Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s chief of defence staff, has called for the country to build fences along its borders to improve national security.

Speaking at a security conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Musa stressed the need for better control of Nigeria’s borders.

He pointed out that other countries like Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have had to fence their borders with Afghanistan and Iraq because of security problems.

Musa said Nigeria needs to fully secure and control its borders, explaining that the country’s wealth and natural resources are attracting insurgents and criminals.

“It is Nigeria that everybody is interested in. That is why we need to secure fully and take control of our borders. It is critical for our survival and sovereignty.”

Nigeria shares borders with four countries: Niger Republic, Cameroon, Benin, and Chad. All of these neighbouring countries are currently dealing with different levels of insecurity and conflict.

• BusinessDay

From left: Bill Gates and President Tinubu / State House photo.

President Bola Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on American philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

This was in recognition of his contributions to health, education, and poverty alleviation, particularly in Nigeria and across Africa.

The honour was presented during Gates’ visit to Nigeria, which included meetings with President Tinubu and other officials to discuss reforms in the country’s primary healthcare system.

His itinerary also includes participation in the Goalkeepers Nigeria event and engagements with scientists and stakeholders working to expand AI-driven health solutions

The CFR is one of Nigeria’s highest honours, reserved for individuals who have significantly impacted national development or advanced the country’s standing globally.

Gates, who is 69, said his ongoing engagement with Africa is both a “moral responsibility and a strategic investment.”

Dr. HarunaNma Yahaya, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), has emerged the institute’s 61st President.

Yahaya would succeed the outgoing President of ICAN, Mr. Davidson Alabribe, whose tenure of office expired yesterday.

In his acceptance speech , Yahaya said, “given the historic significance of this solemn ceremony and the towering stature of the office I am privileged to assume, I stand before this distinguished audience—and indeed the entire membership of our noble institute—with utmost humility and an abiding sense of duty, to formally accept my election as the 61st President of the ICAN.

“I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit resolute in purpose. By the infinite Grace and Mercy of Almighty Allah, I pledge that I shall not fail, falter, or betray the profound trust reposed in me, regardless of the challenges that may lie ahead.

“I am fully committed to upholding the dignity of this office and to advancing the enduring legacy of our great Institute.”