The Federal Government has restated its unwavering commitment to ensuring peace and security across all parts of Nigeria, describing it as the cornerstone for the nation’s development and prosperity.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this assertion while speaking in Abuja at his inauguration as the Chairman of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF). Idris emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration considers security not just a priority, but a non-negotiable foundation upon which sustainable economic growth and societal advancement must be built.
“Peace, security, development, and infrastructure are interconnected and mutually reinforcing,” the Minister stated. “Mr. President has made it abundantly clear that security is the bedrock of any meaningful national progress.”
The reaffirmation comes amid heightened concerns over the security situation in parts of the country, particularly the northern regions, where reports of rural violence have left scores dead and thousands displaced. Recognizing these challenges, the Federal Government has intensified its efforts by revising national security strategies, increasing funding for defense, and appointing new leadership within the nation’s security agencies to bolster operations.
Minister Idris, while acknowledging the strides made so far, noted that the Tinubu-led government is determined to address systemic issues such as underfunding, inadequate personnel, and outdated structures that have historically hindered effective security delivery.
Beyond security, Idris praised the efforts of the Niger State Development Forum and its previous leaders, committing to build upon their achievements. He emphasized the role of collective action, noting that the Forum, comprising technocrats and development advocates, would serve as a crucial bridge linking state initiatives with federal policies and private sector opportunities.
“We are a non-political, impartial body, and that is our greatest strength,” Idris said. “Through this platform, we aim to channel ideas, expertise, and innovation into actionable plans that will drive the transformation of our state and the country at large.”
The Minister concluded by urging all Nigerians to support the government’s peace-building efforts, stressing that a united front is essential in overcoming the current security challenges and laying the groundwork for a more prosperous Nigeria.
The Federal Government’s renewed assurance is seen as part of broader efforts to build public confidence and foster an environment that will attract investments, boost infrastructure development, and enhance national cohesion.
NDIC Begins Payment of N46.6 Billion Liquidation Dividends to Heritage Bank Depositors
The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the payment of ₦46.6 billion as the first phase of liquidation dividends to depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank. The payout, which started on Friday, targets depositors whose balances exceeded the insured limit of ₦5 million.
This move comes following the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating license by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 3, 2024, over persistent regulatory infractions and inability to improve its financial condition. Shortly after the license withdrawal, the NDIC paid insured deposits up to ₦5 million to affected account holders through alternative bank accounts identified via the Bank Verification Number (BVN) system.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Head of Communication and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, the current payment covers a 9.2 kobo per naira dividend based on the realized proceeds from the sale of the bank’s assets and recovery of outstanding debts. Gambo explained that liquidation dividends are payments made to uninsured depositors and other creditors of a failed bank after insured deposits have been fully reimbursed.
The Corporation clarified that depositors who are yet to be credited should approach the nearest NDIC office or visit the official website to complete their verification processes. Those without alternate bank accounts linked to their BVNs have been advised to fill out a deposit verification form to facilitate payment.
The NDIC emphasized that additional payments would be made to depositors, creditors, and even shareholders as further recoveries are made from Heritage Bank’s remaining assets. It reassured the public of its commitment to safeguarding depositors’ funds and strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s banking system.
The liquidation of Heritage Bank is one of the latest efforts by financial authorities to sanitize the banking sector and uphold sound financial practices, as Nigeria continues to tighten regulations to ensure economic stability.
