COVER
Nigeria under Siege, APC Admits
… Banditry: Residents Deserts 50 Niger Villages
…Abductors Kill Two More Greenfield Varsity Students
…Gbajabiamila Meets Buhari
…Army Records Seven Casualties, Kill Several Insurgents
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday broke its silence over the rising spate of insecurity across the country with an admittance that the country is under siege.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, National Secretary of the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Sen. John Akpanudoedehe also appealed to Nigerians to eschew partisanship and unite to rescue the nation.
Akpanudoedehe said the issue of insecurity in the country has found expression in terrorist and criminal activities of Boko Haram, bandits, kidnappers, rustlers and recently the highly condemnable attacks on security formations in some states, saying such are current realities that face the country today.
He said the party is well focused on identifying and bringing to book the perpetrators and sponsors of the insecurity, adding that it is only in an atmosphere of tranquility that development will thrive.
“These are current realities and the All Progressives Congress (APC) will not play politics with matters of life and our collective wellbeing as a nation.
“As a progressive party in government, we are fully-focused on identifying and bringing to book the perpetrators and sponsors of this hydra-headed insecurity monster and consolidating on our visible development strides. While the party sympathizes with all affected by the security incidents, we call on all to unite against insecurity and criminality, however expressed.
“Only in safety can we enjoy the current agriculture revolution which has seen Nigeria achieve self-sufficiency in rice and other staple food items. Only in safety can we enjoy the current infrastructure revolution that has witnessed the rehabilitation, construction and reconstruction of over 13,000 kilometers of critical federal roads, construction of thousands of affordable and acceptable housing.”
The APC scribe added that the security services are doing their best to contain the situation and appealed to the people to show understanding and support them.
“We must shun the antics and activities of unpatriotic and sectarian opportunists fanning divisive embers, promote peaceful coexistence, eschew bitterness and unite against insecurity and crime, for the development of the country.
“Despite our natural differences in culture, religion and ethnicities, we are more patriotic, alike and united than bigots, sectarian opportunists and unpatriotic partisans try to make us believe. We have a collective stake in our country’s security and ensuring that Nigeria works for all,” Akpanudoedehe added.
… Banditry: Residents Deserts 50 Niger Villages
Niger State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, yesterday said no fewer than 50 villages across five local government areas of the state have been disserted as a result of banditry, causing humanitarian crisis in the state.
Governor Bello stated this when he declared opened a two day workshop on strategies for enhancing Internally Generated Revenue of Local Government Councils in Minna.
Bello, who acknowledged that the workshop is apt, stressing the need for local government Councils to look inwards and strengthen Internally Generated Revenue by expanding the tax net so as to meet the increasing demands in their Local Government Areas in particular and the State in general.
He noted that the present IGR cannot sustain the developmental aspirations of the State particularly with the security challenges that have bedeviled some parts of the State, stressing that while Government is making efforts to boost its revenue, “It must block leakages, cut down cost, adding that it will not hesitate to do away with Local Government Staff that are not adding value.
“As we speak we have not less than 50 villages deserted across 5 local governments now where do we get the resources to take care of them if 80% of our resources go to those that do not add value to the system?
“Now we have to deal with humanitarian problems and security problems all these require resources that we do not have. So the only way we can survive is to increase our IGR.
“At the moment we have over 3,000 IDPs in Minna, apart from other local governments, he said.
The Governor urged participants to be attentive, actively participate and make meaningful contributions that will give them more insight into strategies of enhancing IGR for socioeconomic development at the local government levels.
Chairman, Local Government Service Commission Muhammad Ahmed Dabban and the Permanent Secretary of the Commission Nuhu Garba Ngaski in their separate remarks explained that the workshop was organized for Local Government Directors of Administration and Finance, Revenue officers as well as heads of finance of development areas in Niger State.
They both said that the workshop is primarily to ensure proper and accurate implementation of financial memoranda, have internal control system for enhancing revenue collection by the councils, enhance capacity as well as improve the quality of participants in their respective duties among others at the local government levels.
The Resource Person Malam Haruna Yahaya, who gave the synopsis of the workshop said the objectives of the workshop was to ascertain full understanding of revenue profile , develop comprehensive strategies to ensure enhanced revenue based of each local government and to promote transparency as well as accountability towards proper accounting for the revenue.
Abductors Kill Two More Greenfield Varsity Students
Kaduna state Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr.Samuel Aruwan, has confirmed the killing of two more students of Greenfield University Kaduna.
He said on Monday, that the Government will update the citizenry on further developments. “On a sad note, security agencies have just reported to the Kaduna State Government the recovery of two more dead bodies of Greenfield University students, killed by armed bandits today, Monday 26th April 2021.
“The retrieved corpses have been evacuated to a mortuary, and the university has been notified of the development. ” “The Government of Kaduna State under the leadership of Malam Nasir El-Rufai is saddened by this evil perpetrated against innocent students abducted while pursuing their education for a glorious future. ” “The Government sends its deep empathy to their families and the university management and prays for the repose of their souls. ” “The Government will update the citizenry on further developments,” he said. This now brings the number of students to 5 who were killed by the kidnappers, while demanding N800 million ransom from the parents.
Gbajabiamila Meets Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari met behind closed doors yesterday with the Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, over the spate of insecurity in the country.
.The meeting was part of the ongoing strategic engagements of the president with relevant stakeholders aimed at finding solutions to the nation’s security and socio-economic challenges.
Speaking to State House correspondents at the end of the meeting with the president, Gbajabiamila reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to continue to assist President Buhari as “he works hard to find a lasting solution to the present security challenges confronting the nation.’’
He explained that his discussion with the president centred on security and other matters related to the development of the country.
He said: “We always speak about the state of security because that is number one; we spoke about the economy; we spoke about the politics of it all. At least he has a listening ear.
“We proffer ideas and he tells us his own views and we come to some consensus one way or the other.
“Some of these things, you cannot be privy to them for now. We are still working on a way out and all I will always say is, uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.”
According to the speaker, the president is very passionate about finding a solution to the problem.
“The President is dealing with a very difficult situation and he is as passionate as anybody else, to bring it to a closure and we are here to help him achieve that,” he added.
He revealed that the House of Representatives had since set up a special committee that would offer solution to the nation’s security challenges.
“You are aware that the House of Representatives sometimes passed a resolution where we set up a special ad-hoc committee, which involves all Principal Officers and 30 other members of the House.
“We are going to start that process by looking at different solutions and we would be bringing the report to the President.
“He is fully aware of it and he is open to any and everything that would help us in coming to a resolution in this security matter,” he said.
Army Records Seven Casualties, Kills Several Insurgents
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army foiled multiple attacks lunched by Boko-Haram terrorists and those of Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) at Mainok town of Borno State
A statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima on Monday, explained that troops of Operation Lafiya Dole deployed in Mainok, Borno State, on Sunday came under multi-directional attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists mounted on unconfirmed number of Gun Trucks as well as foot soldiers with possible intent of establishing a phantom caliphate in the town.
According to Yerima, the terrorists were held by the gallant troops of 156 Task Force Battalion until the arrival of reinforcement teams from 7 Division, Special Army Super Camp Ngamdu and Army Super Camp 4, Benesheik.
He said during the fire fight which lasted several hours, the gallant troops tactically lured a number of the terrorists into a killing zone within their camp where the Air Task Force of Operation Lafiya Dole scrambled Alpha jets and helicopter gunboats which took turns in decimating the already trapped terrorists.
“In the aftermath of the encounter, scores of Boko Haram terrorists were neutralized with their body part littering the area and a number of their gun trucks destroyed.
” Regrettably, one gallant Officer and six soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice while 5 other soldiers sustained various degrees of injuries”,he said
He said the wounded soldiers have already been evacuated to the military medical facility for treatment.
As he said troops have taken full control of Mainok and environ as exploitation for fleeing terrorists is ongoing.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru has applauded troops of Operation Lafiya Dole for their resilience, commitment and doggedness and further reassured Nigerians of the Army’s unalloyed commitment to defeating Boko Haram/SWAP terrorists while urging citizens to always avail the troops with accurate and timely information for prompt action”.
By David Torough, Abuja
Zenith Bank Plc has assured its teeming customers of exceptional service delivery and improved customer experience following the successful completion of its Information Technology Infrastructure Upgrade.
The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of the bank, Dr.
Adaora Umeoji in a statement expressed her immense gratitude to all customers of the bank for their patience and support during its recent IT infrastructure migration to a new and more robust operating system.Umeoji emphasized that the bank was committed to delivering unparalleled service experience, saying “We undertook such an extensive endeavor in other to better position Zenith Bank Plc for improved service delivery to all our valued customers and provide memorable banking experiences at all our touchpoints,” adding that the bank now has one of the best technology infrastructure in the Nigerian banking industry, and is well positioned to ensure customers experience exceptional service delivery going forward.
Zenith Bank has continued to distinguish itself in the Nigerian financial services industry through superior service offering, unique customer experience and sound financial indices.
The bank has remained a clear leader in the digital space with several firsts in the deployment of innovative products, solutions and an assortment of alternative channels that ensure convenience, speed and safety of transactions.
The bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the 15th consecutive year in the 2024 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker Magazine. The Bank was also awarded the Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020 and 2022; and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria 2023 and 2024 in the International Banker Banking Awards.
Further recognitions include being recognised as Best Bank in Nigeria for the fourth time in five years, from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024 in the World Finance Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for three consecutive years, from 2022 to 2024, ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.
The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021; Bank of the Year for 2023 and 2024, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best
Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards, Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS Awards.
By David Torough, Abuja
The death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja has thrown the nation into mourning, casting a heavy pall over official functions at the Presidency and the security services.
The Presidency yesterday announced Lagbaja’s death following what many attributed to his protracted battle with cancer.
A statement by presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said Lagbaja, 56, died on Tuesday night in Lagos, “after a period of illness”
“President Bola Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time.
He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation,” the statement read.According to the statement, Lagbaja, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment throughout his service.
He had previously served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion among other sensitive positions.
Incidentally, President Tinubu had, last weekend Wednesday, appointed Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff, to stand in for Lagbaja who had been away on medical treatment.
The President had, last Tuesday, gone ahead to decorate Oluyede as Lieutenant General, deepening speculations that Lagbaja was not being expected back anytime soon.
Following the death of the late COAS, the Presidency postponed the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for yesterday in honour of the fallen COAS.
The President also directed that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half-mast across the country for seven days.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) was also caught in the sombre atmosphere. A joint statement mourning the demise of the COAS was issued by Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kana.
The MOD expressed shock over the sad news recalling Lagbaja’s contribution to the Army and his dedication to duty.
The statement said, “He exhibited the spirit of camaraderie and cooperation with us in the discharge of our mandate.
“The late Chief of Army Staff contributed in no small measure to the internal security operations across Nigeria and also exhibited a high level of professionalism.
“He will be greatly missed by the family, the military and the nation as he served the nation with commitment and dedication.”
Similarly, there was palpable grief at the Defence Headquarters over the loss with the leadership expressing deep sorrow of the development.
It noted that the COAS, until his death, demonstrated exemplary leadership. He was credited with spearheading the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing and also playing critical roles in multiple military operations across the country.
On its part, the Nigeria Police Force announced the cancellation of all non-essential personal and social engagements for two days. The Force also suspended non-urgent commitments in honour of the late COAS.
In a statement by Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police authorities described Lagbaja as a highly respected figure, known for his tireless efforts in combating insurgency, armed banditry, and violent extremism.
“His dedication to the Nigerian Army and the nation earned him great admiration. The Inspector-General’s gesture reflects the deep respect and appreciation for General Lagbaja’s remarkable service.
“The Nigeria Police Force extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and General Lagbaja’s family, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy and commitment to Nigeria’s security will never be forgotten,” the statement said.
President Bola Tinubu and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar yesterday joined other leaders across the globe in congratulating America’s President-elect, Donald Trump.
The world leaders sent their congratulatory messages hours before Vice President Kamala Harris conceded defeat to Trump.
Tinubu expressed his eagerness to strengthen the ties between Nigeria and the United States amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world.
The Nigerian President’s message was conveyed through a statement yesterday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu said, “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens.
”According to him, Trump’s victory reflects the trust and confidence the American people have placed in his leadership.
The Nigerian leader congratulated the American electorate on their commitment to democracy.
“President Tinubu believes that, given President Trump’s experience as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, his return to the White House as the 47th President will usher in an era of earnest, beneficial, and reciprocal economic and development partnerships between Africa and the United States,” the statement said.
Tinubu also acknowledged the United States’ influence, power, and position in determining the trend and course of global events, trusting that President Trump will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity.
Atiku, in his message, described Trump’s victory as “a lesson in the art of rising after every fall,” apparently seeing possibilities of his own victory in future elections amid a string of past losses.
Atiku, who contested in the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lost to Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress (APC).
He has recorded a string of losses in previous election cycles on different political party platforms.
Atiku commended the process that led to the outcome of the US presidential election, hailing the American citizens for their unwavering faith in the power of democracy and the sanctity of the ballot.
He appealed to Trump to stand resolute in ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria and the world in general.
“I closely followed the presidential election in the United States of America, watching with bated breath as the nation decided its future.
“It is with even greater satisfaction that I now reflect on the result, which heralds a resounding victory for President Donald J. Trump and the Republican Party.
“This triumph, without a doubt, will stand as an enduring testament to the resilience and vitality of the democratic process – a timeless reminder that democracy, with all its trials and tribulations, remains a force for good in the world.
“The narrative of President Trump’s political journey, marked by his struggles and triumphs, shall serve as an inspiring parable of courage in the face of adversity — a lesson in the art of rising after every fall, and ultimately, emerging victorious.
“As the world rejoices in the euphoria of his remarkable comeback, it is to be hoped that President Trump will continue his resolute advocacy for credible elections worldwide and remain steadfast in dismantling anti-democratic forces wherever they may lurk.
“The lesson for us in Nigeria is the integrity of the process that ensures a credible outcome. It is the expectation of every Nigerian that the Trump administration will stand resolute in ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria and other places in the world.
“I also extend my warm congratulations to the people of the United States, whose unwavering faith in the power of democracy and the sanctity of the ballot has once again shown the world the true might of the people’s voice”, he said.
Meanwhile the US Vice President, Kamala Harris, has called Trump to congratulate him on winning the presidential election.
Associated Press (AP) report quoted a campaign aide of Harris’ as having had a discussion with Trump on the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and being a president for all Americans.
Harris was billed to make a public concession speech later Wednesday night, which would be her first appearance since she lost the election to Trump.
Further report said she would be delivering her speech at Howard University, Washington DC.
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