The Guild of Civil Societies and Media Executives for Equity, Justice, and Transparency in Nigeria (GOCMEJ) has highly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the re-appointment of Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi as the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for a second term of five years.

In a statement released from Mombasa, Kenya, the Guild described the President’s decision as that of a round peg in a round hole, affirming it as a testament to Prof. Audi’s transformative leadership and the remarkable success trajectory recorded during his first tenure.

The President of GOCMEJ, Omoba Kenneth Agbegbele, hailed the re-appointment as a “nationalist, decisive, and visionary action” that reaffirms the administration’s unwavering commitment to excellence, capacity, and continuity. “Your avowed confidence in Prof. Audi is not only a recognition of his hard work and dedication but a bold statement that merit, proven results, and loyalty remain the bulwark of your administration’s cardinal principles,” the statement read.

According to the Guild, the CG’s first tenure witnessed an unprecedented repositioning of the Service, changing its narrative through a series of landmark achievements. These include:
· Institutional Development: Establishment of the Civil Defence Academy in Jos, Plateau State; the NSCDC Arms Squad Training School in Ugede Development Area, Nasarawa State; and the creation of the NSCDC Female Squad to tackle kidnapping and other security challenges in schools nationwide.
· Sector-Specific Interventions: Creation of the NSCDC Special Mining Marshals to combat illegal mining, which has drastically reduced the pillage of natural resources.
· Operational Capacity & Welfare: Massive acquisition of arms and accoutrements; procurement of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and over 250 operational vehicles; purchase of mini-fire-fighting tankers for disaster management; robust staff welfare packages, including mass promotions and the provision of staff buses; and the construction of official and residential buildings.
· Infrastructure Protection: Destruction of over 450 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta; arrest and prosecution of vandals with record conviction rates; and the recovery of stolen railway materials valued at over ₦5 billion.
· Strategic Initiatives: Pioneering the ‘Safe Schools Initiative’ for the protection of vulnerable schools across the country; and the creation of the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, which has made significant impacts in the war against illegal bunkering, kidnapping, and banditry.

The statement further highlighted Prof. Audi’s role in fostering inter-agency collaboration and enhancing public trust. It also praised the effective supervision of Private Guard Companies and the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to amicably settle conflicts between herders and farmers, as well as other community disputes, contributing to national peace-building.

“Transparency and professionalism have remained at the forefront of Prof. Audi’s transformational philosophy,” the statement noted. “His introduction of far-reaching institutional reforms, including the yearly and quarterly Commandant General’s Conferences, has kept the Corps abreast of global best practices and aligned its operations with the mandate of President Tinubu’s administration.”

GOCMEJ reiterated that the efforts of the NSCDC under Prof. Audi are in line with the President’s vision to diversify the economy and protect critical national assets, including those in the mining, oil and gas, and agricultural sectors.

“The Guild looks forward to a second tenure marked by unprecedented milestones, improved policy direction, and sustained public trust,” Omoba Agbegbele added. “We call on all Nigerians to join hands with this pragmatic and transformative leader as he drives the NSCDC to even greater heights in national development, security, and safety.”

The appointment of Alhaji Ibrahim Kabiru Masari as Special Adviser on Political Affairs to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been widely applauded, with party leaders and stakeholders describing it as a strategic move to strengthen the All Progressives Congress (APC) and advance Nigeria’s democratic governance.

In a congratulatory message, Hon. Dattuwa Ali Kumo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and Deputy National Financial Secretary of the APC, commended Masari’s elevation, calling it “a well-deserved recognition of his loyalty, competence, and political acumen.”

Hon. Dattuwa emphasized that Masari’s appointment comes at a critical time when the APC must consolidate its leadership and foster unity across diverse political interests. He noted that Masari’s vast experience and inclusive approach will not only strengthen the party’s internal cohesion but also provide President Tinubu with valuable counsel in shaping policies that promote national growth and stability.

“Alhaji Kabiru Masari has consistently demonstrated resilience and a deep commitment to progressive governance. His new role will serve as a vital link between government and party structures, ensuring that the APC remains responsive to the aspirations of Nigerians while guiding the President toward decisions that will strengthen both the party and the country at large,” Hon. Dattuwa stated.

Political analysts have observed that Masari’s appointment underscores President Tinubu’s determination to surround himself with trusted allies who possess both political depth and organizational skill. They argue that Masari’s advisory role will enhance the administration’s political strategies, reinforce the APC’s grassroots presence, and contribute to the overall growth of Nigeria’s democracy.

Stakeholders across the APC have expressed optimism that Masari’s new position will play a significant role in shaping the party’s future direction and ensuring the success of President Tinubu’s government. For many, his appointment is seen not only as a recognition of his personal qualities but also as a step toward building a more inclusive and responsive political structure that aligns with the aspirations of Nigerians.

At 89, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo stands as one of Africa’s most enduring statesmen, a leader whose life has been defined by sacrifice, resilience, and service. His birthday is not just a celebration of longevity, but a reflection on a legacy that continues to shape Nigeria and the continent.

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, paid glowing tribute to the former president, describing him as “a statesman of uncommon stature” whose contributions to Nigeria’s unity, democratic consolidation, and economic reforms remain unmatched.

Dogara noted that Obasanjo’s leadership journey — from military command to civilian presidency — reflects courage and vision that left indelible marks on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. He praised Obasanjo’s role in strengthening democratic institutions, spearheading anti-corruption initiatives, and amplifying Nigeria’s voice in global affairs.

Beyond Nigeria, Dogara highlighted Obasanjo’s interventions in African peace processes, stressing that his mediation efforts earned him respect as a continental leader and global diplomat. He further described Obasanjo as a mentor and conscience of the nation, whose courage to speak truth to power and insistence on justice and equity have made him a moral compass for leaders and citizens alike.

Concluding his tribute, Dogara offered prayers for Obasanjo’s continued health and wisdom: “At 89, Baba Obasanjo stands as a living testimony of God’s grace and favor. May his legacy forever shine as a beacon of hope for Nigeria and Africa.”