Category: Defence/Security

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)

OYS/OIF/IAA

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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)

OYS/AYO/IAA

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Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Isaac Aregbesola

Kidnapping

By Nefishetu Yakubu

Benin June 11, 2024(NAN) The Edo Commissioner of Police, Mr Funsho Adegboye has raised an alarm over the increasing involvement of local residents in cases of kidnapping in the state.

Adegboye said  this on Tuesday in Benin, while briefing newsmen on the command’s activities to combat crime in the state.

He noted that kidnapping by herdsmen have somewhat reduced, adding that more locals were now being arrested for kidnapping in the state.

He said: “From our recent experiences, from the victims we have liberated and debriefed, we have discovered that most of the kidnappers now, are not those we usually call herdsmen.

” The locals are getting seriously involved in kidnapping.

“Before, if you ask the victims of kidnapping, they will say ‘herdsmen’. The involvement of the so-called herdsmen is now very minimal.

“Somebody was arrested in Edo North, when he was brought here, their group leader and others came here and vouched for him.

“But, fortunately, investigation confirmed 100 percent that he kidnapped a woman and collected money. The people were ashamed for vouching for him.

“Also, of recent, this one happened around town here, a 23-year-old man kidnapped a five-year-old girl, kept her in his room for several days, collected N250,000 ransom from the parents, while the poor girl was in his room.

“We deployed all our technical arsenal and we were able to get him arrested. He confessed to the heinous crime and he has been charged to court. It was a pathetic situation,” he said.

The CP, however called on members of the public to be more vigilant, adding that with the security situation in the country, everybody was a suspect. (NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
NY/JI

Edited by Joe Idika

Project

By Oladapo Udom

Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja on Tuesday inaugurated a Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Project at Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area (LGA), Lagos State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the project was executed by Maj.-Gen. Collins Adetoba.

Lagbaja, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Usman, said that the project was targeted at enhancing children’s learning capacity.

NAN also reports that the project was renovated and remodelled two storey blocks of classrooms, toilet facilities and a constructed borehole with water reticulation at the Local Authority Nursery and Primary School in the locality.

Lagbaja noted that the special intervention civil-military cooperation project represented a major achievement in the Nigerian Army’s efforts to enhance the security and well-being of the people.

“I am pleased that the work was completed in good time, I have no doubt that the work is of high quality.

“This project will undoubtedly provide children with the foundation, passion and conducive environment to acquire knowledge, skills and values that will enable them to excel.

“I am certain that the project will significantly contribute to the educational needs of the indigenes of Ajeromi Ifelodun and indeed the entire Lagos State,” he said.

The COAS thanked the people of the state for their continuous support to the Nigerian Army and urged them to continue to be law-abiding citizens.

“Please, always provide useful information to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to enable us to provide the required safe and secured environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.

“The Nigerian Army will continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations in collaboration with other security agencies and well-meaning citizens to improve the security situation in the country,” Lagbaja said.

He noted that the conduct of non kinetic operations was paramount to the Nigerian Army in order to garner the necessary support from the citizens towards combating insecurity in the country.

“The Nigerian Army recognises that our nation’s security and progress depends on the synergy and cooperation of all stakeholders towards nation building.

“Our projects are, therefore, carefully conceptualised to elicit substantial interest from the people who are expected to take ownership for its management.

“These projects are equally executed to complement the existing services, amenities and infrastructure provided by government at all levels and well-meaning individuals and organisations,” he said.

The COAS said that the Nigerian Army had so far constructed and rehabilitated hospitals, schools and libraries as well as the provided computers and other information and communication technology facilities.

“Others are construction of community town halls, roads and sinking of boreholes among several others.

“I wish to state that these projects have impacted positively on the communities and contributed to our non-kinetic drives within the contemporary security environment,” he added.

He said that the COAS Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Project was designed to be executed by Nigerian Army senior officers who, through hard work and dedication to service, had risen to the enviable rank of major general.

“This initiative reflects my commitment to sound administration, which is one of the central pillars of my Command Philosophy.

“I will continue prioritising the welfare of troops and their families in order to enhance their performance in carrying out assigned tasks.

“Also, this aspect of my command philosophy is being extended to communities to encourage their support and trust in the Nigerian Army,” he said.

Lagbaja thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continuous strategic guidance, invaluable support and the confidence he had placed in the Nigerian Army. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OUU/DCO/AWA

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Olawunmi Ashafa

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)

OYS/DCO/AMM

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Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru

Attack

By Peter Okolie

Owerri, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Two policemen and a passer-by were shot dead early on Tuesday morning by some unidentified gunmen at a police checkpoint at Akabo, near Owerri, Imo.

An eyewitness told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the gunmen stormed the checkpoint, located along Okigwe Road in Ikeduru Local Government Area, in three vehicles at about 6.30 a.m.

“They came in three vehicles to the checkpoint and suddenly opened fire, killing two policemen on the spot.

“On hearing the sporadic gunshots, I quickly scampered for safety for my dear life,” said the source.

The source, who had stepped out to buy bread for the children’s breakfast, further said a stray bullet from the sporadic shots fired by the hoodlums hit and killed a male passer-by.

However, the source added that other police officers fired back, forcing the attackers to retreat.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Imo Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, said the state Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr Aboki Danjuma, had ordered a manhunt for the gunmen.

“The CP has deployed the command’s Special Tactical Squad and equipped them with available operational resources and intelligence to go all out in synergy with other security agencies and clamp down on the hoodlums responsible for the unprovoked and unwarranted attack and killings.

“The operatives fought gallantly but unfortunately, two personnel and a civilian were fatally hit,” he said.

Okoye said the CP and some operatives of the command later visited the crime scene for assessment.

“As we speak, intense operation is ongoing in the area for possible apprehension and prosecution of the fleeing hoodlums responsible for the senseless act of violence.

“More so, the CP has set up a high-powered investigation team and tasked them to carry out a comprehensive investigation to unravel perpetrators of the attack,” he added.

He said the bodies of the affected officers and the civilian had been recovered and deposited in a mortuary for preservation.

The command’s spokesman commiserated with families of the dead and assured that the command would leave no stone unturned to ensure the hoodlums were arrested and prosecuted. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

OPC/CHOM/MAS

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Moses Solanke

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)

OYS/DCO/AMM

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Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru