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Tag: Ogakwu Dominic

  • ICPC, Master Agent Show Unveil Nationwide Anti-Corruption Debate to Empower 50,000 Students

    ICPC, Master Agent Show Unveil Nationwide Anti-Corruption Debate to Empower 50,000 Students

    In a groundbreaking effort to combat corruption through education, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), in partnership with Master Agent Show, has launched the Basic Education Anti-Corruption Debate (BEAD), a nationwide initiative that will engage more than 50,000 junior secondary school students across Nigeria.

    The program, unveiled in Abuja on Thursday, is designed to instill values of integrity, accountability, and transparency in young Nigerians by engaging them in structured debates on pressing civic and ethical issues. According to Osigbeme Enike, Managing Director of Master Agent Show, BEAD represents more than a competition.

    “BEAD is not just a debate series, but a movement,” Enike said. “By equipping students with the tools of critical thinking, civic responsibility, and public speaking, we aim to raise a generation that will resist corruption and drive sustainable progress in Nigeria.”

    Over 5,000 schools across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to participate, debating on themes such as “Citizens’ Character” and “Who Ends Corruption?” The debates will be broadcast on Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) FM stations, BE TV’s digital platforms, and other media outlets, potentially reaching an audience of more than 10 million listeners and over one million online viewers per episode.

    The ICPC, under the leadership of Chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has pledged technical support and oversight to ensure the program aligns with Nigeria’s broader anti-corruption strategies. Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, Mr. Okoh Odey, Deputy Director of Education at ICPC, emphasized the commission’s commitment to sustainability.

    He explained that beyond classroom debates, structures such as Vanguard Clubs and Community Development Service (CDS) groups will reinforce the lessons, while teachers and non-teaching staff will play an active role in guiding students. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will also ensure the program remains relevant and impactful.

    The initiative is further anchored by a Memorandum of Understanding between ICPC and Master Agent Show, which also supports complementary campaigns like the “5 Principles Against Corruption” Poster Campaign and the “Pillars of Anti-Corruption” Sponsorship Initiative.

    Ogakwu Dominic, Director of Marketing and Advertising, highlighted the role of investment and support in sustaining the project. “The time is now to catch our young ones early and expose them to activities that instill lifelong principles of integrity and accountability. We cannot leave them at the mercy of content with little or no value,” he stressed.

    For more information please kindly, visit the website link… http://bead.com.ng

  • CSOs Laud Refugee Commission’s Open-Door Policy, Pledge Stronger Partnership, Support for National Impact

    CSOs Laud Refugee Commission’s Open-Door Policy, Pledge Stronger Partnership, Support for National Impact

    •  As Federal Commissioner Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency, Unveils Plan for Dedicated CSO Desk Office

    Over 50 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from across Nigeria on Thursday converged at the headquarters of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Abuja, on a high-level courtesy visit to Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed.

    The powerful delegation was jointly led by Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor, Chairman of the CSO Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), and Ogakwu Dominic, President of the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), alongside leaders of several civil society organizations in Nigeria.

    Welcoming the delegation, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed commended the critical role of CSOs in strengthening democracy, accountability, and policy implementation. He emphasized that under his stewardship, the NCFRMI has embraced an open-door policy designed to encourage dialogue, inclusivity, and collaboration in the humanitarian sector.

    The Commissioner highlighted some of the Commission’s notable achievements, particularly in states such as Nasarawa, Benue, amongst others, where thousands of displaced persons, migrants, and asylum seekers have benefited from timely relief interventions, shelter support, and empowerment initiatives.

    “Our mission is not just to provide immediate relief but to restore dignity, build resilience, and ensure long-term rehabilitation for our displaced brothers and sisters. We are determined to leave no one behind,” Ahmed declared.

    Also in a major step to deepen transparency, the Federal Commissioner agreed to suggestions by announcing plans to establish a dedicated CSO Desk Office within the Commission. According to him, the new desk will serve as a direct liaison point with civil society groups, ensuring smooth collaboration, stronger oversight, and due diligence in all NCFRMI activities.

    Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor hailed the Commissioner’s performance, describing the visit as “one of a kind.” He noted that Aliyu Tijani Ahmed has set a new benchmark for leadership in public service.

    “As a performing public steward, you have earned the confidence of civil society. The CSOs present here today, and those across the wider coalition, will continue to support and rally around you to ensure that the Commission achieves its mandate,” Agbonkpolor stated.

    Corroborating his remarks, Ogakwu Dominic lauded Ahmed for his humility, responsiveness, and openness to partnership. He stressed that the collaboration between the Commission and CSOs would set a new standard for humanitarian governance in Nigeria.

    The visit not only underscored the growing synergy between government and civil society but also signaled a new chapter of accountability, inclusivity, and partnership in addressing Nigeria’s displacement and migration challenges.

     

     

  • CSOs Laud Tinubu’s Commitment to Constituency Development

    CSOs Laud Tinubu’s Commitment to Constituency Development

    •  .…Pledges Support to Personal Assistant, Hon. Khadijat Omotayo

    Civil Society Organizations CSOs, have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to grassroots development, particularly through the strategic establishment of the Office on Constituency Affairs.

    This commendation was made during a courtesy and familiarization visit to Hon. Kareem Khadijat Omotayo, the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, at her office on Thursday.

    The visit, convened by Comrade Ogakwu, President of Civil Groups for Good Governance, aimed to foster collaborative and progressive engagement between members of different CSOs and the esteemed office of the personal assistant.

    In his opening remarks, Comrade Ogakwu applauded President Tinubu for appointing competent, vibrant and diligent youths to sensitive roles, citing the appointment of Hon. Kareem Khadijat Omotayo, as a testament to the President’s commitment to inclusivity and youth empowerment.

    The visit witnessed the participation of prominent leaders of civil society organizations, including Comrade Victor Itsede, Executive Director of the Restore Nigeria Integrity Initiative (RNII); Comrade Chris Ofomhi, Executive Director of the Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI); Comrade Francis Adariku; Comrade Adewale Wilson; Comrade Clement Boniface; and Comrade Amarachi Evangel, among others.

    Also speaking, Comrade Victor Itsede, reiterated the important role of CSOs in supporting the office which includes, identifying abandoned projects while holding parties involved accountable. He emphasized that such effort, would ensure that public resources are utilized effectively to benefit the Nigerian citizenry, especially at the grassroot level.

    The CSO leaders unanimously pledged their support for Hon. Khadijat Omotayo Kareem, expressing readiness to collaborate closely with her office to meet the targets set by the President in creating the Office on Constituency Affairs.

    They emphasized their commitment to ensuring the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims at transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.

    Meanwhile, in her address, Hon. Kareem Khadijat Omotayo, expressed profound gratitude to the CSOs, for their unwavering support and solidarity.

    She reaffirmed her dedication to upholding integrity, which she described as the hallmark of her mentor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She also assured the CSOs of her commitment to working tirelessly to fulfill the mandate of her office and contribute to the development of constituencies across the nation.

    Omotayo however, urged the CSOs to prioritize detailed and factual assessments before presenting inquiries or concerns, stressing that evidence based findings, assessment, would strengthen decision making, enhance the effectiveness of her office while ensuring the success of its objectives and the broader Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

     

     

     

  • CSOs Condemn Protest, Call for Resignation of NCOS Comptroller General

    CSOs Condemn Protest, Call for Resignation of NCOS Comptroller General

    The Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) has condemned the recent protest and calls for the resignation of Comptroller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS) over the alleged illegal detention of Major Gen. Umaru Muazu Mohammed.

    Addressing newsmen on Wednesday, CSGGG President Chief Ogakwu Dominic stated, “We, the civil society groups for good governance and other allied well-purposed civil society organizations, condemn the sponsored protest, misinformation, and resignation campaign.

    “We believe in upholding the truth and promoting good governance. We support the NCOS’s efforts in fulfilling its mandate, as well as the military’s efforts to maintain discipline and ensure accountability within their ranks.

    ” We will not stand idly by while mischief-makers attempt to tarnish the reputation of the NCOS, its Comptroller General, and the military.”

    Dominic urged the public to be cautious of sponsored protests and misinformation campaigns, appealing to CSOs to prioritize truth and integrity in their advocacy efforts.

    He requested that the military continue ensuring transparency and accountability in their operations.

    The group aims to correct what it sees as gross misinformation regarding the alleged illegal detention of the Army General.

    Dominic emphasised the importance of discipline in the military, quoting George Washington: “Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable, procures success to all of the weak, and esteem to all.”

    He noted that anyone who has erred, regardless of their standing in society, should face disciplinary actions if found culpable.

    He added that recently, a group of CSOs allegedly sponsored by interests intent on discrediting the NCOS and its leadership staged a protest requesting the resignation of Comptroller-General Haliru Nababa and the release of Maj. Gen Umaru Muazu Mohammed from Kuje Prison.

    Dominic stressed that the protest was orchestrated to distract from the genuine efforts of the NCOS in providing custodial care for inmates and the military in maintaining peace and security.

    “The NCOS does not carry out arrests. Arrests are typically performed by law enforcement agencies such as the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services,” he saaid, adding that the accusations against the CG of NCOS by the George Uboh Whistle-Blowers Network are baseless.

    He clarified that Major General Umaru Muazu Mohammed was handed over to the NCOS after his conviction and sentencing by a military court-martial and is now serving his sentence at Kuje Correctional Center.

    Dominic concluded by urging the public to verify information through official channels before accepting it as true, asserting that the protest and resignation campaign aim to mislead the public and undermine the military’s authority.

  • TCN: Coalition Debunks Corruption Allegation Against Engr. Sule Abdulaziz

    TCN: Coalition Debunks Corruption Allegation Against Engr. Sule Abdulaziz

    A coalition of over 180 Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, CSGGG has debunked and exonerated the management of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN of any corruption and underhand dealings.

    Addressing newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday, the convener of CSGGG, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, expressed concern over the accusations circulating against the management of the Transmission Company.

    “As CSOs, we are duty-bound to investigate any information we receive and ensure none are unjustly punished without appearing sentimental, self-seeking, or unpatriotic.

    “We have engaged the management of TCN, and it is on record that the MD/CEO is a man who has instilled a standing and verifiable tradition of prudent management of scarce resources, leading to notable achievements.

    “These accomplishments will soon become visible as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, as the decades of rot in the sector can not be wished away overnight,” he said.

    Dominic said the allegations revolve around claims made by an online news outlet, suggesting that TCN’s managing director purchased an exotic car for the Hon. Minister of Power as a bribe.

    He, however, said TCN management clarified that the vehicle was procured as part of official responsibilities to support the minister’s office.

    He further highlighted the challenges facing TCN, including disruptions caused by bandits, gas supply shortages, and unethical conduct by generation and distribution companies.

    “We urge Nigerians to proffer solutions to the problems facing the power sector rather than politicizing them,” he said.

    Ogakwu emphasized that the continuous harassment of TCN’s management is taking an unpatriotic turn. He cautioned against unjust intimidation and harassment, advocating for transparency and adherence to due process.

    He said, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of Engr. Sule Abdulaziz’s continuation in the office reflects a commitment to professionalism and diligence in the power sector.

    “We commend and urge the management of TCN to remain committed to fast-tracking solutions to the challenges bedevilling the power sector,” he said.

    The organisation’s stance underscores the need for collaborative efforts to address Nigeria’s power sector challenges and achieve stable electricity supply for all citizens.

  • Stop Peddling Falsehood Against Sen.Yayi- CSGGG Cautions Yewa/Awori Youth Network

    Stop Peddling Falsehood Against Sen.Yayi- CSGGG Cautions Yewa/Awori Youth Network

    • Says Senator Yayi’s purposeful representation has no equal

    An assemblage of over 180 civil society organization in Nigeria, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, CSGGG, has warned the socio-democratic group, Yewa/Awori Youth Network, against making false assertions, accusations and inflammable statements capable of denying their district, further benefits from the federal government.

    Reacting to a statement made by the network, accusing the Senator representing Ogun West at the National Assembly, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi of allegedly personalising projects funded by the federal government; the group described the statement as an unsubstantial and baseless finding politically orchestrated and sponsored to bring disrepute to the commitment and milestones attained by Yayi.

    The President of the group, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, in a press statement made available to newsmen on Thursday, equally faulted the allegations that the senator had connived with some federal government agencies to portray projects funded by the federal government as one done from his personal coffers. He emphasized that projects introduced or executed by Yayi, should serve as a source of pride not a source of political witch-hunting.

    The statement reads: “As watchdog of the society and as first hand observers who were invited by the organizers of the three days empowerment programme of Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola aka Yayi, our attention has been drawn to the recent publications by Yewa/Awori Youth Network, against Senator Solomon Yayi. While it is obvious as usual that political traducers and co-travelers are on the verge of series of campaign of calumny against a performing steward and it may not be too necessary to dignify their action, it is also equally important to put the record straight to avoid the pitfall of a poor public perception of the good intentions of what can be described as the “Mother of all empowerment” as we cannot sit back and allow their fabricated tales gain momentum for even a second.

    “Senator Yayi, has never taken personal credit for project executed, in fact if the network did their due diligence without bias or have the interest of Ogun West as they claimed, by keenly recording the empowerment schemes of Senator Adeola, they would have discovered that Yayi, has always, disclosed and given credit to the MDAs where Zonal Interventions Projects are domiciled or facilitated from. Also he openly stated that the projects were facilitated to enhance and improve the district that has suffered lack of major development for the longest time as a result of bad representation and incapable leadership.

    “For deeper understanding, in the scholarship and bursary schemes as alleged by the network, Senator Yayi indicated that it was in collaboration with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), for the ICT training on security, he facilitated for traditional rulers in Ogun West, he mentioned it was done in collaboration with the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), and in the area of empowerment of artisans and various vocational trainings, he categorically disclosed that it was in collaboration with the Nigeria Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research.

    “We believe that the Yewa/Awori Youth Network, are just fault finders and puppets to shadow parties, that are invested in diagnosing loopholes in political positions they have interest in. May we reiterate that Senator Yayi’s empowerment programs are unprecedented in annals of National Assembly empowerment initiatives, because it takes only a transparent, committed, visionary and accountable leader like Yayi to carry out such massive initiatives. The network should take pride in the achievements not fight or work to condemn it, because such as we all know can bridge further initiative or benefits.

    “Yewa/ Awori Youth Network attack on Senator Yayi, is very inconsequential and also a sheer display of ignorance because the people have come to realize the benefits of complete entrenchment of dividends of quality representation first hand through the Adeola aka Yayi’s empowerment schemes across the five local government areas in the senatorial district. From their watery accusations, it is now a known fact that the network, lack an understanding of the workings of the National Assembly and Zonal Intervention Projects as domiciled in the MDAs.” It added.

  • Edu Gate: Coalition Fault Attempt To Link Minister Tunji-Ojo to Fradulent Allegations 

    Edu Gate: Coalition Fault Attempt To Link Minister Tunji-Ojo to Fradulent Allegations 

    . ..Urges the public, media to desist from curating opinions and false hot takes on the Minister of Interior 

    A coalition of over 180 Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, identified as Civil Society Groups for Good Governance in solidarity, has refuted the incessant public opinion regarding the involvement of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in a N438 million contract with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

    In a press briefing organised in Abuja on Wednesday, the group amid the recent media campaign, mudslinging seeking for the sack of the minister, stated that he Hon. Tunji-Ojo remains one of the best-performing cabinet ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the President Bola Ahmed government.

    The statement which was read by the President of the Coalition, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, the coalition emphasized the need to clarify situations, maintain decorum, and discourage biased perceptions.

    ” Our attention has been drawn to the recent allegations of fraudulent activities besieging the ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and her minister, our concern however is the baton of judgement it has on other persons who are in no way connected to the allegations, hence the need for this press briefing with the above-mentioned subject matter.

    “As watchdogs of the society, we are not partisan to social media judgement, court or condemnation, we do not buy into activities of keypad warriors casting aspersions; therefore, we condemn in all its entirety the discordant public opinion regarding the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’ involvement in the N438 million Humanitarian Ministry Contract and we aim to set the record straight for clarity and for the avoidance of public biased perceptions and judgement.

    “It is a well-known fact that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has repeatedly exonerated himself, providing evidence, from any involvement in the controversial N438 million contract scandal related to the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu.

    “Additionally, the Minister, Mr. Tunji-Ojo, presented a certified document from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), confirming his resignation from the company five years ago. He has no business with the said company—absolutely no business—because he’s not involved in the day-to-day running of the company.

    “He also does not pursue jobs for the company, does not bid for the company, and is not a signatory to the company’s account. May we reiterate that “HE IS NOT INVOLVED AND SHOULDN’T BE ROPED IN, THOSE INVOLVED SHOULD BEAR THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR ACTIONS ALONE.” He added.

    Ogakwu noted Tunji-Ojo’s commendable efforts within a short tenure in office, emphasising his commitment to the Interior Ministry’s mandate and national development.

    “While social media platforms have been rife with criticism, the Minister has shown exceptional leadership by spearheading significant reforms, bringing about efficiency and progressive change across various agencies under his purview,” Dominic added.

    He urged the public to recognize the Minister’s achievements, citing instances such as the swift clearance of a passport backlog at the Nigeria Immigration Service and efforts to secure funds for prison inmates’ fines, which eased congestion in correctional facilities nationwide.

    The convener concluded by commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift response in suspending those directly involved in the sharp practices exposed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, according to him, the act goes to show that the recent administration, is committed to nipping corruption in the bud to afford Nigerians and Nigeria the giant strides it deserves as part of its strategy in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda.

     

  • Jackson Ude, a Grand Patron of Calumny, Yellow Journalism, Deceit, and Cheap Blackmails- Coalition warns

    Jackson Ude, a Grand Patron of Calumny, Yellow Journalism, Deceit, and Cheap Blackmails- Coalition warns

    A foremost coalition of Civil Society Organizations based in Abuja identified as Civil Society Groups for Good Governance CSGGG, on Wednesday, warned well-meaning Nigerians and the general public at large to disregard and desist from indulging Mr. Jackson Ude, an unverified self made journalist, according to report.

    The group in a press release signed by its President, Comr. Ogakwu Dominic, revealed that Ude has overtime used his personal media platform to form defamatory opinions, and engage in a pattern of destructive behavior capable of tarnishing reputations of highly placed persons or those he feels are vulnerable in the eye of the public.

    According to the report, Ude had recently started a campaign of calumny and character assassination against the Director General of the Department of State Services(DG) Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi bothering on misconduct.

    The group reiterating the need to scrutinize sources of information before publication; buttressed that the allegation of misconduct on Alhaji Bichi is obviously the outcome of office grapevine and a total misrepresentation of intent.

    ” As Nigerians begin to get disillusioned with the anachronistic and biased journalism practiced by Jackson Ude, the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, CSGGG, has urged all true patriots to be wary of his constant journalistic entreprise, calumny. Ude is a puppet of shadow parties that thrives on yellow journalism, blackmail and character assassination.

    ” A background check on Ude activities revealed and raised serious questions about the credibility of his accusations. This man has actively indulged in misrepresenting informations which is capable of tarnishing images and lowering the morale of performing public stewards. Bichi has committed all effort as the DG of the DSS in fighting insecurity and safeguarding the lives of Nigerians, he shouldn’t by any means be rewarded by weighty accusations without proof or evidence.

    “As a group, committed and actively involved in policy reforms, shaping public opinion and actively engaging public institutions and officials at all levels, we maintain that no amount of intimidation and coercion from politicians and paid hands will stop civil society organizations from defending credible institutions and officials who are excelling in their positions, or have contributed in the entrenchment and continuity of democracy service to his nation.

    President of the group, following a rather unprofessional and crude attack by Jackson Ude on CSOs in response to an expose of his sustained misinformation against the DSS and its incorruptible Director General (DG) Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, OFR fwc, the group insisted that no amount of blackmail can bring the integrity of Nigeria’s number one spy agency to disrepute.

    “According to the statement, “Nigerians should know that Jackson Ude is a serial blackmailer who is not only paid to blackmail the DSS but any civil society organisations (CSOs) that rise to the defense of truth. He is clearly on the payroll of failed politicians who frustrated by the uncompromising stance of the DSS during last year’s elections have vowed to take their pound of flesh. However their insistence, such politicians will continue to fail as Nigerians are well aware of the great work the DSS is doing and the amount of pressure it is getting from desperate and failed politicians.

    “Nigerians should know that Jackson Ude is a serial blackmailer who is not only paid to blackmail the DSS but any civil society organisations (CSOs) that rise to the defense of truth. He is clearly on the payroll of failed politicians who frustrated by the  uncompromising stance of the DSS during last year’s elections have vowed to take their pound of flesh. However their insistence, such politicians will continue to fail as Nigerians are well aware of the great work the DSS is doing and the amount of pressure it is getting from desperate and failed politicians.

    “Jackson Ude needs to go to court if he has a genuine case against the DSS and its management as a responsible citizen and stop hiding behind baseless, sponsored, fallacious threats to carry out the wishes of his paymasters.

    “Let us reiterate that the extreme desperation, attempts by the fugitive journalist to cast aspersions on the integrity of independent CSOs, some of which are sponsored by international agencies will not be tolerated. Nigeria’s democracy has matured with formidable civil rights group who act as watchdogs and hold government institutions and officials accountable for their actions. Insinuating that these army of dedicated and focused Nigerians are compromised is a wallow card and just another typical strategy of a deceitful conniving blackmailer.” It added.

    The group, however, again called on well-meaning Nigerians to shun all forms of campaign of calumny and ntimidation sponsored to discredit very powerful and effective institutions of state.

  • Coalition Decry Allegations of Connivance of NCoS Personnels In Terrorism Financing 

    Coalition Decry Allegations of Connivance of NCoS Personnels In Terrorism Financing 

    • Calls for inter-agency collaboration amongst government institutions

    A foremost coalition of over 180 civil society organizations in Nigeria , Civil Society Groups for Good GGovernance CSGGG, has decried in all entirety allegations of connivance in terrorism financing made against personnels of the Nigerian Correctional Service by the Chief of Defense Staff and mode of information dissemination.

    It revealed that such a public declaration of sensitive information, has raised concerns, as this could compromise ongoing security efforts against insurgency.

    The President of the group, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, during a world press briefing in Abuja on Sunday, noted that it is imperative for the CSOs to address some sundry issues bothering on information sharing and collaboration as it concerns matter of national security, because CSOs remain a formidable stakeholder in the nation’s project.

    Recall, on Tuesday 21st November, 2023, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa during a public hearing by the House of Representatives, had alleged that some personnel of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS ) are conniving with inmates in terrorism financing of proscribed members of terrorist organizations.

    According to Comr. Ogakwu, courtesy of the highly intelligent nature of this information which plays a major role in the overall management of people’s security architecture, it is worrisome that the reputable Military Chief, threw caution to the wind in making such pronouncement publicly.

    He said: “One would naturally expect that as part of demonstrating inter-agency collaboration among government institutions and given the sensitive nature of such information, the CDS should have engaged the NCoS management discreetly to swing into a covert operation in fishing out the culprits rather than been influence by the gallery of the national assembly knowing fully well that divulging very sensitive information to the general public is injurious and equally a setback to the fight against insurgency. This is because coordination, management and utilization of information is very key in waging the war against terrorists and other criminals.

    “Ideally, it is expected that there should be a synergy between the military and paramilitary organizations in stemming the tide of insecurity in Nigeria. The non – kinetic approach to the fight against terrorism excludes direct or conventional military strategies and can only thrive on information warfare.

    “As a thorough technocrat, we urge General CG Musa to always refer to the National Crisis Management Doctrine (NCMD) for effective, efficient, and coordinated management of national crises to bridge the gap created by extensive deployment of security services. The NCMD is deployed by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to foster collaboration among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure greater success in tackling national crises. And this can only be achieved if there is a continuous healthy and robust synergy among security agencies.”he said.

    The president of the group, emphasized on the need to take security serious as it is a collective business that is anchored on collaboration among the various security agencies, civil society, the media, and the coordinating Office of the National Security Adviser.

    ” It will therefore be right to assume that this lack of inter-agency collaboration was among the reasons why the collective security forces were not able to repel terrorists when the Kuje Custodian Centre came under attack on July 05, 2022.

    “However, it is pertinent at this point to commend the Hon. Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo who quickly swung into action by launching an investigation against the officials of NCoS in order to fish out the culprits.”

    Extolling the Minister’s initiative to free 4000 inmates in various custodial centres cut across the country, Ogakwu however, called on President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to support the initiative of previous administration to carryout massive infrastructural revolution of the nation’s outdated correctional facilities in line with international best practice as exemplified by the 3000 maximum facility in Kano which the Service says it is working tooth and nail to replicate same in other geo-political zones of the country.

    He noted that such development, will further reduce the pressure on the manpower of the current officers of the NCoS in order to discharge their functions excellently.

    “While we may never imagine casting aspersion on the integrity of the military knowing fully well their selfless sacrifice of ensuring internal security and the sovereignty of our fatherland, we are however obliged to call on them to come to agreement on issues of de-radicalization of repentant terrorist since our researches showed that procedures such as ‘de-radicalization’ is an exclusive right of the NCoS.” Ogakwu added.

    Finally, the coalition tasked the national assembly on the need to overhaul, remodel their approach of interfacing on issues bothering around security to avoid publicly divulging valuable information that can assist in the fight against insecurity.

     

     

     

  • Diversify Economy By Focusing On Untapped Sectors- Stakeholders Urge FG

    Diversify Economy By Focusing On Untapped Sectors- Stakeholders Urge FG

    Stakeholders from various sectors have called on the Federal Government, FG, to diversify the nation’s economy by focusing on all untapped sectors such as tourismoand also make a significant U-turn from over reliance on petroleum resources.

    The call was made by the executive director, Advocacy for Good Ethics and Accountability Development, AGEAD, Mr. Henry Thomas at its 2nd legacy summit, held, during the week, in Abuja.

    They emphasized that Nigeria possesses vast arable land, a large labour force, and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, which could be harnessed to drive growth and create employment opportunities.

    Thomas addressing newsmen, said: “The year 2023 has been a very challenging and difficult year for almost everyone in the country. Nigeria, as a country, has no business with poverty. The country has rich natural and human resources.

    “Nigeria was a leading producer of many sectors such as the apparel, garment, arts and crafts, cosmetics, and the beauty industry and agro-commodities contributed immensely to the growth of our nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    “However, the discovery of oil in 1956 marked a major setback to other important productive sectors of the country’s economy. Oil has been almost like a national anthem ever since my existence, but it is quite unfortunate that leaders have come and gone without a solution. It is on this note that it is imperative to think and proffer solutions because the only way is to know the problem and the solution finds its way.

    “The message I’m trying to pass is that our adventure and expedition into oil for the past 60 years hasn’t led us anywhere and it is time for us to make a U-turn back to where we are coming from, let’s go back to Agriculture, let’s go back to mining, let’s go back to culture and tourism, let’s go back to technical education and production.”

    Speaking on the need for the country to tap into the wealth of the creative industry, the Rector Federal Polytechnic Auchi Edo state, and former Director of Performing Arts, National Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Sam Agbi said: “Tourism goes for a reason, there must be an attraction. Without attraction, there is no tourism.

    “You leave your house for a purpose. You don’t just travel just like that, there must be a reason and so you marry tourism and culture. But, in the case of Nigeria, it is only cultural tourism that we have a comparative advantage.

    “Nigeria has no comparative advantage when you say you want to develop beach tourism. Which mountain do you have that you can compare with others in the world? Is it wildlife? Is it conferences, I don’t know for now. So, the only tourism we can market is cultural tourism and if we develop that aspect of cultural tourism, Nigeria has to have a huge amount of money in terms of foreign exchange and arrivals.

    “One of the qualities of this creative industry for instance is that some of them are a royal economy, they stimulate the royal economy because they are residing with the people. Whenever I tell my children that I want to travel home, they will say ok because there is a policy of you have to follow me to know your home.

    “So, what I am saying is that the incentives at home are not favorable. Nobody would want to stay in the village and not have facilities but those with wealth, those with creative industries, most of them are in the village, they reside with the people. If you don’t develop it, you’re not developing the rural economy. If a government really wants to develop that aspect of the economy, it is helping to generate income for the people that dwell in that environment.”