EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION, CRITICAL TO SECURITY AGENCIES

…GOC 6 Division Re-Echoes, As Commissioner of Police Visits

By: Jonah Danjuma

The criticality of effective collaboration among security agencies has been emphasized, particularly in a joint and complex operating environment that the security agencies navigate in the Niger Delta Region (NDR). The General Officer Commanding (GOC ), 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Jamal Abdussalam has today 22 October 2024, emphasized this when the newly posted Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala paid him a courtesy call at Headquarters, 6 Division, Port Harcourt Barracks.

Major General Abdussalam disclosed that Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is a key partner to the NA, adding that if NPF couldn’t contain a situation, that’s when the NA would be called upon to deploy men and equipment. He further stressed that if the NPF didn’t succeed, it means all other security agencies have failed, maintaining that all the agencies are working for a common goal. The failure of one is the failure of all, stressing that if there is crisis in Rivers State, all the security agencies would be blamed, when there is peace, all will take the credit. He called on all security agencies to continue to synergise and cooperate with the NPF in discharging their responsibilities in the NDR.

The GOC stated that collaboration with other security agencies is part of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja command philosophy, which placed emphasis on joint environment. This, he said is a mandate from COAS to collaborate with other security agencies, while assuring the newly posted Commissioner of Police that 6 Division under his watch will continue on the trajectory of collaboration with the NPF to effectively secure Rivers State. He urged commanders of various formations and units to continue to synergise and collaborate with the NPF.

Earlier, while marking his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala thanked the GOC for his support to the command. He added that the visit to Headquarters 6 Division was basically to seek for more collaboration and support from the GOC and also tap from his wealth of experience as one of the senior military commanders in the State.

CP Mustapha disclosed that he was posted to the Rivers State at trying time and without the cooperation of other security agencies, most especially the NA, it will be difficult to achieve parity in the operating environment. He also expressed his appreciation to the GOC, and pledged effective collaboration with the NA in the State.

CP Bala reiterated his commitment to work with the NA under the leadership of the GOC, urging that he should considered as one of NA officers posted to work under the GOC. He reassured the GOC of maximum support and cooperation to enable security agencies effectively navigate the complex operating environment in Rivers State.

EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION, CRITICAL TO SECURITY AGENCIES

Nigerian geographers advocate for enhanced disaster management and sustainable development

By: Michael Mike

Participants at the 64th Annual Conference of the Association of Nigerian Geographers (ANG) have called for proactive environmental disaster management and stronger alignment with sustainable development goals.

The hybrid conference, held from October 14 to 19 at the Federal Capital Territory College of Education, Zuba, attracted 221 attendees, including academics, professionals, and stakeholders in geography and environmental sciences.

Themed “Environmental Disaster, Risk Management, and Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” the event featured insightful keynote addresses and paper presentations addressing contemporary challenges in environmental risk management.

Key highlights from the conference’s communiqué, signed by Mrs. Maria Agbo, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee, noted Nigeria’s increasing vulnerability to environmental disasters, such as floods and desertification.

The communiqué stressed the urgent need to integrate geospatial technologies and enhance disaster preparedness strategies.

Participants called for the development of comprehensive risk management frameworks at the community and local government levels, including recommendations for early warning systems, community engagement, and disaster risk education.

They also urged geographers to work closely with policymakers to ensure Nigeria’s development plans align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas related to environmental sustainability and climate action.

In addressing the environmental pressures posed by rapid urbanization—such as waste management challenges and air pollution—sustainable urban planning and the creation of green spaces were recommended.

The participants also advocated for increased support for geographic research and capacity-building initiatives aimed at tackling contemporary environmental issues.

The importance of collaboration between academia, government, NGOs, and the private sector was emphasized to promote multidisciplinary approaches to disaster management and sustainable development.

The conference urged the government to strengthen policies that mitigate environmental degradation and disaster risks, encouraging geographers to take an active role in policy advocacy.

A highlight of the event was the investiture of 30 new Fellows, recognized for their significant contributions to geographic research and education.

Participants also emphasized the urgency of climate action, calling for geography education to be incorporated into school curricula to enhance understanding of climate change.

The conference concluded with appreciation to the Local Organizing Committee and the management of FCT College of Education, Zuba, for their contributions to the event’s success.

Nigerian geographers advocate for enhanced disaster management and sustainable development

Prof Gutti assumes the role of substantive Vice Chancellor at Borno State University (BOSU).

By: Our Reporter

Professor Gutti Babagana has officially assumed office as the second substantive Vice Chancellor of Borno State University (BOSU) during a ceremony held today, October 22, 2024, at the University Senate Chamber.

The event was attended by prominent intellectuals, including colleagues, associates, and mentees, who gathered to witness the symbolic transition of leadership.

In his introductory remarks, outgoing acting VC Professor H. Dlakwa praised Professor Gutti’s impressive academic record and leadership qualities, noting that his accomplishments positioned him well to steer the university towards greater achievements.

Dlakwa expressed gratitude for the support he received from the university community during his tenure and encouraged continued cooperation with the new VC.

Professor Gutti, in his address, expressed deep gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for the opportunity to serve the university and pledged to align his leadership with the state’s 25-year developmental and 10-year strategic plans through research and community service. He extended thanks to the university’s governing council, Senate, and staff for their support and expressed his openness to feedback and constructive criticism as he outlined his vision for BOSU’s growth.

Professor Emeritus Abubakar Mustapha, acting chairman of the Governing Council, also shared his confidence in Professor Gutti’s ability to meet expectations and tackle the challenges ahead. The handover of official documents marked the formal transfer of responsibilities.

On behalf of Professor Gutti’s family and associates, Engr. Dr. Ali Yaumi conveyed appreciation to Governor Zulum and the university’s governing council, Senate, and staff, affirming that Professor Gutti would work diligently for the betterment of BOSU in line with the governor’s vision.

Prof Gutti assumes the role of substantive Vice Chancellor at Borno State University (BOSU).