Home Blog Page 93

Fubara’s Defection to APC Reshapes Rivers Political Landscape

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Fubara’s Defection to APC Reshapes Rivers Political Landscape

Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) marks one of the most consequential political realignments in Rivers State since 1999. His move, announced during a stakeholders’ meeting at Government House, Port Harcourt, effectively ends the PDP’s long-standing grip on a state once considered its most reliable stronghold in the South-South.

With the recent defection of 17 members of the Rivers House of Assembly and increasing alignments within the state’s political class, Fubara’s switch consolidates the APC’s influence and gives the ruling party control of one of Nigeria’s most strategic oil-rich states. It also expands President Bola Tinubu’s political footprint in a region where the APC has historically struggled to gain traction.

The defection, long anticipated due to the governor’s frequent engagements with the President, dramatically shifts the balance of power. It leaves the PDP weakened and facing the stark reality of depleted structures ahead of the 2027 elections. Conversely, APC emerges stronger, buoyed by a fresh wave of grassroots realignments as political actors adjust to the new order.

Yet, the political benefits come with risks. Fubara’s move deepens the long-running rift with his predecessor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, potentially fueling further factional battles. The coming months will test the governor’s ability to manage competing interests within a now more complex APC family in Rivers State.

Still, with federal backing and a unified ruling-party alignment, Fubara stands positioned to drive his development agenda with fewer institutional obstacles. His defection signals not just a personal political shift but a reconfiguration of the state’s political identity, one that will shape governance and electoral dynamics for years to come.

Breaking: Fubara Defects To APC

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Breaking: Fubara Defects To APC

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress from the Peoples Democratic Party.

The governor announced his defection at a stakeholders meeting held at the government house in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

Fubara joined a host of his colleagues who have defected to the APC this year.

Governor Fubara announced the development during a stakeholders meeting at the Government House on Tuesday.

He said the decision is in the interest of Rivers people.

The governor added that he has gotten the approval of President Bola Tinubu to join the ruling party.

Fubara’s defection has been much anticipated following several meetings with the President and the recent defection of 17 Rivers State House of Assembly members.

Details later…

Agribusiness: FG To Scale Up Youth Agripreneurship In Nigeria

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Agribusiness: FG To Scale Up Youth Agripreneurship In Nigeria

The Federal Government says it is scaling up youth agripreneurship in Nigeria for food systems transformation in the country.

Sen. Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, stated this on Tuesday at a youth Agripreneurs workshop for food systems transformation in Nigeria in Abuja.

The workshop with the theme “Scaling Youth Agripreneurship for Food Systems Transformation” was organised by the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise- Niger Delta (LIFE- ND) Project.

The minister said the youth are taking the lead in agrifood innovation, from precision agriculture to AI powered farm tools and soilless farming among others

“Our young people, fuelled by ingenuity and determination, are taking the lead in agrifood innovation, from precision agriculture to AI powered farm tools, soilless farming, financing and payment platforms, digital marketplaces and agro-processing.

“They are leading with innovation and a shared commitment to sustainable development and are ready to transform agrifood systems, create dignified livelihoods and drive inclusive economic growth in our dear nation, Nigeria,” he said.

He said that in spite of these advances, youth participation remained inconsistent.

According to him, too many young people faced obstacles and challenges such as limited access to finance, land, and processing facilities, markets among others.

“Today, we come together with one huge focus to change the narrative. This event marks a clear commitment to scale up youth agripreneurship across our country and region.

”Our goals are concrete, to unlock land and productive resources for young farmers, while ensuring secure tenure and responsible stewardship of the land,” he said.

Kyari said President Bola Tinubu had repositioned agriculture as a primary driver of economic transformation, anchoring it as a central pillar of Nigeria’s national development agenda.

He explained that the government had piloted youth-led agripreneurship models, expanded agro-processing and agribusiness incubation and leveraged digital tools to connect farmers to markets and finance.

The minister called on stakeholders to build ecosystems where collaboration eclipses competition and where every young agripreneur has a fair chance to contribute to our national prosperity.

“Youth must be actively and meaningfully involved in planning, implementation, and governance of all programmes.

“We must ensure that women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups have equal access to opportunities and resources,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said the event aligned with the Federal Government’s strategic goal of repositioning agriculture as a viable, wealth-creating, and competitive sector.

He said the workshop symbolised a renewed commitment by the Federal Government to harness the energy, innovation, and entrepreneurial drive of the youth to transform agriculture from subsistence into a thriving enterprise.

“This transformation is central to strengthening food security, expanding rural livelihoods, and enabling inclusive national development,” he said.

In a goodwill message, Ms Dede Ekoue, the Country Director, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) reiterated IFAD’s commitment to scale up youth agripreneurship programmes in Nigeria.

Also, Mr Temi Adegoroye, Sahel Consulting Managing Partner, Agriculture and Nutrition Ltd, said the role of the youth is to drive innovative changes for a transformed food systems in Nigeria.

In a presentation, Dr Abiodun Sanni, National Project Coordinator, LIFE- ND, Project, said the project had trained and empowered over 29,620 youths and women as agripreneurs across priority value chains.

He said the value chains included cassava, rice, oil palm, aquaculture, poultry and horticulture.

Sanni said that the project also supported viable agribusiness ventures with access to start-up capital, production inputs, and agro-processing platforms, among others.

Abuja–Kaduna Train Service Disruptions, Temporary Setback -NRC

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Abuja–Kaduna Train Service Disruptions, Temporary Setback -NRC

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced to its passengers that disruption of train services along the Abuja-Kaduna rail route would be temporary, and did not signify neglect.

The Chief Public Relations Officer, NRC, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, made this announcement in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Unyimadu was responding to a publication that said that the Abuja-Kaduna train service was declining.

“The Nigerian Railway Corporation has received and carefully reviewed the article regarding the state of the Abuja–Kaduna train service.

“We appreciate the passion, concern and sense of national responsibility expressed. These are genuine sentiments shared by a concerned customer and a patriotic Nigerian. We value all our customers and take every feedback seriously.

“As rightly noted, the Abuja–Kaduna corridor is a flagship service of the nation’s modern railway revival. It is therefore understandable that any disruption, no matter how minimal, will be widely felt.

“We acknowledge the discomfort experienced by our numerous commuters who have had to bear the reduction in services caused by an incident on August 26, which damaged our flagship Diesel Multiple Unit rolling stock. We regret the inconveniences this has caused,” he said.

Unyimadu clarified that the reduction in service frequency was not the result of neglect or indifference, but the direct outcome of two major setbacks.

“The first setback is the March 2022 terrorist attack, which led to the loss of precious lives and caused severe trauma.

“In response, the corporation prioritised safety, redesigned operating procedures, restricted late trips and strengthened security collaborations with the Armed Forces and the Police to prevent a recurrence.

“The second setback is the recent derailment incident, which damaged several coaches and reduced the number of serviceable rolling stock available for daily operations.

“Repairs and refurbishment are ongoing with urgency, alongside arrangements for the deployment of additional coaches to restore normal frequency as soon as possible,” he said.

The NRC’s spokesman reassured its esteemed passengers that these challenges did not represent a decline in its commitment, but a phase of recovery, restoration and rebuilding.

He noted that the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had demonstrated strong support for strengthening rail infrastructure nationwide.

He added that the Minister of Transport was also consistently engaging with the corporation to fast-track full restoration of train services along the route.

Unyimadu said the ongoing interventions along the route included ongoing repairs of damaged coaches and certification for safe return to service, and temporary reinforcement of alternative rolling stock where technically feasible.

Another intervention, he said, was the prioritisation of security enhancement across the corridor with the full restoration of multiple daily trips remaining a foremost operational target.

“We respectfully appeal for continued understanding and patience as we work tirelessly to return the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service to its full schedule.

“We are confident that passengers will witness progressive improvement and, ultimately, the complete normalisation of services as the restoration process advances.

“The Abuja–Kaduna Train Service remains our pride. We value every voice, including all passengers who rely on our services daily. Your concerns strengthen our resolve,” Unyimadu said.

Kaduna State, Hostile Environment For Insurgency, Banditry –Sani

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Kaduna State, Hostile Environment For Insurgency, Banditry –Sani

Gov. Uba Sani says Kaduna State is a hostile environment for insurgency and banditry, insisting that the state is taking a strong stance against insecurity and will not tolerate any threats to peace.

The Governor stated this at the Kaduna State Security Sectors Stakeholders’ Engagement organised by the Headquarters, 1 Division, Nigerian Army/ Joint Taskforce, Operations Fansan Yamma on Tuesday in Kaduna.

The theme of the event was ‘Community Engagement and Conflict Prevention: Building Trust and Stability”.

The governor was represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs , Dr Sule Shu’aibu.
Sani said, ” Communities must not shield criminals, and there should be no sympathy for crime that puts innocent lives at risk.”
He said the state government was dedicated to protecting the lives and property of the citizens.

He said the government, the security agencies and stakeholders were working together to ensure peace and stability in the state.
Sani said security was not just the responsibility of the government and the Military, but also involves communities, traditional institutions, and the citizens.

He said the government was strengthening partnerships through logistics, intelligence sharing, and community driven structures is crucial.
” Security is the foundation for progress, and Kaduna State will continue to work with security agencies to ensure stability.

“The Kaduna peace mode, the state’s approach to security is being emulated by neighboring states, and the government is committed to maintaining this model, “Sani said.

He commended the 1 Division Nigerian Army for organising the stakeholders’ meeting and bringing together the stakeholders to discuss security and develop strategies.

Earlier, the Chief host , Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, who doubles as the Commander, Sector 1, Operation Fansan Yamma, said the forum was aimed at addressing critical security challenges and collaboratively chart a course toward a safer and more secure Kaduna State.

“Our state, rich in cultural diversity and economic potential, epitomises Nigeria’s strength and resilience, yet faces significant security threats, including abductions, village attacks, and daily disruptions that necessitate prompt, decisive collective action.

“The agenda before us is comprehensive, exploring all aspects of security requirements, challenges, and socio-economic dimensions.

“We will candidly assess the current security landscape, pinpoint vulnerabilities needing urgent attention, and explore effective modes of intelligence sharing and best practices, “he said.

Wase said strengthening collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial, as security was a shared responsibility requiring synergy between government agencies, traditional leaders, community groups, civil society, and the populace.
He said the primary focus would be developing a robust response mechanism to prevent incidents and swiftly de-escalate tensions.

“We will engage in open dialogue, challenge assumptions, and co-create solutions,”Wase said.

He encouraged all the participants to contribute freely, embrace the spirit of collaboration, and utilise the expertise present to inspire trust and cooperation.

” Together, we can build a safer future where every citizen thrives and development knows no bounds, “Wase said.

The stakeholders were: Military, Police , DSS , Paramilitary institutions , traditional rulers, faith leaders, civil societies group and Local Governments Chairmen, among others.

VIP Protection: Low Manpower Not Setback – -NSCDC CG

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
VIP Protection: Low Manpower Not Setback – -NSCDC CG

Dr Ahmed Audi, Commandant-General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has disclosed that the corps is prepared to provide protection for Very Important Persons (VIPs) despite its low manpower.

Audi said this during the CG’s Quarterly meeting with senior officers on Tuesday at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja.

According to him, despite the manpower of the corps which is about 63,000, the NSCDC remained dedicated in following the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

“The corps has keyed professionally to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President to ensure the protection of Nigerians and all Critical National Asset and Infrastructure (CNAI).

“Despite our size we are not complaining as this assignment is an assignment the corps is ready to tackle and it’s a welcomed idea,” he said.

President Tinubu had, through his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, announced that VIPs seeking official protection must now obtain “well-armed personnel” from the NSCDC.

The NSCDC boss further said the meeting was also aimed at discussing strategies and modalities to be adopted in handling VIP protection.

He said that the corps will also engage in strategic discussions with stakeholders at various levels to see how best to discharge the new duty assigned to it.

He, however, stated that personnel of the NSCDC had been actively involved in the protection of VIPs, adding that the assignment wasn’t new to the corps.

“We have been part of it alongside other agencies, and it is important to note that we get trained by the military, especially the training of our special forces,” Audi said.

The CG also said that the ongoing recruitment exercise into the corps by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) will further boost the manpower of the NSCDC.

Audi charged all state Commandants and heads of formations to live up to expectations in the discharge of their duties, adding that anyone who does not take his job seriously will be sanctioned.

“We will strengthen the monitoring mechanism on performance of heads of formations nationwide with a view to checking what they do and assessing them,” he stated.

He appreciated the efforts, professionalism, resilience and determination of personnel so far in projecting the service.

Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request For Nigerian Troops Deployment To Benin Republic

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request For Nigerian Troops Deployment To Benin Republic

The Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin Republic amid coup attempt.

The upper chamber expeditiously approved the president’s request after consideration of the request at the Committee of the Whole on Tuesday.

Earlier, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, had read Tinubu’s letter seeking senate’s approval for the deployment.

The president, in the letter, described the crisis in Benin as an ‘attempted unconstitutional seizure of power in the neighbouring West African country’.

The letter was transmitted pursuant to Section 5(5), Part 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which requires parliamentary consent for external military deployment.

According to the communication, the move follows a formal plea from the Government of Benin Republic for Nigeria’s immediate air support to quell the emerging crisis.

Tinubu informed the lawmakers that the Beninese government was currently grappling with the destabilisation of its democratic institutions, necessitating urgent external intervention.

“The Government of the Republic of Benin is currently faced with an attempted unconstitutional seizure of power and the disruption and destabilisation of democratic institutions,” the letter read in part.

The president explained that the request had become necessary after consultations with the National Defence Council, noting Nigeria’s regional responsibility and long-standing ties with Benin.

“The distinguished senate may wish to note that the Government of the Republic of Benin requires exceptional and immediate air support.

“Considering the close ties of brotherhood and friendship between Nigeria and Benin, as well as the principles of collective security upheld within ECOWAS, it is our duty to provide the support as requested,” he said.

After the approval of Tinubu’s request, Akpabio remarked that he (the president) had taken a step in the right direction.

“He is acting constitutionally. And I also want to thank my colleagues for giving the approval and the consent without much discussion.

“This is because we believe that this is a step in the right direction. So I believe the letter of consent will be sent to the president immediately.

“We thank him (Tinubu) for rising to the occasion because an injury to one is an injury to all. And moreover, the impact this would have had on Nigeria in terms of security of our borders would have been terrible.

“So we congratulate him for rising to the occasion and we wholly consent to his actions,” the senate president said.

Army, EFCC Strengthen Ties Against Financial Crime In Edo

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
Army, EFCC Strengthen Ties Against Financial Crime In Edo

The Nigerian Army and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reaffirmed their joint commitment to combating corruption and other financial crimes in Edo State,

EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Tuesday, in Abuja.

Oyewale said that the new Commander of 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig-Gen A. O. Balogun, pledged the Army’s support for the EFCC during a courtesy visit to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Commission, on Monday.

He quoted Balogun as saying that the EFCC required the backing of all Nigerians to effectively deliver on its mandate as the country’s foremost anti-corruption agency.

“The EFCC needs the support of every Nigerian, given its role as the foremost anti-corruption agency in Nigeria.”

According to Oyewale, Balogun noted that cooperation from key stakeholders was critical to disrupting financial crimes, particularly through monitoring illicit fund movements.

“If we can detect the flow of funds, we can nip such crimes in the bud,” the brigade commander is quoted as saying.

Oyewale said that the army chief also highlighted the long-standing relationship between the military and the anti-graft agency, covering personnel training, the fight against illegal oil bunkering and other joint operations.

“One of the reasons for our visit is to familiarise ourselves with the leadership of the Commission so that we can build on the existing relationships between the two institutions.

“It is not about competition but about collaboration. It doesn’t matter who kills the snake as much as the snake is killed,” Balogun is quoted as saying, assuring that the military was ready to provide support to the Commission whenever required.

Oyewale said that the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC in Benin, Deputy Commander of the Commission, Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, appreciated the visit, describing synergy between security agencies as essential in tackling crime.

“Synergy and collaboration are crucial as no single agency or institution can effectively eliminate crimes and criminality in the society,” he quotes Sa’ad as saying.

According to him, Sa’ad described the Nigerian Army as a critical stakeholder in the anti-corruption fight.

“We build synergy and collaborate with relevant stakeholders, and the Nigeria Army is a critical stakeholder.

“Our interest and your interest are the same, which is to have a better Nigeria, and so we are willing to collaborate with you,” Sa’ad is quoted as saying.

NAF Defends C-130 Precautionary Landing In Burkina Faso, Reveals Next Action …FG Probes Incident

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
NAF Defends C-130 Precautionary Landing In Burkina Faso, Reveals Next Action …FG Probes Incident

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that its C-130 transport aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on Monday after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ejodame said that the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal for scheduled maintenance when the crew opted to divert in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.

He said the aircrew landed safely and had since received cordial support from Burkinabe authorities, adding that plans were ongoing to resume the mission once technical checks were completed.

Ejodame reassured the public that the NAF remained committed to strict compliance with operational and safety standards while ensuring the protection of its personnel in the discharge of its constitutional duties.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has stated that it is investigating the incident following reports from Burkina Faso that a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft was forced to land in Bobo Dioulasso after allegedly violating the country’s airspace.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, explained that officials were still gathering details on the matter.

It was earlier reported that the Government of Burkina Faso accused a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying eleven soldiers of violating its airspace and being forced to land in the country on Monday.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, was first reported by the Agence d’Information du Burkina, which published a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States.

According to the statement, the aircraft, carrying two crew members and nine soldiers, made an emergency landing while operating in Burkinabe airspace.

The Sahel regional body said its investigation revealed “the absence of authorisation to fly over the territory of Burkina Faso for this military device.”

It added, “The Confederation of Sahel States informs the public that a C-130 aircraft belonging to the Air Force of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was forced to land today, December 8, 2025, in Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, following an in-flight emergency while operating in Burkinabe airspace.

“The military aircraft had two crew members and nine passengers on board, all military personnel.”

The Confederation condemned the incident as a breach of sovereignty, saying it “condemns with the utmost firmness this violation of its airspace and the sovereignty of its member States.”

It also warned that its air and anti-aircraft units have been placed on maximum alert and “are authorised to neutralise any aircraft that would violate the Confederate space.”

NDA Commandant Charges Promoted Officers To Embrace Command, Leadership, Management

The Atlantic Bell
-
0
NDA Commandant Charges Promoted Officers To Embrace Command, Leadership, Management

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), has charged the newly promoted officers of the academy to imbibe the core principles of Command, Leadership and Management as foundational pillars for effective military service.
The commandant of the academy, Maj.-Gen. Olatoye Oluyemi, gave the charge in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer , Maj. Reuben Kovangiya, on Tuesday in Kaduna.
Olatoye gave the charge during an investiture ceremony held in honour of the promoted officers on Monday at the NDA Officers’ Mess Afaka Kaduna.
He said Olatoye congratulated them on their well-deserved elevation, reminding the officers that promotion signified the beginning of higher responsibilities.
He stated that their advancement was a testament to their dedication, consistency, loyalty and adherence to the core values of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The commandant emphasised the need for a deliberate balance among the three pillars of command, leadership and management, explaining that effective military service required more than the exercise of authority.
He further stressed that excellent character, teamwork, professionalism and sound decision-making remain indispensable qualities for senior military officers.
Olatoye urged the officers to demonstrate leadership through integrity, mentorship and the development of their subordinates, stating that true leaders correct, guide and inspire growth.
He reiterated the importance of effective management in the utilisation of men and resources, encouraging the officers to adopt emotional intelligence, reflected in self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills, as essential leadership competencies.
Kovangiya said the commandant placed particular emphasis on empathy, describing it as a critical tool for strengthening unity, morale and cohesion within the military environment.
He urged the officers to remain worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Defence Academy and continue to uphold the enduring ideals of professionalism, discipline, and excellence.
The spokesperson said delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Brig.-Gen. MA Maina, expressed profound gratitude to the Service Chiefs for finding them worthy to be promoted.
He appreciated the commandant for his exemplary leadership and consistent support.
Maina also acknowledged the guidance of the Deputy Commandant, AVM AK Bello, as well as the mentorship provided by senior officers of the Academy.
He said Maina extended heartfelt appreciation to their families, particularly their spouses, for their sacrifices, encouragement and unwavering support.
He equally thanked principal staff officers, officers, civilian staff, families and well-wishers who graced the ceremony.
Kovangiya disclosed that the officers decorated with their new ranks included Brig-Gen. MA Maina, Commodore MT Suleiman, Captain (NN) OO Kolawole and Lt.-Commander SA Makka.
Others were: Lieut. (NN) AS Ashava and Lieut. (NN) CN Ejike.

1...929394...190Page 93 of 190