News
Nigeria Calls on African Union to Intensify Crackdown on Terror Financing
By Derick Peretengboro
The Federal Government has urged the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council to strengthen efforts aimed at disrupting the financial networks that sustain terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.
Nigeria made the appeal during the 1354th Ministerial Meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council, where the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, stressed that eliminating illicit financial flows remains one of the most effective ways to weaken terrorist organisations.
According to the minister, extremist groups rely heavily on illegal sources of funding to recruit fighters, purchase sophisticated weapons and expand their operations across the continent. She noted that cutting off these financial channels would significantly reduce the capacity of such groups to carry out attacks.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also called for stronger collaboration among African countries and international partners in tracing, recovering and returning proceeds of illicit financial activities hidden in foreign jurisdictions. She said greater intelligence sharing and coordinated financial investigations are essential to tackling terrorism effectively.
The minister warned that terrorist organisations are increasingly taking advantage of modern technology, including drones and digital platforms, while generating income through kidnapping for ransom, illegal mining and other criminal enterprises.
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional and international cooperation in addressing security threats, adding that the country has adopted a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy that combines military operations with non-military initiatives such as youth empowerment, education, infrastructure development and community engagement.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said sustained security operations have weakened the operational strength of Boko Haram and ISWAP in several affected communities, while efforts are also ongoing to identify and prosecute terrorism financiers, as well as rehabilitate and reintegrate former insurgents who have surrendered.
She further highlighted Nigeria’s cooperation with neighbouring countries through the ECOWAS Regional Counter-Terrorism Strategy, improved intelligence exchange, enhanced border surveillance and joint security operations.
Describing the Multinational Joint Task Force as a successful model of regional security cooperation, the minister urged African governments to strengthen cybersecurity, improve early warning systems, disrupt terrorist financing networks and establish ethical guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in counter-terrorism efforts.
She also appealed to the international community to adopt a zero-tolerance approach by preventing non-state actors from gaining access to weapons, ammunition, drones and other technologies that could be used to fuel insecurity across the continent.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
-
Social2 months agoNAIS – Northern Nigeria/Abuja Chapter Honours Amb. Ebi Lagos with Award of Recognition
-
Breaking3 months ago2027: INEC Alegedly Announces Plans to Conduct Party Primaries in the Newly Created State Constituencies in Warri North and Warri Southwest LGAs, Others
-
News1 month agoPAP: EX-AGITATORS OF BOYLOAF CAMP DISTANCE SELVES FROM THEIR LEADERS ONSLAUGHT ON THE PAP ADMINISTRATOR
-
Local News4 months agoJust In: Ambassador Podoki Emerges APP Candidate for Burutu Constituency-I Assembly Seat
-
Politics3 months ago2027: Mulade Challenges NDC’s Substitution of His Party Candidacy, Demands ₦5 Billion Damages
-
Breaking3 months agoTinubu Intervenes in Warri Delineation Dispute, Meets Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri Leaders
-
Local News4 months agoINC: Group Faults Sponsored Attacks on Tompolo, Igbadiwei, Urges Unity in Ijaw Nation
-
Entertainment2 months agoJKing Logistics Coordinator Shed Light to Address Ijaw Music Wage Controversy