The Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is one of the most iconic buildings in Africa. Made entirely from mudbrick, it’s the largest mud-built structure in the world and a powerful symbol of West African culture and Islamic history. Every year, the community helps re-plaster it to keep it standing strong.

#Djenné #Mali #AfricanHistory #Architecture #places

Was Ondo Governor’s Security Compromised? Protocol Chiefs Accused of Swapping Convoy Drivers Without Clearance Amid Rising Safety Fears

A serious security controversy has emerged within the Ondo State Government following allegations that top protocol officials authorized a change of drivers in the governor’s convoy without security clearance, a move insiders describe as a dangerous breach of established procedure. The incident has reportedly heightened tension inside Government House and raised concerns about vulnerabilities in the governor’s protective arrangements.

According to multiple security sources, the Chief of Protocol (CoP), Mr. Olasanya Abayomi, and the Director of Protocol (DoP), Barr. Asonja George, allegedly ordered the replacement of convoy drivers without informing the Chief Security Officer (CSO) or the Aide-de-Camp (ADC)—the two officers legally responsible for coordinating the governor’s personal security.

Security experts within the government described the action as a “grave breach of protocol,” stressing that no driver attached to the governor’s convoy should be changed without clearance from the CSO and ADC. One senior official told SaharaReporters that bypassing this chain of command constitutes a serious security violation, especially at a time of heightened national security concerns.

The development is said to have unsettled junior officers and deepened mistrust among senior officials, with insiders warning that internal lapses of this nature could weaken confidence in the state’s security architecture. Some officials expressed fears that overlapping authority between protocol and security units could create confusion and expose the governor to potential risks.

More troubling are allegations that the Chief of Protocol may be acting in concert with unnamed individuals to politically undermine the governor’s security structure. Although no concrete evidence has been made public, the claims have intensified calls for an independent investigation, with sources insisting that the governor’s safety must not be subjected to internal power struggles or administrative shortcuts.

Stakeholders are now urging the Ondo State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently probe the incident, determine accountability, and restore confidence in the state’s protective operations. Civil society actors have also called for the two officials involved to step aside pending investigations, arguing that doing so would reassure the public and demonstrate institutional accountability.

However, the state government has pushed back against claims of a security breach. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, denied that the governor’s safety was compromised, confirming instead that the driver changes were part of a routine annual reshuffle. He explained that all drivers fall under the supervision of the Chief of Protocol and that similar reassignments also affected other units, including the media and ambulance services.

Despite this official explanation, security analysts argue that the episode highlights a deeper structural issue: the need for clear coordination between protocol and security departments. Experts warn that when protocol functions override established security procedures, it can create vulnerabilities that may be exploited.

As the controversy continues, one key question remains: Was the governor’s security genuinely compromised, or was this merely an administrative routine that was misinterpreted? The answer may depend on the outcome of any investigation and whether the state government moves to review and strengthen its internal security and protocol processes.

PLATEAU GOVERNMENT TRAINS PERSONNEL IN COMMUNITY BASED SECURITY OPERATION

Governor Caleb Mutfwang says investing in the security architecture of the state is a priority that must be met towards tackling insecurity in parts of the state.

He stated this during the Passing Out parade of personnel of the community based state security outfit, code named, Operation Rainbow in Jos.

The community based security outfit Operation Rainbow is part of strategy by the state government to provide security structure at the community level towards enhancing intelligence support, protect communities and a rapid response to emerging security threats.

It is in this regard that another batch of 1450 persons were trained. The passing out parade therefore is the formal induction of the trainees into Operation Rainbow.

Governor Mutfwang says security remains the bed rock for sustainable development and urged them to adhere to rule of law, human rights and the principles of responsible engagement with civilians.

He emphasized that Operation rainbow is an all inclusive security outfit meant to protect all citizens irrespective of ethnic or religious background.

The coordinator, Operation Rainbow Brigadier General Gakji Shipi says the recruits were trained in tactical drills and community defense modules serving as first line of protection for their communities.

Trump Bombs Farmlands in Sokoto, Tinubu Travels Abroad as Defence Minister Musa Goes Silent: A Scathing Review of Nigeria’s Security Crisis by Dr. Nasiru Aminu

In this hard-hitting opinion piece, Dr. Nasiru Aminu delivers a blistering critique of Nigeria’s leadership and security architecture following the controversial US airstrikes on Christmas night, which reportedly bombed farmlands in Sokoto rather than confirmed terrorist hideouts. He argues that the strikes were justified by former US President Donald Trump using claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria—claims the author describes as exaggerated, misleading and rooted in Trump’s polarising, post-truth political style.

Dr. Aminu questions why Sokoto was targeted instead of known terror hotspots in the North-East, noting that no credible evidence has emerged to confirm that ISIS or other terrorists were neutralised. He criticises Trump for belittling Nigeria publicly while simultaneously imposing visa restrictions on Nigerians, including Christians he claims to defend.

The article further examines the Nigerian government’s response, highlighting conflicting narratives from officials. While the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Information publicly supported the US action, Tinubu’s policy communication adviser, Daniel Bwala, openly described the situation as “sketchy.” Other ministers offered what the author calls unhelpful or misplaced commentary, while President Bola Tinubu himself remained silent and left the country on an end-of-year trip days after the bombing.

A major focus of the piece is the silence of the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, whom Dr. Aminu accuses of failing in his responsibility at a critical national moment. Despite widespread public anxiety, Musa did not address the nation or clarify whether he was involved in, or even informed about, the bombing. Instead, media reports showed him attending personal celebrations and ceremonial events, behaviour the author describes as unprofessional and insensitive during a national security crisis.

Dr. Aminu concludes that the absence of leadership, accountability and clear communication following the bombing reflects deeper systemic failures in Nigeria’s security management. He warns that unless this pattern changes, Nigerians should brace for continued mediocrity, insecurity and public disillusionment in the year ahead.

Human Rights Lawyer Ejiofor Criticizes Tinubu Govt Over Widespread Hunger, Poverty, and Security Failures in 2025

Human rights lawyer Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor has condemned Nigeria’s socio-economic and security situation under President Bola Tinubu in 2025, citing insecurity, economic hardship, and legislative failure as defining issues. He described hunger and poverty as “democratised” and no longer selective, attributing worsening conditions to inflation, stagnant wages, and poorly conceived policies.

Ejiofor criticized the National Assembly for rubber-stamping bills like the Tax Reform Act without proper oversight and accused the government of selective responses to violent attacks, worsening inequality and shrinking the middle class. Despite the grim assessment, he expressed gratitude for survival and urged the emergence of compassionate leadership, people-centered policies, and a security architecture rooted in justice as Nigeria enters 2026.

Tinubu Announces Order of 4 US Attack Helicopters, Emphasizes State and Community Policing During CAN Leaders Meeting

President Bola Tinubu revealed that his administration has ordered four attack helicopters from the United States to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaking at a meeting with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leaders, Tinubu acknowledged delays in military procurement but assured that ongoing security reforms, including state and community policing, would soon yield results. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation from religious leaders and called for vigilance in tackling insecurity. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh pledged support for the administration and requested direct engagement with local structures across Nigeria to further collaboration.

FG GRADUATES OVER 7,000 FOREST GUARDS, SET FOR IMMEDIATE DEPLOYMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

Tinubu Announces Order of 4 US Attack Helicopters, Highlights State and Community Policing in Security Reforms to CAN Leaders

President Bola Tinubu revealed that his administration has ordered four attack helicopters from the United States to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaking to Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leaders, he acknowledged delays in military hardware procurement but reassured that ongoing reforms, including the establishment of state and community policing, will yield results. Tinubu emphasized the need for religious leaders’ cooperation, defended the government’s handling of schoolchildren abductions, and confirmed engagement with Turkey for additional security support. CAN pledged its backing, urging direct engagement through its local structures nationwide.

U.S. Coordinated With Nigeria’s NSA, AFRICOM To Strike ISIS-Linked Terrorist Targets In Sokoto

Fresh details have emerged on the United States airstrikes carried out against ISIS-linked terrorist elements in northwest Nigeria, revealing that the operation was closely coordinated with Nigeria’s national security architecture. A senior Nigerian government source disclosed that the strikes authorised by U.S. President Donald Trump were largely planned and executed through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), headed by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the source, intelligence units within the NSA’s office worked in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) to identify, locate, and target terrorist enclaves operating in parts of northern Nigeria. The objective of the operation, the source said, was the “elimination” of ISIS-affiliated fighters accused of fueling deadly attacks and insecurity across the region. However, the exact number of targets hit and the scale of damage inflicted remain unclear.

Reports confirmed that at least one explosion occurred on the outskirts of Jibo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, suggesting that the area was among those struck during the operation. As of the time of reporting, there was no independent confirmation of casualties, and Nigerian authorities have not released details regarding possible civilian impact.

The U.S. Africa Command later confirmed via social media that it carried out attacks on terrorist camps in northwest Nigeria, although its initial statement misspelled Sokoto State as “Soboto,” an error that was subsequently corrected. Despite the confirmation, both Nigerian and U.S. officials have remained tight-lipped about the full scope of coordination, Nigeria’s operational role, and safeguards taken to prevent civilian harm.

The revelation of U.S.–Nigeria intelligence-backed military action has intensified public debate over foreign involvement in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, national sovereignty, and transparency in security operations. It also underscores the growing security cooperation between Abuja and Washington amid escalating terrorist violence in Nigeria’s northwest.

FG Condemns Borno Mosque Attack, Intensifies Security Operations in Maiduguri

The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the bomb attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed five lives and injured several others. Vice President Kashim Shettima described the attack as a “despicable assault on innocent citizens” and emphasized that it would not weaken Nigeria’s unity or resolve to fight terrorism.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State. Additional tactical security teams are being deployed to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible. Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture to ensure the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

The vice president also extended condolences to the victims’ families, the Borno State government, and residents of Maiduguri. He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting lives, and maintaining stability. Federal authorities are working closely with state and local security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

The attack has also sparked emotional reactions on social media, with family members of victims sharing tributes. Shettima assured the public that security agencies are working round the clock to bring justice and prevent future attacks.

VP Shettima: Borno Attack Will Not Break Nigeria’s Resolve

Vice President Kashim Shettima has condemned in strong terms the bomb explosion that claimed about five lives and left several others injured at a Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

A statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, Office of The Vice President indicates that the Vice President said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State following the incident.

In a statement on Thursday, the Vice President condemned the attack, assuring that the Federal Government is deploying additional tactical teams to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible for the terror attack.

"The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately," he said.

Senator Shettima expressed confidence that the security architecture currently in place would not only apprehend the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"We sympathize with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law," VP Shettima said.

He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration's commitment to national security, anchored in constitutional duty, remains unwavering.

"Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.

"This commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will continue to provide our security agencies with all necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms," he affirmed.

The Vice President added that the Federal Government is working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to ensure protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

Borno Mosque Bombing: Tinubu Orders Heightened Security as Shettima Says Terror Attack Will Not Break Nigeria’s Resolve

Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the deadly bomb explosion at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which killed five worshippers and left at least 35 others injured. Describing the incident as a despicable and cowardly act of terrorism, Shettima said the attack was a direct assault on innocent citizens and Nigeria’s peace and security.

Following the incident, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the immediate intensification of security operations across Borno State. According to a statement issued on Christmas Day by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, additional tactical security teams have been deployed to hunt down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

Shettima assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would not be deterred by acts of terror, stressing that security agencies are working round the clock to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that ongoing operations would not only lead to arrests but also uncover the full circumstances surrounding the bombing.

The Vice President extended condolences to the Borno State Government, affected residents, and families of the victims, reiterating that those behind the attack would face the full weight of the law. He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing national security as a core constitutional responsibility.

Shettima further disclosed that the Federal Government is working closely with the Borno State Government, local authorities, and security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other parts of the country, vowing that terrorism will be decisively defeated in all its forms.

NSCDC DEPLOYS 55,000 OPERATIVES FOR YULETIDE SECURITY

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, says it has deployed over 55,000 operatives nationwide to ensure the safety of lives, property, and critical national assets during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Commandant General of the Corps, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, hinted that the deployment is to strengthen the nation’s security architecture, especially as criminal elements often exploit festive periods to carry out unlawful activities.

The NSCDC boss directed Zonal Commanders to closely monitor formations under their control, while State Commandants are to coordinate area commands, divisions, and other operational units to ensure effective coverage, assuring the Corps’ readiness to work with sister security agencies, urging citizens to cooperate and support security efforts for a peaceful and secure festive season.

Obey Supreme Court On LG Autonomy Before Demanding State Police — Lawyer Omirhobo Warns Nigerian Governors

A Lagos-based lawyer and public interest advocate, Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo, has warned Nigerian governors to fully comply with Supreme Court judgements on local government autonomy before agitating for the creation of state police. In a strongly worded statement, Omirhobo described it as ironic and dangerous for governors who routinely flout court orders—especially the apex court’s ruling granting financial and administrative autonomy to local governments—to seek control of armed state police forces.
He argued that governors who cannot obey the Supreme Court lack the moral, legal, and constitutional authority to oversee security institutions. Omirhobo cautioned that granting state police powers to such governors could lead to abuse, political repression, and the weaponisation of security agencies against opponents, journalists, and civil society. He stressed that local government autonomy is a constitutional mandate, not a privilege from governors, and warned that decentralisation without accountability threatens democracy.
The lawyer concluded that respect for the rule of law and obedience to court orders must precede any serious discussion on restructuring Nigeria’s security architecture, insisting that constitutional governance must come before political power.

FG Lists 31 Individuals and Groups as Terrorists Under New National Security Doctrine

President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a sweeping new national security doctrine in Nigeria, redefining who will be treated as terrorists under state law. The directive classifies armed groups, kidnappers, extortionists, and foreign-linked mercenaries as terrorists. It also includes enablers such as financiers, arms suppliers, safe house owners, and political, traditional, community, or religious leaders who facilitate or encourage violent acts. The President emphasized that the doctrine aims to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, protect corporate survival, and reduce public anxiety. The government will prioritize equipping the armed forces and security agencies with personnel and modern hardware to ensure effective implementation.

Gov. Ododo’s Executive Proclamation Not State of Emergency

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has clarified that his recent Executive Proclamation on security protocols in the state is not a declaration of a state of emergency but a set of necessary measures to enhance the security architecture to crackdown on criminals in all parts of the state.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, explaining that the proclamation is a lawful constitutional measure aimed at strengthening security coordination and protecting lives and property across Kogi State.

Gov. Ododo emphasized that it is within his powers as the Chief Security Officer of the state under Section 14 subsection 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

He noted that the proclamation seeks to enhance collaboration among security agencies without suspending constitutional rights or declaring a state of emergency.

The Governor explained that the measures include verification of security operatives, mandatory identification checks, and prosecution of anyone aiding or abetting criminal elements such as bandits and terrorists.

He also clarified that the proclamation aims to curb the rise of fake security personnel and improve the overall security architecture of Kogi State.

He warned that individuals or organizations found supporting criminal activities will be treated as enemies of the state and prosecuted under applicable laws.

The Governor further stressed that all properties used in the commission of such crimes shall be forfeited to the Kogi State Government.

This, in addition to relevant constitutional provisions is backed by the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016, which empowers the state government to seize properties and assets used in the perpetration of violent crimes in any part of the state.

The Governor expressed gratitude to security agencies for their efforts and reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to peace and security.

Recalled that Governor Ododo on Tuesday rolled out a number of security protocols following the recovery of a large cache of weapons in the state by security agencies acting on intelligence.

PRESS RELEASE

COAS VISITS OBA OF LAGOS, SOLICITS TRADITIONAL SUPPORT FOR MILITARY OPERATIONS

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 11 December 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at his palace in Lagos.

During the visit, the COAS expressed profound appreciation to the revered monarch and the council of Obas for their consistent support to the Nigerian Army. He noted that the purpose of his visit was not only to extend his gratitude but also to seek the blessings of the royal father, stressing that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacrosanct and must always be honoured.

General Shaibu lauded Oba Akiolu for the fatherly role he has continually played in supporting Army formations and institutions across Lagos State. He described the Oba’s guidance and goodwill as invaluable to the Army’s operational and civil–military cooperation efforts.

In his response, the Oba of Lagos commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace. He described the Army as a critical pillar upon which the Nigerian State stands, adding that the sacrifices and professionalism of its personnel have contributed significantly to national stability.

Oba Akiolu also applauded the COAS for his steadfast leadership and dedication to ensuring a peaceful and secure country. He thereafter offered special prayers for sustained peace in Nigeria and for Lieutenant General Shaibu’s successful tenure as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.

The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening relationships with traditional institutions as vital stakeholders in the nation’s peace and security architecture

APPOLONIA ANELE
Colonel
Acting Director Army Public Relations
11 December 2025

CUSTOMS COMPTROLLER GAMBO IYERE ALIYU WHO REJECTED $50,000 BRIBE TAKES HELM AT FOU ZONE A

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service has witnessed a major transition as outgoing Comptroller , now Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, formally handed over leadership to the new Customs Area Comptroller , Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu. The handover ceremony, held on December 10, 2025, marked a notable moment for the Service’s anti-smuggling architecture as both senior officers outlined their visions for stronger enforcement and national economic protection.

In his valedictory remarks, ACG Shuaibu expressed deep gratitude to God and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, dsm, fnipr,psc+ for the trust and support that enabled him to lead the Zone effectively. He described his seven-month tenure as both challenging and rewarding, noting that his mandate upon assumption of office on April 23, 2025 was to strengthen intelligence-driven operations within the Zone.

He reported remarkable achievements during his stewardship, driven by the resilience and professionalism of officers under his command. According to him, the Unit recorded 476 interceptions comprising 761 seizures valued at ₦10,051,812,208, including 23,000 bags of smuggled rice, 98 used vehicles, 2,350 kg of cannabis sativa, 1,820 jerry cans of PMS, 15 rifles, 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kg of methamphetamine, and four 50kg cylinders of explosives of Russian origin.He added that the Unit also transferred $20,000 in intercepted currencies to the EFCC, arrested 38 suspects, and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceuticals valued at ₦7.5 billion. Beyond enforcement, the Unit recovered ₦419,202,458.85 from underpaid import duties through meticulous document checks and demand notices.

ACG Shuaibu called on officers to remain committed and extend full cooperation to his successor, expressing confidence that the structures he leaves behind will continue to thrive. He thanked his principal officers, patrol leaders, and the media for their support, describing his time at FOU Zone A as fulfilling and impactful.

In his response, Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General and the NCS management team for the confidence reposed in him. He commended ACG Shuaibu for his exemplary leadership, pledging to consolidate the gains already recorded by the outgoing administration.

Comptroller Aliyu assured that he would uphold the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, focusing on enhanced intelligence-driven enforcement, strict discipline, strong stakeholder collaboration, and improved welfare for officers. Specifically, he will align with the Comptroller-General's goals of modernizing customs processes, strengthening anti-smuggling efforts, improving trade facilitation, and building capacity.

He highlighted the strategic importance of FOU Zone A as a frontline enforcement formation responsible for suppressing smuggling and safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests. He emphasised that professionalism, accountability, and ethics would remain non-negotiable under his command, urging officers to uphold the core values of the Service.

According to him, operational activities will revolve around change management, compliance management, and reputational management—three pillars he considers essential for sustainable progress. Comptroller Aliyu also acknowledged the vital role of the media and pledged open, responsible engagement to ensure accurate dissemination of information.

Wole Soyinka, Nobel laureate, has criticised what he described as the excessive deployment of security personnel around the family of President Bola Tinubu, saying it reflects poorly on Nigeria’s priorities and security architecture.

Chih-Tang Sah: The Semiconductor Pioneer Whose Ashes Returned to China After Transforming Global Chip Technology

The ashes of semiconductor pioneer Chih-Tang Sah (Sa Zhitang) — a legendary figure whose innovations power nearly all modern electronic devices — have been moved from the United States to Fujian, China, his ancestral home, for burial beside his late wife.

Sah, celebrated as one of the foundational minds of microelectronics, co-developed the CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) transistor architecture with collaborator Frank Wanlass. Their breakthrough paved the way for low-power, high-efficiency integrated circuits, forming the backbone of the global semiconductor industry.

According to High-Frequency Integrated Circuits by University of Toronto professor Sorin Voinigescu, CMOS technology accounted for about 99% of all semiconductor chips manufactured worldwide by 2011, underscoring Sah’s lasting impact on modern electronics.

Despite decades abroad, those close to him said Sah “kept his homeland in his heart,” a sentiment reflected in his final return to China.

#TechnologyNews #SemiconductorIndustry #CMOS #TechPioneers