ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF COMMISSIONS NIGERIAN ARMY CIVIL MILITARY COOPERATION SPECIAL INTERVENTION PROJECT IN ITESIWAJU COMMUNITY ILORIN

By: Our Reporter

The Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, was at Itesiwaju Community in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Tuesday 26 November, 2024 to commission twin blocks of class rooms and offices for Itesiwaju Community Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) Primary School, Idi – Igba Were, Akerebiata, Ilorin. The Project, which also include; installation of sola lights, construction of restroom facilities, desks and chairs, are amongst several Nigerian Army (NA) Special Intervention Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Projects sponsored by the COAS, and executed across Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Acting COAS, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division NA, Major General Obinna Onubogu, stated that the NA recognizes the importance of the people as essential partners in progress; appreciating its great influence through non – kinetic operations. He said that the scheme is one of many initiatives of the NA, aimed at gaining the support and cooperation of the people towards achieving good results in its activities. He appreciated the good people of Ilorin and the entire Kwara State for their unwavering support to the NA.

Speaking further, the Acting Army Chief, described the scheme as designed to draw development to communities of NA senior officers who through their selfless service to the nation, rose to the enviable rank of Major Generals. “The initiative is also geared towards fostering and improving Civil – Military Relations. Thus, the projects executed by these Generals on behalf of the NA are carefully selected and executed so as to improve the well – being of people in their communities”, he said. He also noted that the NA has commissioned well over 250 similar CIMIC projects across the 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria. He expressed optimism that the amenities provided at Itesiwaju Community School would create supportive and conducive environment to deliver quality education to children and guide them towards achieving success in their endeavours.

He appreciated the project executor, Major General Bamidele Alabi, for the exceptionally quality work he did for the community, while thanking the school management, community leaders, and the entire community for the support given to him during the different stages of the project. He charged them to ensure good maintenance and maximum use of the facilities.

General Oluyede, promised that the NA will continue to collaborate with other security agencies to deal with security challenges bedeviling Nigeria through kinetic and non – kinetic lines of operations. He thanked the President, Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his unflinching strategic guidance and invaluable support to the NA, reassuring Nigerians of unwavering loyalty of officers and soldiers to the President, the nation, and Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Chief of Civil Military Affairs (CCMA) – Army, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, who also made remarks during the event, stated that “the commissioning ceremony, provides a platform to showcase that aspect of the NA’s non – kinetic operations intended to strengthen engagement with communities, boost awareness of Nigerian Army activities, and build a culture of natural trust and cooperation essential for our collective security and prosperity”, General Ugbo, further expressed confidence that the project would provide the targeted beneficiaries with quality education in a conducive learning environment, and empower them to compete with their peers globally and as well, contribute to building the desired Nigeria. He appreciated Major General Alabi for the good job, attributing the high standards to his unrelenting passion to bring development to his community and beyond. He urged students, teachers of Itesiwaju LGEA Primary School, and the entire community to make judicious use of the facilities provided.

The Executive Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, CON, was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Security, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu. While appreciating the project executor, he thanked the COAS and the entire NA for the project, and also for sustaining the security of the entire nation.

Earlier in his welcome address, the project executor, Major General Bamidele Alabi, described the project as laudable, saying it was an honour for him to have executed it for the benefit of the school and entire Itesiwaju Community. He welcomed the representative of the Special Guest of Honour (SGoH), thanking the Acting COAS for the initiative and for considering him worthy for the project. He also appreciated the representative of the Governor, and all dignitaries who graced the occasion. “The NA has continued to play pivotal role in ensuring peace and security for economic development to thrive in our beloved country. This initiative therefore serves as a humble reminder that the NA is for the people and will also support developments that will improve the well – being of Nigerians”, General Alabi said. He further appreciated the CCMA, for his immense support and for sustaining efforts towards spreading NA’s Special Intervention CIMIC Projects across the entire nation.

General Alabi, also expressed gratitude to the Governor for his good works towards growth, development, peace and security of Kwara, while thanking the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Sulu gambari CFR, for his exemplary leadership and continuous drive towards attracting progress to Ilorin and Kwara State as a whole. He charged the staff and pupils of Itesiwaju Community LGEA Primary School, and the entire community to take ownership of the school and ensure the facilities provided are put in good use and well maintained.

The historic event witnessed several Government Officials, Royal Fathers and other Dignitaries who took turns to deliver goodwill messages in appreciation of the NA for sponsoring the CIMIC project in Itesiwaju as well as others across the nation. There were cultural displays, commissioning of the project, tour of facilities, and presentation of souvenirs as highpoints of the event.

ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF COMMISSIONS NIGERIAN ARMY CIVIL MILITARY COOPERATION SPECIAL INTERVENTION PROJECT IN ITESIWAJU COMMUNITY ILORIN

NSCDC PARTNERS ICPC INAUGURATES ANTI-CORRUPTION AND TRANSPARENCY UNIT REITERATES COMMITMENT TO INSTITUTIONAL INTEGRITY TO ENHANCE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

By: Michael Mike

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Commandant General; Dr. Ahmed Audi has assured of his continued commitment to justify the existence of the Corps by bringing credibility and integrity into place in order to foster national development.

Audi gave the assurance while inaugurating and inducting officers of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU); he equally launched the Whistleblowing policy and procedure and unveiled the ACTU logo.

The CG who also delivered a keynote address during a 2-day Training Programme tagged: Whistleblowing Policy and Procedure, Unveiling of the NSCDC ACTU Logo, and Inauguration of ACTU members in Abuja, said this pragmatic move will advanced transformative system that would encourage reporting of unethical practices that contravene the Corps’ Standard Operating Procedures but rather enhance accountability, protect whistleblowers, ensure prompt and fair investigation of reported cases amongst others.

Audi was represented by Deputy Commandant General in charge of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI); DCG Mohammed Lawal Haruna, fdc, who lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for providing equitable avenue and resources for the Corps’ to thrive in the face of challenges.

He further hinted that since the appointment of the current Minister of Interior, Hon (Dr) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the NSCDC has experienced positive transformation and change of narratives.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN commended the NSCDC for such an apt and timely programme noting that ACTU serves a critical mechanism for ensuring compliance with Anti-Corruption standards and values of Integrity.

The ICPC Chairman who was represented by Mr Olusegun Adigun, fsi, further charged the new inductees to approach their responsibilities with night level of professionalism, impartiality and deep sense of duty even as he assured of them of the commission’s technical and operational support.

Earlier in an address of welcome, the NSCDC ACTU Chairperson, Acting Commandant Audrey Obe, explained that the unit is charged with the formidable task of promoting ethical practices, uncovering corrupt activities and reinforcing acceptability mechanisms within the Corps.

“To tackle corruption effectively in any system; there is need to implement robust measures that promotes training, education and institutionalization of checks and balances”.

In the highpoint of the event, there were inauguration of 10 NSCDC ACTU member with administration of Oath of Allegiance by Mrs Nkem Ezenwa of the ICPC, also goodwill messages were delivered by guests from different agencies and formal presentation of Operational Manual by the Chairman of ICPC to the CG was also made.

NSCDC PARTNERS ICPC INAUGURATES ANTI-CORRUPTION AND TRANSPARENCY UNIT REITERATES COMMITMENT TO INSTITUTIONAL INTEGRITY TO ENHANCE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

6th Asian Film Festival Begins im Abuja

By: Michael Mike

This year’s Asian Film Festival has debuted in Abuja to celebrate the unity of some Asian country and friendship with the host nation, Nigeria.

The festival has on showcase films from Nigeria and the Asian countries of South Korea, China, India, Malaysia, Iran, Singapore and Philippine.

The Federal Government lauded the Sixth Asian Film Festival, noting that it is a platform to strengthen cultural diplomacy and foster artistic collaboration, particularly between Nigeria and the participating Asian countries.

The festival, which kicked off at the China Cultural Center, highlights the power of cinema in promoting mutual understanding and economic opportunities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Mr. Raphael Oraeluno,, emphasized the role of international cooperation in the creative industries.

He said: “International cooperation enhances the sharing of knowledge, resources, and innovative ideas,” adding that: “Cultural exchange in the film industry not only deepens ties but also creates avenues for economic growth. Promoting our cultural industries leads to job creation, supports local economies, and enhances cultural heritage tourism.”

Oraeluno also called for policies to bolster cultural exchanges and partnerships, with the Asian countries.

He noted that platforms like the festival provide emerging artists and filmmakers with opportunities to share their narratives, which have the potential to change perceptions and foster global empathy.

He added that: “Each film presented at this festival is not merely a work of art; it is a dialogue of perspectives that prompts reflection, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding.”

He noted that the festival underscores the broader role of cinema as a medium that transcends geographical boundaries, showcasing shared human experiences while celebrating unique identities.

Director of the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing highlighted the significance of the event in strengthening ties between Asia and Nigeria.

“This is the third time the China Cultural Centre is hosting the opening ceremony of the Asian Film Festival,” Jianxing said.

He noted that: “The festival brings happiness and allows us to share stories that reflect the unique traditions, values, and creativity of Asia. It builds a bridge between Asia and Nigeria, helping us understand each other better.”

The centerpiece of the festival, the screening of the Chinese film Monster Hunt, exemplifies the fusion of fantasy, humor, and cultural themes. The movie, which tells the story of a hero and heroine rescuing the son of a former monster king, showcases Chinese Kung Fu and explores profound questions about human nature.

“I hope everyone can enjoy the movie and other great films from Asian countries and Nigeria,” Jianxing added.

“This festival celebrates teamwork, shared spirit, and the value of learning from each other to build a community with a shared future.”

On his part, the Director of Korea Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN), Mr Kim Changki said the platform would offer his country, South Korea, an opportunity to showcase its culture and promote its rich cultural values to Nigeria.

He said Korea is ever ready to partner with Nigeria in the area of culture and tourism, noting that understanding culture of others present an opportunity for bonding and friendship.

6th Asian Film Festival Begins im Abuja