Astana’s Belarusian midfielder #07 Max Ebong (C) fights for the ball with Chelsea’s English midfielder #32 Tyrique George (R) during the UEFA Conference League football match between FC Astana and Chelsea FC in Astana on December 12, 2024. (Photo by Konstantin CHALABOV / AFP) Chelsea made it five wins in five Europa Conference League outings on Thursday with a 3-1 victory against Astana in Almaty. A much-changed Chelsea side battled the frigid conditions in Kazakhstan and won to all but guarantee a top-eight finish in the league phase, which would ensure automatic qualification to the round of 16. Chelsea sit top of the standings on 15 points, three ahead of Legia Warsaw who are the only other side to boast a perfect record in the competition. The Polish side will seek to draw level with Chelsea when they host Lugano of Switzerland later on Thursday. The defeat leaves Astana in the final knock-out play-off spot with four points and at risk of elimination. Chelsea wrapped up the points in the first half through goals from Marc Guiu and Renato Veiga. Marin Tomasov pulled one back for the hosts on the stroke of half-time but Enzo Maresca’s side rarely looked troubled in the second half as they closed out the win. Guiu gave Chelsea the perfect start by netting a brace inside the opening 20 minutes, bringing his tally in Europe to three goals in five appearances this season. His first on 14 minutes showcased the ex-Barcelona attacker’s budding talent as he drove past a defender on the right flank before stroking home from an acute angle. The 18-year-old Spaniard doubled up four minutes later with a striker’s goal as he forced the ball home at the front post following good wing play by Pedro Neto. Renato Veiga, 21, headed in Chelsea’s third from a corner on 39 minutes. Croatian veteran Tomasov scored the pick of the goals in the 45th minute as he stood up Renato Veiga in the box before arcing a fine left-footed strike in off the far post. Earlier, Djurgarden of Sweden provisionally moved up to sixth with a 2-1 win at Vikingur Reykjavik despite finishing with 10 men. REA DALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
President Bola Tinubu is set to present the 2025 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly on Tuesday, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s fiscal planning. Key Details of the Budget Presentation Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed during Thursday’s plenary that the presentation will take place in the House of Representatives chamber. Earlier, the Federal Government proposed a total expenditure of ₦47.9 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year, as announced on November 14. Subsequently, President Tinubu submitted the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) for 2025–2027 to both chambers of the National Assembly on November 19. The MTEF/FSP outlines the parameters for the nation’s budget and provides a projection for government spending over three years. On December 3, the Senate approved these documents, paving the way for the budget’s consideration. Highlights of the 2025 MTEF/FSP This comprehensive framework reflects the Federal Government’s approach to addressing economic challenges and driving growth through strategic fiscal policies. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu has extended an invitation to the German government and private enterprises to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria’s energy and solid minerals sectors. During a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his delegation at the State House on Wednesday, Tinubu emphasized his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. He assured the delegation that his government has taken significant steps to remove administrative bottlenecks and strengthen security measures, making Nigeria a promising destination for investments in these critical sectors. A statement from the Presidency quoted Tinubu, saying, “Unlocking the potential of the energy sector is pivotal to Nigeria’s development.” The President directed key ministries, including Solid Minerals, Power, Foreign Affairs, and Industry, Trade, and Investment, to collaborate with investors in advancing these industries. Highlighting Nigeria’s potential, Tinubu stressed the importance of developing alternative energy sources and utilizing the country’s vast solid mineral deposits. He stated, “We have abundant sunlight for renewable energy and substantial reserves of critical minerals like lithium. Let’s deepen our partnership and drive industrialization through natural resource exploration.” Tinubu also underscored the value of domestic and foreign investments in fostering economic growth and skill development, particularly among Nigeria’s youth, many of whom have been trained in Germany. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlighted Germany’s €1 billion fund aimed at diversifying renewable energy supply chains. He encouraged German companies to explore Nigeria’s resources, including cobalt, nickel, and lithium, essential for energy transitions. Alake also pointed out the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which has introduced tax incentives, enhanced security, and streamlined operations within the solid minerals sector. Key attendees, including Finance Minister Wale Edun, Trade and Investment Minister Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu, reiterated the government’s commitment to collaboration and growth. Key Takeaways: READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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The United Kingdom has lauded Governor Peter Mbah for his impressive progress in Enugu State, highlighting achievements across key sectors such as infrastructure, health, security, and economic growth. During a recent visit, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ms. Gill Lever, expressed admiration for Mbah’s leadership and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the state. Ms. Lever, speaking at the Enugu Government House, praised the governor’s dedication to improving public services and modernizing governance through e-governance initiatives. She emphasized the UK’s longstanding bilateral relationship with Nigeria and its readiness to collaborate for mutual development. UK Supports Digital Transformation in Enugu The UK government has played a vital role in Enugu’s digital transformation efforts. Notably, over 500 civil servants have received digital skills training through a partnership between the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the Enugu SME Centre, and Tech4Dev. This initiative aligns with Governor Mbah’s vision of transitioning the state’s bureaucracy from manual operations to a fully digital system. Ms. Lever stated, “The training program equips civil servants with the skills to enhance service delivery, increase accountability, and curb revenue leakages. We are committed to supporting Governor Mbah’s forward-thinking agenda, which benefits both Enugu and the UK.” Governor Mbah Welcomes UK Collaboration Governor Mbah expressed gratitude for the UK’s support, particularly in digital capacity building and technical assistance for the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission. He highlighted the positive impact of these initiatives on service quality and revenue management, emphasizing their importance for sustainable development. “We’re thrilled about the digital training provided to our civil servants,” Mbah noted. “This initiative ensures accountability, enhances service delivery, and aligns with our goal of a digitally compliant workforce.” Enugu Digital Literacy Skills Program A key moment of Ms. Lever’s visit was the presentation of certificates to participants of the Enugu Digital Literacy Skills Training Programme. This collaboration among the Enugu SME Centre, FCDO, and Tech4Dev is a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering digital literacy for improved governance. Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s openness to further collaboration with the UK government, exploring areas such as economic growth and infrastructure development. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has issued a strong warning to Christians about the dangers of pride, labeling it as one of humanity’s greatest spiritual adversaries. During the ongoing Holy Ghost Congress themed “Onward Christian Soldiers” at Redemption City, Pastor Adeboye shared a profound message titled “Subdue the Flesh.” He stressed the need for humility as a cornerstone of the Christian faith and warned against the devastating effects of pride. “Pride leads to overconfidence and is the root of ingratitude. If you struggle to be genuinely grateful to God or find it hard to praise Him wholeheartedly, then pride is likely the issue,” Pastor Adeboye cautioned. The Call to Humility Pastor Adeboye emphasized the importance of attributing all accomplishments to God and avoiding any sense of self-importance in divine matters. He noted: “Never think God is helpless without you; rather, you are helpless without Him.” Citing biblical examples of those who suffered due to pride, he reinforced the scriptural warning from James 4:6: “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Allowing pride into your heart means you risk losing God as your ally.” Announcing a 100-Day Fast In a significant announcement, Pastor Adeboye revealed plans for a 100-day fasting and prayer exercise for RCCG members in 2025, marking a decade since the last such event in 2015. While the exact start date remains unspecified, the program is expected to begin early in the year, in line with tradition. Addressing concerns about the rigors of the fast, he assured participants of God’s strength to sustain them. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has addressed Kemi Badenoch, the UK Conservative Party leader of Yoruba descent, urging her to reconsider her public remarks about Nigeria. Shettima suggested that Badenoch could remove “Kemi” from her name if she was not proud of her Nigerian heritage rather than speaking negatively about her ancestral country. Badenoch, who spent part of her childhood in Lagos, has been candid about her experiences in Nigeria, describing it as a city “where fear was everywhere,” according to a recent report by The Telegraph. She often highlights the insecurity and corruption she witnessed growing up during a military dictatorship. Vice President Shettima, however, criticized her remarks, emphasizing that Badenoch should reflect pride in her roots. He compared her to former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who, despite his Indian heritage, has never disparaged his ancestral nation. Shettima remarked, “Rishi Sunak is originally from India, yet he has never denigrated his roots or poured venom on his country of ancestry.” Badenoch’s spokesperson responded to Shettima’s remarks, stating that she stands by her statements, noting, “She tells the truth as it is and doesn’t sugarcoat her words. She is not a PR representative for Nigeria.” During a recent trip to the U.S., Badenoch recounted her experiences in Nigeria during the 1980s, saying, “Almost everything seemed broken. I watched my family’s financial stability crumble due to inflation caused by destructive government policies.” She highlighted issues such as capital controls, restricted freedom of movement, state control of businesses, and human rights abuses, including arrests without trial and extrajudicial killings. Despite her criticisms, Shettima underscored Nigeria’s significance, describing it as “the greatest black nation on earth.” Born Olukemi Olufunto Adegoke in Wimbledon, south London, Badenoch’s Nigerian parents had traveled to the UK for private healthcare. The family later returned to Nigeria before she moved back to the UK at age 16 to pursue her education. Now married to investment manager Hamish Badenoch, she has maintained her candid stance on her childhood experiences and their impact on her worldview. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Nigeria’s collaboration with Germany has significantly improved electricity supply across the country, according to Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s Minister of Power. This development highlights the positive outcomes of bilateral cooperation between the two nations. Key Highlights of the Partnership The partnership centers on the management and upgrade of two transmission substations by German energy company Siemens. Speaking after a meeting between the Presidents of Nigeria and Germany in Abuja, Mr. Adelabu detailed the progress, noting that Siemens has overseen: These initiatives have boosted Nigeria’s transmission grid capacity by an additional 750 megawatts. Addressing Nigeria’s Power Challenges Nigeria, with a population exceeding 200 million, faces chronic electricity shortages. Many households endure less than 10 hours of daily electricity, underscoring the need for urgent solutions. Despite generating less than 7,000 megawatts, the country struggles to transmit the power effectively due to infrastructural limitations. The partnership with Siemens, under the Presidential Power Initiative, aims to address these issues. Siemens is implementing both Brownfield (upgraded existing infrastructure) and Greenfield (new facilities) transmission substations, which are expected to enhance the efficiency of power distribution across the nation. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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The Federal Government has announced a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate and upgrade abandoned buildings and assets in Lagos State. This initiative, aimed at addressing security concerns and reviving dilapidated facilities, was disclosed by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, during a recent facility assessment tour in Lagos. Federal Assets in Disrepair Minister Dangiwa highlighted the poor condition of several Federal Government properties, including issues such as lack of water and electricity. These long-abandoned buildings not only pose security risks but also hinder effective use by government agencies. “The buildings that can be directly upgraded by the federal government will receive funding. For others, we’ll partner with the private sector,” the minister explained. Through this collaboration, private investors will rehabilitate facilities, lease them to tenants, and later return them to government ownership after recovering their investment. Key Facilities Assessed The minister visited several notable locations during the three-day tour, including: These properties, many of which became unused after Nigeria’s capital was relocated from Lagos to Abuja in 1991, are now set for potential rehabilitation under the new initiative. Federal and State Collaboration The minister also met with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to foster collaboration between federal and state governments. Both parties agreed to establish a tripartite committee to address concerns and ensure smooth coordination. Addressing Challenges The Controller of Housing in Lagos, Funmilayo Olayiwola, cited issues such as obsolete structures, lack of operational vehicles, and inadequate power supply as key challenges limiting staff productivity. The assessment team prioritized immediate and phased upgrades to address these issues. Continuing the Mission On Thursday, the Minister plans to visit ongoing Federal Government Housing Estates and Projects in Lagos. He will also engage stakeholders on land administration to further streamline operations and enhance productivity. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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The appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Akin Fakorede to lead the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit has ignited widespread unease. Known for his controversial past, including allegations of police brutality, election rigging, and misconduct during his tenure as commander of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Fakorede’s selection has drawn criticism from activists, political parties, and human rights organizations. A History of Allegations Fakorede’s tenure in Rivers State (2016–2019) was marred by accusations of extrajudicial killings, harassment, and electoral manipulation. Reports from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) further implicated him in these activities, with some panels recommending his dismissal or demotion. Continued Controversy Across States Beyond Rivers State, Fakorede has been accused of land grabbing and using force to settle disputes in Anambra State. Families and activists have lodged multiple petitions against him, citing illegal arrests and threats, including a notable 2022 case involving a 72-year-old woman allegedly targeted over a personal dispute. Public Backlash Civil society and human rights advocates argue that appointing an officer with such a tainted record undermines efforts to reform Nigeria’s police force. The appointment risks further eroding public trust and jeopardizing international partnerships aimed at curbing police misconduct. Recommendations Ignored Despite being repeatedly indicted by panels investigating SARS abuses, Fakorede avoided accountability. This disregard for justice raises questions about the credibility of the IGP Monitoring Unit under his leadership. Public Outcry The controversy has reignited calls for police accountability. Activists insist on revisiting cases involving Fakorede and implementing recommendations to dismiss or prosecute officers implicated in misconduct. Protesters Demand Accountability and Reform in the Nigerian Police Force Protesters carried placards with bold messages such as “Sack Akin Fakorede Now,” “Stop Killings By SARS,” “President Buhari Call SARS To Order,” “End The Killings By SARS,” and “End SARS’ Brutality Now.” Their demands were clear and urgent. Allegations Against SARS in Rivers State The protesters accused the Rivers State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), led by Akin Fakorede, of becoming a tool for political manipulation under the All Progressives Congress (APC). They called for Fakorede’s immediate dismissal and prosecution, citing a video showing him allegedly involved in electoral malpractice. The group also mourned the deaths of three Ogoni youths reportedly killed by SARS operatives while trying to prevent pipeline vandalism. Allegations of Land Grabbing in Anambra State As Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka, Anambra State, Fakorede faced accusations of enabling land grabbing and inciting violent property disputes. A petition submitted by human rights lawyer Comrade Justus Ijeoma to the Police Service Commission detailed troubling incidents, including: In another notable event on November 23, 2023, women in Awka protested Fakorede’s alleged involvement in criminal activities, accusing him and other officers of destabilizing local security efforts. Police officials dismissed the protests, claiming they were orchestrated by land grabbers. Growing International Concerns Fakorede’s recent appointment to lead the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit has alarmed international development partners and funding agencies. Organizations such as the UNDP, British High Commission, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which have invested in police reform initiatives, view this move as a potential setback. Diplomatic sources revealed concerns that Fakorede’s appointment could undermine years of progress in reforming the Nigerian Police Force, which has long struggled with issues of corruption, brutality, and human rights abuses. Oversight bodies, including the Monitoring Unit and the Police Service Commission, are currently investigating multiple complaints against him. Public Outcry and Implications for Police Reform Human rights advocates argue that assigning a figure with a history of alleged abuses to such a critical oversight role damages public trust and jeopardizes reform efforts. Fakorede’s controversial career includes stints in Kaduna, Anambra, and Rivers State, with each tenure marked by allegations of misconduct. As public dissatisfaction grows, the Nigerian Police Force faces immense pressure to address these concerns and demonstrate a genuine commitment to accountability. The coming weeks will reveal whether the authorities will heed these calls for reform or allow the controversies to further erode confidence in law enforcement. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Nigeria has once again been thrown into darkness following another collapse of the national electricity grid on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. This marks the 12th grid failure this year, exacerbating the long-standing issues within the nation’s power sector. The national grid’s official account on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the incident, reporting that the collapse occurred at approximately 2:06 PM. “The major grid setback has occurred, and the restoration is to commence,” the post read. As of 2:00 PM, the Independent System Operator (ISO), a subsidiary of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), reported that no power generation plants connected to the grid were operational. This resulted in nationwide blackouts, with electricity distribution companies across Nigeria’s 36 states experiencing inactive feeders. Jos Electricity Distribution Company (Jos Disco) also confirmed the situation, stating, “The current outage being experienced across our franchise states is due to the loss of power supply from the national grid at about 1:33 PM on Wednesday.” This collapse highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigeria’s electricity sector, which continues to struggle despite privatisation efforts intended to improve its reliability and efficiency. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Elon Musk’s Wealth Skyrockets Past $400 BillionElon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has seen his net worth surpass an astonishing $400 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This milestone cements his position as the wealthiest individual on the planet. The dramatic surge in Musk’s wealth came after SpaceX and its investors agreed to purchase up to $1.25 billion in insider shares, valuing the aerospace giant at approximately $350 billion. This transaction alone added $50 billion to Musk’s fortune, bringing his total wealth to an impressive $440 billion, Bloomberg reported. Tesla’s Role in Musk’s WealthA significant portion of Musk’s net worth is tied to Tesla’s stock performance. Tesla’s share price has soared by about 65% since the recent U.S. presidential election, further boosting Musk’s wealth. Musk’s Political Connections and InfluenceElon Musk’s close association with Donald Trump has also drawn attention. He has donated an eye-catching $270 million to Trump’s campaign and remained a key figure alongside the former president since his election victory. Musk even invited Trump to witness a SpaceX rocket launch in Texas, highlighting their collaboration. Strategic Benefits for Musk’s BusinessesMusk’s proximity to Trump has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding potential advantages for his business interests. Reports suggest Musk may benefit from relaxed regulations for Tesla and the elimination of tax credits on electric vehicles, which could hurt competitors. Additionally, Trump appointed Musk to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency, tasked with implementing billions in federal spending cuts and reducing regulatory burdens—a move that aligns with Musk’s business interests. Musk’s Continued DominanceWith his wealth driven by innovative ventures and strategic moves, Elon Musk’s influence in business and politics continues to grow. His role in shaping industries and policies ensures he remains a dominant force in both the entrepreneurial and political arenas. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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Dr. Emmanuel Ahmadu, a Nigerian mental health advocate, has turned adversity into triumph, earning a distinction from the prestigious London Graduate School in the UK. Known as a symbol of resilience, Ahmadu shared his remarkable story in a recent interview in Lagos. A Journey of Perseverance Overcoming significant challenges, Ahmadu sat for the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) 17 times due to family instability. Despite these hurdles, he has risen to global recognition as a mental health advocate and certified management consultant. Ahmadu was recently inducted as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), the highest grade of membership, during a dual ceremony held in Lagos and the UK on November 26. Honored for Excellence The Institute commended Ahmadu’s exceptional academic and professional achievements, praising his commitment to advancing the highest standards in management consulting. “My certification as a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) enhances my ability to provide expertise in over 50 countries, including the US and UK,” said Ahmadu. Inspiring Global Impact Reflecting on his new accolades, Ahmadu emphasized their significance in his mission to tackle mental health challenges, particularly among Gen Z, teenagers, and adolescents. “This recognition is more than a personal milestone; it’s a step forward in addressing the global mental health crisis. My journey proves that nothing is impossible with God,” he shared via Instagram (@mr.voiceover). A Testament to Resilience Despite attending 16 primary schools and 14 secondary schools, Ahmadu’s persistence led him to earn two honorary doctorates and publish works in mental health journals. Prof. David Iornem, Director-General of IMC Nigeria, hailed Ahmadu as a transformative leader whose expertise will enhance global mental health efforts and consulting practices. Ahmadu’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience and determination can transform even the most daunting challenges into remarkable achievements. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
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ABUJA – The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General YD Ahmed, has urged unified efforts in locating Yahaya Farouk, a corps member reported missing in Ikuru Town, Andoni Local Government Area, Rivers State. During a visit to the community, the NYSC DG appealed to both youth and elders to collaborate with security agencies in the ongoing search. He also inspected the site of the incident and highlighted the collective responsibility of host communities in ensuring the safety and well-being of corps members stationed in their areas. Brigadier General Ahmed reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security measures for all NYSC participants nationwide. He stated: “I am here to seek your assistance in finding the corps member who came for national service from another state. My administration remains dedicated to advocating for the security and welfare of all corps members. Host communities also have a crucial role in safeguarding corps members and providing adequate support.” At a meeting with local leaders, Youth President Etete Jerb Anthony and Ward Secretary Paul Friday shared that the community had already undertaken significant efforts to find Farouk, who was last seen at a Chinese mining company in the area. They affirmed their ongoing commitment to search and rescue operations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. Tags: Nyesom Wike good govern
