society

Why the merger of NAUB with NDA cannot work, the hard facts to consider

Published

2 years ago

March 7, 2024

Why the merger of NAUB with NDA cannot work, the hard facts to consider

Of a truth, the merger of the Nigerian Army University and the Nigerian Defence Academy cannot work. And this is not unconnected to the fact that they are two distinct institutions with distinct visions, missions and objectives. And the hard facts to consider are presented here.

NAUB is an academic national public University made up of students, scholars, old collegians and staff members with notable stakeholders like Federal Ministry of education, NUC etc. Within five years of debut, the institution has impacted the national socio-economic development framework through the provision of creative and innovative solutions in a rapidly changing and knowledge driven world. And has successfully built five strong haven of faculties namely Arts, management and social sciences, natural and applied sciences, computing, Engineering Technology and Environmental sciences and has become the darling of many as first choice in JAMB.

NAUB provides a conducive teaching and learning environment in an environment once volatile and considered a hub of terrorism and ignorance. This university was able to achieve that by attracting high quality teaching and research staff, together with talented students; thus ensuring the availability of the much needed entrepreneurial ‘space’ as the platform for bottom up innovation.

This facilitated the grooming of graduates during the first convocation with distinctive competence inducing key in the 21st century world of works skills that will distinguish them, and their degrees as top performers in the global scene.

This unique university has become a centre of excellence for learning, research, and technological development that promotes excellence, ingenuity, creativity, and distinctive competence in intellectual outputs.

One of the uniqueness of the Federal University known as NAUB is the ability to fuse practical career preparation with a focus on creating positive change in our world.

Thus, such a lofty project of the founding fathers built on solid foundation should be preserved and not scrapped.

Infact, some of the testaments of the graduates from NAUB is a reality of why the university should be left alone. Adewuni Victor Adetunji, a graduate of Political Science revealed how Naub has impacted him. According to him, the Nigerian Army University Biu has been a great citadel of Learning, the school delivered excellently well to the students in terms of Passing Knowledge to the students, they successfully impacted on them using their best acquired Knowledge. The Institution is a place where standards of behaviour, principles of right and wrong are clearly made.

Another graduate stated that When it comes to Moral and Discipline, the school is known for her outstanding rate, because no staff be it military and Civil staff give room for undisciplined and immorality. Over academic concentration, NAUB has less extracurricular activities which make the students have high concentration for academics activities,

Shedding more light on the uniqueness of Naub, another product of the school revealed that Going by the vision and mission of the school, the institution has tactically reduced the attacks of the insurgent. Biu is known for resilience, but when NAUB came to existence more of it was displayed.

Speaking with passion, one of the students admitted that attending the Nigerian Army University Biu had a profound and complex impact on his personal and academic development. As a conventional university under the auspices of the Nigerian Armed Forces, it provided a unique environment that fostered discipline, focus, and a strong work ethic.

One of the most significant impacts was the ability to maintain laser-sharp focus on their studies. Unlike traditional universities with a plethora of social activities and distractions, the Nigerian Army University Biu had a relatively limited social scene. This allowed them to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to academics without the constant temptation of numerous parties, events, or other diversions. The serene and structured campus life instilled in me the invaluable skill of time management and prioritisation.

The disciplinary aspect of the university also left an indelible mark. Being part of an institution run by the military, there was a strong emphasis on punctuality, orderliness, and adhering to a strict code of conduct. This cultivated a sense of responsibility and accountability within me, traits that will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavours, be it in the professional realm or personal life.

Furthermore, the Nigerian Army University Biu provided a well-rounded education that extended beyond just academics. The university’s ethos emphasised character-building, leadership skills, and a deep sense of patriotism and service to the nation.

Academically, the university’s rigorous curriculum and high standards challenged them to push their intellectual boundaries. The faculty comprised highly qualified and experienced instructors, their mentorship and guidance not only enhanced subject knowledge but also instilled in them a deep respect for academic integrity and a thirst for continuous learning.

Overall, their time at the Nigerian Army University Biu was a transformative experience that shaped them into a more focused, disciplined, and well-rounded individual. The unique environment provided an ideal setting for personal growth, character development, and academic excellence.

The mandate of the Nigerian Defence Academy is very specific: to produce young officers with first degrees for the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, and the Nigerian Air Force. In some cases, the NDA assists the Police, Para-military agencies such as the Customs, Immigration, the Prisons, and Civil Defence Corps, as well as other security agencies to conduct training for their officers. On the other hand, the Nigerian Army University Biu is meant to produce skilled manpower (selected civilians and soldiers) with distinctive competence capable of meeting the security and technological challenges of the nation.

Secondly, the admission policy is based on 75% civilian and 25% military/Paramilitary, security agencies, etc. The 75% civilian component will be spread to all 36 states of the Federation as well as FCT while NDA is strictly for Army officials.

Furthermore, the logistical challenges of merging two institutions with distinct cultures, academic programmes, and operational frameworks can not be underestimated. Integrating NAUB and NDA into a single entity would require significant restructuring, resource reallocation, and strategic alignment, posing a risk of disruption and inefficiency in the process.

While collaboration and partnership between educational institutions can yield benefits, it is crucial to recognise and respect the individual identities and purposes of NAUB and NDA. Preserving the autonomy and distinctiveness of each institution is essential to ensure that they continue to effectively serve their respective mandates and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of education and national security in Nigeria. A merger between NAUB and NDA would not only be impractical but could also undermine the unique strengths and contributions of these vital institutions.

Finally, the huge academic and intellectual loss and vacuum the merger would spell is indescribable and like Governor Zulum said the security consequences for the North East. Also, the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Tinubu Administration, which has come to rekindle the dashed hopes of citizens, of which Education should be the key pillar are factors the merger should be avoided.

society

Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos

Published

3 days ago

June 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos

By Ifeoma Ikem

A property dispute within the Omotayo-Ojo family has taken a dramatic turn following a controversial demolition exercise at a residential building in Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos State, which reportedly left tenants displaced and led to the detention of some police officers allegedly involved in the operation.

The property, located at 23B Loveall Street, Ikosi-Ketu, has been the subject of a prolonged ownership tussle since the death of its owner, Chief Oludola Omotayo Ojo, the Babaalaje of Imesi-Ile, Osun State, in 2019.
Residents said tension erupted when a group of individuals, accompanied by security operatives, stormed the premises and commenced demolition activities.

According to eyewitnesses, portions of the building were pulled down while tenants rushed to salvage their belongings from affected apartments.

The residents alleged that windows, doors and roofing sheets were damaged during the exercise, exposing parts of the building to the elements and causing significant losses to occupants.

At the centre of the dispute is Mrs Mojisola Omotayo Ojo Alolagbe, who claimed that the property was allocated to her by her late father during his lifetime as a source of financial support.

She alleged that some family members had persistently challenged her ownership claim despite ongoing legal proceedings relating to the administration of the deceased’s estate.
Alolagbe further claimed that the latest incident was part of a series of attempts to wrest control of the property, citing previous cases of alleged vandalism and partial demolition in November 2025, January 2026 and February 2026.

The situation escalated further when reports emerged that police officers allegedly involved in the demolition were later apprehended and conveyed in a Black Maria vehicle over questions surrounding the legality of their participation in the operation.

Sources familiar with the matter said those behind the demolition had initially claimed to be acting on approval from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands. However, the authenticity and extent of such approval could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.

The development has generated concern among residents and community members, who questioned the involvement of security personnel in what they described as a civil matter.

Some tenants, who said they had recently renewed their tenancy agreements, lamented the destruction of their property and appealed to the authorities for protection and possible compensation.

They also called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the demolition, insisting that the rights of all parties involved should be protected.
Stakeholders have urged the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the judiciary to intervene and ensure that the dispute is resolved through lawful means to prevent further escalation.

The controversy has continued to draw public attention, raising concerns over property rights, estate administration and the role of law enforcement agencies in civil disputes.

society

UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin

Published

5 days ago

May 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.

May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.

In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.

### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.

2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.

UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.

3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.

4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.

For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.

United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.

society

Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

Published

6 days ago

May 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.

In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.

According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.

He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.

“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.

The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.

He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.

“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.

Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.

While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.

“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.

The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.

He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.