Defence and Security

FG Mulls Relocation of Ikoyi Prison, Others

Published

12 months ago

June 7, 2024

In a bid to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation and its security implications for custodial centres, the Federal Government is considering relocating several correctional facilities, including the iconic Ikoyi Prison in Lagos, from urban centers across the nation.

The move comes as a response to concerns raised by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who highlighted the encroachment of urbanisation on the required setbacks around correctional centers, for safety and security reasons.

During an appearance on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ programme, Tunji-Ojo underscored the urgency of modernising Nigeria’s correctional infrastructure, pointing to the antiquated state of many facilities, including the Suleja correctional center in Niger State, which was built over a century ago in 1914. The minister emphasized that President Tinubu inherited 256 correctional centers in dire need of attention and renovation.

Tunji-Ojo drew attention to the alarming proximity of correctional facilities to residential areas, citing the example of the Ikoyi Correctional Center in Lagos upscale Ikoyi area. He questioned the wisdom of housing a prison in such prime real estate and stressed the need for potential relocation to ensure compliance with safety regulations and mitigate the risks associated with urbanisation.

“We’ve renovated over 10 correctional centers under this administration,” Tunji-Ojo affirmed, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency and security of correctional facilities. He specifically commended the transformation of the Kuje correctional center in Abuja as a testament to the government’s efforts in this regard.

The minister outlined the government’s plan to conduct an “inmate audit” across all 256 correctional centers nationwide to enhance rehabilitation efforts.

Defence and Security

Tinubu Meets Service Chiefs, Discusses Crucial Security Matters

Published

5 days ago

May 17, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Patrick Idowu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday convened an emergency security meeting with Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

In attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

While details remain undisclosed, the meeting is believed to be in response to growing security threats in parts of the country, particularly the northern region where insurgent attacks have resurfaced.

The high-level discussion comes just days before President Tinubu is expected to depart for Rome to attend the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo the Fourteenth, following an invitation from the Vatican.

Defence and Security

Nigerian Air Force Gears Up for 61st Anniversary

Published

1 week ago

May 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

The Nigerian Air Force has begun aerial drills over Abuja and Lagos as part of preparations for its qsixty-first anniversary celebration coming up on May twenty-third.

The display rehearsals, which started this week, feature fighter jets performing tactical maneuvers and flyovers.

The Air Force assured the public that the exercises are safe and in line with global aviation standards.

Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement released on Monday, urged residents not to panic at the sight or sound of the low-flying aircraft.

He noted that the rehearsals are routine and showcase the force’s operational readiness and air power capability.

The Air Force has encouraged residents in the affected areas to carry on with their normal daily activities, as safety remains a top priority.

The anniversary is expected to draw high-profile dignitaries and will highlight the contributions of the Air Force to national security and development.

Defence and Security

Police Bring Back Online Tinted Glass Permits

Published

3 weeks ago

April 30, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the return of the Tinted Glass Permit system, now fully digitized to improve efficiency and strengthen national security.

From May 1, motorists across the country can apply for the permit online using their National Identification Number and Tax Identification Number.

The process involves biometric capture and background checks and is expected to be completed within seventy two hours.

A thirty day grace period begins on May 1, after which full enforcement will commence.

The Inspector General of Police has cautioned officers to act professionally during the exercise, stressing zero tolerance for abuse or extortion.

The revamped system is designed to simplify access for eligible users, such as medical patients and licensed security personnel, while helping law enforcement better monitor and regulate tinted glass use in vehicles.