The police in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, have urged residents to remain security-conscious and promptly report suspicious persons, movements and activities. This follows the arrest of suspected armed robbers and members of a one-chance syndicate in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Addressing journalists at the FCT Police Command Headquarters on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, said the Command had continued to intensify covert and overt anti-crime operations across the territory. “Security is a collective responsibility. We will continue to do our part, but we also need your cooperation and support to keep the FCT safe,” Sanusi said. One of the cases involved a suspected one-chance syndicate whose members allegedly robbed a woman of her mobile phone and used electronic transactions to transfer money from her bank account, according to the police. “On the 7th of August 2026, at about 5:00 PM, the FCT Police Command received a distress call reporting that on the same day, a lady (later identified to be the wife of a police officer) boarded a taxi (along) from AYA Roundabout.” In Abuja, “one-chance” robbery commonly refers to crimes in which passengers are robbed by people operating in vehicles presented as commercial transport. In this case, police said investigators used digital evidence to trace electronic transactions and the victim’s mobile phone. Reporting such incidents helps the police “Upon receipt of the report, I directed the Command’s tracking unit to carry out a detailed investigation into the crime. With the aid of digital reconstructive technology, we deconstructed the entire criminal operation, traced all electronic transactions and the mobile phone of the victim till we apprehended eight (8) suspects.” CP Sanusi said IMEI Alteration and Resale of Stolen Phones Sanusi said further investigations led to the recovery of 21 mobile phones and three laptops, including the victim’s phone. He also alleged that one suspect specialised in electronically altering the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of stolen phones before reselling them to avoid detection. An IMEI is a number used to identify a mobile device. Although it can be compared loosely to a vehicle’s chassis number, the two serve different technical purposes. Altering an IMEI may complicate efforts to identify a stolen phone, but it does not necessarily make the device impossible to trace. The commissioner also said investigators had tracked and identified people suspected of receiving stolen property. More Arrests in Separate Armed Robbery Cases In a separate operation, police arrested two suspected members of an armed robbery syndicate. Sanusi said they were arrested on September 17, 2026, at about 2 p.m. along the AYA–Nyanya Expressway. According to the police, the syndicate operated in Abuja and parts of Nasarawa, Niger and Kogi states, and the suspects were arrested after a robbery while attempting to leave the FCT for Nasarawa State. “They were arrested along the AYA–Nyanya Expressway,” the police commissioner said Items recovered included “three locally made pistols, three live cartridges, four knives, 17 mobile phones, two cutlasses and a point-of-sale (POS) machine.” In another case, police arrested a suspect following a complaint of armed robbery reported at Jabi Police Division on October 18. The alleged robbery took place on September 26, when a woman returning home from work was reportedly attacked by a masked assailant armed with a knife. Police said the suspect allegedly assaulted the woman and stole her handbag, which contained an iPhone and other valuables. The suspect was also accused of withdrawing money from her bank accounts while in possession of her phone and ATM card. A surveillance team from Jabi Police Division later arrested the suspect at his residence in Daki-Biyu, Jabi. Items recovered during a search included a sharp knife, a sharp iron, a power bank, and a voter’s card. Police Urge Residents to Remain Vigilant Sanusi urged residents to cooperate with the police and other law enforcement agencies and promptly report suspicious persons, movements and activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency contact lines. He reiterated that maintaining security in the FCT requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies and residents. Related Story: ICPC Chairman Case and Police Accountability in Nigeria
Nigerians Await Tinubu’s Return as Constitutional Process Draws Scrutiny
Nigerians are awaiting the return of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is expected back at the weekend. He extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days. The Presidency says Tinubu has remained in touch with Nigeria while away. It says he continued directing government affairs. This includes ordering a probe into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Minna. Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in New York leading Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st United Nations General Assembly. As the President’s absence extends beyond the 21 days initially announced for his vacation, attention has turned to the constitutional procedure governing presidential authority during such an absence. Tinubu’s Return to Nigeria: Why Section 145 is Trending As the President’s absence extends beyond 21 days, attention has turned to the Constitution. The question is who holds presidential authority during this absence. The Constitution provides for an Acting President during temporary absence: 145. (1) “Whenever the President is proceeding on vacation or is otherwise unable to discharge the functions of his Office, he shall transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to that effect, and until he transmits to them a written declaration to the contrary, the Vice-President shall perform the functions of the President as Acting President. (2) In the event that the President is unable or fails to transmit the written declaration mentioned in subsection (1) of this section within 21 days, the National Assembly shall, by a resolution made by a simple majority of the vote of each House of the National Assembly, mandate the Vice-President to perform the functions of the office of the President as Acting President until the President transmits a letter to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives that he is now available to resume his functions as President.” Section 145 Debate as Tinubu Vacation Continues The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for clarification, asking: “Who presently exercises the constitutional powers of the President… and under what provision of the Constitution?” The party said, “Representation is not governance. Attendance at official functions is not presidential authority.” Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has similarly called for the constitutional position to be clarified, saying Nigerians have not been shown a letter transmitting presidential authority to Shettima. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, however, says there is no vacancy.“I am not the acting president, because the president is still in power,” he said. “Right now there is no vacancy. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is still in power, and still running the affairs of Nigeria.” The focus now is on whether the constitutional process has been followed and whether the relevant official records will be made clear to Nigerians. Featured image courtesy: Presidential Villa, State House via statehouse.gov.ng
Niger Mining Deaths: Questions Grow Over What Happened in NSCDC Custody
The deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State have raised fresh questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, even as authorities investigate the incident. The Corps confirmed the arrest of suspects during coordinated enforcement operations against illegal mining in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the north-central Nigerian state on September 15 and 16. In a fresh statement, the NSCDC says it has set up a high-powered investigative team to establish what happened. The team will examine the suspects’ condition when they were arrested, how long they spent in custody, their detention conditions, and the medical care they received. But for some Nigerians, the investigation must answer a more fundamental question: what happened to the suspects after they were taken into custody? “This statement does not answer the most important question: how did people who were arrested by the NSCDC and placed in its custody end up dead?” Nasiruddeen Abdullahi Isa asked in a Facebook comment. He said the deaths occurred in the custody of the agency and called for an investigation that would establish whether disease, overcrowding, suffocation, toxic exposure, negligence, inadequate medical care, or another factor was responsible. Protests have erupted in the state capital, Minna, over the incident, but Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has called for calm. The state government has also imposed a 24-hour curfew across Minna following the unrest. The curfew started on Friday and will remain in force until further notice. “We are calling on everybody to remain calm to allow law and order take control. We are calling on all the youths to please stay away from violence. It’s not going to bring back the people that have died. It would rather cost us a lot at the end of the day,” he said. Cause of Death Yet to Be Established NSCDC also clarified that reports linking the deaths to a specific disease have not been medically or scientifically confirmed. “The Corps will therefore refrain from speculation until the outcome of the medical examination is established,” the statement said. Governor Bago has also urged caution, saying there are several possibilities. “It could be as a result of suffocation because they were so many in a cell,” he said. “And the second issue could be because of exposure to maybe lead poisoning or other very hazardous chemicals that they are using to do the illegal mining, but it’s too early for anybody to draw conclusion on the root causes.” The Governor said authorities were conducting forensic and medical examinations, including autopsies. For families of the deceased and others demanding answers, the medical and forensic examination is therefore central to establishing what happened. Muhammad Tahir Potiskum, in his online comment, called for a full autopsy and an independent investigation, asking authorities to establish the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, where they were detained, whether they received adequate food, water and medical care, whether they showed signs of illness and whether anyone was taken to hospital. “We are not asking people to jump to conclusions. We are asking for facts,” he said. Questions Extend Beyond the Deaths Beyond the cause of death, the tragedy has also raised questions about mining enforcement. It has put the conditions under which authorities enforce environmental and mining laws under scrutiny. Governor Bago said the authorities had closed the mining site. “Anybody that is found there is on his own, because this is the reason why we are here. People go there without the necessary mining technology and mining gears and just do a lot of mining,” he said. The NSCDC assures that it “remains resolute in its mandate to combat illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s critical national assets”, while also upholding “the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody.” A Federal Government delegation to Minna, led by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, with the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has visited the Niger State Government over the incident. The Federal Government has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The Federal Government also suspended Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the Commandant in Niger State, pending the investigation. Residents, families and Nigerians online are calling for a transparent investigation. They want authorities to establish what happened between the arrests and the deaths. They also want to know whether anyone breached a duty of care. “Even if they were arrested for illegal mining, they did not forfeit their right to life, dignity or humane treatment,” Abdullahi Muhammad Salis wrote. “Once you take a person into your custody, you assume responsibility for that person’s safety.” As the families of the 37 deceased cry out for justice, many Nigerians and advocates continue raising questions around mining, indigenous communities, and regulation. By Nonye Aghaji | Editor: Uwais Idris
Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris at 60: The Voice That Refused to Be Silent
Written by Uwais Abubakar Idris After 34 years in broadcasting and public service, he retires at 60 to focus full-time on governance advocacy On Friday, 31 July 2026, Zubair Abdurrauf Idris, WAMAC Executive Director, marks two remarkable milestones. Specifically, Zubair turns 60 and retires from Nigeria’s civil service after 34 years of distinguished service in broadcasting, media leadership, advocacy, and community development. For many, retirement marks the end of a career. However, for Zubair Abdurrauf Idris, it marks the beginning of a new chapter built on a legacy that has already left a lasting mark on journalism, public service, and society. A Career That Crossed Borders At Deutsche Welle, Cologne Over three decades, Zubair built a career that reached far beyond Nigeria’s borders. Indeed, his voice travelled across continents, telling Nigeria’s stories to the world while bringing global events closer to home. Furthermore, Zubair’s work took him across the length and breadth of Nigeria, producing documentaries and special reports that captured the country’s diverse cultures, people, and traditions. Later, the Nigerian broadcaster joined Deutsche Welle (DW) in Cologne, Germany, where he served in the Africa, Middle East and Hausa Service between 1997 and 2002. At DW, Zubair was more than a news editor. In fact, he was an innovator. The DW Editor introduced Dandalin Matasa, a programme that gave young people a platform to discuss national issues. In addition, he transformed Mutum Da Duniyarsa into a programme that brought environmental protection and climate change into everyday public discussion. Ultimately, his work reflected a simple belief: broadcasting should not only inform. Rather, it should educate, engage, and inspire. From Broadcaster to Media Leader Upon returning to Nigeria, Zubair moved naturally into media management. In 2002, he became Executive Director of Radio Services at the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC). A year later, he was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of KSMC Radio and Television, a position he held until 2009. Thereafter, he returned to the Voice of Nigeria, where his experience and leadership earned him progressive promotions until he became Director of Programmes Operations. Throughout his service, he focused on strengthening institutions and mentoring younger broadcasters. Building Institutions Beyond Public Service Even while on research leave, Zubair was not content to sit back. In 2017, he founded Prestige Radio 91.7 FM in Minna, the first privately owned radio station in Niger State. Moreover, Legacy Radio in Suleja has since been fully developed and awaits final operational approval from the National Broadcasting Commission. Clearly, these stations stand as lasting investments in community broadcasting. How WAMAC Executive Director Zubair Abdurrauf Idris Used Media for Public Good Zubair’s greatest strength has never been his titles. Instead, it has always been his commitment to using the media to improve society. As co-founder of the Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC), and with support from the MacArthur Foundation’s On Nigeria Project, he became one of the leading voices promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance. Specifically, through town hall meetings held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, he brought together traditional rulers, students, traders, civil servants, women, and young people to discuss corruption and public accountability. His Approach was Different Unlike many, he did not simply speak to communities. Rather, he listened to them. In addition, he encouraged dialogue, built trust, and helped ordinary citizens become part of the national conversation. Watch: Zubair Abdur’rauf Idris reflects on service and legacy Standing With His Community Zubair Abdur’rauf Idris, Danmasani of Birnin Gwari Emirate Away from broadcasting, Zubair earned deep respect as a community leader. The Birnin Gwari Emirate recognised his service by conferring on him the traditional title of Danmasani, Senior Councillor of the Emirate. During the difficult years when Birnin Gwari faced persistent attacks by bandits and kidnappers, he became one of the respected voices advocating peace and dialogue. He used his influence to support efforts that helped reduce insecurity in the area. While many chose silence, he chose engagement. As a result, he spoke for his people and remained committed to finding practical solutions. Service Beyond the Newsroom Zubair’s commitment to public service eventually led him into politics. Ahead of the 2023 general elections, he sought to represent the Birnin Gwari/Giwa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Today, he serves as a member of the Governing Board of the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), representing the North-West geopolitical zone. Whether in broadcasting, advocacy, community leadership, or public administration, his guiding principle has remained unchanged: service before self. A Life of Service and Influence With Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka In audience with former President Ibrahim Babangida Danmasani of Birnin Gwari Emirate The Legacy of Zubair Abdurrauf Idris Civil service regulations may require retirement at the age of 60, but influence is not measured by years in office. After 34 years behind the microphone and in leadership, Zubair Abdur’rauf Idris leaves public service with a reputation built on professionalism, integrity, innovation, and compassion. He helped shape public broadcasting, mentored generations of journalists, and stood firmly with his community during some of its most difficult moments. Finally, as Zubair joins the ranks of Nigeria’s distinguished sexagenarians, colleagues and friends share one hope: that retirement will not slow him down. About the Author ✍️ Uwais Abubakar Idris Freelance Journalist, DW-RADIO and TELEVISION, Abuja
PRESS RELEASE
WAMAC CONDEMNS ARREST AND DETENTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS JOURNALIST Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) is appalled and outraged by the brazen arrest and detention of our Human Rights Journalist and Investigative reporter, Ahmed Isa Sakpe, in Minna, Niger State. Sakpe was picked up by the Niger State Police Command on the orders of Governor Umar Bago’s protocol officer, B. Y. Daban, on trumped-up charges of cyberbullying, simply for doing his job as a journalist. This latest incident is a stark reminder of the Niger State Government’s blatant disregard for press freedom and its penchant for using state machinery and security agencies to harass, intimidate, and silence journalists. The actions of the protocol officer and the police are a gross abuse of power and a clear attempt to muzzle the voice of the people. WAMAC views this as a deliberate and calculated effort to suppress investigative journalism and stifle dissenting voices in Niger State. The government’s actions are a throwback to the dark days of military rule, where journalists were routinely harassed, detained, and intimidated for speaking truth to power. We recall that the International Press Institute (IPI) had previously blacklisted the Governor and Government of Niger State for similar actions, yet nothing seems to have changed. The government’s continued disregard for press freedom and human rights is a worrying trend that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. WAMAC demands the immediate release of Ahmed Isa Sakpe and an end to the harassment of journalists in Niger State. We call on Amnesty International, IPI, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, and other Human Rights organizations to intervene and salvage journalism practice in Niger State from the claws of tyranny. The people of Niger State deserve to be informed, and it is the duty of journalists to hold those in power accountable. We will not be silenced! Signed Nonye Aghaji Public Affairs and New Media Specialist Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC)
MacArthur’s Kole Shettima Urges Collaboration and Innovation to Sustain Investigative Journalism
Financial sustainability remains a critical challenge for investigative journalism worldwide, but organizations can survive and thrive by strengthening collaboration, sharing costs, and innovating from within. This was the central message from Dr. Kole Shettima, Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office and Co-Director of the On Nigeria Big Bet, during a panel on “Strategies for Sustainability” at the Global Investigative Journalism Conference (GIJC25). Speaking alongside nonprofit media leaders and philanthropic partners working on long-term funding models, Dr. Shettima explained that sustainability is no longer just about finding money; it is about building systems that allow investigative journalism to continue with or without large external grants. As Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office and Co-Director of the Foundation’s On Nigeria initiative, Shettima has overseen grant-making in areas including: Under the On Nigeria programme, the Foundation has backed investigative reporting, newsroom development, capacity-building, and collaborations aimed at strengthening journalism across the country. Shettima noted that one of the outcomes of recent media support and collaborations is the emergence of a stronger ecosystem of investigative journalism organizations across Nigeria and Africa. “People have come together to strengthen an ecosystem whereby they are working together,” he said. “That has created a sense of community, a sense of working together with each other… and I think that is going to be one of the major ingredients for the future.” According to him, organizations are now incubating new groups, sharing ideas, supporting one another, and developing a collective identity that helps the entire sector stay afloat in the face of shrinking revenue streams and increasing political pressure. Collaboration and Innovation to Sustain Investigative Journalism Beyond donor funding, Shettima encouraged media organizations to explore new ways of generating revenue or cutting costs internally, which he described as “diversification within.” This includes experimenting with services or products that audiences are willing to support financially, as well as adopting more efficient operational models. He echoed other speakers who pointed out that media houses must now think like modern enterprises, being creative, flexible, and audience-driven. Shettima highlighted practical examples of how Nigerian media outlets are already sharing resources to stay afloat. “Some of the legacy publications, you know, some of them in Abuja, some of them in Lagos, so the Abuja people will publish some of the papers for the people in Lagos, and the Lagos people will publish some of the papers for the Abuja people, so that you don’t have to have two production systems and other things as well.” He explained that this type of cost-sharing helps news organizations cut expenses without reducing the quality of their output, a practical approach in today’s challenging media landscape. Shettima noted that the future of investigative journalism will be stronger when journalists collaborate more. He said a growing sense of solidarity, “this is our community and our work”, is becoming one of the sector’s most important sustainability strengths. This is already translating into: Also Read – Investigative Journalism in Africa Faces Threats – Anas Aremeyaw
Investigative Journalism in Africa Faces Threats – Anas Aremeyaw
By Zubair Idris, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Renowned investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas of Ghana’s THIRD EYE shared his insights on the existential threats to investigative journalism in Africa, particularly through data protection laws and cybersecurity acts. In an interview with Zubair Idris in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during the four-day Global Investigative Journalism Conference, which began on Friday, Anas emphasized the need for African countries to strengthen their democratic institutions to enhance good governance and accountability. He emphasized that a thriving democracy is essential for investigative journalism to flourish, allowing journalists to hold those in power accountable without fear of intimidation or harassment. Anas, known for his fearless and incisive reporting, highlighted the importance of an independent judiciary, a free press, and an active civil society in addressing the growing threats to investigative journalism in Africa, thereby promoting good governance and accountability. He noted that when these institutions are weak, corruption and abuse of power can thrive, undermining the rule of law and democratic principles. Anas’ remarks are particularly relevant in the African context, where many countries continue to grapple with challenges related to governance, corruption, and accountability. Confronting Threats to Investigative Journalism Through Stronger Legal Frameworks To address these challenges, Anas advocated for increased support for investigative journalism and the protection of journalists’ rights. He also emphasized the need for African governments to implement policies and laws that promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. “There are many lessons African countries can learn from Europe and other countries to perfect its democracy and accountability through Investigative Journalism”. By doing so, African countries can strengthen their democratic institutions, promote economic development, and improve the lives of their citizens. “Corruption and bad leadership are holding Africa back, and it’s time for governments to strengthen institutions and take a more pragmatic approach to tackle corruption”. Anas added. The four-day Global Investigative Journalism Conference, GIJC25, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is attended by 1,500 Investigative journalists from 97 countries, with several panel sessions, including one on “Privacy vs Accountability: Countering Regulations that Affect Investigative Journalism.”
JAMB Walks Out on House Committee Over Media Presence
…Committee gives Registrar till Tuesday to appear or face sanctions There was an unexpected turn of events at Nigeria’s National Assembly on Wednesday when the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) staged a walkout on the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies. Chaired by Hon. Oboku Oforji, the Committee convened to examine JAMB’s 2023–2024 financial performance. This included its internally generated revenue, remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and bank transactions from 2023 to date. Lawmakers disclosed that the committee sent three consecutive letters to JAMB on October 6, 17, and 23, 2025. They requested the documents and the personal appearance of the Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. However, instead of honouring the invitation, the Registrar sent a Director, Mufutau Bello, to represent him. Committee Stands Firm as JAMB Representatives Walk Out A moment of tension occurred when Bello insisted that journalists vacate the room, citing the sensitive nature of the documents he intended to present. The Committee refused, maintaining that its proceedings were public and constitutionally empowered to determine how its sittings were conducted. However, the JAMB representative directed his team to leave and walked out of the session, an action that took members of the Committee by surprise. Responding to the walkout, the Committee ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to detain the JAMB officials, but they had already left the premises. Committee Chairman, Hon. Oforji described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable”. He warned that the legislature would not tolerate acts of disrespect or attempts to undermine its oversight authority. “We wrote three consecutive letters to the Registrar requesting these documents. Instead of appearing, he sent a former Director who accused us of trying to embarrass JAMB. That is very unfortunate,” Oforji said. He emphasized that the Committee’s mandate is to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. He noted that oversight guides its actions, not punitive intent. “Our duty is to ensure every agency under our watch is accountable to Nigerians,” Oforji added. House Committee Sets Tuesday Deadline for JAMB Registrar The Committee has now given JAMB till Tuesday for the Registrar to appear in person with his management team and present all the requested documents. “Failure to do so,” Oforji warned, “will compel the Committee to invoke its powers under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).” Reps React to JAMB walkout on House Committee Speaking to Journalists after the meeting, Members of the Committee criticized JAMB’s action, describing it as a contempt of Parliament and a slap on democratic accountability. Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante said the JAMB walkout on House Committee signaled a dangerous disregard for legislative authority. “If JAMB can walk out on a National Assembly committee, it means they no longer see themselves as accountable to Nigerians. Oversight is not a favour it’s a constitutional duty,” he said. Abiante hinted at possible financial irregularities, recalling previous controversies involving missing public funds. “We’ve heard stories where money was swallowed by snakes. Maybe this time, a bigger creature has done the swallowing,” he said. It will be recalled that in 2018, an accountability case drew national attention after a JAMB clerical officer claimed that a snake swallowed over thirty million Naira in her custody. Hon. Rodney Amboiowei faulted the agency’s attempt to bar the press, insisting that public funds must be publicly accounted for. “No agency has the right to dictate how Parliament conducts its business. Nigerians deserve to know how their money is spent,” he said. Additionally, Hon. Marie Enenimiete Ebikake expressed shock that the person leading the delegation was not even the Registrar. “We don’t know who this man is. He refused to identify himself. For all we know, he could have been impersonating someone else. The Registrar must appear by Tuesday to explain what JAMB is doing with public funds,” she stated. The Committee warned JAMB that any further disregard would attract parliamentary sanctions, as it adjourned the session to Tuesday, November 4, 2025. READ ALSO:
Tajudeen Seeks Special African Parliamentary Forum to Tackle Resource Conflicts
The Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, has recommended the creation of a special African parliamentary forum. The goal, he said, is to promote responsible resource governance and ensure natural resources are harnessed to serve and empower the African people. Tajudeen made the call while delivering his remarks on Wednesday at the opening of the 8th Conference of the Network of African Parliamentarians for Defence and Security Committees (REPAM-CDS) in Abuja. The conference is titled “Security Governance of Natural Resources in Africa: Parliamentarians Confronted with New International Security Dynamics.” Reinforcing the call for collective action, Tajudeen said the proposed parliamentary forum will monitor regions experiencing resource conflicts. It will collaborate with regional legislative bodies to collect data, recommend safeguards, and support community-led development initiatives. He added that the struggle for peace is also a struggle for responsible stewardship of Africa’s natural endowments. According to him, illicit mining, opaque oil contracts, and unregulated timber corridors generate dangerous revenue streams. These streams arm insurgents, corrupt institutions, and deprive communities of the dividends of growth. “Where resource governance is weak, violence takes root; where it is transparent and accountable, prosperity and stability follow. Nigeria’s recent reforms illustrate the point. “I recommend that our parliaments form a special forum to monitor regions with resource conflicts. “Let us unite with unwavering resolve to strengthen our committees and harness our natural resources responsibly, ensuring they serve and empower our people,” he said. African Parliamentarians Call for Joint Action on Digital Protection, Security Threats, and Resource Mismanagement Beyond natural resources governance, Tajudeen called for a continent-wide agreement on digital sovereignty to help countries protect their cyberspace and financial systems without infringing on civil rights. More importantly, he said Africans are watching their parliamentarians closely. Specifically, they want them to turn debates into real action, match words with results, and protect democracy, dignity, and our shared heritage. To that end, the speaker said the National Assembly is ready to help. It will do so by sharing expertise, creating centres for legislative drafting, strengthening intelligence cooperation, and supporting a free press that promotes accountability. In a related remark, the Chairman, House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Rep. Ahmed Satomi (APC-Borno) said that parliamentarians play crucial roles in ensuring effective oversight, transparency, and accountability in the management of natural resources and security forces. Satomi said lawmakers should ensure responsible resource governance and, as such, use legislative instruments to achieve sustainable and credible management of natural resources. These efforts must reflect specific local circumstances and align with the global governance agenda. “We must work together to develop durable and people-centred security solutions, aligning constitutional provisions with evolving threats and realities on the ground. “I am delighted that the fundamental objectives of our Network have strongly and strategically positioned us to undertake these responsibilities. “Let us therefore work together to address these pressing security challenges and ensure that our natural resources contribute to the prosperity and stability of our great continent,” he said. Responsible Resource Governance: Gambian Deputy Speaker Urges Continental Unity to Defend Africa’s Sovereignty and Ensure Peace Reinforcing the call for collective action, the Deputy Speaker of The Gambian Parliament, Mr. Seedy Njie, said that security matters concern every stakeholder, saying members of parliament want the citizens of Africa to live in peace and harmony. He tasked security chiefs across the continent with protecting Africa’s territorial integrity. He also emphasized the importance of defending the sovereignty of each nation. “I urged all service chiefs in Nigeria and beyond to work tirelessly to ensure that our people live in peace and harmony. “The issue of fear, terrorism, bandits, and armed robbery is becoming common in the sub-Saharan Africa, and we need to do whatever it takes us to take our responsibility seriously and defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty of our nations,” he said. He assured the parliamentarians were willing to work with the Federal Government in the advancement of the social-economic well-being of Africa. NSA Calls for Continental Collaboration to Curb Terrorism and Instability Linked to Natural Resource Conflicts Also speaking, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said that the competition for resources had led to conflicts between communities, herders, and farmers, exacerbating existing tensions in several countries. Ribadu, represented by the Director of Defence Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla (rtd) said the mismanagement of natural resources had serious consequences. It has led to economic instability, corruption, and widespread poverty. Additionally, the NSA said the extraction of natural resources has also posed security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Moreover, in response to these challenges, Ribadu emphasized the need for a united front to tackle the growing threats linked to natural resource extraction. Accordingly, he said, addressing the challenges requires a broad and coordinated response. “We must come together to address the challenges we face; we need a comprehensive approach.” Meanwhile, as part of the approach, he highlighted the importance of intelligence coordination and border security. “We need to share intelligence and coordinate efforts to prevent and counter security threats related to natural resources extraction. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of technology and community engagement in preventing insecurity and radicalisation. “We need to leverage technology to detect and neutralize threats before they materialise and engage with local communities to raise awareness and prevent radicalization that fuels terrorism,” he said. Read Also: Lawmakers Tackle Mining Law Violations in Nigeria
Baro Inland Port: Reps Committee Moves to Revive Long-Abandoned National Asset
In a renewed push to revamp Nigeria’s inland waterway infrastructure, the House of Representatives’ Ad-hoc Committee on the Rehabilitation and Operationalisation of the Baro Inland Port has held its inaugural meeting. Its chairman, Hon. Saidu Abdullahi, outlined a mandate to transform decades of unfulfilled promises into tangible action. Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Wednesday, at the National Assembly Complex, Hon. Abdullahi emphasized the critical importance of moving beyond rhetoric to concrete efforts that will see the Baro Port, located in Niger State, fully operational, restoring its historical role as a vital economic artery in Nigeria’s logistics network. “This committee is tasked with converting the endless talk over the years into real action. Baro Inland Port is a sleeping giant, and our job is to wake it,” he said. Baro Inland Port Once Thrived as Colonial Hub, Now a Case for Modern Revival Hon. Abdullahi recalled the rich history of the Baro Inland Port, which served as a strategic logistics hub during the colonial era. Back then, agricultural produce from northern Nigeria was transported through a seamless multimodal system, via rail to Baro and then by inland waterways to the coastal ports. However, the post-independence focus on oil revenues and road infrastructure led to a sharp decline in inland waterway investments. This neglect, he noted, has come at a cost not only economically, but also in terms of environmental sustainability and road infrastructure longevity. To highlight the untapped potential of inland ports, Hon. Abdullahi drew from international examples. He recounted a recent visit to China’s Yangtze River Port, which stretches over 6,100 kilometers and hosts vibrant commercial activity. Likewise, he referenced the Mississippi River Port system in the United States, which spans more than 12,000 miles and supports trade across 31 states. “These examples are proof that inland waterways can be the backbone of national logistics. If countries like China and the U.S. have built prosperity around such systems, Nigeria too must rise to the occasion,” he said. Baro Inland Port: A Strategic Link in Reviving Multimodal Transport and Unlocking Regional Trade According to Hon. Abdullahi, three major components currently preventing the Baro Inland Port from becoming operational are, the dredging of the capital channel, ensuring navigability for vessels along the river; rail connectivity between Baro and Minna, linking the port to the larger national rail grid; and access roads to the port, providing viable land routes for cargo movement. “All necessary operational equipment has already been procured by the federal government. What remains is to fix these three key issues so the port can start functioning as designed,” he said. PPP Model, Stakeholder Collaboration Crucial to Realising Baro Port’s Potential The committee’s role, the chairman explained, is to coordinate relevant stakeholders, identify the roadblocks, and design collaborative solutions that will make the port viable again. In addressing the broader question of infrastructure financing, Hon. Abdullahi stressed that Nigeria cannot rely solely on public funds. He argued that the government alone cannot carry that burden. “The reality is that we must explore innovative financing and private-sector partnerships. If we continue waiting for government budgets alone, we won’t achieve even half of what’s needed,” he said. He advocated for exploring investment windows, development finance institutions, and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to help revive infrastructure like the Baro Port and others. Hon. Abdullahi expressed confidence that the committee’s work will not only revamp the Baro Port but also serve as a national model for how to successfully plan and execute infrastructure revival. “With the quality and diversity of members drawn from all six geopolitical zones, this committee is well-equipped to deliver. What we build here can become a reference point for future projects across Nigeria,” he said. He called on the media to play a key role in amplifying the conversation and holding all parties accountable throughout the process. “This is serious work. We’ll be depending on you to give this assignment the visibility it deserves. Let’s revive Baro together, for commerce, for communities, and for the country,” he said. Hon. Abdullahi thanked the participants and announced that the committee would soon roll out a comprehensive engagement plan. He also revealed that a technical committee had been commissioned to support the achievement of their mandate. The Committee’s work plan was adopted at the meeting. Subsequently, members emphasized the need for regional alignment and strategic planning, particularly around attracting global shipping lines, to ensure the success of the long-abandoned facility. Baro Inland Port Holds Promise Beyond Nigeria, Says Wase Former Deputy Speaker Idris Wase, a committee member, stressed the need to understand the project’s full scope. He also highlighted its regional significance. “This project is not just for Niger State; we’re speaking as representatives of Nigeria. When discussing the Baro Port, it’s important to be clear that it’s not just for Niger or even Nigeria. The project has the potential to serve the wider Northern African sub-region. That’s the original conception behind it,” he said. He, therefore, urged members and consultants to frame the project in national terms during engagements. “When presenting to this parliament, we must speak as Nigerians, not locals. I know it’s easy to get carried away by enthusiasm, but let’s not water down the national significance of this discussion,” he said. Without Shipping Line Incentives, Baro Port Risks Repeat of Past Failures Another member of the Committee and Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Hon Leke Abejide, raised a technical concern over the lack of incentives for major shipping lines, which has caused similar ports across Nigeria to fail. “We’ve seen this happen with other ports, Calabar, Warri. They failed because planners didn’t factor in incentives for shipping lines. No port can thrive if shipping companies don’t see value in using it,” he said. Abejide cited global examples like the Lagos Free Trade Zone, which attracted a major shipping line. That move, he explained, created a ripple effect, forcing other lines to compete and increasing traffic at the port. “You don’t need to attract everyone