A new concept has entered Nigeria’s security framework — homeland security — and retired Major General Adeyinka Famadewa has been appointed to lead its implementation. His appointment, announced on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), has drawn attention not just because of the role itself, but also because of his long-standing views on how Nigeria approaches security. Before now, Famadewa was largely known within defence and intelligence circles. His emergence into the national spotlight has sparked mixed reactions, with some observers questioning whether the role represents meaningful reform or another structural addition to an already complex security system. As special adviser on homeland security, he is expected to strengthen coordination across agencies, improve intelligence sharing, and promote proactive strategies to address threats across the country. From chemistry to intelligence leadership Famadewa, a native of Ile-Ife in Osun state, began his military career in 1990 after being commissioned into the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps as part of the 37 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. He holds a degree in chemistry from the NDA, a master’s degree in business administration from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and a master’s in strategic studies from the University of Ibadan. His professional development includes training at top institutions such as Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, the Canadian Forces College in Toronto, the George Marshall Center in Germany, and the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel. He is also a fellow of the National Defence College (NDC). Throughout his career, he held several key positions, including chief instructor at the Nigerian Army Intelligence School in Lagos, deputy director of technical development at the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), commander of the Nigerian Army’s counter-intelligence command, and director at the intelligence production centre. He also served in the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) and received multiple honours, including the Meritorious Service Star (MSS). A different perspective on national security Famadewa has consistently criticised Nigeria’s reliance on the military as the primary solution to insecurity, advocating instead for a broader, more integrated strategy. In a 2023 article, he compared Nigeria’s security discourse to Salt-N-Pepa’s song “Let’s Talk About Sex,” arguing that while the topic is widely discussed, meaningful outcomes remain limited. He has called for a clearer definition of national security and a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security strategy. He also emphasised the importance of cultural and linguistic understanding, suggesting that military personnel should be proficient in major Nigerian languages — Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba — to improve effectiveness in operations. Bridging theory and practice One of Famadewa’s most notable contributions is the establishment of the Intelligence Fusion Centre (IFC) at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Between 2015 and 2021, he served as principal general staff officer to the NSA, during which time the IFC was developed to unify intelligence from agencies such as the DSS, NIA, DIA, and the Nigeria Police. The initiative aimed to enhance coordination and improve Nigeria’s ability to detect and respond to threats more efficiently. His work in this area is widely regarded as a key step in modernising the country’s intelligence-sharing framework. More recently, he has advocated for a reassessment of Nigeria’s intelligence systems to better anticipate and prevent attacks, particularly from insurgent groups. Research and contributions after retirement Following his retirement, Famadewa became a senior research fellow at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja, where he focused on policing, civil-security collaboration, and reforms within the security sector. He is also the author of “Policing and National Security in Nigeria,” a monograph that explores ways to improve cooperation among security agencies and strengthen national safety structures. Famadewa’s new role offers him the opportunity to move from critique to implementation — testing whether his long-held ideas can translate into tangible improvements in Nigeria’s security landscape.

A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of several health workers in Kwara State, casting a shadow over this year’s Workers’ Day celebrations. The incident occurred on Friday along the Oke-Onigbin–Omu Aran highway as members of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) were returning from the 2026 May Day rally held at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin. According to eyewitness accounts, the crash happened in the evening after one of the vehicles conveying the workers suffered a tyre burst. The driver reportedly lost control, resulting in a devastating collision. While the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, multiple fatalities have been reported. The victims were said to be members of MHWUN from Ekiti Local Government Area, who had participated in the annual Workers’ Day celebration before embarking on their journey home. Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Council, Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, described the loss as a painful blow not only to the council but also to the health sector and the state at large. “Our hearts are heavy. These were dedicated professionals who left their homes to celebrate the dignity of labour but never returned,” he said. “We have lost individuals who served their communities with compassion and commitment.” He added that the tragedy has turned what should have been a moment of unity and celebration into a period of mourning. Survivors of the crash are currently receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals, with authorities expressing hope for their quick recovery. In honour of the deceased, the Kwara State chapter of MHWUN has declared a three-day mourning period and directed all members to fly the union’s flag at half-mast. The local government has also pledged to collaborate with the Kwara State Government and relevant agencies to support the families of the victims and cover medical expenses for the injured. As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in the state has yet to release an official statement or confirm the number of casualties. This heartbreaking incident has left the labour community and residents of the state in deep mourning, as families grieve the loss of loved ones who died in the line of service to humanity.

The Plateau State Police Command has recorded no fewer than 64 cases of rape and defilement since February 2026, according to the Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah. Speaking on Friday while parading 18 suspects in Jos, the state capital, the police boss described the situation as a “disturbing epidemic” and warned that such crimes would no longer be treated as private or family matters. “Rape Is Not a Family Matter” Ewah stressed that sexual offences are criminal acts against the state and must be handled through legal channels—not settled informally. “Rape and defilement are not family matters. No individual or group has the authority to shield offenders from justice,” he said. He also issued a stern warning that anyone attempting to interfere in such cases or plead on behalf of suspects would be treated as an accessory and prosecuted. Disturbing Cases Highlighted The police commissioner shared several ongoing cases, revealing a troubling pattern of abuse, often involving minors and trusted individuals: An 18-year-old suspect was arrested for allegedly assaulting a toddler after repeated incidents. A 19-year-old man was taken into custody for repeatedly abusing a young girl and threatening her into silence. A 40-year-old man was accused of assaulting his niece over a prolonged period, with other suspects still at large. In another case, a woman and a 34-year-old man were arrested following the assault of a teenage girl in her care. Ewah noted that many of these crimes involved victims being abused by people they trusted, including relatives and guardians. Police Crackdown and Zero Tolerance The command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling crime across the state, including sexual offences, illegal arms possession, homicide, and cultism. Among other arrests, police also recovered locally fabricated firearms and investigated a mob killing incident in Jos. Ewah directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to ensure all reported rape and defilement cases are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. “There will be no settlement of such cases at any police division,” he declared. Call for Vigilance The commissioner urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant and proactive in protecting children, encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity. “See something, say something,” he advised. He emphasized that safeguarding vulnerable individuals, especially children, is a collective responsibility and that the police remain committed to ensuring justice is served.

Romuald Wadagni has emerged as the clear winner of Benin’s presidential election, securing more than 94 percent of the vote based on provisional results. According to Sacca Lafia, the figures were compiled from over 90 percent of ballots counted, giving Wadagni a commanding and decisive lead. Voter turnout was recorded at 58.78 percent. Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe conceded defeat, offering congratulations and calling for unity across political lines. Wadagni is seen as the political successor to outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after completing his constitutionally allowed two terms in office. The election took place amid lingering political tension, following a recent failed coup attempt that briefly destabilized the country before security forces restored calm. Although nearly eight million people were eligible to vote, reports indicated a slow start to voting in some areas, including Cotonou. During the campaign period, Hounkpe criticized the government’s economic policies, arguing that despite reported growth—estimated at 7.5 percent in 2024—many citizens have yet to experience real improvements in their daily lives. In contrast, Wadagni promised to improve access to clean water, strengthen social welfare programmes, and enhance healthcare services. His path to victory was further eased by the absence of a candidate from the main opposition party, the Democrats, which did not endorse any contender after failing to meet electoral requirements in earlier legislative polls. Despite the overwhelming win, the incoming administration faces major challenges, particularly in northern regions where attacks linked to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin continue to threaten security. Benin also faces economic pressure, with over 30 percent of the population still living in poverty despite years of steady growth.