FG to Partner with NACCS in Combating Insecurity
In a significant move aimed at bolstering the country’s fight against insecurity, the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has outlined the federal government’s commitment to partner with the National Council for Civil Society of Nigeria (NACCS). This collaboration highlights the pivotal role of civil society organizations in enhancing security measures across the nation.
During a productive meeting with the National Council’s delegation, led by Comrade Johnny Emmanuel, Minister Badaru lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s comprehensive initiatives designed to rejuvenate the Nigerian economy. The meeting, held at the minister’s office in Ship House, provided a platform for discussion on the critical contributions of civil society to national security, emphasizing their connectivity with local communities, intelligence gathering capabilities, and their integral role in mediation and delivery of humanitarian aid in conflict zones.
The Honourable Minister underscored the administration’s dedication to economic revitalization through the implementation of robust policies. He proudly noted the initial successes of these strategies, drawing attention to the impressive economic growth recorded in the first quarter of 2024, heralding it as the second-fastest growth rate for a first quarter in the latest six-year period. Further, he accredited the Defence strategy with significantly improving the nation’s security landscape.
Beyond these achievements, Minister Badaru highlighted a suite of other pivotal initiatives, including:
- The Nigerian Student Loan Scheme, aimed at broadening access to higher education
- The establishment of a Livestock Ministry to mitigate conflicts between herders and farmers
- The launch of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF) to boost infrastructure funding
- The policy enabling the sale of crude oil to local refining companies in Naira
- The enactment of the National Minimum Wage Act
- The grant of autonomy to Local Governments, enhancing accountability and facilitating development
- Significant steps such as zero tariffs and duties on imports of essential raw materials and active pharmaceutical ingredients
- The distribution of grains across the states and other impactful social security interventions
“I urge Nigerians to remain patient. The President has introduced numerous innovations to bolster the economy. With only one year in office, his achievements are commendable. We are confident that these initiatives will soon yield substantial benefits,” Minister Badaru expressed optimistically.
Comrade Johnny Emmanuel, the National President of the NACCS, praised the Minister for his exceptional dedication and service. Reflecting on the Minister’s tenure as Governor, Emmanuel referred to him as a “Calculator,” a nickname earned through his meticulous resource management in Jigawa State.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of an award to Minister Badaru, in recognition of his unwavering commitment, patriotism, and integrity in service. This event marks a significant step forward in the collaborative efforts between the federal government and civil societies, underscoring a united front in combating insecurity and fostering a prosperous, secure Nigeria.
