Offokaja Foundation Successfully Wraps Up ₦1 Million Online Cash Transfer Campaign for Christmas 2024 Lagos, Nigeria – The Prince and Princess Charles Offokaja Foundation, a humanitarian non-governmental organization (NGO), has officially concluded its ₦1 million online-driven cash transfer campaign aimed at providing financial relief to the less privileged during the 2024 Christmas season. The campaign, held from December 7 to December 26, 2024, was conducted via the foundation’s official X account (@offokajafdn), formerly Twitter. The initiative was designed to support financially struggling individuals during the festive season, focusing on making a positive impact on communities across Nigeria. Nationwide Participation and Engagement Participants from various regions of Nigeria actively engaged with the campaign, submitting requests and, when necessary, providing additional verification details through direct messages for eligibility confirmation. The cash transfers were publicly announced in separate posts on the foundation’s X handle, with transaction alerts shared (sensitive information redacted). Beneficiaries expressed immense gratitude upon receiving the financial aid during this critical period. Statement from Prince Charles Offokaja “Our aim with this campaign was to provide meaningful financial assistance to those in need during the Christmas season, reaching both urban and rural communities,” stated Prince Charles Offokaja, the foundation’s Director General. “We are proud to have positively impacted lives by providing timely financial support directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts.” Financial Support Impact Beneficiaries received amounts ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦50,000, depending on their demonstrated needs and supporting evidence. The financial assistance helped recipients cover various essential expenses, including: Commitment to Economic Empowerment Prince Offokaja emphasized the foundation’s ongoing dedication to promoting economic empowerment through humanitarian initiatives. He highlighted the importance of NGOs collaborating with governments to provide direct financial relief and called for donations to expand future outreach. “This campaign reflects our continued commitment to promoting economic rights. Humanitarian organizations must collaborate with governments for more impactful interventions. We invite donations to further our reach and help more people in need.” A Safer Approach to Humanitarian Aid Reflecting on recent offline humanitarian outreach stampedes, the foundation recommended online cash transfer campaigns as a safer alternative for reaching beneficiaries while minimizing crowd risks. “We extend our condolences to the families affected by recent stampede tragedies during physical outreach events. We encourage philanthropists and NGOs to explore online cash transfer and digital verification methods as safer options for humanitarian aid distribution.” How to Support the Foundation The Offokaja Foundation remains committed to launching future cash transfer initiatives to support vulnerable communities across Nigeria and beyond. Supporters are encouraged to donate and help expand the foundation’s impact. For more information or to make a donation in NGN, visit: offokajafoundation.org/donate-naira Contact Information: Prince and Princess Charles Offokaja Foundation (Nigeria)Igwe Offokaja Palace, Akwukwu, Anambra State, Nigeria? Phone: 08180409392? Email: [email protected]? Website: offokajafoundation.org READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Discover how NDLEA achieved 18,500 arrests and seized 2.6 million kg of drugs in 2024, with support from the US government enhancing Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts. NDLEA’s Operational Successes in 2024 Highlight Effective Anti-Drug Efforts The Chairman of Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa (retd.), has reaffirmed that the agency’s ongoing success in tackling drug supply and demand issues justifies the continued support it receives from the United States government and other global partners. Marwa made these remarks during the commissioning of a central exhibit office donated by the US government to the NDLEA in Lagos. The facility was officially handed over by the US Consulate General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, alongside other senior American officials. Expressing gratitude to the US for being a dependable ally in Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign, Marwa emphasized how the collaboration had significantly boosted the agency’s operational efficiency. He highlighted: “This donation underscores the importance of secure evidence management, which is vital for successful drug crime prosecutions. Beyond enhancing our operational framework, it also sets a higher standard for accountability and transparency in drug law enforcement.” Impressive Anti-Drug Achievements in 2024 Marwa disclosed that the NDLEA had made remarkable strides in 2024, with: He noted that these results reflected the agency’s balanced approach to both drug supply reduction and demand reduction efforts. Ongoing Challenges and Need for Global Support Despite these accomplishments, Marwa acknowledged that the fight against drug trafficking remains complex and evolving, necessitating continued international collaboration and innovation. He called on the US government and other partners to sustain their support to help Nigeria address the dynamic challenges posed by illicit drugs. US Government’s Endorsement and Commitment US Acting Consul General Ms. Jo Ellen Georg emphasized the shared commitment between the US and Nigeria in combating drug trafficking and crime across West Africa. She commended Marwa for maximizing the benefits of the partnership, stating that their joint efforts had yielded significant progress. She added that the new exhibit facility would offer a secure space for NDLEA officers to process arrestees, conduct investigations, and facilitate post-arrest interviews, further strengthening Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts. This continued cooperation underscores the global importance of tackling drug-related crimes, ensuring safer communities both in Nigeria and globally. 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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Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has officially signed the 2025 budget appropriation bill, valued at N582.4 billion, into law. The signing ceremony took place on Monday at the Glass House in Lokoja’s Government House. According to Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, this development marks a significant step toward implementing the state’s financial plan for 2025. Key Highlights of the 2025 Budget: Legislative Support During the signing ceremony, Aliyu Umar, Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, presented the appropriation bill to the governor. He urged the governor to ensure equitable distribution of the budget’s implementation across all state constituencies for balanced development. Gov. Ododo’s action reflects his dedication to shaping Kogi’s financial future, with a vision to positively impact the economy and improve residents’ lives. 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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Nigeria needs a minimum of $50 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) to curb inflation to 5% by 2025, according to Ayo Teriba, a renowned economist and CEO of Economic Associates, Lagos. In an interview on Arise TV, Teriba emphasized that increasing the nation’s net reserves would be essential for stabilizing the economy and moderating macroeconomic conditions. This statement comes amid President Bola Tinubu’s goal of reducing inflation to 15% by 2025, a target that some economists believe may be difficult to achieve due to rising food and fuel prices. Teriba explained that with sufficient foreign capital inflows and expanded reserves, Nigeria could stabilize its exchange rate and drastically reduce inflation, which hit a 28-year high of 34.6% in November 2024. He stressed that substantial reforms are crucial to attract FDI that could transform Nigeria’s economy, which is currently struggling with various challenges. Teriba pointed to Argentina’s success in stabilizing inflation as an example of what’s possible with the right policies. To achieve this, Teriba proposed that the government focus on implementing tax and finance reforms alongside an investment act aimed at attracting $50 billion in FDI within the next year. This would help stabilize the exchange rate and push inflation to single-digit levels. In the third quarter of 2024, FDI into Nigeria increased by 248%, reaching $103.82 million, but this figure remains insufficient to stimulate the growth needed for a major economic turnaround. FDI had hit a record low in the second quarter of 2024, standing at just $29.8 million. Despite these challenges, Teriba argued that current economic policies, particularly those focused on debt servicing, are hindering the government’s ability to achieve its inflation goals. He criticized the practice of borrowing to pay off existing debt, noting that it doesn’t address Nigeria’s fundamental economic issues. “The interest rates offered to Nigeria by international creditors are among the highest in the world, primarily because of the country’s low credit rating. This makes borrowing an inefficient and unsustainable strategy,” Teriba said. He also urged a shift away from borrowing and recommended a move towards equity-based financing. Many countries with similar economies to Nigeria’s are able to borrow at significantly lower rates due to issuing higher-grade debt instruments. Teriba pointed out that while Nigeria has pledged to reduce borrowing, it continues to rely on loans, which is not an effective solution to its fiscal challenges. He called for a shift towards more strategic borrowing, emphasizing that debt instruments’ quality is crucial to lowering borrowing costs. “Many countries with economies comparable to ours borrow more than we do, but at a third of our rates. We should prioritize equity over debt to stabilize our finances,” he advised. Teriba concluded by urging the government to focus on structural reforms and creating incentives that would attract foreign capital. Without these changes, he warned, inflation would remain a persistent issue, undermining economic stability. “If we continue with high-interest borrowing and poor credit management, we’ll miss the opportunity to stabilize our economy. However, with bold reforms and attracting $50 billion in FDI, Nigeria could enter a new era of growth and stability,” he said. 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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ECOWAS refutes allegations of terrorism sponsorship involving Nigeria, highlighting the nation’s dedication to peacekeeping and regional stability. ECOWAS Rejects Terrorism Sponsorship Allegations Against Nigeria The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has strongly dismissed claims suggesting that Nigeria and its member states are involved in sponsoring terrorism. The regional bloc reiterated its unwavering support for Nigeria’s peacekeeping efforts, condemning the allegations as baseless and unfounded. In a statement released Thursday and shared on its official X account (formerly Twitter), ECOWAS expressed its concerns over the circulating accusations but did not specify the source or nature of the claims. ECOWAS Stands with Nigeria “The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over the allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states. The Commission firmly rejects claims that these nations are sponsoring terrorism,” the statement read. ECOWAS praised Nigeria for its leadership and contributions to regional stability, particularly its active role in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). The task force has made significant progress in combating terrorism and fostering peace across West Africa. Describing Nigeria as a “generous and magnanimous country,” ECOWAS acknowledged the nation’s longstanding commitment to peace and security, not only within West Africa but also across the African continent. Call for Evidence-Based Dialogue The regional body urged all member states to prioritize constructive dialogue and avoid making accusations without credible evidence. Such unsubstantiated claims, it argued, could undermine collective efforts toward regional stability. Nigeria’s Renewed Commitment to ECOWAS In a related development, Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, highlighted Nigeria’s renewed commitment to the bloc during the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja. Dr. Touray revealed that the Federal Government of Nigeria had cleared its outstanding community levy to ECOWAS, amounting to ₦85 billion and $54 million, covering July 2023 to July 2024. This marked the first time in 19 years that Nigeria had fully paid its community levy, a milestone reflecting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and Nigeria’s dedication to regional integration. A Step Toward Strengthened Regional Unity This financial milestone underscores Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its role within ECOWAS and enhance regional collaboration. By fulfilling its financial obligations, Nigeria has set a positive example for other member states, reinforcing its commitment to fostering economic growth and stability in West Africa. 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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Nigeria Decries Tragic Attack on German Christmas Market The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the recent attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, which left five people dead and over 200 injured. The incident occurred on Friday, December 20, when a man drove into the bustling market packed with holiday shoppers. In a statement released on Saturday, December 21, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the acting spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed heartfelt condolences to Germany’s government and people. “The Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to express her sincere condolences to the Government and the People of the Federal Republic of Germany following the car attack on a crowded Christmas market on Friday, 20th December 2024, in Magdeburg, Germany,” Ebienfa stated. He further lamented the loss of lives and the high number of injuries, emphasizing the Nigerian government’s solidarity with Germany during this challenging time. “Our thoughts are with the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany and the families of all those impacted by this dreadful action,” Ebienfa added. The attack, which has shocked the global community, underscores the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation to ensure the safety of public spaces. 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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Nigeria Achieves 100% ECOWAS Payment After 19 Years For the first time in nearly two decades, Nigeria has fully paid its financial contributions to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The payment, which totals ₦84 billion and $54 million, covers Nigeria’s community levy for 2023 and extends through July 2024. The announcement was made by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, during the 66th Ordinary Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. The summit took place at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Sunday, December 13, 2024. Dr. Touray hailed this achievement as a historic milestone, describing it as a significant step in Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration and development. “For the first time in 19 years, Nigeria has paid 100 percent of its community levy, covering 2023 and extending to July 2024. The total payment amounts to ₦84 billion and $54 million. This underscores the leadership and dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government, and the people of Nigeria to the ECOWAS community,” Dr. Touray remarked. Leadership Behind the Payment The successful payment was credited to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His administration prioritized fulfilling Nigeria’s financial obligations to ECOWAS, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the regional body. Dr. Touray also emphasized that this act reflects confidence in ECOWAS’s vision and the ongoing reforms initiated under his leadership as ECOWAS Commission President since 2022. “This payment is a mark of confidence in the ECOWAS that I have been privileged to lead since 2022. My colleagues and I are deeply grateful for Nigeria’s steadfast support,” Dr. Touray added. Nigeria’s Role in ECOWAS As the largest economy in West Africa and a founding member of ECOWAS, Nigeria has always played a pivotal role in promoting economic integration, political stability, and regional security. By fulfilling its financial obligations, Nigeria reaffirms its leadership position within the regional bloc and sets a commendable example for other member states. This milestone highlights Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening regional collaboration and advancing the shared objectives of ECOWAS, ensuring long-term benefits for all member countries. 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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Kemi Badenoch, a prominent figure in the UK’s Conservative Party, has opened up about her cultural identity, stressing a deeper connection to her Yoruba roots while distancing herself from Nigeria as a nation. Speaking in an interview with The Spectator, Badenoch explained that her identification aligns more with the Yoruba ethnic group than with the broader Nigerian identity. “People often label me as Nigerian, but I feel a stronger connection to my Yoruba ethnicity,” she stated. She went on to express her detachment from parts of Nigeria, specifically the northern regions, which she associated with extremism and Boko Haram. “I share no connection with northern Nigeria, where Boko Haram and Islamic extremism thrive,” she remarked. Reflecting on her Yoruba surname, Badenoch shared how its meaning shaped her mission in life. “Someone told me as a child that my surname represented warriors who protected the crown. That resonates deeply with my purpose today,” she said. Badenoch also reaffirmed her unwavering loyalty to the UK, stating, “I see myself as a protector of this country, and I would give my life to defend it because I understand the dangers beyond its borders.” Her comments have ignited significant debate, with critics accusing her of dismissing Nigeria’s national identity. Others see her stance as a personal expression of cultural pride and self-definition. 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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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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The House of Representatives’ Committee on Defence has urged the Nigerian government to allocate more funding to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA). Committee Chair Babajimi Benson emphasized the critical role DIA plays in the country’s security framework during an oversight visit to its headquarters in Abuja. He explained that DIA, which handles both domestic and international intelligence, is central to tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges. Benson pointed out that there are three intelligence agencies in Nigeria: the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and DIA. While DSS focuses solely on domestic security and NIA handles foreign intelligence, DIA combines both functions, making it a unique and vital component of Nigeria’s security apparatus. Despite its crucial role, Benson noted that DIA’s budget is significantly lower than those of DSS and NIA. He called for a substantial increase in funding to ensure that DIA receives adequate resources to continue its critical work. Benson also highlighted the improvements in national security, attributing much of the progress to the effective operations of DIA. The committee plans to recommend this funding increase to the president, urging him to recognize DIA as an essential part of Nigeria’s security strategy. 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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The Joint Security Task Force (JTF) in Nigeria’s southeast region has announced the arrest of two suspected members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the seizure of various weapons during a series of coordinated raids across the region. Key Raids and Operations Imo State – Uhuala-Aku, Okigwe LGAOn December 5, JTF operatives, acting on credible intelligence, raided a camp in Uhuala-Aku, Okigwe LGA, Imo State. Jonah Unuakhalu, the JTF spokesperson, stated that the task force destroyed 26 makeshift accommodations at the site. Upon arrival, the JTF engaged with ESN members, who fled into nearby forests due to the troops’ superior firepower. Recovered items included: Arrests in Ebonyi State – Okposi CommunityThe JTF apprehended two suspects in the Okposi community of Ebonyi State. Seized items included: Enugu State – Agu Orba Ekwegbe, Nsukka LGA In another operation, troops from Sector 1, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), raided an alleged ESN camp in Agu Orba Ekwegbe, Nsukka LGA, Enugu State.Recovered items included: The camp was subsequently destroyed to prevent its reuse. JTF’s Commitment to Security The JTF reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks in the southeast, ensuring peace and stability in the region. 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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The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has formally sought South Africa’s support to secure full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. This appeal was made during the ministerial session of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town. A Call for Strategic Partnerships Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to global leadership, requesting South Africa’s backing during its G20 presidency. She emphasized the significance of BRICS, a bloc representing 37% of global GDP, and its potential to drive Africa’s economic and geopolitical relevance. Additionally, Ojukwu stressed the importance of resolving the Sudan crisis, aligning with Tinubu’s role in the African Union’s mediation committee. “With South Africa’s support, we can accelerate peace efforts in Sudan, paving the way for regional stability and progress,” she stated. Strengthening Bilateral Relations The session also saw discussions on expanding cooperation in areas such as: South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, affirmed his nation’s commitment to deepening ties. He pledged that South Africa’s G20 presidency would amplify Africa’s voice, emphasizing Nigeria’s vital role in shaping the continent’s agenda. Historical Ties and Future Collaboration The meeting marked the 25th anniversary of the BNC, celebrating the enduring relationship between Africa’s largest economies. Lamola acknowledged Nigeria’s pivotal role in supporting South Africa during its anti-apartheid struggle. He also urged both nations to unlock the full potential of their collaboration by identifying high-impact, bankable projects in sectors like infrastructure and agriculture. Migration and Global Advocacy A Memorandum of Understanding on Consular and Migration Matters was exchanged, aiming to streamline visa processes, enhance migration policies, and ensure humane treatment of deportees. Looking ahead, both countries agreed on the need to reform global institutions, such as the United Nations, to prioritize Africa’s development agenda during South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025. A Shared Vision for Africa In her closing remarks, Ojukwu underscored the shared destiny of Nigeria and South Africa as Africa’s leading economies. “Through sustained collaboration, our nations can drive transformative growth across the continent,” she affirmed. This renewed commitment to partnership signals a brighter future for bilateral relations and Africa’s role on the global stage. Key Takeaways: With a robust roadmap for cooperation, Nigeria and South Africa are poised to shape Africa’s future as global leaders.
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Professor Ibrahim Jibrin, a renowned Nigerian political scientist, has expressed gratitude for the opportunities Nigeria provided to him and his generation. Reflecting on the challenges faced by today’s youth, including economic difficulties, health concerns, and limited access to affordable education, Jibrin shared how fortunate his generation was. Born in 1954, Jibrin celebrated his 70th birthday by reminiscing about a time when Nigeria offered high-quality education and support for its citizens. He highlighted that during his youth, there were abundant scholarships from primary school to university, regardless of one’s socioeconomic background. According to Jibrin, “I’m thankful for the journey I’ve had. I come from a generation where Nigeria truly invested in us. The education back then was of exceptional quality, even for children of the less privileged. From secondary school to university, scholarships were readily available, and upon graduation, securing a job was almost guaranteed.” The professor also expressed deep appreciation for Nigeria’s role in shaping his life, saying, “We owe much to Nigeria for its efforts in educating us, providing jobs, and helping us become good citizens. Though today’s generation may not have the same advantages, I believe my generation lived a fulfilling life.” In his reflection, Jibrin acknowledges the struggles of younger Nigerians but remains grateful for the nation’s support in his formative years, underscoring the differences between past and present opportunities.
