Experts in information world have offered ideas on how best the military and other uniformed personnel can synergize with media and media practitioners in the dissemination of information for harmonious relationship, amidst the security challenges facing the country. Taking a shot at the topic during a RoundTable session on Asymmetric security challenges, held in Abuja, Professor Okey Ikechukwu, mni. insisted on the need for media to be always factored into the plans of the military for the purpose of winning the hearts and minds of Nigerians. This was even as Waziri Adio highlighted the centrality of media to the security issues. Adio spoke on the need for synergy between the media and the military. He identified, among others, issues such as an engagement plan as a strategy, saying that it is all about what you need from whom, when and how? He stressed the need to understand the lay of the (media) land: ecosystem and its configuration “Need to understand them: who are they, how are they wired, and how do they make decisions? “Need to broaden the field of engagement: going beyond correspondents to decision-makers: publishers/owners, editors, columnists, anchors… “Need to consistently nurture the relationship: Noah’s analogy. Preparation. Briefings. Consultations. “Need to be proactive in shaping narrative: Banex example “Need to know the limits: they can’t always do your bidding (most that can get sometimes is to reflect your own side or downplay)” Also, the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Ndace, specifically canvassed for the incorporation of media planing as part of the highlights in the first day of the event. Again, communication, media as well as gender issues formed focal point in day two of the event, held at the Army Resource Centre in partnership with Development Specs Academy. Those who spoke on communication Media and gender include retired Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, mni who was spokesman of Nigerian Army; Malam Ali Mohammed Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN); Professor Biodun Adeniyi of Baze University and Margaret Agbo of Development Specs Academy, who addressed the gender sensitive communication. Retired Brigadier General Usman, the former Army Spokesman noted in his presentation, that the the impact of non-violent communication (NVC) on national security in Nigeria is profound. “By fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding, NVC contributes to: “Stability: Improved army-civilian relations lead to greater stability within communities, reducing the likelihood of insurgencies and civil unrest. “Collaboration: Enhanced communication and trust enable more effective collaboration between the military and civilian populations in addressing security challenges. “Human Rights Protection: NVC encourages the military to engage with civilians in ways that respect human rights and dignity, reducing incidences of abuse and violence.” Ali M. Ali, in his presentation, said inter Alia, “If what we have endured are the often negative and sometimes tragic outcomes of infodemics, misinformation and fake news, how can communication specialists, some of whom are gathered here, sustainably mitigate the damage wrought by adversarial report as well as manage information in a way that will promote the public good?” He said offered solutions, which include the fact that we must uphold truthfulness and accuracy in combating infodemics, misinformation and fake news if we are to build trust with the public. “The authenticity of a message reinforces that copy or communication. When people perceive the message to be authentic, they tend to believe it the more and show understanding. Genuineness or sincerity is critical in winning the people over. “For example, through sustained information outflows by certain institutions (Army, Police, first emergency responders, Lagos government etc,) the Lekki Gate false narratives during the #EndSARS protest was debunked as a ” massacre without bodies! “We must also be timely in countering misinformation. This entails striking a balance between speedily responding and the volume of information available. A burning issue should not be allowed to fester before we react although there are times when silence is said to be golden until an auspicious time when a valid response would be desirable. “Because misinformation and fake news are crafted to be sensational, we must also craft our responses in an interesting manner that would attract attention given the crowded media space and the competition for attention. “We must also work with friendly media influencers who are credible and have the capacity to push out copies which grab media attention. “Regular communication through constant engagements is critical, especially for institutions of state. They must always talk to the people and not the people begging them to react to issues as they break. In effect, we must be proactive rather than reactive in communication. “Institutions of state in particular must promote digital literacy among their communications professionals, especially now that the media landscape is constantly in a state of flux.” On his part, Professor Adeniyi took a look at the issues of reporting security related matter. “Public Interest: Assess whether the story serves the public interest. “Harm Minimisation: Weigh the potential harm to individuals and communities against the public’s need to know. “Informed Consent: Seek consent from individuals involved, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations.” Gender Sensitive Communication Margaret Agbo who spoke on gender sensitive communication asserted: ”Our use of gender-biased language is sometimes designed to deliberately give offence, but not always. Whether intended to give offence or not, gender-biased use of language tends towards social exclusion and not inclusion. “Gender inclusive communication on the other hand, reduces discrimination and makes everyone feel that he or she is part of a team or group of equal parts. It reenforces group cohesion, collaboration, team work and reduces conflict. It also strengthens self confidence among the individual and promotes forward looking social change. Egs… “In order to improve gender sensitive communication, we must avoid gender stereotypes, exclusionary terms, unequal forms of address, and gender inequity through titles and labels. She concluded by outlining what she termed steps toward gender sensitive communication thus: “Training of communication personnel to raise awareness about gender biases and stereotypes. ”Develop and explain gender neutral expressions that could be used to substitute gender biased notions and culturally induced gender stereotypes. “Entrenched commitment to equity through non-discriminatory practices as official policy. “Avoid the use of negative gender-specific terms as a matter of course.”
“People are tired, hungry and unemployed and they (government) keep pushing these punitive taxes.” A 28-year-old Hanifa Farsafi, who joined in the protest against tax hike bill by the Kenyan government told newsmen amidst police struggle to halt the massive protest, in which many people have lost their lives and hundreds were injured. She added: “everyone is coming out (to protest) because we’re tired (of the hardships in the country)” The country’s Defence Minister, Aden Duale had said in the official gazette that Kenya’s army had been deployed to support the police in controlling the “security emergency” which has resulted in the “destruction and breaching of critical infrastructure.” The United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has expressed “deep concern” by the deadly violence. His spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, quoted him as saying that he was very much saddened by the reports of deaths and injuries, including journalists and medical personnel. The youth-led protest Yesterday was the third round of protests against the bill.
Two people were killed last week during demonstrations – one hit by a gunshot and another by a tear gas canister. The protests erupted last week, largely led by young activists, as the tax hikes – the second in as many years sought by Ruto’s government – stirred anger over the price rises they would incur on basics such as diapers and sanitary towels. Amendments to the bill, which removed some of the more stringent proposals, like a bread tax, have failed to assuage protesters. Parliament approved the finance bill, moving it through to a third reading by lawmakers. The next step is for the legislation to be sent to the president for signing. He can send it back to Parliament if he has any objections. Last year, when there was a similar tax hike, he had signed it immediately.
Kenya is boiling as youths occupied vital areas of the country, vehemently protesting tax hike bill. Reports reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper and hardcopy magazine in Abuja said that several people have already been killed as Kenyan police open fire on the anti-tax bill protesters. It was gathered that parts of parliament building were set ablaze as protesters storm the complex in the country’s capital, Nairobi. Police were said to have fired live rounds at protesters trying to storm Kenya’s legislature, where lawmakers voted to pass a contentious finance bill that would hike taxes. Thousands of people joined the youth-led demonstration in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, yesterday, June 25, to demand that lawmakers vote against the bill amid soaring tensions over a cost-of-living crisis in the country. But the legislators voted to pass the bill, as some of the Lawmakers escaped from the chamber through perimeter fence, as protesters breached the complex of the Parliament. Parts of the Parliament building were set ablaze. It was gathered that police eventually managed to drive the protesters from the building amid clouds of tear gas and the sound of gunfire. The lawmakers were evacuated through underground tunnels, local media reported. At least five people were reportedly killed and 31 others were wounded. The Kenya Medical Association and several other NGOs said in a statement, said that of the wounded, 13 had been shot with live bullets and four with rubber bullets. “Despite the assurance by the government that the right to assembly would be protected and facilitated, today’s protests have spiraled into violence,” the groups said. Kenyan President, William Ruto said that the security of Kenyans remained his “utmost priority.” President Ruto described the deadly protests as “treasonous,” adding that the debate over the tax increases had been “hijacked by dangerous people.” Source: Al Jazeera.
A Judge of the Oyo State Judiciary, Justice Adegboye Gbolagunte, is dead, aged about 65.
His death was made known yesterday, June 25, in a statement by his eldest son, Oladiran.
The statement said that Justice Gbolagunte died on Monday, June 24, after a brief illness in an Oyo hospital. It said that the deceased, until his death, was serving in the Oyo State High Court. The the statement said that Justice Gbolagunte, who was born on December 10, 1959, left behind his wife, Wuraola; son, Oladiran, a Digital Technologist with specialisation in Network Communications; a daughter, Oladoyin, a lawyer and an accountant; and another son, Oladotun, also a lawyer. The statement said that the family appreciated those who have paid condolence visits, first among who was the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Subulade Yerima, who was received by wife of the deceased. The Publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo, who is the younger brother of Wuraola Gbolagunte, was present when the Chief Judge visited. The statement said that a condolence register has since been opened at the home of the Gbolaguntes and at the headquarters of the Oyo State Judiciary in Ibadan. It narrated that before he joined the bench, Justice Gbolagunte started out as a journalist, having studied Mass Communications at the University of Lagos. After getting his degree in Law, from the University of Ibadan, he continued with his lecturing at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State and practiced as a lawyer both in Lagos and Oyo States. The statement said that his family played a huge role in the siting of a campus of The Polytechnic, Ibadan in Eruwa, where they hail from. His father, Chief Davidson Mokolade Gbolagunte, a former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly in the defunct Second Republic, was instrumental in this. Late Justice Gbolagunte also lectured law and law related courses at The Polytechnic, Ibadan; Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos; and Radio Nigeria Training School, Sogunle, Lagos State at different times before 1995.
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso has again, expressed the determination of the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to tame inflation through conventional methods. Cardoso, who spoke today June 25, in an interview with Bloomberg in London, said that the Bank would focus on the stability of the Naira and inflation rates. He stressed a deceleration in the month-on-month inflation rates, saying that it is a positive development. He gave assurance that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members would remain vigilant in monitoring inflation trends and ensure a moderation of inflation numbers. “MPC members will continue to monitor the trajectory and are determined to ensure that they put inflation under control.” He highlighted a period of stability following previous volatility in the foreign exchange market and expressed optimism about the recent improvements in liquidity and return of confidence to the market. He attributed the new development to increased liquidity and a calmer approach from market participants on both the buy and sell sides. “In the past, people were panicking and front-loading their requests,” he explained, stressing: “now, a lot of that has calmed down. “There’s no inclination to do that because liquidity has returned to the market.” Cardoso also highlighted the significant achievement of merging disparate exchange rates into a more unified system. “We had two different rates; right now, we more or less have one rate. “And we believe that this is good. It allows companies to plan,” he stated, emphasising the importance of a predictable exchange rate for economic planning and investment.” He expressed confidence in the current market dynamics, where willing buyers and sellers operate freely, adding that it had contributed to the stability of the Naira. He, however, stressed the importance of continuous observation and management to ensure the market benefits all participants. Governor Cardoso highlighted the crucial role of coordinated monetary and fiscal policies in achieving economic stability, adding that the collaboration was essential for managing the macroeconomic fundamentals that influence the market, aiming to provide the best value for the Naira. It will be recalled that Nigeria’s annual inflation rose to a 28-year high of 33.95% in May 2024, but recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveals that the month-on-month inflation rate had slowed for the third consecutive month, validating the effectiveness of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s monetary policy tightening measures.
Nigerian afrobeat singer and Grammy award nominee, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has finally tied the marital knot with his long time partner, Chioma Rowland, now Chioma Adeleke. The much publicized wedding, which was conducted today, June 25 in Lagos, attracted the former Nigeria’s President, Olusegum Obasanjo, the Ooni Of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, state governors and renowned stars in the entertainment industry. The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki and the senator representing the Edo South Senatorial District of Edo State, Daisy Danjuma, were present at the venue of the wedding ceremony. Nigerian singer, Paul Okoye, popularly known as Rudeboy, Reggae-dancehall singer, Patoranking, and Skit maker Craze Clown, were also at the venue. Son of President Bola Tinubu, Seyi Tinubu, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun and popular businessman, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly called Obi Cubana are also at the venue of the event in Lagos.
Their presence was announced via different videos that were shared on social media today. The couple’s wedding has been building up excitement on social media with the hashtag #CHIVIDO2024 since the duo released their pre-wedding photoshoot. Source: Prompt News.
The Governor of Kano state, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has saved the daughter of late Ado Bayero, Emir of Kano, Zainab Jummai Ado Bayero, her brother and her mother from being ejected from their rented Lagos residence by moving fast to settle the rent bill a few hours to the deadline of the eviction notice they were served. The Governor’s spokesperson Sanusi Bature was believed to have arrived in Lagos in the early hours of today, June 25, to meet with the General Manager of the apartment where the Ado Bayero family have lived since early this year, Sunel Kumar, who vowed to evict them by 3pm today. The governor’s intervention followed an outcry in the newspapers by Princess Zainab Bayero on behalf of her mother and brother who were allegedly neglected by the royal family after the death of Emir Ado Bayero. Zainab Ado Bayero is a documentary producer who recently worked on the personality profile and documentary of her late father, Ado Abdullahi Bayero. Receiving the representative of Kano state Governor, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa in Lagos, Zainab and her mother expressed appreciation for the gesture of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in rescuing them at the right time. “You came at the right time. We were about to be forcefully evicted from the facility for our inability to pay the rent. They said today is final. We must move out by 3:00 pm and you came just fifteen minutes to the time. They have already mobilised youths to remove us out of the apartment. Alhamdulillah for your arrival” Zainab appreciated. On his own part, the representative of Kano state Governor, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa said that the governor’s humanitarian intervention was due to the fact that many citizens of Kano feel that the matter did not portray the royal family and Kano in good light. “They are not only members of the Royal Family, they are our Muslim sisters and brothers, currently in need.”
The Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu has dismissed rumour making the rounds that he is planning to dethrone the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III. According to the Governor, his relationship with the Sultan and the Sultanate Council has been very cordial. A statement today, June 25, by Malam Abubakar Bawa, spokesman of the governor, quoted Governor Ahmed Aliyu as describing allegation on a plan by the state government to dethrone the Sultan as baseless and unfounded. ”It is an attempt by mischief makers and enemies of progress to fabricate false and unsubstantiated information, just to create an unfriendly atmosphere and fear in the minds of the law-abiding and peaceful citizens of the state. ”We assure MURIC that the present administration just like the previous administrations in the state, cherishes and respect the Sultanate Council long before MURIC was established. ”The Sultanate Council which has a long standing historical importance is so reverred to all the people of Sokoto State, therefore we still hold the institution in very high regards and esteem.” The Governor emphasized that the relationship between his administration and the Sultanate Council, led by respected traditional ruler, Abubakar, has been very cordial. He said that his administration always consulted with Sultan on issues affecting the state and his invaluable contributions and inputs are always respected and included in policy implementation. Governor Ahmed Aliyu said that the sacking and transfer of some District Heads made recently by Sokoto state government was done due to some unbecoming behaviours of the affected traditional rulers. The Governor asked Vice President Kashim Shettima, who had raised concern over the rumour of the dethronement, to disregard the false information. ”The Sultan enjoys all the powers he is entitled to; we never denied him any of his freedom or rights. ”We do not need to be told to guard, protect, and promote the Sultan, it is our sole responsibility. ”The government and People of Sokoto state cherish and adore the sultanate council and would do everything possible to protect the dignity of the revered institution.” Source: partly NewsDiary online.
Deputy Comptroller of finance, administration and technical service at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Essien Etop Andrew, has been declared dead after he slumped during a session at the National Assembly. The top senior customs officer was said to be fielding questions from members of the House of Representatives committee on public account when he coughed and slumped. Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that Essien Etop Andrew was rushed to the National Assembly’s clinic where he was confirmed dead. The chairman of the committee, Bamidele Salam, said that the panel will suspend other hearings for one week to honour the late customs chief. “It was a very sad incident. He was very eloquent and clearly understood the issues being considered. “He suddenly said he wanted to drink water, to which we obliged and even asked if he needed some tea. “It was sad he died in active service. Our committee is suspending other hearings for the week in his honour.” In a statement, spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, said that the green chamber will “support efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed.” This was even as the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, expressed his condolences, saying that the House “is deeply saddened” by the officer’s death. Source, partly TheCable.
After more than a decade of operations in Nigeria, Aarti Steel, a prominent roofing sheet manufacturer, has reportedly closed shop.
The company’s exit is believed to have added to the growing list of multinational firms leaving the country due to harsh economic conditions.
Sources close to the company hinted that the Ota-based plant had been struggling with production for nearly a year and that severe indebtedness from forex losses, unfavourable economic policies, and depressed local pricing mechanisms forced the company to sell below production costs.
Insiders suggest that two major Nigerian steel companies and several Indian steel firms have shown interest in acquiring the closed plant, potentially saving thousands of jobs along its value chain.
This is even as Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate, decried the mass exodus of multinational companies from Nigeria.
Peter Obi claimed that the nation has lost N95 trillion in the past five years due to these departures.
“These companies have highlighted the same problems across the board. It is clear these issues are not coincidental but symptomatic of a larger governance problem.”
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Two people were killed last week during demonstrations – one hit by a gunshot and another by a tear gas canister.
Their presence was announced via different videos that were shared on social media today.
Nigeria’s Security Challenges: Experts Offer Ideas On How To Manage Information Between Media And Military
Experts in information world have offered ideas on how best the military and other uniformed personnel can synergize with media and media practitioners in the dissemination of information for harmonious relationship, amidst the security challenges facing the country.
Taking a shot at the topic during a RoundTable session on Asymmetric security challenges, held in Abuja, Professor Okey Ikechukwu, mni. insisted on the need for media to be always factored into the plans of the military for the purpose of winning the hearts and minds of Nigerians.
This was even as Waziri Adio highlighted the centrality of media to the security issues. Adio spoke on the need for synergy between the media and the military.
He identified, among others, issues such as an engagement plan as a strategy, saying that it is all about what you need from whom, when and how?
He stressed the need to understand the lay of the (media) land: ecosystem and its configuration
“Need to understand them: who are they, how are they wired, and how do they make decisions?
“Need to broaden the field of engagement: going beyond correspondents to decision-makers: publishers/owners, editors, columnists, anchors…
“Need to consistently nurture the relationship: Noah’s analogy. Preparation. Briefings. Consultations.
“Need to be proactive in shaping narrative: Banex example
“Need to know the limits: they can’t always do your bidding (most that can get sometimes is to reflect your own side or downplay)”
Also, the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Ndace, specifically canvassed for the incorporation of media planing as part of the highlights in the first day of the event.
Again, communication, media as well as gender issues formed focal point in day two of the event, held at the Army Resource Centre in partnership with Development Specs Academy.
Those who spoke on communication Media and gender include retired Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, mni who was spokesman of Nigerian Army; Malam Ali Mohammed Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN); Professor Biodun Adeniyi of Baze University and Margaret Agbo of Development Specs Academy, who addressed the gender sensitive communication.
Retired Brigadier General Usman, the former Army Spokesman noted in his presentation, that the the impact of non-violent communication (NVC) on national security in Nigeria is profound.
“By fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding, NVC contributes to:
“Stability: Improved army-civilian relations lead to greater stability within communities, reducing the likelihood of insurgencies and civil unrest.
“Collaboration: Enhanced communication and trust enable more effective collaboration between the military and civilian populations in addressing security challenges.
“Human Rights Protection: NVC encourages the military to engage with civilians in ways that respect human rights and dignity, reducing incidences of abuse and violence.”
Ali M. Ali, in his presentation, said inter Alia, “If what we have endured are the often negative and sometimes tragic outcomes of infodemics, misinformation and fake news, how can communication specialists, some of whom are gathered here, sustainably mitigate the damage wrought by adversarial report as well as manage information in a way that will promote the public good?”
He said offered solutions, which include the fact that we must uphold truthfulness and accuracy in combating infodemics, misinformation and fake news if we are to build trust with the public.
“The authenticity of a message reinforces that copy or communication. When people perceive the message to be authentic, they tend to believe it the more and show understanding. Genuineness or sincerity is critical in winning the people over.
“For example, through sustained information outflows by certain institutions (Army, Police, first emergency responders, Lagos government etc,) the Lekki Gate false narratives during the #EndSARS protest was debunked as a ” massacre without bodies!
“We must also be timely in countering misinformation.
This entails striking a balance between speedily responding and the volume of information available. A burning issue should not be allowed to fester before we react although there are times when silence is said to be golden until an auspicious time when a valid response would be desirable.
“Because misinformation and fake news are crafted to be sensational, we must also craft our responses in an interesting manner that would attract attention given the crowded media space and the competition for attention.
“We must also work with friendly media influencers who are credible and have the capacity to push out copies which grab media attention.
“Regular communication through constant engagements is critical, especially for institutions of state. They must always talk to the people and not the people begging them to react to issues as they break. In effect, we must be proactive rather than reactive in communication.
“Institutions of state in particular must promote digital literacy among their communications professionals, especially now that the media landscape is constantly in a state of flux.”
On his part, Professor Adeniyi took a look at the issues of reporting security related matter.
“Public Interest: Assess whether the story serves the public interest.
“Harm Minimisation: Weigh the potential harm to individuals and communities against the public’s need to know.
“Informed Consent: Seek consent from individuals involved, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations.”
Gender Sensitive Communication
Margaret Agbo who spoke on gender sensitive communication asserted: ”Our use of gender-biased language is sometimes designed to deliberately give offence, but not always. Whether intended to give offence or not, gender-biased use of language tends towards social exclusion and not inclusion.
“Gender inclusive communication on the other hand, reduces discrimination and makes everyone feel that he or she is part of a team or group of equal parts. It reenforces group cohesion, collaboration, team work and reduces conflict. It also strengthens self confidence among the individual and promotes forward looking social change. Egs…
“In order to improve gender sensitive communication, we must avoid gender stereotypes, exclusionary terms, unequal forms of address, and gender inequity through titles and labels.
She concluded by outlining what she termed steps toward gender sensitive communication thus: “Training of communication personnel to raise awareness about gender biases and stereotypes.
”Develop and explain gender neutral expressions that could be used to substitute gender biased notions and culturally induced gender stereotypes.
“Entrenched commitment to equity through non-discriminatory practices as official policy.
“Avoid the use of negative gender-specific terms as a matter of course.”