NEWS
NigComSat Deploys Satellites To Monitor Terrorism, Bandits, kidnapping In Nigeria
In a significant move to bolster national security, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Communications Satellite Ltd (NigComSat), announced that Nigeria is now deploying its satellite assets against terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.
This declaration was made during a media parley in Abuja ahead of the upcoming Satellite Week, which aims to highlight the transformative potential of satellite technology across various sectors in Nigeria.
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Egerton-Idehen expressed optimism that the deployment of satellite assets could lead to a resolution of the country’s pressing security challenges.
However, she refrained from disclosing specific details about the deployment due to security concerns.
“We are collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Defence Intelligence, Space Administration, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, among other stakeholders,” she said.
The objective of these collaborations is to leverage satellite technology to enhance connectivity in remote areas and ultimately ensure peace throughout Nigeria.
Highlighting Nigeria’s competitive edge, Egerton-Idehen noted that “very few countries have the kind of assets that we have, especially in the West African sub-region.”
She asserted that Nigeria is on a path to becoming a regional leader in satellite communications, aided by the support of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which she credited with reshaping the narrative of the satellite communications industry.
Mrs. Egerton-Idehen also confirmed that efforts to procure Satellite 2 are progressing well and are expected to be finalized soon.
As part of the initiatives to further engage stakeholders in the satellite industry, the Nigerian Satellite Week is set to bring together various players to explore the vast potential of satellite technology for economic and social development.
Since her appointment, Mrs. Egerton-Idehen has overseen a notable expansion of NigComSat TV Channels, increasing from approximately 45 to 105 channels, and boosting viewership from 2 million to 7 million.
“This event marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s satellite and space industry as we gather here to explore how communication satellites can be the driving force behind our nation’s sustainable development via diverse industries and initiatives,” she stated.
With this strategic focus on utilizing satellite technology, Nigeria aims to strengthen its security framework and enhance overall national development, marking a new chapter in the country’s approach to leveraging space technology for progress.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has inaugurated a 12-member committee tasked with recovering government vehicles reportedly in private hands.
The committee, led by Kelly Okungbowa, has been given a two-week mandate to retrieve the vehicles and ensure their return to the state government.
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Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of accountability in the management of public resources.
He urged the committee to carry out its assignment thoroughly and within the bounds of the law.
In his response, Okungbowa expressed gratitude to the governor for entrusting the team with the assignment, vowing to deliver results within the stipulated timeframe.
“A lot of vehicles used by the past administration are missing, as those in custody of the vehicles have refused to return them,” Okungbowa said.
“The governor deemed it fit to inaugurate us today with a mandate to recover all government vehicles in private hands.”
The committee, which includes representatives from Edo’s three senatorial districts, is set to investigate and recover the vehicles based on credible intelligence already at their disposal.
“We already have vital information regarding some persons still holding government vehicles,” Okungbowa stated. “We will do the job according to the law, and both the government and the people will be satisfied with the outcome.”
He also called on members of the public to assist the committee by providing information about any government vehicles that may still be in private possession.
“We want to appeal to members of the public who might be aware of anyone still keeping government vehicles in their houses to please inform us to enable the committee to recover such for the Edo State Government,” Okungbowa said.
The committee’s vice chairman, Rt. Hon. Victor Edoror, a former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, will work alongside other members to ensure the success of the initiative. The public can reach the committee at 08110165121.
To address Nigeria’s ₦9.7 trillion budget deficit for the 2024 fiscal year, the Senate has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request to secure a ₦1.77 trillion ($2.2 billion) loan.
The decision was made during Thursday’s plenary session, where a voice vote confirmed the approval following the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts.
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Chaired by Senator Wammako Magatarkada (APC, Sokoto North), the committee endorsed the loan request as a vital step in managing the country’s fiscal challenges.
Recall that President Tinubu had submitted the proposal earlier in the week, outlining the loan as a crucial component of his administration’s external borrowing strategy.
Details shortly…………..
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, has been arrested by Finnish authorities on allegations of inciting terrorist activities.
The Päijät-Häme District Court ordered his detention following an incident that reportedly occurred in Lahti on August 23, 2021.
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The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is also seeking the arrest of four other individuals in connection with the case. Officials say the charges involve public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
“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 police said in a statement.
Details regarding the additional suspects or the specifics of the alleged crimes remain unclear as the investigation continues. Authorities have emphasized the sensitive nature of the case, stating that further information will be disclosed as the inquiry progresses.
This development marks a significant step in Finland’s efforts to combat terrorism and ensure public safety.
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