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New GSOA Leadership To Drive Satellite Industry’s Role In A Connected, Sustainable Future

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New GSOA Leadership To Drive Satellite Industry’s Role In A Connected, Sustainable Future

…..Ali Al Hashemi Appointed Chair of GSOA Board; Adel Al-Saleh and Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen Named Vice Chairs

GSOA is delighted to announce the appointment of Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, as its new Chair of the Board, alongside two new Vice Chairs: Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, and Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NIGCOMSAT.

GSOA represents the full satellite ecosystem, from established operators to emerging innovators across all orbits and frequency bands. In an era of accelerating digital transformation, satellite technology has become a critical enabler of innovation, sustainability, and social inclusion – helping to connect the unconnected, power digital economies, and deliver resilient communications in even the most remote or underserved regions.

Ali Al Hashemi, new Chair and CEO of Space Services, Space42, said, “This is deeply meaningful to me personally and professionally. Having served as Vice Chair of GSOA since 2023, this election reflects the trust and confidence my fellow industry leaders have placed in me and our region’s contributions to global satellite innovation. I am honored by this responsibility and excited to build on GSOA’s incredible foundation. Our region has always been at the crossroads of innovation and connection, and I’m thrilled to bring that perspective to an industry that literally connects our world.”

Adel Al-Saleh, new Vice Chair and CEO of SES added: “The satellite industry is going through unprecedented transformation, driven by multi-orbit architectures, cloud integration, and growing demand for low-latency and resilient networks. GSOA’s leadership in helping shape regulatory frameworks and policy dialogue is critical, and I look forward to contributing to this important work.”

Jane Egerton-Idehen, new Vice Chair and CEO of NIGCOMSAT, emphasised the power of satellite to deliver equitable digital access. “In emerging markets, satellite is often the only viable solution to bridge the digital divide. I am proud to help bring diverse perspectives to the global conversation and support GSOA in promoting inclusive and sustainable connectivity,” she affirms.

Ali Al Hashemi

Under its new leadership, GSOA will continue to advocate for fair spectrum access, balanced regulatory policies, and responsible use of space. The association is actively engaged in global fora to promote sustainable practices, protect orbital environments, and ensure satellite services remain a key pillar of resilient infrastructure worldwide.

Isabelle Mauro, Director General of GSOA, welcomed the appointments, stating: “Ali, Adel, and Jane bring unique insights and leadership at a time when global collaboration across the ecosystem is more important than ever. GSOA’s role is to unite the satellite industry to speak with one voice to promote the essential value we bring to society, from emergency response and climate monitoring to universal broadband access.”

GSOA is committed to advancing a connected, innovative, and sustainable future — and ensuring that the satellite industry continues to serve as a cornerstone of the global digital economy.

About GSOA

GSOA is the leading global CEO-driven association representing Communication and Earth Observation satellite operators in GEO, MEO and LEO orbits, manufacturers, launch providers, ground segment players and other stakeholders from the entire satellite ecosystem. It serves as the premier platform for industry collaboration, addressing global challenges, unlocking opportunities, and advocating with a unified voice for the satellite sector.
GSOA advocates for satellite technology’s critical role in global connectivity, providing strategic insights, facilitating partnerships, and driving initiatives that enhance its role in global infrastructure. Through exclusive networking opportunities, regulatory engagement, and market intelligence, our members benefit from a dynamic platform for growth.

Recognised as the global representative body for the satellite industry, GSOA engages with regulators, policymakers, and global organisations like 3GPP, DIFI, ITU, and WEF and regional organisations to shape the future of connectivity, and focus in bridging digital and economic divides across both developed and emerging economies. For more details contact GSOA.

NNPC GCEO Seeks Stronger African Collaboration On Energy Security

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NNPC GCEO Seeks Stronger African Collaboration On Energy Security

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to partnering with other African nations to achieve sustainable energy security across the continent.

Speaking at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) National Oil Companies CEOs Forum, Ojulari underscored the need for Africa to accelerate its energy transition and safeguard its energy future in light of the gradual withdrawal of European investments in fossil fuel refineries, most of which are projected to be phased out by 2030.

“Africa must take ownership of its resources and policies. Our policies should be designed by us. With our vast resource base and improved governance structures, I am confident the continent can secure its energy destiny,” he stated.

Highlighting NNPC’s ongoing infrastructure projects, Ojulari pointed to the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, aimed at boosting domestic connectivity, and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline Project, an expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), designed to foster regional integration and cross-border energy trade. He revealed that the first phase would extend the pipeline to Côte d’Ivoire before reaching Morocco.

The GCEO also emphasized the enabling environment provided by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which he said continues to attract new investment opportunities across the oil and gas value chain.

On security, he disclosed that Nigeria has achieved 100% pipeline availability for the first time in 20 years through strengthened collaboration with host communities and security agencies, a milestone he said has restored investor confidence in the resilience of the country’s energy infrastructure.

Ojulari further noted that NNPC Ltd. is benchmarking global energy giants such as Petrobras, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco, and expressed readiness to deepen collaboration with African peers to unlock the continent’s full energy potential.

Integrity Youth Alliance Counters Claims On Police Microfinance Bank, Officers’ Salaries

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Integrity Youth Alliance Counters Claims On Police Microfinance Bank, Officers’ Salaries

The Integrity Youth Alliance has refuted allegations by the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) that police personnel face “untold hardship” in accessing their salaries through the Police Microfinance Bank (PMFB).

RULAAC’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, had alleged that officers were compelled to domicile their accounts with the bank and often experienced delays and restrictions in withdrawing their salaries.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the Integrity Youth Alliance described the claims as false, misleading, and aimed at discrediting the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the police institution.

The group maintained that officers are not subjected to recurring salary delays, stressing that just as the Federal Government ensures prompt salary disbursement, the Police Microfinance Bank also guarantees seamless access to officers’ pay.

On the claim that police personnel were compelled to use PMFB, the alliance noted that no such directive exists, adding that the few issues encountered by some officers were routine account documentation matters in line with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations, not systemic challenges.

It further clarified that the operations of the bank are managed by its Board of Directors, not the IGP, and rejected suggestions that the police chief should intervene in the day-to-day running of the institution.

“The Police Microfinance Bank has not been confronted with criticisms of inefficiency, weak infrastructure, or poor service delivery as claimed. Instead, it continues to deliver effectively on its mandate of supporting police welfare,” the statement said.

The group urged the public to disregard what it described as a mischievous narrative and encouraged stakeholders to verify facts before making allegations against critical national institutions.

Delta Police Rescue Kidnap Victim, Arrest 27 Suspects For Armed Robbery, Gun Possession, And Illicit Drugs

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Delta Police Rescue Kidnap Victim, Arrest 27 Suspects For Armed Robbery, Gun Possession, And Illicit Drugs

The Delta State Police Command has recorded significant successes in its renewed fight against crime, with the rescue of a kidnapped victim, the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, and the apprehension of 27 suspects linked to armed robbery, illicit drug activities, and unlawful possession of firearms.

According to a press release signed by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, acting on credible intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Agbor Division, CSP Obekpa Michael, led a tactical team to Oza Nogogo community, where they raided the residence of one Bila Halili, 30, from Kosso community, Sokoto State.

During the operation, the police rescued Rebecca Mathew, a young girl from Bodinga community in Washegu LGA, Niger State, who had been reported missing since September 2, 2025. Investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly lured the victim away, destroyed her SIM card to cut off communication, and may have hypnotised her.

The victim has since been reunited with her family, while the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

In a separate operation on September 9, 2025, operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad, in collaboration with the Nigeria Hunters Forest Security Service (NHFSS), raided a suspected criminal hideout at Basket Market, Asaba–Benin Road, Uromi Junction.

The operation, led by SP Yunusa Danyaya, resulted in the arrest of 27 adult suspects. A locally fabricated cut-to-size firearm and large quantities of illicit drugs were recovered at the scene. The suspects are currently being interrogated, with further investigations underway.

Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, praised the operatives for their professionalism and proactive efforts. He reiterated the importance of community involvement in tackling crime.

“Security is everybody’s business,” the CP stated, urging residents to provide timely and credible information to assist the police in curbing criminal activities.

The Command reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to ensuring safety and security across Delta State.

Sahara Reporters And The Misrepresentation Of Sowore’s Case

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Sahara Reporters And The Misrepresentation Of Sowore’s Case

By Kelvin Adegbenga

In recent days, Sahara Reporters has once again resorted to its usual tactics of twisting facts and misinforming the public regarding the ongoing criminal charges against its publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore.

The publication has described the charges bordering on alleged terrorism financing, forgery of police wireless message, and cybercrime as “bogus” and “trumped up.” Nothing could be further from the truth.

The reality is clear: the charges before the Federal High Court, Abuja, are legitimate, properly instituted, and grounded in law.

To portray them as defective or as an attempt to shrink Nigeria’s civil space is a deliberate distortion.

One must not forget that publishing documents marked “confidential” is a direct violation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and also runs contrary to provisions of the Police Act 2020 (as amended).

The forgery and publication of a police wireless message is an act of criminality, not activism, and no society governed by the rule of law can tolerate such reckless impunity.

Even worse is the brazen character assassination carried out by Sahara Reporters when it maliciously referred to a dedicated female police officer as a “mistress” of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

This is not journalism, it is a smear campaign, and it violates both ethical standards of reporting and constitutional safeguards against defamation.

Sahara Reporters has also attempted to malign the integrity of Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, falsely claiming he is “toeing the line of the prosecution.”

This reckless attack on a sitting judge undermines the sanctity of the judiciary. For the record, Justice Nwite was never forced to adjourn the matter.

He exercised his discretion as the presiding judge and at no point backed down on ensuring that Sowore eventually takes his plea. To suggest otherwise is an insult to the judiciary and a dangerous attempt to whip up public sentiment against the court.

Furthermore, the claim by Sowore’s counsel, Marshal, that the IGP and the police are aggrieved because Sowore and a group of retired police officers staged a protest for better welfare is patently false.

The charges against Sowore have nothing to do with welfare protests but everything to do with terrorism financing, cybercrime, and forgery of official police communications, offences the law rightly takes very seriously.

It is high time Sahara Reporters and Sowore’s legal team respected the authority of the Federal High Court. They must stop preempting judicial processes and harassing the presiding judge through media propaganda.

Nigeria is a country governed by laws, and no individual, no matter his political ambition or media influence, is above those laws.

The facts speak for themselves: these charges are not bogus, they are not defective, and they are certainly not an attempt to stifle free speech. They are a lawful response to criminal allegations that must be tried in court, not in the media.

 

Kelvin Adegbenga is the National Coordinator of Integrity Youth Alliance and writes from Wuse II, Abuja. email: kelvinadegbenga@yahoo.com 

Integrity Youth Alliance Counters False Claims Against IGP Egbetokun, Defends Judiciary

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Integrity Youth Alliance Counters False Claims Against IGP Egbetokun, Defends Judiciary

The Integrity Youth Alliance has dismissed as false and misleading a social media post credited to the Take It Back Movement, which questioned the decision of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and described the charges against serial AAC Presidential Candidate, Omoyele Sowore, as “another baseless attack by Police under an illegal IGP Egbetokun.”

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, the Alliance clarified that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, was constitutionally appointed in line with the Nigeria Police Act 2020 (as amended) and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The claim that IGP Egbetokun is ‘illegal’ is a deliberate falsehood aimed at undermining the credibility of Nigeria’s foremost law enforcement institution,” the group stated.

The Alliance further stressed that only the Federal High Court has the authority to adjudicate on the forgery case against Mr. Sowore, warning that the Take It Back Movement has no power to declare the case “fake” or to preempt judicial processes.

On Sowore’s claims that Police prosecutors were “flustered and floored” in court, the group dismissed the remarks as “another baseless fabrication,” insisting that the Nigeria Police Force prosecution team remains professional and committed to upholding justice.

The Integrity Youth Alliance urged Nigerians to disregard what it described as malicious propaganda by individuals and groups with vested political interests.

It reaffirmed confidence in the judiciary to dispense justice fairly and in the Police under IGP Egbetokun to discharge its constitutional duties without fear or favour.

IGP Egbetokun Represents Nigeria At Global Security Forum In China

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IGP Egbetokun Represents Nigeria At Global Security Forum In China

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum (GPSCF) holding from 16th to 18th September 2025 in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China.

According to a press release signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the high-level forum, convened by the Chinese government, brings together ministers of security, police chiefs, law enforcement leaders, and security experts from around the world to discuss strategies for combating transnational crime, strengthening international partnerships, and enhancing global public safety.

As part of the programme, IGP Egbetokun is scheduled to deliver a keynote address on 18th September on the theme “Combating Transnational Crime and Countermeasures.” His presentation will highlight Nigeria’s counter-crime initiatives, ongoing policing reforms, and international collaborations aimed at dismantling cross-border criminal networks.

Ahead of the event, the IGP will meet with China’s Deputy Minister of Public Security, Mr. Qi Yanjun, on 15th September to explore stronger bilateral cooperation, intelligence sharing, and capacity-building opportunities between both countries.

The participation of the Nigerian police chief at the forum underscores the country’s commitment to international security cooperation and its proactive approach to emerging global threats.

South West Youth Alliance Counters Sahara Reporters’ Claims On Police Promotions

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South West Youth Alliance Counters Sahara Reporters’ Claims On Police Promotions

The South West Youth Alliance has dismissed as false and misleading, a report published by Sahara Reporters alleging bias and irregularities in the ongoing promotion exercise within the Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Adenike Ajanlekoko, the group described the allegations as baseless and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of the IGP, stressing that due process has been strictly adhered to in all promotion exercises carried out under his watch.

The group clarified that the recent promotions of Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) were based on special recommendations for officers honoured during the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations held on June 4, 2025, at the Police Resource Centre, Abuja. It maintained that the exercise was neither arbitrary nor in violation of established principles.

Contrary to insinuations by Sahara Reporters and what it described as a faceless group of aggrieved officers, the Alliance insisted that IGP Egbetokun has not undermined the long-standing principle of seniority within the Force. Instead, it said, the IGP has consistently demonstrated commitment to professionalism, merit, and fairness.

The group further emphasized that IGP Egbetokun remains committed to professionalizing the Nigeria Police Force by ensuring that officers, particularly those in the inspectorate cadre and rank-and-file with HND, B.Sc., Master’s, and doctoral degrees, are promoted in line with their qualifications and contributions.

On the case of CSP Ibrahim Sini, the officer who rejected a ₦150 million bribe in 2024, the South West Youth Alliance noted that his name was not brought before the IGP by the Police Award Committee at the time of compiling the list. It expressed confidence that, given the IGP’s well-known record of rewarding integrity and professionalism, the oversight was not deliberate and would be addressed in due course.

The Alliance urged the public to disregard the allegations and reaffirmed its confidence in IGP Egbetokun’s leadership, which it said continues to place professionalism, integrity, and merit above sentiment.

itel Wins Most Impactful CSR Of The Year At Titan Of Tech Awards

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itel Wins Most Impactful CSR Of The Year At Titan Of Tech Awards

Leading mobile technology and smart life brand, itel, has clinched the prestigious Most Impactful CSR of the Year Award at the Titan of Tech Awards and Game Changers Gala Night, held on July 25, 2025, at the elegant Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.

This accolade comes in recognition of itel’s far-reaching Love Always On CSR initiative, which has continued to transform lives across Nigeria through a series of purposeful, community-driven projects.

In the first half of 2025, itel demonstrated unwavering commitment to social good by executing two high-impact CSR programmes. On April 16, itel commissioned an electric borehole at Brigade Gama (B), Kasuwar Takari community, located in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, addressing a long-standing water scarcity issue and directly contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6; ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.

Furthermore, to commemorate Children’s Day 2025, itel, in partnership with the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Channel 10, donated learning materials to over 51 schools during a grand celebration held at the NTA Grounds, Tejuosho Avenue, Yaba, Lagos. This initiative aligns with SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.

Speaking to newsmen at the awards ceremony, Terngu Simeon Shagba, Public Relations Supervisor at itel Mobile Nigeria, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the recognition:

“This award is a reflection of itel’s genuine desire to make life better for people in underserved communities. We believe love is an action word – and through our Love Always On campaigns, we’ve shown that brands can lead with empathy, inclusion, and purpose.”

Echoing this sentiment, Dolapo Samuel Olorun-nimbe, ATL Marketing Manager at itel, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to impactful community engagement:

“itel doesn’t just sell devices; we try to improve our society. Guided by the belief that technology and kindness go hand in hand, our CSR initiatives are focused on building stronger communities and a brighter tomorrow. As a tech empowerment brand, we are committed to making innovation accessible to all by designing products that are reliable, and inclusive, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of smart living.”

itel’s Love Always On initiative has now become a beacon of corporate responsibility in Nigeria, delivering tangible results that resonate across sectors; from education to public health and beyond.
As the brand continues to innovate and expand its reach, it remains deeply committed to sustainable development and empowering communities; proving that itel is more than a smart life brand; it is a brand that cares deeply about its customers and prospects. Through its New itel, New Experience philosophy, itel emphasizes delivering quality products that meet the evolving needs of its users while enriching lives across every touchpoint.

AFRICMIL To Host Forum For Judges On Whistleblowing And Whistleblower Protection

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AFRICMIL To Host Forum For Judges On Whistleblowing And Whistleblower Protection

The African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) will on Thursday, September 18, 2025, convene Nigeria’s first National Interactive Forum for Judges on Whistleblowing and Whistleblower Protection in the nation’s capital, Abuja. Convened in partnership with Tap iNitiative, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI) and Progressive Impact Organisation for Community Development (PRIMORG), the theme of the forum is: The Judiciary and Whistleblower Protection in Nigeria: Challenges and Responsibilities.

It is billed as a landmark endeavour aimed at deepening judicial understanding of the critical role of the courts in protecting whistleblowers and interpreting emerging norms in the legal environment of whistleblowing. It forms part of AFRICMIL’s sustained advocacy for a dedicated whistleblower protection law in Nigeria. The workshop will feature select judges of the Federal High Courts across the six zones of the country. Also expected are heads of anti-corruption agencies, police, members of civil society organisations and the media. The keynote speech will be delivered by Anthony Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission. A five-member panel will reflect on the address and share perspectives on the forum’s theme.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Dr Chido Onumah, AFRICMIL said: “The judiciary is the cornerstone of any effective whistleblower protection system. As we continue to advocate a robust legal framework, it is imperative that our judges are equipped with the knowledge and perspective to handle whistleblower cases with wisdom and fairness. This forum will create a space for dialogue between the judiciary and civil society on this matter of urgent public importance.”

The forum will focus on issues such as balancing transparency with national security, ensuring the anonymity of whistleblowers, and adjudicating cases of retaliation. It will also provide a platform for sharing best practices and developing a harmonised approach to whistleblower litigation. AFRICMIL noted that nine years after Nigeria introduced a whistleblower policy through the Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit (PICA), the absence of a law has weakened public confidence. While the policy led to significant recoveries of stolen funds in its early years, the lack of legal protection has discouraged citizens from reporting wrongdoing.

“A well-informed judiciary is essential for the success of any whistleblower legislation. The enactment of a law is only the first step. Its effectiveness will ultimately be determined by the courts. We are therefore proactively engaging the guardians of our constitution to build consensus on the importance of protecting citizens who expose corruption,” the statement added. AFRICMIL called on the government to treat this initiative as a complementary effort in the fight against corruption and to accelerate the process of transmitting a draft whistleblower protection bill to the National Assembly.

The event is supported by the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF), MacArthur Foundation, Whistleblowing International Network (WIN), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN).

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