From Owen Akenzua, Asaba 

Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 32-year-old jobseeker, Ezekiel Elliajah, for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old physically challenged girl in Aviara Community.

The state police spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed that the incident occurred at the weekend, said the suspect allegedly lured the victim into his house where he committed the offence. 

He stressed that the victim’s vulnerability made the case particularly disturbing, adding that the suspect was apprehended and detained at the state Criminal Investigation Department, CID, for further investigation.

Edafe disclosed that the suspect claimed he was not aware of the victim’s age but admitted that he made love to her without difficulty.

Meanwhile, three suspected cultists were arrested at the weekend in Asaba while trying to initiate two girls.

The spokesman confirmed that the police patrol team around nightfall sighted the suspects in the dark around Summit Road when the team closed on them and rounded them up. 

Edafe disclosed that the suspects were arrested with battle axes, among other weapons, adding that they would be charged to court on completion of investigation.

A coalition of 774 civil society organisations has named Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, as the “Minister of the Year 2024” for his exceptional leadership, dedication to Nigeria’s security, and significant achievements throughout the year.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by Dr Hakeem Baba Tunde, the coalition’s national chairman. According to Baba Tunde, Dr Matawalle’s tenure has been marked by a dual focus on international diplomacy and domestic cohesion, resulting in notable progress in the country’s defence framework.

He said “Dr. Matawalle began 2024 with a dual focus on international diplomacy and domestic cohesion. From January 8–9, he embarked on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), alongside the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, OFR. During the visit, they engaged with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance bilateral defence relations.

“On January 20, he attended the Nigerian Air Force Base Socio-Cultural Activities (BASA) for 2023 in Abuja, hosted by Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, celebrating the dedication of airmen and airwomen. Two days later, on January 22, Dr. Matawalle hosted His Excellency Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, for high-level discussions on deepening Nigeria-UAE defence ties.

“He concluded the month with a two-day roundtable on January 24–25, addressing Northern Nigeria’s security challenges. The event was organized by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.

“In February, Dr. Matawalle’s global engagements took him to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he attended the World Defence Exhibition from February 4–8.

“The event showcased Nigeria’s defence capabilities and explored strategic partnerships. On February 23, he paid tribute to retired flag officers at the Nigerian Navy Regimental Dinner Night in Asokoro, Abuja.

“March was a month of impactful initiatives. On March 4, Dr. Matawalle held talks with Mrs. Hen Cohn, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), to establish a mine action center in Maiduguri to enhance safety in conflict zones.

” On March 6, in collaboration with Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, the Minister of Steel Development, he laid the groundwork for reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company to bolster military hardware production. On March 7, he deepened defence ties with India at the India-Nigeria Defence Cooperation Seminar in Abuja.

“Later in the month, on March 19, he chaired the 34th meeting of the Board of Defence Health Maintenance Limited. On March 26, he contributed to refining Nigeria’s defence strategies at the Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference in Abuja.

” On March 27, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he attended a solemn military burial ceremony to honour fallen heroes killed while serving their country in Okuama.”

“April marked significant milestones, including Dr. Matawalle’s attendance at the launch of the Nigerian Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessel in Turkey on April 19. On April 22, he joined President Tinubu at the African Counter-Terrorism Summit in Abuja, emphasizing Nigeria’s leadership in regional security.

“On April 23, he hosted Mauritania’s Defence Minister, Hanena Ould Sidi, to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. On April 27, he celebrated the next generation of naval personnel at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School Passing Out Parade in Onne, Rivers State.

” Dr. Matawalle concluded the month on April 30 by hosting a U.S. Department of Defense delegation, led by Assistant Secretary Mrs. Jennifer Zakriski, to discuss mutual defence interests.

“From May 23–25, the minister participated in the Nigerian Air Force’s 60th Anniversary celebrations in Abuja and Kaduna. On May 28, he chaired a stakeholders’ meeting on implementing the new Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act and inspected facilities at the Defence Intelligence Agency HQ. On May 29, he joined President Tinubu in celebrating the rehabilitation of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit System.

“On June 12, Dr. Matawalle attended the 25th Democracy Day Parade at Eagle Square, Abuja, marking a quarter-century of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“On July 4, the minister chaired the inaugural meeting of the National Hydrographic Agency’s Governing Council, focusing on maritime security. On July 18, he explored defence manufacturing collaborations with a delegation from the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC).

“In August, Dr. Matawalle attended the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defence Staff Meeting in Abuja on August 8. On August 14, he unveiled a vision for local ammunition production at DICON’s 60th Anniversary. On August 20, he commissioned a tuberculosis laboratory in Mogadishu Cantonment.

“September saw Dr. Matawalle intensify efforts to address banditry in Sokoto. Following directives from President Tinubu, he conducted security operations and facility inspections across affected areas and his visit led to the killing of Alhaji Halilu Sububu and thousands of bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara,and other part of the country.

“His second visit to Sokoto from October 8–12 included military facility assessments and security operations in Gundumi, Tsamaye, Isa Goronyo, Mai Lalle, and other banditry-affected villages. On October 15, he paid tribute to the late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja at the National Military Cemetery.

“In November, Dr. Matawalle participated in the Gulf of Guinea Navies Symposium on November 27, reinforcing maritime security cooperation. December saw him assess the 44 Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna on December 7. On December 12, he welcomed the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defence, and on December 29, he represented President Tinubu at the West African Social Activities (WASA) event.”

“On November 20, the Republic of Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Defense, Prince Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Ayyat, hosted Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defense, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in Riyadh to discuss strengthening defense collaboration between the two nations.

“Dr. Matawalle also traveled to Zamfara to address economic welfare issues, including plans to provide 1,200 naval officers and establish a naval base in Maradun. Additionally, a hospital project worth ₦2.25 billion is set to be completed in 2024.”

The coalition emphasised that the award was granted solely on merit. “Dr Matawalle did not influence our decision. We do not know him personally, but we have diligently documented his accomplishments over the year,” Baba Tunde stated.

As Nigeria looks to 2025, the coalition praised Dr Matawalle’s contributions to national security and collective progress under President Tinubu’s leadership.

Fidelity Bank has introduced an initiative tagged: “Bundles of Joy,” designed to support children with special needs and their families.

Divisional Head of Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, announced this in a statement in Lagos, yesterday.

Nwagboh said the initiative focused on creating inclusive spaces and activities for children between the ages of four and 11 with conditions such as autism, Down syndrome and cerebral palsy.

He said the programme aims to address the challenges that families face in integrating their children into the society.

“This initiative underscores Fidelity Bank’s commitment to foster a more inclusive society for children with special needs.

“Through the ‘Bundles of Joy’ programme, we are providing a variety of engaging activities, including sensory rooms, outdoor play stations and obstacle courses, all tailored to help improve mobility and social skills.

“Additionally, we offer resources and information to help parents and caregivers better support their children,” he said.

According to him, families can participate by registering their children online at www.fidelitybank.ng/bundlesofjoy/.

He explained that parents are required to provide their name, child’s name and details about their child’s needs during the registration process.

Nwagboh, stated that accordingly, Fidelity Bank will reach out to the families to arrange a special outing for each child in January 2025.

He noted that the ‘Bundles of Joy’ programme is part of the bank’s broader commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, and its efforts to promote inclusivity for children with special needs.

Nwagboh added that the bank’s staff also supported Patrick Speech and Language Centre in Ikeja, Lagos State; a facility dedicated to the education and socio-economic development of children and young adults with autism recently.

He said their contributions include cash donation and gift items to enhance the learning experience of students at the centre.

“With the Bundles of Joy initiative, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its dedication to create meaningful impact and foster a society where every child is given the opportunity to thrive,” he said. NAN

Kutigi Old Students Association, KUOSA, Class of 1984, has urged the Niger State government to take urgent action to restore public schools  to their former glory.

Head Boy of the set, Abubakar Shaba, made the call during the association’s second reunion meeting to mark its 40th graduation anniversary in Minna.

He also called on the state government to prioritise security to ensure conducive atmosphere in the educational sector.

Shaba appealed to the state government to provide adequate security in public schools and facilities, citing complaints of vandalism by hoodlums.

“We recall the good old days when schools in Niger State were in good shape.

“Unfortunately, over the years, the situation has deteriorated and the facilities have become a shadow of themselves due to poor maintenance culture,” he said.

He, however, paid tribute to 25 of their mates who have passed on, emphasising that welfare remains a topmost priority.

Also speaking,  the Assistant Head Boy of the 1984 set, Professor 

Baba Alfa, decried the state of the school they left 40 years ago, saying there is the need to prioritise education as a fundamental pillar for national development.

“The school is begging for attention, investing in education today is crucial for shaping capable leaders for tomorrow.

“This reunion is aimed at uniting ourselves for a better tomorrow,” he said.

He also disclosed that the association had been supporting the families of their deceased mates.

Alfa said it operates a cooperative society where members can obtain loans, adding that it was part of efforts to support one another.

The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the reunion provided an opportunity for old students to reminisce about their time in school and discuss ways to give back to their alma mater. NAN