Author: Sumaila Ogbaje

NAF airstrikes destroy several top terrorist leaders’ camps in N/W

Airstrikes
By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Defence Headquarters says the Air Components of the crisis operations have in the last one week, destroyed several terrorist camps operated by notorious terrorist commanders, Bello Turji’s and Halilu in Zamfara and Katsina State.

The Directorof  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 camps, which were newly discovered were acquired through Intelligence Surveillance and Recognisance (ISR), adding that they were targeted and engaged with rockets and cannons.

He said the feedback had revealed that several of the terrorists, including some of the commanders were indeed neutralised as a result of the air strikes.

“But at this time we do not have report of the death of Bello Turji and Halilu,” he said.

Buba said that similar air interdiction was conducted June 8, overhead a terrorists’ enclaves in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State following confirmatory ISR.

According to him, Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were eliminated and their structures destroyed.

He added that on June 6, the air component of Operation Whirl Punch conducted air interdiction on a senior terrorist commander enclave at Tsaunin Doka in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

According to him, battle damage assessment and feedback from locals revealed that several terrorists with high profile commanders were eliminated and their logistics destroyed.

“Similarly, on the same day, confirmatory ISR indicated terrorist activities in a terrorists’ camp within Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger killing several terrorists,” he added.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

IPOB

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Defence Headquarters has said that troops of Operation UDO KA have raided several training camps of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the South East, and apprehended 25 suspects.

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 the raid operations were carried out in the last one week following the killing of five soldiers by the group on May 30, around Aba, in Abia.

He said the operations led to the destruction of several camps and killing of 13 terrorists who had been terrorising the zone from their hideouts.

“Additionally, troops arrested violent extremists/IPOB/ESN members in Isiala Mbano and Ohaji/Egbema LGAs of Imo State.

“Furthermore, troops rescued kidnapped hostages in Anambra-West Local Government Area of Anambra State.

“Troops also conducted counter/anti kidnapping operations in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State.

“Overall, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralised 13 terrorists, arrested 25 violent extremists and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages and recovered one AK47 rifle and four dane guns, among others.

“All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action,” he said.

Buba called on all citizens to support the military in its efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

NSCDC’s Defenders win maiden CDS basketball championship

Championship

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) men’s Basketball Club, the Defenders, on Wednesday, emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Chief of Defence Staff Democracy Day Basketball Championship in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  reports that NSCDC team defeated  Hotcoal Basketball  Club 66-47 in the final game  at the  Old parade ground court.

The championship, which started on Sunday, had a total of 14 teams comprising 10 male and four female teams.

While the Hotcoal team won silver medal, Maktown Flyers won bronze medal in the third place for male category.

In the female category, Kada Angels Basketball Team of Kaduna won the gold medal by beating Gilali Team, while the Nasarawa State University female team won bronze.

NAN recalls that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, during the opening ceremony on Sunday, said the event marked an important milestone in celebrating the spirit of athleticism and camaraderie within the armed forces, security services and civil organisations.

Musa said that the championship would also showcase vibrant youth from 10 male and four female teams while featuring 40 veteran basketballers from across the country.

He said the objective was to promote Civil-Military cooperation and Inter Agency collaboration, and also aimed at engaging the Nigerian Youth positively in furtherance to military’s non-kinetic approach to improving security throughout the country.

“By organising the competition, it is my hope that Basketballers from the military, paramilitary and the civil society, including our veterans, will continue to maintain a high level of mental alertness and physical fitness,” he had stated.

Speaking on the performance of the NSCDC Team on Wednesday, the Commandant-General, Dr Ahmed Audi, expressed delight that the service emerged victorious.

Audi said the victory of the team was a product of investment that the corps had made in sports, adding that the outstanding performance of his team was the dividend of such investment.

He congratulated the members of the team and commended the defence chief for Organising the tournament.

“So, congratulations to members of the team and to the corps.

“It is a day of joy for us,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Security

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa has assured Nigerians of victory against enemies of the state.

Musa stated this on Wednesday in a goodwill message by the Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on the occasion of the 2024 Democracy Day celebration.

He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment and loyalty of the Nigeria Armed Forces to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the President, Commander-in-Chief.

According to him, the armed forces remain dedicated to supporting and strengthening democracy for the benefit of all Nigerians, and will continue to collaborate with national and sub-national institutions to entrench constitutional governance.

The CDS acknowledged sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in various theatres of operation across the country as well as their commitment to the unity and growth of Nigeria.

He urges personnel to uphold the tenets of democracy, safeguard citizens’ rights, and ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all.

Musa also appealed to all Nigerians to remain positive toward the challenges facing the country,  and to support the military in the fight against all acts of terrorism and criminality.

According to him, victory is insight and wishes President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians a happy and peaceful Democracy Day celebration. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Rabiu Sani-Ali

Illicit arms control:  Centre seeks army’s support

Arms

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The  National Centre for Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has solicited the support of the Nigerian Army in tackling the menace of illicit arms proliferation in the country.

The National Coordinator of the centre, retired DIG Johnson Kokumo, made the call when he led his management team on courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Kokumo also called on the Nigerian army to help the centre in apprehending the criminals that had been parading themselves and usurping the functions of NCCSALW in different parts of the country.

He said that a leader of one of such illegal bodies known as NatCom had been apprehended and remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre for undertaking illegal activities.

He also called on the army high command to make available quality personnel to assist in ensuring that key positions at the centre were adequately manned.

“We need to collaborate on our efforts with the arms bearing agencies to  fulfill the mandate of the centre.

“We need the support of the army, particularly in tackling activities of some illegal outfits claiming to be fighting proliferation of illicit arms in the country.

“The centre has been privileged to have some competent army officers serving in different capacities and we are requesting for more of such hands,” he said.

Kokumo appreciated the Nigerian army for making its facilities available for the centre to serve as its storage facilities across the country, adding that the army had assisted NCCSALW to be effective since its establishment.

Responding, the Chief of Army Staff commended the centre for its efforts in combating the menace of illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country.

Lagbaja assured the centre of army’s commitment to partnering and supporting their efforts towards achieving the objective of ridding the nation of illicit arms, adding that illicit arms were major drivers of violent extremism.

He promised to provide the needed support to the centre and ensure that army formations were available for NCCSALW for its effective functioning.

According to him, army will continue to put in place measures to ensure that weapons in possession of the army personnel don’t get into wrong hands.

The COAS said that the Nigerian army only recognised NCCSALW as the only legal body charged with such responsibility.

He added that army troops had been directed to dismantle all illegal checkpoint set up by the illegal bodies wherever they exist. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Isaac Aregbesola

CAS inaugurates sewage treatment plant in Abuja NAF Valley

Sewage

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja. June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, on Tuesday inaugurated six sewage treatment plants, lift stations and sewer infrastructure at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Valley Estate, Asokoro in Abuja.

An indigenous firm, Biotech Solutions Limited, partnered with the NAF to build state-of-the-art sewage treatment plants, lift stations and sewer infrastructures for the NAF estate.

Abubakar, at the inauguration, said the estate was conceived from inception to have a central sewage systems which provides residents with clean and healthy living conditions devoid of the health hazards posed by poorly handled sewage products.

He said that NAF had invested heavily in the sewage project to ensure seamless evacuation and treatment of sewage products within the estate.

The CAS urged residents to ensure that non-biodegradable materials were not disposed through the system, which would ensure the best value for the huge resources invested in the project.

“It is, therefore, necessary that we sensitise our households in this regard.

“Additionally, I must appeal to the residents to be very vigilant to ensure that the pipes and other components of the system are not vandalised,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Aanu Talabi, Chief Executive Officer, Biotech Solutions Limited, said the completion of the project reflected their steadfast commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the residents of the estate development and contributing positively to the nation as a whole.

Talabi said the sewage treatment plants, and lift stations were not merely infrastructural addition but pivotal elements in the journey towards a sustainable and resilient future.

He said the inauguration of the new facilities marked a pivotal advancement in the pursuit of a circular economy.

According to him, the commissioning of these facilities symbolises a significant step towards realizing a circular economy where waste is not merely disposed of but transformed into valuable resources.

“This approach will not only help in conserving our precious resources thereby reducing the demand for fresh water, promoting sustainable water management practices, while also mitigating the impacts of climate change.

“These sewage treatment plants and lift stations are not merely infrastructural additions,  they are pivotal elements in our journey towards a sustainable and resilient future.

“By effectively managing and treating wastewater, these plants will significantly reduce health risks associated with untreated sewage.

“This will lead to a healthier environment, thereby improving the overall well-being of the residents,” he said.

Talabi said the project would also ensure that the groundwater was unpolluted, adding that proper sewage treatment was crucial in protecting natural water bodies from contamination.

According to him, efficient management of wastewater will support the estate’s growth by attracting more prestigious residents and businesses, fostering a vibrant community and will stimulate local economies and create job opportunities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Isaac Aregbesola

COAS orders immediate investigation into incident at Command School

Investigation

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has ordered immediate investigation into the alleged neutralisation of a civilian staff  by some private soldiers in Command Secondary School, Iyana Ipaja.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said that the directive was in response to the concerns raised by the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) regarding the treatment of civilian workers at the school.

He said the COAS, in his unwavering commitment to upholding the rights of all personnel, including the civilian staff, had directed the Provost Marshal (Army) to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the unfortunate incident.

He also said that the investigation would comprehensively address all allegations raised by the ASCSN, with a focus on ensuring accountability and justice for all parties involved.

According to him, the Nigerian army recognises the vital role that civilian staffs play in supporting its operations and day to day administration.

“The NA is therefore dedicated to fostering a positive and respectful working environment for all personnel.

“While acknowledging that misunderstandings or miscommunication may occur, the ongoing investigation aims to provide clarity and implement necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“The army is committed to upholding the rule of law and respect for the rights of all its employees, including the fundamental rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining.

“Currently, the Nigerian Army is actively engaging with the Ministry of Defence and the ASCSN to address any outstanding issues and promote a cordial working relationship and industrial harmony.

“The army strongly believes that open communication and collaboration are key to resolving challenges, and is fully committed to maintaining these principles.”

Nwachukwu further said that the Nigerian Army had urged all parties to refrain from making premature judgments or spreading misinformation as the investigation progresses.

According to him, trust in the process is essential, and the army is confident that the investigation will provide a clear and accurate understanding of the situation to facilitate appropriate and fair actions.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all stakeholders, as we diligently work to address these concerns.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru

Welfare: CAS rewards 9 AWOs with Hilux vehicles

Welfare

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, on Tuesday rewarded nine Air Warrant Officers (AWOs) for their hard work and dedication to the service of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the officers were presented with JMC pickup Vehicles by the Air Staff Boss.

Abubakar, while presenting the vehicles said that he believed that human resources were the most vital inputs in any organisation.

He said this was necessary because they direct the use of available resources in pursuit of set organisational goals.

He said it was in recognition of that fact that one of the key enabler to his Command Philosophy was ”Maintaining a Highly Motivated Force by Enhancing Welfare and Infrastructural Renewal”.

”It is in fulfilling this key enabler that we are gathered here today on the auspicious occasion of the presentation of vehicles to our deserving AWOs, who remain huge assets to the NAF.

”Our AWOs are a selected breed of distinguished SNCOs on whom the service places the onerous task of maintaining regimentation and discipline as well as upholding military ethics and traditions among airmen/airwomen across the NAF.

”The selfless service and exemplary lifestyle of these distinguished gentlemen who also serve as mentors to their subordinates remain quintessential to the efficiency and effectiveness of the NAF.

”It is in recognition of this gallant service that we are gathered here today to honour these deserving gentlemen who have been very instrumental to our successes as a service,” he said.

The CAS commended the AWOs for their untiring efforts towards ensuring that the NAF got the desired support from their subordinates, which, according to him, had really enhanced the capacity of NAF to meet its constitutional mandate.

He said the presentation of the vehicles was a testament to the commitment of the NAF to motivate its personnel.

He implored the AWOs not to rest on their oars in rendering any support required of them by the NAF, assuring them that his leadership would continue to prioritise their welfare and that of their subjects.

”I firmly believe that the effectiveness of a fighting force is determined by the morale of its troops.

”To this end, I will request the AWOs to always communicate the yearnings of their subordinates to appropriate superior authority for use by HQ NAF in crafting impactful policies,” he added.

NAN also reports that the CAS inaugurated a recreational garden and park as well as six state-of-art sewage treatment plants, lift stations and sewer infrastructure at the NAF base and valley estate, Asokoro.

He said the projects were executed with sole motive of enhancing the welfare of personnel and their families in line with his desire to maintain a highly motivated force.

He added that it was in a bid to provide personnel with standard infrastructural facilities that the NAF valley estate was conceived from inception to have central sewage systems.

This, according to him, is with the aim of providing residents with clean and healthy living conditions devoid of the health hazards posed by poorly handled sewage products.

”To this end, the NAF invested heavily in the central sewage project in this estate which has today become a model facility,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries of the vehicle, AWO Pere Menone, said the presentation of the vehicles marked a historic moment for them in their career as military men.

Menone appreciated the CAS for the recognition and the motivation, adding that the event had given them hope that there was reward for diligence and hard work.

He urged the younger personnel to imbibe the spirit of hard work, dedication, diligence and loyalty to be able to reach the peak of their career. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru