Uncategorized
Nigeria, UK Sign MoU to Checkmate Illicit Drug Trafficking

Nigeria, UK Sign MoU to Checkmate Illicit Drug Trafficking
By: Michael Mike
The governments of Nigeria and United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will enhance the fight against transnational organized crime, particularly the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited commodities between Nigeria and the UK.
Signing the MoU on Nigeria side is the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and for the UK is the Home Office International Operations (HOIO).

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Monday, the Regional Manager (West Africa) of HOIO, Mr. Ian Cunliffe, expressed appreciation for the productive relationship between NDLEA and HOIO.
He said: “I’d like to start by thanking the chairman for his time today and for the gracious welcome. I know the chairman had a great relationship with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield and with HOIO which has been really, really productive and I am really keen to maintain and enhance that relationship going forward. I think the signing of this MoU today is the beginning of the next phase of our relationship.”
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.) while acknowledging the excellent relationship with HOIO and Cunliffe’s predecessor, said “I have absolutely no doubt that we will also have the same relationship with you. I appreciate the HOIO for all the tremendous work that you have been doing with us.”
Marwa said the MoU “is not just an agreement, it is indeed a reaffirmation of our mutual trust, cooperation, collaboration and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and futures of our respective nations. Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to scale up its drug control measures according to the National Drug Control Master Plan.

“We have a road-map and this MoU adds to the strategy framework by establishing a clear, lawful and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence and operational insights in line with international conventions, national laws and global best practices. Together I know we will close ranks against crime and deepen the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect.
“We are convinced that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement. This partnership will enhance our collective ability to interdict criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed.”
Nigeria, UK Sign MoU to Checkmate Illicit Drug Trafficking
Uncategorized
Operation Safe Haven warns vigilantes against unauthorized missions in Plateau, says 8 vigilantes lost their lives not 70

Operation Safe Haven warns vigilantes against unauthorized missions in Plateau, says 8 vigilantes lost their lives not 70
By: Zagazola Makama
The Headquarters of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has cautioned vigilante groups in Plateau State against embarking on unauthorized security operations without coordinating with recognized security agencies.
The warning followed a recent incident in which eight vigilantes were confirmed killed and several others declared missing after an ambush by armed bandits in Odare Forest, Kanam Local Government Area of the state.
The Army stated this in a statement on Wednesday in Jos, OPSH said the vigilantes, mobilised from Kanam LGA, undertook the mission without notifying the military or seeking approval from OPSH.
The group had halted temporarily in Kukawa community for administrative arrangements when they reportedly clashed with residents, looted provision shops, and seized more than 20 motorcycles under unclear circumstances.
“While advancing towards Odare Forest, the vigilantes were ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in the death of eight members. Others remain unaccounted for,” the statement said.
OPSH disclosed that troops from Sector 2 deployed in Wase have since launched search and rescue operations to recover the missing individuals.
The security outfit, which operates under the Nigerian military, warned that unauthorized missions not only endanger the lives of vigilantes but also pose significant threats to civilians and undermine coordinated counter-terrorism efforts.
“While we appreciate the zeal of community-based groups in safeguarding their areas, all security efforts must be coordinated with OPSH and other statutory forces to avoid unintended consequences,” it added.
The statement reiterated OPSH’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability across Plateau and urged residents to support the military by providing actionable intelligence and promptly reporting suspicious activities.
Operation Safe Haven warns vigilantes against unauthorized missions in Plateau, says 8 vigilantes lost their lives not 70
Uncategorized
FG Saves N1bn Through Passport Reforms Annually, Issues Over 3.5m Passports in Two Years

FG Saves N1bn Through Passport Reforms Annually, Issues Over 3.5m Passports in Two Years
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government on Tuesday said over 3.5 million passports has been issued in less than two years, adding that a massive N1 billion plus have been saved annually through reforms in the nation’s passport processing system.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Ministry’s new Passport Front Office.
Tunji-Ojo said the reforms were implemented in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance efficiency, security, and service delivery.
The minister while stating that the administration met a backlog of over 200,000 unprocessed passports and a debt of nearly ₦20 billion in the sector when it assumed office in 2023, disclosed that the backlog and debt have since been cleared.
He said. “While 3,080,141 passports were issued locally, 466,117 passports were also issued in the diaspora since August 2023. This brings the total of 3,546,258 passports issued “
Tunji-Ojo noted that the ministry also fully automated the upload of breeder documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, which previously cost government about N1 billion annually.
He said: “This is a major reform. We no longer pay contractors for what Nigerians can upload themselves. That money stays with government now.”
The Minister revealed that the number of centres issuing enhanced e-passports had increased from 26 to 44 in Nigeria and from five to 47 in the diaspora, while stating that
all passport offices now issue harmonised enhanced passports in line with global best practices.
He said: “We inherited a system where different types of passports were issued. That affected our credibility. Today, every Nigerian passport is ICAO-compliant and globally verifiable.”
Tunji-Ojo promised that a new passport central personalisation centre with modern technology, provided at no cost by Iris Smart Technologies, would become operational by August 2025.
He commended the company for supporting the government’s reform efforts and providing advanced passport production equipment without cost to the treasury.
He said Nigeria now produces passports in more than 50 locations, both within the country and abroad, and has joined the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Public Key Directory for global passport authentication.
He announced that effective July 31, all applications for Special Expatriate Permits and Temporary Work Permits must be submitted online.
“Manual processing will no longer be allowed. We must have the data, biometrics and documentation of every applicant for national security,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo said the reforms reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to digital governance, transparency, and efficient service delivery.
FG Saves N1bn Through Passport Reforms Annually, Issues Over 3.5m Passports in Two Years
Uncategorized
RARARA’: Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi lack the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu-Shettima in 2027

RARARA’: Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi lack the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu-Shettima in 2027
By: Maina Maina
The political landscape leading up to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is marked by intense rivalry, particularly between the trio of Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, and the incumbent Bola Tinubu alongside his running mate Shettima. Despite their vocal opposition to Tinubu’s administration, many analysts argue that this trio lacks the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed suggests that Atiku, El-Rufai, and Amaechi should step aside to mentor younger leaders who can offer fresh perspectives rather than pursuing power themselves. This recommendation underscores a broader call for renewal in Nigerian politics rather than recycling established figures.
While Atiku and his allies vow to challenge Tinubu’s re-election, citing national insecurity and economic hardship, public sentiment appears divided, with some Nigerians urging unity behind alternative candidates like Peter Obi. However, those truly committed to a vibrant democracy may find greater promise in supporting Tinubu’s proven political strategy combined with Kashim Shettima’s appeal. Thus, dismissing the claims of the opposition trio as lacking substantive engagement aligns with calls for pragmatic leadership that prioritizes national stability over fractious political ambition.
Also, Dauda Kahutu Radar, a prominent Hausa musician, asserted his confidence that he would be given the opportunity to contest the Nigerian presidential election against notable political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-Rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi. He emphasized that his widespread popularity and deep connection with Nigerians surpass the influence of these politicians, who he claims are forming a coalition against the Tinubu-Shettima ticket.
Rarara’s statement reflects a growing trend where cultural icons leverage their public appeal to challenge traditional political actors. This claim underscores an evolving dynamic in Nigerian politics where celebrity status translates into political capital. Although not speaking for himself but for President Tinubu, his confidence stems from his perceived ability to mobilize grassroots support through his music and public persona.
His position challenges established political alliances and raises questions about voter preferences in contemporary Nigeria. Dauda Kahutu Rarara’s declaration highlights how non-traditional candidates might disrupt conventional electoral contests by capitalizing on popular appeal rather than entrenched party structures, a case that makes the coalition’s appeal child’s play.
The Hausa musician, in an interview with DCL Hausa, critically assessed the political legacies of Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, emphasizing their failure to meet the expectations of Nigerian citizens during their respective tenures. According to the musician, these figures have consistently revealed governance approaches that fall short of delivering tangible development and accountability. This pattern of underperformance has eroded public trust and credibility, thereby diminishing their capacity to effectively challenge the current Tinubu administration.
The musician argued that despite their political ambitions and vocal opposition to President Tinubu’s government, Atiku, El-Rufai, and Amaechi lack the moral authority necessary for substantive critique. Their previous governance records do not inspire confidence among Nigerians who seek progressive leadership. Consequently, this perceived deficiency undermines their legitimacy as credible alternatives or critics in Nigeria’s complex political landscape. The musician’s perspective underscores a broader discourse on accountability and leadership efficacy within Nigerian politics.
- Maina Maina writes from Kano.
RARARA’: Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi lack the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu-Shettima in 2027
-
News1 year ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
Opinions4 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
News1 year ago
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Columns1 year ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
ACADEMICS1 year ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Opinions1 year ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
Politics4 weeks ago
2027: Why Hon. Midala Balami Must Go, as Youths in Hawul and Asikira/Uba Federal Constituency Reject ₦500,000 as Sallah Gift