DHQ finally honours Abu Ali, the lieutenant-colonel killed by Boko Haram in 2016 – Newstrends
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DHQ finally honours Abu Ali, the lieutenant-colonel killed by Boko Haram in 2016

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The defence headquarters (DHQ) has honoured Muhammad Abu Ali, a lieutenant-colonel and the then commanding officer of the 272 Task Force Tank Battalion, who was killed by Boko Haram in 2016.

On November 4, 2016, Ali was killed by Boko Haram insurgents when they attacked a 119 Battalion Nigerian army location at Mallam Fatori, Borno state.

Ali led one of the army’s fiercest-ever battles with Boko Haram in February 2015, culminating in the recapture of Baga town in Borno.

TheCable, in an editorial published on November 7, 2016, recommended that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government should name an army barracks or a school in Borno state after the fallen hero, among other recommendations.

The editorial also strongly recommended a posthumous national honour to Ali.

On Saturday, the DHQ, in a ceremony to commemorate Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary, honoured 12 officers and 12 soldiers for gallantry and professionalism.

The award of honour for Ali was received by Fatima Abu-Ali, his daughter, supported by Samira Abu-Ali, his widow.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lucky Irabor, chief of defence staff, rendered tribute to the late lieutenant-colonel for his dedication, gallantry and professionalism in commanding troops against insurgents in the north-east.

Irabor said the occasion is for members of the armed forces to share moments of joy with some of its personnel who had distinguished themselves on the battlefields.

He also commended the spouses of officers and soldiers who had dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.

The chief of defence staff said members of the armed forces are committed and resolute to the security challenges facing the country at the moment.

“As we celebrate our independence anniversary today, the armed forces of Nigeria is proud of its role and effort in the Nigerian project,” Irabor said.

“Indeed, at no other time in our nation’s history have members of the armed forces been so engaged as it relates to addressing the current myriad of security challenges in our dear country that threatened the very foundation of our unity, security and wellbeing.

“Rising up to this challenge, the armed forces had made tremendous sacrifices in answering the clarion call.

“The armed forces of Nigeria remain resolute and undaunted in the face of these challenges, and we shall be victorious.”

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I’m alive, Obasanjo reacts to death rumour 

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I’m alive, Obasanjo reacts to death rumour 

 

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has said he is alive, hale and hearty.

He stated this in reaction to rumours of his death being reportedly spread on some social media platforms.

He spoke in Osogbo, Osun State, during the inauguration of the Old-Garage/Oke-Fia Road reconstructed by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Obasanjo said those who wanted him dead were spreading the rumour of his death on the social media.

He said, “I heard the rumour that I was dead. I saw it on the social media. I quickly told my children and my relations that it was not true and that I’m alive.

“Those that want me dead, that is their wish, but God still keeps me alive.”

Obasanjo praised Adeleke for his performance in Osun and charged the governor to keep up the work.

Governor Adeleke assured the people of the state that his administration would complete all the ongoing projects.

“My dear people of Osun State, our administration has constructed over 120 kilometres of roads across the state.

“Two major flyovers are also progressing to completion at Osogbo while work is progressing at the Ile Ife Flyover and Ilesa dualisation.”

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Tinubu jets out to France on three-day visit

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Tinubu jets out to France on three-day visit

 

President Bola Tinubu will travel to France today (Wednesday) for a three-day state visit at the instance of the French president.

A statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed this.

It said, “The Nigerian leader’s three-day visit, which will focus on strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations and establishing more opportunities for partnership, particularly in agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement and employment, innovation, and energy transition, promises significant benefits for Nigeria.”

Onanuga said Tinubu and Macron would harmonise positions on stimulating more interest in exchange programmes that focus on skill development for youths and improving their competencies in automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.

“Both leaders will participate in political and diplomatic meetings highlighting shared values on finance, solid minerals, trade and investments, and communication,” he added.

“They will also witness a session by the France-Nigeria Business Council, which oversees private sector participation in economic development.”

The presidential adviser stated that the Nigerian first lady and her French counterpart would discuss solutions for empowering women, children, and the most vulnerable through the Renewed Hope initiative.

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Yahaya Bello reports to EFCC office with lawyers

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Yahaya Bello reports to EFCC office with lawyers

 

A former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday visited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to honour another invitation extended to him over alleged misappropriation of funds.

Bello went to the anti-graft office with his lawyers in the morning.

The ex-Kogi governor reportedly drove himself to the EFCC’s office in a black Toyota Hilux van with some lawyers.

He was said to have been taken by some operatives of the agency and are currently being grilled.

This is  coming after the Supreme Court judgment which dismissed a suit brought by some state governments challenging the constitutionality of the agency.

The EFCC at the last hearing on November 14, sought the adjournment till November 27 in the fresh case it instituted against Bello.

It stated that the 30-day window was still running for the summons earlier issued.

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