馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Senator Oshiomhole defends President Tinubu's commitment to security, cites resource allocation and leadership changes
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, stated that the rising insecurity in Nigeria is not due to a lack of political will from President Bola Tinubu. Oshiomhole made these remarks in Abuja at the public presentation of a book by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC Federal Capital Territory Commandant, Olusola Odumosu. He argued that President Tinubu has provided necessary resources and leadership, including financial commitments and administrative decisions, to address security challenges. Oshiomhole highlighted the President's declaration of a state of emergency and the replacement of former service chiefs as evidence of his resolve. However, he raised concerns about the effective implementation of security directives at operational levels and suggested a review of the NSCDC's name, questioning the term "civil" given its armed operational role. He also emphasized the critical need for coordination among security agencies. Commandant Odumosu, the book's author, echoed the call for stronger collaboration, advocating for a "united front" to tackle insecurity and identifying "unhealthy inter-security agency rivalry" as a major obstacle to national security.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula de Silva humorously remarked that Brazilian star Neymar is "the first player in the world to be called up to the national side and be working remotely." This comment came as Neymar, Brazil's record goalscorer with 79 goals, only recently returned to training with the squad at the World Cup in the United States after recovering from a calf injury. The 34-year-old missed Brazil's opening 1-1 draw with Morocco and was also omitted from the squad for their second group game against Haiti. Lula, 80, made the joke during a ceremony in Belo Horizonte, further quipping that Neymar "is not even playing!" Neymar, who has not played for his country since October 2023, trained with teammates for the first time on Wednesday. He was diagnosed with a right calf injury in late May and has played in only half of his club Santos's games this year due to various fitness issues. Coach Carlo Ancelotti and his staff are reportedly cautious about rushing his return to ensure his availability for later tournament matches. Neymar's inclusion in the squad was a surprise to some given his recent injury history. Brazil's final group stage game is against Scotland in Miami on June 24.
Igbo youth leaders and stakeholders from seven Igbo-speaking states have expressed support for the South East Development Commission SEDC and called on President Bola Tinubu to increase federal appointments for young people from the South-East. This position was articulated during the 'Igbo Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Convention' in Awka. The Convener, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, commended President Tinubu for establishing the SEDC and for ongoing infrastructure projects in the region, viewing these as steps towards addressing developmental challenges. The group appealed for greater inclusion of Igbo youths in federal agencies, emphasizing their talent and entrepreneurial spirit. A communiqu茅 from the convention stressed the importance of transparency and accountability for the SEDC to achieve its mandate, proposing an Integrated Youth Development Master Plan for the South-East focused on employment, entrepreneurship, education, and productivity. The delegates rejected calls for the removal of SEDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Okoye, citing the need for leadership stability. They also reviewed the security situation, urging South-East governors to intensify efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property, stating that sustainable development requires safety and stability. The communiqu茅 was endorsed by representatives of various youth and socio-cultural organizations.
President Bola Tinubu has approved a final six-month extension for Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, allowing him to remain in office until February 2027. This extension, announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to enable Adeniyi to complete key reforms. The initial extension was set to expire on August 1, 2026. The additional six months are intended to consolidate the implementation of the National Single Window and ensure an orderly succession within the service. During this transition, Adeniyi will collaborate with the Nigeria Customs Service Board to manage personnel matters, including promoting eligible officers to Comptroller of Customs and ensuring the compulsory retirement of officers who have reached 60 years of age or completed 35 years of service. Adeniyi joined the Nigeria Customs Service after graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University in the late 1980s and was appointed Comptroller-General of Customs by President Tinubu in June 2023. The extension is expected to provide continuity for ongoing reforms and facilitate a smooth leadership transition.