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Addressing Insecurity in Northern Nigeria: The Defence Ministry, CNG Approach

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By Nura Ibrahim Birnin Magaji

The recent approach by the Defence Ministry and the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) to address insecurity in northern Nigeria is a step in the right direction.

This approach will lead to improved, sincere and determined collaboration among the northern states Governors, the federal government, and other critical stakeholders in the region to tackle the root causes of insecurity.

It is evident that the insecurity in northern Nigeria has led to the loss of lives and property as the activities of armed bandits and other criminal elements have made lives unbearable for people within the region. Banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism have become common occurrences, and the region is in dire need of effective solutions.

There now seems to be a ray of hope with the collaboration between the Defence Ministry and the CNG which has already begun to yield positive results, aiming to permanently resolve the rising insecurity in Zamfara state and ultimately the entire northern region.

The collaboration between the government and CNG to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens, especially in the northern part of the country, is focused on bringing lasting peace to the region through rapid military response, dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.

Though it could be a step in the right direction towards ending insecurity in Nigeria, it is important however, to note that this problem cannot be solved by this collaboration alone.

First, the northern states Governors must necessarily collaborate with the Federal Government and other critical stakeholders in the region to address the root causes of insecurity and come up with effective solutions that will benefit everyone.

It is theseccollaborative efforts between the government, security agencies, civil society organizations, and communities affected by insecurity that will ensure that everyone is involved in finding lasting solutions to this problem.

Addressing the root causes of insecurity is also crucial. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education are some of the factors that contribute to insecurity in Nigeria.

It is therefore important that these issues are addressed holistically to prevent future occurrences. Furthermore, dialogue and mutual respect among all parties involved are essential for sustainable peace. It is important that everyone’s views and concerns are heard and taken into consideration during discussions aimed at resolving conflicts.

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With this realization, a delegation from the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) was mobilized to the Zamfara State capital, Gusau, to assess the situation regarding the recent attacks on the Federal University, Gusau that resulted in the abduction of yet to be specified number of female students by heartless bandits.

While in Gusau, the CNG delegation interacted with various stakeholders, including officials from the state government, the affected families, community leaders, security agencies, and representatives from the academic community. During one of those interactions, the Gusau University authorities expressed gratitude to the Military for its commendable efforts and gallantry in response to the threats to the university community.

They emphasized the importance of strengthening security measures within the university premises to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors. However, they also stressed the need to strengthen security measures within the university premises to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors.

They acknowledged the presence of a military formation at Kwatarkwashi, approximately five kilometers from the campus, which is understaffed with very few troops deployed. Whenever they receive another distress call at Magami, Wanzamai, or Kuceri, also within their area of coverage, the University environment becomes porous and vulnerable, leaving it open to potential danger. As a solution, they proposed establishing a security outpost to replace the current mobile formation and be permanently dedicated to securing the campus and Sabon Gida community where most students reside.

The CNG team observed that the lack of fortification fencing and security ditches around the university has caused concerns among many individuals, highlighting the need for urgent measures. Similarly, the State Government also recognized the troops’ efforts in combating the attackers, despite the insufficient number of personnel available. The government suggested deploying additional contingents to reinforce the current ones and recommended establishing a commission to coordinate efforts, allocate resources, and implement development programs in Zamfara State and the entire North-West region, similar to the Niger Delta and North East Development Commissions.

While presenting their findings and recommendations regarding the security situation in Zamfara and the North-West to the Minister of State Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawale, the CNG emphasized the need for the government and security forces to combat insurgency in Zamfara with determination and adherence to legal obligations.

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The group also stressed that achieving full cessation of hostilities, disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration in the entire region is imperative for declaring victory. The Minister was moved by the report and promptly instructed for a military outpost to be established near the university campus as request by the University authorities and supported by the CNG report, with the sole responsibility of securing the campus.

After receiving the report and recommendations from the CNG, Matawalle pledged to work with the federal Ministry of Education to begin and complete the fencing fortification around the university premises. He also stated that the Defence Ministry will provide ditches around the campus. Matawalle recognized Nigeria’s courageous troops and praised the new sense of collaboration between frontline states and the strong determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the battle against banditry and kidnapping in Zamfara and other North-West states.

Additionally, he applauded the CNG for its proactive approach and willingness to collaborate with the Federal Government in addressing security concerns in the North-West region, specifically in Zamfara State. It is no secret that the security situation in Zamfara state has negatively impacted agriculture, transportation, and other economic activities in the state, leading to a huge loss of revenue. Therefore, this initiative will not only bring about relief to the residents of Zamfara state but also serve as an economic boost.

It is imperative that the Zamfara state government, along with all stakeholders, key into this initiative as it offers a glimmer of hope for a region that has been constantly bleeding. The coalition’s efforts, in collaboration with the defense minister, have shown that a solution to the insecurity problem plaguing the north exists.

The initiative also has the potential to create a conducive environment for economic growth and development within the region. All stakeholders must give their support for the success of this initiative, and the Zamfara state government must lead the charge. The role of the entire northern states Governors in this initiative cannot be overemphasized. They need to work closely with the federal government and other stakeholders to identify the root causes of insecurity in their respective states and come up with effective solutions to be implemented and coordinated collectively address them.

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One of the critical stakeholders in this initiative is the local communities. They are the ones directly affected by insecurity, and their input is essential in developing effective solutions. The traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations in the region also have a vital role to play in the initiative. The federal government, on its part, needs to provide the necessary support to ensure that the initiative is successful. This support includes funding, logistics, and security personnel.

It is unfortunate that while the Ministery of Defence and the CNG were working diligently towards a common goal, the state Governor of Zamfara State Dauda Lawal was away in New York. This absence may have hindered the progress and coordination of the efforts being made. The actions of the Governor the day of the attack on the Gusau University campus are inexcusable. Abandoning the state and staying incommunicado for several days is not only irresponsible but also sends the wrong message to the people of the state.

It is insensitive for him not to stand with his people during times of crisis and work towards finding solutions to the challenges facing his state. Now that the Governor has returned, people are understandably waiting to see what he will do next. It is essential that he comes off the high horse and reach out to the Federal Government to for effective coordination of efforts to address the security concerns in the state and work towards ensuring that such attacks do not happen again. He should keep in mind that leadership comes with great responsibility, and it is imperative that he understands the gravity of his actions and how they impact the people he leads. In times of crisis, leaders must stand strong and provide reassurance to their people that they are working towards a resolution.

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Police Arrest, Recover Firearms Ammunition From Notorious Gunrunner In Sokoto

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By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command haa successfully arrested a notorious gun runner along Sokoto-Gusau highway and  recovered illegal arms and ammunition in his possession.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Police Command, ASP Ahmed Rufai said there officers 
attached to Tureta Police Station acted on credible intelligence while conducting “a stop-and-search operation”. 

“‘The operation led to the interception and arrest of Murtala Abubakar, a 45-year-old suspect from Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State””.

Continuing, ASP Rufai mentioned items recovered from the suspect to include,  
“”Four (4) locally fabricated rifles, Three (3) locally fabricated pistols, Sixteen (16) rounds of AK-47 ammunition and Three (3) rounds of G3 ammunition'””. 

While noting that the command remained committed to curbing crime and criminality, ASP Rufai reassured that their intensified efforts towards  mobbing up proliferation of illegal arms and fighting crime of all nature is paying off. 

The Police Spokesperson, Rufai who further noted that, the suspect and recovered exhibits have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Sokoto, for further discreet investigation, quoted the Commissioner of Police Ahmed Musa as saying, “”This operation reflects our unwavering commitment to public safety. We urge citizens to continue providing timely intelligence to aid our efforts in dismantling criminal networks.”  

“”The Sokoto State Police Command remains dedicated to ensuring security across all communities and calls for sustained collaboration with residents to achieve lasting peace””. CP Musa appealed. 

  

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Tory MPs Convene to Discuss Potential Leadership Change After Poor Local Election Results

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In light of disappointing local election outcomes, members of the UK Conservative Party will gather this week to deliberate on the possible removal of their leader, Kemi Badenoch. The urgency stems from a growing concern about the party’s future following significant gains by Reform.

Two senior Conservative backbenchers have confirmed to The Independent that they are initiating discussions with fellow MPs regarding a leadership change. “We cannot continue as we are; she (Ms. Badenoch) is simply not equipped for the task,” stated one MP.

This move follows a disheartening election where the Conservatives lost 15 councils and 674 seats, raising alarms about the party’s viability. Concurrently, Nigel Farage announced that his party has eclipsed the Conservatives to become the primary opposition to Labour, securing 676 seats and overall control of 10 councils.

One Conservative MP remarked, “These results are actually worse than those from last year’s general election. We have somehow regressed.”

Kemi Badenoch’s Conservatives faced a significant defeat last Thursday, resulting in the loss of hundreds of councillors and control of 15 councils.

Reports indicate that several Tories have approached Robert Jenrick to consider another leadership bid just six months after his previous attempt failed. While some plotting against Ms. Badenoch are her critics, sources claim that discussions regarding her future involve members beyond the usual factions.

Former Foreign Secretary Sir James Cleverly is also reportedly positioning himself as a centrist alternative to the right-leaning Jenrick, as noted in the report. Over the weekend, Sir James expressed to GB News that while he supports Badenoch, he remains open about a potential leadership bid should the opportunity arise.

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Critics within the parliamentary party have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of a clear strategy to counter Reform. An initiative to garner her backing for an anti-Reform task force—drawing on former allies of Farage from Ukip and the Brexit Party—was reportedly ignored, despite backing from prominent Brexiteer Sir Bill Cash.

One senior backbencher commented, “I feel as if I’ve been banging my head against a brick wall trying to determine the strategy for confronting Farage and Reform. There has been nothing.”

Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, notably shared on X that all Tory council candidates in his Newark constituency had won, amid a backdrop of hundreds of Tory losses across the country. He dedicated his weekend to fundraising efforts in various regions.

However, one MP voiced concerns: “If we allow Kemi another year, it could spell disaster for us. There are no policies, no ideas, no strategy, and she lacks charisma.”

MPs are assessing that previously secure seats in regions like East Anglia, Essex, Kent, and southern England could be at risk based on last week’s results. There are also grievances regarding her selection of senior staff, particularly former MPs like Rachel MacLean and Therese Coffey. “They just don’t seem to grasp the severity of our situation,” another MP remarked.

Nonetheless, Tory MPs are also wary of new regulations requiring a third of them (currently 41 MPs) to trigger a vote of confidence through letters to the 1922 Committee chair, Bob Blackman. While MPs have yet to publicly advocate for Badenoch’s removal, some Conservatives have.

Jason Smithers, the former Tory leader of North Northamptonshire Council, publicly called for Badenoch’s resignation following the election results, stating, “I cannot comprehend how a party leader can remain in position after such dismal results nationwide.”

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Phillip Blond, director of the ResPublica think tank and former advisor to David Cameron, has echoed calls for Badenoch to step down. However, she remains resolute in her position. In an interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Badenoch argued against the notion that leadership changes can swiftly rectify issues, asserting that the party’s current challenges will not be resolved in six months. She emphasized, “This isn’t merely about winning elections; it’s about remedying our country.”

Despite her statements, Badenoch’s interview seems to have heightened concerns among MPs. One senior MP noted, “She speaks as if we have ample time to turn things around. We do not. It may already be too late. She has left a significant gap for Nigel Farage to occupy.”

Members of the shadow cabinet are attempting to alleviate tensions, advising Tory MPs against moves to unseat Badenoch, emphasizing that she “needs time.”

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FG inaugurates NYSC reform committee to review policies

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The Federal Government has inaugurated the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Reform Committee to review existing policy documents and propose comprehensive reforms to ensure the scheme remains effective and responsive to current national needs.

Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday during the inauguration of the committee.

He noted that the NYSC had long been a pillar of national integration, promoting unity across Nigeria’s diverse cultures while providing young Nigerians with valuable life experiences.

“Today signifies an important step forward in our collective journey to improve one of Nigeria’s most valuable national institutions dedicated to unity, empowerment, and development,” Olawande said.

He emphasised the vital role the NYSC had played in fostering national unity and youth development since its inception in 1973, but stressed that it was now time to reassess and modernise the scheme to reflect contemporary realities and challenges.

“As the nation advances, we must improve the institutions that support its development.

“While the NYSC has made remarkable progress, it also faces significant challenges, particularly concerning the safety of corps members, infrastructural deficits, and questions about the scheme’s relevance in a changing socio-economic landscape,” he said.

Olawande explained that the committee’s mandate includes conducting a comprehensive review of the scheme, assessing its current operations, and proposing reforms to make it more secure, innovative, and impactful.

“Our goal is to transform NYSC into a platform that offers youth better opportunities in skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and career development,” he added.

“The committee will also review existing policy documents, laws, and reports guiding the NYSC; engage in consultations with stakeholders nationwide; and recommend legal, policy, and institutional reforms, including improved funding and monitoring frameworks.

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“A comprehensive report is expected to be submitted to the Minister of Youth,” he said.

In her remarks, Hajiya Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, stressed the need to restructure technical and vocational training in alignment with academic development.

She said such reforms would enable young people to make long-term contributions to their communities and the country.

Also speaking, Minister of State for Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, proposed the creation of a Teachers’ Corps and Medical Corps for NCE-certified graduates and healthcare professionals, especially those willing to serve in rural areas for a voluntary two-year period.

He said the Teachers’ Corps would help address educational gaps and offer a path to government employment, while the Medical Corps would strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved communities, particularly in maternal and child health.(NAN)

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