National News
Genocide: Guterres Asks for United Global Action to Stem Growing Tide of Hate Speech
Genocide: Guterres Asks for United Global Action to Stem Growing Tide of Hate Speech
… Rwandan Envoy Insists Only Global Cooperation Can Prevent Recurrence of Another “1994 Genocide in Rwanda”
By: Michael Mike
The Secretary General of United Nations (UN), Antonio Guterres has called for global action to stem the tide of hate speech, stop disunity and discontent mutating into violence, uphold human rights, and ensure accountability in order to stop the repeat of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Guterres, in his speech on the commemoration of 31 years since the genocide in Rwanda, read by the United Nations (UN) Women Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong
said: “Today we mourn the one million children, women and men slaughtered in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“This appalling chapter in human history was not a spontaneous frenzy of horrendous violence. It was intentional, premeditated and planned — including through hate speech that inflamed division, and spread lies and dehumanization. The overwhelming majority of victims were Tutsi, but also Hutu and others who opposed the genocide.
“As we recall how these crimes came about, we must also reflect on resonance with our own times. These are days of division. The narrative of “us” versus “them” is ascendant, polarizing societies. Digital technologies are being weaponized to further inflame hate, stoke division, and spread lies.
“We must learn from the terrible history of the genocide in Rwanda, and act to stem the tide of hate speech, stop disunity and discontent mutating into violence, uphold human rights, and ensure accountability.
I urge all States to deliver on commitments made in the Global Digital Compact to tackle online falsehoods and hate, to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and to become parties to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide without delay.
“On this day of remembrance, let’s commit to be vigilant and to work together to build a world of justice and dignity for all – in honour of all the victims, and survivors of the genocide in Rwanda.”
At the marking of the 31 years since the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda in Abuja Nigeria on Monday, the Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo called for global cooperation in combating genocide ideology to prevent the recurrence of atrocities similar to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
At the event organised in partnership with the Nigerian government and the United Nations in Nigeria, which brought together individuals from various sectors and emphasized the theme “Remember – Unite – Renew,” Bazivamo stressed that Kwibuka is not merely a time for remembrance, but a global call to confront historical truths, challenge genocide denial, and uphold the dignity of the victims.
He said we are here to reflect on the past, strengthen our unity, and renew our commitment to a future free from genocide, guided by the theme “Remember – Unite – Renew,”.
The envoy said: “Kwibuka, a Kinyarwanda word meaning to remember, is far more than a ritual of memory. It is a national and global call to confront historical truth, uphold dignity, and fight genocide denial and revisionism.
“It is a time when Rwanda stands not in isolation, but with the world — with our brothers and sisters across Africa, and with friends here in Nigeria — to reaffirm that Never Again must be more than a slogan. It must be a guiding principle.”
He acknowledged the invaluable contributions of genocide survivors, many of whom have transformed their suffering into a force for positive change, particularly through initiatives like the Gacaca courts and Rwanda’s national reconciliation programme.
He explained that: “Despite the enormity of this challenge, Rwanda’s Government of National Unity led by H.E. Paul Kagame made a deliberate choice to prioritize reconciliation.
“The concept of “Ndi Umunyarwanda” (I am Rwandan) became central to the rebuilding process. It emphasized a collective identity above ethnic lines, urging all Rwandans to see themselves as one people, united in their shared history and future. This spirit of unity formed the bedrock upon which Rwanda began its journey of healing and rebuilding.
“This journey has not been easy. We are grateful for the efforts of survivors, who have transformed their pain into an impetus for healing and positive change.”
Although significant progress has been made in Rwanda’s recovery, the High Commissioner noted that challenges persist, particularly with ongoing regional security issues.
He lamented that genocidal forces remain active in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while expressing concern over the rise of hate speech and propaganda, warning that the rhetoric seen in the lead-up to the 1994 genocide was resurfacing in the region.
Bazivamo also highlighted the international community’s limited response to these concerns, urging nations to collaborate in the fight against genocide ideology.
He said: “Today, we are witnessing alarming hate speeches, dehumanizing propaganda, and calls for extermination—similar to the language used before 1994 in Rwanda. Thousands have been displaced, and yet, the international response remains dangerously muted.
“We must not forget that Rwanda warned the world once before. The cost of ignoring hate is too great to bear again. This is not just Rwanda’s fight; it demands the urgent and concerted attention of the entire international community.
“This commemoration also compels us to speak with clarity about the role of the international community, whose failure to act in 1994 cost more than one million lives,” he lamented.
He called for a renewed commitment to the 1948 UN Genocide Convention and UN Security Council Resolution 2150, both of which mandate the prevention of genocide and prosecution of perpetrators.
The envoy condemned genocide denial and revisionism, which continue to undermine Rwanda’s efforts to heal and rebuild.
He however reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to combating genocide ideology both within its borders and globally, stressing the importance of working with international partners, such as Nigeria, to foster a peaceful and prosperous continent.
The High Commissioner added that: “Today, as we observe growing instability in the region, Rwanda calls for a renewed commitment to the principles enshrined in the 1948 UN Genocide Convention and UN Security Council Resolution 2150.
“These instruments impose a moral
and legal obligation on all states to combat genocide ideology, judge or extradite genocide fugitives, and ensure that “Never Again” is not just a slogan, but a commitment.
“We also note with concern the continued support for genocide denial and revisionism in certain quarters and countries.”
He urged attendees to honor the memory of the victims, stand in solidarity with survivors, and pledge to prevent genocide ideology from ever taking root again.
Genocide: Guterres Asks for United Global Action to Stem Growing Tide of Hate Speech
VP Shettima Joins President Tinubu For Juma’at Prayers In Abuja
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside several other government officials, joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Juma’at prayers on Friday at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Central Mosque, Wuse 2, Abuja.
The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, and the governors of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Kaduna State, Sen. Uba Sani; Jigawa State, Umar Namadi; Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni; and Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibrin.
The prayers were also offered in honour of President Tinubu’s late mother, Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji.
VP Shettima Joins President Tinubu For Juma’at Prayers In Abuja
ASEAN Diplomatic Missions Commit to Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) diplomatic missions in Nigeria, including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, have pledged to deepen bilateral ties with Nigeria.
The pledge was made on Thursday evening in Abuja during the “Essence of ASEAN” festival reception hosted by the High Commission of Malaysia in Nigeria in partnership with Embassies of Philippines, Indonesia , Thailand and Vietnam.
ASEAN, is a regional grouping of 10 states in Southeast Asia “that aims to promote economic and security cooperation among its ten members.
The High Commissioner of Malaysia, Mr Aiyub Omar, who is also the current chairman of the ASEAN Committee in Abuja, highlighted the festival’s importance in fostering understanding and collaboration between ASEAN member countries and Nigeria.
He said: “Malaysia has been a partner to Nigeria since 1965, and this year marks the 60th anniversary of our bilateral relations
“This festival aims to raise awareness of ASEAN’s cultural offerings and opportunities in Nigeria, where interest in travel to Malaysia has surged, with over 300 applications from Nigerians to visit the country each month.
“Additionally, more than 3,000 Nigerians are currently studying in Malaysian universities, both public and private.
“There are so many travellers now travelling to Malaysia, for instance in a month, we receive about more than 300 applications for Nigerians to travel to Malaysia.”
The envoy also noted that ASEAN diplomatic missions rotate the chairmanship every six months, which helps maintain a dynamic engagement among member states.
Also speaking, Philippines Ambassador, Mr Mersole Mellejor, called for greater awareness of ASEAN among Nigerians, stating that efforts must be made to increase exposure and understanding of ASEAN’s aspirations as a vital partner in Africa.
He said: “The common people of Nigeria need to know what ASEAN represents and our aspirations.”
He also stressed the importance of increasing ASEAN’s visibility and engagement with Nigeria, recognising the potential of collaborating within a collective market of nearly 1 billion people across ASEAN and West Africa.
On his part, the Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, expressed appreciation for the support and emphasised Nigeria’s strong connections with ASEAN countries, stating how collaboration in trade and tourism is crucial for mutual economic growth.
Tuggar, who was represented by Ambassador Janet Olisa, Director of Regions in the Foreign Affairs Ministry pointed out that ASEAN has a lot to offer in terms of educational exchange programs, leveraging the robust network of institutions available in the region.
He said: “ASEAN has taught us that the first thing you need to do is trade among yourself, tourism among yourself, before you go out.
“So you have to build each other’s economy, each other’s trade and we borrowed the lead from the West African Economic Summit taking place tomorrow for all West African countries.
“So we are talking about how we grow together economically. Have a lot of collaboration with most of the ASEAN countries. Malaysia has a very robust scholarship exchange programme that they do provide. Same with Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam and the other 5 countries.”
The highlight of the event was a display of ASEAN cultures, featuring traditional dances, attire, music, culinary delights, and promotional materials aimed at familiarising Nigerians with the diverse nations of ASEAN
ASEAN Diplomatic Missions Commit to Strengthening Bilateral Ties with Nigeria
Marwa Commissions NDLEA/NOA Vision Centre
By: Michael Mike
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) has commissioned a high-tech Vision Centre at its National Headquarters Annex in Abuja as part of efforts to promote and prioritise staff welfare as well as to boost their morale.
The facility, a product of strategic partnership between the Agency and the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) and its partner, OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, is designed to provide comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality eye care services to NDLEA personnel and members of the public.
Speaking at the brief ceremony, Marwa expressed deep appreciation to the NOA and its partners for considering the NDLEA worthy of such a vital collaboration.
He said: “We are here with every sense of fulfilment and happiness to commission this Vision Centre,” while reflecting on the personal and public importance of vision health.
Marwa, drawing from his own experience with eye care, urged officers, men and women of the agency to prioritize regular eye checkups, noting that vision is key to productivity and quality of life.
He also commended the dedication of the team of optometrists managing the centre, while acknowledging their pioneering role and voluntary service.
He said: “We appreciate you for accepting to serve in this capacity even in uncharted grounds. This Centre is a worthy addition to our several initiatives to promote and cater for the wellbeing of our workforce.”
In his remarks, the NOA President, Dr. Chimeziri Anderson, described the commissioning as the culmination of a purposeful collaboration with the NDLEA and OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation.
He recalled how the idea for the centre was birthed during a meeting in Lagos and praised the leadership of the agency for embracing the initiative.
He said: “This Vision Centre is one of only a few we have established within government institutions. It stands out as a model for sustainable eye care delivery. With support from our partners in France and Dubai, we are bringing world class equipment and services here, ensuring access to premium eye care and quality eye glasses for NDLEA staff and their families.”
The Director, Medical Services of NDLEA, Dr. Audu Okpe in his welcome remark noted that the establishment of the NDLEA-NOA Vision Centre marks another milestone in the agency’s growing portfolio of staff welfare initiatives under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa.
He said: “It also underscores a broader commitment to fostering public health partnerships between security institutions and professional medical bodies in Nigeria.”
Marwa Commissions NDLEA/NOA Vision Centre
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