Biden, Others Welcome Israeli-Hamas Ceasefire Agreement
US President Joe Biden and global leaders welcomed the Israeli-Hamas ceasefire deal aimed at ending the 15-month war in Gaza. The agreement, announced by Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, includes Israeli troop withdrawal, hostage releases, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Biden acknowledged his administration’s efforts in brokering the deal, with implementation to occur under the incoming administration. The deal, effective Sunday, January 19, is seen as a critical step toward restoring peace and rebuilding Gaza. Read more
Athena Commentary:
Ceasefire agreements are pivotal in resolving conflicts, but their success often depends on clear implementation strategies and consistent international support. Globally, effective peace deals emphasise humanitarian aid, rebuilding efforts, and accountability for all parties involved. For long-term success, frameworks should prioritise trust-building and address root causes of conflict to prevent future escalations.
Akwa Ibom Uncovers 2,000 Ghost Workers in Civil Service
The Akwa Ibom State Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has uncovered over 2,000 ghost workers within the state’s 55,000 civil service workforce. Following an intelligence report, Governor Umo Eno delayed implementing the new N80,000 wage regime to verify the authenticity of employees. The probe, which concluded in 2024, revealed numerous individuals fraudulently collecting salaries for years. The governor assured workers that the delayed salaries, including arrears, would be paid by early 2025. Read more
Athena Commentary: The discovery highlights systemic inefficiencies in payroll management, common in developing economies. Implementing robust digital systems, as seen in countries like Estonia, could enhance transparency and curb such irregularities, ensuring resources are allocated to genuine workers.
Boko Haram Razes Church, Homes in New Chibok Attack
Boko Haram terrorists launched another attack in Chibok, Borno State, razing the Church of Brethren (E.Y.N) and several homes in Shikarkir Ward. This follows a prior attack on Bazir village, where two siblings were killed, and properties destroyed. The insurgents looted livestock and foodstuffs, forcing villagers to flee. Elderly residents narrowly escaped harm but lost their homes. Locals, including Paul Mauntah Yaga, have raised concerns about the worsening security situation in the area. Read more
Athena Commentary: This tragic recurrence underscores Nigeria’s need for enhanced counterterrorism strategies. Nations like Colombia have shown that combining military efforts with robust community support and international collaboration can yield sustainable peace in conflict zones.
N580bn Needed for Airport Runway Renovations – FAAN
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has disclosed the need for N580 billion to rehabilitate runways across the country’s airports, many of which were built in the late 1970s and have exceeded their 20-25 year lifespan. FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, highlighted the urgent need for repairs and upgrades to ensure operational efficiency and safety. Additionally, challenges like land encroachment and heightened security risks demand further investment in modernisation and perimeter fencing to address these issues effectively.
Athena Commentary: Modern aviation hubs, such as those in Singapore or Qatar, exemplify the value of prioritising infrastructure upgrades. Nigeria must adopt long-term funding models and strategic partnerships to achieve global airport standards and bolster safety and efficiency.
Compiled by Aliyu Jalal