Category: News

  • NCS FOU ‘B’ Apprehends Fake Customs Officer For Impersonation, Shuaibu Vows Crackdown on Impostors

    NCS FOU ‘B’ Apprehends Fake Customs Officer For Impersonation, Shuaibu Vows Crackdown on Impostors


    In a decisive blow against fraudulent activities, the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘B’ (FOU ‘B’) has successfully apprehended a notorious impostor masquerading as a customs officer, reaffirming its commitment to rooting out impostors within the Nigeria Customs Service.

    Abubakar Ibrahim, aged 28, found himself ensnared by the long arm of the law after a relentless pursuit by FOU ‘B’ operatives, who, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Sokoto State Command, tracked him down to Next Level hotel in Sokoto State on 29th April 2024.

    The suspect, donning the uniform of the Nigeria Customs Service, was promptly taken into custody and handed over to the Customs Police Unit, Sokoto/Zamfara Command, for further investigation. His fraudulent activities, which targeted unsuspecting Nigerians, have now come to an abrupt end as he awaits prosecution in accordance with the law.

    Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, head of FOU ‘B’, expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Police, Sokoto State Command, for their invaluable cooperation and swift action in apprehending the perpetrator. Emphasizing the seriousness of the matter, he reiterated FOU ‘B’s unwavering resolve to clamp down on individuals who deceive the public by impersonating customs officials.

    Furthermore, Comptroller Shuaibu issued a stern warning to the public, urging them to remain vigilant and disregard any solicitations for money purportedly for recruitment or auction exercises. He emphasized that the Nigeria Customs Service does not solicit funds for such purposes and urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

    To mitigate the risk of falling victim to fraudsters, Comptroller Shuaibu advised the public to only follow verified social media accounts of the Nigeria Customs Service, identifiable by the blue tick symbol. He cited platforms such as Facebook, @CustomsNG on X (formerly Twitter), and a newly established WhatsApp Channel as legitimate channels for information dissemination.

    Additionally, members of the public were encouraged to seek clarification on customs-related matters by visiting the nearest Public Relations Unit of any Customs Command.

  • CSG Speak Out Against Corruption And Attacks On Anti-Corruption Agencies

    CSG Speak Out Against Corruption And Attacks On Anti-Corruption Agencies

    Civil society groups have united to denounce corruption and condemn attacks on anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action and accountability in combating pervasive corruption.

    Concerned civil society organizations and members of the press convened at a press briefing in Abuja today to address the state of the fight against corruption in Nigeria and decry the malicious attacks on anti-corruption agencies. The event served as a rallying cry for collective action and accountability in the face of pervasive corruption threatening the nation’s progress.

    Despite challenges facing Nigeria, including corruption and a lack of significant progress in democracy over the past twenty-four years, millions of citizens continue to uphold faith in the democratic system. However, recent malicious attacks and deliberate efforts to blackmail anti-corruption agencies have raised concerns about the integrity of the nation’s fight against corruption.

    Key Issues Highlighted include judicial corruption, corruption enablers, procurement of political power, inadequate budgetary allocation, rising disinformation, recruitment of youth into criminality, and undermining sub-national anti-corruption institutions.

    The briefing concluded with a series of recommendations to address corruption and strengthen anti-corruption efforts. These include calls for judicial integrity, transparency, and accountability, political accountability, adequate funding for anti-corruption agencies, public awareness campaigns, reinstatement of police personnel, and enhanced civil society engagement.

    Signed representatives of various civil society organizations underscored the importance of collective action in combating corruption and urged all Nigerians to stand against corruption and work towards a corruption-free Nigeria.

  • INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY: CISLAC Commends Nigerian Workers

    INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY: CISLAC Commends Nigerian Workers

    On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani, has praised the invaluable contributions of Nigerian workers to the nation’s advancement.

    CISLAC, Nigeria’s chapter of Transparency International, extends heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian workforce, acknowledging their pivotal role in driving the country’s socio-economic progress. Rafsanjani reaffirms CISLAC’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers.

    In light of the current economic challenges facing Nigerian workers, CISLAC acknowledges the struggle to secure a living wage amidst rising living costs. Despite these obstacles, Nigerian workers exhibit resilience and dedication, ensuring the nation’s continuous development across various sectors.

    Recognizing the indispensable role of Nigerian workers in national development, CISLAC pledges to champion their rights. The organization advocates for equitable treatment, adherence to safety regulations, and the implementation of robust social security measures to protect vulnerable workers.

    CISLAC stands in solidarity with the Nigerian labor movement, supporting their quest for a fair wage and improved working conditions. The organization emphasizes the need for policy reforms to create an enabling environment for Nigerian workers, including comprehensive social protection strategies, strengthened enforcement of labor laws, and investments in skills development programs.

    Mr. Rafsanjani emphasizes CISLAC’s commitment to advocating for Nigerian workers through impactful research, strategic advocacy campaigns, and legal representation for vulnerable workers seeking justice.

    In conclusion, CISLAC calls on the Nigerian government, civil society organizations, the private sector, and the labor movement to collaborate in empowering Nigerian workers and ensuring their fair treatment and adequate compensation. Together, they can build a future where decent work and equitable treatment are the norm for all Nigerians.

  • GMW: Unity Bank Marks Global Money Week, Engages Students on Financial Literacy

    GMW: Unity Bank Marks Global Money Week, Engages Students on Financial Literacy

    Unity Bank Plc has demonstrated its commitment to financial literacy by engaging students from across Nigeria in financial education activities as part of the 2024 Global Money Week celebrations.

    In a bid to promote financial inclusion, Unity Bank facilitated financial literacy training sessions in 15 schools spanning all geopolitical zones of the country. The initiative aligns with the goals of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Bankers Committee to enhance financial literacy among young Nigerians.

    Mrs. Ahunanya and a student interacts during the training

    As part of the program, Unity Bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Tomi Somefun, took part in the financial literacy training at NYSC Demonstration Secondary School in Calabar, Cross River State. Mrs. Somefun, represented by Unity Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer, Mrs. Patricia Ahunanya, shared valuable insights with students on wealth creation, savings habits, investment strategies, and effective money management.

    The session aimed to instill financial discipline and management skills in the students, empowering them to achieve financial independence and security while fostering a culture of savings and investment. Mrs. Somefun also recognized outstanding students and presented them with awards in acknowledgment of their achievements.

    A cross-section of the outstanding students with Mrs. Ahunanya (Middle) after the training.

    Global Money Week is an annual campaign dedicated to promoting financial literacy among young people worldwide. It seeks to equip them with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary for making informed financial decisions and achieving financial well-being. Over 40,000 organizations participate in the campaign annually, collectively impacting over 60 million children globally.

    In Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers Committee, in collaboration with Junior Achievement Nigeria, coordinate Global Money Week activities. Financial institutions across the country join hands to deliver financial education programs aimed at empowering young Nigerians with essential financial knowledge and skills.

    Some members of Unity Bank staff pose for a shot with some of the students and staff of NYSC Demonstration Secondary School, Calabar after the financial literary day training.

  • RIVERS STATE: Nigerian Navy Rescues Over 250 Passengers From Capsized Boat

    RIVERS STATE: Nigerian Navy Rescues Over 250 Passengers From Capsized Boat

    In a heroic late-night operation, Nigerian Navy personnel successfully rescued more than 250 individuals from a capsized passenger boat in Rivers State. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. local time on April 28, 2024, along the Cawthorne Channel.

    The vessel, identified as MV PRECIOUS EMMANUEL, embarked from a local market in the Sangana area of Bayelsa State, destined for Rivers State. Tragically, the boat encountered severe stormy conditions and struck an underwater wreck, compromising its hull integrity and causing it to overturn. The boat, described as a three-deck wooden “Large Cotonou Boat,” lacked essential lifesaving equipment, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.

    Naval Security Station (NSS) 023 personnel, stationed along the channel, responded promptly to the emergency, ensuring that no lives were lost in the mishap. This swift and effective rescue underscores the Navy’s commitment to maritime safety, in accordance with the Strategic Directive issued by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, aiming for a secure maritime environment within Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

    Further emphasizing the critical importance of safety gear, the Nigerian Navy reiterated the need for local maritime operators to equip vessels with life jackets, life buoys, and other lifesaving devices. The proper provision and use of such equipment are crucial for the safety of all maritime travelers.

    Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, affirmed the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime boundaries and ensuring safe passage for all legitimate maritime activities. The Navy continues to monitor and respond to maritime distress calls as part of its broader mission to protect and serve the nation’s interests at sea.

  • PAN-AFRICAN LEGAL POWERHOUSE EMERGES: ALP NG & Co Nigeria And Africa Legal Associates (ALA) Ghana Forge Strategic Alliance

    PAN-AFRICAN LEGAL POWERHOUSE EMERGES: ALP NG & Co Nigeria And Africa Legal Associates (ALA) Ghana Forge Strategic Alliance


    ALP NG & Co in solidifying their partnerships across Africa have formed an alliance with Ghana-based full-service Pan-African firm renowned for its expertise across various sectors, widening the ALP International practice group of firms across Africa.

    Founded in 2015 by Nana Adjoa Hackman and Gabby Otchere-Darko, ALA has garnered a reputation for its multidisciplinary professional services, which mirrors the profile of ALP NG & Co.

    Both ALP NG & Co and ALA hold membership in the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), with Senior Partner, Gabby Otchere-Darko serving as the Country Chair CWEIC Ghana and Olasupo Shasore, SAN, Senior Partner at ALP NG & Co, serving as the Country Chair CWEIC Nigeria.

    Alongside ALP Advocates Uganda and ALP East Africa (Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Tanzania), the ALP International Practice Group will leverage their collective strengths to provide comprehensive services and resources across West and East Africa. This alliance intends to foster a robust legal and professional solutions footprint across the continent and to champion the objectives of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA).

    In a joint communique released on Monday, 22nd April 2024, the alliance stated, “We will continue to serve our clients on this growing continentally connected professional legal services platform with a wider global reach”.

  • NN Celebrates Batch 35 Graduates In Colorful Passing Out Parade

    NN Celebrates Batch 35 Graduates In Colorful Passing Out Parade


    The Nigerian Navy marked a significant milestone on April 27 with the graduation of 1,486 trainees from the Basic Training School, Batch 35. The ceremony took place in Onne and was attended by several dignitaries, highlighting the importance of the event in bolstering the nation’s maritime defense capabilities.

    The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, served as the Reviewing Officer for the day’s proceedings, receiving a warm welcome from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, upon his arrival.

    The graduates, consisting of 1,240 males and 246 females, underwent six months of intensive training, which included seamanship, boat handling, rifle drills, and unarmed combat among other disciplines. Their training prepares them to effectively manage diverse challenges in maritime security.

    The Passing Out Parade (POP) was not only a demonstration of military discipline and prowess but also a colorful celebration of the new careers these young men and women are about to embark on. The event included a march past in both slow and quick time and featured a silent drill display that showcased the precision and discipline instilled in the trainees.

    Dr. Matawalle, addressing the gathering, congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of their commitment to national service. He also presented awards to outstanding trainees, acknowledging their exceptional performance during training.

    The ceremony was also graced by representatives of the Executive Governors of Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, representatives of the Service Chiefs, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, and Principal Staff Officers from both Defence and Naval Headquarters.

    This event not only marks the culmination of rigorous training for these sailors but also signifies their readiness to defend and serve the nation with honor and loyalty. As they take their oath of allegiance, they are reminded of the great responsibilities they bear in securing Nigeria’s maritime borders.

  • Nigerian Navy Advocates For Sportsmanship, Unity At Inter-Command Competition Closing Ceremony

    Nigerian Navy Advocates For Sportsmanship, Unity At Inter-Command Competition Closing Ceremony

    In the culminating event of the Nigerian Navy 2024 Inter-Command Football, Volleyball, and Tug of War Competition, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, emphasized the critical importance of sportsmanship and unity among naval personnel, urging participants to uphold these values in future endeavors.

    The event, graced by the Special Guest of Honour, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Emmanuel Ogalla who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval command, Rear Admiral MB Hassan, was a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence within the naval community.

    In his address, R Admiral MB Hassan commended the participants for their outstanding performance, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. He emphasized the importance of events like these in fostering camaraderie and teamwork among naval personnel, highlighting the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination displayed by all participants.

    Acknowledging the victorious teams, Hassan extended his heartfelt congratulations, recognizing their hard work, perseverance, and achievements. He encouraged those who did not emerge as winners to view the experience as an opportunity for growth and improvement, emphasizing the inherent value of participation and dedication.

    The Special Guest of Honor expressed gratitude to the Main Organizing Committee, officials, coaches, and all individuals who contributed to the success of the competition. Their tireless efforts ensured a smooth and hitch-free event, reflecting the dedication and commitment of the naval community to excellence in sports.

    List of commands that participated are: Western Naval Command,
    Eastern Naval Command, Naval Training Command, Logistics Command, NHQ, Naval Doctrine Command and Central Naval Command.

    As the competition came to a close, R Admiral MB Hassan urged participants to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie in future events, emphasizing the importance of striving for excellence both on and off the field.

    Below are the results of the competition:

    Volleyball female category

    GOLD – Naval Training Command

    SILVER – Western Naval Command

    BRONZE – Naval Headquarters Command

    Volleyball Male Category;

    GOLD- Naval Training Command

    SILVER- Eastern Naval Command

    BRONZE- Central Naval Command.

    Football

    GOLD – Eastern Naval Command

    SILVER- Logistics Command

    BRONZE- Naval Training Command

    TUG OF WAR FEMALE CATEGORY

    GOLD – Eastern Naval Command

    SILVER- Naval Headquarters Command

    BRONZE- Naval Training Command

    TUG OF WAR MALE CATEGORY

    GOLD – Naval Training Command

    SILVER- Naval Headquarters Command.

    BRONZE- Eastern Naval Command.

    In conclusion, Rear Admiral MB Hassan extended congratulations to all participants and expressed hope for the continued growth and success of the Nigerian Navy’s sports programs. He officially declared the Nigerian Navy 2024 Inter-Command Football, Volleyball, and Tug of War Competition closed, marking the end of a memorable and successful event.

    The closing ceremony served as a testament to the spirit of unity, teamwork, and excellence within the Nigerian Navy, reaffirming the commitment of naval personnel to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and sportsmanship.

  • Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity Amidst Continued Success Against Oil Theft

    Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity Amidst Continued Success Against Oil Theft

    Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, announced the extension of Operation DELTA SANITY for an additional 90 days. The announcement was made at the Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER in Port Harcourt.

    Operation DELTA SANITY, initially launched on 6 January 2024, is a robust anti-crude oil theft initiative aligned with the directive from the President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to eradicate crude oil theft and enhance Nigeria’s oil production for economic improvement. The operation involves aggressive surveillance and interdiction missions across the Niger Delta, utilizing Navy personnel, platforms, helicopters, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.

    The Vice Admiral highlighted the operation’s significant impact on curbing maritime criminal activities and oil theft. The Nigerian Navy has conducted both kinetic and non-kinetic operations, leading to substantial results across multiple states including Bayelsa, Ondo, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom. The efforts have drastically limited the operations of oil thieves and vandals, contributing to the recovery of large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products.

    Statistics from the operation demonstrate its effectiveness:
    – Recovery of massive quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products
    – Seizure of 95 wooden boats and 13 fiber boats
    – Deactivation of 119 storage tanks and refining ovens
    – Deactivation of 447 dugout pits and 120 illegal refining sites
    – Seizure of 9 vehicles
    – Arrest of 74 suspects
    – Seizure of 14 vessels

    Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support of the Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy. He also commended the valor and dedication of all officers and men involved in Operation DELTA SANITY, who sacrifice daily to uphold the operation’s mandate.

    The extension of Operation DELTA SANITY underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maintaining maritime security and bolstering the national economy through sustained efforts against crude oil theft.

  • Nestle Facing An Angry Backlash Over Sugar Content In Baby Products

    Nestle Facing An Angry Backlash Over Sugar Content In Baby Products

    Nestle, the renowned global food corporation, finds itself under scrutiny following revelations of high sugar levels in its baby food products across developing nations, notably Nigeria. An investigation conducted by Swiss organization Public Eye and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) has sparked concerns among parents and health professionals alike.

    The study uncovered traces of added sugar, including sucrose and honey, in Nestle’s Cerelac cereal for children aged six months to two years, as well as Nido, a follow-up milk formula for infants over one year old, sold in countries like Nigeria.

    Comparisons revealed stark differences in sugar content between different regions. Cerelac products in India contain almost 3 grams of sugar per serving, while those in developed countries like Germany and the UK contain no added sugar. In countries such as Ethiopia and Thailand, sugar content per serving peaks at nearly 6 grams.

    Critics have raised alarm bells, citing concerns over the potential health implications, particularly in a region already grappling with rising rates of obesity-related diseases. Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), emphasized the need for government intervention to address unhealthy dietary trends, including sugar-sweetened beverages.

    “In a country where over 80% of health expenditure is out-of-pocket, the government must prioritize legislation that curtails unhealthy food environments and promotes a culture of healthy consumption,” Oluwafemi stated.

    However, Nestle Nigeria’s Head of Corporate Communications, Victoria Uwadoka, responded to inquiries, asserting the company’s commitment to global nutrition, health, and wellness standards. Uwadoka clarified that Nestle does not add sugars to infant formula for children aged 0-12 months, including in Nigeria. She emphasized adherence to both international and local guidelines, stating that Nestle’s Growing Up Milk in Nigeria contains no added sugars.

    The controversy underscores the importance of transparency and consumer awareness in ensuring the nutritional integrity of baby products and promoting the health and well-being of infants and young children.

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