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DEFENCE MINISTER BADARU CONDOLES KATSINA GOVERNOR OVER MOTHER’S DEATH

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has paid a condolence visit to Katsina State Governor, Mallam Umar Dikko Umaru Radda, following the death of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umar Bare-Bari Radda. In a statement, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Iyogun Sunday, disclosed that the Minister visited the Governor at the Katsina Government House to commiserate with him and the people of the state over the loss. Badaru, on behalf of his family, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and the entire Ministry of Defence, expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved family. Badaru prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased, grant her mercy, and admit her into Jannatul Firdaus. He also prayed for the Governor and his family to be granted the strength to bear the loss. The Minister was accompanied by Hon. Idris Garba Jahun, former Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, as well as Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Jallo and Hon. Mas’ud A. Naruwa, members of the Katsina State House of Assembly representing Hadejia and Babura constituencies, respectively. Iyogun Sunday noted that Badaru emphasized the importance of unity and support during such trying times, urging the Governor to take solace in the good legacy left behind by his late mother. The statement further highlighted Badaru’s reassurance of the Federal Government’s solidarity with the people of Katsina State in their moment of grief. Iyogun Sunday added that the Minister’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to standing with leaders and citizens during personal and collective challenges. Badaru concluded his remarks by reiterating his prayers for the departed soul and the bereaved family, urging continued faith in Allah’s divine will.

CANADA DENIES VISAS TO NIGERIA’S CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF, OTHER OFFICIALS

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly condemned Canada’s decision to deny visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials. The officials were invited to attend an event in Canada honoring war veterans, but only some members of the delegation were granted visas. Musa expressed disappointment over the visa denial, but saw it as an opportunity for Nigeria to assert itself on the global stage. “Every disappointment is a blessing,” he said. “Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans, those who were injured during battles, and we were supposed to be there. We were invited with our team. Half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing”. Ribadu reinforced the importance of making Nigeria self-sufficient, citing the incident as further motivation to work towards national progress. He commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security challenges and stressed the need for continued collaboration among security agencies. “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu said. The visa denial has raised questions about Canada’s stance on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. The specific reasons for the refusal remain unclear, but the incident has highlighted the bureaucratic and political hurdles Nigerian officials face in international engagements.

AMBASSADOR ADUDA PLEDGES TO MOVE MOD TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has pledged to improve the performance of the ministry, building on the achievements of his predecessor, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana. Aduda made this commitment during the handover ceremony at Ship House, Abuja, where he took over from Dr. Kana. According to Aduda, the Ministry of Defence feels like home, given his military background and knowledge of military veterans. He stated, “The MOD is like home coming because I am a product of Military background family, has good knowledge of Military veterans and destiny has brought us back.” Aduda also acknowledged the accomplishments of Dr. Kana, saying, “With the very good testimonies about the achievements of Dr. Kana, we shall take it further to the next level so that his efforts will not be in vain.” Aduda emphasized the importance of honesty, commitment, courage, and excellence among the ministry’s staff. He promised to prioritize staff welfare and solicited their cooperation in all aspects of the ministry’s work.