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NHRC Promises to Continue to Uphold Protection of Press Freedom in Nigeria

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NHRC Promises to Continue to Uphold Protection of Press Freedom in Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

Nigerians have been assured of the promotion and protection of their fundamental human rights including right to freedom of expression and the press in all circumstances.

The promise was made via a press statement signed by the Director Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Obinna Nwakonye

Nwakonye said the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, in a statement marking the 2024 World Press Freedom reaffirmed the commitment of the Commission to safeguarding press freedom as a fundamental human right and the corner stone of any democracy.

He premised his assurance on the provisions of the National Human Rights Commission’s Act 1995 (as amended), wherein the Commission is mandated to deal with all matters relating to the promotion and protection of human rights guaranteed by all the Constitution of Nigeria and human rights legal instruments to which Nigeria is a party.

The Executive Secretary highlighted the crucial role played by journalists in birthing and defending our democracy, projecting government’s policies, providing critical information that benefits the masses and even holding government accountable to its responsibilities.

Ojukwu, however noted that journalists in Nigeria face numerous challenges ranging from, intimidations, unlawful arrests attacks and even deaths.

According to him, these unfortunate incidents undermine the journalists ability to carry out their work effectively.

He added that the 2024 theme for World Press Freedom Day “A Press for the Planet: Journalists in the face of the environmental Crisis” is apt, as it seeks to drive the fact that journalists and the media work tirelessly for the survival of the earth and where the earth is on environmental crisis, journalists also face environmental crisis and must see how they can contribute to resolving the environmental crisis in which they work.

“I wish to use the opportunity of this important day to call on all stakeholders to join hands with the Commission in the fight to protect and promote press freedom in Nigeria” Ojukwu stated.

World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually every May 3rd.

NHRC Promises to Continue to Uphold Protection of Press Freedom in Nigeria

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ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

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ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

Adamawa High Court IX, fixed Nov. 27th for ruling and judgment on suit filed by Shehu Yohanna and Zubairu Ishaq challenging their removal from office as Chairman Secretary, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Adamawa chapter.

The presiding judge, Justice Benjamin Manji, announced this at the end of the hearing on Thursday in Yola.

Earlier the plaintiff complained that their four-year tenure was illegally terminated before expiration.

Kambile who challenged: Amb.Omar Suleiman, Chairman Coalition Adamawa stakeholders; Sadiq Dasin, Chairman Transition Electoral/Congress Commitee; Malam Saidu Komsiri, State Interim Chairman and his Led Executive Committee members.

Others are: Babachir Lawan, National Vice Chairman North East; Sen. David Mark, ADC National Chairman and his Led National Executive Committee Members; National Working Committee and the ADC.

Yakubu Philemon (SAN) pleaded for the Court to allow Kambile to complete their four year tenure best on what the constitution of the party says.

Dr Emem Ibrahim-Effiong, counsel defendants argued that the matter is an internal party affair which the court should not interfere with.

After hearing both sides, Justice Manji subsequently adjourned the matter to Thursday November 27, for ruling and judgment as earlier agreed by all counsels.

ADC leadership tussle: Adamawa court to deliver judgment on Nov. 27

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Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

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Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede has trained no fewer than 78 retired military veterans in North-East on vocational skills.

The veterans were drawn from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe Taraba and Yobe States.

The theme is “Empowering Veterans Through Skills Acquisition for Capacity Building and Sustainability,”

Speaking at the three-day training in Yola on Wednesday, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, the CDS represented by Director, Veterans Affairs Division, Defence Headquarters, Maj. Gen. Oluwafemi Williams said, the training is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the well-being of the veterans.

He said, the initiative is for the veterans across six geopolitical zones to help themselves and their families due to the economic situation in the country.

“With the caliber of facilitators selected to deliver this training, I am confident that the participants will be well prepared to take full advantage of the existence of the poverty alleviation programme under my stewardship.

“And with alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu”, he said.

He urged them to take advantage of the training and improve on their livelihood and to also network with other colleagues.

According to him, subsequently the beneficiaries would be empowered with starter parks.

Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, commend the Defence Headquarters for organising the training for the veterans across the six geopolitical zones.

Fintiri, presented by the Chief of Staff Government House also commended the veterans for their sacrifice in serving the nation, and urged them to take advantage of the training to succeed in future.

Prof. Augustine Danwe of Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola one of the resource persons said, the training would expose the veterans to a gold smile in Agricultural production.

According to him, with the discipline in the beneficiaries by the military when they implement the skills into practice they would succeed in their respective states.

He urged the veterans to apply the skills into practice for maximum benefit.

Sgt. Sule Gagare retired veteran and a beneficiary from Bauchi thanked and appreciated the CDS for empowering them with the skills and prayed for all the promises made to be fulfilled.

The training focuses on poultry products, snail farming, livestock management, fishery, animal husbandry, integrated irrigation farming system and Modern crops farming techniques.

Vocational skills: Chief of Defence Staff trains 78 retired veterans in North-East

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COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

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COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

The rugged landscape of Operation FASA YEMMA’s area of responsibility came alive with renewed optimism on Wednesday as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, paid his maiden operational visit, engaging frontline troops and assuring them of sustained support, welfare and enhanced joint operations.

The visit, which brought together senior commanders from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, marked a significant boost to the morale of troops deployed across one of Nigeria’s most challenging security theatres.

Addressing the soldiers, Shaibu praised their bravery and resilience, acknowledging the vastness and complexity of the area covered by the operation.

“I am here on my maiden operational visit to Operation FASA YEMMA. The area of responsibility is very large, and we understand what that means for all of you operating under difficult circumstances,” he said.

The COAS disclosed that he had received a thorough brief from the Theatre Commander, detailing operational challenges and requirements.

“I have just listened to a detailed brief from the Theatre Commander, which outlines the challenges the troops are facing, and we are tackling those challenges headlong,” he assured.

He also highlighted the presence of senior representatives from sister services, including the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Navy, reinforcing the commitment to joint inter-service collaboration.

“I am here with the Chief of Air Staff, ably represented by AVM Maddy, the Chief of Operation. Together, we are listening to the challenges of both the air and land components. The representative of the Chief of Naval Staff is also here, listening to the concerns of our Special Boat Service personnel. I assure you all that these issues will be addressed going forward,” he said.

Shaibu emphasized professionalism, discipline and the enduring values of the military as essential tools for confronting the region’s complex security threats.

“I want to encourage you to continue to uphold the core values of the Army and the Armed Forces so that we can tackle the myriad challenges confronting Operation FASA YEMMA,” he said.

In a tone that blended firmness with empathy, the COAS reminded troops of the significance of their service.

“As soldiers, you must understand that the job you are doing is a very noble one. Your presence here has ensured that most people go about their daily duties without fear. For that, we appreciate you,” he said.

He assured them that issues affecting their welfare would remain a priority of the Army leadership.

“Your welfare issues will be given top priority to ensure that you discharge your duties properly. These challenges are transient. Remain resolute, determined, and carry out your duties professionally. The Nigerian people appreciate what you are doing,” he added.

As he prepared to conclude his address, Shaibu opened the floor for direct engagement with the troops.

The visit is seen as part of the Army leadership’s broader effort to strengthen troop confidence, improve operational synergy, and reinvigorate the fight against banditry and terrorism in the North-West.

With vast forest corridors, fluid enemy movements and difficult terrain, Operation FASA YEMMA has remained a critical component of national security efforts.

COAS reassures troops, pledges improved support during operational visit to operation FANSAN YANMA in Zamfara

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