society

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS

Published

5 years ago

June 30, 2021

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS

A MILLION ACCOLADES TO THE DSS– It is without doubt that due to some tendencies, certain elements will always endeavor to undermine public order and national security. It is in the recognition of that possibility that countries establish specific agencies to detect and prevent threats against national (internal) security. It goes without saying that managing the internal security of a populous country like Nigeria would not be an easy one.

The State Security Service (SSS) a.k.a Department of State Services DSS is one of such agencies charged with detection and prevention of crimes and threats against the internal security of Nigeria. It is the leading domestic intelligence agency in Nigeria. Its primary responsibility includes the collection of intelligence for good governance and national safety. It ensures the protection of the State and its officials, citizens, critical resources and infrastructure from domestic threat.
Evidently, the DSS in the country has been doing a herculean task in discharging the aforementioned responsibilities. It is however unfortunate that most people do not realize how much sacrifice the Service and its operatives have made. One key area the Service’s achievement is outstanding is in the maintenance of national unity. No doubt the indivisibility and indissolubility of the country provided by the Constitution rests on the DSS ably led by its Director General, Mr. Yusuf Magaji Bichi whose leadership has been impressive.
The criticisms in some quarters that the DSS has failed in its duty as an intelligence agency is unfounded. The Service has continuously implemented strategies that have not only been successful in tackling insecurity, but are saving the nation from collapse. The way and manner it managed the EndSARS incident and even the human rights community has remained outstandingly commendable. Nigeria has not collapsed due largely to the singular efforts of the agency.
That the DSS does not advertise its achievements is not a reason to castigate it in thankless ways. Most people would not know how much it stretches itself to protect the internal security of the country. Those that know are aware it is the eyes and ears of the nation. It is a gate keeper. The DSS is a pillar of support for Nigeria’s democracy. Since assumption of Bichi as its DG, the accusation of rights abuse has reduced drastically. The Service may not be perfect it is discharging its duties within the norms of democracy and rule of law.
Deeply involved in the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North East, it provides regular actionable intelligence to sister agencies. It does same for the anti-graft agencies and by doing so has reduced economic crimes, internet and advance fee frauds. The agency has maintained a robust strategy that is fighting kidnapping, banditry, arms trafficking and militancy, amongst others. It has sustained intelligence gathering efforts and aggressively participated in enforcement/joint operations with sister agencies. Some of its other achievements include, but not limited to: intercepting terrorist elements as well as disrupting terrorist cell. It has also intercepted cache of arms and ammunition in parts of the country; investigated and prosecuted criminal cases particularly those against the state.
DSS’ support for democracy, public policy, timely dissemination of intelligence, security education among other positive contributions have helped to boost public confidence in the Service and reversed previously held notions that it is unfriendly. Other strategies employed by the agency are; training and capacity building for staff, acquisition of new tools and technological capacity to meet today’s challenges and partnership with strategic groups. In this regard, major media outfits that have visited the agency’s headquarters were warmly received by top officials of the security agency. The guest were told that primary objective of the Service was to make Nigeria safe for its citizens and not to witch hunt anybody.
Without any shred of doubt, the current DG, since his assumption of Office, has brought lots of positive changes to the DSS. Things can only get better as time goes on. His performance has been commendable, not only in the area of combating insecurity, but in the Service’s diligent discharge of its responsibilities. A million accolades to the distinguished DGSS and his men.

society

Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

Published

2 hours ago

April 3, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

It was testimonies galore on Tuesday, March 31, the first day of the famous servant of God and founder of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman’s power-packed two-day crusade. The event documented impactful moments with the Gospel and miracles, emphasizing the power of faith and the tangible confirmation of God’s Word through signs and wonders. It was equally an atmosphere of miraculous healing, restoration of lives, and the strengthening of faith.

At the crusade, which was held at the SKD Sports Stadium in Paynesville City, and themed, “Liberia Outpouring Crusade” witnessed testimonies of impact and miracles with participants experiencing instant healing of various kinds of challenges.

Apostle Suleman’s first port of call was Paynesville, the office of Liberian government’s president, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who received him in an audience with his junior ministers. Apostle Suleman, who also met with the vice-president, Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, was welcomed by the Liberian leader’s office as part of the president’s ongoing engagements with religious leaders aimed at fostering spiritual support for national development.

The president expressed profound appreciation to Apostle Suleman for the visit and continued prayers and intercessions by men and women of God on behalf of Liberia, emphasizing his firm belief that sustained spiritual guidance and prayer remain vital to the transformation and progress of the nation.

During the visit, Apostle Suleman offered prayers for President Boakai, his cabinet and the Liberian nation, invoking divine alignment, wisdom, and insight in Liberia’s path toward growth and stability. He prayed that the Almighty God would position Liberia for relevance and fulfillment of its national destiny.

Apostle Johnson Suleman, an evangelist who knows no bounds of where preaching the gospel comes to a stop, visited Liberia prepared with the message, compelling power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit, and bringing people to a point of decision where they surrendered their lives to Christ.

Aside from being prophetic and timely, OFM sources disclosed that the servant of God’s visit underscores the importance of faith-based partnerships in supporting governance and national renewal efforts.

society

Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

Published

2 hours ago

April 3, 2026

Sahara Weekly

*Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

The Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his profound demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership following his decision to postpone an official engagement in Iperu in order to visit victims of the recent attacks in Jos.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum said the President’s decision to personally identify with grieving communities sends a powerful message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the Federal Government to the protection of lives and property.

“The Middle Belt Peace Forum warmly commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising compassion over ceremony. At a time of deep sorrow for the people of Plateau State, his decision to visit Jos stands as a mark of true leadership—one that listens, responds, and stands with the people in their moment of pain,” the statement read.

The Forum described the perpetrators of the recent attacks as “cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens,” stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.

The MBPF further used the opportunity to salute the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that their continued efforts remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.

According to the Forum, the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience and professionalism in the face of complex security challenges, often operating under difficult conditions to safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“We salute the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices. Their gallantry in confronting criminal elements and reclaiming territories is a testament to their dedication to national service. We recognise that the path to peace is demanding, and we honour those who stand daily in defence of our nation,” the statement added.

The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.

It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.

The MBPF, however, expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.

“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.

The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.

The MBPF concluded by reiterating its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.

“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.

society

Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

Published

2 hours ago

April 3, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.

The award was presented during the magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award ceremony, held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the awards recognize public and private sector leaders whose leadership positively impacts governance and service delivery.

He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the Roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

The statement read in part: “Yesterday, in London, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.

“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has over the years celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.

“The award recognizes the Zamfara State Government under Governor Lawal’s leadership for achieving remarkable milestones in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.

“The board of Triangle International noted that, despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue Agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector.

“This includes the state government’s swift payment of the outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO examinations, as well as the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

“The international magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”

The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s Group Managing Director, Kola Adesina, among others.