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FRSC, NAICOM Inaugurate Task Force On Enforcement Of Compulsory Third Party Insurance Policy Nationwide

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FRSC, NAICOM Inaugurate Task Force On Enforcement Of Compulsory Third Party Insurance Policy Nationwide

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) have inaugurated a Joint Task Force, (JTF), to enforce compulsory third party motor insurance and digitalise passenger manifests nationwide.

The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, was jointly presided over by the Corps Marshal, FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, and the Executive Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Omosehin.

In a statement by the FRSC spokesman, Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Thursday in Abuja, Mohammed said that the collaboration marked a new phase of inter-agency partnership.

This, he said, was aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in Nigeria’s road transport and insurance sectors.

The initiative is designed to ensure compliance with compulsory third-party motor insurance.

It is also to enhance data-driven enforcement and integrate FRSC and NAICOM databases for seamless information sharing and operational efficiency.

Speaking during the event, the Corps Marshal reaffirmed the FRSC’s readiness to support the initiative through technology-driven enforcement, data integration, and field operations.

Mohammed described the partnership as a model of institutional synergy that would not only reduce road crashes but also improve the government’s capacity to provide immediate financial and medical assistance to crash victims.

The FRSC boss added that the initiative was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises digital transformation, inter-agency cooperation, and inclusive national development.

He said that the Corps was committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to enhance safety, ensure insurance compliance, and promote a more transparent transport system nationwide.

“With the establishment of the FRSC and NAICOM Joint Task Force, we are confident that the number of uninsured vehicles on Nigerian roads would drastically reduce.

“We believe that it will also improve road user welfare and strengthening overall public safety,”he said.

In his remarks, Omosehin commended the FRSC for its visionary leadership and commitment to national safety and regulatory reforms.

He said that the collaboration would yield far-reaching benefits to Nigerians.

This, he said, would be through effective enforcement, prompt compensation for crash victims, stronger public awareness on insurance obligations, and consumer protection.

FG, Group Deepen Subnational Capacity On Climate Project Monitoring

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FG, Group Deepen Subnational Capacity On Climate Project Monitoring

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), in collaboration with the Department of Climate Change (DCC) of the Federal Ministry of Environment, has continued its nationwide capacity-building workshop for Climate Desk Officers and Directors of Climate Change across the country.

This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, Communications Officer, SPP, and made available to reporters on Thursday in Lagos.

The second phase of the training, which focused on Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) of climate projects, followed an earlier session on data collection and greenhouse gas inventory evaluation and reporting held on October 22.

Participants drawn from states across the federation shared their experiences on M&E, reflecting varying levels of exposure and practice.

Mr Gboyega Olorunfemi, Project Lead at SPP and facilitator of the session, said the training was designed to address gaps in monitoring and evaluating climate change projects at the state level.

He added that the training prioritised designing effective monitoring systems and leveraging digital tools.

He explained that adopting a functional M&E framework would strengthen evidence-based decision-making, accountability and project delivery, while helping states tell a clearer and more accurate climate story that could attract climate finance to the subnational level.

Olorunfemi also explained the difference between monitoring and evaluation in project management.

He noted that monitoring tracks progress and improves efficiency, while evaluation measures the effectiveness and impact of interventions.

He outlined a simple M&E framework built around inputs, outputs, outcomes, and impacts, illustrating its application through a climate-resilience project example.

Also, Dr Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Director of the Department of Climate Change, represented by Ms. Dolapo John, said the training was designed in response to requests from subnational officials.

Abiola-Awe added that the ministry remained committed to building capacity across the states.

“Monitoring and Evaluation is a very key issue because one of the gaps identified in the second subnational governance ranking was documentation.

“Many states do not have sufficient or efficient means of documenting their activities. That’s why you see some states that were up in ranking last year decline in this year’s ranking,” she said.

She added that the ongoing exercise was part of a broader effort to strengthen climate governance at the subnational level.

The SPP noted that following the release of the second subnational climate governance ranking, several states have initiated reforms to improve internal processes and capacity.

It added that the initiative, supported by the European Climate Foundation, would continue with a third phase focusing on Climate Finance and Resource Mobilisation for state-level implementation.

FG Approves ₦758bn Bonds To Clear Pension Liabilities -PenCom DG

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FG Approves ₦758bn Bonds To Clear Pension Liabilities -PenCom DG

The Federal Government has approved ₦758 billion in bonds to offset long-standing pension liabilities, including pension increases owed since 2007.

Ms Omolola Oloworaran, the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), made this known on Thursday in Yola at a two-day sensitisation workshop on workings of Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) for Employees and Pensioners in North-East.

Oloworaran, represented by the Commissioner for Administration in PenCom, Alhaji Bello Abubakar, described the approval as a bold step by President Bola Tinubu to bring relief to vulnerable pensioners and restore confidence in pension system.

She said the workshop formed part of ongoing reforms to enhance awareness and deepen understanding of the CPS among retirees and other stakeholders.

According to her, other key interventions under the reforms include pension increases for over 241,000 retirees, representing 80 per cent of those under the programmed withdrawal arrangement.

“The increases raised monthly payments from ₦12.15 billion to ₦14.83 billion, effective from June 2025.

“The Commission has also eliminated waiting time for pension payments, ensuring that since July 2025, retirees now access their benefits immediately after retirement.

“The proposed reintroduction of gratuity for civil servants, with a framework developed to restore gratuity benefits for federal workers under CPS, in line with Section 4(4) of the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014,” She said.

The PenCom DG explained that the initiative was aimed at further enhancing post-retirement benefits and improving the welfare of pensioners.

Oloworaran stressed that the sensitisation workshop would help address misconceptions and build public confidence in the CPS while offering opportunity for engagement, feedback, and trust-building with stakeholders.

Also speaking, Mr Ekpo Nta, Chairman National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), represented by Mr Chika Ochor, Deputy Director Compensation, said the workshop would promote better understanding of the CPS and its benefits.

He said pension provides financial security in old age, enabling retirees to maintain their standard of living, reduce poverty, and avoid dependence on families and government.

Nta added that the current administration had introduced far-reaching reforms in pension administration to ensure prompt and sustainable payment of retirees’ benefits.

In his remarks, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), commended PenCom and NSIWC for their collaboration in bridging knowledge gaps on the CPS and online enrolment processes.

He said the Tinubu-led administration’s pension reforms would strengthen stakeholders’ confidence in government policies.

He reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to promoting national values, policy awareness, security consciousness, and disaster preparedness.

The workshop was organised by PenCom in collaboration with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).

Senate Confirms New Service Chiefs, As Naval Boss Condemns Proposed Coast Guards

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Senate Confirms New Service Chiefs, As Naval Boss Condemns Proposed Coast Guards

The Senate on Wednesday screened and confirmed the appointment of new Service Chiefs, nominated by President Bola Tinubu.

The Atlantic Bell reports that the new service chiefs confirmed are Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen Waheedi Shaibu, Chief of Air Staff, AVM Kennedy Aneke and Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas.

President Tinubu had in a letter addressed to the President of the Senate and read at plenary on October 27 sought the expeditious consideration and confirmation of appointment of the service chiefs by the Senate.

Tinubu had said their nomination was part of a strategic realignment aimed at deepening professionalism, boosting morale, and enhancing inter-agency coordination in national security operations.

In his presentation during the screening, Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, said the Nigerian Navy would deploy modern technology, including drone surveillance, to enhance maritime security and curb criminal activities along the nation’s waterways.

Abbas explained that while the Navy already has existing operational structures to combat maritime crime, the introduction of advanced technology would help reduce costs and improve efficiency.

“We already have structures in place to curb maritime crimes, but I intend to incorporate more technology, especially drones.

“Some of our patrols do not yield expected results because of the nature of the terrain, and resources are often wasted on fuel. Using drones will allow us to monitor these areas more effectively.”

He also addressed concerns about insecurity along the inland waterways, noting that a Special Operations Command has already been established in Makurdi, Benue, to strengthen patrols and response operations between Benue and Lokoja.

On the proposed creation of a Coast Guard, Abbas said there was no need for such a body since the Nigerian Navy already performs coast guard duties.

“Creating another agency would only duplicate functions.

“Instead, funds meant for establishing a new Coast Guard should be redirected to strengthen the Navy’s operational platforms and logistics.”

Abbas also said the Navy had made progress in blocking the use of large tankers offshore, which were previously used to ferry stolen crude oil.

“Most of the illegal activities occur in hard-to-reach areas, but with the use of drone technology, we can monitor and stop them more effectively,” he said.

On the issue of deradicalisation of repentant criminals, Abbas supported the initiative but cautioned that it should be handled with sensitivity and consideration for victims’ families.

“Deradicalising repentant criminals is a good idea, but we must also think of the moral burden. Families who lost loved ones to these criminals should be consulted before amnesty is granted,” he said.

He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to its Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, which, he said, addresses major threats such as piracy, oil theft, kidnapping, and banditry.

“The challenges we face cannot be solved by the military alone. It requires a whole-of-society approach,” Abbas said.

Also, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described his tenure as Chief of Army Staff as one of the most challenging yet rewarding periods of his military career.

“My tenure was quite challenging. Though we made significant progress in securing the country, there is still room for improvement.

Security is not a task for the military alone — it requires the cooperation of every Nigerian.”

He explained that his former role demanded total commitment and long hours of planning to address complex security threats confronting the nation.

“It took a great deal of experience, sleepless nights, and unwavering focus to safeguard our nation.

“While resources remain limited, Nigeria must invest in developing its own capacity to counter emerging challenges, from terrorism to cybercrime,” Oluyede said.

The military chief also emphasised the need for effective information management and the development of indigenous defence technologies, warning that unchecked misinformation could worsen the country’s security situation.

Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau urged the nominees to be loyal to the President and the Constitution of Nigeria.

“We urge all the nominees to be loyal to the Commander-in-Chief, and loyal to our Constitution.

“We are sure with you and the zeal of Mr. President to bring total security to this country will be accomplished, and we have no doubt you will do that.”

In his remarks, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said the screening and confirmation exercise was a constitutional responsibility designed to ensure that only the most competent and patriotic officers were entrusted with the nation’s security.

“The screening is part of our constitutional duty, It is aimed at ensuring that only the most competent and patriotic officers are entrusted with safeguarding the nation”

He said part of the oversight responsibility of the Senate was to guarantee discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the armed forces.

“He added that the National Assembly expects a constructive engagement that would strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture,” he said.

Presidential Prerogative Of Mercy: FG Releases Final List

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Presidential Prerogative Of Mercy: FG Releases Final List

The Federal Government has released the final list for the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy exercise.

President Boka Tinubu earlier issued the instruments granting pardon, clemency, and reduced sentences to some offenders.

Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the Minister of Justice disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Following consultations with the Council of State, the President received concerns on the recommended list and consequently initiated a due process review.

Fagbemi said that the exercise has been completed and approved by the president.

“This exercise is to ensure that only persons who met stipulated legal and procedural requirements would benefit from the prerogative of mercy.

“During this final review, few persons earlier recommended were found not to have met the necessary requirements and were accordingly delisted.

“While in some other cases, sentences were reviewed and reduced to reflect fairness, justice, and the spirit of the exercise.

“This exercise underscores the President’s desire to balance justice with compassion and the belief that justice must not only punish, but also reform and redeem,’’ he added.

He said that the review was undertaken with meticulous commitment to due process to reinforce the administration’s broader commitment to justice reform and humane correctional practices in line with international standards.

“To ensure that future exercises meet public expectations and best practices, the president directed the immediate relocation of the secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Ministry of Justice

“The president has further directed the Attorney-General to issue appropriate Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy, which includes compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.

“This will ensure that only persons who fully meet the stipulated legal and procedural requirements will henceforth benefit from the issuance of instruments of release’’.

Fagbemi commended the public for their patience and constructive engagement throughout the process.

He assures Nigerians of the government’s steadfast in promoting a justice system that upholds human dignity while safeguarding national security and social order.

The final beneficiaries are Commutations of death sentence to life imprisonment are Oroka Michael Chibueze, Adesanya Olufemi Paul, Daniel Bodunwa, Hamza Abubakar, Buhari Sani, Mohammed Musa, Muharazu Abubakar, Ibrahim Yusuf and Saad Ahmed Madaki.

Others are Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa, Richard Ayuba, Adam Abubakar, Emmanuel Yusuf, Chinedu Stanley, Johnny Ntheru Udor, Emmanuel Baba, Abubakar Usman, Khalifa Umar and Mohammed Umar

Those granted Pardon are Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Hussaini Alhaji Umar, Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, Farouk M. Lawan, Herbert Macaulay, Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, Ken Saro Wiwa, Saturday Dobee and Nordu Eawo.

Others are Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuale, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel and John Kpuine.

Those under reduced terms of imprisonment and sentence are Yusuf Owolabi, Ifeanyi Eze, Ibrahim Sulaiman, Patrick Mensah, Obi Edwin Chukwu, Tunde Balogun, Lima Pereira, Erick Diego and Uchegbu Emeka Michael.

Others are Salawu Adebayo, Napolo Osariemen, Odeyemi Omolara, Dias Santos, Marela Christiana, Alhaji Ibrahim Hameed, Isaac Justina, Aishat Kehinde, Helen Solomon, Okoye Tochukwu, Ugwueze Paul, Mustapha Ahmed and Abubakar Mamman.

Also on the list are Muhammed Musa, Nnamdi Anene, Alhaji Abubakar Tanko, Innocent Brown Idiong, Iniobong Nuikidem, Ada Audu, Buka Adamu, Chukwukelu Calistus, Markus Yusuf, Samson Ajayi, Rakiya Beida.

Others are Jonathan Alatoru, Umanah Ekaette Umanah, Utom Obong, Thompson Udoaka, Jude Saka Ebaragha, Frank InsortAbaka, Sluna Alolo, David Akinseye, Ahmed Toyin, Shobajo Saheed, Adamole Philip and Mathew Masi, Bright Agbedeyi, Babangida Saliu, Adamu Sanni, Abdulkareem Salisu and Abdulaziz Lawal.

Also on the list are Abdulrahma Babangida, Muharazu Alidu, Zaharadeen Baliue, Babangida Usman, Zayyanu Abdullahi, Bashir Garuba, Imam Suleman, Abbeb Amisu, Lawani Lurwanu, Yusuf Alhassan, Abdullahi Isah, Zayanu Bello, Habeeb Suleman and Jubria Sahabi.

Others Shefiu Umar, Seidu Abubakar, Haruna Abubakar, Rabiu Seidu, Macha Kuru, Zahradeen Aminu, Nazipi Musa, Abdullahi Musa and Habibu Safiu.

EFCC Arraigns Three Persons For Alleged N12bn Oil Theft

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EFCC Arraigns Three Persons For Alleged N12bn Oil Theft

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday arraigned a vessel, MT Ostria, and three men before an Ikeja Special Offences Court over alleged N12 billion oil theft.

The defendants are Raymundo Panaligam and Roneno Villarin, both officials of the vessel, and Vincent Wayas, a staff member of GMO, representing NNPC Retail Ltd.

They were arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy to commit felony and stealing over 13 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

EFCC Counsel, Mrs Bilikisu Buhari, told the court that the defendants, in January 2024, conspired to steal 13,354,000 litres of PMS belonging to NNPC Retail Ltd.

One of the charges alleged that the defendants, on Jan. 17, 2024, dishonestly took nine million litres of PMS, property of NNPC Retail Ltd.

The EFCC further alleged that the defendants stole an additional three million litres, bringing the total volume allegedly stolen to over 13 million litres.

According to the prosecutor, the alleged offences contravene Sections 280 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The prosecution urged the court to remand the defendants in custody, arguing that they were flight risks who might abscond if granted bail.

However, the defence informed the court that bail applications had been filed and pleaded that the defendants remain on EFCC administrative bail.

Justice Mojisola Dada ruled that the defendants should continue on their existing EFCC bail conditions.

The case was adjourned until November 17 for the commencement of trial.

Court Orders Permanent forfeiture Of $49, 700 Recovered From Ex-INEC Commissioner

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Court Orders Permanent forfeiture Of $49, 700 Recovered From Ex-INEC Commissioner

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, ordered the permanent forfeiture of 49, 700. dollars allegedly recovered from Dr Nura Ali, former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for Sokoto State in the 2023 general elections.

Justice Emeka Nwite gave the order after Osuobeni Akponimisingha, counsel to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), moved a motion to the effect.

Akponimisingha, while moving the application told the court that th ICPC had complied with the earlier interim order made by the court for temporary forfeiture of the money.

The lawyer said a publication was made for interested person(s) to show cause why the recovered funds should not be forfeited permanently to the Federal Government as directed by the court.

He, however, said that no interested person had shown up since the day of the publication and neither was any interested person represented in court today.

“We, therefore, seek an order forfeiting the sum of $49, 700 US dollars to the Federal Government in view of the processes filed in respect of this matter from interim forfeiture to this stage my lord,” he said.

Delivering the ruling, Justice Nwite held that the application by the lawyer was meritorious.

“I have listened to the submission of the learner counsel to applicant and I have also gone through the affidavit evidence.

“I am of the view that the application is meritorious.

“Consequently, the application is granted,” the judge ruled.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Justice Nwite had, on Dec. 30, 2024, ordered the temporary forfeiture of the seized funds, after the lawyer moved the ex-parte motion.

While the Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN) was the applicant, Ali was the sole respondent in the motion ex-parte marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1846/2024.

The motion, dated Dec. 20, 2024 and filed Dec. 24, 2024, was jointly filed by the ICPC and the Department of State Service (DSS).

Mr Usman Dauda, the Director of Legal, signed the application on DSS’ behalf, and Akponimisingha, Assistant Chief Legal Officer in ICPC, was part of the legal team that drafted the process.

The motion sought an order of the court temporarily forfeiting the sum of $49,700.00 (forty-nine thousand, seven hundred dollars), “recovered from one Dr. Nura Ali during a search operation by the Federal Government of Nigeria being property suspected to be proceed of an unlawful activity.”

It also sought an order directing the applicant i.e., the FRN, through the ICPC and the DSS, to jointly conduct a thorough preliminary investigation into the alleged unlawful activities of Ali, in respect of the moveable property sought to be forfeited and make a report to the court within 90 days.

It sought an order directing the applicant i.e., FRN, through the ICPC and the DSS, to deposit the 49,700.00 dollars in an escrow account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The application equally sought an order directing the applicant to publish a notice in any national newspaper calling for persons whether, human, juristic or artificial, having Interest in the money to show cause why it should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

Giving nine grounds why the application should be granted, the applicant said the victim of the alleged crime was the Federal Government of Nigeria and innocent taxpayers which include judges of courts across the country.

It said the money was recovered during a search operation by operatives of the DSS at the residence of Ali.

“The alleged moveable property of $49,700.00 was bribe money received by Dr Nura Ali when he was the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Sokoto State.

“The alleged moveable property is not the legitimate earning of Dr Ali as independent National Electoral Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner.

“The alleged moveable property is suspected to be proceed of crime,” it said.

The applicant argued that INEC does not pay its staff members with United States Dollar as salaries or allowances.

It said the essence of the application was not to compulsorily acquire the alleged moveable property from the alleged owner, but to preserve the property from dissipation.

It said if the court grants the reliefs sought, interested persons including the alleged owner will be given opportunity to offer an explanation as to the legitimacy of the alleged property.

“Where cogent and verifiable explanation exists as to how the property was acquired, devoid of crime, the alleged owner or any other person having proprietary interest in the property will be allowed unrestricted possession of the property.

“This application is not in conflict with the provisions of Sections 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which guarantee the rights of citizens of Nigeria to acquire and own immoveable and moveable properties in any part of Nigeria,” it said.

It would be recalled that Akponimisingha, who appeared for the FRN, had told the court that the motion ex-parte prayed the court for four orders.

The lawyer said four exhibits were attached to the motion, including Exhibit DSS 1 to Exhibit DSS 4.

He urged the court to grant the application in the interest of justice.

He said a search was conducted in Ali’s residence in Kano and the sum of 49, 700, 000 US dollars was retrieved from the building.

He told the court that Ali allegedly said that the sum of $150, 000 US dollars was given to him by the former Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, and Sen. Aliyu Wamakko.

The ICPC lawyer, who alleged that Ali made this disclosure in his extra-judicial statement to the DSS, said the former REC also wrote a letter to the security outfit in the bid to reclaim the money.

He insisted that INEC does not pay his workers or RECs in dollars.

Also in the affidavit in support of the motion ex-parte deposed to by Iliya Markus, a litigation officer with ICPC, he said that Akponimisingha informed him that he read through the case file and comprehended facts forming the allegations leading to the execution of search warrant by operatives of the DSS at Ali’s residence.

Markus said the DSS received an intelligence report on Dr Ali on allegations of bribery received from stakeholders, i.e politicians in the course of his official duties as INEC REC in charge of Sokoto State.

He said the intelligence report was processed and residence of Ali in Kano was searched pursuant to a search warrant executed jointly by operatives of the ICPC and DSS.

“A copy of the search warrant is hereby attached and marked as exhibit DSS 1,” he said.

The officer said in the course of the execution of the search warrant, the sum of $47,000.00 was recovered from the house.

According to him, Dr Ali also made statement(s) with respect to the search on his residence and the subsequent recovery of the alleged $49,700.00.

“A copy of the said extra-judicial statement is hereby attached and marked as exhibit DSS 2,” he said.

He said invitation letters had been written to invite persons he claimed gifted him the alleged $49,700.00.

“I also know as a fact that Dr Nura Ali did not report the gift of the alleged $49,700.00 to any law enforcement agency as required by extant laws of the land.

“Dr Ali had in the past written letters to the State Security Services requesting for release of the alleged $49,700.00 bribe money to him.

“Copies of the said letters are hereby attached and marked as exhibits DSS 3 & 4 respectively,” he said.

Markus said the investigation was yet to be concluded, hence, the need for the 90 days’ application.

Justice Nwite, who said that the application was meritorious, granted the prayers then.

The judge adjourned the matter until Jan. 30, 2025 for report of compliance on the publication in the media and adjourned until March 31, 2025, for hearing of the matter.

Why Army Is Prioritising Transformational Leadership Training – COAS

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Why Army Is Prioritising Transformational Leadership Training – COAS

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous transformational leadership training for its junior and middle cadres, describing it as a vital component of combat effectiveness both on the battlefield and in other operations.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stated this on Wednesday at the Army Seminar on Transformational Leadership organised by the Department of Transformation and Innovation, held at the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto.

Oluyede was represented by Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Operation Hadarin Daji.

According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army places strong emphasis on leadership development and effective followership at the tactical level — where battles and engagements are planned and executed to achieve operational objectives.

Oluyede added that the seminar targeted junior and middle cadre personnel, underscoring the importance of leadership as a key driver of combat power and overall military effectiveness.

He noted that the seminar comes at a critical time, given the diverse security challenges comprising terrorism, insurgency, banditry and others confronting the nation.
The COAS highlighted the need for junior and middle cadre leaders with strong character, unwavering commitment, and the capacity to think quickly and make sound decisions.
“It is at this level that we have you participants, as frontline commanders, who have it as a duty to lead men, sustain their moral, continually motivate them and maintain their fighting spirit in the most lethal and demanding environment of any battlefield.
” Nigerian Army continue to review its tactics, techniques and procedures to develop both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies aimed at defeating its adversaries.
“The seminar is therefore, premised on the need to improve the Nigerian Army’s capacity in advancing its transformational leadership drive, ” he said.
He explained that operational outcomes served as the foundation upon which officials broader strategic objectives were achieved.
According to him, military formations and units are positioned at the forefront of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in respective areas of operations, adding that good leadership capabilities was uttermost important.
“As young leaders, in our army, it is crucial that you are not only skilled in carrying out your duties but also possess the right attitude and leadership qualities to guide our troops on the frontiers to achieve our goals in line with our constitutional responsibilities.
“As you are all aware, leadership is the most essential component of combat power on the battlefield and the military cannot function without it.
“Therefore, every opportunity must be seized to learn and improve in
this area, ” he said.
Oluyede implored the participants to take the seminar seriously, share knowledge, expectations, experiences and remarkable resilience, while applauding their loyalty and performance within Area of Responsibility.
He urged them to uphold professionalism and excellent leadership skills for effective discharge of duties.
He assured them that the Army headquarters would continue to provide the resources, and direction required to perform their roles.
The COAS reiterated the Army’s unwavering commitment to President Bola Tinubu for his invaluable support in enhancing the success of its various operations.
“We must do well on our part, to justify these resources and goodwill by consistently executing all assigned tasks swifty and in the most efficient and professional manner.
The COAS appreciated the seasoned resource persons, “who have sacrificed their time to be here with us, to rub minds and share their knowledge and experiences during the deliberations.
“I am confident that your presence at this seminar will be of immense benefit to the participants and Nigerian Arny at large,” Oluyede said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, said the seminar was designed to enhance leadership for improved regimentation, discipline and combat efficiency.
Abai, represented by Director Innovation, Brig.-Gen. Muhammad Usman, said the seminar was aimed at improving efficiency and addressing negative impact of substance abuse along with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on operational efficiency.
He noted that the initiative aligned with the command philosophy of the COAS, focusing on transformation through effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism and combat readiness.
He urged the participants to be open minded and contribute positively to make the seminar worthwhile.
The theme of the one-day seminar is ” Building the Leadership Capacity of Junior and Mid-Cadre Commanders; Effects of PTSD on Operational Effectiveness and Effect of Drug and Substance Abuse on Combat Readiness in Nigerian Army.”

Import Licence Dispute: Court Adjourns Dangote Refinery’s N100bn Suit Against NNPCL, Others To Nov. 5

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Import Licence Dispute: Court Adjourns Dangote Refinery’s N100bn Suit Against NNPCL, Others To Nov. 5

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, adjourned a suit filed by Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE against Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and others over oil import licence dispute until Nov. 5 for hearing.

The matter, which was earlier fixed for today for hearing, could not proceed due to the absence of Justice Mohammed Umar in court.

Justice Umar, the presiding judge, was said to be sitting at Enugu division of the court.

The court subsequently fixed Nov. 5 for the hearing of the suit.

The Atlantic Bell reports that the judge had, on July 10, ordered parties in the case to regularise their processes ahead of the hearing of the suit.

Justice Umar also ordered that hearing notices be issued and served on the defendants that were not in court.

The suit, which was formerly before Justice Inyang Ekwo, began denovo (afresh) following its reassignment to Justice Umar.

Dangote Refinery had sued the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) as 1st and 2nd defendants.

Also joined in the suit are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, 2015 Petroleum Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited as 3rd to 7th defendants respectively.

The oil company, through its lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, prayed the court to nullify import licences issued by NMDPRA to the NNPCL and the five other companies for the purpose of importing refined petroleum products.

NAN reports that Dangote Refinery (plaintiff) also prayed the court to declare that NMDPRA was in violation of Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by issuing licenses for the importation of petroleum products.

It stated that such licenses should only be issued in circumstances where there is a petroleum product shortfall.

It equally sought a N100 billion in damages against NMDPRA for allegedly continuing to issue import licences to NNPCL and the five companies for importing petroleum products, among other reliefs.

The NNPCL, in its preliminary objection, prayed the court to strike out the case for being incompetent.

The NNPCL argued that the suit was premature and it disclosed no cause of action against it.

“This honourable court lacks the jurisdiction to hear this suit,” the NNPCL said.

In the affidavit in support of the application deposed to by Isiaka Popoola, a clerk in the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co, counsel to the NNPCL, he said one of their lawyers, Esther Longe who perused Dangote’s originating summons, affidavit and written address told him that an examination of the processes showed that NNPC as sued by the refinery was non-existent entity.

Popoola averred that the court lacked jurisdiction over the 2nd defendant sued as Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

“A simple search on the CAC website shows that there is no entity called “Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).”

According to Popoola, the 2nd defendant/objector is not one and the same with the 2nd defendant sued by the plaintiff.

He urged the court to strike out the suit.

Also, the NMDPRA, in its counter affidavit deposed to by Idris Musa, a Senior Regulatory Officer in the office, prayed the court to dismiss the suit as it was misconceived, unmeritorious and incompetent.

Musa argued that Dangote Refinery is not entitled to any of the reliefs sought.

The official, in the application dated and filed Dec. 13, 2024, said the current production of Dangote Refinery is yet to meet the national daily petroleum products sufficiency requirement.

He said based on this and in compliance with Section 317 [9] of the PIA (Petroleum Industry Act), NMDPRA issued licences to import petroleum products to bridge product shortfalls to companies with good track records of international products trading.

Besides, he said the agency is also mandated to promote competition and prevent abuse of dominant market positions and unhealthy monopoly in the oil and gas sector.

He denied the allegation that NMDPRA is partaking in any purported “grand conspiracy and concerted efforts” against the refinery, describing it as “an allegation for which the plaintiff has provided no facts or evidence in support.”

The oil marketers, in a joint counter affidavit filed in November 5, 2024, told the court that granting Dangote’s application would spell doom for the country’s oil sector.

According to them, the plan to monopolise the oil sector is a recipe for disaster in the country.

The three marketers are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited, in their response, said the plaintiff did not produce adequate petroleum products for the daily consumption of Nigerians.

They argued that there was nothing placed before the court to prove the contrary

Justice Ekwo had, on March 18, dismissed the NNPCL’s objection against Dangote’s suit

The judge, in the ruling, dismissed the objection on the grounds that the application was incompetent.

Justice Ekwo held that the NNPCL ought to have filed a defence in the form of a counter affidavit to the Dangote Refinery’s originating process before raising an objection.

The judge, who also dismissed the NNPCL preliminary objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the court, granted Dangote’s motion to amend its originating motion by correcting the name of the NNPCL.

Besides, Justice Ekwo equally dismissed the motion for joinder filed by Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for being an unnecessary party and as a “meddlesome interloper.”

Over 800 Gain Admission Into Federal University of Environment And Technology, Ogoni … Academic Work To Commence With Six Faculties

The Atlantic Bell
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Over 800 Gain Admission Into Federal University of Environment And Technology, Ogoni … Academic Work To Commence With Six Faculties

The Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni, Rivers State, is set to commence academic work for the 2025/2026 session with the approval for the admission of about 800 pioneer students.

Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Chinedu Mmom, disclosed this on Tuesday, when Executive Council members of County Grammar School, Ikwerre-Etche, Old Boys Association, paid him a visit at the school’s liason office in Port Harcourt.

Professor Mmom also disclosed that the university would commence with six faculties that have been approved following the successful verification and accreditation exercise carried out by the National University Commission (NUC).

The Vice Chancellor hinted that the faculties approved include Agriculture, Allied Health Sciences, and Engineering Technology. Others are Natural and Applied Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Management Technology.

He listed some of the courses on offer to include Cyber Security, Public Health, Occupational Health and Safety, Software Engineering, Architecture, and Environmental Management. Others are Surveying, Accounting, Management Technology, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Logistics and Supply. He stated that the Faculty of Agriculture will run two different programmes- a four-year degree course on Fishing and Acquaculture – and a five-year programme for the award of Bachelor of Agriculture degree.

Prof. Mmom told the visiting Old Boys of his alma mater that the management of the university is working assiduously to justify the confidence reposed in them by President Bola Tinubu who directed while inaugurating them in August to ensure that academic work commenced this session.

He stated that though the university was grappling with funding challenges, the management has adopted ingenious ways of overcoming teething problems associated with the establishment of new institutions.

He disclosed that staff recruitment will commence as soon as they scale the next stage of authorisation, noting that they are working to rightfully position the school and give it a firm foundation.

The Vice Chancellor also said that he is leveraging his old contacts and connections to secure partnerships and goodwill from relevant schools and organisations, such as the Louisiana State University, Centre For Environmental Justice and Governance, amongst many others, to enhance the status of the new university.

“By the time this university clocks two years, the world will hear about us,” he assured the association.

Earlier, the leader of the team and National President of the County Grammar School, Ikwerre-Etche Old Boys Association, Venerable Bekwele Wabara (Rtd), had on behalf of the association congratulated the Vice Chancellor on his, “well deserved appointment,”.

He said the association remained proud of his achievements in the past and confident that he would eminently justify the confidence reposed in him by the federal government.

Also speaking, Prof. Emenike Wami, a former president of the assocition, commended the new Vice Chancellor for the steps taken so far in giving the school a firm foundation.

The visit, which ended with prayers for a successful tenure for the Vice Chancellor, also had in attendance the Vice President of the association, Chief Vincent Erinwo, National Secretary, Dr. Dawariye Johnson, Chairman, National Congress Planning Committee, Dr. Edwin Ojirika, and a member of the national planning committee, Senibo Celestine Ogolo.

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