National News

Tinubu Expresses Commitment to Fight Against Illicit Drug

Published

2 years ago

September 26, 2023

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Tinubu Expresses Commitment to Fight Against Illicit Drug

By: Michael Mike

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the ongoing fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country, insisting that there is need for conceited efforts from all across the world to curtail the global drug problem.

The President also assured he would continue to provide necessary support and tools for the nation’s anti-narcotics agency, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA to fulfil on its mandate.

Tinubu, gave the assurances on Tuesday while declaring open the 31st meeting of Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF) in Abuja.

Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the President said: “This administration will continue to provide the necessary support, motivation, and tools for the NDLEA to fulfill its mandate.”

He said: “We understand the connection between the success of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking and the attainment of a number of goals on our socio-economic and security agenda.

“For us, the commitment to the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse is not just a matter of policy; it is a moral imperative. We recognize that a population at war with drugs is not a dividend but a liability. We believe that the future of our youth, the strength of our institutions, and the well-being of our communities depend on our ability to eradicate this threat.

“So, I must appeal to you to see this gathering as an avenue for the exchange of novel ideas and the development of practical strategies. We must consolidate established contacts, operational partnerships, and cooperation to ensure that the outcomes of this four-day deliberation advance public safety and the emergence of drug-free African communities.”

He noted that: “Our strength has always been our proactive actions to prevent any individual or group from turning our countries into a minefield of drug trafficking. So, we must prioritize prevention, education, and rehabilitation to empower our youth with knowledge and opportunities. We must steer them away from the treacherous path of drug abuse and trafficking and protect our economy from the consequences of their actions.”

The President while emphasising the threat posed to countries by drug scourge, urged participants attending the conference to seize the opportunity of the gathering to come up with novel strategies to dismantle drug cartels across the African continent.

He said: “We are at the mercy of a threat that knows neither race nor geography, neither gender nor social class. This threat has crossed borders and destroyed societies and dreams. Without the moral commitment of the men and women in this room, this threat would have left cities, countries, and even civilizations erased. So, I must commend you for your sacrifices in the bid to keep our world drug-free, sane and safe.”

He said the choice of Nigeria to host the conference and its drug czar to chair the meeting is a profound recognition of the campaign and fight against illicit drugs led by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“We are hosting the 31st HONLAF meeting here to reassure you of our promise to participate in building a world not threatened by the infiltration of illicit drugs. Over the decades, criminal organizations have attempted to breach our security measures in their business of polluting nations and minds. But while it’s a compliment that drug-law enforcement organisations are a threat to their criminal empires, their desperation must never be taken for granted,” he added.

The President stated that: “Without you as gatekeepers of healthy nations, humanity as we know it would have long been perverted. So, on behalf of the world, I say: thank you, thank you to all of you who have kept us from being polluted and destroyed.”

In his remarks, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) who was elected to chair the conference, while citing the details of the 2023 world drug report as a challenge for Africa, charged his counterparts across the continent to strengthen operational networks and raise the bar in the drug war.

He said: “Drug use disorders are harming health, including mental health, safety and well-being,” adding that the harms caused by drug trafficking and illicit drug use are enormous, insisting that they are also contributing to many of these threats, from instability and violence to environmental devastation.

He said: “Young people are using more drugs than previous generations, and the majority of people being treated for drug use disorders in Africa are under the age of 35. What is worse, the availability of treatment and other services has not kept pace with these developments, and women in particular are suffering from treatment gaps.

“The world drug problem, in all its forms and manifestations, affects all of us. The stakes are especially high for Africa. No one country can tackle a problem of this magnitude alone; just as well, the world drug problem cannot be tackled solely through international policymaking; it also requires effective implementation and collaboration among practitioners. This is where the HONLAF comes in. The meeting is very important, as it enables its parent body, the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, to learn about current regional drug trends, threats, and emerging challenges from practitioners and law enforcement experts, from all parts of the continent.

“We need regional perspectives to enrich the global policy discussion, and HONLAF is the opportunity to bring the African perspective to the global level. The sessions provide a platform to share knowledge and practices and learn from each other.

“The 31st meeting will indeed provide an opportunity for us to raise the bar and break new ground in different areas of our operations and collaborative efforts. I am as excited as a lot of us in this hall are to make presentations, listen to others, and share experiences that will positively shape our operations and redefine our cooperation at the end of this conference.”

In his remarks at the ceremony, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, represented by the Director, International Criminal Justice Cooperation, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Nkiruka Jones-Nebo said “It is imperative that this conference remains proactive in addressing the legal complexities that may impede seamless cooperation in intelligence sharing, joint operations, and training. These barriers must be dismantled to prevent any loopholes that could potentially facilitate the activities of drug cartels operating across our borders.

“The Federal Ministry of Justice stands committed to providing unwavering support and efficient systems to empower NDLEA in its mission.”

The Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, (UNODC), Oliver Stolpe on his part, said the drug problem has changed from what it used to be 20 years ago, noting that: “Today, the picture is different, local consumption is increasing, and increasingly problematic. We need a balanced approach to supply and demand reduction. We need to invest in prevention and in treatment. And, we need alternatives to imprisonment for drug users that are more effective and help decongesting prisons. At the same time, we need to strengthen cooperation between countries along drug trafficking routes with the aim of dismantling the ever more sophisticated trafficking networks.”

The Executive Director, UNODC, Ghada Waly and the Chairman, UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs who both spoke via video messages expressed support for the gathering and charged delegates to maximise the opportunities provided by the platform.

One of the highpoints of the ceremony was the presentation of a report on Organised Crime in Nigeria: A Threat Assessment (NOCTA) produced by the National Institute for Security Studies in collaboration with security agencies and supported by the UNODC. Speaking on the report, Commandant of NISS, Ayodele Adeleke said “With investigations to connect transit and production countries, the report is hoped to encourage other partnerships to create a coalition that fights organised crime in partnership and collaboration. We must not give up, let us give Nigeria the true future it deserves.”

Tinubu Expresses Commitment to Fight Against Illicit Drug

National News

FG, IOM Tackle Irregular Migration with Revised 2024 Policy

Published

3 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG, IOM Tackle Irregular Migration with Revised 2024 Policy

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government in partnership with the United Nations’ International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has officially validated the Revised 2024 National Migration Policy and its Integrated Implementation Plan.

The validation event, held in Abuja on Tuesday, marked the culmination of months of extensive multi-stakeholder consultations, with inputs from government agencies, international partners, and civil society organisations.

The updated policy reflects Nigeria’s commitment to leading migration governance efforts in Africa, while aligning national strategies with global frameworks such as the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the African Union’s Migration Policy Framework.

Speaking at the high-level validation session, IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche praised the inclusiveness and depth of Nigeria’s policy-making process.

She said: “This policy is the product of rigorous consultations, late-night research, and inter-agency collaboration. It’s not just a technical validation; it’s a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s leadership in shaping inclusive and globally-aligned migration systems.”

The revised policy arrives at a time when global migration trends are shifting rapidly. With over 281 million international migrants worldwide and remittances to low- and middle-income countries reaching $669 billion in 2023, migration continues to be a key development driver.

Nigeria, which received an estimated $19.5 billion in remittances last year, relies heavily on these funds to support household needs such as education, healthcare, and livelihoods.

Director General of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, emphasised that the updated policy responds to both national realities and global migration dynamics.

He said: “We need adaptive and inclusive frameworks to tackle modern migration challenges such as climate-induced displacement, irregular migration, and the protection of vulnerable populations.”

Ahmed explained that the revised policy was developed through a structured review process led by a 19-member committee, guided by the United Nations Network on Migration’s six-step approach to implementation.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the urgency of addressing the plight of Nigerian migrants abroad. Referring to the recent rescue of 231 trafficked Nigerians from Ghana.

She said: “Migration is not a crime. We must do more to protect our citizens from exploitation and abuse. This policy must not just exist on paper, it must actively guide public awareness campaigns and cross-border interventions.”

The revised policy prioritises improved coordination among government agencies, better migration data governance, climate resilience strategies, diaspora engagement, and legal migration pathways.

Dimanche noted that effective coordination remains key to implementatio, adding that: “Nigeria has proven that harmonising efforts across ministries and sectors is not only possible but essential for results”, she added.

The IOM’s technical support and funding, through the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund, were crucial to the development of the new policy, ensuring inclusivity and alignment with international standards.

With the validation phase completed, the next step is to secure Federal Executive Council approval, after which the policy will guide Nigeria’s migration agenda in the years ahead.

“The presence of all stakeholders here today shows our shared vision. Together, we can build a migration system that is humane, coordinated, and development-focused”, Ahmed said.

FG, IOM Tackle Irregular Migration with Revised 2024 Policy

National News

FG Declares 1st May, Public Holiday

Published

4 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG Declares 1st May, Public Holiday

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 1st May, 2025 as a public holiday to mark this year’s Workers’ Day Celebration.

The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government reiterated the need for peace to drive industrialization and economic growth.

Tunji-Ojo commended workers for their diligence and sacrifice. He noted that workers’ efforts are largely responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria commands in the comity of nations.

According to the Minister, ”There is dignity in labour; the dedication and commitment to the work we do, is vital to nation-building”. He therefore urged workers to imbibe the culture of innovation and productivity.

Tunji-Ojo encouraged workers to raise the bar of their trade to drive and upgrade the bar of governance and make all the people of Nigeria derive maximum benefit from the nation’s wealth.

He assured Nigerians that, “this Administration is fully committed to the security of life and property of every citizen and foreigners in the country.”

While wishing workers a happy celebration, the Minister urged Nigerians to keep hope alive as the present administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda he has promised.

FG Declares 1st May, Public Holiday

National News

European Reconstruction Bank Sites First West African Office In Lagos

Published

4 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

European Reconstruction Bank Sites First West African Office In Lagos

** As VP Shettima restates President Tinubu’s resolve to sustain stronger ties with EU

** Welcomes partnership with Asian Consortium to manufacture electric cars, solar equipment in Nigeria

By: Our Reporter

The Nigerian government has reiterated its deep commitment to strategic partnership with the European Union, as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) prepares to open its first West African office in Lagos.

Nigeria officially became the EBRD’s 77th shareholder in February 2025, following the bank’s limited and incremental expansion to sub-Saharan Africa approved by its Board of Governors in 2023.

Speaking on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima praised the EU’s longstanding support, highlighting the growing opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, and youth empowerment.

“You are our natural partners and allies. Beyond the geography that binds us, we have a cultural affinity that goes back centuries,” VP Shettima said.

The Vice President noted that Nigeria is entering a new phase of economic openness under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who he said took bold steps from day one to dismantle key structural challenges.

He said, “Some of the dysfunctions in the Nigerian economy – the opaque exchange rate regime and the fuel subsidy – President Tinubu had the courage to remove them. All the encumbrances toward investment in this country are gradually being eliminated.”

Welcoming the EBRD’s expansion into Nigeria, VP Shettima said the opening of its Lagos office is a symbolic and strategic development for both parties, as “it will send a message across the borders.

“More than ever before, Nigeria is ready for business,” he added, emphasising that Nigeria’s partnership with the EU extends beyond economics, just as he made reference to the EU’s significant humanitarian and stabilisation efforts in conflict-affected regions such as Borno State, where he served as governor.

“I know the prominent role that the EU played in stability and humanitarian support in Borno State. You deserve commendation, not condemnation. We will always stand by those who stood by us in our hours of need,” VP Shettima said.

The Vice President also spoke on migration cooperation, expressing satisfaction with ongoing engagements under the EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement, and called for a revitalisation of youth-focused programmes like the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP).

“There is a need for us to recalibrate the programme for the good of our young men and women,” VP Shettima said.

Earlier in his remarks, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Mignot, said given the turmoil and very difficult political climate globally, it is important to have a reliable relationship with Nigeria, noting that the European Union sees Nigeria as a key partner in the 21st century.

Mr. Mignot explained that all the EU ambassadors in Nigeria have met to reaffirm their partnership with Nigeria.

He stated that the EU is a strong supporter of the UN Charter, the Sustainable Development Goals, and global gender equality initiatives of the international community.

“The EU believes in free and fair trade, international partnerships as relations among equals, mutual benefits and respecting sovereignty. West Africa and Nigeria are priorities for us because we are neighbours and our destinies are closely linked.

“Therefore, we are determined to keep our commitment globally and here in the region and Nigeria in terms of partnerships, cooperation and humanitarian aid,” he said.

VP Shettima Welcomes Partnership With Asian Consortium On Electric Cars, Solar Equipment Manufacture In Nigeria

In another development, Vice President Shettima applauded the proposal for partnership between Nigeria and the Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC) of South Korea for solar equipment and electric vehicle manufacturing, as well as for advanced Information Technology for security enhancement in Nigeria.

He said Nigeria was ready for partnerships that would advance the industrialisation agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and improve the lives of the citizens.

The Vice President stated this on Tuesday when he received a delegation from the AEDC South Korea led by its Chairman, Mr Yoon Suk-hun, on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Senator Shettima added that Nigeria is open to and interested in any form of arrangements that would lead to the transfer of technology and the establishment of industries for solar equipment production and electric vehicle manufacturing in Nigeria, among others.

He reiterated the commitment of the Tinubu administration to creating the enabling environment for private investments in the country, assuring the delegation of the government’s cooperation.

“This government wants to be the facilitator for businesses to thrive in Nigeria. We will create a safe passage and a conducive environment for private businesses like yours to thrive.”

The Vice President commended South Korea’s commitment to the development of Africa, given their shared history, just as he praised the country’s investments in human resource development and technological advancement, especially in automobile manufacturing and the alternative energy sector.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr Suk-hun, said the delegation was in the country to explore areas of partnership in solar technology, electric vehicle manufacturing and information technology infrastructure for security enhancement, among others.

He said the AEDC believes in the present leadership of the country to harness the enormous potential there, leveraging technology and the resources that abound across the country.

Mr Suk-hun said the organisation’s proposal for investment in Nigeria was not for profit maximisation but to ensure the transfer of technology in key areas, including solar technology, electric vehicle manufacturing and information technology capacity for security enhancement.

Also present at the meeting were the Founder/Chairman of AMMASCO Group, Alhaji Mustapha Muhammad; Shin Kyeong-seub; Kim Se Hun and Yang Jin Won, all from the AEDC.

European Reconstruction Bank Sites First West African Office In Lagos