National News
NAPTIP Promises More Bite to Fight Against Trafficking in Persons
NAPTIP Promises More Bite to Fight Against Trafficking in Persons
…To Embrqce Data Collection
By: Michael Mike
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has promised to give more bite to its ongoing war on trafficking in persons by embracing data collection and collaborating with all important stakeholders.
The Director-General, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi gave this promise on Monday at the opening of capacity building for NAPTIP officers and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Human Trafficking and the Harmonised Reporting Tools.
The DG, who was represented by the agency’s Director, Legal and Prosecution, Mr. Hassan Tahir noted that the place of data in national development cannot be over emphasized. She added that: “Data collection is the basis of our programming for human trafficking. It is a known fact that data drives policy interventions and operational activities in several fields, and particularly the counter-trafficking sphere. Reliable data enables us to identify trends, allocate resources effectively, and craft evidence-based strategies that are impactful towards the detection and elimination of the heinous crime of human trafficking.”
She said: “To all the participants, this workshop provides you a unique opportunity to make a difference in counter trafficking efforts in Nigeria especially in the Agency. You are privileged to have been selected to be here. I therefore, urge you to remain focused and fully engaged throughout this training. Your role is critical, and the skills you acquire here will not only enhance your capabilities but also empower you to train other data collection officers across the various formations of NAPTIP nationwide and to other stakeholders especially the CSOs. I therefore congratulate every one of you.”
The DG revealed that: “The Consultants, and other experts have been carefully selected and they will guide you through various pertinent topics. The excellence shown in this training will undoubtedly have a positive impact throughout the entire Agency, bolstering our collective efforts against human trafficking.
Waziri-Azi said: “Let me remind you all that what we are doing this week will also help us to report our activities better with proper evidence presented. You are aware of the Performance Bond that I signed early this year with the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. That Performance Bond is based on the 8 priorities of the present administration which is evidence based. You are key to achieving that Performance Bond as the Agency relies on you as Data officers of your Departments and Units to track those activities we said would be carried out and ensure full compliance, with evidence of achievements harvested. This would be done alongside your work plans which are also in tandem with the National Action Plan.”
She told the participants that: “Our job as a critical Agency of government is to always stand tall in contributing to national development and ensuring the safety of our vulnerable population whom criminal elements are seeking to devour. We have from the onset vowed to make life unbearable for human traffickers and all those involved in various acts of violence against persons in Nigeria, and we are not ready to shy away from that responsibility. We shall continue to make our communities difficult for human traffickers to operate.
“I encourage you to give your utmost best at this workshop. The knowledge and skills you gain here will be invaluable and will significantly contribute to the success of our comprehensive national anti-trafficking efforts, which would place Nigeria in a different light among the comity of nations in combating this transnational organized crime.
“Please be reminded that this workshop is a serious one and must be seen as that. At the end of it, each one of you especially officers of the Agency will be required as you are already aware, to step the training down in your Departments and Units. Based on performance, some of you would also be selected and sent to the Commands to cascade the training. I will therefore, be expecting an assessment on each participant at the end of the workshop from the facilitators.”
On his part, the agency’s Director, Research and Programme Department, Mr. Josiah Emerole, said: “This capacity building has come at a very auspicious time when the Agency is focusing more on evidence based programming which only proper data collection, analysis and dissemination can provide. It is also coming at a time when the present administration of President Bola Tinubu is focusing on evidence based performance from all Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAS) in line with the performance bonds signed with Ministers.”
He disclosed that at the end of the workshop, the following are expected: “The reporting tools will be used as the accepted template for reporting counter trafficking activities in the Agency and to the Agency. The CSOs and other stakeholders are to adopt same template in reporting to the National Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF).
“CSOs present are to step down this training to other member organisations for uniform reporting while training for STF on the template will be conducted during the Bootcamp early August 2024.
“NAPTIP participants shall step down the training in their respective Departments and Units.
“Selected participants would facilitate step down trainings across the NAPTIP Commands in the next activity phase.”
A Goodwill Message from the Acting Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Nigeria Country Office, Danilo Campisi, said that: “Based on lessons learned from implementing the first NAP of 2009 to 2012, Improved data collection, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the level and success of implemented activities through the development of a harmonized data collection system with stringent reporting tools and guidelines that allow for high-quality and timely reporting is one of the integral objectives for the implementation of the current NAP, which significantly explains further, our reason for being here today.”
Campisi, who was represented by UNODC’s Associate Programme Officer, Project Officer “From Policy to Action,” Ifeoma Karebo said: “Human trafficking as we are aware, remains a grave concern, threatening the dignity and rights of individuals, particularly women and children. UNODC is dedicated to supporting the strengthening of the Nigerian government’s policy framework and response to trafficking in persons.
“This training workshop whose primary aim is to equip NAPTIP officers and CSOs with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement the NAP, embodies our commitment to turning “Policy into Action”. We aim to enhance stakeholder coordination, improve data collection and analysis, and develop a more gender-sensitive approach to combating human trafficking. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of the NAP among different stakeholders and developing their competencies, we are laying the groundwork for a more robust and coordinated response to human trafficking across Nigeria.”
NAPTIP Promises More Bite to Fight Against Trafficking in Persons
ECOWAS Reports Resilient Growth and Major Regional Achievements in 2025
By: Michael Mike
The President of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Omar Touray on Thursday said the Commiswion has recorded notable economic, social, and institutional progress in 2025, despite global uncertainties and regional security challenges.
Speaking at a meeting with development partners, Touray said the regional economy grew by 4.6 percent in 2025, up from 4.3 percent in 2024, with projections of 5.0 percent growth in 2026.
He noted that this performance reflects the implementation of structural reforms, increased fiscal discipline, and measures to strengthen key sectors such as extractive industries and trade.
Touray said the regional inflation also eased from 24.4 percent in 2024 to 16.8 percent in 2025, supported by coordinated monetary and fiscal policies.
He highlighted improvements in budget management, with the regional deficit declining to 3.1 percent of GDP in 2025, adding that the debt-to-GDP ratio fell slightly to 45.7 percent.
He noted that current account balances remained positive, led by export surpluses from Nigeria, Ghana, and Guinea.
On the political and security front, Touray said ECOWAS strengthened peacekeeping and preventive diplomacy efforts across the region. He revealed that missions in The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau assessed operational and financial implications, with recommendations for improved training, monitoring, and exit strategies.
He stated that counter-terrorism initiatives intensified following a rise in fatalities from attacks, with regional intelligence sharing and specialized training programmes expanded, adding that arms control efforts also advanced with the donation of weapons-marking machines to four member states.
On trade and economic integration, Touray said ECOWAS continued to consolidate economic integration, advancing the free trade area, customs union, and common market initiatives.
He said efforts to facilitate cross-border trade included support for women and youth entrepreneurs, the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card in six countries, and the launch of digital platforms to track trade compliance. The region also participated in major trade fairs and forums, including the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algeria and the first ECOWAS Trade and Investment Forum in Lagos.
Touray noted that significant progress was made in energy, transport, and digital infrastructure, adding that clean energy programmes certified solar technicians, while broadband connectivity projects prepared the deployment of a second submarine cable.
He said ECOWAS also advanced regional road standards, aviation safety capacity, and interconnection hubs for internet access.
He said the Commission strengthened agricultural governance, climate-smart practices, and food security programs, reaching millions of beneficiaries with improved farming technologies, school feeding programmes and livestock development projects. Partnerships on climate resilience, carbon markets, and sustainable resource management were expanded.
He added that through the West Africa Health Organization (WAHO), ECOWAS enhanced epidemic preparedness and laboratory capacities, stating that humanitarian support focused on vulnerable populations, including women cured of fistula and youth employability initiatives, including programmes on gender equality, women’s empowerment, and anti-trafficking capacity building were implemented in multiple member states.
Touray said ECOWAS strengthened internal governance, financial management, and staff capacity development, including training in strategic leadership and risk management.
He revealed that the ECOWAS Court of Justice held 79 sessions and increased public outreach to improve citizen access to justice. International partnerships and diplomatic engagements with the UN, EU, World Bank, IMF, and AfDB yielded support for regional development projects across transport, agriculture, energy, and digital transformation.
He said he these achievements position ECOWAS to advance regional integration, economic growth, and stability, despite ongoing challenges such as geopolitical tensions, security threats, and the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Community.
ECOWAS Reports Resilient Growth and Major Regional Achievements in 2025
Kadafur Swears In 27 Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen in Borno
By: Bulama Talba
The Borno State Acting Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Umar Usman Kadafur, on Thursday swore in 27 newly elected Local Government Chairmen, charging them to embrace accountability, prudence, and people-oriented leadership at the grassroots.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Government House, Maiduguri, marked the formal commencement of a new tenure for the Chairmen across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas.
The oath of office and allegiance was administered by the Chief Judge of Borno State, Hon. Justice Kashim Zanna, who was represented by Justice Haruna Mshelia, in three batches.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented at the event, described the occasion as a “solemn transition of democratic duty,” stressing that leadership at the local level is a covenant of trust with the people, not a celebration of power.
He congratulated the Chairmen on their victory at the polls, commending the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC) for conducting a peaceful, free, and fair election.
He however, cautioned that the real task begins with service delivery, noting that local governments are the engine rooms for implementing the state’s 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.
The Acting Governor charged the Chairmen to manage public resources prudently, avoid vanity projects, and prioritise initiatives that directly improve security, livelihoods, and the dignity of citizens.
He emphasised that prompt payment of salaries and staff welfare is non-negotiable, while discipline and productivity must be restored in local government administration.
On accountability, the Acting Governor stressed that local councils must operate with openness and transparency, encouraging citizen engagement and public scrutiny.
Alhaji Umar Kadafur also directed Chairmen to reside and work within their respective Local Government Areas, warning against absentee leadership.
The Acting Governor further called on the Chairmen to uphold the rule of law, work closely with security agencies and traditional institutions, and remain vigilant against illegal mining and deforestation, which threaten the environment and livelihoods of communities.
Kadafur tasked the Ministry for Local Government and Emirate Affairs with strict supervision of local councils and used the occasion to commend the immediate past Chairmen for their dedication and service.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, highlighted the significance of the state’s decision to grant financial autonomy to Local Governments, describing it as a bold reform that has strengthened grassroots governance.
Hon Sugun Mai Mele cautioned that financial autonomy comes with increased responsibility, noting that all expenditures must strictly follow financial regulations, procurement laws, budgetary provisions, and legislative approvals.
He urged the Chairmen to take the lead in initiating and executing impactful projects, rather than relying solely on state funded interventions.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and ALGON Chairman, Hon. Ali Umar Bolori, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and the Governor for the confidence reposed in the Chairmen.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Hon. Bolori pledged that the Chairmen would serve with honesty, fairness, and dedication, and align fully with the Governor’s development agenda.
He particularly appreciated the extension of Local Government tenure from two to three years, describing it as a strategic decision that would enhance planning and delivery of sustainable development at the grassroots.
The ceremony was attended by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Hon Satomi Ahmad,APC Party Chairman, SSG, HOS, COS ,Special Advisers,STA,SSA,government officials, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, security agencies, and APC Party stakeholders and Supporters among others.
Kadafur Swears In 27 Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen in Borno
National News
NSCDC Dismisses Claims of Withheld Promotion Arrears, Reaffirms Commitment to Personnel Welfare
NSCDC Dismisses Claims of Withheld Promotion Arrears, Reaffirms Commitment to Personnel Welfare
By: Michael Mike
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has refuted reports alleging that its leadership is responsible for the non-payment of promotion arrears and the diversion of funds meant for personnel welfare, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the spokesman of the Corps, Afolabi Babawale, the Corps said the allegations, which surfaced on some online platforms on January 23, were deliberately crafted to misinform the public and undermine the credibility of the organisation and its leadership under the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi.
The NSCDC clarified that the payment of salary and promotion arrears does not fall under the control of the Corps or the Commandant General. According to the statement, such payments are handled by the Presidential Committee on Arrears, which is overseen by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation and the Accountant General of the Federation.
Addressing claims that no arrears have been paid since 2022, the Corps said available records show steady progress in the settlement of outstanding payments. It noted that the current leadership inherited about five years of unpaid salary arrears upon assuming office in 2021 but successfully facilitated the clearance of arrears covering 2015 to 2019, benefiting more than 37,000 personnel nationwide.
On the status of arrears for 2020 to 2022, the NSCDC explained that relevant departments, acting on the directive of the Commandant General, had applied to the Presidential Committee on Arrears. The request, the Corps said, has already been approved and is currently awaiting final release by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation for disbursement through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
The Corps added that arrears for 2023 and 2024 are yet to receive the necessary approvals, stressing that government funds cannot be released without presidential consent and budgetary provision. It also noted that promotion examination results for 2025 were only released in December, and the process of capturing them in the budget is ongoing.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and staff welfare, the NSCDC said it would not be distracted by what it described as attempts at blackmail or cyberbullying. The Corps urged the public and media organisations to verify information through official channels and disregard reports capable of causing tension among personnel.
The Commandant General also appealed to officers and men of the Corps to remain calm and patient, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to ensure the eventual release and payment of all outstanding arrears in line with government procedures.
NSCDC Dismisses Claims of Withheld Promotion Arrears, Reaffirms Commitment to Personnel Welfare
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