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What made the newly appointed service chiefs eligible for the job- Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday explained how he settled for his choice of service chiefs, few hours after he appointed new heads for the nation’s armed forces.
Mr. Buhari had on Monday afternoon appointed new Service Chiefs and a National Security Adviser, after sacking their predecessors.
The president appointed Major-General Abayomi Gabriel Olonishakin as Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General T.Y. Buratai as Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as Chief of Naval Staff; and Air Vice Marshal Sadique Abubakar as Chief of Air Staff.
He also appointed Air Vice Marshal Monday Riku Morgan as Chief of Defence Intelligence; and Retired Major-General Babagana Monguno as National Security Adviser.
Addressing the new military chiefs shortly after their appointments, Mr. Buhari said he considered merit and track records in tapping them for their new assignments.
“All of you, including the National Security Adviser, were chosen on merit,” the President said.
“Your records gave you the job.
“Save for the new Chief of Army Staff whom I briefly met at his Command at the Multi-National Joint Task Force, in Chad, I don’t know any of you.
“Your records recommended you.”
The president therefore charged the new military chiefs to help him rebuild the reputation of the Armed Forces and the nation.
The President also called on them to show utmost commitment to their new duties.
Mr. Buhari assured them that their nominations would be sent to the National Assembly for confirmation.
“Legally, you are in acting capacity until the National Assembly accepts you,” the President said.
“It is only then that you will take the oath of office. Thereafter, we will sit down and talk in more detail.”
President Buhari appointed Major-General Munguno National Security Adviser against speculations that former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. General Abdulrahman Dambazau, would most likely get the job.
Presidency insiders however did not express surprise with the decision, saying President Buhari had long indicated preference to appointing a retired military officer with intelligence background, against Mr Dambazau, who was a military police.
Aside Mr. Dambazau’s perceived lack of experience in secret service, sources said the former army chief may have lost the plum position owing to a barrage of petitions against him.
It was learnt that President Buhari was alerted to Mr. Dambazau’s alleged involvement in the scandal concerning the renovation/upgrading of 44 Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, when he was chief of army staff.
The petitioners reportedly claimed that the project, meant to upgrade the hospital to a world class reference centre for the military, allegedly gulped billions of naira under Mr. Dambazau without commensurate result.
A presidency official however said the former army chief might be compensated with another appointment.
Mr. Buhari’s appointment of the new service chiefs came 48 hours after it was exclusively reported that the President’s slow approach to governance was affecting the prosecution of the war against the extremist Boko Haram sect in the north east of Nigeria.
Officials in the administration and some retired security and military experts had said that the decision by the president to allow uncertainty surround the tenures of the service chiefs and the National Security Adviser he inherited from the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, was greatly affecting the war.
“Service Chiefs are currently sitting at the edge of their seats; there is a regime of uncertainty because it was clear to them and everyone that they would not be part of the new administration, as such, they presently do not go the extra mile,” one official said.
Officials at the Defence Headquarters had also told this paper that there was no long term commitment on the part of the now sacked Service Chiefs and other top commanders, owing largely to the uncertainty regarding their tenure.
“All the Service Chiefs have cleared their desks including the NSA, and each day, they expect to receive the news of their sack, in that case, how do you expect someone to be in the right frame to prosecute a war as complex as the one against Boko Haram who use civilian targets as shield,” one official had said.
He added that the Service Chiefs were hardly taking any long term decision on the war and security matters.
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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria
Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria
By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.
Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.
“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”
Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.
As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.
In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.
As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal
…As Dangote Refinery partners MRS to sell PMS at N935 per litre nationwide at its retail outlets
Sahara Weekly Unveils That The Foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira for crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, which has led to reduction in prices of petroleum products in the country.
To provide succour to Nigerians, Dangote recently reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N970 to N899.50 at its Refinery loading gantry and provided generous credit terms to marketers.
“To ensure that this price reduction gets to the end consumer, we have signed a partnership with MRS to sell petrol from its retail outlets nationwide at N935 per litre” he added. This price has already commenced in Lagos, and it will be offered nationwide from Monday.
In his statement, he called on other oil marketers such as the NNPC Retail and all other marketers, “to work with us to ensure that Nigerians enjoy high-quality petrol at discounted prices.”
According to him, “The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will therefore continue to work with various value chain players to deliver high quality petrol at cheaper prices. Our aim is for all Nigerians to have ready access to high quality petroleum products that are good for their vehicles, good for their health, and good for their pockets.
Recall that in September, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of Mr. President approved the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira and corresponding purchase of petroleum products in Naira. The move, which commenced on October 1, led to reduced pressure on the dollar and ensured the stability of the local currency.
Dangote thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support and the government for creating an enabling environment for the domestic refining industry.
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