Author: Dodo Elias Denen

In a bold demonstration of renewed strategic resolve to stamp out insurgency and restore enduring peace to the North East, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal, today 6 November 2025, embarked on his maiden operational visit to the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) Theatre, Maiduguri, Borno State.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the visit, in line with the directive of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, underscores the Nigerian Army’s reinvigorated drive to consolidate on the gains made in the counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations towards total annihilation of terrorists in the NE.

Addressing troops at the Maimalari Military Cantonment, Lieutenant General Shaibu charged the trooos to sustain relentless pressure on the remnants of insurgents until total victory is achieved. He emphasized the imperative of decisively dealing with the insurgents to ensure normalcy in the region, while creating enabling atmosphere for socio-economic recovery and normalcy across the North East.

The Army Chief, who was on ground to assess the operational readiness of formations and units, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to providing the necessary platforms, logistics and welfare incentives to enhance troop morale and combat efficiency. He pledged to uphold and strengthen the Soldier-First concept of his predecessor, ensuring the welfare of troops remain too priority, as he emphasized fairness, justice, professionalism and the strategic deployment of competent personnel to mission-critical assignments.

According to him, “The Nigerian Army under my command will leave no stone unturned, we will pursue this fight with renewed energy, clear focus and absolute dedication to end this menace once and for all.” he averred.

The COAS also paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi, CFR, where he solicited continued prayers, intelligence support and cooperation from traditional institutions and citizens to complement ongoing military operations. He further assured the royal father of the Army’s capability and resolve to restore enduring peace and stability across Borno State and the wider North East corridor.

In his remarks, the Shehu of Borno commended the Nigerian Army for its gallantry, sacrifices, and humanitarian interventions, particularly during the flooding incidents, which he noted, the humanitarian services rendered can never be forgotten by the people. He lauded the Army’s efforts in restoring normalcy in the state, noting that no single Local Government Area in the state is presently under the control of terrorist elements. The monarch further pledged continued support through credible intelligence sharing and moral backing to ensure the total defeat of insurgency.

Highlights of the visit included an operational briefing at the Theatre Command Headquarters, commissioning of the Heroes Transit Accommodation at Maimalari Cantonment, groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 4 x 30-family Corporal and Below quarters, inspection of combat platforms and visits to wounded-in-action personnel at the 7 Division Military Hospital and Services, as well as frontline troops deployed at Bama and adjoining sectors.

The visit marks a new phase in the Nigerian Army’s counterinsurgency posture, reflecting the COAS’s determination to recalibrate operational strategies and strengthen the force’s combat effectiveness towards restoring peace and stability in the region.

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has continued to deepen its commitment to youth innovation and entrepreneurship with Hackaholics 6.0, its flagship campus ideathon. This year, the Hackaholics train has toured four Nigeria cities from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, to the University of Ibadan (UI) and Purple Academy, Lagos, bringing together some of the brightest young minds in Sub-Saharan Africa to create transformative solutions to real-world problems.

With over 3,000 entries submitted so far, at each location, hundreds of students and young entrepreneurs gathered to receive industry-led masterclasses, and develop ideas aimed at solving challenges in the ecosystem. For four days in each location, participants were immersed in the full Hackaholics experience, from ideation to mentorship to pitch readiness, culminating in high-energy final pitches where the best ideas emerged. In every location, three Ideathon winning teams; including one women-led group and two Hackathon teams walked away with invitations to compete at the Hackaholics 6.0 Grand Finale. These teams now stand a chance to scale their solutions with the backing of Wema Bank’s innovation ecosystem.

Speaking on the initiative, MD/CEO Wema Bank, Plc, Moruf Oseni, said, “Hackaholics has always been about more than technology. It is about empowering young people to think differently, create boldly, and contribute solutions that can move our industry and nation forward. The level of talent and creativity we have witnessed so far further reinforces why we continue to invest in this programme. The innovative ideas and solutions coming out of the participants have the power to shape the future of financial services and beyond, and we are excited to see them come to life.”

Since its launch in 2019, Hackaholics has grown into a cornerstone of youth engagement and innovation in Nigeria. With over 12,000 applicants from 15 schools, and a total of over $300,000 disbursed in funding, including ₦75 million awarded to women-led teams between 2023 and 2024, the program has consistently delivered on its mission to create a vibrant ecosystem where students, innovators, and early-stage founders can collaborate, learn, and grow while building long-term relationships with Wema Bank.

As the Hackaholics 6.0 train continues its journey to more cities before the Grand Finale, Wema Bank remains committed to empowering the next generation of Nigerian innovators. Students and young entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit https://hackaholics.wemabank.com/ for more information on how to participate and submit their entries.

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, hosted another enlightening edition of the UBA Business Series, bringing together some of Africa’s most dynamic digital entrepreneurs and influencers to discuss the secrets behind building impactful online communities.

This edition of the Business Series, which had the theme, “Content that Converts: Building Influence and Driving Growth Through Strategic Marketing,” was held at the Tony Elumelu Amphitheatre in UBA Head Office, Marina, Lagos on Thursday.

The very engaging session, shed light on how authenticity, consistency, and passion remain true cornerstones of success in the ever-evolving digital landscape, while the content creators shared first-hand experiences from their journeys across diverse industries and markets.

UBA’s Group Head, Digital Banking, Kayode Olubiyi, who welcomed participants and the panellists to the session, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs across Africa through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives such as the Business Series.

He emphasised that the quarterly event continues to serve as vital avenues for supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, equipping individuals with practical insights to grow their brands and businesses in a competitive digital economy.

In his keynote address, the Managing Director/CEO at Nitro 121, Dr. Lampe Omoyele, who said that “You can create something out of what appears to be nothing,” gave insight on key trends to develop content that creates Impact.

He noted that content creation should go beyond aesthetics or trends to focus on value, purpose, and agility as he pointed out that creators who aim to make a difference must develop a clear personal brand identity and remain consistent in delivering messages that resonate with their audience.

The panel session featured an impressive line-up of digital entrepreneurs and content creators, including Digital Creator and Actor, Elozonam Ogbolu; Digital Health Educator, Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor); Kenyan Actress and Media Entrepreneur, Catherine Kamau; Content Creator, Nasiru Lawal (Nasboi) and Digital Influencer, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, who was also the moderator of the event.

Growth is very important, says Nasiru Lawal. “For the younger creators here, my best advice is this: please prioritise your growth. As a creator, the moment you become famous, you no longer move at your own pace; you move at the people’s pace. It is therefore important to ensure you grow consistently and then overtime, the recognition and the money begins to roll in.”

Elozonam Ogbolu who agreed with Lawal, had this to say: “Content creators have to engage their audience with proper storytelling, because brands are always out to carefully choose their creators. For the brands, you must pick your influencer or ambassador very deliberately and work together over time to grow. That is when you will see a proper return on investment.

In his submission, Chinonso Egemba, said, “If you’re building a business or doing content creation, treat content creation as a business. When you treat it as a business, it needs proper structure. Otherwise, it won’t last. If you don’t put structure in place, you’ll end up responsible for everything, and that leads to burnout. You have to build structure, because if you want longevity, structure is very essential.

For Catherine Kamau, it is important for content creators to find a balance and stay close to their community. “What I realized is I have a community that keeps me grounded, and that’s family. When you get famous, you tend to forget where you come from, you know, social media is an illusion and you start assuming that it is your real family until bad things happen to you. So please remember the real people in your life, because fame can get to your head, but those are not the people who are going to have your back when things go south.”

The creators while sharing their diverse experiences, they collectively emphasized that building a personal brand should take precedence over chasing financial gain. They also underscored the importance of originality, urging young creators to find their unique niche rather than replicating what others have done.

UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended panellists for taking time to share their useful insights at the event, took time to celebrate the UBA Management for organising conversations like this which according to her, ‘remain impactful and will impact not just the individual customers, but also the economies at large.”

United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees group wide and serving over 45 million customers globally. Operating in twenty African countries and the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.

The Nigeria Police Force has announced that Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Benjamin Okolo, fdc, has officially assumed duty as the Supervisory Officer in charge of all police personnel deployed for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship Election.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, DIG Okolo, who represented the Inspector General of Police during preparatory engagements in the state, formally took over the role on Thursday, November 6, 2025. His appointment is part of the strategic deployment approved by the Inspector General of Police to guarantee a peaceful, credible, and professionally coordinated election.

DIG Okolo, alongside DIG Yakubu Kwazhi, mni, the Deputy Inspector General in charge of Operations, had earlier represented the IGP during the signing of the Peace Accord by political candidates and other key stakeholders’ meetings. He will oversee the overall operational framework, coordinate field deployments, and ensure strict adherence to the Force’s Rules of Engagement throughout the election period.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains fully committed to protecting the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring the safety of all citizens, and upholding the law in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities,” the statement read.

Residents of Anambra State were also urged to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security personnel, and avoid any actions capable of disrupting the electoral process.

Assisting DIG Okolo in coordinating the election security operations are AIG Akoh Benedict Gabriel; Commissioner of Police for the Anambra Governorship Election, CP Abayomi Shogunle, PhD, fsi; Commissioners of Police deployed to the 21 Local Government Areas; and other senior officers.

Members of the public can reach DIG Benjamin Okolo directly via 0803 329 9629 for election-related security matters.

The Chairperson of the African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF), Ms. Ummahani Amin, has called for greater adoption of Islamic finance as a sustainable means of bridging Africa’s vast infrastructure financing gap, currently estimated between $130 billion and $170 billion annually.

Speaking at the 7th edition of the African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF) 2025 in Lagos, organised by Metropolitan Law Firm and Metropolitan Skills Ltd in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Amin said that despite its progress, Africa is yet to fully tap into the catalytic potential of Islamic finance for inclusive growth and development.

She noted that while global Islamic financial assets grew by 14.9% year-on-year to reach $3.88 trillion in 2024, Africa’s share remains marginal due to persistent challenges such as underdeveloped market infrastructure, low liquidity, and limited investor education.

“To enable Sukuk and other Islamic financial instruments to serve as true enablers of financial intermediation and macroeconomic stability, we must first dismantle the barriers that continue to stifle their growth,” Amin said.

Amin, who also serves as Managing Partner of Metropolitan Law Firm, emphasised the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping ethical finance through improved compliance automation and broader financial access. However, she cautioned that technological advancement must be guided by strong ethical principles to preserve public trust.

Highlighting the theme of this year’s conference, “Africa Emerging: A Prosperous and Inclusive Outlook,” she underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing as essential pathways to unlocking the continent’s inclusive prosperity.

As part of the conference’s youth empowerment initiative, AICIF partnered with the SEC to host a startup pitch competition aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs.

ZannyTecture Recycling Company Limited won in the Social Impact category for transforming discarded tyres and PET bottles into eco-friendly materials.

BetaLife Health emerged winner in the Technology category for developing an AI-powered blood supply optimisation platform.

Amin also unveiled The Metropolitan Waqf, a new initiative designed to expand educational opportunities for marginalised communities, particularly in conflict-affected regions of Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, disclosed that Nigeria’s non-interest capital market has grown to over ₦1.6 trillion, reflecting expanding investor confidence and the success of recent regulatory reforms under the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025.

“The remarkable growth of the non-interest segment in Nigeria now valued at over ₦1.6 trillion demonstrates that when there is an enabling regulatory environment, the market responds with vigour,” Agama said.

He revealed that Nigeria’s sovereign Sukuk programme has raised more than ₦1.4 trillion through seven issuances since 2017, funding the construction and rehabilitation of 124 key roads spanning over 5,820 kilometres nationwide.

Agama also announced the planned issuance of a $500 million international Sukuk, describing it as the next major step in attracting ethical capital for infrastructure and economic development.

He noted that the growing acceptance of Islamic finance across Africa particularly in countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Senegal, and Ghana reflects the continent’s readiness to mainstream non-interest financial instruments.

The SEC DG commended Metropolitan Skills for its consistent role in promoting Islamic finance and revealed that key resolutions from the 2025 AICIF would contribute to shaping the Second Nigerian Capital Market Masterplan (2026–2035), as the first plan draws to a close this year.

Agama urged stakeholders to leverage Islamic finance as a tool for ethical investment, financial inclusion, and infrastructure renewal, stressing that:

“Prosperity without inclusion is not sustainable. Islamic finance offers us a pathway to both.”

The Managing Director of MetropolitanSkills Limited and Coordinator of the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF), Ms. Yinlaifa Edolo, has underscored the importance of inclusivity, indigenous solutions, and regulatory collaboration in advancing Islamic finance across Africa.

Speaking at the conference, Ms. Edolo explained that MetropolitanSkills Limited, a multidisciplinary service firm specializing in capacity building, human development, event management, procurement, and general contracting is the primary convener of the annual AICIF. The firm organizes the event in partnership with Metropolitan Law Firm, its sister organization.

According to her, this year’s edition marks a major milestone as it features, for the first time, a strategic collaboration with Nigeria’s apex capital market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). She described the partnership as a significant leap that brings a new level of credibility and depth to the conference.

“This year is a hallmark for us. For the first time in the history of AICIF, we’ve collaborated with a major institutional partner, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigeria. The SEC’s participation has been phenomenal, bringing the regulator’s perspective to what has always been a conversation about growth, equity, social impact, and inclusivity,” Edolo said.

She added that the SEC’s involvement aligns with its capital market master plan and demonstrates how Islamic finance principles can be integrated into broader financial sector reforms.

“The SEC has transformed what might have remained abstract policies into tangible actions you can see and almost feel. That’s why this collaboration means so much this year,” she stated.

Edolo also emphasized that inclusivity lies at the heart of Islamic finance, distinguishing it from conventional systems.

“By its very nature, Islamic finance is inclusive. It’s not discriminatory, it reaches everyone. Through instruments such as Zakat and Waqf, Islamic finance delivers social impact where conventional finance often falls short,” she explained.

However, she cautioned against framing Islamic and conventional finance as competitors, insisting that both can coexist harmoniously within the same financial ecosystem.

“It’s not about which one overtakes the other. The essence of inclusion is that everyone has a seat at the table. As long as there is space for both Islamic and conventional finance, people can freely choose what aligns with their conscience and beliefs,” she said.

Offering broader advice to financial and non-financial institutions alike, Ms. Edolo urged organizations to prioritize indigenous problem-solving over imported or generic models.

“Inclusivity is not just a slogan. When creating solutions whether products or services they must go beyond copy-and-paste approaches. Our challenges are unique, and only indigenous solutions can effectively address them,” she advised.

She concluded by encouraging financial institutions, particularly non-interest ones, to adapt Islamic financial tools in ways that directly respond to local realities and development needs.

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in partnership with Novarosta, proudly unveiled Oríkì, a world-class cultural and culinary experience designed to showcase Nigeria’s creative excellence and position the country as a global destination for cultural tourism, gastronomy, and creative economy investment.

The grand event, held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Eagle’s Square, Abuja, drew an extraordinary assembly of global partners, government dignitaries, chefs, investors, cultural ambassadors, and creative entrepreneurs from across Africa and the diaspora united under the theme: “When Culture Meets Cuisine, the World Connects.”

A CELEBRATION OF HERITAGE, IDENTITY, AND INNOVATION

Rooted in the timeless African art of praise poetry, Oríkì celebrates lineage, excellence, and the human spirit. While most renowned within Yoruba traditions, similar expressions like Aha Otuto (Igbo), Kirari (Hausa), and Eré (Itsekiri) reflect Nigeria’s shared cultural tapestry.

At the Eagle’s Square showcase, Oríkì came alive through a culinary performance of taste, rhythm, and heritage blending traditional poetry, live music, and haute Nigerian cuisine. The event featured regional food pavilions, fusion gastronomy, and creative reinterpretations of indigenous recipes, offering guests a multisensory journey through Nigeria’s culture of flavour.

THE MINISTER SPEAKS: CULINARY ART AS A BRIDGE OF UNITY

In her special address, the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, commended NIHOTOUR for its innovation in blending culture and cuisine as a soft-power tool for national unity and global engagement.

“Culinary art has the power to unite us beyond borders. Through food and culture, we discover our shared humanity, tell our stories, and connect with the world. Oríkì is a profound expression of who we are as Africans proud, creative, and united by heritage,” Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting NIHOTOUR’s efforts in advancing culinary diplomacy, creative enterprise, and cultural innovation as strategic pillars for Nigeria’s economic transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

A NEW ERA OF CULTURAL DIPLOMACY AND TOURISM INVESTMENT

In his remarks, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director-General of NIHOTOUR, described Oríkì as a bridge between heritage and opportunity, spotlighting the nation’s cultural assets as engines for investment and employment.

“Through Oríkì, we are transforming Nigeria’s living traditions into global experiences connecting art, culture, and cuisine to drive prosperity and pride. This is how we make hospitality a national export,” Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director-General, NIHOTOUR.

The event also marked the launch of NIHOTOUR’s Cultural Gastronomy Investment Series, a platform aimed at attracting culinary investors, creative industry partners, and international collaborators to scale Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism value chain.

ALIGNING WITH THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

The Oríkì Experience is a key milestone in Nigeria’s journey to diversify its economy through culture and creativity. It aligns with NIHOTOUR’s Mission 100 Vision, a transformative agenda to build Africa’s most dynamic tourism workforce and position Nigeria as a global leader in hospitality education, cultural promotion, and creative enterprise.

“Culture is the heartbeat of hospitality, and hospitality is the face of Nigeria. Oríkì reflects how both can unite a nation and inspire the world,” Novarosta Executive Team.

It will interest you to know that the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), established in 1987 under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, is Nigeria’s apex institution for professional training, certification, and research in the hospitality and tourism sector. Through strategic partnerships, NIHOTOUR is championing innovation in cultural education, culinary arts, and workforce development to project Nigeria’s heritage as a source of national pride and economic growth.

In recent weeks, Nigeria’s public discourse has been clouded by rumours of a foiled coup plot involving over a dozen military officers and a former governor allegedly “on the run.” While the Defence Headquarters has issued a characteristically ambiguous statement, the very persistence of these rumours—whether grounded in fact or fabricated through disinformation—demands urgent clarification: There is absolutely no place for military intervention in today’s Nigeria.

This isn’t mere rhetoric. It’s a data-driven conclusion supported by Nigeria’s painful history, the catastrophic failures of recent military takeovers across Africa’s Sahel region, and mounting evidence of foreign-backed disinformation campaigns designed to destabilise democratic governance across the continent. While it is true that the statement from the DHQ neither confirmed nor denied the reports, the speculation has continued to spread rapidly across social media—fuelled by conspiracy theories, propaganda, and coordinated disinformation. Yet, amid the noise, one truth must be re-emphasised and declared without ambiguity: There is no place for a coup or military junta in today’s Nigeria.

No grievance, however genuine, justifies a return to military rule. Nigeria’s democracy may be imperfect, but it remains the only framework capable of reforming itself without destroying the nation. We have already paid too high a price for the lessons of authoritarianism. The mere imagination of another coup is not only reckless but profoundly dangerous for a country still healing from decades of military misadventure.

Between 1966 and 1999, Nigeria endured six successful coups and several failed attempts. The first, in January 1966, plunged the country into chaos, triggering a civil war that claimed over a million lives and left deep ethnic and regional scars that still shape our politics today. Those years of military interregnum—29 in total—brought suspended constitutions, curtailed freedoms, and economic mismanagement that impoverished generations.

By 1998, Nigeria’s per capita income had declined by nearly 40 per cent from its 1980 levels, inflation had soared, and international sanctions had rendered the nation a pariah. Between 1960 and 1999, Nigeria earned more than $350 billion from oil exports, yet emerged with decrepit infrastructure, foreign debt exceeding $30 billion, and rampant poverty. Transparency International later estimated that at least $5 billion was stolen under one military regime alone.
We cannot forget those years. Military rule did not save Nigeria—it nearly destroyed her.

Since 1999, despite setbacks, democracy has delivered measurable progress. Nigeria has experienced seven consecutive elections and four peaceful transfers of power between parties—unprecedented in our history. Our economy has grown from $46 billion in 1999 to over $440 billion today, making Nigeria one of Africa’s largest economies. Freedom of expression and civic activism have flourished. The media is freer than ever, and civil society continues to shape national debate. These gains, however modest, are the fruits of civilian rule.

Contrast this with recent experiences in Africa’s Sahel region, where coups have been romanticised as patriotic revolutions. In Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, soldiers promised stability but delivered chaos. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) reports that violent incidents in Mali have increased by more than 150 per cent since the 2021 coup. Burkina Faso recorded over 8,000 conflict-related deaths in 2023—its bloodiest year on record. Niger, once a model of Western partnership, now faces sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and growing insecurity.

Far from restoring order, military juntas have exacerbated corruption, restricted freedoms, and weaponised propaganda to conceal their failures. Transparency International’s indices confirm that corruption perceptions have deteriorated across all junta-led states. Freedom House now ranks every coup-affected nation as “Not Free.” The message is unmistakable: military rule breeds repression and decline, not progress.

Equally alarming is the rise of disinformation designed to destabilise democracies like Nigeria’s. Research by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) and EU DisinfoLab has uncovered coordinated online campaigns—some linked to foreign actors—spreading pro-coup sentiment across West Africa. These networks exploit legitimate frustrations over insecurity and poverty to romanticise military rule and sow distrust in civilian institutions.

This is not patriotism; it is manipulation. Every Nigerian who forwards unverified rumours of a coup or glorifies soldiers as saviours is, knowingly or not, amplifying the work of those who wish to fracture our democracy from within.

Let us be clear: democracy is not perfect. Citizens are frustrated by corruption, unemployment, and governance failures. However, the answer lies in deeper reform, not a return to authoritarianism. Democracy allows us to protest, vote, speak, and litigate. Military rule silences all of that. The difference between democracy and dictatorship is not perfection—it is the presence of choice.

Even now, Nigeria’s institutions continue to evolve. The 2022 Electoral Act has improved transparency and electoral integrity. The Freedom of Information Act empowers journalists to demand accountability. The judiciary, although imperfect, is increasingly asserting its independence. These are steps forward—achievements that would vanish overnight under a military junta.

Nigeria’s Armed Forces have repeatedly affirmed their loyalty to the Constitution. That commitment must be protected and celebrated. Civil society, the media, and citizens must also remain vigilant, resisting any attempt—real or imagined—to drag Nigeria back to the dark era of decrees and fear.

In today’s interconnected world, a coup would not only destroy Nigeria’s fragile stability but also trigger economic collapse, diplomatic isolation, and social unrest. The Sahel’s tragedies are warning enough: the gun cannot build what only governance can.

Nigeria’s future lies not in the barrel of a gun but in the ballot box, in civic participation, and in accountable leadership. The path of democracy is hard, but it is the only one that leads forward. For all our imperfections, democracy gives us hope, adaptability, and voice. Military rule silences all three.

And for that reason alone, there is—and must forever be—no place for a coup in today’s Nigeria.

Ernest Omoarelojie is the Director of Media and Communications for Hope Alive Initiative, a pro-good-governance advocate in Nigeria

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in the fight against illicit trade, while promoting seamless trade facilitation and regional economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

CGC Adeniyi made this known on Monday, 3 November 2025, during a high-level visit to the Commissioner-General of the Customs Division of GRA, Brigadier General Glover Annan, at the Authority’s Headquarters in Accra, Ghana.

During the meeting, both agencies underscored the importance of intelligence sharing, harmonised border procedures, and joint enforcement strategies as critical tools to curb transnational crimes and enhance legitimate trade between the two West African nations.

Speaking during the engagement, the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the GRA, welcomed the Nigerian delegation and expressed Ghana’s readiness to strengthen operational ties with the Nigeria Customs Service.

“Our nations are united not just by history and culture but also by a shared vision to strengthen customs operations. The Nigeria Customs Service has continued to inspire our reforms and innovation in Ghana, and we see great opportunities in renewing our collaboration,” Brig.-Gen. Annan said.

He also commended the NCS for championing the Customs-Partnership for African Cooperation in Trade (C-PACT) initiative, developed in collaboration with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and supported by the World Customs Organisation (WCO). He noted that the upcoming C-PACT Conference, scheduled to take place in Abuja from November 17 to 19, 2025, will provide a continental platform for Customs administrations to explore new frameworks for transparency, lawful trade, and sustainable economic growth.

In his response, CGC Adeniyi emphasised that criminal networks were exploiting existing operational gaps between Customs administrations across Africa to facilitate illicit trade, including the smuggling of dangerous substances and contraband goods. He emphasised that enhanced cooperation was crucial to counter these threats and protect regional economies.

“We must bridge the gaps between our administrations because these are the same weaknesses that transnational criminals exploit. The more we work together, exchanging intelligence and building capacity, the stronger we will be against these syndicates,” the CGC said.

He recalled that Nigeria and Ghana had signed a memorandum of understanding on Customs cooperation in 2001 and suggested that both countries review and update the document to reflect contemporary realities and new opportunities under the AfCFTA.

“It would be my wish that we take a second look at that agreement and breathe new life into it. We can identify new areas of collaboration that align with today’s challenges and the future we envision for African trade,” he stated.

CGC Adeniyi further highlighted that his visit aimed to seek the GRA’s support for the forthcoming C-PACT Conference, as well as explore joint strategies to enhance intra-African trade and economic prosperity.

“Our mission is to strengthen the role of Customs as a major promoter of AfCFTA. We want to increase the volume of trade within Africa and ensure that trade becomes a true driver of growth and prosperity for our people,” he said.

The engagement between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Ghana Customs is expected to lay the groundwork for a renewed bilateral framework focused on intelligence-led enforcement, coordinated border management, and trade modernisation across the sub-region.

The Nigerian Navy has appointed Rear Admiral Suleiman Dantsoho Ibrahim as the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command (CNC), Yenagoa, following the formal handover from Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya.

The ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Command Headquarters, marked a smooth transition of leadership within one of the Navy’s most strategic operational zones.

In his remarks, Rear Admiral Ibrahim expressed gratitude to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to consolidate the gains recorded in maritime security and operational efficiency.

“It is a great honour to assume command of the Central Naval Command. I fully appreciate the strategic importance of this command to Nigeria’s maritime safety and economic prosperity. I assure the Navy and our nation that I will uphold this trust with utmost dedication,” he said.

Rear Admiral Ibrahim emphasized his resolve to strengthen inter-agency cooperation to combat crimes such as crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and piracy. He also pledged to prioritize personnel welfare and professional development under his leadership.

A seasoned naval officer and accomplished administrator, Rear Admiral Suleiman Dantsoho Ibrahim brings over three decades of professional service marked by strategic leadership, operational depth, and academic distinction.

Born on September 9, 1973, in Ondo State, and originally from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, he began his education at Command Children School, Zaria, before proceeding to the Nigerian Military School, Zaria.

He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) on August 17, 1990, as a member of the 42 Regular Course, and was commissioned Sub-Lieutenant on September 16, 1995. His steady progression through the ranks culminated in his elevation to Rear Admiral on August 17, 2023.

Rear Admiral Ibrahim holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Chemistry from the NDA, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and a Diploma in Intelligence.

He also earned two master’s degrees: M.Sc. in Security and Strategic Studies, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna (2017), and M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering (Emergency Response, Hazard Prevention, and Disaster Management), IRGIB African University, Benin Republic (2020).

His professional development includes several prestigious local and international courses such as: Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course, NNS QUORRA (1995), Young Officers’ Intelligence Course, Nigerian Navy Intelligence School, Apapa (2002), Junior and Senior Staff Courses, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (2002 & 2007), Officers Long Course (Communications), Indian Naval Ship Venduruthy, India (2004–2005), National Defence Course 25, National Defence College, Abuja (2016), National Security and Country Resilience Course, Israel (2022), Crude Oil Custody and Transfer Course, Dubai, UAE (2022).

Over the years, Rear Admiral Ibrahim has served in various command, instructional, and staff capacities across naval formations and defence institutions. His notable appointments include: Flag Lieutenant, Naval Training Command (1999), Chief Instructor, Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Onne (2011), Command Intelligence Officer, Eastern Naval Command, Calabar (2013), Assistant Director, Security, Defence Intelligence Agency, Abuja (2014), Assistant Director, Training (TOPS Branch), Naval Headquarters (2017), Director, Veterans Affairs, Naval Headquarters (2023), Director, Physical Training and Sports, Naval Headquarters (2024).

His command appointments include: Commanding Officer, NNS OBULA (2015), Commanding Officer, Forward Operations Base, FORMOSO (2019), Commander, Naval Unit, Abuja (2021), Commander, NNS PATHFINDER (2022), Chief Staff Officer, Western Naval Command (2024–2025).

Rear Admiral Ibrahim’s service is decorated with several honours and affiliations, including: Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), Fellow, Defence College (fdc), Pass Staff Course (psc), Member, Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM), Member, Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), Fellow, International Institute of Professional Security (FIIPS), Member, Royal Institute of Navigation (MRIN), Justice of the Peace (JP)

Beyond the uniform, Rear Admiral Ibrahim is known for his passion for sports and intellectual pursuits. He is an avid polo player and captain of the Nigerian Navy Polo Team. His hobbies include golf, swimming, reading biographies, and traveling. He also enjoys studying human behavior and nature, reflecting his curiosity and disciplined lifestyle.

He is happily married and blessed with children.

In his farewell address, the outgoing FOC, Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya, who assumed command in October 2024, described his tenure as “challenging yet fulfilling.” He noted that under his watch, the Command achieved significant milestones in curbing maritime crime, enhancing fleet readiness, and improving personnel welfare.

“I am confident that Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim will consolidate on our gains and lead the Command to greater heights,” Gaya said.

The transition marks another milestone in the Navy’s effort to sustain maritime security and safeguard Nigeria’s vast maritime domain a mission Rear Admiral Ibrahim is poised to advance with renewed energy and strategic focus.