Author: Sumaila Ogbaje

Intensify efforts in actualising safe, secure nation – CAS tells commanders

NAF

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has charged commanders to be proactive and to intensify efforts in actulising a safe and secure nation.

Abubakar gave the charge at the opening of the meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding and Directors as well as the entire senior leadership cadre of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on Wednesday in Abuja.

He reiterated the commitment of the NAF alongside sister services to reinvigorating the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other security threats facing the nation.

”All these threats have global and regional perspectives and attendant impacts on Nigeria’s national security,” he said.

He added that the implications of the broader strategic external security outlook must never be overlooked.

The CAS said that key global and regional challenges like the Russian-Ukraine war, upsurge in coups in West Africa and withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), had negative impacts on collective regional security architecture.

He also said that the withdrawals of UN troops from MINUSMA, 2000 Chadian troops from Mali as well as Niger Republic troops from the Multi-National Joint Task Force could aggravate the security challenges in the Sahel Region.

He noted that this could cause the influx of more weapons and terrorists into Nigeria.

”Invariably, this situation militates against our counterinsurgency efforts. Consequently, we would likely witness a continued growth in the pattern of threats I have previously highlighted.

”Hence, it is no gainsaying that we must be proactive and intensify our efforts to meet the Federal Government and Nigerian citizens’ expectations for an expeditious actualisation of a peaceful, safe and secure nation for prosperity to thrive.

”In the past 12 months, to enhance our gains against these  threats of terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other criminal activities,  we have re-strategised  and  adopted new  air power measures in line with my command philosophy,” he said.

Abubakar further said the NAF had so far, achieved modest, yet significant progress in fighting insurgency, terrorism, banditry, oil theft and other criminal activities in the country.

He commended the top officers and commanders for their efforts and support over the last 12 months, adding that there was still so much more to do.

According to him, the harsh economic realities such as high rate of youth unemployment, increasing inflation and high multi-dimensional poverty have further aggravated the security situation in the country.

He explained that the leadership meeting was crucial, as it would holistically review their performances and actions in the past 12 months in transforming the NAF to effectively meet the air power demands of Nigeria’s security.

He added that the purpose of the meeting was to look back at the set objectives in line with his command philosophy and key enablers, discuss performances and achievements as well as the militating challenges.

According to him, the meeting will also allow us to directly interact and exchange ideas towards achieving more in the coming year, going forward.

”I assure you of my commitment to continuous improvement at all levels in the NAF,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/DCO/SH

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Sadiya Hamza

NAF airstrikes neutralise over 80 terrorists in Katsina

Airstrikes

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), says the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji, has eliminated more than 80 terrorists in recent air strikes at Gidan Kare Village of Ruwan Godiya Ward in Faskare Local Government Area of Katsina State.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Monday in Abuja.

Gabkwet said the air strikes carried out on the night of June 15 killed the terrorists and burnt more than 45 motorcycles.

He said the strikes became necessary following intelligence that terrorists numbering over 100 were reportedly burning houses at a settlement about five kilometers away from Gidan Kare Village.

According to him, overhead the village at about 8.30pm, several houses were observed to be on fire with the entire Village in pandemonium.

“Moments later, 12 motor cycles were seen departing the Village and trailed along a footpath out of the village to a location near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp, where they joined a large number of their cohorts.

“Other terrorists were also observed arriving the location from different directions, an indication that the location was a mass up point with the terrorists likely planning to further attack nearby villages.

“Having been presented such a rare opportunity, authorization was sought, obtained and the location was immediately struck at exactly 9:40pm, with over 80 terrorists confirmed eliminated and about 45 motorcycles burnt down, while few surviving terrorists were observed fleeing or limping off.

“Further intelligence received after the strike also revealed  that the terrorists were closely linked with notorious terrorists kingpin, Yusuf Yellow and his close associate Rabe Imani.

“These strikes, along with others before now, have no doubt  disrupted terrorists activities in the area,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had commended the efforts of the air component as well as other security agencies in diminishing the capabilities of terrorist elements in the North West.

The CAS made the commendation when he fête the air component at 213 Forward Operating Base, Katsina on Monday.

He said the successes by the air component in synergy with other security agencies had continued to contribute to security within the region.

He urged them not to relent in their efforts and dedication to the fight against terrorism and all forms of criminality in Nigeria.

Abubakar had inaugurated some airfield facilities such as the new taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and the new sports complex.

He said the airfield facilities would no doubt ensure air operations, especially within the Northwest, are more effective and efficient. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/MNA

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

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Eid-el Kabir: NDC Alumni distributes palliatives to over 600 beneficiaries

Palliative

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), on Monday, distributed meat palliative to no fewer than 600 beneficiaries in Abuja.

The association made the distribution in collaboration with Near Foundation as part Eid-el Kabir celebration.

The President of AANDEC, retired Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi, said the distribution was an annual event aimed at providing support for the military community especially the NDC community.

Abdullahi said the beneficiaries were drawn from the barracks and widows of fallen heroes,  as well as selected vulnerable members of the society.

According to him, a total of 15 cows were donated by the donor partners to be slaughtered and distributed to the beneficiaries at the premises of the college.

Abdullahi said the association had in the last four years been organising such humanitarian activities for the NDC community, widows of fallen heroes and also the needy amongst  them.

“This is to help them overcome some of the suffering that a lot of them are going through.

“We all know the situation of things at the moment because of the cost of things and survival is a matter of very serious issue at the moment.

“So this is to enhance the livelihood of so many of our personnel’s family, the widows and also those who are in very serious need for this,” he said.

He thanked the donor partners for the continuous support and urged all well-meaning Nigerians to support the effort of the Federal Government in addressing the current hardship in the country.

“What is happening here today shows that more individuals and organisations would come out to support.

“About 15 cows have been slaughtered today, yet it is still not enough.

“So we have to find a way to support the increase, whatever we are doing,” he said.

The Project Coordinator, of the Near Foundation, Abdulmalik Bulakos, said the foundation has always reached out to people during times of need and festive period like the Eid-el Kabir with distribution of palliatives.

Bulakos said the partnership with AANDEC was borne out of the desire to touch every segment of the society, especially the families of fallen heroes.

According to him, those are people whose husbands have served this nation and we find it detrimental at this crucial moment to see how we extend our hands to them.

The Wife of the Commandant of NDC and Coordinator, NDC Officers Wives Association, Mrs Rhoda Olotu, commended AANDEC for bringing succor to NDC staff and families of fallen heroes.

Olotu, who was represented by Dr Emmanuella Alieze, said the NDC community was happy for the distribution of cow meat for the sallah celebration.

“I am here to thank Near Foundation and AANDEC for bringing this to our community and I pray that God will replenish wherever you brought this from 10,000 times,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Troops eliminate marauding terrorist in Kaduna

Terrorist

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Army on Sunday said its troops eliminated a terrorist identified as a cohort of a notorious terrorist commander known as Buharin Yadi, who was eliminated by troops in a recent encounter.

The army, in a post on its official X Handle, said the terrorist was in transit to commit mayhem during the ongoing Eid-el Kabir celebration in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

It said the terrorist met his Waterloo when troops projecting fighting patrol to Kidandan, a village in Giwa LGA, spotted him speeding off on a motorbike, in an attempt to evade the approaching patrol team.

According to the post, the vigilant troops swiftly pursued the terrorist, causing him to abandon his motorbike and fled into a nearby settlement.

“Undeterred, the troops continued to trail the fleeing terrorist until they successfully caught up and neutralised him while frantically trying to escape into the bush, at the outskirts of the community.

“Upon searching the area, the troops recovered the abandoned motorbike, two bags containing corn flour, and a mobile phone from the neutralised terrorist.

“Further verification by operatives from the intelligence community confirmed the identity of the terrorist as one Daushe, a known cohort of Buharin Yadi, who had been recently neutralised by troops in the same area.

“The swift and coordinated efforts of the security forces have once again prevented a potential threat to the community,” it said.

The post added that the troops were currently maintaining a strong presence in the area to ensure a smooth and trouble-free Sallah celebration in Giwa Local Government Area. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/EBI/AMM

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Edited by Benson Iziama and Abiemwense Moru

Troops

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has commended troops of the Nigerian Army for their commitment and gallantry in confronting the security challenges and threats in the country.

Lagbaja gave the commendation on Sunday in Abuja, in his goodwill message to the troops and their families on the occasion of the Eid-el Kabir celebration.

He described the Eid-el-Kabir as a significant festival depicting the important place of sacrifice in humanity and divinity.

The COAS said the 2024 Eid-el Kabir celebration was also remarkable, as it coincided with the completion of his first year in office as the 23rd Chief of Army Staff.

He expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and the relative peace restored in many troubled parts of the country.

He acknowledged the enormous sacrifice made by the army, both in human and logistics resources, in the ongoing battle against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, secessionist agitations and sundry crimes.

Lagbaja said the troops had displayed unalloyed loyalty, extraordinary courage and faith in the nation, thereby, emerging victorious in the face of grave danger.

He added that many of them currently bore the badge of courage and bravery in the form of battle scars and injuries, while others carried the memories and stories of their sacrifices for the country.

The COAS enjoined all Nigerians to show collective understanding and support for the government’s efforts to implement necessary reforms to restore economic prosperity.

He also urged all personnel and their families to renew their commitment to selflessness and patriotism for the growth and development of the country.

The army chief, however, reaffirmed his dedication to providing visionary and inclusive leadership needed for effective training, robust living standards and operational effectiveness.

He expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, for his unflinching support and leadership.

Lagbaja also extended appreciation to the National Assembly, Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff, for their strategic guidance.

He lauded Nigerians and the international community for their continuous support and belief in the Nigerian Army.

According to him, the Nigerian Army looks forward to continued collaboration to end security challenges and create an enabling environment for economic prosperity and other democratic dividends. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Emmanuel Afonne

Sallah

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to secure the nation through sacrifices and dedication of troops in all parts of the country.

Musa gave the assurance in his message to the Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir on Sunday in Abuja.

He said that the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim served as reference point for loyalty and dedication to Almighty Allah from generations.

He said members of the armed forces had remained committed to the democratic tenets,and  their loyalty to constituted authority had also remained constant as witnessed during the recent celebration of 25 unbroken years of democracy in Nigeria.

The CDS expressed belief that Nigerians, especially members of the armed forces, would continue to abide by the invaluable lessons of sacrifice as exemplified by prophet Ibrahim.

“Let me cease this opportunity to assure everyone that the military remains strong and committed to ensuring  restoration of peace and security in Nigeria and its environ.

“The core mandate of the military as enshrined in the constitution is to protect the nation from external and internal aggressions and this we have been diligently committed to despite all odds.

“Let me use this opportunity to once again reiterate that the armed forces will continue to adopt both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in our collective efforts to ensure  safety of every Nigerian.

“I, therefore, wish to call on all Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and love for one another.

“The labours of our past and present heroes must indeed not be in vain,” he said.

Musa also reiterated that the armed forces belong to all Nigerians and urged citizens to continue to support their efforts to guarantee the future of the country.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unflinching support aimed at ensuring that the armed forces remained the pride of the nation.

“May this auspicious occasion bring us joy, peace and blessings. Happy Eid-Kabir Celebration,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/CHOM/DOE

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Dianabasi Effiong

Navy fully equipped to provide hydrographical charts, data – Hydrographer

Hydrography

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Adm. Ayodeji Olugbode says the Nigerian Navy is fully equipped to produce up-to-date navigational charts and hydrographical data for the development of the nation’s blue economy.

Olugbode, who is also the Hydrographer of the Navy and Chief Executive Officer, National Hydrographic Agency, said this while briefing newsmen on the 2024 World Hydrography Day Celebration on Friday in Abuja.

He said the theme for the 2024 World Hydrography Day is “Hydrographic Information: Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability in Marine Activities.”

Olugbode said the Nigerian navy had since the acquisition of its OCEA-built vessel, OSV 190 ‘NNS LANA, delivered in 2021 and recent OSV 115, had been able to boost Nigeria’s hydrographical data.

He said that Nigeria no longer rely on foreign charts, adding that the navy had over the years, developed capability in house and could rapidly get data updated.

According to him, we don’t need to wait for anybody to validate our data anymore and we no longer need to send data abroad for validation.

Olugbode said the field of hydrography was crucial for safe navigation, marine resource management, and environmental protection.

“This year, we continue this journey by focusing on the significance of accurate and up-to-date hydrographic data in ensuring safe navigation, optimising operational efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices in the maritime industry.

“This theme resonates deeply with the core principles of hydrography. Safety is paramount for all maritime stakeholders, and it hinges on accurate hydrographic data.

“This data allows seafarers to navigate confidently, mitigating risks associated with navigation hazards and ensuring the safety of lives and property at sea.

“For example, our surveys have been crucial in planning and constructing new ports, such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, transforming our trade landscape and enhancing our capacity to handle increased cargo volumes,’’ he said.

The hydrographer said that the navy had also been working with key stakeholders to ensure that its products were properly utilised, to sustain the nation’s blue economy.

He said the 2024 celebration would commence on June 14 to June 19, featuring awareness lectures on hydrography to selected secondary schools in Abuja, Enugu, Lagos, and Port Harcourt.

The lectures, according to him, is aimed at inspiring young minds to consider careers in hydrography, ensuring we have the human capacity to provide quality hydrographic services to Nigeria’s policymakers and mariners alike.

He added that there would be a one-day seminar to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration on the critical role of hydrographic data in promoting maritime safety and sustainable practices.

“Additionally, we will introduce the Catalogue of Nigerian Charts, enhancing accessibility to maritime resources, cataloging existing charts, and detailing future productions.

“This ensures that the maritime community has updated information for timely and effective decision-making.

“The activities lined up for the 2024 World Hydrography Day celebration aim to create awareness and elicit the right response for the sustainable management of hydrographic information.

“These efforts will harness the full potential of hydrographic data for the benefit of Nigeria’s Blue Economy, supporting maritime safety and fostering economic development,’’ he added.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/EBI/AMM

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Edited by Benson Iziama and Abiemwense Moru

Terrorists

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Troops of the Nigerian Army  on Thursday neutralised six terrorists, recovering a substantial cache of arms in a counter-terrorism operation at Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State.

A statement by the army posted on its official X Handle said the operation targeted identified terrorists hideouts in the Birnin Gwari general area.

“It is part of a special clearance mission aimed at restoring peace and security in the state.

“The troops conducted  thorough clearance across Maidaro, Ngade Alha, Dogon Dawa, Damari, Saulawa, Farin Ruwa, Maganda, Sabon Layi, and Kampanin Doka villages.

“The troops made initial contact with the terrorists in Saulawa, where two terrorists were immediately neutralised with recovery of a Baofeng Radio and a motorbike.

“The mission continued with further combat engagements in Farin Ruwa, where the troops neutralised additional four terrorists.

“The gallant troops also recovered a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), two AK-47 rifles, six AK-47 magazines, one FN rifle magazine, 22 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, 51 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and another motorbike.

“The successful clearance operation underscores the army’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring  safety and security of citizens in Kaduna State and other troubled spots,” it said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Military destroys 43 illegal refining sites, apprehends 32 oil thieves

Oil

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Defence Headquarters said troops of Operation Delta Safe have in the last one week, discovered and destroyed 43 illegal refining sites and apprehended 32 suspected oil thieves.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja.

Buba said that the feat was achieved in the Niger Delta region of the country.

He explained that troops had maintained momentum against the activities of crude oil theives and recovered large quantities of stolen products.

He also said the troops recovered 728,360 litres of stolen crude oil, 143,450 litres of illegally refined AGO, 1,100 litres of DPK and 18,750 litres of PMS.

He added that the troops also discovered and destroyed 29 dugout pits, 22 boats and 26 storage tanks, among others.

According to him, troops apprehended 32 suspected oil thefts and other violent extremists and recovered 13 weapons and 442 assorted ammunitions.

“Other items recovered include 66 cooking ovens, eight vehicles and 43 illegal refining sites among others.”

Buba said the troops also conducted raid operations and apprehended violent extremists/cultists in Uruan and Ovia North-East Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom and Edo as well as Onelga and Nembe Local Government Areas of Rivers and Bayelsa. (NAN)  (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru

Troops neutralise 197 terrorists, apprehend 310 in 1 week- DHQ

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Defence Headquarters says troops deployed in different parts of the country have in the last one week neutralised no fewer than 197 terrorists and apprehended 310 others across theatres of operation.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja.

Buba said the troops also rescued 251 kidnapped hostages and recovered 180 assorted weapons and 5,123 assorted ammunition within the week in different operations.

The breakdown, according to him, comprised two PKT guns, 73 AK47 rifles and 17 locally fabricated guns, 3,207 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 1,022 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 243 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo among others.

In the North East, Buba said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai, neutralised 83 terrorists, arrested 71 suspects and rescued 48 kidnappers hostages within the week.

He said the troops also recovered two PKT guns, 35 AK47 rifles, nine fabricated rifles, 10 dane guns, and 10 grenades amongst others.

In the North Central, he said the troops of Operation Safe Haven neutralized 11 insurgents, arrested 64 violent extremists and rescued 21 kidnapped hostages as well as several cache of arms.

According to him, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised six terrorists, arrested 20 violent extremists and rescued 36 kidnapped hostages.

“Troops recovered 2 AK47 rifles, 66 rounds of 7.62mm special and 6 cartridges amongst others,” he said.

In the North West, Buba said the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji neutralised 65 terrorists, arrested 80 terrorists and rescued 54 kidnapped hostages within the week under review.

He added that the troops recovered 29 AK47 rifles, 7 fabricated rifles, 4 dane guns and 991 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo among others.

He added that troops of Operation Whirl Punch neutralised 19 terrorists, arrested 18 suspects and rescued 23 kidnapped hostages as well as recovered three AK47 rifles and 119 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, among others.

Buba said the security situation in the zone, especially Zamfara required collaborative approach between the state government and the locals to be able to nip it in the bud.

He said the governor of the state had come out to describe Zamfara as the epicenter of kidnapping as also corroborated by the Commissioner of Police, he said had described kidnapping as a big industry in the state.

“The military is on the ground there and we are fighting. Ours is to fight and to kill the terrorists and to destroy them.

“In this month alone, even up to yesterday, we have lost nine personnel which is a testament that we are working tirelessly to bring peace, to secure the land and create a safe environment for the people.

“I will end this by saying that it is close to impossible to win this war without the support of the people because of the caliber of people involved in kidnapping in Zamfara,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
OYS/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

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