Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Weekly Subject Experts’ Presentation was held at Hall C, TY Buratai Block, Abuja. There were four presentation made by the Subject Experts on, United State of America, Nigeria, United Kingdom and Indian Sub- Continent.
The first presentation was made by Maj Gen BA Tsoho subject expert on United State of America, his presentation Centred on how, America in Retreat: The Global Impact of U.S. Disengagement. On 9 Mar 25, The Washington Eye News reported on the U.S. retreat from global leadership under President Donald Trump’s second term. Traditionally dominant in shaping international affairs, the United States has shifted towards disengagement, withdrawal from key institutions, reducing military commitments, and redefining alliances. This shift has sparked global realignments, allowing other powers to fill the vacuum. A significant move was Trump’s signing of Executive Order 14155 on January 20, 2025, mandating the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). The administration justified this decision as a response to WHO’s handling of global health crises, but critics argue it weakens global pandemic response and U.S. influence in health policy. The U.S. has also distanced itself from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and Paris Climate Accord, signaling a retreat from global leadership and enabling China and the EU to take on more prominent roles. Similarly, Trump’s approach to military alliances has also reshaped global security. His administration has threatened to cut NATO funding unless European allies increase defense spending, straining relations with the U.K. and Germany. Meanwhile, his reluctance to provide unwavering support for Ukraine against Russia has alarmed European allies. In February 2025, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for what they viewed as a lack of gratitude for U.S. aid, fueling concerns about Western deterrence. In response, European leaders have vowed to provide Ukraine with independent military assistance.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Maj Gen BA Tsoho pointed out that, For Nigeria, a redefinition of its foreign policy thrust is imperative to align with emerging global realities and national priorities.As emphasized by Akinboye (2013), Nigeria’s FP since independence in 1960 has largely been Afrocentric, focusing on the promotion of African unity, decolonization, and regional stability. While this stance was relevant during the Cold War and the post-independence era, it has become increasingly necessary for Nigeria to reassess its FPy direction in light of contemporary global trends. Additionally, the rise of economic diplomacy, shifting alliances, and the increasing significance of technology and security challenges necessitate a new approach to Nigeria’s international engagements. The Nigeria’s continued prioritization of Africa without a corresponding emphasis on economic partnerships with global superpowers and emerging economies like China, India, and Brazil limits its potential for economic expansion. Therefore, a shift towards a more pragmatic and economy-driven foreign policy is essential. Additionally, Nigeria’s global influence has declined due to inconsistencies in diplomatic engagements. As noted by Ogunnubi and Akinola (2020), the country’s leadership in regional and international politics has been weakened by domestic governance challenges, security threats, and economic instability. While Nigeria remains a dominant force in West Africa, its ability to shape regional and global discussions is increasingly challenged by countries like South Africa, Egypt, and even smaller but strategically positioned nations.
He recommended that, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should prioritize economic diplomacy and enhance Nigeria’s participation in AfCFTA and also The Ministry of Defense should strengthen national security by improving military capabilities and intelligence to prevent external influence.
Similarly, the second presentation was made by Maj Gen UN Babangida subject expert on Nigeria, his presentation discussed on how, EFCC Intercepts 8 Trucks Conveying Illegal Solid Minerals in Makurdi. Operatives of the EFCC, Makurdi Zonal Directorate, intercepted 8 trucks conveying suspected illegal solid minerals. The trucks were intercepted at Katsina-ala Local Government Area of Benue State. Solid minerals suspected to be fluorite and iron stones were recovered from the trucks. The minerals were said to be allegedly mined from some illegal mining sites in the Logo Local Government Area of Benue State. The suspects would soon be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Maj Gen UN Babangida stressed out that, the interception of 8 trucks transporting suspected illegally mined solid minerals by EFCC highlights the persistent challenge of illegal mining in Nigeria. The fact that the minerals were sourced from unauthorized mining sites suggests exploitation of the country’s mineral resources without due process. Over 80% of mining involving approximately 2,000,000 people in Northern Nigeria States is illegally carried out According to the Institute for Security Studies, over 5,000 lives have been lost as a result of illegal mining in Zamfara State alone. The Benue State incident underscores the weaknesses in Nigeria’s regulatory framework, where illicit mining activities continue to thrive despite existing policies. It also raises concerns about environmental degradation, loss of government revenue, and the involvement of organized crime in resource theft. A key lesson for Nigeria from this development is the urgent need to strengthen oversight mechanisms and enforcement agencies responsible for managing the solid minerals sector. The EFCC’s proactive action is commendable, but it highlights the necessity of deeper collaboration between security agencies, the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, and local authorities to curb illegal mining. The government could introduce stricter penalties and enhance surveillance to deter both miners and those who facilitate the illegal trade, such as transporters and middlemen.
He recommended that, The Federal Government should enhance illegal mining joint task force involving the EFCC, Police, NSCDC, and the Ministry of Mines to coordinate enforcement efforts and intelligence sharing.
Equally, the third presentation was made by Maj Gen MT Jinadu subject expert on United Kingdom, his presentation Centred on Ditches and Canals are Big, Yet Overlooked, Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions – New Study. On 7 March, the University of Liverpool published an article by Dr Teresa Silverton and Dr Mike Peacock from the School of Environmental Sciences, highlighting the significance of ditches and canals in contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Their study, which involved collecting and analyzing water samples from ditches, emphasizes the role of these human-made waterways in global climate change. A ditch is a small to moderate trench dug to channel water, often for drainage or irrigation while a canal is a larger, manmade waterway typically used for transportation or irrigation. The estimated total length of main canal in Nigeria is 700km (ENPLAN GROUP November, 2004) while the space occupied by inland waterways is estimated at 900sqkm (Ekiye and Zejia, 2010) which represent 0.1% of the total land mass.
Ditches and canals, often overlooked in freshwater research, are substantial sources of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). The study revealed that ditches emit more CO₂ and N₂O per unit surface area than ponds, lakes, and reservoirs. Researchers estimated that ditches contribute up to 1% of global freshwater CO₂ emissions and up to 9% of N₂O emissions.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Maj Gen MT Jinadu noted that, Nigeria, despite not being fully industrialized, faces significant challenges related to GHG emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Nigeria’s total GHG emissions linked to energy were 189 million metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (MtCO₂e) in 2022, marking a 20% increase from 1990 levels. This accounts for less than 0.8% of global emissions, with per capita emissions below 2 tons annually, compared to the global average of over 6 tons. However, Nigeria remains among the top 25 highest emitters globally (IEA,2022). The primary sources of these emissions include oil and gas production, land-use changes, forestry, agriculture, and fugitive emissions. The nation’s heavy reliance on oil production poses challenges to achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2060. According to a survey conducted in seven Nigerian states by SBM Intelligence, approximately 79% of farmers were impacted by drought and flooding in 2020, with 26.3% experiencing significant disruptions to their harvests. Similarly, the energy sector, particularly hydropower generation, has been affected by unpredictable rainfall and drought patterns, leading to decreased power output and disruptions in industrial activities reliant on stable electricity supply.
He recommended that, The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development should initiate a policy to restrict the use of fertilizers and manures along ditches and canals to improve carbon sequestration.
Lastly the four presentation was made by Maj Gen JD Omali subject expert Indian Sub- Continent his presentation focused on, The Indian Aviation Sector Continues to Soar, and the Best is Yet to Come. On 9 March 2025, Business Today reported that India’s aviation sector has experienced significant growth over the past decade. The number of airports has more than doubled from 74 to nearly 160, while annual passenger traffic has surged from 120 million to over 236 million. The aircraft fleet has also doubled to over 800 and is projected to exceed 1,500 by 2030. In 2024, India recorded a 6% growth in domestic air traffic, ranking second globally after China and surpassing Spain and the UK to become the world’s third-largest aviation market. The expansion of airports, including those at Jewar and Navi Mumbai, is expected to stimulate economic growth in 2025, benefiting related sectors such as cargo, Air Navigation Services (ANS), Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), IT systems, and retail.
The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN), introduced under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP 2016), has improved connectivity, with over 15 million passengers flying under the initiative as of January 2025. Privatizing key airports and the national carrier has also enhanced capital investment, fleet expansion, and service quality. Indian airlines increasingly focus on long-haul routes, aiming to position India as a global aviation hub by 2030. Strengthening Airport Collaborative Decision Making (ACDM) and optimizing airspace management with advanced navigation systems such as GAGAN could improve efficiency.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Maj Gen JD Omali pointed out that, the inception of Nigeria’s aviation industry dates back to the colonial era, with the establishment of basic airstrips and the introduction of commercial flights primarily serving administrative purposes. During the post-independence era, the sector witnessed the birth of Nigeria Airways in 1958, symbolizing national pride and ambition. However, due to mismanagement and financial constraints, Nigeria Airways ceased operations in 2003, leaving a vacuum in the national aviation landscape.
Since then, the trajectory of Nigeria’s aviation sector has been marked by phases of both stagnation and growth. The early 2000s saw a proliferation of private airlines attempting to fill the void left by Nigeria Airways. However, many faced operational challenges, leading to a high turnover rate. A significant indicator of growth is the increase in the number of registered aircraft. As reported by Nairametrics in May 2023, the total number of aircraft in the Nigerian registry surged from 175 in 2015 to 358 in 2023, marking a 100% increase over eight years. Similarly, the number of airports expanded from 27 to 40 during the same period, reflecting infrastructural development. Due to the improvement, passenger traffic became eminent. In 2021, The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) reported that the Nigerian airports recorded a total of 13,006,481 domestic passengers, a 43.41% increase from the 9,069,295 passengers in 2020. International passenger traffic also saw a substantial rise, with 2,219,146 passengers in 2021 compared to 1,408,026 in 2020, indicating a 57.61% growth rate.
He recommended that, The Federal Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development should prioritize airport expansion and modernization through public-private partnerships to enhance regional connectivity and passenger capacity.
