The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

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  • Nigeria Police Trust Fund Flags Off Construction of Six-Man Rank-and-File Quarters in Ozalla

    Nigeria Police Trust Fund Flags Off Construction of Six-Man Rank-and-File Quarters in Ozalla

    Doris Ewoh, Enugu

    The Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) has flagged off the construction of six-man rank-and-file quarters, aimed at providing decent accommodation for police officers serving in the Ozalla Division.

    The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, at the Ozalla Police Division, Enugu State Command, with executives from the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, officers of the Enugu State Command, political stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community leaders in attendance.

    In his address, the Inspector-General of Police, ably represented by the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, expressed appreciation to the Board and Management of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund for the landmark project, as well as to the Federal Government, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritizing police reforms.

    He stated that the project would go a long way in enhancing the working environment for police officers in Ozalla and across Enugu State, significantly boosting morale, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening the commitment of the benefiting officers to their constitutional duties.

    CP Giwa further assured that the Inspector-General of Police would ensure the project is completed within the stipulated timeframe, while the engineers handling the construction would carry out the required due diligence.

    “It is therefore the assurance of the Inspector-General of Police that the Nigeria Police Force will provide all necessary support to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund to ensure that this project is completed in record time and deployed for its intended purpose. He also enjoined the contractors and engineers handling the project to uphold the highest standards of quality, professionalism, and integrity throughout the construction process,” he said.

    He additionally requested that the Trust Fund extend this noble intervention to other police facilities across the state. Of particular concern, he noted, is the existing six-man rank-and-file quarters adjacent to the site, which is in a seriously dilapidated condition and requires urgent attention.

    Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the NPTF, Mohammed Sheidu, explained that the project is part of the Fund’s deliberate efforts to address the long-standing accommodation challenges faced by police personnel across the country. He disclosed that as the groundbreaking commences, “the project will be delivered with transparency, quality, and speed.”

    He went on to thank the Enugu State Government for the provision of the land, describing it not merely as a parcel of land but as a symbol of partnership, trust, and shared responsibility reflecting the governor’s commitment to security and improving the welfare of those who protect the community.

    Sheidu assured that the project would contribute significantly to the welfare of police officers by preserving their dignity, ensuring stability, and creating an enabling environment for officers and their families.

    He noted that the development forms part of a broader nationwide intervention by the Trust Fund, which includes the construction and rehabilitation of police barracks, training institutions, operational infrastructure, and other welfare-focused projects implemented in collaboration with states, communities, and strategic partners.

    The Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Ogbodo, expressed excitement over Ozalla being selected for the construction of the six-man rank-and-file quarters, considering the poor accommodation situation for police officers in the division.

    “I have been here before and saw where the police are staying, and I said, ‘The police are suffering.’ Thank you so much for bringing this project to Ozalla. It is a great initiative. By the time it is completed, I am sure this place will have a fine edifice,” he said.

    He further commended CP Giwa for his commendable efforts in maintaining law and order in the state and reaffirmed his unwavering support for the police within Nkanu West.

    A traditional ruler of an Ozalla Community, Igwe Sylvanus Okeke, expressed joy at witnessing the groundbreaking ceremony and the commencement of construction. He recalled that in the 1970s, when the land was first allocated to the Nigeria Police, nothing significant was done on it until a structure was later erected. He noted that the facility, now used by people beyond the Ozalla community, has enhanced peace and security in the area.

    The President General of ODU, Obiora Okwuibe, appealed for the strengthening of the Ozalla Police Division to enable it to effectively manage security challenges arising from heavy traffic along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, which intersects with Ebonyi, Udi, and Anambra roads.

    He also urged the contractors to construct buildings that would stand the test of time by using appropriate and durable materials.

  • Aiyedatiwa Marks 61st Birthday With Amnesty for Seven Ondo Inmates

    Aiyedatiwa Marks 61st Birthday With Amnesty for Seven Ondo Inmates

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has marked his 61st birthday with an amnesty for seven inmates serving various sentences in correctional centres across the state.

    The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, announced the gesture in a statement on Tuesday, describing it as an extension of the clemency granted to 77 inmates on January 1.

    “In a continued demonstration of compassionate and humane leadership, Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy by granting outright pardon and release to seven additional convicts serving various sentences in correctional facilities across the state,” the statement read.

    Adeniyan said the beneficiaries were selected after verified assessments of remorse, good conduct, rehabilitation records, and prospects for reintegration.

    “Their outright release underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s firm belief in the principles of restorative justice, prison decongestion, and the provision of second chances to those who have demonstrated meaningful change,” he added.

    Kayode Ajulo, SAN, chairman of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, commended the decision, saying it reflects a balanced approach to justice.

    According to him, the latest pardons “reaffirm his administration’s commitment to balancing accountability with mercy, reforming the justice sector, and promoting a society where redemption is possible.”

    The governor had earlier freed 77 inmates on New Year’s Day following recommendations from the advisory council.

    Adeniyan said the gesture “underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s deep commitment to rehabilitative justice, second chances, and the humane side of governance,” adding that the administration remains focused on ensuring that the justice system blends accountability with com passion.

  • Gov. Eno directs commissioners to present 2025 scorecards, targets for 2026

    Gov. Eno directs commissioners to present 2025 scorecards, targets for 2026

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has directed commissioners to render accounts of their stewardship, including reports of achievements recorded in 2025 and projections for 2026.

    He stressed that all plans must align strictly with the ARISE Agenda of his administration.

    A statement obtained from the Government House Press Unit on Tuesday said Eno gave the directive while declaring open a two-week ministerial briefing at the State Executive Council Chambers in Uyo on Monday.

    He said, “From today, the 12th of January to about the 21st, we will be holding daily ministerial briefing sessions, taking presentations from members of the Executive Council, Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

    “I urge the Council Members to use this opportunity to give full account of their Ministries, including staff strength, achievements in 2025, and plans for 2026, not only as it is in the budget, but in alignment with the ARISE Agenda.

    “Together, we can consolidate the achievements of this administration and ensure that our work continues to improve the lives of the people of Akwa Ibom State. This will be a busy year of expansion and growth, building on all the great work we have done in the past two and a half years.

    “We also want to remain dedicated to expanding our developmental footprints under the ARISE Agenda to benefit all Akwa Ibomites. We have zero tolerance for excuses, this is the year for action and results.”

    The governor explained that the briefing was convened to frontload the state’s priorities and set a clear agenda for continuous and effective service delivery in line with the ARISE Agenda.

    He added, “This briefing is convened to frontload the State’s priorities and set a clear agenda for continuous and effective service delivery in line with the ARISE Agenda of his administration.

    “The exercise is aimed at ensuring early, focused, and efficient delivery of government programmes, particularly as the year will combine governance with political activities.”

    Eno urged council members to mobilise their constituents to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise, as well as the e-registration of the All Progressives Congress.

    In his brief remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, commended the governor for his leadership and fatherly disposition in the State Executive Council, while also thanking him for the briefing initiative, particularly the unprecedented briefing-before-briefing, assuring that members of the executive council were ready to deliver.

    Unveiling the presentation schedule, the Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Adviser, Aniefiok Johnson, said the briefing would commence immediately with the Ministry of Works and the Fire Service. Punch

  • Peter Obi questions President Tinubu’s foreign trips, absence

    Peter Obi questions President Tinubu’s foreign trips, absence

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has accused President Bola Tinubu of being absent at a time the country needs him the most.

    In a statement on X on Monday, Obi questioned the President’s visibility as Nigeria battles deepening poverty, hunger, insecurity, and rising unemployment, noting that the country is projected to have about 140 million people living in extreme poverty by the end of the year, the highest figure globally.

    He said Nigeria is grappling with one of the hungriest populations in the world, worsening insecurity, an unemployment crisis affecting over 80 million youths, and alarming infant mortality rates that make the country one of the worst places to be born.

    According to him, President Tinubu spent 196 days outside the country in 2025 alone, a period he said exceeded the time the President spent within Nigeria despite the scale of the national crises.

    Obi also faulted the President’s silence since December 2025, alleging that Nigerians entered the New Year without a presidential address or national broadcast, while reports suggested the President was on holiday in Europe.

    He argued that the lack of direct communication from the President during critical moments has left Nigerians anxious and uninformed, especially on major security issues, including reported U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil, which he said citizens learned about through foreign media and official statements from the United States rather than from their own government.

    The former Anambra State governor said the situation reflects a failure of leadership, stressing that governance requires presence, direct engagement and clear communication with citizens, not press releases or second-hand briefings.

    He further criticised the President’s participation in foreign summits while remaining largely absent at home.

    He wrote, “Where is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?

    “This is not just a question; it’s a critical demand for accountability in a national emergency. As we approach the end of this year, Nigeria will be home to approximately 140 million people living in extreme poverty—the highest number in the world. We are grappling with one of the hungriest populations globally, staggering insecurity, an unemployment rate exceeding 80 million among our youth, and one of the worst places to be born, with infant mortality rates worse than those of a nation seven times our size.

    “In the midst of this chaos, where has our President been? Spending 196 days abroad in 2025 alone—more than he has spent within his own country, at a time when we face profound crises.

    “Since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard a word from their President. Reports indicate he opted for a holiday in Europe while the nation was plunged into a New Year marked by hunger, anxiety, and uncertainty. There was no New Year address, no national broadcast, no leadership voice to provide reassurance or guidance.

    “This lack of presence starkly contrasts with what we see in comparable developing nations where leaders step up in times of crisis. In Nigeria, following U.S. military strikes on our soil, our President remained silent. Instead of directly addressing the nation, Nigerians learned about these critical events from foreign media, American officials, and the vague communications from the Presidency’s aides known for their propaganda, rather than from their own leader.

    “This is not governance; it’s neglect. The President was seen abroad yet again for another summit while remaining absent from his own country when he is needed the most. Earlier this year, he even sent an AI-generated image to the nation instead of addressing his people face-to-face.

    “Are we to believe Nigeria is being governed, or is it merely being managed from elsewhere? Leadership is not simply issuing press releases; it’s about standing before the people, engaging with them, and offering clarity.

    “We are not asking for perfection; we demand presence. Nigerians are eager to hear from their President through direct media briefings. They deserve to understand the state of their country. You cannot run Nigeria like a personal business or a private club; it is imperative to rebuild and grow our economy through unity and clarity.

    “Progress is impossible without unity and consensus, and it begins with strong leadership that sets the tone. No policy, reform, economic plan, or security measure can thrive in a divided nation. When leadership withdraws, unity falters, and the fabric of our society unravels under the weight of mistrust and division.

    “In a time of crisis, the absence of leadership is not just troubling; it is perilous. Silence in the face of crisis is the loudest form of failure.

    “A New Nigeria is not just POssible; it is essential. -PO”

  • Rangers Secures Fashion Apparel Deal with Nzapi

    Rangers Secures Fashion Apparel Deal with Nzapi

    Doris Ewoh, Enugu

    Rangers International Football Club has secured a fashion apparel and manufacturing partnership with Nzapi Fashion Brand to produce rebranded shirts, face caps, and costumes for the club and its supporters, aimed at boosting the club’s revenue.

    The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place on Monday, January 12, 2025, at the Rangers FC office in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Enugu, with officials from Nzapi Fashion Brand in attendance.

    The General Manager of Rangers FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, describing Nzapi as “a fashion and apparel design and manufacturing company that understands not just fashion but culture, identity, and storytelling.”

    On the identity of Rangers and the significance of the collaboration, Ezeaku said:

    “We are not just a football club. We are history, pride, resilience, and a symbol that cuts across generations since our establishment in 1970. This partnership is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: Rangers must look like where we are going. With Nzapi, we are committing to merchandise that speaks to the younger generation, who see Rangers not only on the pitch but as a lifestyle brand.

    “And then the older generation, who carry the memories, values, and legacy of this great club. The merchandise going forward will not just be worn – it will be felt. It will tell stories of tradition, stories of excellence, and modern ambition.”

    Ezeaku also described the partnership as a strategic business decision, noting that merchandising is key to financial sustainability in modern football.

    “Our vision is clear: to professionalize Rangers…to expand availability locally and internationally, creating products that fans are proud to own, wear, and pass on. We are deliberately building Rangers into a self-sustaining institution, where football success is supported by strong commercial foundations like Nzapi.”

    Expressing gratitude to Nzapi and the supporters, he added:

    “From us to Nzapi, we say thank you for believing in this vision and for choosing to grow with us. It is a partnership built on shared values and long-term ambition. And of course, to our fans, whom we will see on Wednesday, being Matchday: this partnership is for you. It’s for your pride. It’s for your identity. It’s for your connection to Rangers and the Rangers movement.

    Our Correspondent reports that the Creative Lead of Nzapi, Mr. Odinaka Ugwuozor, said the partnership symbolizes storytelling through apparel, noting that Rangers represents more than football. He described Rangers as “not just a football club but a carrier of the history of a particular region.”

    “This isn’t just about a collaboration with Rangers, but a way of promoting what we are deeply rooted in. This is a signal of intent and our commitment to helping drive something that is deeply rooted in our culture. This is beyond us. Rangers will outlive us. Nzapi will outlive us. And this is our commitment to ensuring that this is perpetually structured. That’s the idea.”

  • Lagos gov’t orders probe of death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son, as hospital breaks silence on accusation

    Lagos gov’t orders probe of death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son, as hospital breaks silence on accusation

    Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered for a probe into the alleged medical negligence that reportedly led to the death of Nnamdi Nkanu, son of renowned Nigerian author, Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private healthcare facility in Lagos.

    The governor gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), following public concern generated by Ms. Adichie’s account of the tragic incident, which occurred on January 6.

    In a press statement signed by the Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, he expressed deep condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss of a child as “a profound tragedy.”

    “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement read.

    The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state.

    “Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the State,” the statement added.

    According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, HEFAMAA has already commenced investigation into the matter and has visited the facility involved.

    “The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to unraveling the immediate and remote causes of the death,” Ogunyemi said.

    She explained that the investigation would involve a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties connected to the case.

    HEFAMAA, she noted, would also collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism in the process.

    “The Agency will work in close collaboration with the MDCN and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a holistic, credible, and professional review process,” she stated.

    The government assured Lagos residents that the findings of the investigation would be made public.“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” Ogunyemi said.

    She warned that any health facility or professional found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

    “Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law, in accordance with existing legal and regulatory frameworks,” the statement declared.

    While urging the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, the state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and health of all residents.

    “Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” Ogunyemi said.

    The government extended its condolences to Ms. Adichie and her family, assuring them that justice and due process would not be compromised.

    Euracare Hospital Empathises with Chimamanda Adichie, Clarifies Circumstances of Son’s Death 
    Euracare Multispecialist Hospital has expressed deep sympathy to renowned writer Chimamanda Adichie and her family over the death of their son, describing the loss as profound and heartbreaking.
    In a statement issued by its management, the hospital extended its “deepest sympathies” to the family, noting that the loss of a child is “beyond words.”
    It assured the family of its continued support during what it described as a deeply distressing period.
    The hospital, however, said it was necessary to clarify what it termed inaccuracies in some reports circulating about the incident.
    According to Euracare, the patient was critically ill and had been referred to its facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment for a period of time at two paediatric centres.
    It stated that upon the patient’s arrival, its internationally trained clinical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated.
    The hospital added that it worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by the family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.
    “Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility,” the statement said.
    Euracare further disclosed that it has commenced a detailed investigation in line with its clinical governance standards and best practices, stressing its commitment to transparency and responsible engagement with all clinical and regulatory processes.
    “As medical professionals, we carry the weight of this loss deeply,” the hospital said, adding that its priority remains compassion, patient safety, and the responsible handling of the matter, while respecting the family’s privacy and allowing due process to take its course.
  • Chimamanda Alleges Negligence by Lagos Hospital as Cause of Son’s Death

    Chimamanda Alleges Negligence by Lagos Hospital as Cause of Son’s Death

    Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who recently lost her 21-month-old son, has released a statement detailing the circumstances surrounding his death.

    According to ARISE News, “ARISE News reached out to Adichie’s media team, who confirmed that she did author the statement. According to her representatives, the message was originally sent privately to family members and a few close friends”.

    The message which has since gone viral on social media is reproduced below:

    My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th.

    We were in Lagos for Christmas. Nkanu had what we first thought was just a cold, but soon turned into a very serious infection and he was admitted to Atlantis hospital.

    He was to travel to the US the next day, January 7th, accompanied by Travelling Doctors. A team at Johns Hopkins was waiting to receive him in Baltimore. The Hopkins team had asked for a lumbar puncture test and an MRI. The Nigerian team had also decided to put in a ‘central line’ (used to administer iv medications) in preparation for Nkanu’s flight. Atlantis hospital referred us to Euracare Hospital, which was said to be the best place to have the procedures done.

    The morning of the 6th, we left Atlantis hospital for Euracare, Nkanu carried in his father’s arms. We were told he would need to be sedated to prevent him from moving during the MRI and the ‘central line’ procedure.

    I was waiting just outside the theater. I saw people, including Dr M, rushing into the theater and immediately knew something had happened.

    A short time later, Dr M came out and told me Nkanu had been given too much propofol by the anesthesiologist, had become unresponsive and was quickly resuscitated. But suddenly Nkanu was on a ventilator, he was intubated and placed in the ICU. The next thing I heard was that he had seizures. Cardiac arrest. All these had never happened before. Some hours later, Nkanu was gone

    It turns out that Nkanu was NEVER monitored after being given too much propofol. The anesthesiologist had just casually carried Nkanu on his shoulder to the theater, so nobody knows when exactly Nkanu became unresponsive.

    How can you sedate a sick child and neglect to monitor him? Later, after the ‘central line’ procedure, the anesthesiologist casually switched off Nkanu’s oxygen and again decided to carry him on his shoulder to the ICU!

    The anesthesiologist was CRIMINALLY negligent. He was fatally casual and careless with the precious life of a child. No proper protocol was followed.

    We brought in a child who was unwell but stable and scheduled to travel the next day. We came to conduct basic procedures. And suddenly, our beautiful little boy was gone forever. It is like living your worst nightmare. I will never survive the loss of my child.

    We have now heard about two previous cases of this same anesthesiologist overdosing children. Why did Euracare allow him to keep working? This must never happen to another child.

  • Minister Udeh Deepens Senate Collaboration to Drive Renewed Hope STI Agenda

    Minister Udeh Deepens Senate Collaboration to Drive Renewed Hope STI Agenda

    The Honorable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochi Udeh, SAN, has paid an official familiarization visit to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Distinguished Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Executive and the Legislature in advancing Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) agenda.

    The Minister, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Philip Ndiomu, expressed appreciation for the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda continues to provide strategic direction for the repositioning of the STI sector as a catalyst for national development.

    Dr. Udeh reaffirmed the President’s commitment to building a responsive and result-driven STI ecosystem capable of accelerating economic diversification, industrial growth, and global competitiveness.

    He emphasized the importance of sustained synergy between the Ministry and the National Assembly in ensuring effective policy implementation and timely passage of critical legislation.

    In his response, Distinguished Senator Aminu Iya Abbas welcomed the Honorable Minister and assured him of the Senate Committee’s full legislative support, including expeditious consideration of bills and programmes related to the Ministry and its agencies.

    He expressed confidence in the Minister’s capacity to deliver on the STI mandate in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The visit featured strategic discussions aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration and accelerating Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation development.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together in the national interest to advance innovation-led growth in Nigeria.

  • Soludo Donates 30 Operational Vehicles to Nigeria Police to Boost Security

    Soludo Donates 30 Operational Vehicles to Nigeria Police to Boost Security

    Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has donated 30 operational vehicles to the Nigeria Police, Anambra State Command. The handover is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity and deepen community safety.

    Recall that last year, the state government had donated 170 operational vehicles to security agencies in the state.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Soludo reflected on the imperative of security, recalling that in January last year, his administration launched the Agunechemba law alongside Operation Udo Ga Achị, a joint task force designed to combat the wave of criminality that once ravaged many parts of Anambra.

    “Twelve months after, the difference is clear,” he said, noting the marked improvement in peace and order.

    The Governor credited the security agencies for their unwavering vigilance.

    “Thanks to the security agencies for keeping awake to make sure we sleep.” He highlighted that these efforts have encouraged a mass return of Anambra indigenes to their communities this Christmas, confident in the safety of their homeland.

    Governor Soludo further emphasized that security remains a top priority.

    “Security is too important in Anambra. It is a continuous work in progress.”

    He reminded the audience that last year, 170 vehicles were provided to security agencies, and this new addition of 30 Hilux vehicles is specifically for the Nigeria Police Force to enhance mobility and responsiveness in fighting crime and keeping the State safe.

    Receiving the vehicles on behalf of The Police Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, expressed gratitude for the augmentation in resources, recognizing the vehicles as critical tools for effective policing and rapid response to threats.

    The donation is expected to improve patrolling, curb criminal activities, and reinforce the state’s positive security trajectory.

  • Uzodimma Unveils  Imo Vigilante Organisation To Beef Up Security

    Uzodimma Unveils  Imo Vigilante Organisation To Beef Up Security

    Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has officially inaugurated the Imo Vigilante Organization, marking a strategic move by the State Government to strengthen community-based security and enhance public safety across Imo State.

    The event which held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, brought together government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders. According to the Governor, the establishment of the vigilante organization is part of ongoing efforts to complement formal security structures and support grassroots cooperation in crime prevention.

    The Governor also noted that creating a safe and stable environment remains essential for fostering development and sustaining economic activities in the State. He emphasized that the vigilante group will operate under clear regulations and in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, ensuring professionalism and respect for human rights.

    The Imo Vigilante Organization is expected to commence operations immediately, with its members drawn from various communities across the state to work closely with traditional institutions, youth groups, and security formations.

    #HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

    In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) is a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security.

    He noted that the initiative represents a bold, strategic, and visionary step toward addressing security challenges and ensuring a peaceful future for all residents of the state.

    According to him, the establishment of the Imo State Security Organisation signals the beginning of a new era of peace, safety, and prosperity, pointing out  that the outfit was created in response to growing concerns over crime and insecurity in various communities.

    The Commissioner commended Governor Uzodimma for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the security and wellbeing of Imo people. “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.

    He expressed optimism that the new security organisation would strengthen collaboration between conventional security agencies and local communities, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.

    The Commissioner therefore called on residents to cooperate with the Imo State Security Organisation and actively participate in community safety initiatives, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

    The high points of the event was the unavailing of security provided by the State government for the 27 Local Governments of the State, as well as awards to Best Legal Lecturer, Best Parade Commander, Best in Drills, Best Guard Commander, Best LGA Chairman on Mobilization  Skills, Best in Academics and Best Behaved Recruit.

    Present at the event were; the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru,  Senators representing Imo West and North – Senators Osita Izunaso and Patrick Ndubueze,  members of the House of Representatives, members of the State House of Assembly, the  Secretary to Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council and other government appointees, Local Government Council Chairmen, Councillors, Heads of Security Agencies and Para-military, traditional rulers among others.

  • AFRD: DCG Igwesi Commends Mbah’s Sustainable Support for Nigerian Legion

    AFRD: DCG Igwesi Commends Mbah’s Sustainable Support for Nigerian Legion

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has been commended by the Deputy Commandant General and Enugu State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Dr Emeka Norman Igwesi, for his support to the welfare of Nigeria’s ex-servicemen and fallen heroes.

    Igwesi made the commendation during the official unveiling and launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem held at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, on Tuesday.

    “Your government has been giving us support and we are actually asking them to do more to support the fallen heroes’ project the more they can and also support the project of the living heroes, not necessarily by way of cash, but by introducing programmes and policies that will help the welfare of the military retirees and fallen heroes’ dependants and widows.

    Dr. Emeka Igwesi, who is also the National Coordinating Commandant, Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires, regretted that many of promises made to the veterans by individuals and corporate organisations during emblem launch and Armed Forces Remembrance Day were usually not fulfilled.

    “Yearly, we gather here to be part of this emblem launch. Some climb this hallowed podium, addressing Nigerians, make pledges and promises, and end up not redeeming them. It is very unfortunate,” he said.

    He, however, commended Mbah for always living up to his words and for the good governance of Enugu State, which also benefits the ex-servicemen and their families.

    He also pushed for a better utilisation of the skills and experience of the ex-servicemen by government, stating that while they were retired, many of them were not tired yet.

    “But we express our profound felicitation and strong support for the governor, for the good works he is doing in the state. You will agree with the military ex-servicemen that Enugu state is fast becoming a modern state.

    “Again, military veterans are highly disciplined and experienced persons. Many are still strong to contribute to the development of the state. The body also has its sub-body called Corps of Commissionaires, who are well trained and young and ready to serve, so we call on the state government to make effective use of the retired military men and our members of the Corps of Commissionaires,” he said.

    He also highlighted other needs such as security vehicles, monthly subvention, offering scholarships to indigent children and orphans of both fallen and living heroes, and empowering widows of servicemen, which he appealed to the governor to look into.

    Igwesi further described Gov. Peter Mbah, in his words, as “the best governor in the world”.

    Speaking, Mbah extolled the sacrifices of Nigeria’s ex-servicemen and fallen heroes for the safety of citizens and the nation’s territorial integrity.

    The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, advocated a better structured and more sustainable means of ensuring a better welfare for the Nigerian Legion.

    “It is important that we express to you how we feel about your selfless sacrifices, secure our democracy, strengthen our ability and above all protect our integrity – ensuring that each and everyone of us is able to explore and exploit our God given talents. So, on behalf of the people of Enugu State, I must say that we are very grateful to you.

    “While veterans’ day, as this when we commemorate the service and make contributions to support you, I think a sustainable relationship through a structure that is organised will make more meaning. So, struggle to put together a programme, engage our office, the government, develop a protocol of engagement on how we can work with you to make things right, meaningfully and sustainably, for those that served.

    “Again, we are a government that has embarked on aggressive efforts to rebuild Enugu State and expand opportunities for those who live here. In a state where we assemble 800 tractors for agriculture, where we are building farm estate in every political ward, where we are expanding our road infrastructure, constructing 260 Smart Schools, 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres, I am sure, if you look inward and develop an engagement protocol, we will be able to develop a partnership that will be sustainable and beneficial to you and to us as a people.

    “So, today is not much about the donations only, but it is about the acknowledgement of the sacrifices that the veterans made – sacrifices rooted in the personal willingness to lay their lives for the rest of us,” he stated.

  • Lagos to establish leadership academy for young people

    Lagos to establish leadership academy for young people

    The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development said it had concluded plans for the 2026 Ibile Youth Academy.

    This was announced on Thursday by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, at the state secretariat, Alausa, where he reeled out the lineup of activities for the programme.

    According to Ogunlende, the physical screening of applicants will hold from January 5 to 9, 2026, while training will run from January 26 to 29, 2026, across the five divisions of Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.

    He said a one-day leadership seminar would be held on different days from February 3 to 5, 2026, while the residential boot camp would take place afterwards.

    In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, stressed the importance the ministry attaches to the annual programme.

    Oke-Osanyintolu said, “The Ibile Youth Academy is one of the major programmes of the ministry, designed to inculcate in our youth the virtues of volunteerism, citizenship and leadership.

    “It is aimed at equipping young people, who are expected to take over the mantle of leadership from adults, with everything they need to perform even better than their predecessors in any walk of life they find themselves in.

    “This programme, which aligns perfectly with Mr Governor’s youth development policy under the THEMES Plus Agenda, has over the years produced young leaders who are making waves in different spheres of life.”

    The Permanent Secretary noted that the overall best participant would be selected as the State Youth Ambassador, while the next five outstanding participants would be chosen as divisional ambassadors representing the five divisions of the state.