NDLEA Enhances Capabilities to Tackle Cocaine Shipments

The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), announced that the recent training of the agency’s Marine Command officers in diving will significantly deter large shipments of cocaine to Nigeria. Marwa made this statement upon receiving a report on the training from the Agency’s Director of Seaports Operations, Deputy Commander General of Narcotics, Omolade Faboyede.

In a statement by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi, on Tuesday in Abuja, it was highlighted that this new capability will send a strong message to international drug cartels that hiding illicit consignments on ships or vessels coming to Nigeria will no longer be feasible.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the officers underwent training in basic diving, advanced open-water diving, and full-face mask diving. Eight officers were selected from four countries, including two from Nigeria, by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for certification training in Bombinhas City, Brazil, in two phases: November 2023 and July 2024.

According to the UNODC, this diving training initiative aims to bolster the fight against drug trafficking and transnational crime in Cape Verde, Guinea Bissau, Nigeria, and Senegal. The second phase of the training qualified professionals in public safety diving to conduct ship hull searches and enforce the law, thereby enhancing public safety in the fight against transnational drug trafficking.

Marwa commended the two NDLEA officers who participated in the training for their exemplary performance. He stated, “Their new ability to dive into the sea to search ship hulls will no doubt discourage global drug networks from attempting to send any large consignment to Nigeria. This is so, knowing full well that our men now have the capacity to search every nook and cranny of ships and vessels coming to Nigeria.”

The NDLEA boss affirmed that the agency would continue to stay ahead of drug cartels in skills and capability to prevent the smuggling of illicit drugs into Nigeria. “We will also continue to expose our officers, men, and women to training and the use of modern technological tools. This is in our determined bid to keep our country safe by curbing the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking,” he added.

Atletico Madrid to Sign Julian Alvarez for £81.5 Million

Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with Manchester City to secure the services of forward Julian Alvarez for £81.5 million. The transfer fee includes an initial £64.4 million along with potential add-ons amounting to £17.1 million.

This transfer deal sets a new record for Manchester City, surpassing the £50 million paid by Chelsea for Raheem Sterling in 2022.

Julian Alvarez, who decided to finalize his move after Argentina’s participation in the 2024 Olympics football tournament, was part of the team that was knocked out by hosts France last Friday.

Despite manager Pep Guardiola’s desire to retain the 24-year-old forward, Alvarez is open to deciding his future at the club. In line with previous situations involving players like Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, and Aymeric Laporte, Manchester City have chosen not to obstruct the departure of any player wishing to leave.

Atletico Madrid, who have also secured a deal to acquire Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, are currently negotiating personal terms with Julian Alvarez.

Alvarez initially joined Manchester City in 2022 for a fee of £14.1 million from River Plate. He has scored 36 goals in 106 appearances for the club. Additionally, he played a crucial role in City’s successful campaign, including achieving the treble in his first season at the Etihad and prominently featuring during Argentina’s triumph in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Defence Chief Convenes Security Heads Over Tinubu’s Crackdown Order

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, is scheduled to hold a strategic closed-door meeting with all heads of security forces in the country on Tuesday, Daily Trust reports.

Although the agenda of the meeting was not disclosed, it is understood that the discussions will focus on how security forces will implement the crackdown order issued by President Bola Tinubu.

A source at Defence Headquarters, where the meeting will take place, revealed that heads of intelligence agencies such as the DSS, NIA, and DIA, as well as the Inspector-General of Police, will be in attendance. Additionally, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, are expected to be present.

The official also mentioned that heads of Correctional Services, Immigration, Customs, NSCDC, and other paramilitary organizations have been invited to the meeting.

“The meeting will start any moment from now. It is a strategic meeting on the implementation of the order given by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” the official said.

Daily Trust reports that President Tinubu had canceled the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday and summoned all the Service Chiefs to ensure that the ongoing hardship protest does not escalate with the spread of Russian flags.

Russian flags have increasingly appeared on the streets of major Nigerian cities, including Kano and Kaduna, as the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest entered its fifth day on Monday. Protesters, carrying Russian flags, were seen marching and chanting various slogans.

Russia, currently in a cold war with the West, has been linked to coup d’états in West African countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Following a meeting with the President at Aso Rock Villa, the military chief stated that President Tinubu had directed security agencies to clamp down on those involved in what he termed a “treasonable felony.”

In line with this directive, the police have disclosed that they have arrested 31 individuals, including one Ahmed, in connection with the spread of Russian flags.

Lagos Seaports Face N141m in Damages and N103m in Theft Over Six Months – Police Report

In the first half of 2024, property valued at over N141 million was destroyed at Lagos’ major seaports, Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports, according to a recent police report.

The Western Zone of the Police Authority released these figures during the second quarter meeting of the Nigeria Port Consultative Council (NPCC) held in Lagos. The report, presented by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, DCP Ibrahim Abdul, highlights significant security issues at the ports.

The report indicates that theft alone led to a loss of N102.9 million, with only N10.013 million recovered. Between January and June 2024, a total of 103 suspects were arrested in connection with various security breaches, including attacks on vessels and theft of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) property.

DCP Abdul noted that while the overall security situation at the ports remains relatively stable, 57 cases were reported during this period. Of these, 26 cases have been charged to court, 27 are still under investigation, and 3 have been closed. The reported cases include six assaults, two misdemeanours, six stowaways, and 18 thefts.

“Theft alone resulted in a property loss of N102,885,198, with only N10,012,500 recovered,” DCP Abdul stated. He attributed the relatively stable security situation to ongoing crime prevention measures implemented by the police command.

Call for Urgent Focus on Human Capacity Development to Boost Nigeria’s Economy

PORT HARCOURT – Prof. Kingdom Orji, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), has urged Nigerian leaders and stakeholders to prioritize human capacity development. He emphasized the need for organizing skills training and job placement programs for Nigerian youths, women, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups to support the government’s efforts in enhancing their well-being.

In an interview following the 42nd Convocation ceremony at IAUE, Orji highlighted the importance of engaging in dialogues with major companies and professionals to create pathways for growth and success for Nigerians. He stressed that adequate remuneration and job placement are crucial aspects that need attention.

“Moving from poverty to prosperity requires a concerted effort from leaders and stakeholders. They must engage in ongoing discussions and implement effective training and job placement programs,” Orji stated.

He also called for well-sequenced economic reforms to stabilize Nigeria’s economy, noting that even the most beneficial reforms could have negative impacts if not properly executed.

On a positive note, Orji commended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his remarkable contributions to the university’s economic turnaround over the past year, praising the governor’s dynamic and result-oriented approach.

Orji also advised students to stay focused on their studies and avoid social vices such as cultism and examination malpractices. He encouraged graduates to serve as ambassadors for the values and knowledge they have gained during their time at the university.

Security Agencies Urge Protesters to Embrace Dialogue

ABUJA – The Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee (SCIPC) has called on protesters across Nigeria to engage in dialogue with the government. In a joint press briefing hosted by the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday, security, defense, and response agencies emphasized that dialogue, rather than protests, is a more effective means of addressing Nigeria’s issues.

Dr. Peter Afunanya, Director of Strategic Communication and Public Relations for DSS, highlighted that while the right to protest is constitutionally protected, recent protests had been marred by attempts to hijack the process by subversive groups and vandals. He praised the efforts of security agencies to restore order and called for patriotism and collective effort in nation-building.

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) confirmed that no genuine protesters had been arrested during the protests. ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi explained that arrests were made only of individuals involved in violent riots and criminal activities, not of peaceful protesters. He distinguished between lawful protests and unlawful riots, emphasizing that security agencies acted to protect national assets and maintain public order.

In a related incident, a tailor in Kano was arrested for producing Russian flags, allegedly for use in the protests. This, along with other arrests of individuals with similar flags, raised concerns about the motives behind the demonstrations.

The security agencies also reported significant successes in their operations, including the neutralization of terrorists, the arrest of suspected criminals, and the interception of stolen oil. They stressed their commitment to national security while urging all stakeholders to support efforts to build a secure and prosperous Nigeria.

Defence Chief Warns Protesters Over Foreign Flags and Escalation

ABUJA — Amid ongoing protests across the country, General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has warned that demonstrators have crossed a critical line. In a press briefing following a security meeting with President Bola Tinubu, General Musa condemned the display of foreign flags during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

The protest, now in its fifth day, has seen the appearance of Russian flags in cities like Kano, Plateau, Kaduna, and Zamfara. This development has alarmed authorities and led to a call for urgent measures to restore order.

General Musa criticized the protesters for allowing their cause to be exploited by criminal elements. He stated, “The actions of the protesters, including the display of foreign flags and the involvement in looting, justify the government’s stance against the demonstrations.” He emphasized that any involvement with foreign symbols in Nigeria is considered a serious offense, highlighting the administration’s resolve to maintain national sovereignty.

The CDS stressed that the military and other security agencies are fully committed to defending democracy and preventing any attempts at regime change. The recent incidents, which have included looting and destruction of property, have prompted the government to take decisive action.

In response to the escalating situation, the Kaduna State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria to curb the unrest. This measure follows reports of violence and property damage linked to the protests. The state government urges citizens to stay indoors while security forces work to restore order.

Additionally, the Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the arrest of individuals allegedly involved in producing and distributing Russian flags for the protests. The DSS is continuing its investigation and has reassured the public that those responsible will face legal consequences.

The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has disassociated itself from the protests, clarifying that it does not support or coordinate the use of Russian flags in the demonstrations. The embassy stressed that Russia respects Nigerian democracy and does not interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs.

As protests continue, the situation remains volatile, with authorities urging all parties to avoid actions that could further escalate tensions.

NELFUND Allocates ₦20,000 Monthly Support to Over 20,000 Students

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has distributed a monthly stipend of ₦20,000 to 20,371 students from various Nigerian universities for July. This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s pledge to enhance educational support across the country.

NELFUND’s Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, highlighted that this disbursement is part of the federal government’s effort to ensure financial stability for students throughout their academic careers.

Mr. Ibom Uche, Director of Finance and Accounts at NELFUND, confirmed that the stipend also covers the school fees for the beneficiaries. The students receiving the July stipend are enrolled at Bayero University Kano, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, University of Ilorin, University of Benin, University of Ibadan, and University of Maiduguri.

NELFUND is preparing to extend this support to students from approximately 55 additional tertiary institutions, with the process expected to be completed within the next two weeks. The organization remains committed to timely and efficient disbursement of stipends to support the educational goals of Nigerian students.

NELFUND appreciates the patience and cooperation of students and institutions as it continues to deliver on its commitment to providing essential financial assistance.

Kamala Harris to Announce VP Pick and Embark on Key Swing State Tour

US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris is expected to reveal her vice-presidential running mate today. The announcement will be followed by a five-day tour of crucial battleground states, with the presidential election just three months away.

Harris, who recently took over the top spot on the Democratic ticket from Joe Biden, has energized her campaign, surpassing fundraising records and closing the gap with Republican rival Donald Trump. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is widely speculated to be her choice, alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Reports suggest that Harris will make the announcement via a video.

The campaign’s swing state tour will start with a rally at Temple University in Philadelphia, followed by visits to Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona, and Nevada. Planned stops in North Carolina and Georgia have been postponed due to a tropical storm, with the campaign yet to provide details on rescheduling.

Shapiro’s potential selection could bolster Harris’s appeal in Pennsylvania, a key state in the upcoming election. His selection would also make history as the first Jewish vice president, although his stance on Israel has drawn some criticism from the left. Meanwhile, Walz is seen as a strong communicator with a rural Midwestern perspective, though he is viewed as part of the party’s liberal wing.

Other candidates considered include Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Harris began her search for a running mate after Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race on July 21, as Trump gained momentum following a Republican National Convention boost.

Recent polls show Harris gaining ground, with a Morning Consult survey placing her ahead of Trump nationally. However, a CBS News poll highlights challenges, particularly among Black voters, suggesting that the race remains tight. David Axelrod, former strategist for Barack Obama, warns that the battle ahead will be fiercely contested.

Obasanjo: Fuel Importers Likely to Sabotage Dangote Refinery

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has warned that those benefiting from fuel importation in Nigeria will likely attempt to sabotage the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. He praised the refinery as a positive development for both Nigerians and international investors but acknowledged that its success could threaten established interests in the fuel import business.

Obasanjo’s comments come in response to allegations by Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote, who has claimed that certain ‘mafias’ are trying to obstruct the $20 billion refinery project. Reports indicate that the refinery, along with other domestic refineries, has yet to purchase crude oil in naira, as per President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

In an interview with Financial Times, Obasanjo explained that those involved in oil importation may resist the shift towards domestic refining due to fears of losing their lucrative business. He also criticized Nigeria for relying heavily on oil, neglecting gas and agriculture, which he believes should have been central to the country’s economic strategy.

Obasanjo recalled his efforts to invite Shell to manage Nigeria’s refineries during his presidency, but the company declined due to concerns over corruption and poor maintenance.