FG - Nigeria Will Not Bow to Criminal Elements, Moves to Restore Peace in Plateau

The Federal Government has reiterated its resolve to protect lives and property across the country, declaring that Nigeria will not bow to criminal elements or acts of violence as it moves to restore lasting peace in the Plateau.

In a statement signed by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, Rabi'u Ibrahim, said the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known on Tuesday, during a press briefing in Abuja, while addressing the security situation in Plateau State following the recent attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North. “Nigeria will not yield to criminal elements. We will protect our people, and we will prevail,” the Minister stated.

“Nigerians must not allow criminal elements to divide communities. Nigeria’s unity remains strong, and we must all work together to sustain peace and stability across the country,” he added

The Minister expressed deep concern over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Plateau State. He assured Nigerians that security agencies responded swiftly to the attack. According to him, troops under Operation Enduring Peace were immediately deployed, while the military and other security agencies secured the area and launched operations to track down those responsible.

“These swift actions ensured that the situation was quickly contained and prevented further escalation,” said Idris, noting that the response forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security across Plateau state and the wider North-Central region.

Idris explained that the Federal Government has sustained military and intelligence-led operations in vulnerable communities, supported by increased surveillance, troop deployments, and joint patrols involving the military and the police. He added that these measures are aimed at preventing further attacks and maintaining stability.

Idris also assured that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to addressing security challenges through targeted operations and strategic coordination among security agencies. He disclosed that the President has already met with top security and intelligence chiefs to review the situation and take further decisive steps.

He also noted that the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has been invited for further consultations to strengthen collaboration and ensure a coordinated response towards lasting peace.

The Minister acknowledged steps taken by the Plateau State Government, including the imposition of a 48-hour curfew in Jos North to stabilise the situation and support ongoing operations. He stressed that federal and state authorities are working closely to prevent reprisals, restore calm, and facilitate investigations.

While describing the attack as deeply regrettable, Idris stated that it does not represent a breakdown of national security, but a criminal act in a conflict-prone area that is being actively addressed. He assured Nigerians that those responsible will be brought to justice. “There will be no safe haven for criminal elements anywhere in Nigeria,” he said.

The Minister reassured Nigerians that the situation in Plateau State is under control and urged Nigerians to remain calm and law-abiding. He also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, noting that such actions could worsen tensions and undermine security efforts.

The Federal Government, he said, will continue to strengthen intelligence gathering, operational readiness, and inter-agency coordination to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure lasting peace nationwide.

On Donald Trump Decision Against Nigeria - Sa'idu Ahmad Dukuwa

Introduction

At last, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, has taken the decision he had long planned against Nigeria, following complaints by some Nigerian Christians who alleged that they were victims of religious persecution in the country.

Trump had once placed a similar sanction on Nigeria during his first term, but after he lost the election to Joe Biden, Biden reversed that “rash and unfair” decision.

This new ruling, however, demands that Nigeria take certain actions in line with America’s interests — or face a series of sanctions.

For example, these “American interests” could include the following:

1. Any Nigerian state practicing Sharia Law must abolish it.

2. Any law that prohibits blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) must be repealed.

3. Any location where Christians wish to build a church must grant them permission to do so.

4. Anything that Christians claim makes them “uncomfortable” in the country — such as businesses involving halal trade — must be stopped.

5. All businesses Christians desire, such as alcohol trade, must be freely allowed across the nation.

These are just examples of the complaints made by some Christian groups to the United States, which may also include political and economic demands.

This action by Trump mirrors what America once did to Iraq under Saddam Hussein — accusing the country of possessing weapons of mass destruction, just to justify an invasion.

If true justice were the goal, then both sides — the accusers and the Nigerian authorities — should have been listened to, including Muslim organizations that provided counter-evidence.

Even among Christians, many reasonable voices have spoken against these exaggerated claims, yet their words are ignored. Clearly, a plan against Nigeria had already been set in motion.

So, what is left for the Nigerian government and its citizens to do?

Here is my opinion:

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WHAT THE NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT SHOULD DO

1. Use diplomatic channels to inform the Trump administration that the situation is being misrepresented. Even if America remains adamant, the rest of the sensible world will know that any step America takes against Nigeria on this basis is pure injustice, and that knowledge itself will have benefits.

2. Reduce dependence on the United States in key areas such as trade, education, and healthcare. Nigeria should instead strengthen ties with other countries like Russia, China, and Turkey.

3. Unite Nigerians — both Muslims and Christians who do not share this divisive mindset — to resist and expose any malicious plots against the nation.

--

WHAT THE NIGERIAN PEOPLE SHOULD DO

1. All Nigerians — Muslims and Christians alike — should begin to reduce their personal and travel ties with the United States, especially visa applications, as it may no longer be easy to obtain them.

2. Those who hold large amounts of US dollars should consider converting their funds into other global currencies.

3. Muslims with good relationships with Christians should not let this tension destroy their friendships — and vice versa. Let unity prevail.

4. Muslims must not lose hope or courage. They should realize that they have no powerful ally. Non-Muslims are the ones with global backing. The Jews can commit atrocities against Muslims and America will support them. In India, Muslims are being killed — America is silent. In China, Muslims face persecution — America is silent.

In Nigeria, there is no single town where Muslims have chased out Christians, but in Tafawa Balewa, Christians expelled Muslims and took over the town. Terrorists who kill indiscriminately in Nigeria have taken more Muslim lives than Christian ones — yet Trump publicly declared that only Christian lives matter.

Still, Muslims can take comfort in one fact: Islam is spreading fast in both America and Europe. Perhaps, one day, when Islam gains ground there, justice and fairness will finally return to the world — because today’s problem is rooted in the injustice that Western powers built the world upon.

5. Nigerian Christians themselves need to wake up to the truth — that the Western world does not truly care about Christianity, only about controlling resources and power.

If they really cared about Christian lives, they wouldn’t have ignored what’s happening in Congo — a country with one of the largest Christian populations — where Christians kill one another. The same goes for South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Rwanda.

There are countless examples of Christian nations engulfed in crisis. And when Nigerian Christians think of running to the US for refuge, they will realize that America will not take them in. Therefore, it’s wiser to live peacefully with their Muslim brothers and sisters here in Nigeria.

6. Finally, it is the duty of all believers to constantly pray for Nigeria — that God protects it from every form of harm and evil.

Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you all.

Dr. Saidu Ahmad Dukawa

Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

3 November 2025

Terror in the Mosques: A Chronicle of Attacks on Muslim Worshippers in Nigeria

Despite global outrage over attacks on Christians, PRNigeria reports a disturbing pattern of mosque-targeted violence against Muslims in Nigeria has received far less attention—even as hundreds have been killed in places of worship. 

This report highlights the scale of atrocities from 2009 to 2025, demanding equal global condemnation.

While former U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened military action against Nigeria over alleged “Christian genocide”, the reality on the ground reveals a broader and more complex crisis. Muslim communities, particularly in northern Nigeria, have suffered relentless attacks inside mosques and during religious gatherings—often at the hands of the same terrorist groups blamed for Christian-targeted violence.

From 2013 to 2025, Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed bandits have repeatedly targeted Muslim worshippers during sacred moments of prayer. Below is a timeline of some of the most heinous incidents:

Major Attacks on Mosques and Muslim Gatherings

- August 11, 2013 – Konduga, Borno: Boko Haram gunmen massacred 44–46 worshippers during Fajr prayers at the Central Mosque. Over 30 were injured in what was the group’s first large-scale mosque attack.

- November 3–4, 2014 – Potiskum, Yobe: A suicide bomber targeted a Shia Ashura procession, killing 15 and injuring 50.

- November 28, 2014 – Kano City: Triple bomb blasts and gunfire at the Central Mosque during Friday prayers killed at least 81 (witnesses say over 200) and injured 100+.

- July 17, 2015 – Damaturu, Yobe: Suicide bombers, including a 10-year-old girl, attacked Eid al-Fitr prayers, killing up to 50.

- October 15, 2015 – Maiduguri, Borno: Twin suicide bombings during evening prayers killed 42.

- November 27, 2015 – Dakasoye, Kano: A suicide bomber struck a Shia Arba’een procession, killing 21.

- March 16, 2016 – Molai-Umarari, Borno: Two female bombers killed 24 worshippers during dawn prayers.

- January 16, 2017 – Maiduguri: A 12-year-old girl bombed a university mosque, killing 4 and injuring 15.

- November 21, 2017 – Mubi, Adamawa: A teenage bomber killed 50 in the Madina Mosque.

- May 1, 2018 – Mubi: Twin mosque bombings killed 27 and injured 56.

- July 23, 2018 – Konduga: A suicide bomber killed 11 during early morning prayers.

- July 27, 2019 – Nganzai, Borno: Boko Haram ambushed mourners, killing 65.

- October 25, 2021 – Mazakuka, Niger: Bandits killed 18 worshippers and the imam during Fajr prayers.

- October 5, 2021 – Yasore, Katsina: Bandits shot 10 worshippers during Maghrib prayers.

- November 5, 2023 – Funtua, Katsina: Armed men attacked a Maulud celebration, killing 20 and abducting others.

- August 19, 2025 – Unguwan Mantau, Katsina: Bandits killed 27 during dawn prayers.

- February & June 2025 – Zamfara & Borno: Bandits kidnapped an imam and 30 others; ISWAP launched fresh attacks.

Trump’s threat to invade Nigeria over Christian killingshas sparked debate about selective international concern. While Christian communities have undeniably suffered, Muslim worshippers have also been systematically targeted in their sacred spaces. The Nigerian government insists that violence affects all faiths and regions.

PRNigeria condemn all forms of religious violence—against Christians, Muslims, and others. Every life lost in a house of worship is a tragedy that demands justice, not selective empathy.

Let the world speak with one voice: No faith deserves to be hunted in prayer.

By PRNigeria

Dr. Osetoba Commends Governor for reviving sports in the state as Nigeria hits 65

The Technical Advisor to the Governor of Ekiti State on Sports Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, has praised the Governor Oyebanji on Nigeria's 65th Independence Day for his giant strides towards sports in the state.

Dr. Olusola Osetoba described Governor Biodun Oyebanji as a beckon of hope and restoration for sports in the State. She gave her verdict on Wednesday while speaking with newsmen.

Dr. Olusola Osetoba said sports was on the verge of collapsing in the state before Governor Oyebanji's assumption into office, emphasizing that the revival taking place in Ekiti State could not have been possible without his resolut support.

She further emphasized that prior to his assumption the was mocked and looked down upon by other states of the Federation due to its poor sporting facilities and events coupled with untrained athletes representing the state at national sporting events.

Dr. Osetoba who led historic Team Ekiti to the recently concluded 9th National Youth Games, was very elated by the quality of support the team received from the Governor, from transportation, to feeding and accommodation.

Ekiti State which was widely known for parading jalopies and poorly kitted athletes, competed in Asaba, the Delta State capital with brand new busses, kits and well trained, home-based athletes.

These Dr. Osetoba said was the reason behind Ekiti's outstanding performance in basketball at the Games, as they defeated slamming and drinking giants - Lagos in the final. 

Dr. Osetoba the founder of Osetoba Marathon, further stressed that with concentrated effort, Ekiti State will become a force to reckon with across Nigeria.

The ‎ recently concluded ‎Osetoba Marathon brought together 80 athletes across Emure-ekiti LGA, nurturing the love for the sport in Ekiti.

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‎The two-day event began with orientation, a route tour and athlete screening. The main 10-kilometer race took place on Day 2, starting and finishing at the Elemure’s palace.

‎

‎Before the race, His Royal Majesty, the Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, joined chiefs and dignitaries in a novelty run. He praised the initiative and urged more attention to the town's sports development.

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‎Ozigi Isaac, wearing number 20, finished first, followed by Emmanuel Ojo and John Monday. Abegunde Abiola was the first female finisher.

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‎The winner received ₦250,000, with ₦150,000 for second place and ₦100,000 for third. 

The first female finisher also received ₦100,000. 

Competitors placed fourth through 16th shared prizes ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦20,000. 

Oluwaseyifunmi Phones provided power banks to podium finishers and the women’s winner.

‎

‎Isaac, who previously focused on football, said the race opened a new path for him. 

“This race has redirected my path. If I channel the same zeal I have for football into athletics, the horizon is bright,” he said, commending organizers.

‎

‎Dr. Olusola Osetoba, who sponsored the marathon, said it was her way of giving back to her hometown while supporting Gov. Biodun Oyebanji’s grassroots sports agenda.

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‎“This is not a one-off event,” Osetoba said. “It is a seed that will strengthen the future of sports in Ekiti.”

‎

She called on corporate bodies and well meaning individuals to throw their weight behind the Sports in Ekiti State.

FENAC Secure Solutions Partners South African Firm to Revolutionize Smart Living in Nigeria

FENAC Secure Solutions, a leading provider of advanced home automation systems in West Africa, has entered into a strategic partnership with NICE Automation Systems, a South African-based manufacturer, to transform smart living and security solutions in Nigeria.

The collaboration is aimed at scaling up the deployment of intelligent gate and door automation technologies across homes and commercial properties in the country, offering improved safety, convenience, and power-efficiency.

Speaking on the development, JaQues Van Niekerk, a representative of NICE Automation Systems, described the partnership with FENAC as a pivotal step in expanding smart infrastructure in the region.

> “The collaboration between NICE and FENAC Secure Solutions has already laid the groundwork for innovation across West Africa,” Van Niekerk said. “Now, we're looking to deepen our impact in Nigeria by leveraging FENAC’s local expertise and customer reach.”

He emphasized that NICE products are designed specifically for the African environment, with unique features that address the continent’s infrastructural realities.

> “We understand the challenges many African countries face—especially when it comes to power supply,” he explained. “Our gate motors can run even without batteries, which is a major advantage in areas with frequent power outages.”

Van Niekerk added that NICE is currently the only manufacturer using lithium batteries in its gate motors, offering superior performance and longevity compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

> “Lithium batteries are more durable, require less maintenance, and provide a longer service life—ultimately reducing costs for users,” he said.

 _Boosting Nigeria’s Smart Housing Landscape_ 

Through its partnership with NICE, FENAC is positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s smart property space, offering cutting-edge security automation that aligns with modern housing needs.

Chuka Okafor, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FENAC Secure Solutions said the collaboration with NICE will accelerate the adoption of technology-driven solutions that support both residential and commercial development in urban and suburban communities.

The integration of NICE’s world-class technology through FENAC’s local network is also expected to improve after-sales support and system maintenance—areas often overlooked in imported automation systems.

While FENAC recently joined forces with Nigerian proptech company Px PropertyHub to expand its market footprint, the company says its primary focus remains on delivering secure, smart, and sustainable living experiences to Nigerian consumers.

Industry experts have hailed the development as timely, especially as Nigeria’s real estate sector shifts toward tech-enabled solutions for safer and more efficient living.

As part of the partnership agreement between FENAC Secure Solutions and NICE Automation Systems, no fewer than 20 technicians were trained and awarded with certificates on operational procedures by South African technology experts during a session held in Lagos.

Chess For Social Impact celebrates International Chess Day with Fundraiser for Nigeria's chess prodigy Olisa

To mark International Chess Day, Chess for Social Impact, a flagship of Mendlife Global Foundation, on Sunday, hosted the Abuja Elite Chess Meetup, blending competition with a fundraiser for Nigeria’s rising chess star, Tennyson Olisa.

The event, held at Cafe One, Sterling Bank Plaza, Abuja brought together top players, enthusiasts, and philanthropists to support chess as a tool for unity and empowerment.

This year’s theme, “Every Move Counts,” reflected the game’s strategy and the importance of each step in a young athlete’s journey.

Founder Oto-obong Mendie (Cassandra) said the event was more than a tournament; it was about transformation through chess.

“We are here to celebrate chess as a force for change. This year, our focus is on helping Tennyson Olisa, who’s making Nigeria proud,” she said.

Tennyson needs support for his journey to the FIDE Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan and the World Cup in India — a trip requiring around ₦54 million in total.

The costs include visa travel to Egypt, flights, coaching, training, media, and hospitality. Mendie said Nigeria must give him a strong presence globally.

Tennyson, 22, from Delta State, recently qualified for the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss but faces serious financial hurdles.

“His journey highlights the struggles gifted Nigerian players face. He has the talent and heart — now he needs support,” Mendie added.

His elder brother and manager, Engr. Anthony Olisa, said the event aimed to give Tennyson greater visibility and attract sponsors.

Tennyson began playing chess at 13. His family supported him early, recognizing his talent and potential to achieve greatness.

“He’s doing amazing things for Nigeria and is now among Africa’s best. He’ll represent us globally,” Anthony said.

He added, “This event helps us showcase him and, by God’s grace, find more sponsors for his journey.”

Anthony appealed to sponsors to support Tennyson’s dreams, saying he urgently needs opportunities to grow.

The Nigeria Chess Federation’s Vice President, Adeyinka Adewole, said they fully back Tennyson and believe in his abilities.

“This will be his first major international outing. It’s a dream come true for any young player,” Adewole said.

Adewole added that the federation, the National Sports Commission, and Nigerians are united behind Tennyson’s mission.

Mr. Ezekiel Bankole Ipinlaiye the managing director of Prog Loyd Realtors Limited also urged the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, along with private and corporate sponsors, philanthropists, and well-meaning Nigerians, to support the chess prodigy.

He noted that Tennyson, a proud indigene of Delta State, has won numerous medals for the state and is poised to bring honour and pride to Nigeria on the global stage.

The Abuja event included a blitz tournament, exhibition match, and mentorship session where Tennyson played seven elite players simultaneously.

A silent auction of chess-themed artwork also raised money for his trip, coaching, and accommodation.

Tennyson, visibly emotional, thanked supporters. “Representing Nigeria has always been my dream. I’ll give my all,” he said.

Dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, and former champions attended, pledging their support for the young chess star.

The foundation raised over ₦5 million during the event — nearly halfway to the ₦54 million target.

International Chess Day, celebrated on July 20, was established by FIDE to promote chess and its educational value.

In Nigeria, the day is gaining traction, with more grassroots and youth programs emerging nationwide.

As the event ended, Mendie encouraged Nigerians to back young talents across fields.

“Every move counts — on the board and in life. Together, we can lift our youth to greatness,” she said.

Chess for Social Impact plans to continue fundraising through online campaigns and partnerships in the coming weeks.

Nigerians at home and abroad are urged to support Tennyson as he prepares for a global stage.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to the top three winners of the tournament, along with awards to sponsors and patrons of the foundation.

Mr. Victor Okoye, Vice Chairman of FCT SWAN and an Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria, one of the awardees, was honoured with a Patron of Chess for Social Impact award in recognition of his significant contributions to promoting the foundation's activities in the media.

Soaring Higher: A Call for Customer-Centric Aviation in Nigeria- By Saleh Adamu Kwaru CNA, FCCSA (USA)

By Saleh Adamu Kwaru CNA, FCCSA (USA)

Although the aviation industry in Nigeria is making strides, there remains a crucial need to tighten regulations and ensure that sanctions are enforced where necessary. The lack of due respect for customers has significantly contributed to the observed shortcomings.

This issue manifests in various ways, such as flight delays, inadequate communication, and poor handling of passenger concerns. Every frequent Nigerian passenger has witnessed uncalled delays resulting in missed connecting flights or business engagements. When customers feel undervalued, it impacts their overall experience and perception of the service.

A customer-first approach is essential for the aviation industry to thrive. Airlines must prioritize the needs and expectations of passengers by ensuring timely departures and arrivals, providing clear and accurate information, and addressing complaints promptly and effectively. Investing in customer service training for airline staff can also enhance interactions and lead to more positive experiences for travelers.

Moreover, stronger regulatory frameworks and consistent enforcement of standards are necessary to maintain the momentum of improvement. Ensuring that airlines adhere to operational guidelines, safety protocols, and service quality benchmarks is crucial. When these elements are in place, passengers are likely to experience fewer delays, better customer service, and a more reliable travel experience overall.

Implementing feedback mechanisms where customers can report their experiences and ensuring timely resolution of complaints will also help in elevating the industry's reputation. Transparency in operations and consistent follow-through on promises can rebuild trust and enhance the reputation of the industry.

Ultimately, in valuing and respecting customers rights and obligations, the Nigerian aviation industry can address its shortcomings, leading to a more reliable, efficient, and customer-friendly service. This shift in focus can foster loyalty and drive the growth and development of the sector.

Nigeria set to establish new sports management board- Dikko

```By Abdulgafar Oladimeji

The chairman National Sports Commission, NSC Shehu Dikko has revealed that the commission has set in motion the process to establish Nigeria’s first Sports Infrastructure Development Management Board.

Dikko in a television chat titled Reshaping Democracy aired on NTA, last Tuesday disclosed that the moves to create the new board is as a result of the efforts to revive the decaying state of sports infrastructure in Nigeria.

He added that the creation of the planned board is targeted at refocusing Nigerian sports from sole reliant on taking part in competition only to productivity levels.

The NSC boss explained that the plan is to reposition the sector to enable it contribute to the national GDP through the concession and licensing of sports facilities to boost revenue generation.

He then disclosed that plans are underway to construct one new stadiums in the six geographical zones.

He added that , MKO stadium Abuja would be used to kick start the new revenue generation model being introduced by the commission.

Dikko opine that the new plan is part of the strategies to develop and sustain sports infrastructure in Nigeria through investment drives.

He boasted that the task is an easy one, if the budget is available, adding that the commission has mapped out plans to engage potential partners from the public and private sector to attract huge investments into sports infrastructure.```

My Silence On Nigeria Sports Deliberate - Gara Gombe

Sports entrepreneur and former Gombe United FC Chairman Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe has said only administrators with skeletons in sports can afford to bar stakeholders from expressing their views on sports development in Nigeria.

In a chat with journalists recently, Gara-Gombe noted that on several occasions he has been barred from expressing his views over major development and appointment in Nigeria sports in Radio and Television Stations in Nigeria.

"All sports stakeholders and those who appreciates my modest contributions in Nigeria sports, especially trying to always put sports administrators and managers on their toes"

I advise them not to worry as many people have been calling me, sending messages to my friends and close associates asking why I have been quiet about the reintroduction of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the managers."

The Chairman Gombe State Athletics Association also reacted to rumours that he had pulled out of sports business and administration 

"There's nothing to worry about as my silence is deliberate, I'm still in sports, people are saying I ve quite sports, I'm not out of sports for now.

Because there's no way I can afford to sleep because certain people who I have differences with about how they managed our sports in the past are now in charge of sports in the country.

The Nigeria Constitution has given me and all of us the right to participate in lawful activities in the country, in this case, including sports.

So, my silence is deliberate, I will talk at the right time."

On his travails with a few Television and Radio stations in Nigeria 

" I would like to say clearly that in the last few weeks, I was barred from featuring on four national television and Radio stations, even a few Newspapers to expressing my opinion and discuss the newly introduced National Sports Commission (NSC) by the federal government.

The disturbing part is that those who blocked me using proxies have no idea of what I want to talk about, I don't know what they are afraid of or why they don't want me to expressing my own right and opinion as guaranteed by law.

I don't see why they should be afraid, 

If they feel comfortable with their past or who they are, why must they go about blocking me?

There was this station, one hour to a scheduled interview, they called me to say my air time (interview) have been paid for.

However, I know about Television production, one can't come two hours to production to tell me my air time has been paid for. 

It doesn't show integrity of the media, however, I don't own a TV or a Radio station, but I own a newspaper and I would continue to raise my voice on issues I feel are in the best interest of the Nigerian public.

The intriguing side of it is that they don't have an idea of what I want to say whether or not it's in their favour.

So , because people that have skeletons never wanted the a biology teacher to handle a topic on anatomy."

He assured all sports stakeholders 

and those who still have confidence and believe on his contribution in sports in Nigeria to remain calm. "I'm very much around, concerned and will pursue swift and talk about credible sports development in Nigeria without fear or favour.

Currently, I am.outside the country, I can also talk from anywhere around the globe, for now, I am.busy to start commenting on issues Nigerians are already aware of, but at the appropriate time, no individual or group can cover the Sun or the moon with two hands

My detractors forgot that the Social media is also available to me to air my views. At the end of the day, the national interest shall prevail. 

Nigeria is bigger and greater than any individual or cabal that wants to hold down Nigerian sports.

Profiteering from it in the last 20 to 25 years must stop" he concluded.

On the Panel set up by the former Minister of Sports John Enoh Gara- Gombe said as far as he is concerned, the 7 man Committee didn't do a good job.

"They left many issues untouched.

They didn't talk about finances and also refused to investigate the AFN on why certain things happened.

I see no reason the panel didn't indict the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) they also refused to indict the former Minister, and Ministry officials in areas concerning how the over N24 billion Olympic funds was managed.

The investigative Committee under Dr. Mumuni Alao is someone.I have deep regards for, honestly, in my opinion they didn't do a good job.

The panel's job was not thorough, there are areas left untouched, they may claim, the issues was not in their terms of reference. However, 

there should be total investigation into all Olympic activities of the Sports Ministry.

There are other federations that have their own share of scandal, I don't know why AFN was the only one targetted in the Panel reports, this is very wrong.

I am aware of a coach who was accredited as Olympic delegate with a fake licence.

This fake licence was discovered in Paris which was a huge embarrassment to Nigeria.

Nobody investigated or mentioned it anywhere.

What about the borrowed bicycle, nothing was done or investigations carried out. It was swept under the carpet.

I still can't reconcile why only AFN was profiled while others got wavers.

I'm not saying those indicted in AFN were innocent, but what about other federation officials?

I am not sure any of the panel members attended the Paris Olympics So, why appoint them? , that is why their job was not thorough as many things got covered up.

The man (Sports Minister) who would have been investigated is now hiding in another ministry, What a terrific abbaration" Gombe said.

Emerging Concern: Youth Demonstrators in Nigeria Waving Russian Flags- Dr Sa'idu Ahmad Dukawa

A growing issue of urgent concern is the use of Russian flags by some youth engaged in so-called peaceful demonstrations in Nigeria. During an interview with a media house on Monday morning, August 5, 2024, which marked the fourth day of the "End Bad Governance" demonstrations, I provided insights into this development.

In my immediate response, I identified three factors driving this phenomenon, which I believe converge into one dangerous issue requiring immediate attention from authorities and stakeholders.

**Three Key Factors:**

1. **Anti-West Sentiment:** In the Third World, even among the unschooled, there is a pervasive belief that institutions like the World Bank and the IMF, domiciled in America, are behind their increasing suffering. Viewing Russia as anti-America, the demonstrators seem to embrace the adage, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." Hence, they call for Russian support, although the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has distanced itself from the act.

2. **Regional Influences:** Many Africans are aware that the Niger Junta, along with those of Mali and Burkina Faso, have faced stiff opposition from the West, prompting them to ally with Russia. The demonstrators may be signaling that if their protests are sabotaged by the West, they will not hesitate to invite Russian intervention.

3. **Domestic Politics:** There is a perception among Nigerians that President Tinubu is aligned with Western interests. The demonstrators might be expressing their discontent with him by targeting his perceived allies.

I concluded the interview by asserting that, regardless of the cause, it is evident that many Nigerians see liberal democracy as failing to deliver the desired leadership. This disillusionment drives some to seek alternatives, including bizarre acts such as waving the flag of a foreign country, calling for its intervention, and denouncing their own nationality.

**Deeper Reflections:**

In further reflection, I shared similar concerns with Professor Salisu Shehu in a WhatsApp group. We identified several critical points:

1. **Infiltration Concerns:** The youth waving the flags did not appear sophisticated enough to understand the implications of their actions. This raises serious questions about who infiltrated, mobilized, and supplied them with the flags. There is a significant concern about the possibility of these aggrieved youth being penetrated by unknown forces and possibly armed to fight their own country.

2. **Exploitation by Big Powers:** Both Western and Eastern powers might analyze and exploit the situation to serve their strategic interests, potentially worsening matters for Nigeria.

3. **Treason and Repercussions:** The demonstrators are likely unaware of the gravity of their actions, which amount to treason. A hasty response by the state could lead to a worse calamity. Notably, Biafra state agitators raised Israeli flags, and #EndSARS demonstrators raised American flags. This issue demands deep consideration by security agencies.

4. **Diplomatic Tensions:** The strained diplomatic relations in the Sahel could exacerbate the situation, with neighboring countries potentially capitalizing on the unrest.

5. **Leadership Silence:** Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has labeled the act of flying Russian flags in Nigeria as a treasonable offense. However, there is a need for restraint from military leaders in a democracy. The Ministers of Defence, the Minister of Information, and various advisors to the President should address the situation instead.

These reflections underscore the need for deeper thoughts and actions to avert a potential state failure. Stakeholders must do more to address this issue.