The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Army

  • Army to troops: be wary of emerging threats, use of social media

    Army to troops: be wary of emerging threats, use of social media

    The Nigerian Army has tasked its officers and troops on the need for them to be sensitive to emerging threats within their operating environment and acceptable use of social media.

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, gave the advice while declaring open a security sensitisation lecture for officers and soldiers at the headquarters 82 Division in Enugu.

    Dada said the lecture was aimed at educating the troops on emergent security issues and threats as well as how best army personnel could respond to them.

    The GOC said it was expedient to brainstorm from time to time and share updates on emerging security threats and strategies to counter such threats.

    He emphasised the Nigerian Army’s commitment to training of personnel to improve operational effectiveness in line with international best practices.

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    Dada added that the significant successes recorded by the division would be attributable to adequate training.

    The GOC also advised troops to be vigilant in observing and identifying security threats in their various areas of responsibility/operation and promptly responsive to such threats.

    This, he said, would proactively prevent security breaches.

    Dada hailed the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army), Maj.-Gen. Thompson Ugiagbe, for dedicating time to deliver the lecture to officers and troops of the formation.

    Delivering the lecture, Ugiagbe explained that it became necessary, considering some significant international and national developments in contemporary security threats.

    He stressed the need for troops to be loyal, disciplined, and ensure personnel, material and information security.

     “If compromised, these could jeopardise national security,” Ugiagbe said.

  • Army attributes successes in Southeast to constant training

    Army attributes successes in Southeast to constant training

    The Nigerian Army has said that the significant successes it had recorded in the Southeast and some part of Southsouth was due to adequate training given to the troops.

    The General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, stated this at a security sensitisation lecture for officers and soldiers at the Headquarters 82 Division, Enugu.

    The lecture, aimed at educating the troops on emergent security issues, threats and how best personnel could respond to them, was delivered by the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army) Major General Thompson Bobby Ugiagbe weekend.

    General Dada, in his welcome address, stated that it is expedient to brainstorm from time to time to share updates on emerging security threats and strategies to counter such threats.

    The GOC further emphasised the Nigerian Army’s commitment to training of personnel to improve operational effectiveness in line with international best practices.

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    He added that the significant successes recorded by the Division thus far were attributable to adequate training.

    The GOC also advised troops to be vigilant in observing and identifying security threats in their respective areas of responsibility and promptly responsive to such threats.

    This, he said, will proactively prevent security breaches.

    General Dada commended the CMI (A) for dedicating time to deliver the lecture to troops of the Division.

    While delivering his lecture, Maj. Gen Bobby Ugiagbe clarified that the sensitisation lecture became necessary, considering some significant international and national developments in contemporary security threats.

    He stressed the need for troops to be loyal, disciplined and ensure personnel, material and information security.

    While warning that if this is compromised, it could further jeopardize the already fractured security of the country. He charged the officers and soldiers to show a high level of discipline and professionalism in their daily operational tasks and engagements.

    He further stated that the Nigerian Army has a sacred obligation to ensure that personnel perform their duties within the ambit of the law.

    In his words, “to this end all personnel must take security awareness seriously.”

    He also pointed out the need for compliance with extant regulations for acceptable use of social media, in order not to run afoul of the provisions of the Armed Forces Policy on the abuse of the social media.

  • Army probes alleged maltreatment of female soldier

    Army probes alleged maltreatment of female soldier

    The Nigerian Army (NA) has said it will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegation by a female officer claiming  maltreatment by senior officers.

    The Army authorities yesterday said that it has been inundated with audiovisuals making the rounds on social media of the unprofessional conduct of a female soldier in mufti, who claimed to have been maltreated by some senior officers.

    Reacting to the claim in a statement, the Director, Army Public Relations, Major Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, said the Army authorities would conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

    “It is instructive to state that considering the gravity of the allegations,  NA as a disciplined force will conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

    “It is crucial to point out that contrary to the claims made in the video, the soldier in question has not exhausted the laid down procedure for seeking redress in the NA.

    “This is aside Human Rights and Gender Desks established in Army Headquarters and across NA formations, where complaints about human rights and gender issues are also entertained.”

    He said the NA remains a professional force that regulates itself and conducts its activities in adherence to established rules and ethics.

    Read Also: Army probes alleged maltreatment of female soldier

    “The NA remains a professional force that self-regulates and conducts its activities in adherence to established rules and ethics, while upholding the highest standards of discipline amongst personnel.

     “We therefore encourage all personnel to always utilize the established channels for addressing grievances and concerns as a member of a noble and disciplined force.

     “We assure the general public that the NA as an institution is committed to upholding the integrity and morals of its personnel and as such, appropriate actions will be  taken based on the findings of the investigation.

     “We urge the public to allow the investigative process to take its course and refrain from making hasty judgments. The NA remains dedicated to serving our nation with honor and integrity.”

  • Army probes alleged maltreatment of female soldier

    Army probes alleged maltreatment of female soldier

    The Nigerian Army has begun an investigation into allegations of maltreatment of a female soldier by senior officers.

    The investigation is to ascertain the extent of her claims.

    The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Oyenma Nwachukwu disclosed this in a statement on Friday, January 12.

    The social media had been awashed by a female soldier in mufti, who claimed to have been maltreated by some senior officers.

    Nwachukwu said that considering the gravity of the allegations, the Army as a disciplined force would conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

    According to the army spokesperson, contrary to the claims made in the video, the soldier in question has not exhausted the laid down procedure for seeking redress in the Nigerian Army.

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    He said: “Aside from human rights and gender desks established in Army Headquarters and across Nigerian Army formations, where complaints about human rights and gender issues are also entertained.

    “The Nigerian Army remains a professional force that self-regulates and conducts its activities in adherence to established rules and ethics while upholding the highest standards of discipline amongst personnel.

    “We therefore encourage all personnel to always utilize the established channels for addressing grievances and concerns as a member of a noble and disciplined force.”

    Nwachukwu assured that the Nigerian Army, as an institution is committed to upholding the integrity and morals of its personnel, and would take appropriate actions based on the findings of the investigation.

    He also urged the public to allow the investigative process to take its course and refrain from making hasty judgments.

  • Army ready to flush out bandits, kidnappers from Taraba

    Army ready to flush out bandits, kidnappers from Taraba

    The 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, with headquarters in Jalingo, has expressed its determination to flush out bandits and kidnappers as well as stem the tide of other criminal activities in Taraba.

    Maj.-Gen. Frank Etim, Brigade Commander of the formation, made the declaration yesterday at the Combined 6 Brigade and 114 Battalion (Rear) West African Social Activities (WASA) 2023 held in Jalingo.

    Etim said that the brigade would ensure the provision of adequate security to the people of the state.

    He commended the indigenes for their cooperation and support, especially in the area of providing timely information on the movement of bandits and other criminals in the state.

    The brigade commander also thanked the state government for the support in ensuring effective response to security threats in the state.

    He charged officers and men of the brigade to redouble their efforts in response to security threats in the state.

    He said that WASA was part of the appreciation for the success recorded in the previous year, justifying why Lt.- Gen. Taofeek Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), graciously approved the programme for the brigade.

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    Etim, while appreciating the COAS for his steadfastness in ensuring that Nigerian Army carried out its responsibilities satisfactory, thanked Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, GOC of the 3 Armoured Division, Jos, for ensuring that the brigade achieved the task of providing timely and adequate security for the citizens in the state.

    In his remark, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas commended the brigade for stemming the tide of insecurity in the state.

    Kefas, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, said that the peace enjoyed in the state was part of the efforts made by  the Army.

    He pointed out that the peaceful coexistence by diverse ethnic groups in the state was the result of the safe and secured environment.

    While urging the army to redouble its efforts in responding to insecurity challenges in the state, the governor assured that the government had taken tremendous measures in boosting security operations in the state.

  • Torture: Army arrests soldiers in viral video, apologises to public

    Torture: Army arrests soldiers in viral video, apologises to public

    The Authorities of 6 Division, Nigerian Army says it has arrested two personnel who were seen in a viral torture video in Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

    The 31 second clip showed two soldiers beating a shirtless young man with belt.

    A statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, condmned the act, described it as unfortunate and unprofessional of the soldiers.

    Danjuma noted that the General Officer Commanding 6 Div, Major General Jamal Abdulssalam has directed that proper investigation be carried out, assuring that the officers if found wanting would be punished in accordingly.

    The Division appealed to the public to continue to expose unprofessional conducts of personnel within and outside the State.

    The statement said: “the Headquarters, 6 Division, Nigerian Army viewed with utmost dismay the unprofessional conduct of two of its personnel involved in the brutality of a civilian in Rivers state, in a viral video making the rounds in the social media. 

    Read Also: Zamfara: Army denies alleged poor feeding, non payment of troops allowances

    “It is instructive to mention that the soldiers involved in that unprofessional conduct have been clearly identified and arrested. 

    “The Division wishes to unequivocally state that, the Nigerian Army  remains a professional force that conducts its activities in adherence to  established rules of engagement and respect for the fundamental human rights of the citizenry. Thus, no form of infraction would be condoned from erring personnel. 

    “The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Delta  Safe, Major General Jamal Abdussalam has directed that a full scale investigation be conducted immediately. 

    “He has further reassured that no stone will be left unturned to sanction those involved. 

    “Well meaning members of the public are encouraged to continue to provide credible information on such unprofessional conducts, as the Division is poised to be more responsive to the public. 

    “This is one unfortunate  isolated case that would be expeditiously dealt with.”

  • JUST IN: Army arrest two soldiers torturing civilian in Rivers

    JUST IN: Army arrest two soldiers torturing civilian in Rivers

    The Nigeria Army has confirmed the arrest of two soldiers seen in a viral video torturing a half-naked man in a room in Port Harcourt.

    In the video went viral on Tuesday, the soldiers were seen using belts to torture the man.

    It generated a lot of reactions among Nigerians, who called for the arrest and prosecution of the soldiers.

    Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director Public Relations, 6 Division, Nigeria Army, confirmed the arrest of the soldiers in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

    He said the army was disturbed by the trending video and had taken action to punish the soldiers involved.

    “We view with utmost dismay the unprofessional conduct of two of our personnel involved in the brutality of a civilian in Rivers state – in a video making the round.

    “It is instructive to mention that the soldiers involved in that unprofessional conduct have been clearly identified and arrested.

    “The division wishes to unequivocally state that the Nigeria Army remain a professional force that conducts its activities in adherence to established rules of engagement,” he said.

    Danjuma said the army recognises the fundamental human rights of citizens, and as such, frowned at any form of infraction by personnel.

    Read Also: Zamfara: Army denies alleged poor feeding, non payment of troops allowances

    “To this end, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigeria Army, Maj.-Gen. Jamaal Abdulsalam, has directed a full-scale investigation to be conducted immediately.

    “The GOC, who is also the Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Delta Safe, further reassured that those involved will be sanctioned.

    “So, we encourage members of the public to continue to provide credible information about such unprofessional conduct, as the division is responsive to the public,” he added.

    The army spokesman described the behaviour of the soldiers as an isolated case that is being expeditiously dealt with by the army headquarters.

    (NAN)

  • Zamfara: Army denies alleged poor feeding, non payment of troops allowances

    Zamfara: Army denies alleged poor feeding, non payment of troops allowances

    The Nigerian Army 8 Division Headquarters Sokoto, has refuted claims by an online news platform alleging poor feeding and non payment of December 2023 allowances of troops deployed to Zamfara state.

    The Army made the refutation in a statement issued on Wednesday, January 10 and made available to the reporters.

    It said: “The attention of Headquarters 8 Division has been drawn to a report by Sahara Reporters being circulated online alleging that troops deployed in Zamfara state are being poorly fed and have not been paid their December 2023 allowances”

    “It is baffling that this Headquarters which has earnestly prioritized the welfare of its troops has been alleged of depriving them.”

    It described the unfounded allegation as calculated attempt to cause distraction and disharmony among the troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI that have achieved so much in the fight against terrorism and banditry in Zamfara state while urging the public to disregard any misinformation regarding the feeding of its troops in Zamfara State.

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    The reaction contained in a release made available to reporters in Sokoto Wednesday night by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Ikechukwu Eze, explained that the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Sokoto, Major General Godwin Mutkut was always physically at the vanguard of ongoing clearance operations in Zamfara State.

    “The GOC is constantly there to ensure socio-economic activities continue to flourish in the state for the past two weeks and has been feeding from the same source as the troops, demonstrating his commitment to their well-being and morale which is contrary to the claim of poor feeding of the troops.

    “Furthermore, in his commitment to ensuring inclusiveness and accessibility of his troops, he runs an open door policy that encourages any officer or soldier to approach him with their concerns, ideas and challenges regardless of rank or appointment, to ensure that they effectively discharge their responsibilities”, the release pointed out.

    While also acknowledging that there could be gaps in dispensing troops ration, the army noted there could be isolated cases that would have received prompt attention if brought to knowledge of the authority through available channels of communication pointing out that the GOC placed premium attention and concern to the well-being of his troops.

    “We must however clarify that troops’ Operations Allowance for the month of December is still being processed and will be disbursed as soon as it is ready.

    “The Division also wishes to state that it not only recognizes the importance of ensuring the well-being of its officers and soldiers, but also understands the positive impact it will have on their performance and overall morale.

    “Consequently, we will remain dedicated to the welfare and well-being of our troops and will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure that they are adequately catered for.

    “We urge the public to disregard any misinformation regarding the feeding of our troops in Zamfara State as it is calculated to cause distraction and disharmony among the troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI who have achieved so much in the fight against terrorism and banditry in Zamfara State.

    “We appreciate the continued support and understanding of the public as we work tirelessly to maintain peace and security in Zamfara State and Northwestern Nigeria.”

  • Sanwo-Olu’s vindication

    Sanwo-Olu’s vindication

    • The army eventually arrests one of their own for confronting a democratic governor

    It is a scandal with the quality of anonymity of name. The fellow, confirmed as a soldier of the Nigerian Army, went viral as soon as he posted his broadcast of contempt for the world to see and hear.

    His target is the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who had discharged his task as the democratically elected chief executive of that state. The fellow who spewed out unprintable language disparaged the governor for apprehending a fellow soldier who broke the law.

    For him, the soldier was above the law. For him, the governor had no right to arrest him. For him, the governor ought to have left the other soldier on his path of lawlessness and impunity.

    For that, he thought the governor had not only done the wrong thing, he had taken the law into his hands. The soldier on motorcycle did not display the sort of abuse that his defender online threw out with disdain to authority. He was riding his motorcycle known as ‘okada’ against the traffic rule, and the governor happened to be there. Governor Sanwo-Olu ordered him stopped. The culprit was not alone.

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    Three others were caught and they were also ordered to be arrested. Governor Sanwo-Olu was evidently angry and could not hide it as he ordered the soldier who thought he might get a special treatment because of his calling, arrested.

    The video trended for far too long before the army reacted. But they did.

    “The army has investigated and the soldier has been apprehended and we are investigating for every other comical (act) that you have seen on social media,” the chief of army staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, said.

    He said further that, “I want to say that the soldier that was apprehended by the governor of Lagos State while plying on a one-way, does not represent the Nigerian Army because, in every respect, it contravenes what we stand for which is discipline as an army and the constitution and the laws of Lagos state.”

    The soldier was not alone in the aspersions. But the army chief said the others were army impostors.

    “I will say it’s only one soldier that has done that. The others are not personnel of the Nigerian Army.”

    Explaining further, he said, “One of them was wearing the badge upside down and you will know that that is not a personnel of the Nigerian Army. An officer can never do that. And from the utterances that these people made, you’ll know the angle from which they are talking. They are talking about politics, not the army.”

    Some elements of the army still have not delivered themselves from the militaristic temperament of soldiers in their relations with civil authority. This is a throwback to the military era when soldiers exercised impunity in broad daylight and went away with it.

    It shows that some of them do not understand martial discipline and that the soldier is a subordinate institution to democratic authority.

    His resort to the social media again has highlighted the abuse that that platform has been subjected to. Persons of little value to society other than nuisance can draw respectable society’s attention just because they show up with their drivel.

    Free speech has become a licence for abuse.

    General Lagbaja has said that the others who exploited that incident were advancing partisan interests. It is a low that the society has witnessed because of the ease to gain the public ear.

    We commend Governor Sanwo-Olu for demonstrating the need to obey the law and the consequences that await defaulters no matter who they are.

  • Army probes candidates’ fraudulent acts in ongoing recruitment

    Army probes candidates’ fraudulent acts in ongoing recruitment

    The Nigerian Army has begun investigation into fraudulent activities by candidates of the ongoing 86 Regular Recruits Intake.

    The investigation is to identify extent of fraudulent activities by candidates or syndicates.

    Army spokesperson, Maj.-Gen. Oyenma Nwachukwu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, January 5.

    The investigation was instituted after three candidates were caught while attempting to secure vacancies designated for candidates with Lagos state indigeneship. 

    Nwachukwu said the act was a serious breach of the recruitment process, which he said would not be condoned, as the Nigerian Army was dedicated to “ensuring that only the most qualified and deserving candidates are selected to serve in the Army.”

    Nwachukwu said: “The arrest of the fraudulent candidates, whose video went viral on social media, was a result of the commitment of the Nigerian Army in upholding a transparent and credible recruitment process in line with its core values of integrity and fairness. 

    “The video is a pointer to one of the processes to which the candidates were subjected, in order to ensure only true indigenes of a particular State are recruited, using the slots of that state and not non- indigenes. 

    “The video in itself therefore, clearly shows that the process is transparent, as the State Representative, who is a prominent member of the recruitment team has been part and parcel of the process and was given unhindered access to do her job by scrutinizing the candidates’ State of origin, to ascertain the genuineness of their indigeneship claims. 

    “The duty of the State Representative is to identify non-indigenes amongst candidates applying for recruitment and this is applicable in other States of the Federation.”

    He urged all prospective candidates to adhere to the principles of honesty and integrity throughout the recruitment process, as any attempt to manipulate the recruitment process will be met with the full force of the law. 

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    The spokesperson said the Nigerian Army would continue to work closely with relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for this misconduct are held accountable.

    He said: “The culprits involved will be handed over to the appropriate prosecuting agency.

    “The Nigerian Army is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served in this matter.

    “The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to recruit the best and most deserving individuals to serve our nation. We appreciate the support and cooperation of the public, as we work to maintain the integrity of our recruitment process.”