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  • Anele assumes Command as first female Army spokesperson

    Anele assumes Command as first female Army spokesperson

    • Public relations directorate upgraded with cutting-edge tools, says Nwachukwu

    Lt.-Col. Onyechi Anele yesterday took over Command of the Directorate of Army Public Relations as the first female officer to hold the position in the Nigerian Army.

    This comes as the Directorate of Army Public Relations (APR) has been retooled with cutting-edge multimedia equipment to respond swiftly and professionally to operational and non-operational media engagements.

    Anele, whose appointment is in acting capacity, took over from the erstwhile Director, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been posted to the Nigerian Heritage and Future Centre, Giri Abuja.

    In her remarks, Anele said she recognised the enormous responsibilities that come with the office, as well as the expectations and the historic significance of her appointment.

    She promised to uphold professionalism as the first female officer to be entrusted with such strategic role as army spokesperson in the history of the Nigerian army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    She thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for finding her worthy of the appointment.

    ”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven,” she said.

    Anele commended her immediate predecessor, Nwachukwu, for his passion, resilience, and professionalism, adding that he had laid a formidable foundation and transformed the directorate to an enviable state.

    According to her, Nwachukwu’s contributions to enhancing the image and strategic communication of the Nigerian army over the years are remarkable.

    She urged the media to continue to support the army as partners in progress, and commended the defence correspondents for their professionalism in reporting military activities.

    The new spokesperson also encouraged the media to continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in their engagements for the good of the nation.

    ”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian army.

    ”I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.

    ”As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and pro-activeness.

    ”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation,” she said.

    Read Also: Army uncovers 11 illegal bunkering sites in four states

    Earlier, the outgone spokesman, thanked the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, for the privilege to serve and as well as their trust, guidance, and unflinching support.

    Nwachukwu said the COAS’ vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian army inspired them to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of the army.

    He also appreciated members of the press who had over the years, been relentlessly and untiringly weathering the storm with the army in its effort at eradicating security challenges in troubled parts of the country.

    ”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.

    ”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place.

    ”Take the directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu said the Directorate of Army Public Relations (APR) has been retooled with cutting-edge multimedia equipment to respond swiftly and professionally to operational and non-operational media engagements.

    Nwachukwu, who is the immediate past Director APR, spoke while handing over to the newly appointed acting director, APR, Lt.-Col. Anele.

    He noted that the era of rapidly evolving digital media, the proliferation of information channels, and the demand for timely and strategic communication had created significant expectations.

    “To remain relevant and effective, I had to modernise, adapt, and lead the media battle from the front.

    “Today, I can confidently say that I did not merely react to these challenges, but confronted them head-on—with innovation, vision, and purpose,” he said.

    Nwachukwu said one of the major milestones under his leadership was the acquisition of modern multimedia equipment, “which now enables the directorate to respond swiftly and professionally to media tasks.

    “We procured modern cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems, and digital communication tools that are essential for operating in the fast-paced global media environment,” he stated.

    He also facilitated both local and international training programmes for officers and soldiers, exposing them to global best practices in strategic communication, crisis messaging, digital warfare, and media analytics.

    “These initiatives have undoubtedly transformed the way we tell the Nigerian Army’s story, credibly and authoritatively,” he added.

    Nwachukwu further disclosed the establishment of a fully functional Strategic Communications Centre, which he described as a hub for coordinated messaging across formations and units.

    He also highlighted the launch of the Nigerian Army’s first online television channel, “Nigerian Army Info TV”, housed in a state-of-the-art studio at Army Headquarters.

    “This platform has significantly enhanced the Army’s media reach, engagement, and public perception. The voice of the Nigerian Army now resonates louder and clearer, both at home and abroad,” he said.

    Nwachukwu also noted efforts to strengthen relationships with both traditional and digital media stakeholders, fostering greater understanding and amplifying the stories of bravery and professionalism of Nigerian troops.

  • Army restores security on abandoned Katsina highway

    Army restores security on abandoned Katsina highway

    The Army has restored security along the Sheme-Kankara road, a 34-kilometre stretch once feared for its insecurity and known as a key exit route between Katsina and Zamfara States.

    A team of journalists conducted an on-the-ground tour of the route and confirmed the deployment of army personnel, police and allied security agencies along strategic points of the road.

    The Nation correspondent, who was part of the tour, observed that military outposts were visibly mounted at strategic locations on the road, signalling renewed government presence and efforts to reclaim the road from criminal elements.

    The Sheme-Kankara road, which connected several rural communities such as Ruwagodia and Sheme, had long been deserted by motorists due to persistent security threats. 

    Despite the improved situation, correspondents observed that the road witnesses low patronage and remains largely abandoned, raising concerns among residents and local authorities.

    Brigadier General Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade in Katsina, confirmed that intensified military activities have led to significant improvements in safety along the route. 

    Read Also: Army uncovers 11 illegal bunkering sites in four states

    He said: ”Motorists and traders should begin using the road more frequently to boost commercial activities and support ongoing stabilization efforts. 

    “The road is now safe and our men are fully on the ground. We encourage citizens to make use of it to restore its economic value.”

    Residents, who spoke to the reporters,also appealed to the state and federal governments,for sustained security operations and increased community engagement to rebuild trust and confidence in the route.

    They also called for urgent repair of the failed portions of the road to make it motorable..

  • Army uncovers 11 new illegal bunkering facilities in four states

    Army uncovers 11 new illegal bunkering facilities in four states

    The Nigerian Army has uncovered 11 new bunkering facilities and made some seizures during a six-day operation conducted in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers.

    Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesman for the Nigerian Army 6 Division, Port Harcourt, made this known in a statement on Monday in Port Harcourt.

    He said that seven suspects were arrested during the operations.

    ”Troops seized 13,600 litres of stolen crude oil, 4,890 litres of adulterated diesel, and 37,700 litres of various other unspecified petroleum products during the raids.

    ”Soldiers in Rivers raided the Imo River area, where they discovered six illegal refineries and recovered about 11,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

    “Troops deactivated 41 drum pots, 18 drum receivers, and 540 sack bags filled with over 11,000 litres of stolen products.

    Read Also: Army intercepts illicit substance in Ogun

    “They also thwarted attempts by oil thieves to reconstruct other illegal refining sites in the Imo River area,” he stated.

    In a separate operation in Ahoada West, Danjuma said that soldiers intercepted two Toyota Camry vehicles transporting over 1,300 litres of illegally refined diesel.

    “Furthermore, at Krakrama Wellhead 12 in Bille, Degema, seven suspects were arrested while attempting to vandalise the facility.

    “Troops, after combing the area, recovered three wooden boats laden with over 1,500 litres of stolen crude,” Dunjuma added.

    In Delta, he reported the interception of 25,200 litres of an unspecified petroleum product and 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil from two tankers, a truck, and a bus on the Koko-Obitigbo Road.

    During further operations, the army spokesman noted the discovery of 3,350 litres of adulterated diesel stored in 100 cellophane bags at Oton-Urakpa, Sapele.

    Other items discovered included three empty drums, two ovens, a metallic storage tank, as well as hoses and pipes believed to be used in siphoning products from pipelines.

    “In Bayelsa, troops dismantled four illegal refining sites and recovered about 2,100 litres of stolen crude oil and an additional 1,500 litres of stolen products Biseni and Okordia communities in Yenagoa.

    “In Akwa Ibom, soldiers intercepted 240 litres of illegally refined diesel stored in eight jerrycans during an operation along the Okobo-Uyo Road,” he remarked.

    Danjuma concluded by stating that the suspects have been handed over to the appropriate security agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution.

    (NAN)

  • Army raises concern over low enlistment of southeast youths, urges greater participation

    Army raises concern over low enlistment of southeast youths, urges greater participation

    The Nigerian Army has expressed concern over the low turnout of youths from the Southeast in its ongoing 2025 recruitment exercise, urging a change in attitude to reverse the trend.

    While states like Kaduna have already recorded over 3,000 applications, Enugu State is reportedly lagging behind with barely 100 applicants. 

    The Army noted that similar poor responses are being observed across other Southeastern states.

    The call for increased participation was made during an enlightenment town hall meeting in Enugu with local government chairmen, traditional rulers, town union presidents-general, and other community leaders.

    Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, who leads the 2025 Army Recruitment Enlightenment Team, lamented the situation, saying: “Our people are losing what rightly belongs to them. Each year, whenever a slot is allocated to our region, the number of applicants is usually very low.”

    He urged Southeast youths to seize the opportunity by applying in large numbers to ensure the region fully benefits from its allotted recruitment slots.

    “Take for example, Enugu State was given about 200 slots, but the people who made it were never up to 100 due to poor application. This has also become a recurring decimal in other states in the Southeast.

    “Today’s statistics on the number of applicants show that Kaduna has about 3,000 applicants, while Enugu is still battling with about a hundred; and by the time we will be through with screening, you will not have enough to recruit from the state.”

    Read Also: Army intercepts illicit substance in Ogun

    He refuted the allegation that people of Southeast origin were being killed in their numbers in the army because they were the first to be sent to the battle fronts. 

    Ekeator added that the region was also holding strategic positions in the army presently.

    “There are a lot of falsehoods out there stating that the Igbo are being killed because they are the first to be sent to the battlefield. These things are not true. After all, we that are here have risen high in the army and we are telling you that they are lies. Today in the Nigerian Army, our brother is one of the top commanders in charge of equipment. His name is Chibueze Ogbuabor,” he said.

    The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, regretted that the problem had persisted despite the collective efforts to reverse the trend and called for a review of modes of advertising the opportunities and the need to provide more details about the benefits of serving in the Army.

    “While seated here, I was just trying to conduct a very quick research and it appears this same problem is happening worldwide and militaries across the world are deploying more cutting-edge strategies for recruitment because we are talking about the new generation that you communicate in a different way from the past,” he stated.

    He reiterated Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to ensuring that the state filled its quota, describing the military as a noble and highly respected profession across the world.

    On his part, the chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria(ALGON), Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, pledged even stronger cooperation of the Local Government Council, but called on the military high command to equally address any concerns of the people to make the service more appealing to the youths.

    The State Coordinator, Presidents-General of Enugu State Town Unions, Hon. Arinze Ogbodo; former Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu and the traditional ruler of Nomeh Unataeze, Lieutenant Colonel Israel Mbah (rtd.), called on the youths to enlist in the Army, but stressed the need for more enlightenment.  

    “I was a military man before. I survived every war. I did mine and today I am a traditional ruler. So, I believe that our young people should join the force,” Lt. Col Mbah (Retd.) stated.

  • Army intercepts illicit substance in Ogun

    Army intercepts illicit substance in Ogun

    Troops of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army have intercepted 320 wraps of illicit substance suspected to be Marijuana in Ogun State.

    The substance was seized around Alamutu in Odeda Local Government Area while the troops were on routine patrol, a statement by the spokesman for the 81 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, said Friday morning.

    According to the statement, the wraps were seized from a suspected transnational drug syndicate on April 2, following actionable intelligence.

    It said no suspect was arrested as they abandoned the two motorcycles they were using to convey the substance and fled into nearby bush upon sighting the soldiers.

    Read Also: Army chief to troops: ambush, raid bandits in their hideouts

    “The interception which was made on 2 April 2025 is part of the Division’s efforts at supporting the relevant security agency in the eradication of illicit drugs in our AOR (Area of Responsibility) as encapsulated in the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy.

    “The recovered items have been handed over to the 35 Artillery Brigade Military Police for subsequent handover to National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Ogun State Command, for further investigation.

    “The General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa has commended the troops for their effort and charged them to upscale the crackdown against criminals, in order to rid the society of crimes and provide a conducive environment for law abiding citizens to carry out their daily activities without fear. 

    “He warned would-be criminals to desist from such illegitimate means of livelihood or be ready to face the full wrath of the law,” it added.

  • Let honesty, fairness, empathy define engagements with civil populace, Army tells troops

    Let honesty, fairness, empathy define engagements with civil populace, Army tells troops

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and 3 div of the Nigerian Army have been told to imbibe honesty, fairness, empathy in their engagements with the civil populace.  

    The General Officer Commanding 3 Div and commander Operation Safe Haven Major General Folusho Oyinlola told the troops this during the Sallah luncheon for the troops in Jos .

    The GOC said: “I am deeply honoured to stand before you today on this auspicious occasion of our Eid-el-Fitr Luncheon, held in celebration and recognition of our Muslim faithful and their families. 

    “This is a moment of immense joy, reflection, and gratitude as we mark the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. It is an opportunity for us to come together as one family, united by our shared commitment to peace, security, and harmony in our dear nation.

    “The significance of Eid-el-Fitr transcends the individual celebration of personal spiritual accomplishments. It is a time to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, to forgive and seek forgiveness and to renew our commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and peaceful coexistence in our society. As we rejoice in this festive moment, let us remember those who are less privileged, the families who have lost loved ones, and the individuals displaced due to conflicts and violence. Our collective duty is to work tirelessly to create a society where peace, security, and prosperity reign supreme.

    “I must take this moment to commend the gallant officers, soldiers and personnel of 3 Division and Operation Safe Haven as well as all security agencies in the Plateau for their unwavering dedication to duty. Your sacrifices in ensuring the safety and security of our citizens, often at great personal risk, do not go unnoticed. 

    “You have displayed courage, resilience, and professionalism in carrying out your responsibilities and for that, I extend my deepest gratitude.  I also wish to acknowledge the families of our troops who have continued to provide unwavering support and encouragement to their loved ones in service. Your prayers, patience, and sacrifices play an integral role in the success of our operations. On this special day, we celebrate you as well and appreciate your invaluable contributions to the peace and security of our nation.

    ‘The values of honesty, fairness, and empathy should define our engagements with the civil populace. Let us always remember that our ultimate goal is to protect lives, uphold justice, and promote an environment where all citizens can thrive in peace and security.

    Read Also: Sudan Army close to taking control of Presidential Palace

    “In the course of this celebration, let us take a moment to honour those who are not with us today  our colleagues who have paid the supreme price in the line of duty. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten and their legacy lives on.  Let us therefore keep their families in our prayers and extend our support to them not just during this season but always.  We must all collectively ensure that the sacrifices of our departed colleagues will never be in vain. I charge you all to remain disciplined, loyal, vigilant and professional in your conduct this season and always.

    “As we partake in this luncheon, let it serve as a reminder that brighter days are ahead. The challenges we face, be it insurgency, banditry, communal clashes, or other security threats, are surmountable when we stand together in unity and determination.

    The Chief of Army Staff, who was represented by the Commander Armour Corps, Maj Gen OC Ajunwa noted: “In keeping with the tenets of my Command Philosophy, I remain committed to strengthening the operational capacity, welfare and combat readiness of our troops. This underscores the vital role of discipline, professionalism and inter-agency collaboration, all of which are crucial in tackling the contemporary security challenges confronting our nation.

    “As we celebrate, we must remain mindful of our shared duty to uphold the peace, unity and sovereignty of our beloved country. Our commitment to these ideals reinforces the trust placed in us to safeguard our country’s future. This aligns with the strategic objectives of Mr President which prioritizes national security and sustainable development.”

  • Power minister condemns Army’s attack on EKEDC substation in Badagry

    Power minister condemns Army’s attack on EKEDC substation in Badagry

    Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has strongly condemned the recent attack, abduction, and brutalization of staff, as well as the destruction of facilities at the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry, Lagos State, by personnel of the Nigerian Army.

    The incident, which occurred on Friday, March 14, 2025, followed a temporary power outage and comes less than a week after a similar assault on Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) staff and infrastructure by Nigerian Air Force personnel.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu described the attack as unacceptable and a direct threat to Nigeria’s power stability and economic well-being.

    He called on the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to intervene and rein in security operatives, emphasising that such issues should be handled peacefully, especially in a democratic setting.

    The minister reiterated that electricity infrastructure is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and a crucial driver of national development.

    “Attacks on these facilities and staff on duty undermine the efforts of the Federal Government to ensure stable and reliable power supply to homes, businesses, and public institutions. The repeated targeting of power infrastructure and the personnel of distribution companies by uniformed personnel, who are expected to protect national assets, are deeply troubling and raises serious concerns about discipline and accountability within our armed forces.”

    The statement further noted that the Nigerian Army was emboldened to attack EKEDC facilities and staff because of the silence of the Federal Government on the earlier invasion of Ikeja Electric by the Air Force. 

     “The NSA has to wade into this matter in order to forestall further attacks”. 

    The Minister said the attack on EKEDC substation has resulted in significant damage, leading to power outages and disruptions in service to thousands of customers. 

    “This comes at a time when the government is working tirelessly to improve the efficiency and reliability of the power sector. Such actions are counterproductive and sabotage the collective progress we are striving to achieve”.  

    He called on the Nigerian Army to immediately investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. 

    Read Also: Power minister seeks U.S. collaboration with Africa to end energy poverty

    “The Ministry of Power also urges the military high command to take urgent steps to educate and sensitize its personnel on the importance of protecting critical national infrastructure. The repeated occurrence of such incidents suggests a systemic issue that must be addressed with the utmost urgency”.  

    Adelabu said the power ministry remains committed to working with all stakeholders to safeguard power infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to all Nigerians. 

    The Minister said though he recognises the sensitive role of the military in safeguarding the country and protecting its assets, the military should see the power sector as a partner in progress and not its enemy. 

    “We appeal to all Nigerians, including members of the armed forces, to recognize the importance of protecting our power infrastructure. These facilities are vital to our collective prosperity, and their destruction harms us all”.  

  • Army rescues 49 in Plateau, Kaduna

    Army rescues 49 in Plateau, Kaduna

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have rescued 49 kidnapped victims and recovered about N2 million cash from ransom in the hands of kidnappers between 24th January and 12th march 2025 in Plateau and Kaduna States.

    This was contained in a statement by the Media Information officer of OPSH Major Samson Zhakom in Jos. 

    Zhakom, who gave a summary of the 45 days of military exploits against the criminals said: “A total of 7 AK-47 rifles were recovered from criminals, 6 fabricated rifles recovered, 3 fabricated pistols, 222 different types of ammunition recovered. 

    Read Also: Reps demand Army’s report on Okuama killings, release of detained residents

    “Also, 49 persons rescued from kidnappers, 17 criminals including kidnappers and bandits were neutralised, 17 suspects arrested for (gunrunning, kidnapping, banditry, militia amongst others), while 151 cows, 64 sheep and 3 rams were recovered from cattle rustlers within the period under review.

    “The troops also recovered mobile phones, motorcycles from the criminals.

    “The troop vowed to rid the entire Joint Operations Area of non-state actors and crisis merchants destabilising the peace of law abiding citizens.” 

    The statement noted that all suspects along with recovered rifles, ammunition and other items are in custody for further action. 

  • Reps demand Army’s report on Okuama killings, release of detained residents

    Reps demand Army’s report on Okuama killings, release of detained residents

    The House of Representatives on Tuesday called on the Nigerian Army to immediately release its investigation report on the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama Community, Ughelli South, Delta State, on March 14, 2024.

    The House also urged the military to either release detained community members or charge them to court, while advocating for the reconstruction of homes destroyed in the aftermath of the incident.

    Moving the motion, Francis Waive (APC, Delta) recalled that the soldiers’ lifeless bodies were discovered in Okuama, leading to widespread destruction and mass arrests by the army.

    Waive lamented that despite assurances from the Chief of Defense Staff last year that the military knew the perpetrators, no arrests have been made, sending a troubling message about justice and accountability.

    Read Also: Reps: Seven oil firms to refund $37.4m to federation account before August

    He said several innocent indigenes of the community, including the President General of the community, Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Hon. Chief Belvis Adogo, Mr. Dennis Amlaka, Miss Owhemu Mabel, and Pa James Oghoroko, who died in custody, among others, were detained and have since been in detention. 

    He said, “This week marks the one-year anniversary of a tragic event, and the community members in the Army’s custody have not been taken to court or released on bail. 

    “The affected community requested that a judicial inquiry be made to look into the facts of the events, an option that was not considered. The Committee on Defense conducted an investigation into the matter, which the Army refused to participate

    “The Nigerian Army decided to conduct their own investigations, it is believed that by now, one year later, they should have had sufficient time to conclude investigations.”

  • Army holds joint training to boost security in Lagos, Ogun

    Army holds joint training to boost security in Lagos, Ogun

    To enhance security within the Lagos and Ogun states, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army (NA) on Tuesday commenced this year’s operations planning cadre for officers.

    Themed “Enhancing Operational Readiness through Effective Planning, Collaboration and Capacity Development”, the training, which was held at the Army Officers Mess, Marina, brought together security operatives from the military, police, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and other relevant stakeholders.

    Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Farouk Mijinyawa said the forum presented an opportunity for officers to develop improved strategies and facilitate interaction with various security personnel.

    “The Operations Planning Cadre is significant in that it affords the Nigerian Army a forum to brainstorm extensively and come up with better ways to project activities of the NA and to interface and rub minds with Officers within 81 Division AOR as well as representatives of sister services and other security agencies.

    Read Also: Army renames Ikeja Cantonment to honour Gen. Lagbaja

    “It is also an avenue to enhance operations planning values and competencies amongst participants for effective and optimal performance,” he said.

    According to the GOC, the training programme was structured to provide officers with the crucial skills needed to plan and lead effectively, as well as to foster better cooperation with other security organisations, particularly during combined operations.

    He emphasized that the inclusion of various security agencies in the training was intended to create a more authentic learning experience, reflecting the reality of joint operations in domestic security.

    Mijinyawa urged participants to actively contribute their insights and perspectives to ensure the cadre’s goals are met.

    Similarly, the Commander, Nigerian Army, Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Maj.-Gen. Baba Umaru Yahya noted the need for enhanced operational readiness in light of current security challenges.

    He emphasized that training, discipline, and commitment were crucial for successful operations.

    He said: “The discourse on operations has consistently remained in the front burner of most military engagements in the country. This has become our reality as our nation is currently facing a multitude of security challenges, which necessitates an increased involvement of various security agencies in combating non-state actors who pose threats to law-abiding citizens. “These involvements have also placed enormous demands on the Nigerian Armed Forces to step up its operations in support of civil authority.

    “I, therefore, wish to reiterate that training, discipline and commitment to duty are all part of essential components in achieving success in operations.”

    Noting the multidimensional and complex nature of security threats confronting the country, Yahya said the Army’s response has also been robust,    holistic, and dynamic with adequate support, improved inter-agency cooperation, and mission-specific training across all cadres.

    “However, the dynamic nature of threats which continues to evolve amplifies the need for training that is constantly adaptive and as such it is envisaged that this operations planning cadre would deliver the requisite training,” he said.