NEWS
Meet Nuhu Ribadu, The Newly Appointed NSA
Nuhu Ribadu, the newly-appointed National Security Adviser (NSA), hails from Yola, Adamawa State, and was born on November 21, 1960.
His educational journey includes attending Aliyu Mustapha Primary School in Yola from 1966 to 1973, followed by Yelwa Government Secondary School in Yola from 1973 to 1977.
Continuing his studies, he enrolled at the College of Preliminary Studies (CPS) in Yola from 1978 to 1980 for his A-levels.
In 1980, Ribadu secured admission to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria to study law, completing his degree in 1983. He subsequently graduated from the Nigerian Law School and was called to the bar in 1984. Immediately after his national youth service, he joined the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
In addition to his academic achievements, Mr. Ribadu holds an LLM degree from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, with a focus on the jurisprudence of corruption in Nigeria.
In 2008, he furthered his education by participating in a program on the strategic management of law enforcement agencies at Harvard Business School.
The name Nuhu Ribadu has gained widespread recognition and acclaim in Nigeria and beyond, thanks to his remarkable track record in public service and unwavering personal integrity.
As a trained lawyer and a fearless crusader against crime, Mr. Ribadu has established himself as a patriotic, passionate, honest, courageous, and compassionate individual, carving a unique and respected reputation for himself.
Mr. Ribadu played a pivotal role as the pioneering Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), a government commission entrusted with combating corruption and fraud.
Under his leadership, the EFCC underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming one of the most effective and renowned anti-graft agencies in recent history.
However, his most significant contribution to the fight against corruption was his selflessness, resilience, and exemplary conduct in his relentless battle against this destructive menace.
With unwavering commitment and unwavering dedication to his duties, Mr. Ribadu diligently worked to eradicate the pervasive corruption and fraud that had plagued the nation.
Despite facing temptations, traps, and life-threatening challenges, he fearlessly held accountable numerous fraudsters, as well as high-profile looters and individuals involved in economic sabotage.
During his tenure, the EFCC, under Mr. Ribadu’s guidance, accomplished notable milestones.
Within a span of three years, the agency constructed the highly acclaimed Crimes Training and Research Institute, which stands as the most revered institution of its kind in the West African region.
Furthermore, under his leadership, the EFCC achieved an impressive record of over 200 criminal convictions.
In recognition of these exceptional achievements, Mr. Ribadu was promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in March 2007.
His expertise and accomplishments also garnered international attention, leading to his appointment to the advisory board on anti-corruption matters by the African Union (AU).
Additionally, he received an invitation to join the advisory board of the Friends of the World Bank/UNODC initiative on Stolen Asset Recovery, further solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the fight against corruption.
Mr. Ribadu has received numerous awards throughout his career as a police officer, prosecutor, and Chairman of the EFCC, further highlighting his exceptional contributions to the field.
He was honored with the Inspector General of Police Awards in 1997, 1998, and 2000, in recognition of his successful prosecution of various cases involving advanced fee fraud, banking fraud, and other economic crimes.
In 2005, he received a Special Commendation from the President for his remarkable achievements in these areas.
Moreover, since 2004, esteemed newspapers and magazines in Nigeria have consistently recognized him as the Man of the Year, acknowledging his remarkable accomplishments as a dedicated crusader against corruption and related crimes.
In 2008, Mr. Ribadu successfully completed the senior executive course at the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies. As a result, he was honored with the Membership of the National Institute (MNI), recognizing his notable contributions in the field.
In June 2010, Babcock University in Ogun State awarded Mr. Ribadu an honorary Doctor of Laws degree (honoris causa) as a testament to his unwavering courage and unwavering dedication in the fight against corruption.
The university acknowledged his fearless stance against corruption, even in the face of sponsored attempts to discredit him and threats to his life.
Additionally, in 1999, the Accountant General of the Federation specifically commended Mr. Ribadu for his successful prosecution of corrupt public servants.
Nuhu Ribadu who was named special advicer on security on June 15 is to replace Babagana Monguno as the new national security adviser (NSA).
The announcement was made through a statement signed by Willie Bassey, the Director of Information in the Office of the Secretary to the Federal Government on Monday.
As the newly appointed NSA, Mr. Ribadu’s responsibilities include providing advisory support to the president on matters concerning Nigeria’s security and its citizens.
He will also oversee the coordination of various security agencies and intelligence services under his supervision, such as the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
In addition to Mr. Ribadu’s appointment, President Tinubu has also announced the appointment of new service chiefs and an acting Inspector-General of Police as reported by BIZTELLERS.
NEWS
Dangote Refinery Cuts Petrol Price To ₦970 per Litre For Marketers
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, to ₦970 per litre for oil marketers.
This new price, effective immediately, marks a ₦20 decrease from the refinery’s previous ex-depot price of ₦990 per litre, which was set earlier this month.
In a statement released on Sunday, Anthony Chiejina, the refinery’s Chief Branding and Communications Officer, explained that the price reduction is a way for the company to express its appreciation to Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a reality.
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“This decision is our way of thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a dream come true,” Chiejina said.
The statement also highlighted the refinery’s gratitude towards the Nigerian government, acknowledging the role of government measures in supporting domestic businesses.
“In addition, this is to thank the government for their support, as this will complement the measures put in place to encourage domestic enterprise for our collective well-being,” the statement read.
Despite the price cut, the refinery reassured consumers that there would be no compromise on the quality of its products. “While the refinery would not compromise on the quality of its petroleum products, we assure you of best quality products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable,” the statement added.
The company also committed to ramping up production to meet domestic fuel consumption and alleviate concerns over potential supply shortages.
“We are determined to keep ramping up production to meet and surpass our domestic fuel consumption; thus, dispelling any fear of a shortfall in supply,” the statement concluded.
The price reduction is expected to save marketers approximately ₦20 per litre on purchases from the refinery’s Lekki-based plant.
NEWS
I Am Just A Content Creator – Simon Ekpa Denies Biafran Leadership Role
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent and a controversial figure in the Biafran separatist movement, has dismissed his self-styled title of “Prime Minister of Biafra” as inconsequential.
Speaking during legal proceedings at the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, Ekpa stated, “I am just a content creator; the issue of Prime Minister of Biafra is not serious.”
READ ALSO: National Assembly In Top Gear For Tinubu’s 2025 Budget Presentation
Ekpa’s statement comes in the wake of his arrest by Finnish authorities on charges related to incitement of terrorism.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has accused Ekpa of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
The arrest stems from an incident in Lahti on August 23, 2021, and officials are also seeking the detention of four other suspects linked to the case.
“The detention demands are related to a preliminary investigation in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent,” the NBI said in a statement.
Ekpa, who has used his social media platforms to advocate for Biafran independence, has been a divisive figure in Nigeria’s southeast region.
His rhetoric and actions, including calls for economic shutdowns through “sit-at-home” orders, have been linked to widespread unrest and disruptions in the region.
NEWS
National Assembly In Top Gear For Tinubu’s 2025 Budget Presentation
The National Assembly management team, led by Clerk Sani Magaji Tambawal, has ramped up efforts to ensure a seamless presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event, scheduled for a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, is regarded as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative calendar.
Preparations include a thorough inspection of the assembly chambers to ensure all facilities are fully functional.
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Deputy Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, who is overseeing the technical arrangements, confirmed that key systems, including microphones, sound equipment, and other audio-visual tools, have been tested to ensure smooth communication during the session.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the National Assembly is fully prepared to receive Mr. President and provide a conducive environment for this significant moment in our democratic process,” Ogunlana stated.
Seating arrangements are also being finalized to accommodate lawmakers, government officials, and other dignitaries expected at the session.
Security measures are being reviewed in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. Meanwhile, press accreditation is being managed to facilitate effective media coverage.
The 2025 budget presentation is expected to highlight the government’s economic priorities while reinforcing the partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.
As the session approaches, the National Assembly has expressed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and providing a platform for transparent governance.