society
NAOSRE SECURITY DINNER: NCS Posits Shared Responsibilities As Panacea To Insecurity
At the Just concluded National Association of Online Security Reporters, NAOSRE, Dinner Summit which held at Oriental Hotel Lagos, the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS posits that all security agencies must synergize to tackle insecurity.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged to support all efforts geared towards tackling the rising insecurity in the country even as it called for cooperation on the part of Nigerians.
Speaking at the first annual Dinner Night & Discourse of the National Association of Online Security Reporters (NAOSRE) held in Lagos on Friday, the Public Relations Officer of the Service, DC Joseph Attah stated that security should not be be left in the hands of the security agencies alone as it appears, sometimes, as if the security agencies were becoming overwhelmed.
Attah who is represented at the event by the Public Relations Officer, Tincan Island Port Command of the Service, SC Uche Ejesieme observed that security was supposed to be a shared responsibility adding all hands must be on deck to ensure that it is achieved.
According to him, “It is instructive to note that the issue of insecurity has assumed a frightening dimension to the extent that nation states which were hitherto thought to be peaceful are now experiencing serious threats. It is therefore the position of the customs, the CGC and the management that the issue of security should be a shared responsibility. And no country will thrive anywhere in the world without seriously addressing the issue of insecurity.
“Nigeria Customs will continue to play its pivotal role in this regard. It is also a clarion call like we said earlier to all Nigerians; they should support the security agencies with clear information which is reliable as that can assist in identifying security threats with a view to nipping them in the board.”
On the achievement of the Service in the area of curbing insecurity, he pointed out that “The Service had effected seizures in the following categories of goods; in 2017 alone, the NCS profiled and intercepted using intelligence over 5,000 pump action riffles which eventually was handed over to the Nigeria Police, substances in large quantities that were confirmed to be cocaine with a street value of over one billion Naira, interception of large sums of money in various currencies at the airport, interception of stolen SUVs that were later repatriated through the INTERPOL to the US for further investigation, seizure of large quantities of controlled pharmaceuticals like Tramadol and of course, you know that Tramadol of 200mg and above is actually not allowed and also seizure of a lot of military hardware and a lot of security equipment and apparels, this is just to mention a few.”
“It is therefore incontrovertible to state that but for the seizure, the consequences of these offensive items entering into our shore and getting into the hands of wrong people could have had a very devastating effects on the socio-economic lives of our people”, he added.
On joint operations, the customs spokesman explained that since the inception of JTF, the customs had actually been deeply involved in joint operations in the North East and other parts of the country particularly since the inception of the Boko Haram insurgency.
He maintained that those operatives were trained by the military and they were involved in the activities of the Joint Task Forces even up till today even as he said that they have been making their marks.
“Similarly, the Service has formidable collaborations with other key government organizations like the Police, the DSS, the NAFDAC, the SON, the NESREA by way of intelligence gathering and information sharing. This has already produced results.
“You are also aware that in 2019, the Comptroller General of Customs in collaboration with other key security agencies actually came up with what is called Ex-Swift Response and this joint operation comprises the customs, the military and other paramilitary agencies was introduced and codenamed Ex-Swift Response and it is targeted at checking our borderlines and enforcing the closure of the borders from August 20, 2019 and this has succeeded in meeting the objectives as well as improving our national revenue.
“In this regard, our rice farmers and other farmers can bear testimonies to the positive effects of the border closure because I am sure most of them have been smiling to the banks. The joint operation recorded spectacular seizures almost on daily basis across the length and breadth”, he further said.
He therefore assured that the NCS under the present Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd.) and his management was deeply committed at ensuring that the NCS remained unrelenting in all aspects of its statutory function noting that “this is not to say that the NCS has all the answers confronting her.”
“The good news is that it is work in progress and we are still trying our best in decimating the activities of unpatriotic elements who are bent on using our space as dumping ground for all manner of illicit goods. We will continue to confront them in all fronts and we will encourage compliant trade”, he concluded.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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