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Opinion: Still On The US Threat To Invade Nigeria

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Opinion: Still On The US Threat To Invade Nigeria

In an Executive Order titled “Restoring the United States Department of War”, President Trump authorized the US Department of Defense (DoD) to use Department of War (DoW) as a secondary title. Signed on Friday, September 5, 2025, the order also authorized the Secretary of Defense to use “Secretary of War” as a secondary title.

Though Trump did not legally rename DoD, which requires an act of the legislature, the development resonated across the world as a confirmation of Trump’s “Guns-a-blazing” body language, a development that is clearly indicative of desperation on a global scale.

A critical look at the Logo of the US House Committee on Foreign Relations (HCFR) shows an Eagle with olive branch in the right hand and seven arrows in the left hand. The symbolism and significance of olive branch is cordiality and the carrots it attracts by way of aids and other fallouts of soft power strategies (SPS).

On the left hand, the seven arrows signify the proverbial stick that is punitively put to utility when the carrot fails to achieve the imperial objectives.

A deeper look at the Logo shows a map of the world that is diminutive in comparison with the size of the Eagle, which symbolizes and proclaims: “America the Global Cop!!!” That was the reality of our unipolar world. A reality that is fast eroding in the face of the potent from the East. This explains President Trump’s switch to a war mode.

This June, I wrote thus: “From history we learn that empires reach their peak at about 250 years; thereafter, they decline willy-nilly until they collapse. The empires of Rome, Ottoman and Britain followed this pattern, which does not respect culture, geography, technology. This may be mystical but it is certainly mathematical as it defies coincidence. It may sound supernatural but it is historical; improbable but inevitable. America turns 250 years on July 4, 2026.

Alas! the sun of global power-play is following its natural course, setting in the West and rising in the East. The old order (of US unipolarism) is history”.

The cold truth is that, regarding global security, the US does not act impulsively. HCFR and Congressional Intelligence Committee (CIC) are bipartisan and highly patriotic non-political platforms. Therefore, they are not political performers; rather, they are cold-blooded custodians of America’s most sensitive geopolitical calculations.

Armed with detailed briefs of decades-long unrelenting evaluation, assessments and stress-tested scenarios from CIA, NSA, DIA, and AFRICOM, the HCFR and CIC advise the President on critical issues on global affairs with special reference to security.

In all that, the strategic self interest of the US is not only of paramount importance, it is the ultimate and sole objective.

Therefore, pronouncements by the President of the United States (POTUS) on global security are not whimsical. US troops will enter Nigeria.
In a recent Forbes Breaking News interview, Trump gloried on the growing global respect for the US. In a narcissistic self praise, Trump said thus: “They’re not laughing anymore. They respect us like they’ve never done before.” Disregard the poetic rhythm; it was accidental.

Note the bruised ego essence of the above averment by no less a person than POTUS. If nothing else, it is a clear and loudly expressed indication of the extent to which the US has tanked in global rating and the resultant desperation for validation in a global amphitheater that is fast degenerating to the Hobbesian state of nature; a global amphitheater where unipolarism is fast becoming history.

Sadly, the US lives in denial of the bipolarity of our contemporary world.

To understand contemporary world politics is to appreciate that the state of nature as enunciated by Thomas Hobbes in 1651 is a bleeding geopolitical logic rather than the antiquated philosophy, which some scholars erroneously confine it to.

In an obviously anarchic international system, morality takes the distant back seat behind strategic self interest. It is against this scenario that this piece interrogates the US threat to invade Nigeria ostensibly to stop the genocide against Nigerian Christians.

A central concept in political science, economics, business, and ethics, Strategic Self-Interest (SSI) refers to the deliberate pursuit of one’s own goals or advantages in a way that is calculated, long-term, and often involves weighing trade-offs. Unlike mere selfishness or impulsive behavior, SSI requires foresight, planning, and the ability to align one’s personal or organizational interests with broader systems or relationships.

At its core, SSI is about maximizing benefits while minimizing costs or risks. It involves a rational assessment of available options and their consequences over time. It is not necessarily unethical or self-serving in a narrow sense; rather, it often incorporates cooperation, compromise, and even diplomatic and soft power strategies by way of aid, economic cooperation, cultural influence, and propaganda.

Recently, a commentator described the US as “a greedy bully with every reason to invade and take advantage of the situation”. Shortly thereafter, another commentator wrote thus: “We can debate, shout, dismiss, or comfort ourselves with nationalist rhetoric, but none of that alters the geopolitical logic already in motion. The US will eventually deploy military assets to Nigeria—not out of charity, not out of sentimental concern, but because the decision has long been settled within America’s deep security architecture…It is not a question of if. It is a question of when the US will invade Nigeria”.

Note the chilling statement: “not out of charity, not out of sentimental concern, but because the decision has long been settled within America’s deep security architecture”. That decision is informed by US strategic self-interest; it has nothing whatsoever to do with genocide against Christians in Nigeria, which is only a convenient and highly welcome facade for the US. And what is the objective of invading Nigeria? Read my forthcoming piece titled The Objectives of US Invasion of Nigeria”.

By Prof. Jason Osai

NDDC Mourns Ewhrudjakpo, Suspends Bayelsa Project Commissioning

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NDDC Mourns Ewhrudjakpo, Suspends Bayelsa Project Commissioning

The Board, Management and Staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Ph.D., describing his death as a profound loss to Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta region and the nation at large.

In a condolence message to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, jointly signed by the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, and the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Commission announced the suspension of the commissioning of its projects in Bayelsa State as a mark of respect for the late Deputy Governor. The commissioning exercise was earlier scheduled for December 16, 2025.

The NDDC noted that Senator Ewhrudjakpo was a man of candour, unwavering commitment and exceptional dedication to public service, qualities that earned him the reputation of a tireless and “workaholic” leader. According to the Commission, his life and career were defined by selfless service, sacrifice and an unrelenting passion for the development of his people.

Reflecting on his public service journey, the Commission recalled his impactful tenure as Commissioner for Works in Bayelsa State, during which he played a critical role in driving infrastructural development across the state. His service as Senator representing Bayelsa West in the 9th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was also described as distinguished, marked by competence, vision and a strong commitment to national progress.

The NDDC further described the late Deputy Governor as a humble, sincere and patriotic leader who embodied integrity and simplicity, setting a worthy example for current and future leaders to emulate.

The Commission stated that Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s legacy of principled leadership, devotion to humanity and commitment to the common good would continue to endure and inspire generations yet unborn.

The NDDC prayed that God Almighty grants comfort, strength and fortitude to the government and people of Bayelsa State, as well as to the family of the deceased, and that the gentle soul of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo finds eternal rest in the bosom of the Almighty.

FAAC Shares N1.9trn To FG, States, LGs

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FAAC Shares N1.9trn To FG, States, LGs

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has shared the sum of N1.928 trillion with the three tiers of government.

The Federal Ministry of Finance, in a statement last night in Abuja, indicated that accruals into the Federation Revenue for the month of November stood at N2.343 trillion.

The Federal Government received N747.159 billion, the states received N601.731 billion, and the local government councils got N445.266 billion, while the oil-producing states received N134.355 billion as derivation (13% of mineral revenue).

The sum of N84.251 billion was given for the cost of collection, while N330.625 billion was allocated for transfers, intervention and refunds.

Gross revenue available from the Value Added Tax (VAT) for the month under consideration was N563.042 billion as against N719.827 billion distributed in the preceding month, resulting in a decrease of N156.785 billion.

From the stated amount, the sum of N22.522 billion was allocated for the cost of collection, and the sum of N54.682 billion was given for transfers, intervention and refunds.

The remaining sum of N485.838 billion was distributed to the three tiers of government, with the federal receiving N72.876 billion, the states N242.919 billion, and local government councils N170.043 billion.

Accordingly, the Gross Statutory Revenue of N1.736 trillion received for the month was lower than the sum of N2.164 trillion received in the previous month by N427.969 billion.

From the stated amount, the sum of N59.993 billion was allocated for the cost of collection and a total sum of N273.925 billion for transfers, intervention and refunds.

The remaining balance of N1.403 trillion was distributed as follows: The federal government received N668.336 billion, the states received N338.989 billion, the sum of N261.346 billion was allocated to LGCs, while N134.355 billion was given to Derivation Revenue (13% mineral-producing states).

Also, the sum of N43.400 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) was distributed to the three (3) tiers of government as follows: the Federal Government received N5.947 billion, states got N19.823 billion, and local government councils received N13.876 billion, while N1.736 billion was allocated for the cost of collection, and the sum of N2.018 billion was given to transfers, refunds and savings.

Police To Resume Nationwide Enforcement Of Tinted Glass Permit January 2

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Police To Resume Nationwide Enforcement Of Tinted Glass Permit January 2

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced that it will resume nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy from January 2, 2026, citing rising security concerns linked to the misuse of unauthorised tinted vehicle glass.

The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Police, Benjamin Hundeyin.

According to the police, the move followed a review of emerging security threats and the need to strengthen public safety, pending the final determination of a related matter currently before the court.

The NPF clarified that no court order restrained it from enforcing the law regulating the use of tinted glass on vehicles. It explained that enforcement was earlier suspended in the interest of transparency and public convenience, to allow motorists adequate time to regularise their documents and complete the permit application process without pressure.

However, the police noted that recent security assessments have shown an increase in criminal activities involving vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass.

Such vehicles, the statement said, have been used by criminal elements to conceal their identities while carrying out offences including armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

“In recent times, there has been a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass,” the statement read.

“Some individuals and organised criminal groups have exploited this gap to conceal their identities and facilitate crimes ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping and other violent crimes.”

The police said the resumption of enforcement has therefore become necessary and urgent as a proactive measure to safeguard lives and property across the country.

“Consequently, enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit will resume nationwide on January 2, 2026,” the statement added.

Fubara’s Commitment to Affordable Housing Shines As Greater TAF City Estate Takes Off

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Fubara’s Commitment to Affordable Housing Shines As Greater TAF City Estate Takes Off

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to addressing the housing needs of the people with the commissioning of Phase One of the Greater TAF City Housing Estate, despite stiff opposition and over 90 court cases instituted to frustrate the project.

The housing estate, developed through the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA), represents a bold and deliberate effort by the Fubara administration to decongest Port Harcourt metropolis and provide decent, affordable homes for middle-income earners.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Monday, December 15, 2025, Governor Fubara described the project as a clear demonstration of his administration’s resolve to put the welfare of the people above all obstacles.

“This project shows our determination to solve the housing challenge in Rivers State. Despite the difficulties and distractions, we remained focused because the interest of our people must always come first,” the Governor said.

He revealed that the project was confronted by more than 90 litigations from individuals claiming ownership of the land, a situation he said was deliberately orchestrated to stall development. According to him, overcoming these challenges underscores the administration’s seriousness in delivering critical infrastructure that directly improves living conditions.

Governor Fubara explained that Phase One is part of a broader vision to deliver 1,000 housing units initially, within an ambitious plan of 20,000 affordable homes across the axis.

“What we are commissioning today confirms that our promise to deliver housing is real. This is not just about buildings; it is about providing security, dignity and stability for our people,” he stated.

The Governor urged land allottees in the area to commence development without delay, stressing that accelerated growth of the estate would further ease housing pressure in the state.

He commended the private sector partner, Greater TAF Nigeria Limited, for its resilience and assured continued government support to ensure the full realization of the 20,000 housing units.

Governor Fubara also aligned the project with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing initiative, noting that Rivers State has allocated land for 1,000 federal housing units to complement the state’s efforts.

“When these units are completed alongside our remaining projects, access to housing will significantly improve, and with that, social stability and reduced crime will follow,” he said.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Greater TAF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mustapha Njie, praised Governor Fubara’s leadership, describing him as the driving force behind the success of the project. He noted that the public-private partnership model has earned continental recognition as Africa’s most innovative affordable housing PPP.

Also speaking, the Acting Administrator of GPHCDA, Barrister Bennett Chu, said the project reflects the Governor’s vision of providing hope and decent shelter for low- and middle-income earners.

The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon. Wobodo Charles, lauded Governor Fubara for his consistent commitment to people-oriented projects, describing the housing estate as a testament to the Governor’s passion for improving the quality of life of Rivers people.

Health Insurance: NCoS Seeks NHIA Coverage For 81,000 Inmates Nationwide

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Health Insurance: NCoS Seeks NHIA Coverage For 81,000 Inmates Nationwide

The Controller General (CG) of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, has appealed to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to include inmates in its health insurance scheme.

Nwakuche made the appeal on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the Director-General of NHIA, Dr Kelechi Ohiri.

Nwakuche said that the idea was to address persistent healthcare challenges and prevent avoidable deaths among inmates.

He said inmates as captives and underserved population deserve access to quality healthcare as legitimate citizens in the country.

The CG noted that the visit coincided with his one year in office, having been appointed in acting capacity by President Bola Tinubu, on Dec. 15, 2024.

This, he said, followed the retirement of his predecessor, adding that his appointment was later confirmed by the Senate in April as substantive Controller-General.

He stressed that the change in the CG’s name goes beyond nomenclature to reflect genuine correction, rehabilitation and welfare of both inmates and staff.

“In pursuing this mandate, I have paid visits to several agencies that directly and positively impact our Service, and the NHIA is a critical one. Although engagements had been discussed previously, official duties delayed the visit until now,” he said.

Nwakuche disclosed that the NCoS currently had about 81,000 inmates spread across over 250 custodial facilities nationwide, including women, persons living with disabilities and babies born within custodial centres.

He also stressed that inmates remained citizens of Nigeria and should not be excluded from national social protection programmes, particularly health insurance.

“One of our major challenges is access to healthcare.

“Often, when inmates are taken to hospitals, treatment is delayed because hospitals demand upfront payment before services can commence, and this has led to unfortunate fatalities,” he said.

The CG said his visit was to plead, urge and formally request that inmates be captured under NHIA’s operational framework.

This, he said, was whether as part of the vulnerable groups or any suitable insurance package, to ensure seamless access to healthcare through Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs).

“I am not a technical person in your space. I don’t know how it will be done, but these are my challenges and problems.

“These people are vulnerable because they do not have access to what those in the free world can easily access,” he said.

He appealed to NHIA’s management to technically examine ways of integrating inmates into its programmes to cater for their medical needs and restore hope to those in custody.

Nwakuche also highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate inmates into other national systems, revealing that the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) had agreed to commence the capture of inmates under the National Identification Number (NIN) scheme.

“If you don’t capture them and you only plan with people outside, when they are discharged, they distort the programmes already designed,” he said.

He disclosed that he had engaged the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the need to allow inmates to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

He noted that over 60 to 70 per cent of inmates were Awaiting Trial Persons presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

“When they are discharged or acquitted and come out, they are disenfranchised if they were not registered. They saw reason with us,” he said.

The CG added that he also plans to engage the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC) to extend national data capture into custodial facilities, describing correctional centres as “a different world but still part of the same national agenda.”

Responding, the NHIA DG, Dr Kelechi Ohiri, pledged the agency’s commitment to work with the NCoS to ensure that inmates across the country were fully covered under the national health insurance framework.

Ohiri explained that the NHIA was established in 2022 following the enactment of the National Health Insurance Act, marking a significant shift from the former National Health Insurance Scheme, which largely focused on the public sector and selected population groups.

“The 2022 Act introduced a major policy change by expanding NHIA’s mandate beyond service provision to include the promotion and regulation of health insurance schemes across the country.

“The present administration remains strongly committed to achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians, with equity as a core principle.

“Equity is extremely important to us, and that is why we are very deliberate about populations that are affected and underserved,” he said.

Ohiri identified inmates as a vulnerable population and assured that NHIA would work closely with NCoS to develop a clear and workable framework to ensure their inclusion in the health insurance system.

He disclosed that both organisations would constitute joint teams to begin work on the collaboration immediately, with the goal of commencing implementation early in the new year.

“My team and your team will work together to put together a framework for ensuring that inmates in Nigeria are covered for their health needs,” he said.

“We are delighted and we look forward to this partnership. We will provide the support that we can,” he said.

Human Smuggling: FG Deepens Intelligence Capabilities, Dismantles Criminal Networks

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Human Smuggling: FG Deepens Intelligence Capabilities, Dismantles Criminal Networks

The Federal Government has pledged to further strengthen Nigeria’s intelligence architecture and border security framework to dismantle organised human smuggling syndicates exploiting vulnerable migrants.

The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service NIS, Mrs Kemi Nandap, said this on Monday in Abuja at the inauguration of the 2025 Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Week.

Nandap was represented by the Deputy Comptroller General, (DCG), in charge of Works and Logistics, Mrs Ada James Umanah.

Declaring the event open, Nandap said the FG was intensifying a multi-layered response to emerging trends in migrant smuggling that pose serious risks to human life and national security.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the Service, pledging that the NIS would continue to deepen border security and intelligence capabilities.

She also assured that the service would dismantle smuggling networks and prosecute offenders, and protect migrants. especially women and children from exploitation,

She added that the Service would also strengthen domestic and international partnerships, and uphold the dignity and human rights of migrants regardless of status.

Nandap said Nigeria, as a country of origin, transit and destination for migrants, could not afford to ignore the growing sophistication of smuggling networks.

This, she said, was why they now rely heavily on digital platforms, encrypted communication, falsified documents and transnational criminal collaborations.

She warned that migrants were increasingly exposed to grave dangers, including trafficking, extortion, sexual exploitation, violence and death, particularly along irregular desert and sea routes.

“The activities of smugglers threaten border integrity, public safety and internal security.

“The NIS, with the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has adopted a technology-driven and intelligence-led strategy to combat the menace.

“The Service has strengthened surveillance across land, sea and air borders through the deployment of a Command and Control Centre that mirrors nationwide operations, alongside the Migration Information and Data Analysis System.

“Also, Advanced Passenger Information Systems, Passenger Name Records, e-gates at international airports and Huawei-powered e-border solutions installed at more than 144 border locations nationwide,”she maintained.

Nandap added that Nigeria had continued to deepen cooperation with regional and international partners, including (ECOWAS), the African Union,(AU), International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,(UNODC) among others.

This, she said, were to enhance capacity building, intelligence sharing, joint investigations and safe return programmes, while bilateral agreements with transit and destination countries have improved early warning systems and cross-border law enforcement.

“The Service had scaled up public sensitisation to counter the false narratives used by smugglers to lure young Nigerians, revealing that more than 579,000 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members were sensitised this year alone.

“This is in addition to widespread outreach in border communities, schools, transport unions and youth associations across the country.

“The campaigns focus on exposing digital recruitment tactics, fake job offers abroad and the importance of safe, orderly and regular migration channels,” she emphasised.

The NIS boss, however, stressed that the fight against migrant smuggling required collective responsibility.

She called on families, communities, traditional institutions, civil society, the media and development partners to work together to protect vulnerable populations and secure Nigeria’s borders against criminal exploitation.

Earlier, the Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)in charge of Migration Directorate, Mrs Ngozi Odikpo, described the weeklong activities as an opportunity to reinforce national and global commitment to safe migration.

Odikpo said that the Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Week would climax on December 18, which marks the International Migrants Day.

She also expressed appreciation to international partners for their technical support and capacity-building interventions, assuring that the NIS remains committed to sustaining strong partnerships

This, she said, would be in pursuit of safe, orderly and regular migration, border security and national development.

The theme of the event is, “Smuggling of Migrants: Emerging Trends, Realities and National Response,”

We have Degraded Terrorists’ Operational Capacity, Says Defence Minister

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We have Degraded Terrorists’ Operational Capacity, Says Defence Minister

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, says that the operational capacity of terrorist groups, bandits, and other criminal elements is significantly degraded across multiple theatres.

Musa said this at the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 which held on Monday at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, Lagos State.

The minister said that the gains reflected the courage of troops, improved planning and execution, as well as the growing impact of coordinated operations conducted within a joint and multi-agency framework.

“The reality remains that no single service, institution or individual can address today’s security challenges alone.

“Success can only be sustained through unity of effort, joint operations, intelligence sharing, coordinated planning and close collaboration among security agencies.

“As we pursue operational success, we must never lose sight of the human dimension of military service,” he said.

Musa said that the conference remained a vital strategic forum for the Nigerian Army to review its operational posture, assess its readiness and professionalism, and align its future direction with national security priorities.

“The importance of this conference cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the complex and evolving security environment confronting our nation.

“Nigeria continues to face a combination of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime and other asymmetric threats that demand sustained strategic focus, clarity of purpose and adaptive leadership,” he said.

The minister said that security remained a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

“Accordingly, the Ministry of Defence will continue to provide strategic direction, policy support and capability development to ensure that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain professional, responsive and future‑ready.

“The minister will also strengthen institutional frameworks that promote accountability and effectiveness,” he said.

Musa honoured the memory of gallant personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, and whose courage continued to inspire collective resolve.

He was particularly pleased to acknowledge the family of late former COAS, Lt.-Gen. as well as Brig.-Gen. Uba and all personnel who had made sacrifices in the line of duty.

“In addition, we recognise our wounded personnel and the families who bear the enduring physical, emotional and psychological costs of service.

“Their welfare, medical care and long-term support remain a sacred obligation that must be upheld without compromise,” the minister said.

Musa commended the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu for his vast operational experience, particularly in the North-East, and for the leadership he continued to provide.

“However, experience alone is not enough; we must continually ask ourselves what more can be done differently to decisively defeat enemies of the state.

“We must evolve new strategies and remain proactive, innovative and resolute,” the minister said.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said that there could be no enduring progress without security, and no security without a capable, disciplined and professional military.

He said that today’s Nigerian Army operated in an era defined by complex and evolving threats—terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime and other non-traditional security challenges.

“Addressing these threats requires intelligence-led operations, adaptability and robust inter-agency cooperation.

“Encouragingly, the Nigerian Army has continued to evolve in response to these realities.

“I have observed with pride the ongoing restructuring and modernisation of the Army, the introduction of new platforms, improved training doctrines and a renewed emphasis on professionalism,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor said that these efforts clearly reflected an institution that was deliberately repositioning itself to meet the demands of a modern, constitutionally guided force.

He commended the COAS for the purposeful leadership and strategic direction he continued to provide in steering the Nigerian Army towards greater effectiveness, operational competence and institutional development.

“I must also acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army to the relative peace and stability we continue to enjoy in Lagos State.

“Through sustained operations, joint security initiatives and strong civil-military relations, the Division has played a critical role in maintaining public order and fostering trust between our citizens and those entrusted with their protection.

“This partnership is deeply valued by our administration,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He said that the connection between security and development was simple but profound because markets functioned because security existed.

“Businesses invest because stability is assured. Citizens go about their daily lives because vigilant men and women stand guard in defence of peace.

“These connections may often go unseen, but they are undeniable therefore, the strength of the army lies not only in its firepower, but also in its professionalism and unwavering respect for constitutional authority.

“These values remain essential to sustaining public trust and strengthening democracy,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu said that the Lagos state government remained steadfast in its support for the Nigerian Army, both within the state and beyond.

The COAS said that the conference provided an invaluable platform for strategic reflection, robust engagement and the exchange of ideas on how best to strengthen civil-military cooperation.

“The gathering will also help deepen inter-agency collaboration and enhance our collective response to security challenges confronting our nation,” he said.

Shaibu said that the Nigerian Army was deliberately transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven force, capable of effectively addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.

“Each officer and soldier of the army are a critical stakeholder in this transformation.

“I am confident that, within a short period, Nigerians will increasingly feel the positive impact of these reforms on national security and stability.

“Therefore, I urge us to remain guided by patriotism, professionalism and a shared commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of our dear country,” he said.

The COAS thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Shaibu said that Tinubu’s sustained support especially in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernisation, training and institutional reforms had significantly strengthened their capacity to respond to contemporary and emerging security challenges.

Rivers: INEC Registers 99,885 Persons, Displays Voters Register For Verification

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Rivers: INEC Registers 99,885 Persons, Displays Voters Register For Verification

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers, has commenced the display of preliminary voter register for verification and reporting of inaccuracies.

Prof. Gabriel Yomere, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday.

The REC disclosed that the commission had recorded a total of 99,885 completed registrations since the commencement of the in-person Continuous Voter Registration exercise in Rivers.

“This figure is still tentative, pending its verification through the Automated Biometric Identification System, so we urge members of the public to participate in the exercise,” he said.

Represented by Mrs Angela Ebhodaghe, the Administrative Secretary, Yomere said that the display exercise was part of efforts to ensure a credible and accurate voter register.
He said that the exercise would run between December 15 and 21 to allow members of the public to scrutinize the register and report any inaccuracies or inconsistencies.

“Members of the public are expected to report cases of omission, incorrect entry, names of deceased persons, underage or illiterate individuals, and ineligible persons.

“Registrants and members of the public are to take advantage of this opportunity to verify their details and report to the commission,” he said.

The commissioner said that the display exercise was ongoing nationwide, and that all the 23 local government areas in Rivers would be covered.

The INEC official urged the media to partner the commission to disseminate credible and accurate information about the exercise.

“We rely on the media to inform the public of the commission’s policies and activities, and to promote public confidence in the electoral process,” he said.

Former President Jonathan Joins NDDC MD for Late Ayakoro Monarch’s Burial

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Former President Jonathan Joins NDDC MD for Late Ayakoro Monarch’s Burial

The Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has described the late Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro Community, King Righteous Inegbagha, as a man whose name reflects his character.

Jonathan made the remark at the weekend when he joined, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the funeral service of the late monarch held in Ayakoro Community, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In a statement signed and issued by Seledi Thompson-Wakama,
Director, Corporate Affairs of the NDDC, Jonathan
said the late ruler lived a righteous life and that his reign as king brought significant development and progress to Ayakoro Community.

The former President noted that the late King Righteous Inegbagha was not only a respected traditional ruler but also a good friend and senior colleague from their school days at Martha Dei High School, Imiringi.

He expressed gratitude to all those who attended the funeral to honour the memory of the monarch.

In a tribute, the NDDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ogbuku, described the late ruler as a man who truly lived by the values of righteousness, as reflected in the enduring peace that characterised Ayakoro community during his reign.

Quoting the Christian holy book, “When the righteous rule, the people rejoice,” Ogbuku said the burial ceremony was a celebration of a fulfilled and impactful life.

He urged traditional rulers across the region to emulate the virtues of the late monarch by promoting peace and unity in their domains, stressing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Ogbuku added that the unity and developmental strides recorded in Ayakoro were clear testimonies to King Righteous Inegbagha’s Godly leadership, humility, team spirit, and love-driven style of governance.

The NDDC boss expressed optimism on the future of Ayakoro Community, noting that the solid foundation laid by the late monarch would inspire the emergence of leaders who would build on his legacy.

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