By Our Correspondent

The rescue of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, stands as a remarkable example of intelligence-led policing, operational discipline, and professional coordination by the Nigeria Police Force.

The nightmare began on the morning of June 3, 2026, when armed kidnappers intercepted Mrs. John-Paul’s vehicle while she was taking her children to school in Ibadan. The brazen abduction sent shockwaves across Oyo State and beyond, triggering widespread concern and an immediate response from security agencies.

What followed was a textbook demonstration of modern policing.

Immediately after the incident was reported, the Oyo State Police Command activated its tactical response mechanisms. Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, the Divisional Police Officer of the Challenge Division and specialized tactical units swiftly moved into action. Investigators secured the crime scene, recovered the victims’ vehicle, and commenced intensive intelligence gathering.

Rather than resorting to rash action, the police adopted a patient and methodical strategy. Intelligence officers painstakingly tracked leads, analyzed information from multiple sources, and monitored the movements of the criminal gang. Every available resource was deployed to ensure that the victims would be rescued alive while minimizing risks to them.

The breakthrough came when police operatives successfully identified the kidnappers’ hideout.

With the location confirmed, a coordinated rescue operation was launched. Security operatives closed in on the criminals with precision and speed, applying tactical pressure from multiple directions. Faced with the advancing police teams and realizing that their escape routes had been compromised, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled the scene. The operation achieved its primary objective: the safe recovery of all three victims without reported injury.

According to security sources, the rescue was the product of sustained intelligence gathering and careful operational planning. The swift movement of the rescue teams denied the criminals the opportunity to relocate their captives or engage security personnel in a prolonged confrontation.

Once secured, Mrs. John-Paul and her twin sons were immediately placed under police protection and taken for medical evaluation and psychological support. The operation reflected not only tactical competence but also a commendable concern for the welfare of the rescued victims.

For many observers, the rescue demonstrates the growing importance of intelligence-driven security operations in combating kidnapping and organized crime. Instead of relying solely on force, the operation showcased the value of surveillance, information gathering, inter-unit coordination, and disciplined execution.

While efforts continue to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects, the successful rescue of Mrs. Olaide John-Paul and her twin sons will be remembered as a significant operational success. It offers reassurance that with professionalism, determination, and effective intelligence work, security agencies can strike decisive blows against criminal networks and return kidnapped victims safely to their families.

In the end, it was not merely a rescue; it was a powerful display of courage, strategy, and professionalism by officers committed to their sworn duty of protecting lives and safeguarding communities.

A Call for Sustained Professionalism

While commending the Nigeria Police Force and the Oyo State Police Command for this successful operation, it is important to urge the security agencies not to relent in their efforts to rid the country of kidnappers and other violent criminals.

The intelligence-driven strategy, patience, coordination, and professionalism that led to the safe rescue of Mrs. Olaide John-Paul and her twin sons should serve as a model for future anti-kidnapping operations. The operation demonstrated that effective intelligence gathering, meticulous planning, and precision execution can produce positive outcomes while safeguarding the lives of victims.

As Nigerians celebrate this success, many citizens are hopeful that similar tactics and operational excellence will be deployed to secure the freedom of the 22 schoolchildren and their teachers reportedly abducted near Ogbomoso some weeks ago. Their families continue to live in anguish and uncertainty, praying daily for their safe return.

The successful rescue in Ibadan offers hope that with sustained intelligence efforts, inter-agency collaboration, technological surveillance, and relentless pursuit of criminal networks, more kidnapped victims can be reunited with their loved ones without harm.

The Police deserve commendation for proving that professionalism and strategic policing remain potent weapons against criminality. At the same time, every successful rescue raises public expectations that the same determination, expertise, and commitment will be brought to bear in ongoing cases across Oyo State and the nation.

For the families of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers, the rescue of Adelabu’s sister and her sons is more than a security success story—it is a beacon of hope. Nigerians join them in praying that, sooner rather than later, they too will experience the joy of welcoming their loved ones home safely.

The nation salutes the gallant officers who participated in the Ibadan operation and encourages them to press on until every kidnap victim is accounted for and every criminal responsible is brought to justice. Through such professionalism, courage, and intelligence-led policing, public confidence in the security agencies will continue to grow.

The post Breaking: Professionalism on Display – How Police Set Free Adelabu’s Sister and Her Twin Children appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

As Nigerians begin a new day, several major developments across politics, security, the economy, and public affairs continue to dominate national conversations. Here are ten key stories shaping the country’s headlines this Thursday.

1. Senate Demands Immediate Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren
The Senate has strongly condemned the recent abduction of pupils, teachers, and a toddler in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Lawmakers described the incident as a direct attack on the nation’s future and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.

2. Owo Church Attack Convicts Sentenced to Death
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging over their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which occurred on June 5, 2022. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment after finding the defendants guilty of terrorism-related offences.

3. Former Minister Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons Kidnapped
Gunmen have reportedly kidnapped the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin children in Ibadan. The incident occurred in the Challenge area of the Oyo State capital, sparking renewed concerns over insecurity in the region.

4. Fresh Violence Claims Lives in Taraba Communities
Residents of Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State are mourning following renewed attacks by suspected armed militias. Reports indicate that several people have lost their lives, with the violence beginning after gunmen ambushed youths returning from a football viewing centre.

5. Five Church Members Die in Captivity in Kwara
Tragedy struck members of an ECWA Church in Omugo, Kwara State, after five worshippers abducted during an earlier attack reportedly died while in captivity. The development was disclosed by the church leadership, leaving the congregation devastated.

6. Naira Records Mixed Performance Against Dollar
Nigeria’s currency experienced mixed fortunes on Wednesday. While the naira weakened in the parallel market, trading at N1,398 per dollar, it recorded gains in the official foreign exchange market where it appreciated to N1,360 against the dollar.

7. Oyo Assembly Rejects Negotiations With Bandits
The Oyo State House of Assembly has opposed calls for negotiations with kidnappers responsible for the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. Lawmakers instead called for stronger rescue operations and improved security measures.

8. Peter Obi Appeals for Unity Within NDC
Presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged contestants who participated in the Nigeria Democratic Congress primary elections to accept the outcomes and work together for the party’s growth. He made the appeal during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja.

9. Police Arrest 17 Suspected Cultists in Abia
The Abia State Police Command has announced the arrest of 17 suspected cult members. Commissioner of Police Danladi Isa warned that the state would not tolerate cultism or any criminal activities, stressing the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

10. Three Former Osun Lawmakers Dump APC
Three prominent members of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State have resigned from the party. The former lawmakers — Lekan Oyediran, Aleem Bakare, and Folorunso Oladoyin — submitted separate resignation letters to their respective local government party officials.

These developments continue to shape public discourse across Nigeria as citizens closely monitor security challenges, political realignments, and economic trends affecting the nation.

The post Nigerian Newspapers Review: Top 10 Headlines Making Waves This Thursday appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Governor of Oyo State has disclosed that more than 200 operatives of the state-owned security outfit, , have lost their lives while battling criminal activities across the state.

Makinde made the revelation during a visit to families of victims abducted from three schools in the Oriire area of Ogbomoso on May 15. The governor expressed concern over the worsening security situation and called for collective efforts to tackle the challenge.

According to him, insecurity should not be politicised, stressing that all levels of government and citizens must work together to secure the release of the kidnapped students and teachers.

“This is not the time to engage in blame games. What is important now is for everyone to unite and ensure that our children and their teachers return safely,” the governor said.

He assured affected families that his administration would continue to deploy every available resource to rescue the victims and bring those responsible to justice.

Makinde also paid tribute to security personnel who have died in the line of duty, particularly members of Amotekun, noting that many of their sacrifices often go unnoticed by the public.

“For the Amotekun corps, we have lost more than 200 operatives. Many went out on security operations and never returned. We pray for an end to the bloodshed and violence affecting our state and the nation,” he stated.

The governor acknowledged public concerns over insecurity and government policies, including restrictions placed on commercial motorcycle operations in some areas. However, he maintained that security agencies and local security outfits remain committed to combating kidnapping, banditry and communal conflicts.

Speaking at a political gathering in Ibadan earlier, Makinde renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that Amotekun was created because repeated demands for decentralised policing had not been granted.

“We advocated for state police, but since that was not approved, we established Amotekun to strengthen local security,” he said.

He urged the Federal Government to accelerate reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s security architecture, insisting that stronger community-based policing structures are needed to address emerging threats effectively.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property while working closely with security agencies to restore peace and safety across Oyo State.

This version is rewritten in a newspaper style suitable for publication and credited to Kolawole Omotola Olaide.

The post Oyo School Abduction: Over 200 Amotekun Operatives Killed Fighting Insecurity – Makinde appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Speculation Grows as Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa Emerges Likely Replacement

Nigeria’s already strained security landscape entered a new phase of uncertainty on Monday following the sudden resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, on what the presidency described as “health grounds.” But beyond the official explanation, political analysts, security insiders and diplomatic observers believe the development signals a deeper recalibration of President Bola Tinubu’s security strategy.

Badaru’s departure comes at a particularly sensitive moment — one marked by spikes in kidnappings, bandit attacks, rural terrorism, highway ambushes and soft-target assaults, all of which recently compelled the President to declare a nationwide security emergency.

A Minister Under Pressure

While Badaru, a former two-term governor of Jigawa State, has repeatedly insisted on his commitment to reform the armed forces, his tenure faced persistent public criticism. Many questioned whether a politician without a military background was the right figure to lead Nigeria’s most critical ministry at a time of escalating threats.

For months, security commentators argued that Nigeria required a battle-tested, strategic military mind at the helm — someone capable of taking immediate, decisive operational measures.

Badaru’s resignation — effective immediately according to his December 1 letter — appears to widen the space for such a shift.

Signs of Bigger Movements in the Security Sector

Shortly before the resignation was confirmed, President Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), who had himself retired barely five weeks earlier.

Musa arrived at the Villa around 7:03 p.m., according to State House correspondents, sparking intense discussion about a major shake-up at the Ministry of Defence.

Though the presidency has not yet disclosed the purpose of the meeting, top-level security sources interpret the timing as far from coincidental. With the President expected to submit a nominee to the Senate this week, Musa — a respected military strategist with operational experience against Boko Haram and ISWAP — has emerged as the strongest contender.

Why Tinubu Might Shift to a Military-Oriented Defence Minister

Nigeria’s worsening security crisis has fueled the argument that the Ministry of Defence should, once again, be led by a seasoned military officer rather than a politician.

Security experts say the President may be considering several factors:

1. Operational Urgency: Nigeria needs immediate results, particularly in the Northwest, North-Central and South-East, where security threats have become chronic.

2. Chain-of-Command Efficiency: A military minister could restore discipline, speed and clearer communication between Service Chiefs and the political leadership.

3. Public Confidence: Many Nigerians believe a uniformed leader could better grasp tactical realities and inspire confidence at a time when citizens feel anxious.

4. Strategic Continuity: Musa, having just completed a tenure as CDS, understands both the successes and shortfalls of current operations.

Political Calculations Behind the Scenes

There is speculation that Badaru was “eased out” rather than voluntarily stepping down — a claim neither the presidency nor the former minister has addressed. What is clear, however, is that his exit removes a major political figure from the nation’s security command structure, clearing the path for a more technocratic, military-oriented leadership.

A senior political adviser, who asked not to be named, told The Lagosian:

“The President is under enormous pressure. The public wants results. Investors want stability. State governors want immediate intervention. A military-oriented defence minister is almost inevitable.”

A Nation Watching Closely

With criminal networks expanding, terror franchises adapting and rural communities on edge, the next Minister of Defence will inherit both a policy challenge and a national emotional burden. The President’s choice may prove pivotal in determining whether Nigeria’s security situation stabilizes or spirals.

Badaru’s departure, regardless of the official explanation, has opened a new chapter in the Tinubu administration’s handling of insecurity — one that Nigerians will scrutinize closely in the coming days.

All eyes now turn to the Senate, where the President’s nominee — widely expected to be General Christopher Musa (rtd.) — may soon determine the direction of Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

What Went Wrong Under Badaru?

A brief autopsy of a troubled tenure

When Badaru Abubakar was appointed Defence Minister in August 2023, many Nigerians were skeptical, but hopeful. A former governor with a reputation for administrative efficiency, he was expected to bring political discipline to the Ministry of Defence and improve coordination across Nigeria’s sprawling security apparatus.

Instead, his tenure became defined by four major challenges:

1. Lack of Military Background

At a time when Nigeria was dealing with hybrid warfare — terrorism, banditry, insurgency and rural militancy — critics argued that Badaru lacked the specialized operational understanding to provide firm strategic direction.

2. Spikes in National Insecurity

Despite ongoing operations, new waves of kidnappings, mass abductions, bandit raids, and targeted killings swept across the North and Middle Belt. Critics said the Ministry failed to project authority and urgency.

3. Public Pressure and Political Fatigue

Badaru became a lightning rod for criticism. Many governors and security analysts quietly pushed for a change. The President’s eventual imposition of a national security emergency amplified calls for a more combat-experienced leader.

Badaru’s resignation on “health grounds” may be accurate — but politically, it also marks the end of a tenure that never found its footing in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving security terrain.

Who Is Gen. Christopher Musa?

The soldier who may become Nigeria’s next Defence Minister

If speculation proves accurate, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.) could soon return to the apex of Nigeria’s defence architecture — this time as Minister of Defence.

Here’s what makes him a frontrunner:

Battlefield Experience

Musa is best known for leading Operation Hadin Kai, the major counterterrorism mission against Boko Haram and ISWAP. His leadership was credited with degrading several insurgent enclaves and reclaiming territory in the Northeast.

Recent Chief of Defence Staff (2023–2025)

As CDS, Musa oversaw multi-theatre operations nationwide, including anti-banditry missions in the Northwest, anti-kidnapping initiatives in the North-Central, and insurgency suppression efforts in the Southeast.

Reputation for Discipline

Within the military, he is regarded as a soldier’s soldier — tough, direct, and uncompromising. His retirement in October 2025 was widely described as premature, fueling belief that he may be repositioned for a political–military role.

Close Observers Believe: He Understands the Urgency

Having just supervised Nigeria’s war fronts, Musa’s learning curve would be minimal. He would assume office with a clear, updated understanding of:

1. what is working,
2. what is failing, and
3. where reforms must begin immediately.

This makes him an appealing choice for a President under pressure to deliver quick, visible security results.

How Tinubu’s Security Emergency Could Reshape Nigeria in 2026

New policies, new expectations, new fears

President Tinubu’s declaration of a nationwide security emergency in late 2025 signalled a watershed moment in Nigeria’s fight against violent crime. With a new Defence Minister imminent, 2026 could usher in deep structural changes.

1. Massive Security Recruitment

The plan to hire 20,000 new police officers, along with forest guards and special tactical units, could significantly increase boots on the ground — especially in rural communities.

2. Fortification of Soft Targets

Churches, mosques, schools and marketplaces are expected to see heightened security presence and upgraded surveillance. A national Safe Schools Programme may be revived.

3. Possible Reorganization of Military Commands

Analysts predict the creation of new theatre commands or operational zones, especially in the Middle Belt and Southeast where criminal networks have adapted faster than expected.

4. Increased Defence Spending

Nigeria may channel more funds into drones, surveillance technology, armoured personnel carriers, and intelligence systems — shifting away from manpower-heavy methods.

5. Stronger Civil–Military Coordination

Tinubu’s choice for Defence Minister will determine whether the next phase of reforms thrives or stalls. A military-oriented minister is expected to bridge the gap between political directives and battlefield realities.

6. Rising Public Expectations

With the emergency declared and a change of leadership underway, Nigerians will expect rapid improvements. If new strategies fail to yield results, public trust could erode.

The post SECURITY EMERGENCY: Shake-Up at the Top: Badaru’s Sudden Resignation Reshapes Nigeria’s Security Architecture appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

According to reports, Ogbonna was apprehended after a tip-off, and a video confession has been released by a reputable media house.

The police are investigating the motive behind Ogbonna’s actions, which have sparked concerns about food safety and public health.

While some social media users have linked the incident to recent ethnic tensions and online calls for harm, the police have not confirmed any direct connection.

The case is ongoing, and authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

Below is the video of the suspect during interrogation.

The post Poison Saga: Lagos Police Arrest Suspect Selling Poisonous Beans appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Army said, yesterday, that its troops on counter-insurgency operations recorded a significant breakthrough by the dismantling of a gun-running syndicate that specialises in supplying arms and ammunition to terrorist groups operating in the North West.

Troops also apprehended a notorious kidnap syndicate and recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from the suspects.

A statement by the army said: “On August 7, 2024, troops working in coordination with other security agencies arrested a notorious gun-runner, Mallam Yau Ibrahim, in Babinga Kudaru village of Saminaka, Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

“This arrest followed an earlier apprehension of another syndicate member on July 31, 2024, by troops of Operation Safe Haven in Jos.

“Among the items recovered are AK-47 rifle, AK-47 rifle magazine, 1,641 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, and 49 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.

“In a separate operation, while acting on credible intelligence, troops tracked down and arrested Abubakar Shehu, 25 years, in the Ijebu-Ode area of Ogun State.

“Shehu is a member of a kidnap syndicate responsible for the assassination of Alhaji Mairuga Abubakar, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, MACBAN, in Orelope Local Government Area of Oyo State.

“Following preliminary investigation, the suspect led troops to Okoka forest in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state, where they recovered four AK-47 rifles, a locally fabricated pistol, eight magazines, one cartridge, and 110 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.

“In Katsina State, troops laid ambush and neutralised a terrorist at Anguwa Boka in Faskari Local Government Area of the state.

“Items recovered from the terrorists include one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, three rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition, a mobile phone and assorted items.

“The arrest of the notorious gun-runner, Mallam Yau Ibrahim, and the apprehension of the kidnap syndicate, as well as the elimination of a terrorist alongside the recovery of arms and ammunition, are a veritable testament of the NA’s unflinching commitment in safeguarding our nation from the scourge of terrorism and criminality.”

The post Troops Neutralise Terrorists, Nab Gun-runners, Kidnappers appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Nigerian Air Force says the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has destroyed terrorists’ Improvised Explosive Devices factory at Grazah, a location deep in the Mandara Hills in Borno.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Thursday in Abuja.

Gebkwet said that the air interdiction was a sequel to the recent attacks on innocent civilians in the state using IEDs and suicide bombers.

He said air strikes were conducted on August 2, following intelligence which revealed the sighting of a possible IED factory and storage area for other logistics.

According to him, for some time now, this IED factory was suspected to have been relocated, first from Gwoza to Timbuktu Triangle in Sambisa Forest and finally berthing at Grazah in the Mandara Hills.

He said, “Frequent relocation of IED factories has been attributed to the enormous fire power on the terrorists’ enclaves by the combined efforts of the entire security apparatus of the theatre of operation.

“The IED factory location at Grazah had been under surveillance for weeks with various installations observed and activities of armed terrorists in the area found to be consistent with those protecting a strategic location.

“Additionally, two gun trucks were sighted tucked under a large tree near the suspected IED factory.

“These findings thus necessitated the need for an air strike on the location in order to destroy the suspected IED factory and neutralise the terrorists.”

Gabkwet said the targets were acquired and effectively destroyed, adding that the thick cloud of smoke that followed the air strikes confirmed the destruction of the IED factory and the gun trucks.

The post NAF Destroys IED Factory, Neutralises terrorists in Bornu appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday, said there was a decline in crime rates across the country in the past few months due to the strategies deployed by the police.

Specifically, he noted that major crimes dropped to 416 in the last one month, compared to 734 in May and 530 in June.

Egbetokun, who spoke during a meeting with Commissioners of Police in Abuja on Tuesday, commended personnel of the Force for their passion and commitment to the execution of his strategies.

He said, “It is gratifying to note that the strategies deployed and duly executed by our officers and their undiluted passion and commitment have yielded significant results across the length and breadth of our nation. Undoubtedly, the results achieved by our men and officers within the past months have accentuated the stability of the internal security order of the country. This is clearly evident by the steady decline in crime rates over the past few months.

“A review of the monthly major crimes returns table revealed a significantly positive outlook. A drop in the major crimes reported in the last month, which stood at 416, compared with 734 and 530 for May and June, respectively.”

Egbetokun added that in the fight against criminal activities in the last month, the police arrested a total of 1,284 individuals nationwide.

He said, “In addition, we recorded remarkable successes in the fight against criminalities in the last month, manifesting in the arrest of a total of 1,284 suspects nationwide, and the recovery of 284 firearms, 6,702 ammunition rounds, 107 vehicles, and we rescued 97 kidnapped victims.”

The IG also said the special task force on petroleum had arrested some suspects and recovered exhibits from them.

He said, “We have taken steps to reorganise and reposition the IGP Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Corporate to enhance their operations as part of efforts towards combating the menace of oil theft in Nigeria. Meanwhile, the task force recently recorded touching incidents of interceptions of suspected stolen goods and arrests of the perpetrators, as well as seizure of exhibits.

“Most of the cases are already in courts for timely dispensation of justice, and others still undergo investigation. It is imperative for me to mention here that the achievements recorded are the outcome of cooperation and collaboration with members of the public and other security agencies. They are also testaments to your dedication and professionalism.”

The post “Crime rate dropping, internal security improving,” Says IG appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Federal Government is planning to suspend duties, tariffs, and taxes on some essential food items imported through land and sea borders.

It was gathered yesterday that the decision was informed by the need to bring down the cost of food items which have hit the roof, making life unbearable for Nigerians.

Consequently, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, NACCIMA, and Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprises, CPPE, in a swift reaction, lauded the government’s decision, saying it would have a positive impact on inflation.

A source also said the listed food items, which include maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas, would enjoy a 150-day duty-free import window.

The source said the government recognised the fact that the prices of food items have over the past several months increased in all parts of the country, making life difficult for the people.
‘’The affordability crisis in our food security system has been indexed by the data from the National Bureau of Statistics which by the last count, had put food inflation at 40.66%.

‘’We have heard the cries of Nigeria over the prices of food items and condiments, with some now describing tomato as gold and proposing a variety of recipes to prepare soups and dishes with some of the overly priced food items.

‘’What in the past were regarded as common items such as yam, plantain, and potato now command excessively high figures and Nigerians are right to wonder how and why things are the way they are.

‘’As a government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, members of the Federal
Executive Council and, indeed, all other operatives in the MDAs are fully aware of the hardship occasioned by the high cost of food items in our country,’’ the source said.

According to the source, ‘’There is no doubt that food inflation is a direct consequence of a number of factors. Agricultural production activities have been hampered in some parts of the country by a number of factors resulting in the inability of small- holder farmers to contribute optimally to the country’s food basket.

‘’This has opened a new dimension to the food challenge from affordability to availability of sufficient food commodities. As you may recall, earlier in the year, there were a number of interventions by the Federal Government to make food available and to dampen their prices.

‘’Those interventions include: the release of 42,000MT of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Food Reserve, 58,500MT purchase of milled rice from Rice Processors Association of Nigeria and an additional 30,000MT of rice.

‘’Regrettably, prices have continued to escalate, and in some cases these days, food items are becoming unavailable. The government cannot allow this situation to persist. While there are ongoing agricultural initiatives, programmes and projects under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and state governments also have theirs, we must respond to the creeping availability crisis.

‘’As the government continues to encourage agricultural production on a sustainable and profitable basis for farmers, the time lag between cultivation and harvest makes it inevitable for the government to kick-in stop-gap measures that will bring tremendous relief to Nigerians.

‘’For instance, harvest for 2024 wet season farming will not be due until October-November. On the one hand, while the measures aim to alleviate immediate food shortages, we will strengthen domestic production capabilities to enhance long-term food security.’’

Vanguard further gathered that the difficulty caused by the increasing cost of food items informed the reason President Tinubu constituted the Presidential Economic Coordination Council, PECC, in March 2024, under which the Economic Management Team, EMT, recently presented to the President an Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan.

Sources said further that a N2 trillion package was recently approved ‘to be spent on actualizing the Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan of which Agriculture is a key focused sector.
‘’The EMT has been meeting day and night working out the best modalities to achieve the best results for Nigerians.

‘’To ameliorate food inflation in the country caused by affordability and exacerbated by availability, the government has taken a raft of measures to be implemented over the next 180 days: They include a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities; suspension of duties, tariffs and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities (through land and sea borders).

‘’These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat and cowpeas. Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).

‘’I am aware that some good citizens might be concerned about the quality of the would-be imported food commodities as it relates to the trending worries around the genetic composition of food). I am glad to reiterate that the government’s position exemplifies standards that would not compromise the safety of the various food items for consumption.

‘’In addition to the importation by the private sector, the Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. The imported food commodities in their semi-processed state will target supplies to the small-scale processors and millers across the country.

‘’Engage relevant stakeholders to set a Guaranteed Minimum Price, GMP, and mop up surplus assorted food commodities to restock the National Strategic Food Reserve; Continuous ramp-up production for the 2024/2025 farming cycle; sustained support to small-holder farmers in the ongoing wet season farming through existing government initiatives.

‘’Strengthen and accelerate dry season farming across the country; embark on aggressive agricultural mechanization and development to reduce drudgery, drive down the cost of production and boost productivity; collaborate with sub-national to identify irrigable lands and increase land under cultivation.

‘’Work closely with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, to rehabilitate and maintain irrigation facilities under river basin authorities across the federation; development of a strategic engagement for youth and women across the federation for immediate greenhouse cultivation of horticultural crops, such as tomatoes and pepper to increase production volume, stabilize prices, and address food shortages.

‘’Fast-tracking ongoing engagements with the military to rapidly cultivate arable lands, under the Defence Farms Scheme, while encouraging other para-military establishments to put secured available arable lands to cultivation.

‘’The Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee will be
inaugurated on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, with a view to developing and implementing policies that prioritize
livestock development and ensure alignment with the National Livestock Transformation Plan.

‘’Enhancement of Nutrition Security through the promotion of production of fortified food commodities and offer necessary support to scale up the Home Garden Initiative by the Office of The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

‘’Over the next 14 days, in close collaboration with the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit, PFSCU, and the Economic Management Team, EMT, we will convene with the respective agencies to finalize the implementation frameworks.

‘’We will ensure that information is publicly available to facilitate the participation of all relevant stakeholders across the country. The PFSCU will manage a dashboard for Mr. President, providing him with direct visibility into these interventions and ensuring accountability.

‘’The success of the measures aforementioned, is contingent on the cooperation and collaboration of all relevant MDAs and stakeholders. As our nation confronts a critical food security challenge, let me reiterate Mr. President’s unwavering commitment to attaining food security and ensuring that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.

‘’To this end, I can assure all Nigerians, that my team and I, will swiftly and diligently actualize these crucial policies to ensure food security for everyone in the country in the immediate term as we also continue our strategies for long term interventions to address the underlying causes and ensure sustainable and resilient food systems in the country,’’ the source said.

NACCIMA hails FG’s decision
Reacting to the development, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, NACCIMA, Dele Oye, commended the Federal Government’s decision to suspend duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of key food commodities.

Oye said in a statement that the decision represented a significant step towards mitigating the severe food inflation currently impacting Nigerian households.

The NACCIMA President also applauded the 150-day duty-free import window for essential items such as maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas, describing it as a commendable move that would stabilize food prices and provide much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians.

The statement read: “On behalf of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, NACCIMA, we commend the federal government’s decisive action to suspend duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of key food commodities.

“This initiative represents a significant step towards mitigating the severe food inflation currently impacting Nigerian households.

“The 150-day duty-free import window for essential items such as maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas is a commendable move that will likely stabilize food prices and provide much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians.

“By addressing the multiple factors contributing to rising food prices, including infrastructural challenges and market profiteering, this policy demonstrates a comprehensive approach to ensuring food affordability.”

Reiterating the need for stakeholders’ engagement, Oye said: “However, while we applaud these measures, it is imperative that the government immediately engages with stakeholders across the agricultural value chain.

“This engagement is crucial to ensure that Nigeria is not turned into a dumping ground for commodities where we already have reasonable self-sufficiency. Protecting local investments and sustaining the growth of our agricultural sector must remain a priority.

“NACCIMA stands ready to support the government in these efforts, ensuring that the strategic importation of food commodities complements rather than undermines our domestic agricultural production.

‘’Together, we can secure a balanced approach that safeguards both the immediate needs of our citizens and the long-term sustainability of our agricultural economy.”

CPPE reacts
Also reacting last night, the Director-General, Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprise, CPPE, Muda Yusuf, said: ‘’Food inflation, at over 40%, is perhaps the biggest challenge the country is currently faced with, especially from a social perspective.

‘’The implications of surging prices of food are quite scary. It is an emergency situation which demands an emergency response.

‘’It is in this context that I will agree with the decision of government to explore the trade policy option to tackle the problem.

‘’In my view, it is a step in the right direction. This, of course, is without prejudice to current efforts to boost domestic food production.’’

Farmer, ActionAid boss react
More Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have expressed mixed reactions to the Federal Government’s decision to remove tariffs on rice, maize, and others.

Speaking with Vanguard, Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, AAN, Andrew Mamedu, said the tariff removal was needed at this point because there is serious hunger in the land.

Andrew said: “There are implications of the removal of tariffs on maize, rice and others, there is a need to do that. But it is the tip of the iceberg, the price will not crash because you removed the tariff.

“You need to encourage the small scale farmers, address the high cost of transportation, also eliminate the middlemen factor, and the coat of food will reduce.”

Chief Executive Officer, CEO, EA Daniels Farm, Sapele, Delta State, Engr. Daniel Ijeh said: “The removal might benefit people in the short term but local producers should be encouraged, if not, it will affect local farmers because the importation is coming from big farms.

“The farmers in Nigeria should be protected. The future of Nigerians need be put into consideration.

“Government should incentivised local production as the tariff is removed. They should also not allow the importation for too long.”

Also, Philip Jakpor said: “It is important to remove tariff due to hunger in the land and because of flood and insecurity.

“There will be cheaper food, that is what Nigerians need it at this time. But let us see how government will implement it.”

The post FG Declares Rice, Wheat, Beans, Others Duty- Free appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

In a tragic incident today in Ogun State, a devastating gas explosion claimed the lives of a mother and her 7-year-old daughter, leaving the community in mourning. The explosion occurred in a residential area, where the family was reportedly using a gas cylinder for cooking purposes.

According to eyewitnesses, the blast was powerful enough to cause significant damage to the surrounding homes and injure two other individuals who were nearby at the time of the incident. Emergency services rushed to the scene promptly to provide assistance and transport the injured to the hospital for urgent medical attention.

Local authorities have begun an investigation into the exact cause of the explosion, focusing on whether it was due to a gas leak or mishandling of the cylinder. Such incidents underscore the importance of proper gas cylinder maintenance and safety precautions in households.

Neighbors and members of the community have expressed shock and sadness over the loss of the mother and daughter, describing them as a loving and close-knit family. Efforts are underway to support the affected families and provide counseling to those traumatized by the incident.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with household gas usage and the critical need for vigilance in ensuring safety measures are strictly followed. Authorities urge residents to regularly inspect their gas equipment and seek professional assistance if any issues or concerns arise.

As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of two lives and hopes for the swift recovery of those injured in this heartbreaking incident.

The post Gas Explosion Kills Mother and 7-Year-Old Daughter in Ogun State, Leaves Two Others Injured appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.