Uncategorized
Nigeria, Namibia Push for Closer Co-operation
Nigeria, Namibia Push for Closer Co-operation
By: Michael Mike
In a bid to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Namibia, the latter has expressed interest in understudying the operations of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps and recommitting to the ideals of the Nigeria-Namibia Joint Commission of Co-operation.
This was the high point of discussions held between the Namibian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Humphrey Geiseb, and the Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, during a visit by the Namibian Envoy to the Technical Aid Corps office in Abuja.
While noting that the commendable impacts of the Technical Aid Corps Scheme over the past years in their country have left no one in doubt as to its desirability, Amb. Geiseb said Nigeria remains a big-brother nation that made immense contributions to Namibia’s independence struggles and the development of the country in diverse sectors, including Health, Agriculture, Education, Oil and Gas and the Economy, even before the country gained independence.
He recalled that some of the best crops of Civil and Public Service professionals that grew to become Permanent Secretaries, Directors as well as medical professionals and teachers, whose availability ensured a smooth transition from their colonial masters in a newly independent Namibia, were trained by Nigerians.
He again lauded the TAC Scheme for being the means through which his country has today achieved an abundance of medical professionals and teachers,who are even at present prepared to export their skills to other countries. He added that part of the reasons for his visit was also to learn best practices from the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps with regards to its operations, including seeking ways to, in the foreseeable future, request for some identified capacities that may still be lacking in their country.
Ambassador Geiseb also used the opportunity of the visit to push for greater efforts at the Ministerial level between Nigeria and Namibia to re-energize the noble objectives of the Nigeria-Namibia Joint Commission of Co-operation,while stressing that hosting a new Session of the Joint Commission established in the year 2000 and last met fourteen years ago would make for deeper bilateral ties and advance the identified interests of both countries.
Responding,the TAC DG, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, expressed gratitude to the Namibian Envoy for the visit. He reiterated the commitment of the Tinubu Administration to continue to provide technical assistance to brother nations across Africa,the Caribbean and Pacific countries and lauded the vision of the founding fathers of the TAC Scheme,which he pointed out,had in the past 37 years broken foisted geographic barriers among brothers,ensured transfer of technical skills and midwifed cultural exchanges,among other benefits.
He said, although a lot had changed with changing times between the both countries in the area of receiving the Corps’ Volunteers,TAC, however ,would not hesitate to answer the requests of Namibia in whatever areas of technical need or tutelage whenever such requests came.The TAC boss also assured his visitor that he would in the coming days seek audience with the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar,to communicate Namibia’s interest in convoying a new Session of the Joint Commission.
Among those present at the meeting were the Director of Administration at the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Amb. Yakubu Abdullahi Ahmed; the Director of Programmes,Amb. Zakari Usman as well as Mrs Meimunat Haruna Mustapha, a Deputy Director and Head of Accounts at the Agency.
Others included Mr Lawal Adekola, Assistant Director in-charge of Internal Audit; Mrs Caroline Osimnobi of the Accounts Department and Mr Lawandy Bala, Special Assistant to the Director General on Protocol Matters,among others.
The Namibian Envoy was accompanied on the visit by Mr Morris Sisinzi, an Under Secretary at the Namibia High Commission in Abuja.
Nigeria, Namibia Push for Closer Co-operation
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
By: Zagazola Makama
Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), has died following a brief illness.
Rear Admiral Katagum, a highly respected officer of the Nigerian Navy, recently served at Defence Headquarters and was formerly the Chief of Naval Intelligence.
He was recently appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, a role in which he oversaw critical operational activities and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime security.
During his distinguished career, Rear Admiral Katagum’s contributions to national security were immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and mentoring generations of officers who would go on to emulate his professionalism and dedication.
His insight, foresight, and meticulous approach to operations ensured that the Nigerian Navy remained vigilant, formidable, and ready to defend the nation’s maritime interests. His contributions played a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.
The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through the Armed Forces, with his colleagues describing him as a symbol of courage, discipline, and service excellence. Senior naval officers have expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy will endure within the Navy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered for his humility, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of those who served alongside him.
As we mourn this extraordinary officer, we celebrate a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria, a life marked by courage, honor, and excellence.
May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Plateau survivors recounts lynching as reprisals as reprisals fuel fresh killings
APC Leaders, Govs Recommit To Advancing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
Experts Urge Evidence-Based Energy Reforms as Nigeria’s Transition Debate Intensifies
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News10 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
