic polls.

“Because I have money that’s what makes me eminent? If anybody is eminent there, they should support that election. Because if you don’t, you are bringing the state backward. When you say unconstitutional, who interprets what is unconstitutional. Does it lie in their mouth to say something is unconstitutional?

“For Christ’s sake, you have the court that has been given the responsibility. Take up the challenge and go to court and say this is unconstitutional. And let the court be able to decide. How will our laws grow, it’s not by writing to the president saying it’s unconstitutional.

“What has ever happened that you have said it’s unconstitutional. Have they read the emergency powers of the president?. Did you know the supreme court said there is no government in the state?

“The supreme court sacked all the local governments and said no caretaker. That you can’t have money for all the local governments. The state government has no budget. How would you run the state government at that time if the president did not take the powers that he took.

“The state would have been something else. Now, as part of restoring democracy at the local government level, we say look, you have to conduct the local government election,” Wike stated.

The FCT minister vowed to campaign for his candidates from next week, noting that the local government election will go on as scheduled.

“I’m going for campaign next week. I will. I’m going to campaign for my local government. I believe we have done quite a lot and the PDP will win in my local government,” he pointed out.

Besides, the minister dismissed insinuations that President Bola Tinubu was unapproachable, stressing that the president cannot personally attend to everyone. He maintained that governance involves teamwork and that Nigerians should engage ministers and presidential advisers rather than expect direct access to the President.

“When you say Mr President is unapproachable, and the government is unapproachable, what do you call a government? Must everybody reach Mr President? Is that the way the government runs?

“If everybody in this country refuses to reach out to ministers or special advisers and just wants to see Mr President, how many people can he attend to at a time? I am a minister, if you have a problem regarding the activities in the FCT, have you tried to reach out to the FCT minister?” he queried.

He was responding to recent comments by a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), BabachirLawal, who had described Tinubu and his administration as inaccessible.

Wike also claimed that Lawal turned against Tinubu after he was allegedly overlooked for the position of vice president in 2023.

He said: “When Mr President chose his vice-presidential candidate, I was one of those BabachirLawal visited. He came to my house in Port Harcourt. What was his anger? His anger was that he thought Mr President would have chosen him as the vice presidential candidate. Having not done that, he let loose.”

Wike described Lawal’s criticisms of the president as disrespectful, advising that if Lawal had issues with Tinubu, there was “nothing wrong” in addressing them directly with the president.

Besides, Wike attacked his predecessor in office, ex-Governor RotimiAmaechi, maintaining the presidential ambition of the former Transportation Minister was dead on arrival and dismissing Amaechi’s claims that he will end corruption in one month.

Amaechi, who is now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) opposition coalition, had said the party was determined to wrest power from Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 poll.

Wike added: “He (Amaechi) knows he won’t get the ticket. I read that he said he knows the weaknesses of the president, so he knows how to defeat him, but he also knew the weaknesses of the president in 2022 when the president defeated him mercilessly in the primary.

“Nigerians know the last person they will give a ticket to because they know it (Amaechi’s bid) is dead on arrival.”

In the same vein, Wike faulted Amaechi’s ability to fight corruption and enthrone good governance, saying he had no respect for the judiciary and the rule of law when he was Rivers state governor.

“He was a governor for Rivers State and what can be more corruption when you don’t want an arm of government to exist. Can there be good governance without obeying the rule of law?

“A man who was a governor refused the judiciary to operate. A man who was a governor sealed off the state high court for almost two years. The man who wants to say he will stop corruption was a man who refused the judiciary to exist, and stopped the high court for nearly two years. People had cases in court.

“People have their businesses in court to settle. The court was shut down. Almost two years. You should obey the recommendations of the National Judicial Council. The Judicial Service Commission made a recommendation to the National Judicial Council for appointment of who would be the substantive chief judge. And it is the incumbent of the National Judicial Council to recommend based on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission.

“The governor refused saying that he would not obey the National Judicial Council which is the apex body that recommends appointment of judges and chief judges in the case. Can such a man really be the one that can fight corruption in one month,?” Wike asked.

Wike also feigned ignorance of the forthcoming PDP convention scheduled for Ibadan in November, saying that as a member of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party, nobody had told about the convention.

“No, there is no decision on the PDP Convention. I am not aware that there is any convention in Ibadan. We are meeting tomorrow (Wednesday) and we are going to challenge it. As a NEC member I have not been told and nobody has invited me for a NEC meeting to say that NEC has held a meeting,” Wike said.

The post Wike Backs August 30 Rivers Local Government Elections appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

•Defends Tinubu, says president approachable •Attacks Amaechi again, states his presidential bid dead on arrival •Reveals Babachir livid with Tinubu because he wasn’t picked as VP •Feigns ignorance of planned
The post Wike Backs August 30 Rivers Local Government Elections appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
15 views

FG to Review National Telecom Policy, NCC to Disclose MNOs’ Quarterly Performance Reports

OghenevwedeOhwovoriole

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are collaborating to review the 2000 Telecoms Policy.

This comes as the Commission plans quarterly disclosure of information on the quality performance of the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

The NCC Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Dr. Aminu Maida, made the disclosure at a media engagement yesterday, in Abuja, where he stated that the process of reviewing the policy had commenced.

“Since the National Telecom Policy 2000, you will be pleased to know that we have started engagements with the ministry to revise the telecom policy, because as per the act, the NCA 2003, we are to guide and provide input to the National Telecoms policy. But it’s driven by the ministry.

“That process has started and that was also contained in the Honorable Minister AbudzunTidjani’s strategic blueprint, which he released early when he assumed office.

“So, we need to let Nigerians know all our operators who is first, second, and third.

“And you know what that would do. The person who came last, will be in trouble with his board. He will have to go and explain to his board. Or it will be an opportunity for him to tell his board, I need that investment that you have been denying me.

“We want to complement it with an information disclosure approach as well to drive that competitiveness. So, that is why you’ve seen us increasingly releasing information, taking the bold step to make corrections to some of our data points, whether it’s the population rebasing we did, or posting in same linkage policy conclusion on the audit we did to adjust the numbers, which unfortunately led to one of the operators dropping significantly,” he said.

According to him, NCC’s approach moving forward would witness a lot of information disclosure, adding that by the end of this month or sometime early in September, there will be a release of a public map for network performance.

This, he noted, was based on “information that is aggregated from all of us as consumers.”

“So, all the performance data as you’re using your devices is uploaded to the network. So, this is independent data for you. It’s going to be aggregated and we’re going to put it on the map, which is going to be available publicly

“We’re going to be doing quarterly performance reports based on that data where we’re going to give an extensive analysis of how the networks perform on various indices–all based on real data.

“So state-by-state, there will be an analysis on various performance metrics.

He stated that corporate governance was key to enhanced performance.

“We looked at the indicators of good corporate governance, and then we looked at financial performance, service performance, service delivery performance, and regulatory compliance. The link was clear.

“So, corporate governance for us we see as a very strong tool to also use as part of our information disclosure and transparency approach to this industry,” he added.

On improved quality of service, he noted that “everybody is yearning for improved quality of service and I’ would just like to reassure you that we are working very very hard in very close collaboration with all stakeholders, the operators, the major ones, the MNOs.”

The NCC, he noted, had revised its quality of service guidelines, adding that it no longer just holds the mobile network operators accountable, adding that there are also the Tower Companies (TowerCos) that are not known by a many people, but who provide power and security.

The NCC EVC also stated that there is now a framework that is undergoing review to standardise the operations around top-ups and recharges.

The Head, Public Affairs Department, Mrs. NnenaUkoha, in her welcome address, said the media engagement between the commission and Journalists covering the NCC was to deepen their relationship.

The Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, NCC, Freda Bruce-Bennett, in her presentation, educated Nigerians on how to manage data usage, such as, turning off autoplay on social media apps and limiting background data consumption, among others.

The post FG to Review National Telecom Policy, NCC to Disclose MNOs’ Quarterly Performance Reports appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

OghenevwedeOhwovoriole The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are collaborating to review the 2000 Telecoms Policy. This comes as the Commission plans quarterly
The post FG to Review National Telecom Policy, NCC to Disclose MNOs’ Quarterly Performance Reports appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
14 views

MOBILE TELEPHONY AND FIXED LINES

SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE writes that fixed telephone lines are no longer attractive

Prospects of fixed telephone lines making headlines are over as many people are no longer excited about installing fixed line in their homes or offices.

The emphasis on mobile telephony has further fueled the disenchantment owing to the flexibility and ease of use.

And despite the myriads of complaints about the service especially poor quality of service and data depletion among others ,Nigerians are still excited about the mobile telephony.

Industry regulators,the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) tells us why.

“Fixed line telephones are no longer fashionable elsewhere in the world as millions of people now emphasize the use of mobile phones in their homes and offices” NCC’s Chief Executive,Dr.Aminu Maida explained at a recent interactive session with critical media stakeholders in Abuja.

The few Network Operators offering fixed lines do so only in the city centres through optic fibre connectivity and some via fixed wireless.

These include IPNX,MTN Group,21st Century Technology,Broadband Connectivity,Spectranet,Tizeti, among others.

Maida who went memory lane brought up the sad reality of Nigerian Telecommunications Limited(NITEL) which provided less than 500,000 lines to over 100m population.

This was before the Digital Mobile LICENCE of 2001 which revolutionized the telecommunications landscape and created a sense of belonging to majority of Nigerians who were starved of connectivity.

The dearth of fixed telephone services and the need to have even spread of mobile services and boost competition may have influenced the licensing of Globacom Limited in 2003 as Second National Operator (SNO).

Globacom Limited with a lorry load of licences including Mobile Telecommunications,Gateway services,fixed line among others has done well as a mobile operator but very minimal presence of its fixed telephony.

But the concept of SNO has run out of fashion as the NCC opened up the sector by awarding the Unified Access Services Licence (UASL) which empowers any of such licencee to offer a montage of telecommunications services including but not limited to mobile,fixed and internet services among others.

Maida admitted that though fixed telephony appears unattractive,it will indeed reduce pressure on mobile services especially with regard to poor quality services,fibre cuts and vandalism which have in themselves become nightmare to everyone including consumers,operators and even the regulator.

But there is solution coming in the horizon with the 90,000 fibre optic ring initiative of the Ministry of Communications,Innovation and Digital Economy through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and the World Bank.In general term ,the fixed line is not imposed on any operators in a liberalized market.

The 90,000 optic fibre spread will boost rural connectivity despite the slow pace of the Infrastructure Companies (Infracos)which were Licensed years ago to take services to rural and unserved communities across the country through metropolitan fibre optics.

Apart from Lagos State which got one operator to cover the implementation of Infracos services,the other six geopolitical zones got a licencee each for the same purpose of taking services to the unserved population.

Although the Infrastructure Companies licensed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to deploy fiber optic infrastructure and broadband services, particularly in underserved areas has been on a slow lane to its promised land thereby boosting the spread of broadband connectivity in line with the National Broadband Plan (2020-2025),the NCC Executive Commissioner(Technical Standards).Mr.Abraham Oshadami an engineer,said it is “work in progress”.Oshadami admitted that Infracos are a major component of the National Broadband Plan, which aims to expand internet access and bridge the digital divide across the zones,”the Commission does not inhibit any operators from deploying its services according to the LICENCE instrument as the commission continues to give its support to the Infracos when ever the need arises.”

Apart from Main One Cable which was licensed to deploy services in Lagos,others including Bitflux Communications Limited (Bitflux) for 2.3 Ghz and MTN Nigeria for the 2.6 Ghz licences were expected to deepen broadband services which stood at 22% by December 2017.

The Infracos are MainOne Cable, IHS, Zinox Technology and Brinks Solutions to cover Lagos,North Central including Abuja,South East and North East respectively.

The others are O’dua Infraco Resources Limited for the South-West, Fleek Networks Limited for the North-West, and Raeana Consortium Limited for the South-South.

Earlier the NCC boss said the days of obscurity and technical jargon are officially over promising that subscribers will now know exactly which networks are delivering quality service and which are lagging behind.

The customers will take preeminence and have a say in what the operators are doing.

“We are putting the numbers in the public domain. Nigerians will clearly see which networks are delivering and which are failing,” adding that this marks a new era of accountability in Nigeria’s telecom sector. When consumers are happy, operators thrive, and the economy gets a much-needed boost.

“We are putting the numbers in the public domain. Nigerians will clearly see which networks are delivering and which are failing,” Maida asserted. He added that this marks a new era of accountability in Nigeria’s telecom sector. When consumers are happy, operators thrive, and the economy gets a much-needed boost.”

There will be Quality of Experience (QoE) portal launch in September, to allow users to check mobile network performance based on their location for both voice and data services. Imagine being able to see which operator is best in your area, all at your fingertips. This tool promises to put the pressure on operators to increase their game.

In addition to the QoE portal, the NCC is shaking things up with a three-part reform strategy. The cybersecurity framework is aimed at safeguarding users against threats ranging from ransomware to phishing scams. “By September 2025, operators will be required to meet certain security standards that include fortifying their networks against all sorts of digital mischief.”

All of these reforms will be boosted by a robust Corporate Governance Code that will mandate licensed operators to adopt best practices in accountability and transparency. “No more shady business decisions and lack of oversight. Noncompliance could lead to penalties, license suspensions, or even management shake-ups. Talk about putting the fear of the NCC into those operators.

But it was not all cheery news as Maida explained that no fewer than one million Nigerian internet subscribers exited the usage of the internet due to increasing cost of data bundles.

The NCC said subscription dropped from 142.16 million to 141.25 million users in just one month. “But with these reforms underway, we hope to win back consumer trust, attract investment, and ultimately restore the quality that customers deserve.”Maida added.

Aragba-Akpore is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

The post MOBILE TELEPHONY AND FIXED LINES appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE writes that fixed telephone lines are no longer attractive Prospects of fixed telephone lines making headlines are over as many people are no longer excited about installing fixed line
The post MOBILE TELEPHONY AND FIXED LINES appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Hot Source
Hot News
August 20, 2025
15 views

RIBADU AND THE FALL OF ANSARU

The arrest of leadership of the al-Qaeda-linked Ansaru group is commendable, writes SENATOR IROEGBU

Nigeria’s security landscape has begun to shift. Terrorists are surrendering, warlords are falling, oil production is recovering, and communities once silenced by fear are slowly reclaiming public space. The latest and perhaps most consequential breakthrough is the capture of two of the most notorious terrorist kingpins in northern Nigeria. The resilience and determination of the Nigerian people in the face of such challenges are genuinely inspiring.

After months of painstaking intelligence work, Nigerian security forces apprehended Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the self-styled “Emir of Ansaru,” and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri (Malam Mahmuda)—the mastermind of the Mahmuda terrorist group that had long tormented Borgu, a geo-cultural region stretching across Niger, Kebbi, northern Kwara, and spilling into the Benin Republic. Their arrest has effectively dismantled the command structure of the al-Qaeda-linked Ansaru group, notorious for kidnappings, assassinations, and extremist propaganda. For years, Ansaru posed a unique threat—blending local grievances with global jihadist networks, staging ambushes on highways, and attacking security convoys with deadly precision.

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu deserves enormous credit for steering this operation with quiet resolve. Working in concert with the armed forces and intelligence agencies, Ribadu helped deliver what is already being described as one of Nigeria’s most consequential counter-terrorism successes. In a climate where victories against terror too often feel fleeting, the neutralisation of Ansaru’s leadership stands as a rare and decisive breakthrough. Public affairs analyst Farooq Kperogi aptly described it as “a visible, heartening crack in the wall of impunity that these blood-sucking monsters of depravity had built for themselves.”

Of course, terror will not vanish overnight. Ansaru’s lieutenants remain scattered, and other criminal syndicates continue to plague highways, villages, and farmlands. But the symbolism of this victory is profound: Nigeria has shown that with patience, intelligence, and coordination, even the most entrenched terror networks can be cut down.

This progress builds on broader gains since mid-2023. According to official data, between May 2023 and early 2025, security forces neutralised more than 13,500 terrorists and armed criminals, while over 124,000 insurgents and their families surrendered. More than 11,000 hostages were freed and 3,843 illegal refineries dismantled, choking off vital lifelines of both terror and economic sabotage.

In the North West, the phenomenon of mass abductions has declined sharply, aided by the elimination of notorious bandit warlords like Ali Kachalla, Halilu Sububu, and Boderi. The North East theatre, once dominated by Boko Haram and ISWAP, has seen insurgent capacity steadily degrade, with fighters surrendering in their thousands—a scenario unimaginable just a few years ago.

In the Niger Delta, oil production has rebounded to 1.8 million barrels per day, the highest in years, after a concerted clampdown on oil theft and pipeline vandalism. Meanwhile, in the South East, the once-feared “sit-at-home” orders imposed by armed separatists are losing their grip, with commercial and social life gradually returning.

Nigeria has also moved to secure its virtual borders. Cybercrime crackdowns and the rollout of the Critical National Information Infrastructure Protection Plan reflect a recognition that the wars of today are waged as much in cyberspace as in forests and villages.

And yet, challenges remain. Kidnappings, though reduced in some areas, still plague highways. Displaced farmers remain reluctant to return to their fields, worsening food insecurity. Cross-border arms trafficking, climate change pressures, and adaptive criminal networks all complicate the security equation. The capture of Ansaru’s kingpins is a breakthrough—but unless sustained, it risks becoming another high point in a cycle of boom and relapse.

The road ahead requires more than battlefield victories. Nigeria needs a whole-of-society strategy that pairs military gains with governance reforms, political dialogue, and economic inclusion. Intelligence-driven policing, regional cooperation to secure porous borders, and genuine community engagement are essential. Equally important is building public trust through transparency, accountability, and consistent leadership—without which victories risk evaporating into disillusionment. The need for these sustained, holistic strategies is urgent and cannot be overstated.

The dismantling of Ansaru’s leadership shows what is possible when political will aligns with operational discipline. It is a moment worth celebrating, not because the war is over, but because it proves progress is achievable. Nigeria has long been accustomed to headlines dominated by violence and loss; this capture offers a different kind of story—a reminder that the tide, however slowly, can turn.

The actual test is whether this victory will be treated as an isolated success or as a launchpad for more profound, systemic change. If Nigeria sustains this momentum—combining security with justice, economic opportunity, and social cohesion—the shadow of insecurity need not define the nation’s future. The potential for more profound, systemic change is within reach, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise challenging situation.

For now, the fall of Ansaru’s terror lords is a decisive crack in the edifice of impunity. It must not be the last.

Again, it is worth noting that the federal government has revitalised programmes such as the National Park Service’s Forest Guard initiative, to reclaim forests used as criminal hideouts, which is promising. However, these measures will yield little if they are not anchored in transparency, consistency, and shared responsibility across federal, state, and local levels. Security, as the old saying goes, is everybody’s business. Communities must actively participate in their protection, and civic leaders must work to bridge the gap between citizens and the security apparatus.

Nigeria’s security journey is far from over, and the path is still treacherous. Yet the evidence of the past 18 months suggests that progress is possible when political will, strategic clarity, and operational discipline align. For a country long accustomed to headlines dominated by pervasive insecurity, these gains, however fragile, are a reminder that the tide can be turned. But it will require vigilance to guard against complacency, foresight to address root causes, and courage to confront those who profit from instability. Only then can Nigeria hope, not just to contain insecurity, but to end the cycle and build the foundation for lasting peace.

Iroegbu, a journalist, security and public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja

The post RIBADU AND THE FALL OF ANSARU appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

The arrest of leadership of the al-Qaeda-linked Ansaru group is commendable, writes SENATOR IROEGBU Nigeria’s security landscape has begun to shift. Terrorists are surrendering, warlords are falling, oil production is recovering, and
The post RIBADU AND THE FALL OF ANSARU appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.