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  • UPDATED: Army renames Ikeja Cantonment after late COAS Lagbaja

    UPDATED: Army renames Ikeja Cantonment after late COAS Lagbaja

    The Nigerian Army has renamed the popular Ikeja Cantonment T.A. Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja in honour of the late Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

    The renaming ceremony on Friday followed impressive facility upgrades including an engraved picture of Lagbaja made with over 4,000 nails in front of the refurbished main gate to the cantonment; digital boards; remodelled accommodation for Commander 9 Brigade; newly built residence of Commander 70 Supply and Transport Command; renovated seven by Corporal Below and three by Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) quarters.

    The Nation reports that the event coincided with the posthumous 57th birthday of the late COAS and attracted military top shots including all serving members of Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Course 39, Lagbaja’s coursemates.

    Delivering a goodwill message at the ceremony, Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said naming the cantonment after Lagbaja was a testament of gratitude and recognition of his courage, service and patriotism.

    Read Also: Nigerian Army Resource Centre DG calls for stronger military-media collaboration

    He said: “This cantonment has not been a symbol of courage. It has been a symbol of discipline and fidelity. It has been home to thousands of brave men and women who have defended the sovereignty of our nation with their lives in the greatest moment of triumph, resilience, and sacrifice.

    “Therefore, renaming it after Lieutenant General Lagbaja is a fitting tribute to a leader, a gentleman, and an officer whose life embodies all of his values. A distinguished infantry officer who served in the Nigerian Army with dedication for over three decades; who played key roles in counter-insurgent operations, internal security, and peace-keeping missions.

    “By renaming this cantonment after him, we are sending a strong message to our Armed Forces and to future generations that Nigeria will always honour and celebrate our brave men and women in uniform, not just in times of conflict but in moments of peace. We must remind them that their sacrifice will not go unrecognised.”

    He commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the renaming of the cantonment, noting that his administration has by the gesture, demonstrated its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces.”

    COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said Lagbaja’s legal IRS had continued to positively impact the lives of soldiers and their families.

    Oluyede said the army considered Ikeja Cantonment most benefitting to immortalise Lagbaja because of the modest infrastructural developments he spearheaded as Commander 9Brigade, as well as major developmental projects he initiated in the cantonment as COAS.

    “Some of these include the extensive renovation of officers and soldiers accommodations, upgrade of the schools and medical centre facilities as well as restoration of the cantonment water treatment plant. 

    “He was also key to resolving the intractable challenge of poor electricity supply to the Cantonment. Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s impactful intervention undoubtedly brought comfort and joy to the cantonment community. 

    “It was therefore no surprise that the proposal to rename this cantonment after him was received with widespread jubilation and warm acceptance by the residents…” he said.

  • Synergy between Army, Amotekun corps enhances crime-fighting in Ondo – Commander

    Synergy between Army, Amotekun corps enhances crime-fighting in Ondo – Commander

    Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army (NA), Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi, attributed the successes in battling crime in Ondo State to actionable information provided by the Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps.

    Brigadier General Ifeanyi credited the existing synergy among security agencies in the state for this achievement.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Bishop Oke on re-election as PFN president

    He made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the Commander of the Ondo Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, in Akure. As the new Commander in Ondo State, Brigadier General Ifeanyi emphasized the importance of introducing himself and building strong working relationships.

    “From what I was told, the Army has been working in synergy, particularly at the local level, with your operatives. Most of your men are infused in all the local government areas. They have been passing actionable information,” he stated. “We want the already established synergy to continue and take it to the next level. We will cooperate and work with your people to curtail crime, especially kidnapping.”

    The Ondo Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed that the synergy between Amotekun and the Nigerian Army remains strong and successful. He expressed his desire for the collaboration to continue.

  • Army inaugurates renovated school block, borehole in Katsina community

    Army inaugurates renovated school block, borehole in Katsina community

    The Nigerian Army has inaugurated a fully renovated and furnished Pilot Primary School with newly constructed toilets and a solar-powered borehole in Danja Local Government Area of Katsina State.

    Speaking at the event, the projects sponsor, Major-General Mohamed Dahiru Danja, said the critical demand for improved learning environments in Katsina State with over 3,000 primary schools requiring urgent repairs, had placed significant burden on the state government.

    He said: ‘’This project was conceived in December 2024 and work commenced immediately. Initially, it involved the renovation and furnishing of the school as well as the construction of toilets. However, after considering the water scarcity challenges in the area and the importance of clean water for pupils, we included a solar-powered borehole in the project.”

    The renovation encompassed a complete re-roofing of the school, installation of new ceilings and the provision of 100 new desks and seats made from high-quality marine board.

    Additionally, 76 previously damaged seats were repaired while new staff furniture and dual-purpose writing boards were also installed in classrooms.

    To enhance hygiene standards, five new toilets were also constructed for both pupils and staff.

    Read Also: Army invites sentenced soldiers for documentation, as officers allege plot to short-change them

    The solar-powered borehole, which was a key component of the project, featured a 10,000-litre storage capacity supported by two 5,000-litre overhead GP tanks.

    The borehole operates independently of electricity, powered solely by four 250-amp solar panels.

    Addressing the headmaster and staff, Major General Danja demanded the non-commercialisation of the borehole.

    He said: “This facility is for the use of pupils and can be extended to the nearby community on designated days, but under no circumstances should money be collected for water. Any violation will attract serious sanctions.”

    A caretaker committee was appointed to oversee the borehole’s maintenance, including water pumping and security.

    The ceremony was attended by top dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Army and the General Officer Commanding the 8th Division.

    The project initiative was seen by members of the public as aligning with the Army’s commitment to supporting local communities and enhancing educational infrastructure as the project would significantly improve learning conditions for pupils at Pilot Primary School and serve as a model for similar interventions in other parts of the state.

  • Army commissions renovated school block, borehole in Danja

    Army commissions renovated school block, borehole in Danja

    The Nigerian Army has commissioned a fully renovated and furnished Pilot Primary School awith newly constructed toilets and a solar-powered borehole in Danja Local Government Area of Katsina State.  

    Speaking during the commissioning,the projects sponsor, Major General Mohamed Dahiru Danja, said the critical demand for improved learning environments in Katsina State with over 3,000 primary schools requiring urgent repairs, had placed significant burden on the State Government.  

    He said: ”This project was conceived in December 2024, and work commenced immediately.

    ”Initially, it involved the renovation and furnishing of the school, as well as the construction of toilets,however, after considering the water scarcity challenges in the area and the importance of clean water for pupils, we included a solar-powered borehole in the project.”  

    Investigation by The Nation revealed that the renovation encompassed a complete re-roofing of the school, installation of new ceilings and the provision of 100 new desks and seats made from high-quality marine board.

     Also, 76 previously damaged seats were repaired while new staff furniture and dual-purpose writing boards were also installed in all classrooms.  

    To enhance hygiene standards, five new toilets were also constructed for both pupils and staff. 

    The solar-powered borehole, which was a key component of the project, featured a 10,000-liter storage capacity supported by two 5,000-liter overhead GP tanks.

     The borehole operates independently of electricity, powered solely by four 250-amp solar panels.  

    While addressing the headmaster and staff, Major General Danja demanded the non- commercialisation of the borehole.

    Read Also: Group to Army chief: save us from Imo deadly landmines

    He said: “This facility is for the use of pupils and can be extended to the nearby community on designated days, but under no circumstances should money be collected for water. Any violation will attract serious sanctions.”  

    A caretaker committee was appointed to oversee the borehole’s maintenance, including water pumping and security.  

    The commissioning ceremony was attended by top dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Army and the General Officer Commanding the 8th Division.  

    The project initiative was seen by members of the public as aligning with the Army’s commitment to supporting local communities and enhancing educational infrastructure as the project would significantly improve learning conditions for pupils at Pilot Primary School and serve as a model for similar interventions in other parts of the state.

  • Navy commander visits Army, police bosses to strengthen collaboration, boost security

    Navy commander visits Army, police bosses to strengthen collaboration, boost security

    In a move to strengthen existing inter-agency cooperation and improve security in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Commander, Naval Unit Abuja, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, visited his colleagues at the Guards Brigade Asokoro and FCT Police Command, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, and CP Olatunji Disu, respectively.

    Commodore Oladipo who recently assumed duty as the head of the Naval Unit, assured that officers and men under his command were committed to improving security in a joint security environment.

    During his visit to the Commissioner of Police, Commodore Oladipo commiserated with him over the death of his son, praying for the repose of the soul of the young man.

    He also reiterated that the unit was ready to work with the police and other security agencies to improve security and defence in the FCT.

    At the Guards Brigade, Commodore Oladipo noted that there has been cordial relationship between both units, adding that personnel of both units always collaborated in the areas of security, regimentation and a host of other ceremonial tasks.

    He said the collaboration between both agencies has led to closer and better delivery of assigned tasks.

    He said that more would be achieved with better synergy, assuring of his readiness and dedication in that regard.

    Read Also: Guber poll: Igala Vanguard urges Tinubu to remove Navy commander Akalieze from Kogi

    Commodore Oladipo also appreciated the Commander Guards Brigade and his officers for the warm reception accorded him and members of his entourage.

    In his remarks, Brig.-Gen. Onasanya, recalled their days in the Nigerian Military School (NMS) and Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA), assuring the Navy boss of the brigade’s readiness and commitment towards effective synergy that would showcase FCT to the world.

    He expressed optimism that the new Naval Commander would succeed, considering his wide range of experience and knowledge, which will surely and effectively enable him to discharge his responsibilities, with both units working as a team to move the FCT and its environs forward in the area of security for all residents.

  • Army showcases WASA’s colourful cultural heritage in Katsina

    Army showcases WASA’s colourful cultural heritage in Katsina

    The 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army at the weekend showcased Nigeria’s colourful cultural heritage while hosting the 2024 End-of-Year West African Social Activities, WASA, at the parade ground of Natsinta Barracks in Katsina.

    The event attracted military personnel, heads of security agencies, government officials, traditional leaders, cultural dancers and displays from various ethnic groups and the general public to a celebration of Nigeria’s unity and cultural diversity.

    Katsina Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, who was represented by the Commissioner of Internal Security, Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa,,commended the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in restoring and maintaining peace in the state.

    He further reiterated the significance of the army’s commitment, the harmonious inter- security agencies relationship as well as the relationship with residents of Katsina.

    Commander of the 17 Brigade, Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, highlighted the significance of the event in fostering ”camaraderie among officers, soldiers, and the civilian population”

    He also commended the resilience and dedication of the brigade throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and national unity.

    The army boss also extended gratitude to the guests and highlighted the importance of the WASA tradition in fostering unity and cultural appreciation.

    17 brigade Chief of Staff Colonel YO Nwamdiscass, thanked everyone for honouring the invitation.

    The occasion was graced by the presence of the representatives of the emirs of Katsina and Daura, who served as the royal fathers of the day.

    Read Also: Army holds full military burial for mascot horse

    The WASA celebration featured a variety of activities that captivated the audience.

    Highlights of the occasion also included the inspection of traditional dishes, Yantauri traditional display, and the energetic Koroso cultural dance.

    National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members contributed to the festivities with their unique cultural presentations.

    Dances from various regions, including the South -East,North-East, North-West, South-West, and North-Central, were performed, showcasing the cultural diversity that defines Nigeria.

    The event was expected to served as a platform for strengthening the relationship between the military and the civilian population in Katsina State.

  • Don’t relocate Army barracks, community appeals to military authorities

    Don’t relocate Army barracks, community appeals to military authorities

    The Nigerian Army authorities have been urged to reconsider its decision on the relocation of its 148 Battalion from Ipoti-Ekiti.

    The residents, under the aegis of Ipoti Ekiti Patriotic Indigene in a statement said the decision, if not reversed, would hurt the economic growth of the community.

    The statement was jointly signed by Dr. (Hon.) Lai Oke, Mr. Adedayo Babajide and Barrister Gbenga Awoyomi.

    They said the decision on the relocation of Barack has left the people of Ipoti-Ekiti feeling marginalized.

    The statement said the Military Authorities had in a memo titled “Amendment to the Establishment Order of 148 BN (AHQ DAPP/65/220/267/DTG 191800A JUN23)”, dated January 13, 2025, communicated its decision to the community.

    The statement read in part: “It is important to highlight that Ipoti-Ekiti was officially selected as the permanent location for the 148 Battalion over a decade ago.

    “The Nigerian Army acquired an expansive tract of land for this purpose, compensating the original owners. Offices and residential buildings were erected, personnel were posted and the barracks became operational until last year, when military personnel were abruptly withdrawn without explanation.

    “While the community eagerly awaited the resumption of full operations, the sudden announcement of relocating the barracks to another town shocked us. The reasons provided for this relocation are unconvincing, especially considering the proximity of an existing military barracks in Akure to Ikere-Ekiti

    “We must emphasize that Ipoti-Ekiti has been repeatedly subjected to politically unfavourable decisions that have stifled its growth and development. For emphasis, in 2013, a government action affected age long peaceful coexistence and development of the town.

    “In 2022, when Ipoti-Ekiti was named the headquarters of Irede LCDA, an attempt to relocate the headquarters to another community was thwarted only by public outcry and protests.

    “We ask: What offence has Ipoti-Ekiti committed to deserve this continuous pattern of marginalization and neglect? Despite our unwavering support for the government, we find ourselves systematically denied opportunities for development while enduring repeated setbacks.

    “We call upon those in authority to abandon the growing trend of relocating public institutions and infrastructure to their hometowns at the expense of other communities.

    Read Also: Monarch hails Army over new military base in Ekiti

    “This practice breeds resentment, fuels animosity and threatens communal harmony. It must stop for the sake of fairness, unity and peaceful coexistence.

    “We appeal directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, and the National Assembly to intervene decisively to reverse this unjust relocation.

    “We passionately urge His Excellency, Governor Oyebanji, to act swiftly to halt this relocation and restore the barracks to Ipoti-Ekiti. Such action will correct a grave injustice and demonstrate that no community is too small to matter in the broader vision of national development.

    “We also appeal to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to reconsider this relocation in the spirit of equity, fairness and national unity. As a proud son of Ekiti, he holds a unique position to influence the establishment of new military installations that will benefit the entire state rather than sow division”

  • Army apprehends 15 over suspected oil theft in Niger Delta

    Army apprehends 15 over suspected oil theft in Niger Delta

    Troops of the Nigerian army have apprehended no fewer than 15 persons over suspected oil theft and illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta.

    Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, the Spokesman, Nigerian Army, 6 Division, Port Harcourt, said in a statement on Monday, that the operations were carried out in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers recently.

    Danjuma said that the army apprehended 15 persons, dismantled 32 artisanal refineries and seized 14 boats during operations.

    He further said that during the operations, conducted between Jan. 6 and 12, the troops confiscated no fewer than 60,000 litres of various petroleum products

    The spokesman said that the operations were part of a broader collaborative effort with other security agencies to combat oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

    Danjuma said that the raid commenced in Bille, Degema Local Government Area, Rivers, where soldiers dismantled seven illegal refining sites, confiscated 20,000 litres of crude oil, and destroyed two boats.

    “We also deactivated ten illegal refineries, several crude oil cooking pots, and receivers, and recovered about 19,000 litres of stolen petroleum products along the Imo River.

    “In Odagwa, Etche, our troops intercepted three boats carrying about 12,000 litres of stolen crude oil and arrested three suspects in the process.

    “Similar operations were carried out in Abiama, Asa, Obuzor, Okoloma, Ozaa, Ukwa, and Oyigbo” he added.

    He stated that the soldiers advanced to Nkisa in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers, where they confiscated 1,600 litres of crude oil and 1,200 litres adulterated diesel.

    Danjuma said that along Ndoni Road, the troops intercepted a Toyota van transporting an estimated 1,200 litres of stolen condensate.

    Read Also: Army fetes journalists in Katsina, pledges improved information verification, media access

    The spokesman said that in Buguma, Asari-Toru, Rivers, the troops dismantled two illegal refineries, seized 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil, and apprehended five suspects.

    “In Baberegbene, Southern Ijaw, Bayelsa, our soldiers dismantled an illegal artisanal refinery and intercepted a wooden boat carrying no fewer than 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil.

    “Similarly, an illegal refining site containing an unquantified quantity of stolen petroleum products was deactivated in Emago-Kugbo and Oluasiri communities in Nembe, Bayelsa.

    “The operations continued in Akwa Ibom and Delta, where troops maintained a strong presence and effectively denied economic saboteurs the liberty to operate,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Army fetes journalists in Katsina, pledges improved information verification, media access

    Army fetes journalists in Katsina, pledges improved information verification, media access

    The Nigerian Army on Sunday, hosted a luncheon for a cross-section of the media, members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Katsina State media personnel at the Officers Mess, 17 Brigade Headquarters.

    Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, spoke at the event, which also marked the upcoming Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. 

    He emphasised that the media luncheon was designed to create a relaxed environment for networking and fostering collaboration between the media and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    He highlighted the increasing importance of the media in shaping public opinion, influencing military operations, and rallying public support as the country navigates the information age.

    He said: “Embedding journalists in the planning and conduct of military operations would help greatly in checking negative reports on the activities of security agencies. 

    ‘’The luncheon serves as a platform for the military to engrave its friendship with the media and bridge the existing divide between them.”

    The Commander further challenged media practitioners to be patriotic in the performance of their duties and avoid reports that would be detrimental to national interest and security.

    Read Also:Major shakeup in Army as COAS appoints new PSOs, GOCs, others

    He also noted that the commemoration of the arm forces day marked a special place in both individually and collectively as an Army.

    According to him, moments like this reminds troops of the significance of loyalty, obedience and sacrifice as well as providing a unique opportunity for troops to reflect and readjust efforts towards justifying the confidence reposed in them by Nigerians.

    He further expressed his appreciation for the immense sacrifice of the media in Operation Fansan Yamma and other ongoing operations across the country. 

    He also paid special tributes to colleagues who have paid the supreme price in the defence of their fatherland while noting that the Brigade under his watch will continue to provide for the welfare and comfort of their families.

  • Army Secondary Class of ‘88 celebrates friendship

    Army Secondary Class of ‘88 celebrates friendship

    In a heartwarming gathering, former students of Government Army Day Secondary School (GADSS), Bida, Niger State, met recently in Abuja to enjoy fond memories after 36 years of graduation.

    Over three joyful days, laughter and heartfelt connections filled the air as the alumni, in their 50s, took a trip down memory lane by wearing their old school uniforms: white on pink and white on green.

    The event climaxed in a glamorous third-day gala night in the Federal Capital Territory.

    The weekend wasn’t just about reminiscing but also a joyful revival of their school traditions.

    Read Also: No disagreement with Govs over local government administration — Tinubu

    Participants playfully recreated school activities, such as morning assemblies and roll calls, adding a nostalgic touch with a light-hearted version of school discipline.

    Some alumni, including Brigadier General Ojogbane Adegbe, humorously took on roles like the Labour Prefect to remind everyone of the school’s strict rules from their past.

    As excitement built in their WhatsApp group, alumni shared photos and updates, fostering a sense of anticipation for future gatherings.

    The reunion also had a philanthropic spirit, offering free medical check-ups and an inspiring talk from their former principal, Mrs. Hannatu Iko, who proudly celebrated their achievements.

    The class of ‘88 holds a unique place in the school’s history, as they were part of a diverse group known for their academic and extracurricular achievements.

    They also experienced a noteworthy change when the school switched to the new 6-3-3-4 education system, meaning they spent an extra year in school, making their graduation stand out.

    A highlight of the reunion was the appointment of new executive members to steer the alumni association forward. The newly elected leadership includes Ademola Ojo as president, Florence Sadoh Nnamani as vice president, Bala Ahmed Yabagi as secretary, Abdulmalik Salihu as financial secretary, Rejoice Yakubu (treasurer) and Ojogbane Adegbe (Public Relations Officer).