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UN-WCD Back Tinubu’s Security Push, Seek Matawalle’s Redeployment
The United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD), in collaboration with the International Institute of Experts on Political Economy and Administration (IIEPEA), has openly backed President Bola Tinubu’s security strategy, demanding immidiate redeployment of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, from the ministry.The Diplomats, at a press conference held on Monday in Abuja, said Matawalle’s move from Defence Ministry became necessary to eliminate what they termed “perceived internal obstacles” to success against banditry and terrorism in the country.The diplomats disclosed their position while presenting an Assessment Report on the ongoing war against terrorism in Nigeria.Unveiling the report, UN-WCD Secretary-General H.E. Amb. Prof. Tunji John Asaolu, praised the growing military partnership between Nigeria and the United States, describing the joint operations as precise, disciplined, and effective.According to Asaolu, the assessment revealed that despite the scale of recent joint military engagements, no civilian casualties were recorded, a development he said underscored professionalism and adherence to international rules of engagement.“We commend the United States military and the Nigerian Ministry of Defence for the progress recorded so far in degrading terrorist networks,” he said, adding that the collaboration has weakened insurgent strongholds across several regions.However, Asaolu warned that persistent attacks showed that terrorism has not been fully eradicated.He cited the recent bandit attack at Kasuwan-Daji in Niger State, where over 30 traders were reportedly killed, as evidence that Nigeria’s security architecture still required urgent recalibration.The UN-WCD Secretary-General said the incident reinforced the need for a “surgical cleansing” of the defence system, particularly of officials whose continued presence raises public suspicion or operational concerns.While cautioning against destabilising scenarios similar to the recent Venezuela crisis—where a sitting president was arrested during a full-scale military operation sanctioned by the United States, Asaolu stressed that President Tinubu has displayed uncommon political will in tackling insecurity.“Our findings show clearly that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has gone beyond expectations in confronting terrorism. What remains is to remove internal bottlenecks that could undermine his efforts,” he said.At the centre of the diplomats’ recommendations was a direct call for the redeployment of Matawalle from the Ministry of Defence, which they described as critical to restoring confidence and coherence in the anti-terror war.They cited persistent credibility questions, including allegations of links with bandits dating back to Matawalle’s tenure as governor of Zamfara State, warning that keeping an official under such scrutiny weakens the moral authority of the security campaign.The group also noted that Matawalle’s continued stay in the defence ministry could dilute the seriousness signaled by recent military leadership reforms, including the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff.Additional red flags raised by the diplomats included allegations from former associates, claims of shielding bandit leaders, facilitation of ransom payments, and public remarks perceived as dismissive of victims—issues they said have fuelled anger and distrust.UN-WCD further argued that Matawalle’s limited security background, coupled with mounting calls for his removal from clerics and respected commentators, has drawn unwelcome international attention to Nigeria’s defence leadership.“The war against terrorism cannot be fought with credibility gaps at the top,” Asaolu said. “Allowing officials facing serious allegations to remain in sensitive positions risks sabotaging public trust and operational effectiveness.”The diplomatic body concluded by urging President Tinubu to treat Matawalle’s redeployment not as a sanction, but as a decisive governance move necessary to tighten the security chain, reassure Nigerians, and fast-track victory against terrorism.“Public sentiment against banditry is high, and the resurfacing of dismissive comments made by Mr. Mutawalle reflects a lack of empathy towards thousands of victims. His remarks alienate those affected and can severely damage the government’s credibility in addressing security challenges, one of the reasons why the Christian genocide claim was more pronounced.“The integrity of Nigeria’s security apparatus is crucial. Allowing individuals under serious scrutiny to remain in leadership roles can compromise institutional efficacy and credibility. A change in leadership is vital to restore faith and effectiveness within the defence ministry.“In conclusion, I urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider these points seriously. The redeployment of Bello Mutawalle from the Ministry of Defense is not merely a matter of personnel; it is a critical step toward reaffirming our commitment to accountability, integrity, and the effective governance essential for our national security,” they stated.
NEWS
Governor Dauda Lawal Wins New Telegraph Governor of the Year Award for Remarkable Development Initiatives
In a significant recognition of his leadership and developmental agenda, Dr. Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, has been awarded the prestigious New Telegraph Governor of the Year Award for Projects. This accolade comes just a day after he received the Governor of the Year award from Leadership Newspaper in Abuja. The gala ceremony took place at the renowned Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos on Friday, February 13, 2026, showcasing the governor’s exceptional contributions to the state.
The award was presented to Governor Lawal by Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State and a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), alongside His Excellency Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Publisher of New Telegraph and former Governor of Abia State. Both leaders expressed their admiration for Governor Lawal’s substantial investments in crucial sectors such as education, road construction, agricultural development, security enhancement, and capacity building. These initiatives have played a vital role in transforming Zamfara into a flourishing hub of infrastructural renewal and socio-economic growth.
During the award dinner, event organizers emphasized that Governor Lawal’s selection was based on his impressive track record of creating impactful projects and driving sustainable development within the state. The governor’s commitment to transparency, fiscal prudence, and exceptional budget performance has set a new standard for governance in Zamfara.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Lawal reflected on his campaign promises aimed at rescuing the state from years of infrastructural neglect. He noted that visible transformations are taking place, with Zamfara steadily evolving into a well-structured and efficient entity. He highlighted his administration’s focus on revamping the civil service to enhance efficiency and integrating technology to improve governance.
Governor Lawal also reassured the attendees that his administration is steadfastly on course to complete all ongoing projects, meeting and exceeding established standards. He underscored his unwavering commitment to the overall development of Zamfara, vowing to continue elevating the state from its previous struggles to a vibrant and sustainable community committed to the welfare of its citizens.
As a testament to his belief in collaborative governance, he dedicated the award to the resilient and supportive people of Zamfara. He expressed deep gratitude for their trust and encouragement, emphasizing that their faith in his leadership fuels his drive toward ensuring a prosperous future for the state.
The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has launched an urban radio station in Lagos, making it the third radio station he has established.
The launch took place today, Friday, 13th February 2026, in commemoration of his annual thanksgiving programme, which began a few weeks ago and will end on Sunday, 15th February 2026.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly; the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education; the Oloto of Oto-Awori Kingdom, who donated two plots of land for the establishment; the Iyaloja of Oto-Awori Kingdom; and other prominent individuals such as Vincent Okurafor and Sunday Oladeji, among others.
According to Primate Ayodele, the establishment of the radio station was driven by his passion for communication and his desire to keep people informed about current happenings in their environment.
He made it known that the radio station is not for religious purposes but is intended to inform, educate, and celebrate people, as its operations will primarily serve the good people of Lagos State.
He also noted that the radio station will be donated to a professional management team that will make good use of it for the betterment of the less privileged, widows, the downtrodden, and others.
“I believe that when people are informed, the world will be a better place. Everyone deserves to know what is happening around them, and everyone deserves to be educated on issues of life. These are some of the reasons behind the creation of this radio station.
“It isn’t for my personal use or for religious reasons; it is basically to help the needy, support the downtrodden, lend a voice to the voiceless, empower widows, and serve the people right. The creation is centred around people, not necessarily to make money, but to render assistance.
“We will be donating it to a professional management team that will harness it properly for the good of the people.”
Furthermore, Primate Ayodele awarded full scholarships to two students in the vicinity.
While speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of LASUED, Professor Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, who was ably represented, lauded the initiative, stating that students from the institution would undertake internships at the radio station.
“This is partnership in progress. At LASUED, we are very concerned about communication. We have an online radio station and a functional Department of Communication. This will support our interest in communication because we produce media practitioners. This company and the university will form a synergy, and our students will be able to undertake internships here. We are deeply concerned about this and we cherish it a lot. It has become a mouthpiece for the community, and on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, I wish this company profound success.”
Other dignitaries also commended the initiative, noting that it would benefit the community at large and create significant economic expansion.
It is worth noting that some of the equipment installed at the radio station is of global standard, including a studio that supports visual transmission. Overall, the current cost of the station is estimated at no less than N700 million.
NEWS
Governor Lawal Honored with Leadership Newspaper Governor of the Year Award, Pledges Continued Commitment to Zamfara’s Development
The Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, Ph.D., has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to fostering tangible progress and rebuilding public trust in the governance of Zamfara State. His commitment to the state’s development was underscored during the recent Leadership Newspaper annual conference, where he was awarded the LEADERSHIP Newspaper Governor of the Year Award today Thursday 12th of February at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
This award symbolizes recognition from the LEADERSHIP Newspaper, which aims to honor distinguished figures who have made significant contributions worthy of national admiration. According to a statement released by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the annual awards and conference highlight exemplary leadership and achievements across various sectors in Nigeria.
The event was graced by notable figures, including Dr. Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, who delivered an insightful keynote address. Dr. Mohammed elaborated on this year’s theme: “Political Stability and Sustainable Development in Africa in an Increasingly Unstable Global System: A Roadmap for Nigeria,” emphasizing the critical need for strong governance to navigate contemporary challenges.
When presenting the award to Governor Lawal, the LEADERSHIP Newspaper highlighted the governor’s exemplary leadership qualities and his comprehensive transformative initiatives that have marked significant progress in Zamfara State. The statement noted, “Governor Dauda Lawal’s remarkable performance and courageous leadership have positioned Zamfara on a renewed path of progress, peace, and sustainable development.”
This recognition is a testament to the impactful policies and initiatives launched under Governor Lawal’s administration, including efforts to enhance security, improve infrastructure, and promote economic growth. The newspaper concluded that Governor Lawal’s leadership reflects excellence and profound commitment to the welfare of his constituents, making him exceptionally deserving of this esteemed national recognition.
Notably, this accolade follows closely on the heels of another significant honor bestowed upon the governor just two weeks prior, when he was named The Sun Newspaper Governor of the Year at a ceremony held at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. These accolades signify a growing acknowledgment of his transformative leadership and the positive changes taking root in Zamfara State under his guidance.
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