The Commissioner of Police, Police Airwing Department, CP Martins Nwogoh fdc, psc, mnips, has extended warm Yuletide goodwill to Nigerians while assuring the public of continued professional, intelligence-driven and rights-compliant policing throughout the festive season and beyond.
In a press release signed by the Police Liaison Officer to the Commissioner of Police Airwing, DSP Usman Elizabeth, on December 24, 2025, the Police Airwing Department said it was fully committed to safeguarding lives and property during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
According to the statement, “The Police Airwing Department, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Martins Nwogoh, extend warm compliments of the season to the good people of Nigeria as the Yuletide festivities are celebrated.”
The release disclosed that the Airwing had intensified its operational readiness in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, as conveyed through NIGPOL DOPS. It stated that the directive had been fully complied with through strategic deployment of aerial assets.
“In compliance with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, NPM, directive as conveyed through NIGPOL DOPS, the Commissioner of Police, Airwing has successfully deployed helicopters for aerial surveillance and security operations during the Christmas and New Year festive period,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police further reassured Nigerians of the unwavering resolve of the Airwing Department to deliver effective security services anchored on professionalism and respect for the rule of law. The release quoted CP Nwogoh as affirming that “Airwing remains steadfast in its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the enforcement of the rule of law, and the delivery of professional, intelligence-driven, and human rights–compliant policing.”
Emphasising the standards guiding Airwing operations, the statement noted that, “Through strict adherence to due process and lawful investigative procedures, the Department continues to uphold professionalism, discipline, and integrity in all its operations.”
The Commissioner also called on citizens to actively support security efforts during the festive period by remaining vigilant and cooperative with law enforcement agencies. According to the press release, “The CP further urges members of the public to remain security-conscious, law-abiding, and cooperative with law enforcement agencies,” stressing that “timely and credible information from the public remains vital in supporting efforts to prevent and combat crime, especially during and after the festive period.”
As celebrations continue across the country, the Police Airwing assured Nigerians of its readiness to maintain peace and security into the New Year. The statement concluded with the assurance that “as Nigerians celebrate the season, the Commissioner Airwing assures the public of its continued dedication to justice, transparency, and accountability in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities and a crime-free New Year.”
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has declared that the era of physical file movement in the Ministry of Defence is gradually giving way to a new culture of digital efficiency, transparency and speed in service delivery.
The Minister made this assertion on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, during the official launch and “Go-Live” of the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS) at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
Addressing the management and staff of the Ministry, Musa charged them to fully embrace the new digital way of working, stressing that while technology provides the tools, staff dedication remains the true driver of success. He explained that the event was not merely the launch of a software application, but the commencement of a fundamental shift in how the Ministry conducts the business of national security.
According to the Minister, the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, identifies digital transformation and bureaucratic efficiency as critical pillars for national development. He emphasised that the civil service, as the engine room of government, must be modernised to meet global standards and effectively support the implementation of this agenda.
Musa commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, OON, mni, for her visionary leadership in setting December 31, 2025, as the deadline for all extra-ministerial departments and agencies to transition to paperless operations. He acknowledged that this milestone would not have been possible without the strategic partnership of Galaxy Backbone, praising its management for their technical expertise. He also lauded the Ministry’s ICT team for working tirelessly to ensure the success of the ECMS “Go-Live” project.
“You have provided the digital veins through which our administrative lifeblood will now flow,” the Minister said.
In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation described the launch of the ECMS as an initiative that would stand the test of time. She noted that any effort aimed at strengthening efficiency, accountability and secure information management within the civil service is worthy of commendation.
Mrs Walson-Jack stressed that for a ministry such as Defence, whose mandate lies at the core of national sovereignty and security, effective record management is indispensable. She said the event represented a deliberate and strategic statement of intent by a ministry responsible for defence policy formulation, strategic coordination, military administration and oversight of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Commending the leadership of the Ministry for its foresight and resolve, she expressed particular encouragement at its commitment to digital content service delivery, noting that this aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which envisions a public service that is efficient, accountable, responsive and digitally enabled.
The Head of Service explained that the deployment of the ECMS on the 1Government Cloud marks a fundamental shift in the conduct of government business. Through the system, the Ministry will benefit from secure digital records, automated workflows, electronic approvals and enhanced interoperability. She added that decision-making would now be driven by timely access to information, rather than being delayed by the physical movement of files.
She further noted that the milestone positions the Ministry of Defence to meet the Federal Government’s directive for full digitalisation of work processes by December 31, 2025, while also advancing Pillar Five of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, which prioritises digitalisation across ministries, departments and agencies.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, described the ECMS launch as a critical step in the journey towards greater efficiency, transparency and collaboration within the Ministry. He stated that the 1Government Cloud ECMS is a sovereign digital solution designed to centralise content, enhance document security and empower staff with the tools required to perform their duties effectively.
Adeyanju added that the initiative aligns with Galaxy Backbone’s broader vision of transforming government operations by connecting MDAs nationwide through secure, reliable and intelligent digital platforms. According to him, the objective is to enable every user to work efficiently, securely and productively, thereby improving service delivery to Nigerians.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, described the ECMS launch as a pivotal moment in the Ministry’s transition from paper-based operations to a fully digital, paperless environment. He said the shift represents a strategic move, noting that efficiency in defence administration directly impacts national security.
Pheelangwa explained that by adopting the ECMS, the Ministry is ensuring faster movement of files, timely processing of approvals and improved handling of sensitive data with speed, accuracy and maximum security. He acknowledged that the collaboration with Galaxy Backbone has been instrumental in building an infrastructure resilient enough to support the demands of a paperless ministry.
He concluded by outlining the key benefits of the ECMS to include improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, transparency and accountability, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has dismissed recent calls by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and a former governorship candidate in Zamfara State, Alhaji Sani Shinkafi demanding the sack of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing the attacks as politically motivated, misplaced and diversionary.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwuniko, HURIWA described the threats of nationwide protests by NANS over demands for Matawalle’s removal as reckless, unserious and far removed from the core mandate of a student body. The group accused NANS of acting as political errand runners rather than advocates for students’ welfare and the improvement of Nigeria’s failing education sector.
HURIWA advised NANS and its leadership to “return to classrooms and lecture halls” and refocus on issues that directly affect students, including poor funding of education, decaying infrastructure in universities, incessant strikes, and the alarming decline in academic standards. According to the group, Nigerian universities are increasingly being reduced to the level of glorified primary schools due to chronic underfunding and neglect.
“The duty of NANS is not to issue ultimatums to the President or to campaign for the sack of ministers. Their responsibility is to defend the interests of Nigerian students whose future is being mortgaged by poor budgeting for education, overcrowded classrooms, ill-equipped laboratories and demoralised lecturers,” HURIWA said.
The rights group noted that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has consistently raised concerns about inadequate funding and the collapse of academic standards, stressing that these are the areas where NANS should be deploying its energy and influence. It added that protests should be channelled towards demanding better learning conditions, improved welfare for students and lecturers, and meaningful reforms in the education sector.
“NANS should stop grandstanding and playing to the gallery of politicians. They should work with lecturers, engage policymakers constructively and fight for a system that guarantees quality education and a secure future for Nigerian students. Threatening protests over the fate of a minister is not only misplaced, it is irresponsible,” HURIWA stated.
On the criticisms coming from Alhaji Sani Shinkafi Shinkafi, HURIWA described his interventions as overtly political and driven by partisan interests rather than genuine concern for national security. The group pointed out that Zamfara State remains a hotbed of intense political rivalry between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and that Shinkafi’s comments must be understood within that context.
HURIWA noted that Shinkafi, now aligned with the PDP in Zamfara State after previously belonging to APGA, is widely perceived as working in the political interest of the incumbent administration in the state. According to the group, his repeated attacks on Matawalle are linked to growing fears within rival political camps that the former Zamfara governor and current Minister could emerge as a strong contender under the APC platform in the 2027 gubernatorial election.
“When Shinkafi speaks on Matawalle, Nigerians must listen with discernment. This is not a neutral intervention. It is a politically coloured attack rooted in Zamfara’s fierce power contest. Shinkafi’s political journey, from APGA to his current alignment, shows clearly where his interests lie,” HURIWA said.
The association warned against the politicisation of security matters and cautioned that reckless accusations and public grandstanding could undermine national stability. It urged all actors to allow due process, evidence-based assessments and institutional mechanisms to address security challenges rather than turning them into tools for political warfare.
HURIWA reaffirmed its position that criticism of public officials must be anchored on facts, national interest and respect for democratic institutions, not partisan fear or opportunism.
The group called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate public opinion through politically driven narratives, insisting that both students’ bodies and political actors must act responsibly in the interest of the nation.
General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) has raised alarm over what it describes as an unlawful and contemptuous attempt by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to appoint a Receiver over the company in defiance of a valid court order.
In a strongly-worded statement on Wednesday, the company stated that Justice Lewis Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos had on 23 September 2025 — in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/1903/2025 — issued an interim injunction expressly restraining AMCON, its Managing Director, the Attorney General of the Federation, First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), and their agents from taking any steps to enforce any rights over GHL or its assets pending the determination of the substantive motion.
GHL noted that the order was again reinforced in open court on 22 October 2025, in the presence of AMCON’s representatives.
The court injunction, as quoted in the GHL statement, specifically restrains AMCON and all persons acting on its behalf from: “…taking any steps or continuing with any steps whatsoever to enforce any rights against the Applicant (GHL) or its assets, including but not limited to freezing the accounts of the Applicants, its Directors or Shareholders, the appointment of a Receiver/Receiver Manager, Asset Manager, Recovery Agent, etc…”
The order further blocks any such enforcement actions arising from transactions or agreements relating to AMCON’s purchase of First Bank’s non-performing loan against GHL.
According to the company, the attempt to override the court directive amounts to a calculated abuse of judicial processes, and an alleged scheme by institutions and parties acting in collusion to wrongfully take over GHL’s assets.
“We expect institutions and Government agencies to obey Court Orders and govern Nigeria based on the rule of law, and not lend themselves to be used as willing tools in the hands of private companies to oppress and intimidate innocent citizens, corporate or individual,” GHL said.
The energy firm further asserted that it is not indebted to AMCON, FBN, or any financial institution in Nigeria in any form — either directly or indirectly — and therefore described the attempts to appoint a Receiver as “corrupt, fraudulent, and driven by ulterior motives.”
GHL disclosed that the dispute around its crude oil entitlements has now reached the Supreme Court in Suit No: SC/CV/929/2025. It added that it has also filed to set aside what it termed an inconsistent arbitration award at the Federal High Court in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2241/2025.
The company confirmed that all relevant parties — including AMCON and its legal proxies — are expected to return to Justice Allagoa’s court on 11 November 2025, where GHL intends to formally report the alleged material non-disclosure, abuse of court processes, and disregard for the subsisting orders of the Federal High Court.
While insisting it will “vehemently resist” any illegal takeover attempt, the company appealed for calm among partners, investors, and the general public.
“As a law-abiding citizen, we urge all our stakeholders to remain calm as we are certain that justice will be served according to the law,” the statement added.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery and training infrastructure across the Nigerian Armed Forces.
During an official visit to Kaduna, Ambassador Aduda inspected the newly completed 100-bed Medical Interns Accommodation Facility at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (NARH).
The state-of-the-art complex features en-suite rooms, fully equipped common areas, recreational lounges, and an alternative solar power system—designed to provide a comfortable and sustainable living environment for medical interns.
Speaking after the tour, Ambassador Aduda expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facility, noting that dignified accommodation plays a critical role in improving the performance and morale of healthcare professionals within the Armed Forces.
“By investing in quality living conditions, we empower our interns to focus on their responsibilities without distraction, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for our gallant men and women in uniform,” he stated.
The Permanent Secretary also underscored the importance of reliable infrastructure such as steady power supply and well-equipped communal areas to ensure an efficient, safe, and supportive environment for residents.
In a related development, Ambassador Aduda conducted an assessment visit to the Special Operations Forces Training Ground at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Camp Kabala. Accompanied by the Camp Commandant, Major General FS Etim, the Permanent Secretary inspected ongoing training exercises and facilities, commending the high standards of discipline and operational readiness demonstrated by the personnel.
He was joined on the tour by senior officials including Dr. Sunday Attah, Director of Army Affairs at the Ministry of Defence; Brigadier General GS Ogoh, Director of Medical Services at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, and other Ministry representatives.
These visits underscore the Ministry’s broader strategic vision to strengthen operational capacity and enhance the welfare of military personnel through sustained investment in infrastructure and human capital.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed H.E. Badaru Abubakar CON, mni has concluded a two-day working visit to key military institutions in Kaduna State, including the Nigerian Defence Academy, Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot (CED), Buffalo Engineering Technical Services Limited (BETSL), and the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT).
Accompanied by senior military officials, including Major General M.L.D. Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division; Major General A.K. Ibrahim, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy; and Air Vice Marshal Sani Labaran Rabe, Commandant of AFIT, the Minister engaged with personnel and observed the advancements in military training and production.
In his remarks to journalists following the visits, the Minister emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to transitioning from foreign military procurement to local production of combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, and other military equipment. This transition marks a significant step toward self-reliance, enhancing national security.
“The ongoing efforts in training, local production, and refurbishment of military assets are commendable,” the Minister stated. “During my inspections, I witnessed the impressive capabilities in repairing and refurbishing damaged Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, tanks, and Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs). New combat platforms, including Buffalo APCs, MRAPs, bulletproof glass, spare parts, and surveillance UAVs, are being developed in our workshops. Some of these assets are already being redeployed to operational theaters.”
He praised the Armed Forces for their innovative initiatives and highlighted the essential role of Training, Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) in achieving operational excellence. He called for continued collaboration between military institutions and increased investment in military RDI to enhance efficiency and reduce dependence on imported hardware.
Badaru also noted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defense capabilities, referencing the recent signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill into law. This legislation aims to facilitate the local production, repair, refurbishment, and supply of military hardware and ordnance for the armed forces and other security agencies.
He stressed the importance of ongoing support for institutions such as the Nigerian Defence Academy, AFIT, CED, and BETSL to ensure the development of skilled, competent, and dedicated military personnel and enhance defense production capabilities.
In a sweeping nationwide tour aimed at revitalizing the Nigeria Police Force Airwing, the recently appointed Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Airwing, CP Martin Nwogoh, embarked on a series of high-level courtesy visits to strategic stakeholders in the aviation industry and within the Nigeria Police hierarchy.
These engagements, held between May 14 and May 22, 2025, are a continuation of CP Nwogoh’s effort to drive forward the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s agenda to reposition the Airwing as a formidable aerial surveillance and tactical support unit.
The visits, which spanned Lagos, Osogbo in Osun State, Enugu, and Lafia in Nasarawa State, were focused on fostering collaborative partnerships in aircraft maintenance, technical training, drone deployment, and infrastructure development. The CP used the engagements as platforms to rally for support, share the IGP’s vision, and cement critical partnerships to ensure continued airworthiness, operational sustainability, and training advancements for the Airwing.
Engagement with Caverton Group: Consolidating Technical Collaboration
CP Martin Nwogoh visited the Caverton Group Headquarters in Lagos where he was warmly received by the Chief Executive Officer, Captain Rotimi Makajola. In his welcome address, outlined Caverton’s operational footprint spanning aviation and marine services, with emphasis on training and maintenance capabilities.
During the CP Martin Nwogoh, CP Airwing’s Visit to Airfirst Mainatance and Engineering Limited Lagos Recently
Highlighting their deep expertise in aircraft maintenance, Captain Makajola expressed Caverton’s readiness to partner with the Police Airwing by integrating police engineers into their maintenance programs.
In his response, CP Nwogoh expressed deep appreciation for Caverton’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and technical proficiency, acknowledging that the collaboration would be instrumental in actualizing the IGP’s vision to restore grounded aircraft and roll out drone operations nationwide. According to the CP, this synergy would ensure that criminal elements find “no hiding place” as the Airwing regains its full operational strength.
The CP was taken on a guided tour of Caverton’s maintenance hangars, drone assembly hall, logistics facilities, and training classrooms.
Captain Makajola, in his closing remarks, reaffirmed Caverton’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police in achieving aviation excellence.
Commissioner of police Airwing Pays Courtesy Visit to Caverton Helicopters in Lagos
Strategic Engagement with Lagos State Police Command
In a related engagement, CP Nwogoh paid a courtesy visit to CP Oluhundare Jimo, the 41st Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command.
In his address, CP Nwogoh decried the dire state of the Airwing’s hangar infrastructure in Lagos, calling for collaborative efforts to refurbish it in line with the IGP’s revamp directive.
He emphasized the strategic importance of aerial coverage in addressing Nigeria’s complex security terrain, citing the ongoing patrols on the Kaduna–Abuja highway as a successful deployment model and raised the urgent need to operationalize the IRS helicopters.
CP Jimo pledged unwavering support to the Airwing’s revitalization effort, expressing confidence in CP Nwogoh’s capacity to lead this transformation. He acknowledged the Airwing’s critical role in national security and promised to discuss the need for aerial surveillance in Ikorodu with the proactive Lagos State Governor.
Consolidating Aviation Training Partnerships: Visit to Aero Consult ATO
At the Aero Consult Aviation Training Organisation (ATO) in Lagos, CP Nwogoh was received by Mr. Christopher A. O., the Accountable Manager, who introduced the Aero Consult management and outlined the organisation’s aviation programs and capabilities. The meeting marked another milestone in the CP’s mission to consolidate partnerships with aviation training institutions.
CP Nwogoh emphasized the crucial role of aviation in effective crime fighting and security operations, reiterating the IGP’s directive for robust training and retraining of Airwing officers. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Aero Consult’s application for formal partnership with the Police Airwing to build technical capacity.
Mr. Christopher expressed appreciation for the CP’s historic visit and reiterated Aero Consult’s readiness to support the Police Airwing in any capacity.
Lecture and Facility Tour at the Lagos Airwing Hangar
On May 14, 2025, CP Nwogoh delivered a lecture and conducted a facility inspection at the Lagos Airwing Hangar. DCP A. Razaq welcomed the CP and gave a detailed briefing on recent achievements and prevailing challenges, including poor accommodation, absence of a functional power generator, vehicle shortages, and general disrepair of the hangar premises.
CP Nwogoh praised the resilience of the officers and pledged immediate action, starting with the provision of a power generator upon his return to Abuja.
The CP emphasized the strategic importance of the Lagos Hangar as the first in the country and assured the personnel of its full restoration. He outlined the IGP’s broader agenda to revive grounded aircraft, deploy drones, reinforce discipline, and improve welfare across the Airwing.
The CP also toured key facilities including the dilapidated AIG’s Office, library, stores, pilot rooms, avionics section, and administrative areas, reaffirming his resolve to overhaul Airwing infrastructure Nationwide in line with the IGP’s directive.
Strengthening Ties with Airfirst and Aviation Stakeholders
Furthering technical collaborations, CP Nwogoh paid a courtesy visit to Airfirst, an MRO service provider, whose Abuja office currently operates out of the Police Hangar. Discussions centered on integrating the Airwing into Airfirst’s Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO), which would enhance the operational sustainability of Police aircraft.
Osogbo Visit: Appeal for Infrastructure Development
On May 16, 2025, CP Nwogoh visited Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, where he met with the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Muhammad. The visit focused on the Police helipad in Osogbo, which currently lacks a hangar and technical facilities. CP Nwogoh emphasized the need to deploy pilots, engineers, and necessary equipment to activate operations at the site.
CP Umar pledged to communicate the importance of the facility to the State Governor and to seek his support in establishing a fully functional hangar and associated infrastructure.
Tour of Enugu Airwing Facility and Visit to International Helicopter Flying School
CP Nwogoh’s tour also took him to Enugu, where he inspected the Airwing facility established in 2014 under the administration of former Governor Sullivan Chime. Although the hangar includes accommodation and office space for pilots and engineers, it has remained underutilized due to the absence of personnel and equipment. CP Nwogoh met with the Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and the state Commissioner of Police to discuss deployment plans. Both pledged their full support, with the Governor promising assistance once operations commence.
The CP also visited the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) located at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. He was received by the Rector, Captain F.S. Ma’aji, who detailed the school’s achievements, including the graduation of 30 students, facility upgrades, and international training engagements, such as the recent graduation of eight Burkina Faso military personnel.
Captain Ma’aji recounted the school’s founding in 2012 and praised the performance of its pioneering students, many of whom are now senior Police Airwing officers. He proposed the conversion of 12 fixed-wing pilots to helicopter pilots and highlighted the school’s advanced training equipment, including simulators and Robinson helicopter maintenance capabilities.
In his response, CP Nwogoh commended the school’s contributions to aviation training and reaffirmed the IGP’s directive on retraining and up-skilling police pilots. He expressed strong interest in the proposed conversion training and noted the need for continued collaboration to enhance the Police Airwing’s human capital.
A Vision for Transformation
Throughout the multi-city tour, which concluded on Thursday, May 22 in Lafia, Nasarawa State, CP Martin Nwogoh demonstrated a clear vision and unwavering commitment to transform the Nigeria Police Airwing into a world-class aerial support unit as directed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D. His strategic engagements with technical partners, training institutions, and police commands are laying the groundwork for a modern, responsive, and professional aviation wing.
The partnerships initiated during this tour reflect a broader determination to restore all grounded helicopters, deploy drone technology, and ensure that no part of Nigeria is beyond the reach of law enforcement. As CP Nwogoh continues his tour, more updates are expected as the Airwing edges closer to a new era of operational excellence and national security support.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the United Nations (UN) and the global community in promoting peace and security during the second day of the Plenary High-Level Pledging Session of the United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025.
The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s active participation in international peacekeeping efforts, noting the country’s rotation of the Base Protection Force deployed with the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei, as well as the Formed Police Unit at the United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia.
In his address, Badaru emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role in sub-regional peace initiatives under the auspices of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU). He cited Nigeria’s significant contributions to peacekeeping missions in Sierra Leone and Liberia, and more recently engagements in The Gambia and Guinea Bissau.
Furthermore, Minister Badaru announced Nigeria’s renewed pledges to the Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System, adding five additional commitments aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s readiness to support global peacekeeping efforts.
The Minister concluded his address by reiterating Nigeria’s dedication to fostering stability and security, both regionally and globally.
A national coalition of more than 75 civil society organisations, human rights groups, and community-based organisations under the umbrella of the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) has sounded the alarm over what it calls “a grave affront to judicial integrity” in Niger State. In a detailed statement signed by its National Secretary, Alhaji Ali Abacha, the coalition condemned the actions of Justice Bilkisu Yusuf of the High Court of Niger State, Minna, accusing her of undermining the rule of law and creating a dangerous “judicial collision” with the Court of Appeal.
The coalition’s outrage is focused on proceedings in Suit No. NSHC/MN/247/2014, a high-stakes land dispute between Homefronts Consultants Limited and Foundation Mira over a prime piece of property on David Road, Minna. According to CNCSOs, Foundation Mira holds a valid Certificate of Occupancy issued more than 30 years ago by the state government, with no record of revocation, and has paid millions of Naira in statutory ground rent. The land, they noted, has since been transformed into a multibillion-naira international shopping mall, with investments exceeding N20 billion.
“Justice Yusuf took his illegality to the extreme by looking into the sunny face of the Court of Appeal by refusing to stay proceedings even when an appeal over the subject matter has been filed before the Court of Appeal and the Court has already started sitting on the matter,” the statement read. “This blatant defiance creates what is, in judicial circles, described as a head-on collision with the Court of Appeal.”
The coalition accused the judge of allowing the plaintiffs to construct residential buildings on portions of the land that were meant to serve as parking space for the mall, despite the case still being contested in court. “This blatant act of possession, allegedly encouraged by the court’s inaction or complicity, undermines both the integrity of the litigation process and the rights of the defendants,” CNCSOs declared.
The coalition expressed additional concern over what it described as deliberate obstruction of the defendants’ right to a fair trial. According to the statement, the defendants’ attempts to present their witnesses were repeatedly frustrated, prompting them to file a motion seeking Justice Yusuf’s recusal. “The 1st and 2nd Defendants, after facing continuous obstruction in calling witnesses to support their case, filed a motion requesting the recusal of the judge to allow for a fair reassignment. This motion was summarily dismissed,” CNCSOs stated.
Following the dismissal, the defendants filed an appeal before the Court of Appeal (Appeal No. CA/ABJ/PRE/ROA/CV/1392MI/2024) challenging the refusal to recuse and the denial of a fair hearing. Despite formal notification of this appeal and confirmation that proceedings commenced at the Court of Appeal on January 22, 2025, Justice Yusuf reportedly pressed on with hearings in the lower court.
“Legal experts agree that once an appeal on the subject matter has been filed and proceedings have commenced at the Court of Appeal, the lower court is constitutionally bound to suspend any further action,” the coalition emphasized. “Justice Yusuf’s decision to forge ahead in defiance of this principle amounts to what is known in legal parlance as a ‘judicial collision’ with the Court of Appeal.”
The coalition also revealed that Justice Yusuf is facing other petitions before the National Judicial Council (NJC), including one tied to a separate case, Suit No. NSHC/MN/727M/2024 (Ammatulah Chado Jummai v. Mr. Samuel Gana & Anor), where similar conduct allegedly occurred. According to CNCSOs, the NJC Secretariat officially received one such petition on February 14, 2025.
“The actions of Justice Yusuf do not only endanger the outcome of the specific case in question, but also tarnish the sanctity and public perception of the judiciary in Niger State and Nigeria at large,” the coalition warned. “The Judge’s conduct strikes at the very heart of the trust the Nigerian people must have in our justice system to be fair, unbiased, and respectful of judicial procedure and appellate authority.”
In response, the coalition issued a set of urgent demands: immediate investigation by the NJC into Justice Yusuf’s conduct, reassignment of the case to another judge by the Chief Judge of Niger State, and intervention by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to safeguard judicial credibility.
“We call upon [the CJN] to ensure that justice is not only done, but seen to be done in this case,” CNCSOs urged. “We believe that her leadership is vital in guiding the NJC and protecting the credibility of the judiciary from erosion due to rogue behaviour by a few within its ranks.”
Warning of potential mass action, the coalition vowed to mobilize nationwide protests if decisive action is not taken. “Should appropriate action not be taken swiftly, the Coalition will be left with no option but to mobilize for a mass protest at the NJC Secretariat and other relevant institutions to demand accountability and insist on justice for the aggrieved parties,” the statement read.
Concluding the statement, Alhaji Abacha reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to defending Nigeria’s democratic values. “Let it be known that our call is not merely in defence of the rights of the defendants in the suit in question, but in defence of every Nigerian who depends on the courts as the final hope for justice,” he declared. “A judiciary that is not accountable endangers the very fabric of our democracy and peace.”
The coalition expressed optimism that the matter will be addressed with the urgency and seriousness it demands, reiterating its resolve to uphold the rule of law and institutional accountability nationwide.
The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have jointly raised alarm over what they describe as a dangerous attempt by the Chief Judge of Benue State, Hon. Justice Maurice Ikpambese, to manipulate the Local Government Election Petition Appeals Tribunal for political purposes.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, and Alhaji Ali Abacha, National Secretary of CNCSOs, the groups alleged that Justice Ikpambese orchestrated the removal of Justice Maimuna Ikwulono from the Appeals Tribunal for maintaining her judicial independence. Justice Mohammed has since been appointed in her place, raising serious questions about the credibility of the tribunal’s work.
The CNPP and CNCSOs cited credible reports linking the Chief Judge’s actions to an ongoing political feud with Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and an alleged alliance with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. George Akume.
They alleged that Justice Ikpambese, who is expected to retire next year, has been promised the Senatorial ticket for Benue North-East (Zone A) in exchange for using his office to weaken the Governor’s political base by removing elected local government chairmen aligned against Akume’s interests.
They noted that so far, tribunal judgments have led to the removal of four out of seven chairmen in Zone A, with no chairmen removed in Zone B — a clear indication of targeted political maneuvering.
The groups recalled that a previous effort by the Benue State House of Assembly to remove Justice Ikpambese through a petition was stalled by interventions from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the National Judicial Council (NJC), both emphasizing strict adherence to due process.
Of particular concern, CNPP and CNCSOs referenced video evidence showing Justice Ikpambese at a political event, where he reportedly boasted — in Tiv language — about his intention to frustrate Governor Alia by influencing tribunal outcomes through selective appointments.
The groups further alleged that the Chief Judge hurriedly constituted an emergency panel within the tribunal’s final month, leading to controversial rulings that ousted elected officials and installed candidates who had not even contested the elections — a development they describe as a “calculated judicial ambush” against the will of the Benue electorate.
As a consequence of these actions, the Benue State Government has reportedly lost control of nine out of twenty-three local governments, deepening political tensions in the state.
The CNPP and CNCSOs categorically condemned the removal of Justice Maimuna Ikwulono on the basis of an uninvestigated petition, insisting that only the NJC has the constitutional authority to discipline judicial officers. They warned that unilateral interference in judicial functions poses a grave threat to democracy and judicial independence.
While commending the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the NJC for her ongoing efforts to safeguard judicial integrity nationwide, the groups issued a stern warning to Justice Ikpambese:
“If the Chief Judge does not immediately discontinue his self-confessed plans to use the Local Government Tribunal to frustrate the Governor and the electorate of Benue State by manipulating tribunal outcomes through selective appointments, the CNPP and CNCSOs will be left with no option but to mobilize mass protests to occupy the National Judicial Council (NJC) headquarters until he is removed from office.”
They concluded: “The integrity of our judiciary must never be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. We demand immediate corrective actions to protect democratic institutions and uphold the sanctity of justice in Benue State.”
Active News Africa 