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Japan Commits To Bolstering Security In Nigeria
The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria , Mr Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, says Japan remains firmly committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to create a safe and secured environment for all its citizens.
The ambassador made the commitment at the inauguration of project 2024, at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre(MLAILPKC) Jaji .
The Tide’s source reports that the project was executed in collaboration with the Government of Japan through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Kazuyoshi, who spoke virtually, said the project exemplified that commitment, adding, “we believe it will make a significant contribution to achieving that goal.
“One crucial aspect of building lasting peace is ensuring the active participation of women. Women are not just victims of conflicts, they are perfect agents for peace.”
According to the envoy, over the decades, Nigeria has been confronted by insurgency and terrorist attacks particularly from Boko Haram in the North-East.
He said, “These acts of violence had devastated lives and communities causing loss of lives and properties, mass displacement and significant economic losses.
“During my visit to Maiduguri on March 10, I witnessed first hand the plight of those impacted in the IDP camp.
“Just recently, the Japanese Foreign Minister, Mrs Kam Kaowa, concluded her very first visit to Nigeria, during which she emphasized the critical importance of peace and security for Nigeria’s continued development and prosperity.”
Kazuyoshi explained that since inception, MLAILPKC has trained over one 100, 000 troops on pre-deployment training and over 2200 persons on individual peace support operation courses.
They were drawn from Nigeria’s Armed Forces, Paramilitary organisations , government’s ministries, departments and agencies, civilians and allied countries.
He said the project was executed with technical support from the UNDP and financial support of the government of Japan
“It has the potential to empower women, develop the new generations of female leaders who can play critical role in Nigeria peace building efforts,” the envoy added.
Also, the Chief of Training, Army Headquarters, Maj.-Gen. Sani Muhammad, commended UNDP and the Government of Japan for sustaining the project over the years not only in Nigeria but across the globe.
The chief of training was represented Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, Commandant Nigerian Army School of Infantry.
He said the 2024 project covers 3 vital courses: “Leadership and National Cohesion, Comprehensive Protection of Civilians” and “Countering Violent Extremism”, all to be executed by MLAILPKC.
“ This project will significantly enhance the capacity of MLAILPKC to deliver world-class training and capacity-building programs, empowering military and security personnel.
“As well as other stakeholders, to effectively prevent, respond to, and manage emerging security challenges in Nigeria and the West African sub- region.
“Effective leadership and national cohesion, protection of civilians, and countering violent extremism are essential skills required by peacekeepers, security personnel, NGOs and selected MDAs.
“By acquiring these skills, participants of these courses will be empowered to lead, protect civilians, and counter violent extremism, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and secure Africa, “Muhammad said.
Also in his remarks, the Team Lead, Governance, Peace and Security, Mr Mathew Alao, said the event marked the commencement of the execution of the “Enhancing MLAILPKC’s Capacities for Effective Peace Support Operations in West Africa Project”.
Alao said the project was formulated by MLAILPKC and UNDP with funding assistance from the Government of Japan.
He said the main objective of the project was to advance democracy and national cohesion, peaceful co-existence and preserve the well-being of civilians in armed conflicts.
“The funding of this project reflects the importance that the Government of Japan and UNDP attach to peace and security issues in the world, especially in West Africa.
“The project will complement the efforts of the West Africa Member States to curtail the spread and influence of terrorism, extremism and violence in the region.
“Over the last decade, the Government of Japan, in partnership with UNDP, had invested over US$3 million in Peace Support Operations (PSOs), and anti-piracy projects in West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea.
“The projects had resulted in the capacities of about 1,000 military and paramilitary officers and civilians in 11 countries of the regions built and strengthened, “ Alao said.
He said the Government of Japan, in collaboration with UNDP Nigeria, had funded over 15 projects with a budget of over US$28 million in Nigeria in a decade.
“Nigeria is the only country in Africa that has enjoyed perpetual funding of the PSOs project from the Government of Japan since 2014.
“We express our heartfelt gratitude to the Embassy of Japan, Abuja for its constant support to UNDP Nigeria,” Alao added.
Earlier, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said collaboration efforts with local and international partners have been instrumental in achieving the set objectives.
He said MLAILPKC was proud to partner with organizations such as the UNDP, AU and ECOWAS.
“ The Centre appreciates the collaborative effort of the Government of Japan towards her capacity development programmes.
“These strategic partnerships have enabled MLAILPKC to leverage resources, expertise, and networks, enhancing our impact in peacekeeping and conflict resolution capabilities in Nigeria and Africa.
“Through these partnerships, MLAILPKC continues to strengthen the capacity to promote peace, security, and development in Africa.
“The Centre looks forward to deepening our collaboration to achieve even greater results,” Adedoja said .
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol