Author: Platform Times Newspaper

In a significant announcement, General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS),has stated  that a total of 3,478 repentant terrorists have been reintegrated into society between 2016 and 2022.  This revelation underscores the success of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate individuals who have chosen to abandon extremist ideologies. Addressing a gathering at the opening of a national security course on Psychological Operations and Strategic Communication (PSYOPS) in Abuja, General Musa shed light on the evolving strategies employed by the military.  He emphasised the implementation of both hard and soft power in counter-insurgency operations, showcasing adaptability in the face of the…

President Bola Tinubu has advised  the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN),  against the delivery of divisive sermons that could jeopardize the unity of the nation.  The statement came during a meeting with CAN leaders, where Tinubu emphasized his commitment to fighting corruption and steering Nigeria toward prosperity. In a dialogue with the delegation led by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, Tinubu underscored the sacred duty of his administration to address corruption and other societal vices.  He urged faith leaders, particularly those in the Christian community, to play a pivotal role in fostering unity and peace. “Public condemnation of a nation…

In a recent report, it has been indicated that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is considering the possibility of directing banks with international banking licenses to elevate their capital base, potentially exceeding N900bn. This revelation follows a statement by CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, a few months ago, outlining the apex bank’s intention to urge financial institutions to augment their capital to align with the Federal Government’s ambitious plan to boost the economy to $1tn. According to the Banking Sector FY 2024 Outlook by CardinalStone Securities, a non-bank securities trading firm, the projection suggests varying capital increments, ranging from N181.85bn…

In a historic move on Monday, Dangote Cement reached a market capitalization of N10 trillion, securing its position as the first company to achieve this milestone on the Nigerian Exchange.  This remarkable feat was accompanied by billionaire businessman Femi Otedola’s substantial acquisition of Dangote Cement shares. Closing the trading day with a market cap of N10.098 trillion, the company experienced an impressive N917 billion gain, driven by a 9.99% surge in its stock.  This surge contrasts sharply with the N5.451 trillion market cap the firm closed with in 2023.  The closing share price on Monday stood at N590.60 per unit,…

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to broaden its focus by offering interest-free loans to Nigerian students pursuing skill development programs.  This decision follows a briefing from Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Executive Secretary of NELFUND, regarding the upcoming launch later this month. The President emphasized the importance of accommodating those not inclined towards traditional university education, highlighting the significance of skill acquisition alongside academic qualifications.  Tinubu stated, “It is not exclusive; it caters to all our young people. This is for those who wish to contribute through skilled hands, not just aspiring doctors, lawyers, and accountants.”…

Former General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj Gen Danjuma Ali-Keffi (rtd), has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the air crash that tragically took the life of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Ibrahim Attahiru. Ali-Keffi claims the crash is linked to terror sponsors. In an interview, Ali-Keffi asserted that the late General Attahiru played a crucial role in countering insurgency in Northern Nigeria, implementing strategies to dismantle terrorism financing networks and neutralizing key figures. He pointed to peculiar circumstances surrounding the crash, including changes in travel plans, aircraft, and landing locations, raising…

In a chilling incident, the Ogun State Police Command  has reported the arrest of a 30-year-old woman, Oluwabunmi Ajayi, for attempting to drown her five-month-old baby. According to SP Omolola Odutola, the Police Public Relations Officer, the heinous act was thwarted by a vigilant citizen, Olusola Sonaya, of the RSS River Sagamu, who spotted Ajayi dropping the child into the river on Sunday evening at approximately 5:30pm. “The person who saw her dropping the child into the river raced to the river and rescued the baby from drowning,” stated Odutola.  The baby, identified as Imole Anifowose, was promptly rushed to…

In a heartfelt response to a compelling human-interest story, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the Wife of the Ogun State Governor, visited 24-year-old Bilikis Salami, whose challenging journey was brought to light by Punch Newspapers on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Bilikis, grappling with the amputation of her arm due to sickle cell anemia, garnered the attention of Mrs. Abiodun, prompting swift action.  Displaying a deep sense of empathy, Mrs. Abiodun promptly located Bilikis’s family home in Irolu town, Ikenne local government area of Ogun State. During her visit, Mrs. Abiodun not only generously donated food and essential items to Bilikis and her…

Daud Olatunji In a show of unity and support, the League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State, led by President Sheikh Sikirulahi Babalola, have extended warm congratulations to Governor Dapo Abiodun following his recent legal victory at the Supreme Court. The religious leaders, including prominent figures such as Sheikh Tajudeen Adewunmi, the Secretary of the League, expressed their joy and conveyed their prayers for continued success for the Governor. In a statement released by Sheikh Sikirulahi Babalola, the League commended Governor Abiodun for his resilience and leadership amidst legal challenges, emphasizing the significance of the divine favor that has…

… MAPOLY may Help If – PRO DAUD OLATUNJI, Editor, PLATFORM TIMES, discovered Agbadu village, a community that traces its roots back approximately 200 years arguably.  The village has been dependent on a  polluted stream water, leading to adverse health effects.  Situated near Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Agbadu village can be accessed through its gate. In the shadows of progress, nestled behind the gates of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic,Abeokuta,Ogun State lies Agbadu village, a community grappling with a 200-year history of survival against all odds. The once vibrant village under Obafemi-Owode local government area of Ogun State, now haunted by the remnants…