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Group backs ongoing reforms in Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, list reasons

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CG,Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi
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A Civil Society group operating under the umbrella of National Council for Civil Society Organizations and Vision One Leadership Development Initiative has thrown weight behind the ongoing reforms at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The Director General of the group, Comrade Emmanuel Johnny,. speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday described the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi as a very active with sound intellectual propensity to deliver on mandates.

The group averred that it was important for all Nigerians to see security as strategic to the wellbeing of citizens, hence, it’s no wonder that the appointment of Dr. Audi by President Muhammadu Buhari was a welcome development, given his capacity and commitment.

The urged charlatans to keep off from activities and the ongoing reforms in the Civil Defence Corps as the development was already yielding positive results.

They posited: “For us, Dr. Ahmed Audi’s intellectual mobility, security professionalism, wide intra-NSCDC experience and presentable public personality are clear signs that his meritorious appointment as NSCDC Commandant-General is in the best interest of national security and wellbeing in Nigeria. We again thank Mr. President for this good appointment.

“Since the new Commandant-General, Dr. Audi, fully assumed office in NSCDC some eight months ago, we have carefully taken note that he has been implementing a spate of progressive reforms in the Civil Defence.

“Undoubtedly, Dr. Audi which has been clearly repositioning the Corps for greater professionalism and better security service delivery to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The group chided some elements who they said were trying to distract activities in the agency by unnecessarily accusing the leadership of unsubstantiated allegations.

“While observing and carefully documenting these new positive trends in the NSCDC, we have recently been rudely shocked by the unbelievable display of senseless and baseless activism by some unknown and faceless actors claiming to be Civil Society activists against the progressive reforms being presently implemented in NSCDC by Dr. Ahmed Audi.

“These shadowy ‘Civil Society’ actors have recently insulted every sense of decency and truth by their false claims that the nascent administration of Dr. Audi in NSCDC is guilty of Corruption.

“As the legendary Archbishop Desmond Tutu once said: “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.

“We, therefore, have chosen not to be silent or neutral in the face of this great accusatorial injustice to this fine and distinguished Senior Nigeria Law Officer whose is meritoriously serving his fatherland at this point in our history when national security is our topmost national priority.

“We have chosen not to fold our hands and watch some furtive ragtag forces of injustice persecute and oppress Nigeria through their clear evil agenda to weaken national security by their attempt to take a principal national security actor down for reasons best known to them only.

“For us, we have seen the new NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Audi, as a progressive reformer and outstanding security professional.

According to the group, they were convinced that since the incumbent Commandant General came on board few months ago, he has achieved much to be allowed a breathing space to continue the good works, which they maintained are, “Safe School Initiative which includes the establishment, training and commissioning of a formidable, well-kitted Female Squad to checkmate the menace of kidnapping of school children in the country.

The initiative, they claimed, has been replicated in all Civil Defence State Commands across the country.

“The vulnerability survey of all schools in the country to determine the number of schools that are prone to attack by bandits and kidnappers; and, this has helped in developing strategies for schools’ protection in Nigeria.

“Staff Welfare which includes the placement of personnel on their respective appropriate ranks. The fostering of steps towards payment of staff promotion arrears.

“The sanitization of the promotion process and the successful release of the 2019 promotion exercise and distribution of letters to successful personnel across State Commands.

“The recently completed promotions have been received as one of the most transparent and meritorious in the history of the Corps.

“The promotion of all junior officers; level 03, 04, 05 and 06. The payment of disengagement allowances to retirees who were abandoned and had lost hope of survival.

“The payment of burial benefits to over 120 next of kin of deceased personnel long forgotten.

“The issuance of Group Personal Accident cheques to over 30 officers and men who suffered varying degrees of accidents in the cause of discharging their duties within the last five years.

“The promotion of some Deputy Commandants who have been stagnant on their rank for ten or more years to the rank of Commandant. The provision of 200 units of two bedrooms and three bedrooms housing for junior and intermediate officers.

“Capacity Building which includes the roll-out of operational vehicles and equipment to different departments and directorates”, they noted.

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Appreciation: “We Are Grateful for Your Support” – Ajia

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By AbdulRahman Obaje

The Ajia Ogbonde family of Ilorin has expressed deep and heartfelt appreciation to individuals, families, religious leaders, institutions, dignitaries, and well-wishers who stood by them during the mourning period following the passing of their beloved matriarch, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia.

In a press statement personally signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the Dan Amanar Fune, on behalf of the family, the Ajia Ogbonde clan expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences received from across the country and beyond.

Describing the support as overwhelming, the family acknowledged the role played by those who participated in the Janaza rites at the National Mosque, Abuja, and those who made time to attend the 3rd Day and 7th Day Fidau prayers held in Abuja and Ilorin respectively, despite their tight schedules.

“We are truly grateful to everyone who stood in solidarity with us during this painful moment. Your presence, prayers, and words of comfort meant so much to us,” the statement read.

The family offered special thanks to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Mai-Martaba Sheikh (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, for his fatherly support and spiritual leadership during the mourning period.

They also appreciated His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fune, Dr. Idris Saleh Uthman, for honouring the family through a powerful delegation led by the District Head of Cubana to the Abuja Fidau prayer.

The statement listed an array of dignitaries and high-profile personalities whose presence and messages of condolence brought great comfort to the bereaved family. These include former Senate Presidents Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) and Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin, and former Inspector-General of Police IGP MD Abubakar (CFR).

Also acknowledged were former Kwara State Governor, HE Abdulfatah Ahmed, former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former Minister of Power, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, current Senator representing Kwara Central, Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Sen. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, former DG of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, and Prof. Oba Abdulraheem, former Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.

The sitting Governor of Kwara State was represented by Alhaji Abdulrazak Jidda at the 7th Day Fidau prayer in Ilorin.

Other prominent individuals and community leaders recognized for their support include Alhaji Tajudeen Ibrahim Eleku, Alhaji Toyin Abubakar, Prof. Zanna Mohammed (Nile University), Alhaji Mohammed Bukar, Sarkin Sumaila Alhaji Bello Dansumaila, Engr. Musa Saidu, Engr. Ibrahim Usman, Engr. Kamaldeen Ubandawaki, Barr. Ismail Ahmed, Alhaji Mohammed Adamu Cimo, and executives of Saiha Network.

Particular gratitude was extended to the Council of Ulama of Kwara State, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir (CON), and the FCT Council of Ulama, including Sheikh Abdulkadir Oba Sholagberu, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, and Sheikh Sharafudeen Aliagan, for their spiritual guidance and physical presence during the mourning.

The family also commended members of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly Courses 21 and 36/2002, various youth groups, political party stakeholders from the PDP, APC, and a new coalition party, as well as War College Estate Muslim Community and Resident Association, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council, and the business and academic communities.

Also mentioned among the sympathizers were Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Alapasanpa (Danmasani of Ilorin), Sarauniya of Ilorin, Hajia Muinat Shagaya, Hajiya Saadat Dogobauchi, Princess Aisha Bubaram (ED North, First Bank Plc), Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Sen. Haliru Jika, Hon. Ibrahim Jimba Baba, Hon. Nalaraba, Hon. Kabir Tukura, Hon. Jaafar Mubi, Chairman of Sobi FM, Alhaji Lukman Mustapha, Hon. Ladi Hassan, Engr. Kale Kawu, Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki, Hon. Ahmed Yinka Aluko, Hon. Muktar Shagaya, Alhaji Sheriff Shagaya, Alhaji Hakeem Shagaya, former Kwara Assembly Speakers, Hon. Ali Ahmad and Hon. Razaq Atunwa, as well as the executives of IEDPU and IEYDPU.

“We are indeed overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support during our moment of grief. The legacy of our beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia, lives on in our hearts,” the family stated.

The Ajia Ogbonde family concluded the message by praying for Allah’s mercy upon the departed soul and asking for divine blessings upon all who shared in their pain.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants our dear mother Aljannatul Firdaus and continues to unite us in peace and brotherhood. We shall forever remain grateful.”

Late Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia was a revered matriarch known for her piety, wisdom, and compassion. Her life, the family said, remains an enduring source of inspiration and spiritual strength.

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Ododo Mourns Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ododo in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described President Buhari’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria, but to the African continent, and indeed the world.

He described President Buhari as a leader of quiet strength, deep convictions, and a patriotic heart wholly committed to the unity, progress, and stability of Nigeria.

Ododo further described the death if the former president as “a moment of national grief and a reminder of the enduring legacy of discipline, integrity and sacrifice that President Buhari stood for.

“President Buhari was a man who came at different times in our national history to steer the ship of state with a deep sense of responsibility.

“He was not a man of many words, but one whose actions consistently reflected his belief in a better, safer, and more self-reliant Nigeria.”

“Kogi State will remember him for his commitment to critical infrastructure, national security, and his consistent stand against corruption.

“His efforts laid a solid foundation upon which successive administrations, including ours in Kogi, continue to build.

“We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Katsina State, the family of the late statesman, and indeed all Nigerians, as we mourn a patriot who gave his all in service to the nation.

“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”

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DG Kogi State Government House Administration Honors Outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Samuel

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By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

Director General of the Kogi State Government House Administration, Dr (Alh) Shuaibu Umar Oricha, July 10, 2025 in Lokoja described Mr. Samuel Olajide JP as “truly worth celebrating,” commending his humility and exceptional character. “I have no doubt that he is heading to greater heights. He should prepare for even bigger responsibilities,” Alhaji Oricha said.

Dr Oricha during a Sendforth Party Organized by the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the Pooled PRS Staff noted that he was always happy with the level of dedication of the celebrant, stressing that any time it was the time for budget preparation and the celebrant was around , I will always go and sleep because a capable hand is available.

“Today I can stand tall to congratulate you as a permanent secretary of Budget and Economic Planning.
I stand bold to say that your have retired but not tired.
I want to personally appreciate you for recognising yesterday. You are indeed a normal human being”
On behalf of Government Administration I wish you success in your endeavours” he said.

He also assured the Celebrant that the Governor, the Chief Servant of the state His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo was aware of your retirement adding that the celebrant deserves higher responsibility.

The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, praised Mr. Samuel’s tireless role in developing the State Development Plan, emphasizing the importance of diligence and integrity in public service. “When given a task, do it with all your heart. The results will speak louder than the praises of men,” Hon. Idris stated.

Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, noted that Mr. Samuel’s name became synonymous with excellence during his tenure, thanks to his ability to lead with empathy and empower others. “This transition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter,” Mr. Evenemi added.

The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sarah Ocheja, who commended Mr. Samuel for his service and mentorship.

Amb. Idris Muriana, Chairperson of the Kogi NGOs Network, also praised Mr. Samuel’s people-oriented mindset and commitment to serving the public.

Mr. Olajide Samuel, the outgoing Permanent Secretary of Budget in Kogi State’s Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, was celebrated for his dedication, impactful contributions, and meritorious service. He was praised of his humility, exceptional leadership, and commitment to fiscal discipline.
The ceremony highlighted Mr. Samuel’s achievements and the impact of his service on Kogi State’s development

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