Nigeria’s new service chiefs, recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have outlined strategic measures to address the nation’s ongoing security challenges. During their confirmation session before the Senate in Abuja, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms and adequate funding across the country’s security architecture. Lt. General Oluyede highlighted that one of the fundamental steps toward restoring national stability is empowering the Nigeria Police Force with proper funding and equipment. According to him, the police should be strengthened to handle internal security operations, allowing the military to focus on its constitutional responsibilities, particularly the defense of the nation from external aggression. He pointed out that the military is overstretched due to multiple internal deployments, noting that a more robust police system would ease the burden on soldiers who are currently engaged in domestic security matters. “If the Police Force is properly equipped and motivated, they can take over internal operations, while the armed forces focus solely on their constitutional mandate,” he stated. The new CDS further stressed the importance of adequate financial support for the Nigerian Armed Forces, explaining that without sufficient funding, the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency cannot be effectively sustained. He noted that the military requires both modern equipment and continuous logistical support to strengthen its capabilities in tackling banditry, insurgency, and terrorism. Lt. General Oluyede also urged the Federal Government to prioritize local production of military hardware to ensure long-term self-reliance. He observed that Nigeria’s dependence on imported military equipment is not sustainable, especially given the challenges of delayed procurement and high costs. Encouraging indigenous production, he said, would not only reduce dependency on foreign countries but also boost the local defense industry and create employment opportunities. He added that promoting homegrown technological innovations in defense manufacturing will play a vital role in enhancing the military’s efficiency. “Relying on local production will enable faster access to resources during emergencies and foster national pride in homegrown military capabilities,” he said. Security experts also agree that strengthening synergy among the various security agencies—including the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Nigerian Police Force (NPF)—is crucial in combating insecurity. Collaboration, intelligence sharing, and unified operations have been identified as critical to achieving peace and stability nationwide. As the new service chiefs assume office, Nigerians are optimistic that the renewed approach and calls for security sector reform will yield tangible results. Many believe that the combination of improved funding, equipment modernization, and a shift toward domestic production could mark the beginning of a sustainable and proactive defense strategy for Nigeria.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially announced the renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, in honor of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who recently marked his 90th birthday. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this major development during a press briefing at the State House on Monday. The announcement followed a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu. According to the minister, the renaming highlights the government’s recognition of General Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development during his tenure as Head of State. He further revealed that the proposal for the name change will be forwarded to the National Assembly for formal approval. This gesture reflects the administration’s efforts to honor national leaders and preserve their legacies. 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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Former Vice-President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he describes as a reckless borrowing spree, pushing Nigeria into a severe debt crisis. Atiku also accused the National Assembly leadership of enabling the borrowing, calling them accomplices to the economic mismanagement. Nigeria’s Alarming Debt Profile Atiku’s remarks come in response to a recent World Bank report, which ranks Nigeria as the third-largest debtor to the International Development Association (IDA). He expressed deep concern about this development, stating: “The report showing Nigeria as the third most indebted country to the IDA is extremely concerning.” The former vice-president highlighted the administration’s proposal to borrow ₦1.7 trillion via Euro Bonds to address the 2024 budget deficit, a move he described as reckless and ill-planned. Exchange Rate Discrepancy and Fiscal Irresponsibility Atiku also pointed out the flawed nature of the proposed loans, particularly the exchange rate assumptions. “This loan proposal is benchmarked at ₦800 to $1, whereas the Central Bank’s exchange rate exceeds ₦1,600 to $1. Such discrepancies raise serious questions about transparency and fiscal responsibility,” Atiku noted. He further condemned the debt accumulation for its impact on ordinary Nigerians, stating: “These loans are crushing Nigerians with unbearable economic pressure, especially when they are neither well-negotiated nor utilized for genuine development purposes.” National Assembly’s Role in the Debt Crisis Atiku didn’t spare the National Assembly, accusing them of complicity in enabling the government’s borrowing frenzy. “The National Assembly has once again become an accomplice, allowing Nigeria to sink further into debt.” He questioned why the administration continues to borrow despite claims of record revenue collection by agencies like the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and Nigerian Customs. Allegations of Corruption and Mismanagement Atiku alleged that the excessive borrowing is fueled by corruption rather than infrastructure development or economic needs. Referring to a recent BudgIt report, he criticized the 2024 budget, calling it “a mess” due to the excessive pork-barrel spending included. “The appetite for these massive loans is driven by corruption rather than genuine national interest,” he asserted. A Call for Fiscal Responsibility Reflecting on past efforts to reduce Nigeria’s foreign debt, Atiku expressed personal disappointment: “Just years after President Obasanjo’s administration freed Nigeria from foreign indebtedness, we are back at the top of the debt trap.” In conclusion, he urged caution and fiscal discipline: “It’s time for this administration to apply more caution and arithmetic to its loan frenzy. Recklessness will only worsen the plight of Nigerians.” Atiku’s criticism underscores the growing concerns over Nigeria’s economic trajectory under President Tinubu’s administration, with calls for greater accountability and transparency in managing public finances. READ ALSO:
