US Company Donates Unmanned Vessels to Bolster Nigeria’s Security
In a bid to reinforce Nigeria’s security measures, the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle, has orchestrated an official presentation of two advanced unmanned water vessels to President Tinubu. These vessels, named S2 and S3 Swift Sea Stalkers, were donated by the US-based Swift Ship Company. The handover ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa, entailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receiving the two vessels. Matawalle underscored the crucial role these unmanned vessels would play in fortifying Nigeria’s security infrastructure, particularly in protecting vital waterways like the Niger Delta and Lake Chad, alongside other strategic maritime zones. The donation followed Matawalle’s recent diplomatic visit to various high-tech military hardware companies in the United States, with the objective to explore innovative technologies capable of enhancing Nigeria’s military capabilities, enabling the nation to effectively address modern security challenges. Additionally, Matawalle discussed the potential for collaborative efforts between US-based entities and Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation to locally manufacture military hardware. This partnership aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of strengthening national security measures and fostering peace within Nigeria. During his visit to the United States, Matawalle conducted thorough inspections of cutting-edge military and intelligence hardware facilities. These included assessments of rapid deployment mobile RADAR systems, drone control stations, unmanned water vehicles, and state-of-the-art biometric search-scan systems, among other pioneering innovations. Highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing defense capabilities, the Minister assured President Tinubu that integrating these advanced military technologies would significantly bolster Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
EFCC arrests ex-NSIPA CEO, Halima Shehu – hours after suspension
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested Hajia Halima Shehu, the suspended National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, NSIPA, for alleged financial malpractices, hours after her suspension from office. Recall that Shehu was suspended from office by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday. Shehu was said to have been interrogated for hours by operatives of the EFCC in her office located at Maitama, Abuja before her arrest on Tuesday. But, as of the time of filing this report, the Presidency, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation have yet to make any official statement about the alleged suspension of the NSIPA National Coordinator. Shehu was expected to handover starter packs to victims of the kidney harvest at Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State on Tuesday. The event was suspended following an alleged directive to that effect through a letter purportedly signed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu. Men of the anti-graft agency later stormed her office at Taraba Crescent in Maitama, to engage her in certain interrogations. According to reports, the secret meeting between Shehu and the EFCC operatives, which began at 9 a.m.,ended around 4:30 p.m. with the former accompanying the EFCC officials to an unknown location. Recall that before her recent confirmation by the Senate, Hajia Shehu was the National Programme Coordinator of the National Conditional Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
Tinubu Appoints New NSIPA CEO
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Dr. Akindele Egbuwalo as the new CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). He was previously serving as the National N-Power Programme manager. This decision follows the suspension of Halima Shehu, the former NSIPA boss, due to allegations of corruption and financial irregularities. Egbuwalo will serve in an acting capacity until the investigation into Shehu’s tenure concludes. Shehu, appointed by President Tinubu in October 2023 and confirmed by the Senate on October 18, 2023, previously played a pivotal role as the National Coordinator of the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme. Her tenure was marked by efforts to digitize the program, leveraging her extensive banking and career background. Before her NSIPA appointment, Shehu held roles at the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development from 2017 to 2022.
APC Council Launches George Akume Foundation
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Professionals Council has launched a foundation for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. The foundation which was established in commemoration of Akume’s 70th birthday anniversary was dedicated to upholding his enduring principles. Seyi Bamigbade, the Director-General, revealed this initiative in Lagos, emphasizing its commitment to championing causes close to the former Benue State governor’s heart. According to Bamigbade, the newly formed foundation aims to uphold Akume’s legacy by focusing on philanthropy and humanitarian endeavors. It intends to empower youth with business grants, extend support to widows and the less privileged, provide scholarships, and distribute educational resources to communities in Benue and the broader North Central region. Bamigbade disclosed the appointment of Prince Ademola Adetokunbo Ade-John as the inaugural chairman of the foundation’s Board of Trustees (BoT). Furthermore, Bamigbade appealed to both philanthropic individuals and donor agencies, urging them to collaborate with the council to improve the well-being of Nigerians in their communities.
President Tinubu Suspends Halima Shehu, CEO of National Social Investment Programme Agency
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has suspended Halima Shehu from her roles as the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). The suspension was ordered with immediate effect, replacing Shehu from her prominent position overseeing the Conditional Cash Transfer Program. The Senate ratified Shehu’s nomination back on October 18, 2023, following her appointment by President Tinubu earlier that month. Shehu, recognized for her banking expertise and professional development background, played a pivotal role in digitalizing the Conditional Cash Transfer Program. With roots in Katsina State, Shehu’s educational journey included earning a Bachelor of Arts in English Language from Ahmadu Bello University and later obtaining a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from the same institution. She honed her financial expertise during a decade-long banking career spanning several banks. Her venture into politics began in 2010, marked by key appointments in Katsina State governance and service as a presidential election observer in Cape Verde under the Economic Community of West African Countries in 2016.
Ex President Buhari Under Attack Over Joke On Fuel Price Hike
Former Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari has come under fire over the joke he made regarding the increase in fuel price. Ever since fuel subsidy was removed by his successor, Bola Tinubu, there has been a surge in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) which has led to subsequent economic hardship. During an event on Sunday evening in Duara, Buhari’s hometown, the ex Nigeria leader said he is glad that Tinubu increased the price of fuel. “I’m glad Tinubu increased the price of fuel, because it reduced the number of people who visit me at home”, he joked. Reacting to the joke, popular social-political activist, Aisha Yesufu, slammed Buhari for being insensitive, saying he lacks empathy and emotional intelligence. “If selfish and self centered were people they would both be Buhari,” she wrote on X. “Zero empathy. Zero emotional intelligence. “There were people laughing at this cruelty to the people. “If they can afford what about those who can’t and their lives are in difficulties?”
Tinubu Returns To Abuja After Yuletide
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja following the yuletide break spent in Lagos State. Recall that Tinubu had on December 21st departed Abuja for Lagos to celebrate the Christmas and New Year break. This was his first Christmas as president since he was sworn in on May 29. Addressing the nation in his New Year broadcast on January 1, 2024, President Tinubu acknowledged the frustrations of millions of Nigerians grappling with the soaring cost of living, high inflation exceeding 28%, and a troubling under-employment rate. “From the boardrooms at Broad Street in Lagos to the main streets of Kano and Nembe Creeks in Bayelsa, I hear the groans of Nigerians who work hard every day,” the president empathized, recognizing the challenges faced by citizens striving to support their families. Emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity, President Tinubu urged Nigerians not to yield to the tough times, stating, “The time may be rough and tough, however, our spirit must remain unbowed because tough times never last. We are made for this period, never to flinch, never to falter.” The president’s message encouraged citizens to maintain faith in the promise of Nigeria despite current socio-economic difficulties, fostering hope for a brighter future.
President Bola Tinubu Signs N28.7 Trillion 2024 Budget into Law
President Bola Tinubu has officially signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, marking the commencement of Nigeria’s fiscal year. The budget, totaling N28.7 trillion, was approved by the National Assembly and signed by Tinubu upon his return from a week-long holiday in Lagos. This budget surpasses the initial proposal by N1.2 trillion, as outlined by the President during his presentation to the joint session of the National Assembly in November 2023. President Tinubu highlighted a deficit of N9.18 trillion for the fiscal year, lower than the previous year’s deficit of N13.78 trillion, amounting to 6.11% of the GDP. The deficit is set to be financed through various channels, including new borrowings totaling N7.83 trillion, N298.49 billion from Privatisation Proceeds, and a drawdown of N1.05 trillion from multilateral and bilateral loans secured for specific development projects. President Tinubu stressed the importance of adhering to the January-December implementation cycle, aiming for the swift enactment of the Appropriation Act by January 1, 2024. The Senate’s recent adjustment to the budget increased it by N1.2 trillion, elevating the total expenditure to N28.7 trillion. The breakdown, as outlined in the report by the Appropriation Committee led by Senator Solomon Adeola, indicates allocations for statutory transfers, recurrent expenditure, capital expenditure, and a GDP growth projection of 3.88 per cent.
Pray against terror attacks in Lagos – Gospel singer Ada Ehi raises alarm
Nigerian gospel singer, Ada Ehi has shared a disturbing message with her followers after experiencing a distressing dream alongside her husband. Both dreamt of terror attacks targeting Lagos, prompting her to urge Nigerians to join in fervent prayers against such potential threats. Taking to Twitter, Ada Ehi expressed her worry, stating, “Last night, my husband and I had a very similar dream. Pray against terror attacks in Lagos and Nigeria. Please pray intently and passionately.” “He frustrates the devices of the crafty, So that their hands cannot carry out their plans. Job 5:12 NKJV”.
APC To Establish Institute Of Progressive Studies
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has announced the party’s intention to launch a National Institute of Progressive Studies in the coming year, as part of its strategic initiatives. During a discussion with State House Correspondents after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the APC National Working Committee in Lagos on Thursday, Ganduje revealed that the institute’s primary aim would be to imbue party members and the public with a deeper understanding of democratic principles. Ganduje emphasized that the institute’s focus would extend to educating individuals on various aspects of democracy, including internal party democracy, discouraging hate speech, and ensuring compliance with legal protocols governing elections and related processes. “The establishment of the National Institute of Progressive Studies aims to enlighten both our party members and the general public about the essence of democracy. It will address issues like internal democracy, discouraging hate speech, and ensuring adherence to legal regulations concerning elections and other related procedures,” Ganduje stated. He further highlighted that this institution would collaborate closely with the government to formulate policies conducive to strengthening democratic values within the country.