Category: Government

  • International Delegations Join Forces With Nigerian Police Commission To Combat Human Rights Abuses

    International Delegations Join Forces With Nigerian Police Commission To Combat Human Rights Abuses

    In a promising show of global collaboration, two distinguished delegations from the United States of America and the United Kingdom paid a courtesy visit to the Corporate Headquarters of the Police Service Commission (PSC) in Jabi, Abuja.

    The delegations were warmly received today by the Chairman of the Commission, and retired Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase.

    Highlighting their commitment to fostering positive change, the delegations seized the opportunity to explore the Commission’s recently established Compliance Monitoring Unit (CMU).

    This innovative platform serves as a tracking mechanism for public complaints against active Nigeria Police Officers, with the shared objective of significantly reducing instances of human rights abuses by law enforcement.

    The leader of the United States delegation, Jason A. Smith, Director of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, emphasized the collaborative nature of their mission.

    Smith expressed the United States’ strong dedication to enhancing the rule of law, particularly within Nigeria’s law enforcement sector. The establishment of the CMU was lauded as a pivotal step in bolstering transparency and accountability.

    From the United Kingdom, Chris Grimson, representing the National Crime Agency’s Anti-Kidnap and Extortion Unit (AKEU), extended a firm hand of partnership. Grimson shared his commitment to strengthening Nigerian law enforcement by offering specialized training for the personnel of the Nigeria Police.

    He highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and effective investigation techniques as crucial tools in fostering cooperation between the Police and other security agencies within the nation.

    During the meeting, Chairman Dr. Solomon Arase articulated the aspirations of the Nigerian people for a responsible Police Force that respects the fundamental human rights of all citizens.

    Recognizing the urgent need to address concerns related to human rights abuses, he shared the rationale behind the establishment of the Compliance Monitoring Unit.

    This unit is geared towards safeguarding citizens’ rights and holding accountable those officers who engage in misconduct.

    Dr. Arase firmly conveyed the unity between the Commission’s leadership and the Police force in their unwavering commitment to eradicating human rights abuses within the country.

    He assured the visiting delegations that there would be no conflicts between the Commission and the Police Management regarding the operations of the CMU.

    The Commission Chairman also underlined his stance against pre-trial detentions by the Police, emphasizing that the Commission would no longer tolerate detentions beyond the legal limits.

    He further announced that officers with pending human rights cases would not be eligible for promotions or postings, unless their cases were thoroughly investigated and resolved by the Police Complaints Unit.

    As the Compliance Monitoring Unit takes shape, Arase appealed for support in expanding the system’s capabilities to effectively track complaints against the Police. The Commission anticipates a surge in reported incidents, underscoring the necessity for advanced systems.

    This landmark collaboration between the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Police Service Commission signifies a powerful collective effort to reshape Nigeria’s law enforcement landscape, ensuring accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights.

    The shared commitment to eradicating human rights abuses is poised to create a lasting impact, fostering a stronger partnership between national and international stakeholders striving for justice and equality.

  • NPF: CRAN Applauds IGP For Reappointing ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi As Spokesperson

    NPF: CRAN Applauds IGP For Reappointing ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi As Spokesperson


    The Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) has extended its commendation to the acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for the reappointment of the recently promoted Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, as the official spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force.

    Within CRAN, ACP Adejobi’s performance in enhancing the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force has been exceptional.

    His contributions have been evident not only at the state level, including his commendable service as the public relations officer for the commands in Lagos and Ogun states, but also on a broader scale.

    CRAN is confident that ACP Adejobi’s continued role as the voice of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will lead to stronger collaboration with the public.

    This reappointment is anticipated to invigorate discipline among police personnel and further solidify the principles of modern policing in a democratic society.

    The Inspector-General of Police has charged Mr. Adejobi with the task of building upon his accomplishments, particularly in establishing citizen-centered public relations through media engagement and specialized community interactions.

    According to CRAN “It is our conviction that, leveraging his experience, expertise, and training, he holds the potential to contribute significantly to fostering a more amicable relationship between law enforcement and the public.
    In light of this, we once again express our appreciation to the IGP and extend our congratulations to the reappointed Police Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.”

    The Association urge him to persist in his dedication to serving our beloved nation, Nigeria, with utmost commitment.

  • Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    The Nigerian Army has debunked recent claims circulating in the media regarding the voluntary discharge of 25 soldiers.

    The army’s statement aims to address the misrepresentation and unfounded insinuations that have caused unwarranted concern within the public sphere.

    In response to an article published by Sahara Reporters, an online media outlet, the Nigerian Army has clarified that the voluntary discharge or retirement of soldiers is a routine and well-defined process within the organization. The article had suggested a link between the soldiers’ resignations and alleged corruption within the army, a claim the military vehemently denies.

    The Nigerian Army’s statement emphasized that the soldiers’ voluntary discharge was a result of their personal decisions and compliance with established regulations.

    The army reinforced that it is not a conscript force and that individuals join voluntarily, subject to the terms and conditions stipulated in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen (Revised) 2017.

    This includes the right for personnel to apply for voluntary discharge or retirement when they deem it appropriate and meet the necessary criteria.

    Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, who currently leads the Nigerian Army, reiterated the organization’s commitment to maintaining a supportive and conducive work environment for its personnel.

    The statement highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities, timely disbursement of operational allowances, such as the recently increased Ration Cash Allowance, extensive infrastructure development, and considerable investment in the medical well-being of wounded soldiers.

    Also, the Nigerian Army emphasized its dedication to troops’ welfare, evident in the implementation of a comprehensive plan for troop rotation from the frontline.

    This strategic approach helps overcome issues of overstay and battle fatigue, ultimately contributing to the troops’ overall well-being and effectiveness.

    Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, underlined the importance of public trust and accountability.

    He affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to uphold integrity, professionalism, and transparency in all operations. Nwachukwu cautioned against the media manipulation that could undermine the morale and fighting spirit of the dedicated and patriotic troops who serve the nation.

    The general public is urged to disregard the misleading insinuations presented in the aforementioned publication, as the claims lack substantive evidence. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation’s security, while also ensuring the welfare and motivation of its personnel.

  • IGP Unveils Standard Operating Procedure For The Safe Schools In Nigeria Program

    IGP Unveils Standard Operating Procedure For The Safe Schools In Nigeria Program

    Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has unveiled the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) compendium designed for the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) and orchestrated a workshop centered around the Safe Schools Initiative.

    The event took place during the week, at the Abuja Continental Hotel located in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

    This development follows the recent establishment of the Schools Protection Squad, an elite specialized unit responsible for safeguarding educational institutions nationwide.

    The SOP manual is an all-encompassing document that furnishes precise directives to ensure the seamless functionality of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS).

    It delineates the organizational architecture of the unit, outlines protocols for deployment, and elucidates the ethical standards governing the conduct of officers within the division.

    It also spell out procedures for synergistic operations with other security agencies, aiming to foster a unified strategy in addressing potential threats targeting schools and educational establishments.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) outlined various strategies that the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) will employ to fulfill the objectives of the School Protection Squad.

    These strategies encompass generating information and developing intelligence, fostering community policing partnerships, promoting cooperation between the police and the public, collaborating with other agencies, ensuring security and administration for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), deploying logistical resources, providing humanitarian services, and delivering training to school managers, teachers, and community members on their roles during emergencies.

    The IGP emphasized that the initial phase of this initiative will focus on 18 pilot states that are deemed more vulnerable, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    He assured that the Police Force will diligently assume the responsibility of safeguarding educational institutions from potential threats and dangers.

    He also called upon all stakeholders to join forces in supporting the Federal Government, the Police, and other partners to successfully implement this initiative.

  • Customs Confiscate 2,940 Parcels Of Cannabis Sativa

    Customs Confiscate 2,940 Parcels Of Cannabis Sativa


    A Cannabis Sativa laden boat has been intercepted by the Customs Operatives attached to the Ogun II Area Command.

    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi confirmed the development while underscoring the severe ramifications of unlawful imports, specifically focusing on drugs, on the younger generation.

    He accentuated its role as a substantial menace to public well-being, security, societal advancement, and economic prosperity.

    At an event displaying the latest confiscations of suspected Cannabis Sativa at the Ogun II Area Command on August 7th, 2023, the Acting CGC commended the unwavering dedication of customs officers in thwarting the smuggling of cannabis sativa within Zone A.

    “We are pleased to announce the recent achievements and unwavering dedication of our officers in combating the smuggling of cannabis sativa within Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service,” said Adeniyi.

    The seizures’ particulars encompass the halting of 14,015 packages of Cannabis Sativa by agents of FOU Zone A. The combined mass of the confiscated narcotics tallied up to 7,728 kilograms, equating to a Duty Paid Value of NGN 618,240,000.

    These items were reclaimed from a watercraft in the waterways near the areas of Ajah and Ijebu-ode. Three individuals implicated in the contraband operation were transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for extended scrutiny.

    The Acting CGC also conveyed that collaborative patrol units and border enforcement operatives from sector 2 accomplished comparable confiscations.

    “On August 3rd, 2023, at approximately 0400hrs, a joint patrol team comprising of officers from the Western Marine Command intercepted a wooden boat containing two Yamaha outboard engines (40 Horsepower) and 103 sacks of what appeared to be Cannabis Sativa.

    The substance’s overall mass measured 3,811 kilograms, and it held a Duty Paid Value equivalent to NGN 32,193,000.

    He also revealed a separate confiscation incident that took place at 0315hrs on August 7th, 2023. Valuable intelligence led to the uncovering of 2,940 packages of Cannabis Sativa.

    These parcels had been discreetly stashed amidst a shipment of pineapple fruits, concealed within an unregistered white Fiat bus on Sokoto/Ijoun Road, located in the Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    The apprehended haul included the truck loaded with cannabis sativa, along with the detention of the two suspects associated with the situation.

    In regards to the arrests conducted in relation to these seizures, Adeniyi stated.

    “Two suspects, Mr. Akeem Olatunde – a driver, and Mr. Abdul Nurudeen Adedeji – a passenger, have been apprehended and are currently in custody pending further investigation.”

    He provided reassurance to the population that the service remains unwavering in fulfilling its legal obligations.

    “The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in delivering on its statutory mandates and protecting our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.

    “We assure the public that details of our investigations will be made available to ensure transparency and accountability”, he concluded.

  • IGP Kayode Egbetokun Reappointed ACP Muyiwa Adejobi As FPRO

    IGP Kayode Egbetokun Reappointed ACP Muyiwa Adejobi As FPRO


    After ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, was recently promoted to the position of Assistant Commissioner of Police, the Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has once again designated him as the Force Public Relations Officer.

    The decision stemmed from a recent official communication marked with reference number TH.5361/FS/FHQ/ABJ/V.4/649, dated August 8, 2023, issued by the office of the Force Secretary.

    ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi is a graduate of the distinguished University of Ibadan, where he pursued a Combined Honours degree in Archaeology and Geography.

    He holds a Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from the same institution.

    His professional journey includes serving as the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the Ogun State Command from 2008 to 2016.

    He then assumed the role of PPRO at Zone 2 Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos, in 2016. From September 2020 to August 2021, he held the position of PPRO at the Lagos State Police Command.

    Furthermore, in 2021, he served as the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
    Most recently, he fulfilled the role of Force Public Relations Officer before his current reappointment.

    ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi is affiliated with numerous professional bodies and associations, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the Pointman Leadership Institute in the USA, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in the USA, and the Institute of Corporate Administration in Nigeria, among others.

    The Inspector-General of Police has tasked this senior officer with building upon his accomplishments, particularly in the realm of citizen-oriented public relations, achieved through engagement with the media and various specialized community interactions.

  • Customs Boss Assures Excise Traders And FTZ Enterprises In Ogun State Of Strong Support For Business Growth

    Customs Boss Assures Excise Traders And FTZ Enterprises In Ogun State Of Strong Support For Business Growth


    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has conveyed his dedicated pledge to bolstering the success of stakeholders’ businesses.

    This affirmation took place during his visit to the Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service in Abeokuta, where he was on an introductory tour.

    Interacting with Excise Traders and Free Trade Zone Operators in Ogun State, the Acting CGC emphasized that their activities hold significant importance within the service’s agenda.

    According to him “In his words, “I have made it a deliberate policy to put your operations at the cornerstone of our activities”.

    “My understanding is that you are critical stakeholders for us, it is through your activities that we can report our own activities, and it is, therefore, in our interest that we do everything to ensure that your companies and businesses prosper”, he added.

    “It is not all the time that Customs Officers are overzealous in implementation of the law; most of the time, they keep in their mind the basic objectives behind these entities”, he noted.

    “It is the intention of the government through enterprises to boost foreign exchange for Nigeria and its economy, create jobs for Nigerians, and of course, to enhance Nigeria’s economic development, and this is why a number of concessions, a number of waivers have been granted to free zone operators.”

    The Customs Boss received congratulations from stakeholders regarding his appointment. Simultaneously, concerns about the operations of Free Trade Zones and factories under excise control were also brought up by the stakeholders.

    In reply, the Acting CGC disclosed the establishment of a Committee tasked with tackling these concerns.

    “I have set up a committee consisting of representatives of enterprises, The Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and Oil and Gas Authority, working with representatives from my Office to look into all the areas of concern”.

    While appreciating the Ag. CGC, for his visit, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shauibu, highlighted some of the Command’s achievements.

    “At our level, since we came in, we have brought in about 18 factories under excise control”, he said.

    The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs urged the command’s officers to grasp the significance of their operations and contributions to Nigeria’s economic progress.

    He concluded his visit by conducting a tour of the command’s facilities.

  • COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency

    COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency


    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has advocated the sustenance of utilization of emerging technologies for operational efficiency in the Nigerian Army (NA).

    The COAS stated this today Tuesday 8 August 2023, at the Army Headquarters during a paper presentation, titled “Emerging Technologies and Operational Efficiency: Implications for the Nigerian Army by 2035”, presented by participants of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 31.

    Commending the participants for a well researched paper, the Army Chief pointed out, that the paper presentation will revitalize the consciousness of emerging technologies and its implications for operational efficiency.

    The COAS disclosed, that the Nigerian Army as a sub system of the larger society is already keying into emerging technologies in its institutions and establishments, adding that the NA will sustain the development, as it cannot divorce itself completely from the dynamics of both its internal and external environments.

    The COAS averred, that employing emerging technologies has provided the Nigerian Army with improved surveillance capability, enhanced communication, efficient data management, situational awareness and strategic decision-making.

    Earlier, the Commandant National Defence College, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, stated that the presentation unveils the potentials of emerging technologies in significantly impacting on present and future operational engagements of the NA.

    He noted that as technologies continue to advance, the NA must continue to adopt and integrate evolving innovations, in other to maintain a competitive edge in the theatres of operations.

    He asserted, that the NA must continue to aspire to be a driver of technological changes, while constantly providing emerging technologies to enhance decision-making for operational efficiency.

    The event was climaxed with the presentation of a hard copy of the research paper to the COAS.

  • NIMASA Hands Over Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) To Technical Partners

    NIMASA Hands Over Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) To Technical Partners

    Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR flanked by the Managing Director, Melsmore, Mr. Danny Fuchs (left) and the Chief Engineer of Melsmore, Mr. Givol Yaron during the handing over of the leased site at the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) of the Nigerian Ports Authority to the technical partners, Melsmore. The event was held at the headquarters of the Agency in Lagos.

    The Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA has handed over the leased site at the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) of the Nigerian Ports Authority to the technical partners, Melsmore.

    The technical partners are to liaise with the Management of the Nigerian Ports Authority in finalising site management, which include risk assessment in preparation to move the Modular floating Dock to the Continental Shipyard for the commencement of full operations.

    NIMASA and the technical partners also agreed to invite manufacturers of the Floating Dock, Damen Shipyard to join in recommissioning the Dockyard, while site preparations are ongoing. This is to ensure the Floating Dock is deployed in the shortest possible time.

    L-R: Head, Maritime Safety and Seafarers Standards Department of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Mr. Taiwo Olaniyan; Managing Director, Melsmore, Mr. Danny Fuchs; Director General, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR; Chief Engineer of Melsmore, Mr. Givol Yaron; and Head, Public, Private Partnership Unit of NIMASA, Mr. Kabiru Diso. During the handing over of the leased site at the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) of the Nigerian Ports Authority to the technical partners, Melsmore, which was held at the headquarters of the Agency in Lagos.

    While addressing officials of Melsmore, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR, emphasised the need for them to review the action plan in the light of realities on ground with detailed deliverables, and key performance indicators with clearly stated timelines.

    “Nigerians eagerly await the deployment of the Modular Floating Dock. This is a national asset, which has potentials to boost maritime trade, create jobs, develop skills, by providing training avenues to various maritime training institutions in Nigeria, while also attracting foreign investment and preventing capital flight, thereby generating revenue. We hope to have students from the Maritime Academy of Nigeria and the Maritime University Okerenkoko amongst other maritime institutions come for practical time”, the DG said.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director, Melsmore, Mr. Danny Fuchs thanked the Management of the Agency for the opportunity to work on such important project, and gave the assurance that the company is prepared to handle the movement of the floating dock from the naval dockyard to the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL).

    Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR flanked by the Managing Director, Melsmore, Mr. Danny Fuchs (left) and the Chief Engineer of Melsmore, Mr. Givol Yaron during the handing over of the leased site at the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) of the Nigerian Ports Authority to the technical partners, Melsmore. The event was held at the headquarters of the Agency in Lagos.

    It may be recalled that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) recently leased designated areas at the Continental Shipyard for the operations of the Modular Floating Dock. The areas include; the dolphin jetty, waterfront of the jetty adjourning the slipway, an administrative block, a construction, welding and mechanical workshop and a civil maintenance workshop, among others.

    The project will be run on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

  • ACAMB To Hold 2nd National Stakeholders’ Conference 2023

    ACAMB To Hold 2nd National Stakeholders’ Conference 2023


    The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB), the umbrella body of corporate and marketing communication professionals working in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Nigeria, has announced Thursday, August 17, 2023, as the date for its 2nd National Stakeholders’ Conference set to hold at Bankers House, CIBN, Adeola Hopewell Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Themed “Marketing Financial Services in Dynamic Times”, the ACAMB stakeholders’ conference will serve to spotlight the evolving role of marketing communications in Nigeria’s burgeoning financial services industry.

    The keynote address at the conference will be delivered by Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya, Group MD, CMC Connect and immediate past President, African Public Relations Association (APRA). There will also be a panel discussion featuring a number of high-profile marketing communication experts and c-suite executives including Steve Babaeko, CEO/Chief Creative Officer, X3M Ideas and President, Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Helen Ogboh, Group Head Manufacturing, Corporate Banking Directorate of First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Tolulope Ogundipe, Group Head, Banking Services, Premium Trust Bank, Tosin Adebayo-Yusuf, Executive Director/COO, Heirs Life Assurance, Dr. Sunnie Omeiza-Michael, Director, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), James Agada, Director, CWG Plc.

    Commenting on the theme of this year’s stakeholders’ conference, Rasheed Bolarinwa, ACAMB President, said, “In dynamic times such as this, Marketing Communications plays an even greater role in the long-term viability and sustainable growth of Financial Institutions. It is no longer enough to offer innovative products and services, as these have become baseline in a highly competitive and consumer-driven market like ours. Hence, this conference has been carefully put together to provide all participants with the technical know-how to build and maintain trust with customers throughout the service journey whilst also factoring in the dictates of other key stakeholder groups.”

    As the umbrella body of all corporate and marketing communication professionals of Financial Institutions, ACAMB has, among other objectives, the mandate to evolve and implement strategies that would enhance the reputation of the Nigerian financial services industry. The 1st Stakeholders’ Conference which held in 2022 focused on building greater synergies within the Organised Private Sector (OPS) in Nigeria, in the face of the ‘new normal’ brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. The event was well-attended and featured insightful masterclasses and mentorship programmes as well as fitness and bonding sessions.

    The annual ACAMB Stakeholders’ Conference is open to members of the banking community and the OPS. Intending media and communication practitioners, heads of related agencies, and other relevant stakeholders are also invited to attend.

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