Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT handed over 4 bags of cannabis sativa to officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Marine Command.

The consignment, weighing approximately 172kg was intercepted on 24 November 2025 by the NNS BEECROFT Quick Response Team. Acting on credible intelligence, the team intercepted a Van suspected of transporting illicit substances around ljegun, Waterside axis. The swift operation led to the successful seizure of the narcotics.

The Commander NNS BEECROFT, the newly promoted Rear Admiral PP Nimmyel, ably represented by the Executive Officer, Captain Idongesit Udoessien, noted in his remarks that the interception is part of a broader series of sustained efforts by the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of Vice Admiral ldi Abbas, Admiralty Medal, to clamp down on illegal activities, particularly the trafficking of narcotics and other contraband through Nigeria’s coastal waters.

He reiterated the Nigerian Navy is committed to working with other sister agencies to protect Nigerian’s maritime domain and ensure safety of lives and properties. Captain Udoessien commended the vigilance and professionalism of naval personnel and urged the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to enhance safety across the state.

Accordingly, the seized contraband was handed over to Deputy Commander of Narcotics (DCN) Morrison Udo, a representative of the NDLEA, for further investigation and necessary action.

The Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN) has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, on Nigeria’s resounding return to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.

The congratulatory message was contained in a press statement signed by the National President of WABOTAN, Mr Babatope Fajemirokun.

Fajemirokun said the development marks a historic milestone for Nigeria, which on Friday reclaimed its seat on the IMO Council following a decisive victory in the Category C election for the 2026–2027 biennium. Nigeria’s return, announced during the IMO General Assembly in London, is the first in 14 years and restores the nation’s influence in shaping global maritime policies.

He commended President Tinubu for providing the leadership that strengthened Nigeria’s maritime institutions and advanced key reforms, which, he noted, contributed significantly to the positive perception of the country among IMO member states.

WABOTAN also praised the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, who led Nigeria’s delegation and coordinated a yearlong global diplomatic campaign that culminated in the victory. The association described the Minister’s role as pivotal in projecting Nigeria’s renewed commitment to maritime security, safety, and blue economy development.

“Dr. Oyetola’s strategic engagements across continents and his dedication to repositioning Nigeria’s maritime sector clearly paid off with this victory,” the statement read.

The association further extended its felicitations to the former NIWA Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, for his contributions to strengthening the inland waterways sub-sector, which forms a critical component of Nigeria’s maritime identity.

According to details from the election, Nigeria secured broad support from IMO member nations following sustained diplomatic outreach and sectoral reforms that enhanced global confidence in the country’s maritime administration. Speaking after the announcement of results, Oyetola described the outcome as a major endorsement of the security improvements and policy initiatives driven under President Tinubu’s administration.

WABOTAN urged all maritime stakeholders to leverage the momentum of Nigeria’s reinstatement on the IMO Council to deepen collaboration, improve safety standards, and accelerate blue economy development.

The association expressed optimism that Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council will open fresh opportunities for growth, investment, and global partnerships in the maritime domain.

Nigeria’s newest aviation landmark, the Akwa Ibom International Airport in Uyo, has been hailed as a significant catalyst for the country’s tourism advancement.

The airport recently designated an international facility by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo is located adjacent to the state’s domestic terminal and features cutting-edge aviation and travel technology, five-star lounges, recreational amenities, and modern shopping arcades. It is the first of its kind in the South-South economic region.

President of Experience IBOM and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP), Mr. Nkereweum Onung, described the airport as a major enabler of Nigeria’s cultural tourism growth. He commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his strategic influence in positioning the state as a major tourism destination.

Onung, who is also the immediate past President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), noted that the airport would attract travellers from across the world, expanding cultural tourism opportunities within the South-South region, creating jobs, and stimulating socio-economic and tourism-related trade.

“Pastor Umo Eno has shown that he is a professional, a cultural tourism ambassador, and a strategic reformer. His infrastructure initiatives will not only enhance tourism and hospitality in Akwa Ibom State but also serve as sustainable drivers of economic growth and improved security. At Experience IBOM, we are proud and eager to partner with the state’s airport management authority to ensure these facilities are effectively utilized and protected,” Onung said.

He revealed that Experience IBOM, a tourism promotion company, will soon roll out marketing campaigns with local and international partners to promote Akwa Ibom and by extension Nigeria on the global tourism stage. According to him, infrastructure investments such as the Akwa Ibom International Airport intentionally open populous nations like Nigeria to expanded travel, commerce, and tourism opportunities, thereby boosting local community development.

Onung also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his leadership and for elevating Nigeria’s presence within the global aviation community.

The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 12 teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Mussa District of Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State. The victims, aged between 15 and 20, were kidnapped on 23 November while harvesting crops on their family farmlands and were freed on Saturday, 29 November, following a swift, intelligence-led operation by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the southern Borno axis.

The rescued girls have been evacuated to a secure military facility where they are receiving comprehensive medical care, psychological support and debriefing. Upon completion of these processes, they will be formally reunited with their families. Their recovery has brought immense relief to the community, which had been gripped by fear following the abduction.

The rescued victims include Fatima Shaibu (17), Fatima Umaru (15), Hauwa Abubakar (18), Saliha Muhammed (15), Sadiya Umaru (17), Amira Babel (15), Zara Adamu (17), Nana Shaibu (15), Zainab Musa (18), Zainab Muhammed (17), Jamila Saidu (15) and Hauwa Hamidu (17).

The military high command commended the doggedness of the troops for their swift response and acknowledged the crucial support of security stakeholders and local informants whose timely information enabled the successful rescue. Troops continue to pursue ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further attacks and safeguard civilians.

The Nigerian Army calls on communities to continue supporting ongoing operations by providing credible and timely information, emphasizing that collaborative efforts are essential to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting security.

The Army Council has on Thursday, 27 November 2025 approved the promotion of senior officers of the Nigerian Army to the next ranks of Major General and Brigadier General. A total of 28 Brigadier Generals have been elevated to the rank of Major General, while 77 Colonels have also been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “Those promoted to the rank of Major General include, Brig Gen O Adegbe of the Defence Intelligence Agency, Brig Gen SM Uba, the Director, Defence Information, Brig Gen RE Hedima, the Acting Chief of Military Intelligence Army and Brig Gen RT Utsaha, the Deputy Director, Defence Operations. Also promoted to the rank of Major General are Brig Gen AM Umar, Commandant, Warrant Officer Academy, Brig Gen S Sulaiman, the Deputy Military Secretary (Army), Brig Gen IO Bassey, Director, Nigerian Army Operations Centre and Brig Gen CA Ekeator of Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

Equally benefited from the elevation are the Acting Director Procurement in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Brig Gen SY Yakasai, Brig Gen WL Nzidee of Army Headquarters Department of Army Logistics, Brig Gen SA Emmanuel of the Nigerian Army Signals, Brig Gen SS Tilawan, the Acting Commander Sector 3 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Brig Gen MO Agi, the Desk Officer Tertiary Education Trust Fund at the Nigerian Defence Academy and Brig Gen IM Abbas, the Commander 34 Brigade while Brig Gen ZA Saidu was promoted posthumously.

Officers promoted from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General are Colonels Y Ibrahim of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre Abuja, NN Gambo serving at the Army Headquarters Department of Civil Military Affairs and A Saidu of Headquarters Nigerian Army Finance Corps. Others are Colonels A Ali of Army Headquarters Garrison, I Waziri, Office of the Chief of Defence Staff, MM Sani of Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji, AA Alkali of the Nigerian Army Dog Centre, AO Ndah of Army Headquarters Department of Army Training, IB Sheriff of Headquarters 9 Brigade, KR Apata of Army Headquarters Provost Group, MK Akpuogwu of Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke and PU Nnaji of the Nigerian Army Operations Monitoring Support Team, MT Nagudu of Nigerian Army Armour School, KO Bukoye, the Commander 401 Special Forces Brigade, O Adole of Headquarters Nigerian Army Medical Corps, JA Ikagba of 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, DC Ibeh of the 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital, GS Chohwore of 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, OG Okoye also of the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital and YK Audu serving at the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI among others.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal, while felicitating with the newly promoted senior officers and their families, charged all to intensify their professional drive and prove beyond doubt that their elevation is well-deserved. He directed the officers to demonstrate exemplary leadership, inspire their subordinates through personal conduct while cultivating bold, innovative and unconventional solutions capable of delivering swift and decisive responses to the nation’s evolving security threats.

The COAS further emphasized that the officers must uphold, without compromise, their sacred oath of allegiance to defend the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He reiterated that their loyalty to the Constitution must remain absolute, unwavering and beyond reproach.

The Navy Board on Thursday 27 November 2025 approved the promotion of 127 senior officers to various ranks in the Nigerian Navy. As stated in the press release signed by Commodore A ADAMS-ALIU. Breakdown of the promotions released showed that 15 Commodores were promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral, 31 Captains were elevated to the rank of Commodore while 81 Commanders were promoted to the rank of Captain.

The newly promoted Rear Admirals are Olumide Olajide Fadahunsi, Patrick Emuebie Meteke, Ponfa Paul Nimmyel, Sulieman Wale Olorundare, Johnson Adekunle Adewoyin, Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, Anthony Victor Kujoh, Abdulrahman Mohammed, Chinonyerem Emmanuel Oji, Adamu Yahaya, Chindo Usman Yahaya, Aminu Abdullahi, Orakwue Dennis Nnatu, Usman Garba Bala and Samuel Anwuli Ogwu.

While the newly promoted Commodores are Solomon Olushola Ohunenese, Mahmud Abubakar Fana, Taofiq Migdad Gidado, Mahmoud Hamman Hammanyero, Aliyu Gagidiba Abdullahi, Suleiman Gachi Muhammed, Abubakar Umar Sani, Mohammed Ali Kolo, Murtala Tafida Sulieman, Emmanuel Tamunosiki Fingesi, Suleiman Musa Abdullahi, Mustapha Tagoje Abdullahi, Olanrewaju Bejide Animasahun, Owens Ediale Adams Izilien, Olabode Teniola, Chris Chijioke Ali, Kabir Oladele Olanrewaju, Uzezi Egweh, Charles Eyo Iso, Elisha Bawa, Olumide Omololu Faneye, Oscar Chukwunonso Mbanu, Henry Ebute Ejeh, Galadima Mohammed Ciroma, Osuolale Ayotunde Eyitayo, Emmanuel Ajah Onu, Abubakar Ozovehe Aliyu, Ahmadu Shehu Mohammed, Ogbeche Richard Ochagu, Anastasia Nkechi Ossai and Feyisara Medinat Solebo.

On behalf of officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), congratulates the newly promoted senior officers and their families while charging them to rededicate themselves to their responsibilities and remain loyal to the nation and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

The Chairman of the forum of former members of Enugu State House of Assembly and Former Southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Denge Josef Onoh, has addressed the recent nomination of three non-career ambassadors by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, announced for confirmation by the Senate.

The nominees are Ambassador Ayodele Oke (Oyo State, Yoruba), Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are (Ogun State, Yoruba), and Ambassador Aminu Mohammed Dalhatu (Jigawa State, Hausa).

Onoh while addressing journalists at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, said that the nominated diplomats are undoubtedly accomplished professionals with extensive experience in diplomacy, intelligence, and national security.

According to him, their expertise could serve Nigeria well in representing our interests in the United States, United Kingdom, and France, pending final postings.

“However, the composition of this trio-two from the Yoruba ethnic group and one from the Hausa raises profound concerns about equity, inclusivity, and adherence to Nigeria’s constitutional principles.

“Notably absent is any representation from the Igbo or the Southeast geopolitical zone, a glaring omission that undermines the federal character doctrine enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The principle of federal character, as operationalized through the Federal Character Commission, mandates that appointments to public offices, including diplomatic postings, reflect the nation’s diversity to promote a sense of belonging and national unity. This initial set of nominations, as the first ambassadorial slate since the recall of envoys in September 2023, sets a troubling precedent by disproportionately favoring two major ethnic groups while sidelining the Southeast entirely.

“Even if subsequent nominations include deserving Igbo candidates, a step I earnestly hope for, the damage from this opening salvo is already done. It perpetuates a perception of bias in the administration, deepening mistrust among South easterners who already feel marginalized more acutely under this government than during the previous administration.

“This is not mere optics; it erodes the social contract of ‘one Nigeria,’ fostering division rather than the ‘Renewed Hope’ promised in the 2023 campaign.

“Regrettably, this exclusion sends a clear, unintended message to the Igbo people: that their zone is not essential to the administration’s vision of victory or governance. It echoes the pre-election warnings of being offered mere “slices of soaked bread” token gestures amid systemic neglect which I actively defended against during my campaigns for you” He continued: “Mr. President in the Southeast, I stumped tirelessly in the region’s most challenging terrains, relying solely on my credibility as a voice for equity and truth. That trust, earned through putting regional and national interests above personal ambition, outweighs any political appointment I might receive.

“It compels me to speak boldly now: these nominations, as they stand, do not embody the united Nigeria we aspire to. The political ramifications are equally stark. In APC strongholds like Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States, where the party has made significant inroads, this decision risks derailing grassroots momentum and mutual progress pacts with Anambra and Abia.

“Governors and party leaders in the Southeast now face an uphill battle to deliver the President’s mandate and rally voters, as public sentiment sours. Come 2027, APC candidates at all levels could suffer electoral setbacks due to these festering reservations, not from opposition machinations, but from self-inflicted wounds of perceived inequity.

“Many Southeastern political officeholders and appointees in the cabinet remain silent, prioritizing personal gains over candid counsel, a disservice to the people they serve.

“To restore balance and reaffirm commitment to inclusivity, I humbly urge Mr. President to swiftly supplement these nominations with qualified representatives from the Southeast and South-South zones. Such an adjustment would not only comply with federal character but also rebuild bridges, mitigate polarization, and demonstrate that this administration values every Nigerian equally.

“Nigeria’s global standing demands envoys of integrity and diversity; let us ensure our diplomatic corps reflects the rainbow of our federation. In the spirit of constructive dialogue and shared prosperity, I remain optimistic that this feedback will catalyze positive action. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting excellence, professionalism and stronger internal collaboration as the 2025 Comptroller-General of Customs Conference drew to a close with an award night and gala dinner on Friday, 21 November 2025. The ceremony provided a platform to celebrate outstanding performances by Commands, Units and individual officers, including a notable recognition for the Public Relations Unit.

Held after two days of engagements focused on improving synergy, operational efficiency, and institutional reforms, the event brought together Management members, Comptrollers, Senior Officers, and invited guests to honour the contributions that shaped the Service’s achievements throughout the year.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, commended officers for their dedication, noting that the Service surpassed its 2025 revenue target even before the start of the conference. He described the performance as a reflection of the collective resolve shown across enforcement operations, trade facilitation initiatives and modernisation programmes.

“Tonight is about celebrating ourselves,” the CGC declared. “We have worked hard, delivered results and strengthened the pillars that define our mandate. It is only right that we pause to acknowledge excellence within the Service.”

A significant highlight of the evening was the recognition of the Public Relations Unit for its outstanding contributions to strategic communication, media visibility and stakeholder engagement. The Unit was applauded for effectively projecting Customs reforms and achievements, particularly during the C-PACT Summit and the 2025 CGC Conference. Its efforts in countering misinformation, building trust and enhancing public understanding of Customs operations were at the core of the recognition.

Similarly, the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, led by Comptroller Abubakar Dalhatu, also emerged as one of the top honourees of the night. The Command clinched the award for the Most Improved Command, following its remarkable performance in revenue generation, high-profile currency seizures and strengthened enforcement outcomes. Adding to the Command’s recognition, its Public Relations Officer, CSC Tahir Balarabe, won the Best Public Relations Officer of the Year award, a testament to his exceptional work in visibility management, crisis communication, and proactive stakeholder engagement.

Several other Commands, Units and officers were honoured for distinguished service in areas such as leadership, innovation, discipline, community relations, anti-smuggling operations and trade facilitation. The recognitions underscored the diverse and critical roles played across formations in advancing the Service’s modernisation drive.

The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments from officers to deepen professionalism, foster unity and sustain the momentum of reforms as the Nigeria Customs Service prepares for the year ahead.

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the National Assembly, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Federal Government to immediately review and reject the nomination of Ambassador Ayodele Oke from Oyo State as a non-career ambassador.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had requested Senate confirmation of three non-career ambassadorial nominees: Kayode Are of Ogun State, Aminu Dalhatu of Jigawa State and Ayodele Oke of Oyo State. The request follows nearly two years after the recall of all Nigerian ambassadors in September 2023.

CISLAC expressed deep concern that Ambassador Oke, who was declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside his wife for serious corruption allegations, has been nominated for such a sensitive diplomatic position.

Ambassador Oke, a former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), was declared wanted after failing to appear before the court to answer fraud charges. On February 7, 2019, Justice Chukwujeku Aneke of the Federal High Court in Lagos issued an arrest warrant for him and his wife following an application by EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo.

The couple is linked to the discovery of 43,449,947 dollars, 27,800 pounds and 23,218,000 naira found in an apartment on Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, in April 2017.

Speaking on the development, the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani, described the nomination as troubling, embarrassing and a severe dent on Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability and anti-corruption.

He stated that the nomination could undermine the work of anti-corruption agencies. According to him, when individuals under investigation are cleared for political appointments, it weakens the efforts of the EFCC, ICPC and other anti-corruption institutions. He stressed that government must not be seen to be undermining its own agencies, which work tirelessly to ensure that persons involved in corruption and unethical conduct are held accountable and are not rewarded with public office.

Rafsanjani added: “At a time when Nigeria is trying to rebuild its global reputation and strengthen diplomatic ties, appointing someone with an active corruption case and an outstanding arrest warrant is disturbing and totally unacceptable. This nomination sends a wrong signal to the international community that Nigeria rewards impunity rather than upholding the rule of law.”

He continued: “Ambassadorial appointments are strategic. They represent Nigeria’s image, values and credibility abroad. Appointing an individual declared wanted for alleged money laundering and criminal breach of trust undermines the fight against corruption and embarrasses the nation diplomatically.”

He called on the National Assembly to rise to the occasion, saying: “We urge the Senate to demonstrate institutional integrity by rejecting this nomination. The DSS and other security agencies must clarify how an individual on a watchlist passed security vetting. Nigeria cannot afford to elevate persons with unresolved criminal allegations to sensitive diplomatic posts.”

He further emphasized that the National Assembly has a responsibility to protect the sanctity of public office by ensuring that individuals linked to corruption, terrorism or other serious allegations are not considered for appointment and do not pass legislative screening.

CISLAC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency and good governance, urging President Tinubu to reconsider the nomination in the interest of Nigeria’s global reputation.

Rafsanjani concluded: “Nigeria must not send envoys who carry the burden of unresolved corruption allegations. Our foreign missions must reflect the highest standards of integrity.” Signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani Executive Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)/ Transparency International Nigeria

On 27 November 2025, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha (GSS), officially flagged off Exercise OMI AILEWU 2025 onboard the Nigerian Navy Ship KADA. The exercise, aimed at combating major maritime security threats, including oil theft, illegal fishing, arms smuggling, human and drug trafficking, and attacks on critical national infrastructure, is within the Western Maritime corridor of Nigeria.

The Officer in Tactical Command (OTC), Captain LD Deyin, in his exercise overview, highlighted that OMI AILEWU 2025 is not just a routine training drill but a strategic operation which is in line with the mission of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, which is to maintain an intelligence- and technology-driven naval presence that can detect, deter, disrupt, and deny criminal activities across the Western Naval Command’s maritime area of responsibility. He also emphasized that the exercise would feature 4 Naval Ships (NNS IKOGOSI, GURARA, OLOIBIRI, and MAMBILA), 2 helicopters, 2 Tactical Drones, and the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (NNSBS) element. The exercise would also test fleet manoeuvres, communication procedures, maritime interdiction drills, and overall coordination at sea.

Rear Admiral AA Mustpha, in these remarks, highlighted the strategic importance of the maritime domain to Nigeria’s economy, security, and the developing Blue Economy while flagging off Exercise OMI AILEWU. He emphasized that training is the best welfare for personnel, aligning with the CNS’s directive that the Navy must train and operate seamlessly to ensure safe waters for commerce and the Blue Economy.

The FOC urged participants to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and teamwork, noting that lessons learned during the exercise will prepare them for real-world operations. He appreciated the presence of invited guests and officially flagged off the exercise, wishing all participants a safe and successful operation.

The ceremony concluded with a group photograph, capturing the Special Guest of Honour, participating officers, and the ship’s crew to signify the formal start of the exercise.