In a bold move aimed at intensifying the fight against criminal insurgents, the Zamfara State Government has clarified the recent deployment of vigilante groups from Borno State to reinforce the region’s security efforts against armed banditry. Hon. Iliyasu Buhari Maijega, the Special Adviser on Political Affairs to Governor Dauda Lawal, addressed the media regarding the growing concerns around the decision. He explained that the action was necessitated by the dire need to bolster existing local security structures, given the relentless wave of violence that has plagued parts of the state. “From day one, this government has remained dedicated to restoring lasting peace,” Maijega said while speaking on the rising insecurity in Zamfara. According to him, Governor Lawal has been proactively engaged with top national security officials since assuming office. “Just days into his administration, he met with security chiefs in Abuja. To date, he has visited them six times, all in a determined effort to secure lasting solutions to Zamfara’s security crisis.” Maijega clarified that the inclusion of vigilantes from Borno State does not mean local security operatives are being replaced. Rather, the Borno security volunteers are coming in to support and work alongside the existing Community Protection Guards (CPGs) already deployed across various local government areas. “This effort is not about substitution. It is about collaboration,” he stated. “The state government recognizes that we cannot overcome the insecurity challenges alone.” The adviser urged the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to expedite broader national security support, stressing that the people of Zamfara are not demanding too much—only that their lives and property be protected. He reminded the President of his assurance to end banditry nationwide by December 2025. In addition to security matters, the government is also focusing on political stability. With an upcoming by-election in the Kaura Namoda South Constituency, Maijega criticized certain opposition figures, alleging they are scheming to manipulate the poll through unethical tactics such as vote buying. “Those plotting to compromise the election with money politics will be disgraced,” he warned. “Zamfara people are no longer swayed by empty promises or cash handouts—they demand results.” Maijega expressed confidence in the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) retaining the seat in the by-election. He pointed to Governor Lawal’s achievements, especially in healthcare delivery and infrastructure development, as strong indicators that the government is fulfilling its campaign promises.
In a major development in Nigeria’s business sector, Aliko Dangote, the founder and majority stakeholder of Dangote Cement Plc, has officially stepped down from his position as Chairman of the Board of Directors. This move marks a significant leadership transition in one of Africa’s largest cement producers. The announcement was made public through a press statement released on Friday by the company’s Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina. In the statement, Chiejina disclosed that Dangote’s resignation was a strategic decision aimed at allowing the industrialist to channel more time and energy into the operations of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which is now a core focus of his conglomerate. “Aliko Dangote has retired as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Cement to dedicate more attention to the Dangote Refinery project,” said Chiejina in the official release. As part of the leadership restructuring, the Board of Directors has appointed Emmanuel Ikazoboh, a respected independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman of Dangote Cement Plc. Ikazoboh brings a wealth of experience and independence to the company’s governance structure, and his appointment reflects the board’s ongoing commitment to stability, transparency, and operational excellence. The shift in leadership comes at a pivotal moment when the company is expanding its market dominance and focusing on sustainable industrial growth across Africa. Stakeholders are optimistic that the change will enable Dangote to advance critical infrastructure projects, particularly the oil refining sector, which is projected to be a transformative force in Nigeria’s energy economy. This development also demonstrates a broader trend among leading African conglomerates to redistribute leadership roles for improved focus on strategic ventures.
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In a recent development that may affect residents and businesses across Lagos, Ikeja Electric Plc (IE) has announced an upcoming 25-day power outage in specific areas under its electricity distribution network. This significant disruption will last from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, August 21, 2025, and will occur daily between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. This information was made public through an official notification shared on Ikeja Electric’s verified social media platforms, where the power distribution company detailed the cause and timeframe of the scheduled outage. According to the released statement, the daily blackouts are part of a maintenance operation by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The objective is to perform technical upgrades and system improvements on the Omotosho–Ikeja West 330kV transmission line, a vital component in Nigeria’s electricity grid infrastructure. Reason Behind the Planned Outage Ikeja Electric emphasized that this disruption is necessary to support TCN in its ongoing infrastructure upgrades. The planned maintenance is expected to improve power reliability in the long run. However, during the 25-day period, consumers across the IE network should anticipate intermittent power supply and possible load shedding. “Please be informed that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) will carry out scheduled maintenance on the Omotosho-Ikeja West 330kV transmission line from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, August 21, 2025, between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm daily,” the statement read. “During this period, customers may experience intermittent power supply and load shedding across our network due to the planned TCN outage,” the notice added. Impacted Areas and What Residents Should Expect Although Ikeja Electric did not list specific communities or streets, it is expected that multiple neighborhoods under the Ikeja coverage zone may be affected. Residents are advised to make necessary arrangements ahead of the blackout period to mitigate the inconvenience, especially those who rely heavily on electricity for business, medical, and domestic activities. Public Reaction and Expectations The announcement has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some residents expressing concern over the economic impact of such a long blackout period. Small businesses, especially those in the tech, food, and services sectors, are particularly vulnerable to disruptions in power supply. Stakeholders are urging both Ikeja Electric and TCN to ensure that the maintenance work is carried out promptly and efficiently to minimize the duration of impact on consumers.
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Primate Elijah Ayodele, spiritual head of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has expressed deep concern over the worsening state of the African continent, boldly declaring that neither the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nor the African Union (AU) possess the right frameworks or leadership resolve to tackle the complex problems troubling Africa. In a statement issued through his official media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele strongly criticized the current trajectory of African governance. He highlighted that although the continent faces diverse and pressing challenges, African leaders remain fixed in outdated approaches, which has only worsened the situation and led to deeper stagnation. He warned that, at this rate, a time would come when African nations would rise up in conflict against each other, driven by the systemic failure of leadership across the continent. He prophesied that unless a transformational shift occurs, Africa will remain under the economic and political dominance of Western powers for the next 25 years, effectively acting as a modern-day colony until a truly independent and progressive Africa is birthed. “A great danger looms ahead for the African Union Commission. It will be viewed as corrupt and biased in its decisions,” the prophet warned. According to Primate Ayodele, the absence of unity among African nations, coupled with poor leadership, would further expose Africa to exploitation by global powers. He painted a grim picture of the continent becoming a dumping ground for foreign interests, with no clear path to independence or development unless urgent prayers and actions are undertaken. “Africa will continue to experience internal turmoil. African countries will turn against each other, unity will vanish, and the continent will serve as a platform for Western domination,” he lamented. “Without spiritual intervention and sound leadership, Africa will remain enslaved for the next 25 years until a new leadership model rises to transform the continent.” The cleric didn’t stop there. He also spoke on the resurgence of military coups, noting that the phenomenon is far from over. He believes misinformation will spread across the region, triggering instability and confusion. He emphasized that ECOWAS and the AU would continue to face difficult and controversial issues, including border conflicts, disputes over the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and setbacks in infrastructure development, especially road networks. “Coups are not over in Africa,” he stated. “Misinformation will deepen the continent’s problems. ECOWAS will face major issues like border disputes, challenges in free trade expansion, infrastructure hurdles, and weak road networking systems.” In a prophetic tone, he urged the continent to pray fervently to avert the death of a prominent African leader, which could cause further disunity and chaos. He warned of potential attacks against several African nations, including: Furthermore, the religious leader warned that ECOWAS will likely fail in several critical aspects. He stated that the body’s attempt to bring security and peace to Africa would largely be ineffective and poorly executed, leading to greater instability across the continent. “ECOWAS is likely to make critical errors in decision-making. Their efforts to stabilize Africa will not yield positive results and could hinder the continent’s overall progress,” he said. He forewarned the emergence of new terrorist factions in various African countries that will stretch across regions and cause widespread insecurity. According to him, these groups will rise in: In his concluding remarks, Primate Ayodele stressed the urgent need for a truly united African force that would rise against terrorism and mismanagement. He painted a dire outlook for the African economy, predicting continued instability and exploitation if current conditions persist. “Africa desperately needs a unified force to combat terrorism. Without this, the economy will remain volatile, plagued by mismanagement and foreign manipulation.”
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Elon Musk, the renowned tech mogul and founder of SpaceX, has publicly apologized following a major disruption to Starlink’s satellite internet service, which left thousands of users disconnected globally for over two hours on Thursday night. Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Musk expressed regret over the incident, stating simply, “Sorry,” as he acknowledged the unexpected outage. The issue, which marked one of Starlink’s most widespread international service interruptions to date, was reportedly caused by an internal software malfunction that disrupted high-speed satellite connectivity for tens of thousands of users around the world. In response, Musk gave assurances that the root cause would be identified and rectified to prevent a recurrence. He wrote, “Sorry for the outage. SpaceX will remedy root cause to ensure it doesn’t happen again.” Since its inception, SpaceX has successfully launched over 8,000 Starlink satellites into orbit since 2020, expanding global broadband internet access, especially in underserved regions. In Nigeria, Starlink recently resumed service activations nationwide. This move comes after a temporary halt last year, which lasted from October to November, due to pending regulatory approvals. As of last month, the service has been reactivated for users in Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities across Nigeria. The US-based company noted that demand in Nigeria remains strong, especially in urban areas, following the platform’s return. It’s important to recall that in October 2024, Starlink faced regulatory backlash for increasing subscription prices without prior approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). With over 60,000 Nigerian subscribers at the time, the sudden price hike led to temporary service restrictions.
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In a strategic move aimed at reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to human rights and professional discipline, the Army Headquarters (AHQ), through the Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA), has hosted a crucial sensitization workshop for personnel of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State. Held on Thursday in Jalingo, the event is part of the Army’s broader initiative to promote lawful military engagement and ensure that all troops conduct internal security operations with respect for human dignity and constitutional mandates. Delivering his keynote address, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Major General GU Chibuisi, emphasized that the workshop was timely and essential in preparing soldiers to operate within the evolving dynamics of national security threats. “These operations demand more than tactical expertise — they call for ethical responsibility. Our personnel must fully understand the legal frameworks that guide their actions. Upholding human rights is not optional; it must be central to all our engagements,” Major General Chibuisi stated. He stressed that the objective of the sensitization extends beyond the battlefield. It aims to shape soldiers into disciplined, responsible citizens who reflect integrity and serve as moral role models within the wider society. Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of 6 Brigade and Sector 3 OPWS, also addressed the troops. He reiterated that the training underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering dedication to professionalism and human rights protection. According to him, the unit’s composure and restraint during recent national protests — where zero casualties were recorded — stands as a testament to their maturity and adherence to ethical conduct. “This sensitization isn’t just routine—it’s a powerful reminder of our sworn duty to protect lives and property. I commend the DCMA for initiating this important exercise and urge all troops to take these lessons to heart,” General Uwa said. In his remarks, he also praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, for his continued focus on troop welfare, capacity enhancement, and consistent professional development across all Army units.
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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed an immediate and thorough investigation into a circulating video clip allegedly showing Nigerian soldiers voicing concerns over inadequate food rations. This development was made public through an official statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, on Thursday in Abuja. The controversial footage, which quickly gained attention across social media platforms before making its way to mainstream news channels, displayed a group of troops exhibiting the food items they reportedly received from military logistics. While the validity and broader context of the video remain uncertain, the Army Chief emphasized that the incident would be treated with the highest level of seriousness and professionalism. General Oluyede assured Nigerians that the outcome of the investigation would be disclosed in due course to demonstrate transparency and reinforce public trust in the Nigerian Army’s internal accountability. He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of army personnel, aligning with the “Soldier First” initiative, a framework that places a premium on the dignity, morale, and overall readiness of soldiers and their families. In his remarks, the COAS strongly encouraged military personnel to use formal military channels to report grievances instead of turning to unauthorized platforms. He described such public outbursts as violations of military ethics and discipline, which could compromise operational integrity and public confidence. He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding leadership principles, ethical values, and the welfare of its troops. These priorities are central to its constitutional role and internal operations. “Troops’ welfare is a topmost concern,” General Oluyede stated. “Our ongoing transformation agenda is built on the vision of nurturing a highly motivated and mission-ready force capable of executing its constitutional mandate in collaboration with other security agencies.” He further explained that the recently implemented “Soldier First” Concept is designed to ensure that the needs of troops and their family members are placed at the forefront of all army policies. This includes their physical and psychological well-being, honor, and combat preparedness. The Army leadership, according to him, strongly discourages personnel from airing grievances on unapproved platforms—especially regarding operations and welfare matters—underscoring that doing so contradicts core military values. In conclusion, the Nigerian Army reassured its personnel and the general public that it would continue to operate with utmost professionalism, transparency, and discipline, and that the welfare and morale of Nigerian soldiers remain pivotal to the success of its reforms and military engagements.
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Aitana Bonmati delivered a stunning performance on Wednesday night by scoring a decisive goal in the dying minutes of extra time, helping Spain secure a 1-0 win over Germany in the UEFA Women’s Euro semi-final. Just moments before the match would have gone to a penalty shootout, Bonmati curled a cross-turned-shot that unexpectedly found its way into the back of the net, breaking the deadlock. The tightly contested match had ended goalless after regulation time, with both sides displaying strong defensive tactics. However, in the 23rd minute of extra time, Spain finally found the breakthrough they had been pushing for. With this victory, Spain has now advanced to face England in Sunday’s final, setting the stage for an intense rematch of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final. The upcoming match marks a significant milestone for the Spanish women’s team, as it will be their first-ever appearance in a UEFA Women’s Euro final. Despite being the reigning World Cup champions, this is uncharted territory for La Roja on the European stage. England, on the other hand, heads into the final as the defending champions of the Euros. The Three Lionesses will be eager to retain their crown and avenge the narrow 1-0 defeat they suffered against Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, which took place in Sydney, Australia.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD ….Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward: But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea (Exodus 14:15-16). Some Christians experience a certain kind of frustration in their lives because they fail to act on the Word. They pray and try to “persuade” God to do what they are to do. For example, they want Him to change a situation He already gave us power and authority to change. Take for example the case of Moses and the children of Israel as they were trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s advancing army. They cried out in fear. But Moses reassured them of God’s salvation and began to cry out to God to do something. However, God urgently interrupted Moses with the words we read in our opening scripture above. God said to Moses, “You do something; stretch forth your hand and divide the sea.” In obedience, Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, spoke words, and the Red Sea parted. God’s power was activated the moment Moses acted on His instruction and spoke in faith. Until Moses did something, the miracle didn’t happen. This teaches us that unless you take action to change your circumstances, they may remain unchanged. So, don’t seek to persuade God to act when you’re the one to exercise authority and take action according to His Word. God has already done His part by giving you His Word and the liberty to act on it. For example, He said in 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God, Which things also we speak…” Notice the principle: You have to speak the things that have been freely given to you by God. If you don’t say it, it’ll not work. Your faith-filled words, spoken in alignment with the Word, activate His power in your life. So, speak God’s Word over your life and see His power manifest in your behalf. The blessings and results are for those who act on the Word, the doers of the Word. James 1:22, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” CONFESSIONI’m a doer of the Word, and my faith-filled words activate the power of God in my life. As I act on the Word, I experience victory, transformation, and the fullness of God’s blessings today. Hallelujah! FURTHER STUDYMark 11:23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Luke 5:4-6Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. 5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. Romans 10:8But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, [even] in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 27:27-44 & Psalms 23-25 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 10:10-24 & Joshua 19 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Christ is made unto me wisdom, and in Him, I have access to the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I possess limitless wisdom, understanding, and knowledge of witty inventions. I am prudent, skilled, and proficient in every area of my life. I devise the best solutions to any challenge, and I am full of sound wisdom, counsel, and discretion. Christ is my wisdom, and with Him, there is nothing beyond my ability to handle. I am endowed with sound knowledge and understanding. I am strong, mighty, and powerful. My words are righteous and princely, and my lips speak truth always. I have an understanding heart, and my words are always in alignment with God’s will. Wisdom has been given to me by God, and I lack nothing. I know that nothing is beyond me, and I approach every situation with a wise and discerning heart. I think the right thoughts, speak the right words, and receive the results of God’s Word in my life. I exercise authority over my body, which is healthy and sound from the crown of my head to the soles of my feet. My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and no sickness or disease can dwell in it. I am empowered to live in divine health, and I declare that I am whole and well. I am sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency, and His grace is enough for me in all things. Grace, the lifting power of God, attracts the right people, materials, and resources into my life. I am positioned for success and victory. I think thoughts of peace, joy, prosperity, and good health, knowing that God’s grace ensures that I have all that I need. I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, far above all principality, power, and dominion. I am chosen, royal, and peculiar. I experience the supernatural power of God in my life daily. I reign in righteousness, and no weapon formed against me shall prosper. I dwell in God’s peace, with my mind focused on His Word, and I am kept in perfect peace continually. God has given me the Spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. I experience His power working mightily in me and make full proof of it every day. I reign, rule, and dominate
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The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has sounded an alarm over the escalating food crisis severely impacting northeast Nigeria, stating that over 3.7 million individuals in the conflict-ridden areas are currently battling acute food shortages. In a press release shared on Monday in Abuja, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Aliyu Dawobe, the ICRC spokesperson, disclosed this grave situation. He emphasized that a substantial portion of those struggling with hunger were formerly self-sufficient farmers who have lost access to their farmlands due to the prolonged insurgency and unrest ravaging the region. The statement shed light on how the persistent conflict has displaced countless families, obstructed access to fertile lands, and shattered established food supply systems. This has rendered many communities increasingly susceptible to starvation and malnutrition. As the annual lean season progresses — a period characterized by depleted household food stocks before the next harvest — families are coming under increasing strain. According to Diana Japaridze, Head of the ICRC’s sub-delegation in Maiduguri, this season is particularly challenging. “This is the time when families need to purchase food, but countless households affected by the conflict simply can’t afford it. They are compelled to drastically cut down their daily food consumption,” Japaridze noted. She further warned that this intensifying food scarcity is driving up malnutrition rates, particularly affecting children under the age of five, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. To mitigate this crisis, the ICRC is actively supporting malnutrition stabilization centers and conducting community education programs designed to equip families with the necessary knowledge to care for vulnerable children at risk of malnutrition. Moreover, to address the underlying causes of persistent food insecurity, the ICRC has launched a comprehensive agricultural support initiative aimed at bolstering resilience and promoting local food production. This program is designed to encompass both the rainy and dry farming seasons. “Our initiative backs both rainy and dry season cultivation, targeting thousands of farming households. This year alone, we have distributed climate-adapted seeds and farming tools to over 21,000 households to facilitate easier planting and increase productivity,” Japaridze stated. Beneficiaries have received an assortment of staple and vegetable seeds such as rice, maize, tomato, and okra to not only enhance the diversity of meals but also to improve their nutritional content. In addition to material support, the ICRC is providing comprehensive training in sustainable agricultural practices to ensure that farmers can continue producing food independently, even beyond the period of direct assistance from the Red Cross. Japaridze also highlighted a systemic intervention made in collaboration with the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC). Together, they recently restored a critical water source essential for maintaining the seed testing and greenhouse facilities managed by NASC, which is vital for sustaining seed quality in Nigeria. Despite these robust interventions, Japaridze acknowledged that the lean season remains a formidable challenge, leaving many farming families still struggling to secure adequate food supplies
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The Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, alongside Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has praised the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for its significant contributions to disaster relief and humanitarian services throughout Nigeria. This recognition was made public on Monday in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, during a courtesy engagement led by the North-East Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Yakubu Lawal. Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Brigade Commander, delivered the commendation, appreciating NEMA’s consistent dedication to alleviating the hardships caused by emergencies across the nation. Brigadier General Uwa highlighted that the 6 Brigade is fully committed to providing unflinching support to NEMA in any future emergency or disaster response endeavors. According to him, “NEMA’s efforts in reducing the burdens of disaster impacts are truly praiseworthy. The 6 Brigade stands ready and willing to collaborate with your agency whenever the situation demands our support.” In his reaction, NEMA’s Zonal Coordinator, Yakubu Lawal, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army for its ongoing collaboration with the agency. He specifically mentioned the military’s timely intervention during the severe flood crisis in Borno State in 2024, which helped in saving lives and reducing damage. Lawal further sounded an alert regarding impending flood threats projected for parts of Taraba and Adamawa States, attributing it to anticipated heavy rainfall. He emphasized that proactive cooperation between security forces and disaster management agencies is essential to curbing the potential risks associated with the forecasts. Adding to the conversation, another NEMA representative, Yakubu Suleiman, praised the 6 Brigade for its dependable alliance with civil authorities. Suleiman stressed that such military-civil partnerships are crucial in bolstering disaster preparedness and response capacities in Taraba State. This sustained collaboration between the Nigerian Army and NEMA not only enhances emergency response efficiency but also underscores the importance of joint efforts in safeguarding lives and properties amid recurring natural disasters in the region. RetryTools
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ABUJA — Across Nigeria, retired police officers launched coordinated protests yesterday to express deep frustration over poor pension benefits and neglect of their welfare. The demonstration wasn’t limited to Abuja; it simultaneously occurred in states including Edo, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, and Cross River, among others, signaling a national outcry against systemic pension failures. Abuja Protest: Heavy Rain Couldn’t Deter Aggrieved Retirees In the nation’s capital, Abuja, despite persistent rainfall, the retired police officers gathered en masse at the entrance of the National Assembly. Their protest coincided with that of the #RevolutionNow movement, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, further amplifying calls for social justice and reform. Central to the retirees’ grievances was their demand for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to be withdrawn from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they labelled as unfair and exploitative. Responding swiftly, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, clarified that he was not opposed to the police exiting the CPS, affirming that concerns over inadequate retirement benefits affected even active officers. Retirees Decry Meagre Pension Payments At the protest venue, retirees voiced bitter frustrations. They sang solidarity songs and held placards, denouncing the N14,000 to N22,000 monthly pensions, which many ex-officers currently receive — an amount deemed grossly insufficient in today’s harsh economic climate. Manir Lawal, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police, strongly condemned the pension scheme, declaring it unjust. “We demand to be removed from the CPS. At 67, I and many others in our 60s and 70s have served this country diligently. Yet, this pension system has left us impoverished,” he lamented. Other protestors shared similar stories: “They owe me nine months of pension. I get just N14,000 monthly. Others get as low as N10,000.” A newly retired officer expressed his dismay at being offered only N3.6 million gratuity after over 15 years of service, contrasting the more generous gratuities received by counterparts in sister security agencies — sometimes up to N30 million. Protesters’ Firm Stance Undeterred by the elements, the retirees vowed to remain in the rain until the National Assembly leadership addressed their plight. Omoyele Sowore and fellow activists complemented the retirees’ efforts by leading a march to the Force Headquarters and the National Assembly, demanding a living wage and proper pensions for all police personnel. Placards bore bold demands such as: Nationwide Echo of Frustration Elsewhere, protests echoed the same frustrations: IGP Meets Retired Officers, Reassures of Ongoing Efforts At the Force Headquarters in Abuja, IGP Egbetokun empathized with the retirees, acknowledging the severity of their struggles. “We share your concerns. We too will one day retire, and it’s imperative that your welfare is secured,” he stated. He revealed his recent meeting with National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, where the welfare of retired police officers was extensively discussed. While refraining from divulging sensitive details to the press, the IGP assured that tangible steps were being taken to enhance police pension benefits. “I am not against the police exiting CPS. If it resolves the problem, I support it. However, if the exit is infeasible, alternative solutions must be sought,” he emphasized. He reminded the retirees that efforts to exit CPS had spanned over a decade, with all past Inspectors-General of Police attempting — unsuccessfully — to achieve this. “Exiting CPS is beyond the power of any IGP. Regardless, even within CPS, we can seek reforms that ensure retirees live comfortably post-service,” he added. He also cautioned against external agitators: “Don’t let enemies of the police manipulate you. Stay alert to those who pretend to support your cause but might have hidden agendas.” Conclusion The mass protests by retired police officers across Nigeria have reignited national conversations about police pensions, welfare, and post-service dignity. While the Inspector-General of Police has shown support, the ball remains in the Federal Government’s court to implement substantial reforms that address these longstanding grievances.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4). Your life is your responsibility, and through the Word of God, you have the power to create the circumstances of your life. As a child, your parents were responsible for the situations surrounding your life. For instance, when Jesus was born, He was placed in a manger, not because He chose to be, but because that was where His parents put Him. On another occasion, the angel didn’t instruct Jesus but spoke to Joseph, saying, “…take the young child and his mother and flee into Egypt…” (Matthew 2:13). Jesus didn’t make that decision; He was just carried along as a baby. Even as He grew, He remained subject to Joseph and His mother Mary. However, when He came of age, He began making His own decisions, just like Moses who, when he came to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter (Hebrews 11:24). In the same way, you must come to the point where you decide and determine the circumstances of your life. Choose to live in victory no matter what. Decide you’re going to be a success at every level of your life and in everything you do because that’s the life you’ve been given in Christ. Don’t allow your environment dictate how you live. You’re not a victim of the economy or economics of this world; you’re the seed of Abraham, a victor always. 2 Corinthians 2:14 says, “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.” We read in our opening verse, “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world….” You’re born of God and have overcome the world. You’re victorious in Christ. Therefore, choose to live victoriously every day. Live above the systems of this world. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the power of your Word, and your Spirit that enables me to live victoriously every day above the systems of this world. I’m in charge and in control of my life and circumstances; I live by faith and create my own world of success and prosperity in line with your perfect will, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 8:35-39Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord, 2 Corinthians 2:14 MSGAnd I got it, thank God! In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. John 16:33These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 27:1-26 & Psalms 21-22 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 10:1-9 & Joshua 18 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am a life-giving spirit and everything I touch or connect to receives life. My body is God’s house; the Holy Spirit perambulates every fiber of my being and every cell of my blood. I’m healthy and strong! Only the life and nature of Christ – His beauty and glory – are manifested in my physical body because He perambulates in me. I reign as a king in this life, changing situations and circumstances in my favour. I make decrees and they’re established, for the Word of God on my lips is God talking! I’ll never be discouraged or subject to the crippling principles of this world, because I reign and rule by the Word. Christ has brought perfection and excellence into my life. I am prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I’m continually filled with the Spirit of God. I have the life and nature of God in me; therefore, I’m an overcomer and more than a conqueror. I live in Christ, where divinity reigns. I reign in prosperity with peace, health, and an abundance of wealth. I enjoy the supernatural life that God has given me. I am in union with the One who commands light to shine out of darkness. Like my heavenly Father, I speak forth life and my words are established over my health, finances, and everything that concerns me. I affirm that my gates are opened continually for wealth of the gentile to flow in. Everything I get involved in, works. In Christ, I have received the life of glory, honor, and excellence; a life where there’s no form of death, sickness, disease, or infirmity. My life is excellent and full of glory; I walk in absolute mastery, victory, safety, wellness, wholeness, and divine health because I’m in Christ and Christ is my life! His wisdom, righteousness, peace, glory, and joy are expressed through me, and my faith in the Word is the victory that overcomes the world. Today, I am living the life of victory and dominion that Jesus purchased for me through His vicarious death, burial, and resurrection. God’s Word is truth and everything He said about my health and my life is reality. My faith in the Word and its integrity is unyielding, and the Word produces the health, strength, vitality, and all the blessings and provisions that it talks about in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak
