Category: News

  • Court Freezes Accounts, Restrains ABC Orjiakor From Assets, Investments, Bank funds Over $101million Debt

    Court Freezes Accounts, Restrains ABC Orjiakor From Assets, Investments, Bank funds Over $101million Debt

    A Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos has frozen the accounts of Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka (ABC) Orjiakor and restrained him from dealing with assets, investments, and funds in bank accounts over the sum of $101.12 million outstanding debt against him.
      
    The development was sequel to his inability to pay the judgment sum entered in favor of Access Bank by Mr. Justice Philips of the High Court of Justice of England and Wales in case No. CL-2014-000815; a matter that was affirmed by the Supreme Court of England and duly registered as the judgment of the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/219/2018, with the sum of $101,126,629.99 being the outstanding as at15th September 2021.

    In an Ex-parte Motion dated July 12, 2023, with Charge No. FHC/L/BK/08/2023 between Access Bank Plc (Creditor) and Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor (Debtor), an Interim Order was made restraining the “Debtor” and “his agents, servants, and or privies from interfering with, tampering and removing from the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court his funds,  investments, bonds, shares, pecuniary and other beneficial interest in all banks, financial institutions and/or company in Nigeria” pending the hearing and final determination of Motion on Notice  for the appointment of a Special Manager.

    An Order was also made ‘authorizing the creditor herein to take over and preserve all the assets of the Debtor, whether same may be found or situate.’ ‘A consequential Order directing and/or compelling all banks and financial institutions harboring the Debtor’s (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) accounts to depose to Oath the sums standing to the credit of the debtor in their custody within seven days from being served with an Order of the Court”.

    The 12 firms listed as respondents to the Motion are Seplat Energy Plc, Helko Nigeria Ltd, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc, Salvic Petroleum Resources Limited, Zebbra Energy Limited, Ordrec Group Limited, Helko Marine Services Limited, and Berwick Nigeria Limited. Others are Abbey Court Petroleum Limited, Abbey Court Energy Services Limited, Abbey Court Company Limited, and Pursley Company Limited.

    In a letter dated August 4, 2023, signed by Olasubomi Azeezat Saliu for ‘Kunke Ogunba & Associates (Insolvency Forte LP) acting for Access Bank Plc, the chamber advised respondents to the Motion to ‘forthwith stop further dealings or dissipations of the bond/ shares/investments standing to the credit of Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor, be it directly or held via proxy and furnish details of such bond/ shares/investments/interest belonging to the debtor’ to the firm.

    As part of the judgment, Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court granted an order freezing the bank accounts and assets of Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor , a co-founder and former Chairman of Seplat Energy over the alleged indebtedness to Access Bank Plc.

    The court order read: “That an Interim Order is hereby ordered restraining the debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor), his agents, servants and/ or privies or any other person or group of persons whatsoever under his authority or any other authority (however derived or sources) from operating, withdrawing from or otherwise tampering and/ or dealing with his funds in any bank and/or financial institution within Nigeria pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manger filed along herein.

    That a consequential order is hereby made: directing and/ or compelling all banks/ financial institutions harbouring  the debtor’s (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukweloka Orjiakor) in their custody with seven days from being served with a copy of the order of court.

    That Interim Order is hereby made restraining the respondents from dealing with shares, investments, bonds, assets, funds howsoever described belonging to the Debtor (whether held by him directly or via proxy) in their custody and/ or in custody of any bank/ financial institution pending the hearing and final determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manager filed along herein.

    That a consequential order is hereby made directing and/ or compelling respondents harbouring the debtor’s (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) shares, assets, bonds, funds howsoever described, whether held directly by the said Debtor or via proxy, to depose on Oath the shares, assets, investments, sums etc, standing to the credit of the Debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor) in their custody within 7 (seven) days from being served with a copy of the order of the court.

    That an Interim Order is hereby made restraining the debtor (Dr. Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiakor), his agents, Servants and/ or privies from interfering with , tampering, removing from jurisdiction of this honourable court his funds, investments, bonds, shares, pecuniary and other beneficial interests in all banks, financial institution and/ or company in Nigeria principally in Shebah Exploration and Production Company Limited, Allenne Limited and in the Respondents pending the hearing and final determination of the Motion on Notice for the appointment of a Special Manager filed along herein.

    It stated further: “That an order is hereby made authorizing the creditor herein to take over and preserve all the assets of the debtor, whether same may be found, specifically the following properties belonging to the debtor be it directly or via proxy: No. 25A, Lugard Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos, No. 6, Agodogba Avenue, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

  • QNET Restates Dedication To Addressing Financial Illiteracy In Nigeria

    QNET Restates Dedication To Addressing Financial Illiteracy In Nigeria


    QNET, a worldwide company specializing in direct-selling related to lifestyle and wellness, has initiated the second phase of its financial literacy initiative, FinGreen, aimed at equipping young individuals in Nigeria with the essential knowledge for achieving socio-economic empowerment.

    According to a report by Hybrid News, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) highlighted a low level of financial literacy in the country, standing at 64.1 percent, primarily attributed to the shortage of skilled trainers and accessible financial education resources.

    The FinGreen program is strategically designed to provide essential financial management skills and insights. It achieves this by training emerging leaders from diverse communities to become proficient trainers and advocates for financial literacy and economic empowerment among their peers.

    QNET, in collaboration with its local partner Transblue in Nigeria, launched this initiative in conjunction with the Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation (CADEF) and Financial Literacy For All (FLFA), who are responsible for executing the program and delivering content training, respectively.

    During the Phase 2 training of trainers event held in Lagos, Mr. Biram Fall, the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Manager for QNET, emphasized that Nigeria experiences a comparatively higher rate of financial exclusion compared to other Sub-Saharan African nations. Fall highlighted that QNET recognizes the pivotal role of financial literacy in ensuring financial inclusion. This recognition prompted the partnership with Transblue to devise comprehensive strategies aimed at delivering exceptional value to Nigerians by creating entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth.

    Fall underlined that QNET’s commitment to financial inclusion and literacy goes beyond mere aspirations, as they consider these aspects integral to their corporate social responsibility and core values. He added that as promoters of micro-entrepreneurship, QNET is well aware that education and inclusivity are fundamental pillars for building a brighter and more prosperous future.

    “Today, we launch the second phase of our transformative financial literacy program, FinGreen.

    This initiative has empowered youth, women, and entrepreneurs in vulnerable communities across Nigeria. We have enabled at least 600 individuals to make informed financial decisions through comprehensive financial education, and this is just the beginning. Our goal is to train at least 600,000 Nigerians in few years,” he further stated.

    He revealed that FinGreen is set to be introduced in marginalized communities worldwide with the aim of supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering resilient and prosperous economies in developing nations.

    “We intend to give back to this country that has given so much to us. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all our partners, stakeholders, and participants who have contributed to the success of FinGreen thus far. Together, let us continue to work tirelessly towards a Nigeria where financial stability, security, and prosperity are accessible to all,” he stated.

    In the same vein, the CEO of Transblue Nigeria Limited, Mr Abiodun Akeem Ajisafe, stated that “there was a growing demand for job creation among young people in Nigeria to drive economic growth. By offering Nigerians chances for economic empowerment through entrepreneurial education, financial literacy, skill development, and
    company management training, QNET is committed to bridging the gap,” Ajisafe said.

    Discussing the initial stage, Ajisafe remarked, “The pilot phase of FinGreen was inaugurated and executed in Nigeria between June and September of the prior year, yielding significant accomplishments. The pioneering trainee facilitators, who emerged from the pilot phase, successfully imparted financial literacy education to more than 500 young individuals across Lagos, Ogun, Osun, and Oyo States.”

    Regarding FinGreen’s second phase, the CEO of Transblue disclosed that this upcoming stage will encompass fresh subjects such as investment strategies, debt management, budgeting, and savings. These subjects were already part of the previous phase’s curriculum.

    He added that, “The programme would also provide training on entrepreneurial skills and business management, helping individuals to start and grow their businesses. We believe the QNET Fingreen Phase 2 has the potential to bring long-term benefits to more young people in various communities across the six different geo-political zones in Nigeria, including improved financial stability and increased economic opportunity.”

    Phase two of FinGreen also had the objective of building upon previous achievements and reinforcing QNET’s dedication to enhancing financial empowerment, according to Laja Shoniran, the Executive Director of Financial Literacy for All.

    Shoniran further commented that the program’s second batch involves the training of 25 young individuals, with the expectation that these 25 Nigerians will subsequently share their knowledge within their respective communities.

    This approach is envisioned to contribute towards the overarching goal of providing financial literacy training to 600,000 individuals.

    In the meantime, one of the program’s beneficiaries, Ms. Faith Enang, attested that the insights she gained from the training have significantly improved her financial literacy.

    She also mentioned that she has successfully passed on her knowledge to others in her community, resulting in their commendable progress in various business endeavors.

  • CBN Governor Highlights Human Trafficking As Concern Arising From Diaspora Flows

    CBN Governor Highlights Human Trafficking As Concern Arising From Diaspora Flows

    In a recent address at the prestigious National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), the acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Folashodun Shonubi, has shed light on the multifaceted impact of diaspora flows on the nation.

    Shonubi discussed the array of effects stemming from these flows, ranging from their positive contributions to the concerns that surround them.

    He underscored that while diaspora flows bring about positive outcomes for Nigeria, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges they also pose.

    In particular, he identified the alarming issue of human trafficking as a negative consequence linked to these global migrations.

    Amidst his exploration of the positive aspects of diaspora flows, the CBN governor expressed a note of lamentation over the fact that not all remittances are channeled through formal platforms.

    He emphasized the importance of encouraging remitters to utilize legitimate channels for these transactions, thereby fostering transparency and accountability in the process.

    The noteworthy occasion saw Mr. Shonubi deliver the Distinguished Personality Lecture titled “Diaspora Remittances and Nigeria’s Economic Development.”

    The address not only highlighted the economic implications of these remittances but also engaged with the intricate relationship between diaspora flows and the nation’s growth trajectory.

    Mr. Shonubi’s insightful discourse at the NISS serves as a reminder of the complexities woven into the fabric of diaspora flows.

    As Nigeria continues to navigate the intricate landscape of global migrations, his words encourage a comprehensive understanding of both the positive potential and the challenges that emerge from these phenomena.

  • NSCDC Commandant General Issues Directive To Safeguard National Assets

    NSCDC Commandant General Issues Directive To Safeguard National Assets

    The Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ahmed Abubakar Audi has issued a directive to all Zonal Commanders and State Commandants.

    He has urged them to enhance their efforts in conducting patrols, surveillance, and monitoring activities focused on Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) throughout the entire nation.

    This directive encompasses the inspection of even the smallest details, such as manholes located within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Delivering this directive during the second installment of the CG’s quarterly conference in 2023, Audi emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) for the overall national security and the progress of socio-economic development.

    “There is need for the Corps to strengthen security in all aspects of the country’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure through proactive and pragmatic steps as the lead agency in this regard.

    “You are to engage discrete investigation and intelligence gathering to track down those who engage in acts capable of undermining the security and integrity of our collective patrimony”, the CG said.

    Audi restated the fact that the Corps has achieved remarkable accomplishments in reducing incidents of oil theft, vandalism, violent attacks, and economic sabotage.

    This success has been made possible due to the unwavering dedication, commitment, and determination exhibited by the personnel, who have fearlessly confronted and overcome significant challenges. These achievements underscore the trust placed in the Corps.

    He expressed his admiration for the personnel’s contributions and urged them to persist in upholding their steadfastness, resilience, and professionalism while fulfilling the mandates of the Corps.

    “We need to remind ourselves of the challenges ahead of us and the need to effectively tackle the emerging security threats.

    “We also need to intensify our efforts in the protection of CNAI, tackle the challenges in the oil sector and ensure protection of farmers and farmland to guarantee food security.

    “Protect facilities in the power, telecoms and transportation sector with emphasis on rail infrastructure among others” he explained.

    The helmsman of the Corps underscored the Corps’ dedicated focus on enhancing its capabilities through training, retraining, and the acquisition of modern operational and communication equipment. These efforts are geared towards strengthening the Corps’ overall effectiveness.

    He directed the leaders of Corps formations to prioritize intelligence and surveillance training and retraining, recognizing its pivotal role in addressing the country’s security challenges effectively.

    The Chief General (CG) highlighted the significance of fostering collaboration and synergy with both host communities and sister agencies. Such partnerships, he stressed, are essential for swift responses and for safeguarding against acts of sabotage, vandalism, and intentional damage.

    He reminded the attendees about President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering stance against oil theft.

    Also, he issued a fresh directive to all State Commandants, urging them to revitalize their anti-vandalism and intelligence units.

    The successful execution of the Presidential Order would determine the continuation of their roles.
    The Commandant General’s Conference was initiated by Dr. Audi two years ago when he assumed office.

    Its purpose is to provide a platform for evaluating the Corps’ performance, appraising achievements, and discussing strategies for fulfilling its nationwide mandates.

  • Suspected Serial Murderer/Cultist Apprehended, Cache Of Weapons Seized

    Suspected Serial Murderer/Cultist Apprehended, Cache Of Weapons Seized

    In a significant breakthrough, law enforcement authorities have successfully apprehended a suspected serial murderer and cultist in Oghara, with the recovery of firearms and a stolen luxury vehicle.

    The suspect’s arrest comes after a series of gruesome murders rocked the community, leaving residents in fear and mourning.

    The unfolding events follow the tragic killing of Destiny Idi, a 27-year-old resident of Ovade Community on Ovie Road. Acting swiftly, Commissioner of Police CP Wale Abass instructed DPO Oghara CSP Olasunkanmi Musiliu to uncover the truth behind the crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    A relentless effort was launched, as DPO Musiliu led his team, supported by the division’s Anti-Crime Patrol Unit, to delve into the incident.

    With an eyewitness account as a starting point, the investigative team honed in on the suspected mastermind of the crime.

    On the same day, at approximately 1335hrs, the team executed a targeted operation at an undisclosed hotel in Oghara, culminating in the arrest of Charles Debi-Abate, a 39-year-old member of the Aro Bagger confraternity and a native of Oghara.

    Preliminary findings uncovered a chilling web of criminal activities involving the suspect.

    It was revealed that Debi-Abate was implicated in the murder of Onyekachi Chibuzor, known as “ODOGWU,” aged 42, on the 28th of July, 2023.

    The suspect’s history was linked to multiple cult-related assaults targeting perceived rivals within the Oghara community.

    Although the suspect denied direct involvement in the murder of Solomon Idi, he pointed authorities towards two other individuals, Onyeka and Paul, as the culprits responsible for the heinous crime.

    In a follow-up operation on the 9th of August, 2023, law enforcement officers proceeded to the locations associated with Onyeka and Paul. Unfortunately, both were absent.

    However, a thorough search of their premises yielded a startling discovery – two English pump-action shotguns, twenty live cartridges, and a stolen GLK Benz SUV bearing the registration number RBC-995-DG.

    Currently, the arrested suspects are in custody, and the recovered evidence is secured as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are pursuing an intense manhunt for Onyeka and Paul, aiming to bring them to justice for their alleged roles in the crimes.

    The swift and coordinated efforts of law enforcement demonstrate a commitment to maintaining public safety and instilling confidence within the community.

    As the investigation progresses, the Oghara community and the nation at large await further developments in this high-stakes case.

  • Wema Bank Collaborates With Enza Group To Enhance E-commerce Payment Acceptance

    Wema Bank Collaborates With Enza Group To Enhance E-commerce Payment Acceptance

    L-R: Divisional Head, Payment Business, Wema Bank, Damola Bolodeoku, CEO of enza, Hany Fekry and Wema Bank’s Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku at the unveiling of the partnership on Thursday in Lagos

    Enza’s revolutionary Payment Orchestration is set to empower Wema Bank with the ability to offer secure and dependable payment solutions, all while reducing operational costs.

    In a groundbreaking development, Enza, a highly acclaimed disruptor in the African payments sector, has unveiled a strategic partnership with Wema Bank, known for its innovation in Nigeria’s banking landscape.

    This collaboration will see Enza employ its cutting-edge payment orchestration solution to expand Wema Bank’s e-commerce payment capabilities, leading to an elevated merchant service quality, heightened payment security, improved service reliability, and a substantial reduction in operational expenses through optimized transactions.

    Wema Bank, renowned for its progressive mindset and dedication to innovation, will harness the power of Enza’s payment orchestration prowess to enrich its existing e-commerce payment services.

    As the pioneer of Africa’s premier fully digital bank, ALAT, and one of Nigeria’s most esteemed financial institutions, Wema Bank is advancing its digital transformation journey with this alliance, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in revolutionizing payment practices in Nigeria.

    The Enza payment orchestration service promises an array of advantages for Wema’s business customers and individuals alike.

    Merchants will enjoy an enhanced suite of payment processing features, enabling them to accept an extensive array of payment methods, spanning payment cards, e-wallets, and more.

    The optimized and robust payment processes will ensure swift and seamless transactions, thus enhancing the overall customer experience for both payers and recipients.

    Enza has been making waves in the industry since its emergence in the latter part of the previous year.

    “Our mission is to simplify payments across the region, thereby enabling seamless and secure transactions across the Middle East and Africa,” said Hany Fekry, the CEO of Enza. “This new partnership with a premier Nigerian bank further accelerates our progress towards that goal.”

    The Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, explains that this innovation is designed to empower the bank’s customers by offering them a broader range of payment options, including various payment cards and e-wallets.

    He believes that these streamlined and resilient payment processes will ensure quick and seamless transactions, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience for both those making payments and those receiving them.

    The Divisional Head of Payment Business at Wema Bank, Damola Bolodeoku, highlighted the synergy between this partnership and the bank’s overarching commitment to consistent innovation and improving their services.

    Bolodeoku affirms, “As an establishment that takes pride in its role as a digital frontrunner within the banking sector, we are enthralled to synergize with enza Group to introduce a revolutionary e-commerce payment gateway solution.

    Through this synergy, we ardently anticipate amplifying our e-commerce payment capacities and delivering heightened value to our customers through all avenues.”

    In an area characterized by swift advancements in digital payment technologies, this collaboration offers Enza and Wema Bank an opportunity to reshape the e-commerce payment sector.

    The financial institution and its clientele stand to gain from heightened security, exceptional service dependability, and notably decreased expenses.

  • 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.

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