Metro
Police Affairs Minister Hosts Turkiye Ambassador, Reiterates FG’s Commitment to Safety, Security
The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to ensure the safety and security of the citizens through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices in the field of security with the Republic of Turkiye
He made this known during the visit of the Turkiye Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Hidayat Bayraktar, to the Headquarters of the Ministry in Abuja, according to a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Mr. Bolaji Kazeem, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP).
The Minister acknowledged the challenges and complex security in the country noting that it is through collaborative efforts and shared experiences that they can effectively address them. Your visit serves as a testament to the importance that both our countries attach to our partnership and the desire to further enhance our cooperation for the mutual benefit of our nations. He stressed.
According to him, “Your visit served as a stepping stone towards greater collaboration, partnership, and friendship between Nigeria and the Republic of Turkiye. Let us work together, hand in hand, to create a safer, more prosperous future for our nations and our people”.
Gaidam said his visit would serve as a catalyst for greater cooperation and understanding and present a unique opportunity for us to explore avenues for collaboration in various areas of trade, security, education, and cultural exchange. One such area of immense importance is intelligence sharing and capacity building to combat transnational crimes.
He added that the Nigeria Police Force will require intervention in the area of procurement and use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for precise mapping surveillance and intelligence-led policing to combat ever-evolving terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crimes in the country.
The Minister opined that he would spare no effort in strengthening our bilateral relations, fostering greater understanding between both countries, and exploring new avenues for cooperation in various fields. Together, we can build a more secure, prosperous, and interconnected future for our nations and our citizens.
Gaidam assured that Nigeria is fully committed to nurturing, protecting, and promoting the bond of friendship that exists between our two countries adding that the nation is blessed with diversity, resilience, and a vibrant culture.
Earlier, the Turkiye Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Hidayat Bayraktar pointed out that both countries have had a long-standing relationship since 1961 and the relationship has been improving.
He said both countries have done a lot in the security cooperation and law enforcement training. He assured the Minister of more cooperation in those areas in the future and will get back to the Ministry for further discussion.
The Federal government has declared Friday, May 1, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s International Workers’ Day.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on behalf of the government.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated workers nationwide, commending their commitment and contributions to national development.
He noted that the dedication of Nigerian workers remains vital to the country’s growth and economic progress, urging them to sustain values of patriotism, productivity and diligence.
Tunji-Ojo also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, enhancing security and creating an enabling environment for economic expansion.
He called on Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding during the celebration, encouraging citizens to reflect on the importance of unity and hard work in nation-building.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.
The Congress warned that it would embark on nationwide protest, if there is no improvement.
The warning was conveyed in in a communiqué jointly signed by the TUC President, Mr. Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr. Nuhu Toro, at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.
“Government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.
The Congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.
It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.
According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.
It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.
The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.
It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.
“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.
The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.
On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.
The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.
It urged government at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added.
A small-scale grocery seller from Plateau State, Ejiofor Akujieze, has emerged the grand prize winner of ₦5 million in the Golden Morn Golden Hunt, a nationwide consumer campaign by Nestlé Nigeria that rewarded Nigerians with a total of ₦80 million in cash and prizes.
Akujieze, who expressed surprise at his win, described the moment as life-changing. “It came as a shock to me. I won ₦5 million, and it will go a long way. I am very grateful,” he said, noting that the prize will support the expansion of his grocery business.
The Golden Morn Golden Hunt, which commenced in January 2026, recorded strong participation from consumers across the country, with over 200,000 entries received. Designed around Golden Morn’s smaller, affordable pack sizes to encourage wider participation, the campaign made it easier for more Nigerians to take part. At the end of seven draws, a total of 16,324 winners emerged, receiving cash prizes ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦1 million, alongside airtime rewards and exciting items such as washing machines, MacBooks, iPhones, and 55-inch televisions, in addition to the grand prize.
Speaking on the campaign, Omofasa Orhiunu, Category Manager, Healthy Cereals at Nestlé Nigeria, said the initiative was designed to connect more closely with consumers while giving them an opportunity to experience the brand.
“Golden Morn has been part of everyday life for Nigerian families, and with the Golden Hunt, we wanted more people to experience that,” he said. “It gave both our loyal consumers and new ones the opportunity to enjoy a nourishing product that fits into their daily routines, while also being rewarded in a simple and accessible way.”
Also speaking, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to creating value for consumers beyond its products.
“For over 40 years, Golden Morn has been nourishing Nigerian families and earning their trust,” he said. “The Golden Hunt was our way of recognising that trust and giving back in a way that is meaningful and inclusive. What has been most inspiring are the real stories behind the wins, how this has made a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly matters to us.”
Golden Morn, a cherished homegrown brand, continues to provide wholesome nourishment made from carefully selected grains. It is enriched through its Grain Smart blend, which combines essential vitamins and minerals to support energy and overall wellbeing for individuals and families.
Through initiatives like the Golden Hunt, Nestlé Nigeria continues to strengthen its connection with consumers while delivering on its commitment to providing accessible, nutritious food and supporting thriving communities across the country.
