Category: News

Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, will host a free virtual training on the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 (NTA) as part of its commitment to helping small businesses prepare for the upcoming legislation.

The masterclass is scheduled for 10:00 AM (Nigerian time) on Friday, 12 December 2025. It will provide participants with clear insights into changes in the tax framework, the impact on income and business operations, and practical steps to avoid penalties in 2026. Attendees will also learn strategies to stay ahead in an evolving regulatory environment.

The Nigerian government enacted major tax reforms on 26 June 2025 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed four tax bills into law. These Acts will take effect on 1 January 2026 and represent a significant overhaul of the country’s tax system. The reforms aim to modernize and harmonize Nigeria’s tax framework, improve revenue generation, broaden the tax base, and create clearer rules for individuals, businesses, and government agencies.

“Our decision to host this masterclass reflects our commitment to empowering businesses with the right information ahead of the commencement of the new tax regime. Information is money and a well-informed business owner is already steps ahead in the race to success. This is why we are bringing experts to provide accurate details and demystify the tax act,” said Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc.

Interested participants can register via https://bit.ly/2026TaxLawMasterclass .

In a grand display of naval pageantry and tradition, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Rtd), Admiralty Medal, GSS, psc, fdc(+), BSc, MSc, was accorded a dignified and emotional Pulling/Sailing Out Ceremony on Thursday, 11 December 2025, at the iconic NNS QUORRA Parade Ground, Apapa, Lagos. The event marked the formal conclusion of an illustrious career in the Nigerian Navy, one distinguished by unwavering patriotism, strategic foresight, and exemplary leadership.

The ceremony drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including senior military commanders, government officials, top diplomats, captains of industry, and members of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA). Their presence reflected the profound respect Vice Admiral Ogalla commands across Nigeria’s defense and security architecture.

Born on 20 December 1968, Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla’s remarkable journey began at the Nigerian Military School, Zaria, where he obtained the West African School Certificate in 1987. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the prestigious University of Ibadan. Appointed Chief of Naval Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 19 June 2023, he served with distinction until 30 October 2025, leaving behind a legacy of operational transformation and strategic renewal.

The event commenced with a colourful parade that captured the admiration of attendees. Among the dignitaries present were the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff; the Inspector General of Police; heads of security and paramilitary institutions; as well as eminent personalities from both the public and private sectors. The blend of ceremonial splendor and emotional sentiment set the tone for a day of reflection, honour, and gratitude.

In his moving farewell address, Vice Admiral Ogalla reflected on his decades-long voyage from a young cadet to the pinnacle of naval command. “As every sailor knows, no matter how long the voyage, there must come a time to return to shore,” he said. “This ceremony is not merely a formal farewell; it is the symbolic end of a long, rewarding, and unforgettable journey.”

He expressed deep gratitude to God Almighty for guidance throughout his career and paid heartfelt tribute to fallen naval personnel. “Our colleagues who paid the supreme price in the line of duty remain forever etched in the history of our great nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and devotion continue to inspire us all,” he noted.

Turning to his family, Ogalla spoke with emotional sincerity. “To my beloved family, my wife, the immediate past National President of NOWA, Mrs. Ijeoma Blessing Ogalla, our two children, and our extended family, I owe you a debt I can never fully repay. The long absences, the missed celebrations, the interrupted moments of rest, you endured them all with grace and understanding. You were my strength, my compass, and my most sincere critics.”

He added, “This uniform I wore with pride represents not only my service but the sacrifices you all made beside me. Now the time has come for us to relive the moments we missed. To all naval families and every spouse holding the fort at home, you are the quiet strength behind our uniforms.”

Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the critical role of the Nigerian Navy in national security and regional stability, praising its growing capabilities and professionalism.
“Our nation is blessed with a Navy that continues to demonstrate exceptional competence, courage, and commitment. It remains a reliable pillar of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond,” he affirmed.

He paid tribute to his predecessors, acknowledging their foresight in building a robust and dynamic naval force. He also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and for supporting his vision for operational efficiency, innovation, and improved welfare for naval personnel.

Despite heavy rainfall earlier in the day, the Nigerian Navy pressed on with the grand parade, demonstrating its discipline and dedication. The pulling-out process was conducted with precision symbolizing the ceremonial exit of an accomplished naval leader from active service.

The event also featured newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, whom Ogalla described as “a man of integrity, vision, and competence,” expressing full confidence in his ability to steer the Navy to greater heights.

The ceremony portrayed the Navy’s pride, unity, and enduring spirit of service. It served not only as an honour to Vice Admiral Ogalla but also as a reaffirmation of the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and maritime interests.

As Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Rtd) steps into a new chapter of life beyond uniform, his legacy of leadership, dedication, and service will continue to inspire future generations of officers and sailors. His contributions stand as a testament to duty, honour, and patriotism, values that define the Nigerian Navy and strengthen the nation.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday commissioned a series of key projects at the Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos, aimed at enhancing the welfare of personnel and operational readiness of the Nigerian Army.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “The commissioned projects include a refurbished basketball court sponsored by First Bank, a remodeled Quarter Guard at the 9 Brigade Headquarters funded by Airpeace Airlines, and the newly completed 9 Brigade Headquarters Complex, executed under the leadership of the immediate past Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Mathew Oyekola.

During the visit, General Shaibu also planted a tree within the barracks, symbolising the Army’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Speaking at the commissioning, he lauded the support of corporate partners and urged continued collaboration to improve barracks facilities and personnel welfare.

The COAS is on a two-day official visit to formations and units under the 81 Division Area of Responsibility.

In the heart of Nigeria’s Southern Plateau, a bold and forward-looking initiative is reshaping the social and economic landscape of rural communities. The Langtang Innovation Hub, under the visionary leadership of Project Lead Prince Ponfa Miri, is leveraging technology, digital education and innovation to unlock opportunities for young people, children and women who have long been excluded from the digital economy.

Through strategic training, community-driven innovation and access to modern technology, the hub is steadily emerging as a catalyst for sustainable rural development and inclusive growth.

Anchored on the belief that “the future is rural,” Prince Ponfa Miri emphasizes that empowering rural populations, especially children, women and young people is critical to shaping Africa’s digital future. The Langtang Innovation Hub is redefining rural digital education by breaking down long-standing barriers to access, knowledge and opportunity.

By providing modern learning tools, mentorship and a supportive innovation ecosystem, the hub ensures that rural communities are not left behind in the global technology revolution. Participants are exposed to digital literacy and emerging technologies that position them for relevance in today’s fast-evolving world.

The core mission of the Langtang Innovation Hub is empowerment. Its training programs are carefully designed to build practical, market-relevant skills that translate into real economic opportunities. Beneficiaries receive hands-on training in basic computer literacy, digital marketing, virtual assistance, graphic design, data science and other in-demand digital skills.

These programs are particularly impactful for women and young people, enabling them to become digitally empowered, economically independent and community change-makers. For many participants, the hub represents a first-ever opportunity to engage with technology in a structured and transformative way.

Beyond skills acquisition, the Langtang Innovation Hub is deploying technology as a tool for long-term rural sustainability. The hub supports innovative projects that apply digital solutions to real-life rural challenges. Through initiatives such as precision agriculture, digital market access and e-commerce platforms, rural farmers and entrepreneurs are gaining improved access to information, markets and income-generating opportunities.

By integrating technology with local knowledge, the hub is strengthening livelihoods, boosting productivity and fostering economic resilience across rural Plateau communities.

The impact of the Langtang Innovation Hub extends far beyond its training rooms. It is actively changing the narrative around rural communities showing that innovation, creativity and enterprise can thrive outside urban centers. The hub highlights rural areas as spaces of opportunity rather than limitation, inspiring confidence and ambition among participants.

In doing so, it is nurturing a new generation of rural innovators, digital professionals and community leaders who are equipped to compete globally while contributing locally.

As the Langtang Innovation Hub continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, its long-term significance becomes increasingly evident. By equipping young people, women and children with future-ready skills, the hub is laying a strong foundation for economic growth, digital inclusion and sustainable development in Southern Plateau and beyond.

With its unwavering focus on technology-driven empowerment and rural digital education, the Langtang Innovation Hub is not only transforming communities, it is redefining the future of rural development in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has begun strategic engagements to reposition the Eyo Festival as one of the nation’s leading cultural tourism attractions, with a courtesy visit by the Director General, Dr. Ola Awakan, to the Iga Idunganran Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I.

The visit forms part of NTDA’s renewed commitment to transforming Nigeria’s major cultural festivals into globally competitive tourism assets, with the Eyo Festival identified as a flagship event capable of drawing both domestic and international visitors.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Awakan noted that the Eyo Festival represents the soul of Lagos culture and stands as a powerful tool for destination branding.
“Our focus is to work closely with the Lagos Royal Institution to elevate the Eyo Festival into a world-class cultural attraction that mirrors the vibrancy, identity, and history of Lagos,” he said.
He emphasized the Authority’s dedication to providing technical support, strengthening promotion, and enhancing cultural preservation.

Oba Akiolu welcomed NTDA’s renewed interest, expressing strong support for a more coordinated national approach to the festival’s promotion.
“The Eyo Festival is a heritage treasure and the heartbeat of Lagos tradition. We welcome collaborations that will help safeguard its legacy and promote it as a cultural pride for future generations,” he said.
The monarch urged the NTDA DG to remain steadfast in advancing tourism values that reflect integrity, heritage protection, and cultural growth.

Both parties discussed opportunities to transform the 2025 edition of the Eyo Festival into a more structured cultural tourism experience, one that not only preserves tradition but also enhances visitor participation, creates economic opportunities for local communities, and strengthens Lagos’ position as a premier cultural destination.

At the end of the palace engagement, the Director General and his team were received by the Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government and Chairman of the 2025 Eyo Festival Planning Committee, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan. He welcomed NTDA’s involvement and assured the Authority of the committee’s readiness to work collaboratively to deliver a successful, tourism-driven festival.

Dr. Awakan was accompanied by the NTDA South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mrs. Alice Akinsola, and other senior officials.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has received the Outstanding Revenue Collection Award at the 2025 Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS), held on Sunday, 7 December 2025, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, said the CGC was selected from 44 distinguished recipients drawn from institutions across the country following a rigorous assessment of public service performance.

The SGF commended Adeniyi for his discipline, transparency and professionalism in revenue administration, describing his leadership as “a clear reflection of the kind of public service Nigeria needs at this critical moment.”

Akume added that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) under Adeniyi has shown “commendable consistency in surpassing revenue targets, tightening border management processes and restoring public confidence in institutional service delivery,” noting that his nomination was both deserving and inspiring.

He stressed that NEAPS aims to strengthen a culture of recognition in public institutions, reminding recipients that “public offices are held in trust for the Nigerian people.”

Speaking to newsmen after receiving the award, CGC Adeniyi expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu, the SGF and the organisers for the honour.

He said the award was “a personal inspiration but, more importantly, a tribute to the dedication of the officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service.”

Adeniyi dedicated the award to the entire workforce, noting that it would further boost morale as the Service intensifies efforts to improve revenue collection, strengthen border security and advance trade facilitation.

“This recognition challenges us to work even harder. It reinforces our commitment to making this country proud through credible revenue administration and service that reflects integrity and excellence,” CGC Adeniyi said.

CGC Adeniyi was among the standout honourees at the ceremony, which attracted a high-profile audience including the Governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Kano and Zamfara States, as well as the Director-General of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and other senior public officials.

The ceremony formed part of the second edition of NEAPS, organised by The Best Strategic (TBS) Media in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), to celebrate individuals and institutions delivering exceptional service to the nation.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has embarked on a two-day official operational and morale-boosting visit to formations and units under the Area of Responsibility of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, underscoring the Army’s resolve to strengthen internal security while sustaining regional stability across West Africa.

Addressing officers and soldiers during the visit, the COAS described the engagement as a deliberate effort to personally appreciate troops for their unwavering dedication to duty, particularly in ensuring the safety and stability of Lagos and Ogun States. He noted that the secure environment maintained by the 81 Division has enabled economic activities to thrive and allowed residents to go about their daily lives without fear.

“It is my responsibility to come here, see you face to face, and appreciate you for all that you have been doing,” Lieutenant General Shaibu said. “You have played a critical role in keeping Lagos and Ogun States safe, thereby supporting national economic growth and social stability. You have all done very well.”

The Army Chief disclosed that the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, had extensively briefed him on the improving security situation within the division’s Area of Responsibility. He expressed satisfaction with the high level of discipline, professionalism, and operational effectiveness displayed across units, describing the performance of the division as commendable.

Urging the troops to sustain the tempo, the COAS assured them that their welfare remains a top priority under his leadership. He emphasized that the presence of his senior staff during the visit was a clear demonstration of the Army Headquarters’ commitment to placing soldiers first in all decisions.

“Everything that concerns your well-being is very important to us,” he stated. “Accommodation, allowances, healthcare, and the education of your children are issues we take seriously. We are determined to ensure that your families, especially your children, have access to quality education and proper medical care.”

He encouraged personnel to freely channel their concerns through established command structures, assuring them that issues raised through officers and senior non-commissioned officers would be addressed promptly and responsibly.

The COAS also expressed delight over the significant reduction in cases of illegal duties and unprofessional conduct within the division. He warned troops to continue to shun misconduct and remain guided by the core values and ethics of the Nigerian Army, noting that discipline remains the foundation of effective soldiering.

“I am happy with the progress recorded so far,” he said. “Do your best to stay out of trouble. Hold fast to the core values of the Nigerian Army, and you will always remain on the right path.”

Lieutenant General Shaibu particularly commended officers and men of the 81 Division for their swift operational response and professionalism during a recent regional deployment that supported efforts to restore constitutional order and democracy in the Republic of Benin following a coup-related crisis. He described the rapid mobilization and successful execution of the mission as a strong testament to the Nigerian Army’s readiness, discipline, and commitment to democratic governance and regional peace.

“Immediately the directive was given, officers moved into action, mobilized their men, and ensured that the task was carried out effectively,” he said. “That decisive response, which helped return democratic governance to the people of Benin Republic, is the hallmark of true soldiering. I congratulate every one of you.”

The Army Chief concluded his address by urging the troops to remain disciplined, focused, and obedient to constituted authority. He reminded them to always listen to their officers, follow lawful instructions, and keep the Soldier’s Creed and core values of the Nigerian Army at the forefront of their conduct.

“As long as you remain guided by these values,” he emphasized, “you will not only succeed individually, but you will also continue to strengthen the Nigerian Army’s reputation at home and across the region.”

Lagos witnessed an evening of glamour, recognition, and renewed commitment to national security as top government officials, security chiefs, media executives, and civil society leaders recently gathered at Shoregate Hotel Event Hall in GRA Ikeja for the prestigious RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards. The event, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most credible platforms for celebrating excellence in public service and security sector collaboration, became a defining moment for the Lagos State Police Command as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, emerged as Best Commissioner of Police in Anti-Crime Operations.

The award ceremony, held in Lagos amidst tight security and an atmosphere of elegance, was more than a celebration of individual achievement. It was a powerful affirmation of the growing synergy between security agencies, the media, and the public in the collective fight against crime. For the Lagos Police Command, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh stood out as a public validation of months, indeed years of sustained operations, strategic reforms, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement under the current leadership.

From the moment the Lagos CP Jimoh arrived at the venue, it was evident that the event would be special. Accompanied by senior officers of the command, the police boss received warm acknowledgment from colleagues across sister security agencies, journalists, and public figures who recognize the enormity of securing Africa’s most populous city. The applause that followed his introduction reflected not protocol but genuine appreciation for a leader whose work has left a tangible impact on safety and crime reduction across the state.

The highlight of the night came when the Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief of RazorNews Group, Mr. Odita Sunday announced the Lagos State Commissioner of Police as Best CP in Anti-Crime. The citation praised his “strategic leadership, proactive crime prevention measures, effective coordination with sister agencies, and commitment to intelligence-driven policing in Lagos State.” According to the organisers, the decision was based on months of independent assessment, data analysis, field reports, and feedback from residents, security stakeholders, and professional bodies.

Under his watch, Lagos has recorded significant breakthroughs in the fight against violent crimes including armed robbery, cult-related violence, kidnapping, traffic-related crimes, and cyber-enabled offences. Tactical deployments, improved response time, and the reinvigoration of police-community relations have strengthened public confidence in the command. RazorNews noted that policing in Lagos under the current leadership has moved beyond reactive enforcement to a more preventive, technology-driven, and collaborative model.

Policing Lagos is a task unlike any other in Nigeria. With a population estimated to exceed 20 million, sprawling urban communities, a bustling economy, and constant human movement, Lagos presents complex security challenges that require innovation, resilience, and adaptability. Criminal elements often evolve rapidly, exploiting technology, mobility, and anonymity within the megacity.

In spite of these challenges, the Lagos CP has consistently emphasized professionalism, discipline, and accountability within the ranks. Regular briefings, operational reviews, intelligence sharing, and joint task operations with other agencies such as the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Civil Defence Corps, and traffic management authorities have ensured a coordinated approach to security.

RazorNews underscored that the award was also a recognition of the CP’s ability to foster inter-agency cooperation, a core theme of the awards ceremony. In an era where security threats are multifaceted, the Lagos Police Command has stood out for its willingness to collaborate rather than compete, to share intelligence rather than operate in silos.

Receiving the award, the Lagos CP expressed gratitude to RazorNews for the recognition, describing it as “an honour that belongs to the officers and men of the Lagos State Police Command.” He dedicated the award to police personnel who risk their lives daily to keep Lagos safe and to those who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

“This award is not about one individual,” he said. “It reflects the collective sacrifice, resilience, and professionalism of thousands of officers who work tirelessly, often under very difficult conditions, to protect lives and property in Lagos State.”

The CP also commended the Lagos State Government for its continuous support, noting that effective policing thrives where leadership invests in security infrastructure, welfare, training, and logistics. He further acknowledged the role of the media, especially responsible platforms like RazorNews, in shaping public perception, disseminating accurate information, and promoting accountability within the security sector.

Importantly, he used the opportunity to reiterate that security is a shared responsibility. Calling on citizens to continue partnering with the police, he emphasized timely information sharing, community vigilance, and trust-building as essential tools in sustaining peace and safety across the state.

The RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards have, over the years, grown into a respected platform that bridges the gap between security institutions and the public. By spotlighting exemplary service, the awards encourage accountability, healthy competition, and best practices among agencies tasked with national safety.

In his address, the Publisher of RazorNews noted that the choice of the Lagos CP for the anti-crime award was “clear and compelling,” adding that the command’s record speaks loudly. He stressed that recognizing excellence is not about praise alone, but about setting benchmarks for others to emulate.

“Our goal is to encourage a culture where good work is seen, documented, and celebrated,” he said. “When security leaders know that their efforts are independently assessed, it motivates sustained professionalism and transparency.”

Within the Lagos Police Command, the award has been widely celebrated as a morale booster for officers across divisions, area commands, and tactical units. For many personnel, the recognition serves as proof that their sacrifices are neither ignored nor taken for granted.

Lagos state police public relations officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, anipr, mipra, described the award as motivating, noting that strong leadership at the top often translates to clarity of purpose and discipline at operational levels. She expressed optimism that the recognition would further energize ongoing reforms and welfare-driven initiatives within the command.

As the ceremony drew to a close, one message remained clear: the award is not an endpoint but a challenge to do more. With evolving security threats, rapid urban expansion, and rising public expectations, the task ahead remains demanding.

However, confidence remains high that under the current leadership, the Lagos State Police Command will continue to prioritize innovation, partnership, and professionalism. Plans to deepen intelligence-led operations, expand technology use, strengthen community policing structures, and enhance officer welfare remain firmly on the agenda.

The RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards will be remembered not only for the plaques presented but for the broader message it conveyed, that effective security in Nigeria depends on cooperation, integrity, and visionary leadership.

For the Lagos CP, the Best Commissioner of Police in Anti-Crime award stands as a powerful affirmation of leadership under pressure and service in a city that never sleeps. For Lagos residents, it reinforces hope that their safety remains in capable hands. And for Nigeria’s security architecture, it offers a model of what is possible when institutions work together in the interest of the people.

As the world marks the United Nations Anti-Corruption Day, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigerian chapter of Transparency International (TI), has issued a strong warning that corruption remains one of the most destructive forces driving insecurity across the country.

In a press statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of TI-Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation expressed deep concern that despite massive investments in defence and internal security over the years, corruption within the system continues to weaken national safety and expose citizens to relentless violence.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria noted that Nigeria’s prolonged battles with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, militancy, communal clashes and organised criminal networks have been compounded by deep-rooted corruption that undermines every layer of the security architecture. The organisation explained that from defence procurement to personnel recruitment, welfare administration, intelligence sharing and operational command, corruption has become entrenched in ways that directly fuel insecurity.

According to the organisation, security funds continue to disappear through inflated contracts, questionable procurement deals, misallocation of resources and outright diversion of money meant for operations and equipment. It observed that welfare-related corruption has left frontline personnel poorly motivated, while the families of officers who die in service often receive no entitlements, eroding morale and trust within the ranks.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria further highlighted how recruitment corruption has placed unqualified individuals in sensitive positions and pushed competent officers aside. It said misuse of security priority, where ordinary citizens remain vulnerable while some individuals enjoy excessive security protection, reflects systemic inequality and mismanagement. The organisation also condemned entrenched nepotism and situations where officials manipulate laws to unlawfully extend tenure in security institutions, describing such practices as dangerous to national stability.

The statement also raised concerns over weak oversight from the National Assembly and the persistent failure of government institutions to ensure accountability in the security sector. It noted that the lack of collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies continues to create loopholes exploited by criminal groups. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria added that illegal payments made by police officers at roadblocks to remit returns to superiors illustrate how corruption has permeated routine law enforcement.

The organisation lamented what it described as the collapse of administrative justice, where impunity persists for security failures and corruption-related misconduct. It also criticised the widespread violation of the presidential directive withdrawing police personnel from VIPs, noting that the directive has been largely disregarded. According to CISLAC/TI-Nigeria, insecurity has now become a lucrative enterprise for certain actors in government who facilitate ransom payments and negotiations with terrorists, prioritising short-term fixes over lasting solutions.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria highlighted the intense proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria, warning that this has become a major driver of insecurity. In 2021, the country was estimated to house roughly 70 percent of illicit arms and weapons in West Africa. The organisation noted that growing concerns about the financing of terrorist activities within the country have contributed to Nigeria being ranked 8th among the top 10 countries with the highest levels of terrorism in the 2024 Global Terrorism Index. This alarming trend, it said, underscores the urgent need for both security sector reforms and anti-corruption measures to prevent further destabilisation.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria called for urgent and comprehensive reforms, urging the Federal Government, National Assembly, security agencies and anti-corruption bodies to prioritise transparency and accountability in the management of defence and security funds. The organisation emphasised the need for full disclosure of procurement processes and audited expenditure records in line with global standards.

It stressed the importance of stronger legislative oversight to ensure that security budgets and operational performance are independently reviewed. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria also advocated for an independent defence procurement audit system to end contract inflation, ghost projects and misuse of funds.

The organisation urged government to implement far-reaching security sector reforms that include strict disciplinary measures for officers involved in bribery, extortion, collusion with criminal networks or any form of operational compromise. It also called for improved welfare, insurance and equipment for frontline personnel to rebuild morale and operational effectiveness.

Furthermore, CISLAC/TI-Nigeria underscored the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation to eliminate gaps exploited by criminal organisations. It also called for the protection of whistle-blowers to encourage the reporting of corruption within the security and defence sector.

The organisation maintained that Nigeria cannot overcome insecurity without first addressing corruption within the security sector. It emphasised that no volume of military spending or sophisticated equipment will deliver results if diverted funds, weak oversight and entrenched impunity continue to undermine the system.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria affirmed that the safety of Nigerians must not be compromised by corruption, political interests or institutional negligence. It reiterated its commitment to working with government, parliament, security agencies and citizens to champion reforms that will enhance accountability, strengthen national security and rebuild public trust.

Nigeria, the organisation said, deserves a secure, just and prosperous future. It added that such a future can only be achieved by confronting and eliminating corruption at the heart of the country’s security framework.

8 Division Nigerian Army /Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma Strike Team deployed for counter banditry and terrorism operation in Sokoto State in a swift and decisive ambush operation and tactical operationsuccessfully neutralized 11 bandits and recovered substantial cache of arms. The bold and tactical operation, conducted near Kurawa Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area disrupted a planned attack on Tara Village, a critical area for cross-movement by terroristand bandit elements.

Acting on precise credible intelligence the strike team executed a well-coordinated ambush engaging the bandits in an intense firefight. The operation resulted in the neutralization of 11 bandits, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The troops recovered 8 AK-47 rifles, 5 extra magazine and 26 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition**

The operation not only prevented a potential terrorist attack but also dealt a significant blow to the bandits and terrorists network operating in the Sabon Birni Corridor which has been a flash point in recent time. The proactive response by the troops highlights their unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens in Sokoto State and its surrounding areas.

The success of this mission reinforces the Division’s resolve to combat banditry and terrorism, ensuring peace and security for the people of Sokoto State.