Metro
We Must Be Proactive, Aggressive Against the Enemy, Says Police Affairs Minister, Gaidam
The Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has urged the Nigeria Police Force to embrace a new strategy of proactivity and aggression to fight against the enemies of peace in the country.
He stated this during an official visit of the Ministers and management of the Ministry of Police Affairs to the Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja.
The Minister said the Nigeria Police Force should no longer wait for the enemy to strike, but instead, take the fight to their very doorstep. We must seek out their hideouts, disrupt their operations, and dismantle their networks piece by piece. Gaidam stressed.
In his words, “I stand before you today not just as a Minister, but as a fellow warrior in the battle against terrorism and banditry that threatens our beloved nation. We are facing a formidable enemy, one that thrives in darkness and preys on fear and uncertainty. But I come to you with a message of hope and determination, a message that together, we can overcome these challenges and emerge victorious”.
He said the defensive approach has emboldened the enemies and allowed them to grow stronger adding that it is time to change the narrative, to shift the balance of power in our favor. By being proactive, and taking the fight to the hideouts of the terrorists and bandits, we can weaken them, disrupt their plans, and ultimately defeat them. The Minister reiterated
Gaidam acknowledged that the task will not be easy and requires courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. “I have full faith in every one of you. I have seen your bravery on the frontlines in many peacekeeping missions, your dedication to duty, and your unwavering commitment to protecting our people. Together, we are a force to be reckoned with, a force that cannot be defeated”. He stressed.
The Minister pointed out that the Nigerian Police Force holds a special place in the hearts of our citizens and they are entrusted with the important responsibility of maintaining peace, protecting lives, and ensuring the security of our communities adding that dedication and sacrifice in the face of numerous challenges are commendable.
Gaidam assured that their welfare and professional development are of paramount importance to the government and recognizes the need to address the various challenges faced daily, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient equipment, and limited resources.
“We will invest in modernizing the Nigerian Police Force. The world around us is rapidly evolving, and law enforcement agencies must keep pace with emerging trends and technologies. We will enhance your capacity through the provision of state-of-the-art equipment, advanced training programs, and technological solutions. We will foster partnerships with international organizations and friendly nations to leverage their expertise and experiences for the benefit of our officers” The Minister stated.
The Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim said that the Ministry will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to create an improved welfare, training, and supportive environment for professional growth.
She urged the Inspector General of Police to promote gender equality and facilitate the inclusion of female police officers in the top management of the force as well as effective implementation of a safe school environment policy.
In his welcome address, the Inspector General of Police IGP Olukayode Egbetokun thanked the Honourable Ministers for the commendation which will serve as motivation to officers and rank and file of the force to serve the country better.
He assured them of the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force to work with the Ministry and support efforts put in place to enable the police to get better deals such as improving welfare, modern equipment, and reform of the police force
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.
