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UNDP Fostering Peace, National cohesion To Enhance Nation Building In Nigeria

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By Gloria Ikibah 
 
 
Nigeria as a nation has experienced spates of civil unrest, insecurity arising from insurgency, kidnapping, banditry in the last decade and this has resulted in economic hardship, disunity among others. 
 
 
According to Matthew Alao, Team Lead, Governance, Peace and Security at the United Nations Development Programme UNDP, parents must start from their wards and children by addressing leadership from the family unit.
 
 
Alao who stated this at the graduation ceremony of the Leadership and National Cohesion Course 01 of 2024, at the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State, asserted that  effective leadership and national cohesion are critical for fostering stability, progress, and prosperity within our great nation.
 
 
According to Alao, the principles of leadership and national cohesion learned by the participation are not just theoretical concepts but are practical tools that can drive real change in our diverse communities. 
 
 
”Leadership start with us as parent that brings little children to this world. Leadership starts from grassroots.
 
 
”Unfortunately, we have lost it. Nigeria today is very individualistic. It’s all about i and my family. And this is leading us to no where. This is why this course is very critical at this moment.
 
 
”If nothing is done to address the leadership deficit from the family unit, from the community unit and community level, we are not going anywhere. Money can not save our society,” he said.
 
 
 
Everybody is looking for downfall of our leadership. We don’t build up by looking for downfall of our leaders”, he stated.
 
 
No doubt in the world today effective leadership and national cohesion cannot be overemphasised. Nigeria today is faced with diverse challenges from economic crisis, political divides to security challenges, Alao said at such times leaders are needed who will aspire, unite, mobilise communities towards common goals and this is what the participants have been equipped with. 
 
 
The graduation is a significant step towards the advancement of peace, security, and unity within our beloved nation, Nigeria and ECOWAS sub-region and Africa at large. 
 
 
Participants for the training were drawn from the Armed Forces, Paramilitary, Civil Society Organisations and have shown commitment all through the programme. 
 
 
“Over the past two weeks, you have dedicated yourselves to an intensive programme that not only on leadership skills but also fosters an understanding of the essential tenets of national cohesion.
 
 
“Your presence here signifies a commitment to making Nigeria a better, more unified country.
 
 
”Today, we recognize your accomplishments and the bright future that lies ahead.
 
 
”I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Commandant and his team of instructors and resource persons at the Centre for your unwavering commitment to equipping our future leaders.
 
 
”Also acknowledge the generous financial support and strong partnership of the Government of Japan,” he said
 
 
UNDP Representative reiterated that the funding and partnership made the course possible, even as he said dedication to promoting peace and stability in the continent, ECOWAS and Nigeria was deeply appreciated.
 
 
He believes that “Together, we are working towards a brighter and more unified future for our planet”.
 
 
In the last three years the African Continent has experienced 7 coup detat in Mali (two coups in 9 months -August 18, 2020 and May 24, 2021), Sudan (Sudan -October 25, 2021 and April 15, 2023), Niger (July 26, 2023) Burkina Faso (two putsches in 8 months -January 24 and September 30, 2022), and Guinea (September 5, 2021), disrupting democratic governance in the region, bringing about economic hardship and underdevelopment. 
 
 
This leadership course is the brain child of past commandant of the MLAILPKC, Major General Obinna, an it was born as a result of the spate of the coup that was happening in the West Africa sub-region. 
 
 
“They felt that providing a leadership training to the middle level military and civilian is an antidote to it. They felt that  because that quality training, that orientation on subordination is weakening in the military and political space of west Africa. They felt that UNDP with the funding that is made available by government of Japan  is sponsoring it”, Alao explained.
 
 
The Chief of Training, Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Sani Mohammed, who was represented Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry, noted that the collaborative effort between MLAILPKC and the Japanese Government through the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) gave raise to the course.
 
 
According to him, a country without national integration was often implied as the country deprived of social cohesion, sense of nationalism and with a failed socio-politico-economy; and in bringing up these values, there lies a strong leadership role
 
 
The Chief of Training further revealed that the overall objective of the course was to develop human capacity to equip the participants to be able to handle challenges that arises with leadership.
 
 
“It was aimed at identifying, analyzing and evaluating the drivers of disunity, disintegration and insurrection in the polity in order to provide a pathway for national integration and cohesion”, he added. 
 
 
The Leadership and National Cohesion Course was also aimed at equipping participants to become role models in their various establishments and in addition, good ambassadors of the MLAILPKC.
 
 
The Commandant of the Centre Major General Ademola Adedoja, said the course was designed to provide the participants with the skills and knowledge required to operate effectively in a complex dynamic multi-disciplinary, multi- cultural and religious environment.
 
 
“As you graduate today, as the pioneers of the LNC, please know you are vanguards of improved Leadership and National Cohesion.
 
 
“You must always remember that so much has been given to you and as such, so much is expected from you as trained Leadership and National Cohesion Officers, “Adedoja said.
 
 
As the participants embark on this new chapter od nation building, ut is a call to remain steadfast in their commitment to the principles of peace, security and national cohesion.
 
 
It is a time to engage their various communities to foster dialogues, and build networks of trust and cooperation.
 
 
More than ever they must strive to be change makers who bridge divides, heal wounds, respect boundaries and create a more inclusive and harmonious society, but also having in mind their actions can have ripple effects that will transform lives and strengthen Nigeria as a nation.
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UNN Dismisses Report Of Mass Abduction Of Students

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The management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has dismissed a social media report alleging an impending terrorist attack and mass abduction of students on its Nsukka campus, describing the claim as false and unverified.

The university said there is no credible security intelligence or verified threat supporting the online post currently circulating among students and members of the public.

In a statement issued by the acting public relations officer of the institution, Inya Agha Egwu, the management said the report is unsubstantiated and should be disregarded.

Egwu, however, said the university has taken precautionary measures to further strengthen security across the campus in line with its commitment to the safety of students, staff, and visitors.

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According to him, the measures include the deployment of personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army to key entry points, working alongside the university’s internal security unit.

He added that some access gates to the Nsukka campus would be temporarily closed to improve monitoring and control of movement in and out of the institution.

The statement also announced the suspension of motorcycle operations within the campus, adding that only authorised security personnel would be allowed to use motorcycles inside the university premises.

Staff who commute using motorcycles were advised to park them at designated areas outside the campus before proceeding to their workplaces.

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Egwu urged members of the university community to remain calm and continue their normal academic and administrative activities without fear.

He also warned against the spread of unverified information, noting that such reports could create unnecessary panic and disrupt the peace of the institution.

“Members of the University community are urged not to spread unverified information capable of creating unnecessary anxiety,” he said.

The university further encouraged students and staff to report any suspicious activity to security authorities, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.

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Sowore Faults MTN CEO’s Claim On Unlimited Data, Threatens Nationwide Protest

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Activist and African Action Congress (AAC) 2027 presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has challenged claims by the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, that unlimited mobile data plans are virtually non-existent globally unless subscribers pay extremely high fees.

Sowore, in a post on his X handle on Sunday, described the MTN boss’s assertion as false, insisting that millions of consumers across the world have access to unlimited or effectively unlimited mobile and broadband data plans at prices he said are more affordable relative to local incomes than what Nigerians currently pay.

The activist’s reaction came after Toriola made the remarks during a press conference titled: “Data on Trial” held in Lagos where the MTN chief argued that unlimited data plans are not sustainable on mobile networks without compromising service quality.

“The issue of unlimited data on mobile network, it does not exist anywhere in the world, except you are paying $400 a month or whatever. There are high bundles and fair usage policies,” Toriola said.

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He added that network capacity constraints make unrestricted data offerings impractical at low prices.

“On mobile networks, it does not really exist. There is a limit, because you can never build enough capacity for everyone to be on an unlimited bundle and you think you will provide quality service that will be decent,” he said.

Responding, Sowore dismissed the claim, insisting it does not reflect global market realities.

“Liars,” Sowore wrote.

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He argued that many countries still provide consumers with unlimited or near-unlimited data plans at relatively affordable rates compared to income levels.

“Millions of consumers around the world enjoy truly unlimited or effectively unlimited broadband and mobile data plans at prices that are often cheaper, relative to income, than what Nigerians pay for far less service,” he said.

Sowore also criticised the quality and cost of telecommunications services in Nigeria, calling for improved consumer outcomes.

“Nigerians deserve affordable, reliable, and genuinely consumer-friendly telecommunications services, not endless tariff hikes, poor network quality, and excuses,” he wrote.

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He further escalated his position, hinting at possible mass action against the telecom operator.

“The time to #OCCUPYMTN nationwide is fast approaching!” he added.

The exchange comes amid renewed public debate over telecommunications pricing in Nigeria following tariff adjustments approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Earlier in 2025, the regulator approved increases of up to 50 per cent in voice, SMS, and data tariffs, citing inflationary pressures, naira depreciation, and the need to sustain investment in the sector.

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MTN Nigeria has defended the adjustments, maintaining that Nigeria remains among the cheapest markets globally for mobile data services despite the increases.

However, critics, including Sowore, argue that consumers in several countries continue to enjoy better service quality and more affordable unlimited data offerings, intensifying the debate across social media platforms.

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Only authorised agencies can enforce laws, Ramaphosa condemns Xenophobia

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated his government’s commitment to lawful migration management, stressing that violence, intimidation, xenophobia and the spread of misinformation have no place in the country.

Addressing the nation on Sunday, Ramaphosa outlined actions and behaviours that he said are unacceptable, including unauthorised individuals demanding documentation or proof of nationality, blocking access to public services, and acts of violence against foreign nationals.

The President also condemned racism, sexism, xenophobia, Afrophobia and other forms of intolerance, as well as the spread of misinformation, incitement and fake news on social media.

According to Ramaphosa, employers who exploit undocumented workers are equally engaging in conduct that cannot be accepted.

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“Only authorised law enforcement agencies may act against violations of the law,” the President said, adding that “all people must be treated with dignity and respect,” regardless of their nationality or immigration status.

Ramaphosa also announced the adoption of a Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management aimed at strengthening border security, enforcing immigration laws, tackling corruption and closing policy loopholes as part of efforts to address illegal immigration in South Africa.

The President said the plan was approved by Cabinet last week and endorsed by the President’s Coordinating Council, which comprises premiers, local government representatives and traditional leaders.

“As government our objective is clear. We want a South Africa where every person who enters the country does so lawfully; a South Africa where immigration laws are respected and enforced; a South Africa where businesses compete fairly; a South Africa where communities feel safe and secure, and a South Africa that remains true to its constitutional values and its commitment to human dignity,” he said.

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According to Ramaphosa, the strategy is built on five pillars: cracking down on violations of immigration and labour laws, preventing illegal entry into the country, rooting out corruption in the immigration system, strengthening immigration laws and policies, and enhancing cooperation with other countries to address migration challenges across the region and continent.

On enforcement, the President said government agencies would intensify efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals residing illegally in the country.

“The Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies have been and will intensify the process of identifying and deporting undocumented foreign nationals residing illegally in South Africa,” he said.

Highlighting progress already made, Ramaphosa disclosed that “in the past year alone, the BMA managed to intercept and stop over 450,000 people who were attempting to enter South Africa illegally.”

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He also announced plans to establish dedicated immigration courts to accelerate deportation processes involving undocumented migrants.

The President said the second pillar of the strategy focuses on strengthening border management and ensuring authorities know who enters the country, why they are entering and how long they are permitted to stay.

“Secure borders are not a sign of hostility towards other countries. They are a fundamental requirement of a sovereign and well-governed State,” Ramaphosa said.

He added that government would continue investing in modern technology, infrastructure and personnel to secure borders while facilitating legitimate trade, travel and economic activity.

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As part of the measures, the government will begin a phased relocation of refugee reception centres to border posts, starting with the Tshwane centre later this year.

Ramaphosa said the third pillar centres on eliminating corruption and improving the efficiency of the immigration system through technology-driven reforms.

“We are continuing the crackdown on corruption and inefficiencies in the Department of Home Affairs.

“We must recognise that illegal immigration is often enabled by corruption. Officials who sell documents, facilitate unlawful entry or abuse public office for personal gain betray the trust of the South African people. We will pursue these cases relentlessly.”

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According to the President, officials implicated in such offences are already facing disciplinary and criminal action.

“Those responsible are facing dismissal, criminal prosecution and the full consequences of the law,” he said.

Ramaphosa also cited the establishment of an Intelligent Population Register containing biometric data for every person in the country, describing it as a key step towards the introduction of a Digital ID system.

He said efforts to phase out the green ID book would continue, noting that the document remains vulnerable to identity theft and abuse.

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The Department of Home Affairs, he said, would soon announce a deadline after which the green ID book would no longer be recognised.

The President further revealed that the move would help curb abuse of the Traffic Registration Number, which foreign nationals require to register or purchase vehicles.

“The Department of Transport will issue new regulations to align with the identification laws of our country within the next three months,” he said.

Addressing legislative reforms, Ramaphosa acknowledged weaknesses in South Africa’s immigration framework.

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“The laws that regulate immigration in South Africa are fragmented and often contradictory. They allow legal loopholes that are exploited by undocumented migrants. We are addressing these loopholes,” he said.

On regional cooperation, the President stressed the need for African countries to work together to tackle the root causes of migration.

“We need to address the factors that drive migration on our continent and elsewhere,” Ramaphosa said.

He added that South Africa would continue collaborating with neighbouring countries and other African nations to create conditions where migration is driven by choice rather than necessity.

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“As part of this effort, I will be sending envoys to a number of sister African countries to outline the measures that we are announcing this evening,” he said.

Ramaphosa assured citizens that Cabinet would continue monitoring implementation of the migration strategy and regularly review progress on the measures announced.

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