News
NDLEA Moves Operations to Newly Built Facility in Abuja
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially relocated its headquarters to a new facility in Jahi, Abuja, marking a significant step in its transformation into a modern and result-oriented anti-narcotics organization.
The first phase of the new headquarters project was unveiled on Wednesday during an interdenominational service held at the complex. The event highlighted the progress made in the development of the facility, which is expected to be completed with the 2025 budgetary provisions.
Speaking at the ceremony, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the move as a milestone in the agency’s modernization efforts that began in January 2021.
“I’m glad we have finally moved in to occupy this facility after initial budgetary constraints. Even though this is the first phase of the new headquarters project, we are hopeful that we will complete the process with next year’s budget,” Marwa said.
He acknowledged that while the new headquarters is not yet 100% complete, it is sufficiently functional to host critical operations.
“I was determined to move in before the end of 2024. With the expansion of the agency, the old headquarters could no longer accommodate our growing workforce. This relocation allows us to consolidate our operations for greater efficiency, effectiveness, and seamless coordination.”
Marwa added that the old office in Gimbiya, Garki, will now serve as the headquarters annex. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support of the agency’s mission to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
“The support from international partners, local stakeholders, and especially President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary, motivates us to do more. I believe this new work environment will inspire the team to surpass past achievements,” Marwa stated.
He also commended his predecessor for initiating the headquarters project.
In his remarks, NDLEA Secretary Shadrach Haruna praised Marwa’s transformative leadership, noting that the agency had achieved significant milestones over the past three years.
“The commissioning of our headquarters today is part of the well-laid agenda for repositioning the NDLEA. Under the chairman’s leadership, the agency has increased its staff strength from 5,000 to 15,000, addressed outstanding promotions and allowances, supported widows of fallen officers, and witnessed the recent amendment of the NDLEA Act by the National Assembly,” Haruna said.
Christian and Islamic prayers were offered for President Tinubu and Nigeria, while a commemorative plaque was unveiled to mark the occasion.
News
Oseni Supports Ibadan Mosque Project with N20m
The lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, has donated the sum of N20 million to support the construction of the new Lalupon Central Mosque project.
Contained in a statement on Sunday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the generous donation, aimed at promoting religious harmony and community development, was made during the turbaning ceremony and launching of a N150 million endowment fund for the mosque’s completion. The event took place at Lalupon Central Primary School, Ibadan, and was graced by religious leaders, community members, and dignitaries.
Speaking at the event, Oseni, who also chairs the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), emphasised the importance of supporting initiatives that foster unity and strengthen faith within communities.
“This is more than just a building; it is a symbol of faith, togetherness, and hope for future generations,” the lawmaker stated. “It is my honour and duty to contribute to a project that holds such profound significance for the people of Lalupon,” he added.
Leaders of the Lalupon Muslim Community commended the lawmaker for his generosity, describing the gesture as a testament to his dedication to the welfare of his people.
They noted that his contribution would significantly accelerate the progress of the mosque project.
The new Lalupon Central Mosque, once completed, is expected to serve as a hub for spiritual activities and a unifying space for the Muslim community in the area.
News
Rep Oseni Urges Unity, Compassion in Christmas Message to Nigerians
As Nigerians celebrate Christmas amidst festivities and reflections, the Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo state, Engr. Aderemi Oseni has sent a heartfelt message to Nigerians, emphasising the importance of unity, compassion, and selflessness in nation-building.
In his Christmas message on Wednesday, contained in a statement by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to journalists in Ibadan, the lawmaker described the season as a time to reflect on the love and sacrifice demonstrated by the birth of Jesus Christ.
He urged citizens to embrace the spirit of giving, kindness, and shared humanity that Christmas symbolises.
“Christmas is a season of hope, joy, and renewal,” Oseni said. “It reminds us of our shared duty to show love to one another, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliations. Let us work together to foster unity and peace in our country, especially as we navigate through challenging times.”
The lawmaker also highlighted the significance of collective responsibility in nation-building.
“As we celebrate, we must remember the less privileged in our communities. Acts of charity and kindness, no matter how small, can make a significant impact on someone’s life,” he added.
The APC chieftain expressed gratitude to his constituents in Ibarapa East/Ido for their unwavering support, assuring them of his commitment to delivering more impactful governance.
He also called for patience and cooperation as the government works towards addressing issues affecting the nation, including infrastructure development, economic stability, and security.
“Let this Christmas inspire us to continue building bridges of hope and fostering the true Nigerian spirit of togetherness,” he stated.
As the year draws to a close, Oseni encouraged Nigerians to remain optimistic about the nation’s future, assuring them that better days lie ahead with collective effort and unwavering faith.
News
NCAA Sanctions Five Airlines Over Regulatory Breaches
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has initiated enforcement action against five airlines—two international and three domestic operators—for various violations of its regulations under Part 19.
The offenses include non-payment of passenger refunds within the stipulated timeframe, non-responsiveness to NCAA directives, mishandling of luggage, short-landed baggage, delayed and canceled flights, among other infractions.
Addressing journalists at the NCAA’s corporate headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Michael Achimugu, the Authority’s spokesman, stated that airlines must adhere to regulations regarding flight disruptions. He emphasized that failure to comply attracts sanctions.
“Although airlines are not always responsible for flight disruptions, NCAA regulations stipulate actions that airlines must take during such incidents. Failure to comply attracts various levels of sanctions,” Achimugu said.
He reminded airlines of the NCAA’s recent directive mandating refunds to passengers within 14 days for online ticket purchases and immediate cash refunds for tickets bought with cash.
The yuletide season has seen a rise in passenger complaints about delays and cancellations, largely attributed to harmattan-induced poor visibility. Achimugu clarified that airlines are not liable for cancellations due to force majeure but stressed that the enforcement actions are for cases where airlines are found at fault.
“This is harmattan season, so there is poor visibility. Flights must get canceled. This is force majeure, and the airlines do not owe passengers anything in those instances. The enforcement we are initiating today is on cases where the airline is deemed to have been at fault. More will come,” he explained.
Achimugu further disclosed that the NCAA would summon the chief executives of all airlines this week to address flight disruptions and regulatory breaches.
While the names of the sanctioned airlines were not officially revealed, sources close to the Authority identified them as Ethiopian Airways, Royal Maroc Airways, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace.
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