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Tag: Army

  • Economy: Tantita pledges collaboration with Army

    Economy: Tantita pledges collaboration with Army

    Private security firm, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), has pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian Army in order to boost the nation’s economy.

    Tantita’s Executive Director, Operations and Technical, Captain Warredi Enisuoh, gave the assurance at the West African Social Activities otherwise known as WASA at the Effurun Barracks in Uvwie council area of Delta state, Sunday, December 31.

    “We will continue to strengthen our collaboration. We will continue to look more into how our works and partnerships are going to help the country’s economy. Because the country needs us like anything, if not before, even more than that by now.

    “And we will continue to seek for their unequivocal support. We will continue to share a lot with them and then, we expect them to also collaborate with other military arms so that we can all work towards making Nigeria a better country, ” Enisuoh stated. 

    The Commander, 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Sanusi Aliyu, in his speech attributed the achievements in the fight against crude oil theft and other crimes, particularly in the Niger Delta region, on collaboration with sister agencies.

    He called for continuous collaboration with other security agencies.

    “The professional and military competence of our troops are proving to be veritable recipe for operational successes in the field.

    “The series of gains recorded by this Brigade against illicit oil bunkering activities and economic sabotage in our areas of responsibility underpins these assertions.

    “In this regard, the WASA is geared towards positive reflection on the closing year in order to refuel for the coming year,” Brigadier-General Aliyu asserted.

    The WASA which witnessed feasting with the civilian public, family and friends, is usually celebrated by the Nigerian Army to mark the end of an administrative year.

  • Army decorates 47 newly promoted Major Generals

    Army decorates 47 newly promoted Major Generals

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on Thursday, December 28, decorated the 47 Brigadier General that were recently promoted to the rank of General in the Nigerian Army.

    The new Major Generals were decorated with their new ranks at the Nigerian Army Command Officers Mess, Asokoro, Abuja.

    The Nation recalled that the Army Council had on December 21 approved the promotion of 47 Brigadier Generals to the rank of Major General, while 75 Colonels were elevated to the rank of Brigadier General.

    Among those newly decorated Major Generals are WB Etuk, JE Osifo, WM Dangana, TB Ugiagbe, ASM Wase, MA Abdullahi, BI Alaya, AO Oyelade, OO Arogundade, EI Okoro, CR Nnebeife, FU Mijinyawa, MT Abdullahi, M Adamu, ND Shagaya, ME Onoja, MO Erebulu, BA Ilori, MO Ihanuwaze, O Nwachukwu, EE Ekpenyong, SI Musa, M Galadima, ànd AP Ahmadu.

    Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, urged the newly decorated officers to continue leading by example and inspiring others to better their footsteps. 

    Matawalle who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event said the Nigerian Army needs more leaders like them “who are willing to put their lives on the line for the sake of our nation.”

    He said: “This promotion is a beacon of hope to all Nigerians and a call to elevate your efforts in the fight against insecurity especially in the North West and other parts of the Country. 

    “Your promotion is a testament to your many years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving our great nation. As a Nigerian, I know firsthand the sacrifices that come with attaining this height. It takes a lot of courage, discipline, and resilience to rise through the ranks.

    “I am also aware of the rigorous process of selecting those being honoured here today and I am bold to say you are all indeed one of our finest breed and the Nation is proud of you. 

    “You have all shown exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking and a deep understanding in the course of your careers. Your contributions to the Nigerian Army are invaluable, and we are confident that you will continue to serve our nation with honour and distinction.”

    In his speech, The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, congratulated the newly decorated major generals, saying their promotion was a reward for their hard work and commitment to duty.

    Lagbaja said the Nigerian army as a system frowns at incompetence and urged them to give their best having attained the level of policy formulation in the Nigerian army.

    He urged them to be logical and objective in their professional dealings as well as put in their best towards delivering on his command philosophy.

    He advised those who did not benefit from the promotion to see it as a challenge and work harder for it in the future.

    Read Also: Army confirms arrest of soldier for killing driver in Borno

    “Today, these 47 newly decorated major generals have ticked the necessary boxes and have been rewarded for their hard work.

    “I want to add that getting here is not the end, what you do with the rank and the responsibilities that comes with it count tremendously.

    “Going from here, I must remind you that you have now joined the system and going forward, when you point an accusing finger at the system, know that four fingers are pointed at you and the rest possibly misdirected.”

    Giving vote of thanks on behalf of other decorated officers, Maj.-Gen. GTO Ajetimobi, said they were highly motivated with their new rank. He also assured of their loyalty and dedication to duty in line with the COAS command philosophy.

  • Army confirms arrest of soldier for killing driver in Borno

    Army confirms arrest of soldier for killing driver in Borno

    The 7 Division of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri, has confirmed the arrest of a soldier for allegedly killing a truck driver at a checkpoint along Maiduguri – Dikwa- Gamboru road.

    The incident occured following a misunderstanding between the soldier and the truck driver at the checkpoint.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the incident, which occurred on Boxing Day, has led to total boycott of the busy border road in protest by commercial drivers leaving many travellers stranded.

    Confirming the arrest on Thursday in a statement, Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, the 7 Division Public Relations Officer, said army had commenced investigation after receiving complaint from National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

    “Furthermore, engagement has been established with NURTW towards a peaceful resolution of the incident.

    “The Division has assured both the family of the deceased and the NURTW of its commitment to ensure that justice is served to the family and no stone would be left unturned in this regard.

    “In the Division’s effort towards ensuring that the family of the victim gets justice, the soldier in question has been arrested, and an investigation has commenced.

    “It’s also worthy to mention that the Division does not tolerate any form of unprofessional conduct from any personnel as we operate within the ambit of the law.

    “The Division wishes to once again reassure the members of the general public that we will remain resolute and professional in the joint effort to tackle insecurity in Borno State,” Jingina said.

    Read Also: Defence Minister assures Army retirees of pension payment

    Also reacting to the incident, Borno Government through the Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, said it was following up the matter to ensure justice was done.

    “The Government is following up this matter, and will take all necessary measures to ensure that the matter is properly investigated and suspects are prosecuted. Anyone who is found guilty will face the full wrath of the law.

    “Meanwhile, the Borno State Government urges the general public and, in particular, members of the Road Transport Workers Union, to maintain patience and decorum while the matter is handled according to the law,” Tar pleaded.

    (NAN)

  • Defence Minister assures Army retirees of pension payment

    Defence Minister assures Army retirees of pension payment

    The Nigerian Army will ensure prompt pension payments to retiring officers,

    the Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has said.

     He gave the assurance in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General Onyema Nwachukwu.

    According to the statement, the Minister gave the assurance during a Regimental Dinner Night organised in honour of newly retired and retiring senior  officers at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess Asokoro, Abuja.

    The Army had announced that one general, one lieutenant-general, 67 major generals, and 44 brigadier-generals had bowed out.

    He hailed the officers for their sacrifices, and commitment to the nation.

    The minister urged the retirees to  reflect appropriately on the next phase of life, assuring them of the government’s commitment to prompt payment of pensions for retired personnel.

    The Minister saluted the retirees, expressed the nation’s gratitude for their service and love for the country, and commended their spouses for their perseverance.

    He  charged members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal and sustain the culture of supporting democracy in Nigeria and across the shores, adding that the disposition of the Armed Forces towards democracy had made it a shining example in West Africa and an influencer in the community of nations.

    He noted that the occasion provided the Army with the opportunity to reflect on its service and profound dedication as demonstrated by the retired and retiring senior officers, adding that the experiences and skills garnered while in service and respect for diversity, which have been their working principles throughout their careers, will provide them with a veritable platform as they exit the service.

    He added that the Federal Government would continue to improve the well-being of serving and retired personnel.

    Read Also: Akeredolu was a patriot, Mimiko mourns

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, enjoined the retired senior officers to appreciate God and the Army for a successful sojourn in the ‘noble profession of arms’ and attaining the point of meritorious disengagement from active service.

    The COAS congratulated and appreciated the wives and families of the retired senior officers for their patience and support while holding the home front.

    Gen. Lagbaja expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar for their support of the Army.

    He reaffirmed the loyalty of the NA to the President and the nation in the discharge of its constitutional roles in defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

    Major-General Victor Ezugwu, who spoke on behalf of the retired generals, thanked the COAS for the honour accorded them, pledging that they would remain good ambassadors of the Army.

    Highlights of the event were the presentation of record service certificates and souvenirs to the retired and retiring senior officers and a  toast to President Tinubu.

  • Army rescues 52 kidnapped victims

    Army rescues 52 kidnapped victims

    • 66 handed over to Sokoto State govt

    No fewer than 52 men and women kidnapped victims were at the weekend rescued in Isa Local Government of Sokoto State by the North-West Operation Hadarin Daji troops of the Joint Task Force.

    A statement issued at the weekend with photos shared on the official handle of the Nigerian Army confirmed the rescue.

    The statement said: “The feat was recorded on December 22, 2023 when troops cleared and destroyed terrorists’ enclaves at Saruwa, Kubuta, Gundumi villages and Bunwanga Gundumi forest in Isa Local Government of Sokoto State.

    “During the operation, the troops of OPHD rescued 52 kidnap victims, while several terrorists were neutralised.  

    “The rescued victims include 14 men, 32 women and six children, who will undergo medical check-up, debrief and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities to reunite them with their families.”

    The Army has handed over 66 victims rescued from bandits and kidnappers to the Sokoto State Government.

    The development followed a successful operation at Gundumi forest in Sokoto by the Army.

    The Garrison Commander 8 Division, Brig.-Gen. Amos Tawasimi, said 51 of them were rescued last Friday, while others were rescued on Saturday.

    “The operation is part of our resilient activities to ensure the state is safe for people to go about their activities.

    “We stormed Gundumi forest three days ago to rescue these people. Some of them have been abducted for months by kidnappers.”

    Read Also: Army rescues 52 kidnapped victims in Sokoto

    Brig.-Gen. Tawasimi hailed Governor Aliyu Sokoto for his support to security agencies.  He said his men would continue to live up to expectation towards freeing Sokoto from the menace.

    Receiving the victims, Governor Sokoto hailed the Army and other security agencies for their efforts and commitment in tackling insecurity.

    He said: “Today marks another milestone in our fight against armed banditry, kidnapping and rustling in the state, as our security operatives have succeeded in rescuing 66 victims, who were kidnapped from villages and communities in Sokoto and other neighbouring states.

    “From what we have gathered, 51 of the victims were rescued on Thursday, while 14 on Saturday.

    “A few weeks ago, 51 victims were rescued after our gallant soldiers dislodged these criminals from their hideouts around Tangaza forest in Tangaza Local Government.

    “This is indeed a commendable effort by our security operatives, especially members of Operation Hadarin Daji to rid our state of banditry, kidnapping, rustling and other forms of criminality, in line with the commitment of this government to restore peace to our dear state and ensure our people living in camps across the state return to their communities and live a normal life devoid of any fear of attack or kidnapping.

    “As you may recall, security of lives and property is a priority of our government. Hence, the regular security meetings being convened with heads of security agencies since coming on board.

    “This is in addition to the necessary support and logistics we give to security operatives in order to ensure they discharge their constitutional responsibilities in the state with ease.”

    The governor said the government had in the last three days handed over 80 new patrol vehicles to security agencies.

    “Alhamdulillah, the House of Assembly has passed into law a bill on the establishment of community guards, who will assist conventional security operatives in securing their communities.

    “These and other measures taken by this administration, which we don’t want to disclose to the public, are part of our efforts to end the menace of armed banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling in our state.”

    He assured the people that his administration will not relent until the state is fully secured.

    In his usual spirit of extending gesture, Governor Sokoto donated a bag of rice, millet and maize in addition to N100,000 each to the rescued victims, as they reunite with their families.

    The former governor, Senator Aliyu Wamakko, who handed over the relief items to the victims, also announced the donation of N100,000 each to them to enable them buy drugs and other items.

    Praising the state government for identifying with the victims, Wamakko, the leader of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, also pledged to support security agencies in the eight local governments of Sokoto East Senatorial District with Toyota Hilux each for operations.

  • Army rescues 52 kidnapped victims in Sokoto

    Army rescues 52 kidnapped victims in Sokoto

    No fewer than 52 males and females kidnapped victims have been rescued in Isa local government of Sokoto state by the North-West Operation Hadarin Daji troops of the Joint Task Force.

    A statement issued on Saturday, December 23, with photos shared on the official handle of the Nigerian Army had confirmed.

    The statement partly read: “The feat was recorded on December 22, 2023, when troops cleared and destroyed terrorists enclaves at Saruwa, Kubuta, Gundumi villages and Bunwanga Gundumi forest in Isa LGA of Sokoto state.

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    “During the operation, the troops of the OPHD rescued 52 kidnap victims while several terrorists were neutralized.

    “The rescued victims include 14 males, 32 females and six children who will undergo medical check-up, debrief and hand over to appropriate authorities to reunite them with their families.”

  • Army, Navy promote 179 Generals

    Army, Navy promote 179 Generals

    • Airforce lifts 37 senior officers

    The Army Council has approved the promotion of 122 senior officers to the ranks of Major General and Brigadier General.

    A statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu said a total of 47 Brigadier Generals were promoted to the rank of Major General, while 75 Colonels were elevated to the rank of Brigadier General.

    Among the officers promoted to the rank of major general are the Army spokesman, Nwachukwu; Commandant Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, Brig.-Gen. WB Etuk, and the Commandant Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration, Brig.-Gen. JE Osifo.

    Also promoted are the Commander, Sector 3 Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, Brig.-Gen. WM Dangana; the Acting Chief of Military Intelligence, Brig.-Gen. TB Ugiagbe, and the Deputy Director General, Land Forces Stimulation Centre Nigeria Operations, Brig.-Gen. ASM Wase.

    Others include the Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. MA Abdullahi; Commander, Command Engineering Depot, Brig.-Gen. BI Alaya, and Director Personnel Planning Army Headquarters, Brig.-Gen. AO Oyelade.

    Also promoted to the rank of general are the Commandant Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Brig.-Gen. OO Arogundade; Commander 13 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. EI Okoro and the Executive Director Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited, Brig.-Gen. CR Nnebeife.

    The new generals include Brig.-Gen. FU Mijinyawa, Director Plans Army Headquarters Department of Policy and Plans; Brig.-Gen. MT Abdullahi, Commander 50 Space Command; Brig.-Gen. M Adamu, Commander 32 Brigade, and Brig.-Gen. ND Shagaya, Commandant Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport.

    Also promoted are Brig.-Gen. ME Onoja Office of the Chief of Defence Staff; Brig.-Gen. MO Erebulu, Acting Director Psychological Warfare Defence Headquarters, and Brig.-Gen. B. A Ilori, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison Ordnance Services.

    Read Also: Army promotes 122 seniors officers to rank of General

    They also include Brig.-Gen. MO Ihanuwaze, Director Budget Army Headquarters; Brig.-Gen EE Ekpenyong, Nigerian Army Resource Centre; Brig.-Gen. SI Musa, Director Legal Service (Army), Brig.-Gen. M Galadima, Commander Command Finance Office, and Brig.-Gen. AP Ahmadu, Commander 1 Division Ordnance Service.

    “Officers promoted from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General are Col. Nwakonobi, Chief of Staff Headquarters 3 Brigade; Col. MC Akin Ojo, Commander 41 Engineer Brigade; Col. BM Madaki, Deputy Director Army Headquarters Operations Monitoring Team, and Col. MO Edide, Directing Staff Army War College Nigeria.

    “Col KE Inyang, Commander 76 ST Brigade; Col. OO Nafiu, Chief of Staff  Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Col. PA Zipele, Commander Signal Operations Command, and Col. OA Onasanya, Acting Command Guards Brigade.”

    Also promoted are Col. MI Amatso, Deputy Director Department of Civil Military Affairs, Col. CM Akaliro, Deputy Director of Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation; Col. NE Okoloagu, Directing Staff Army War College Nigeria, and Col. AS Bugaje, Acting Director of Special Forces Infantry Corps Centre.

    “They also include Col. AM Kitchner, Commander 6 Division Finance and Account;  Col. SJ Dogo, Deputy Chief of Staff Operations Headquarters 82 Division and Col. JN Garba Commander 32 Brigade Garrison.

    “Others are Col. PT Gbor, Commander 81 Military Intelligence Brigade; Col. SO Okoigi, Acting Corps Commander Nigerian Army Medical Corps; Col. AF Maimagani, Acting Director Chaplaincy (Roman Catholic) and Col. PO Alimekhena, Headquarters 81 Division.

    “They also include Col. BI George, Acting Director, Directorate of Dental Services Headquarters Nigerian Army Medical Corps; Col. IB Gambari, Headquarters 63 Brigade and Col. AY Emekoma Participant Senior Executive Course 45 National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies.

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS ), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja,  congratulated the newly promoted senior officers and their families.

    Lagbaja charged them to redouble their efforts to justify their elevation and the confidence reposed in them.

    Also, the Navy Board has approved the promotions of the Naval Spokesman, Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, and 29 other senior officers to the rank of Rear Admiral and 28 Captains to the rank of Commodore.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director of Information, Navy, Commodore Ayo-Vaughan on Friday in Abuja.

    According to the statement, those promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral include; Commodores Adefemi Kayode, Kabir Mohammed, Gabriel Aligwe, Aliyu Gaya, Shehu Gombe, Godfrey Kwetishe, Robert Obeya, and Musa Katagum.

    Others are Kehinde Odubanjo, Pakiribo Anabraba, Suleiman Ibrahim, Olugbenga Oladipo, Haruna Zego, Mohammed Dahiru, Nnamdi Ekwom, Stephen Ibrahim, Mohammed Muye, Aniefiok Uko, Anenechukwu Ezenma, Olufemi Adeleke, Etop Ebe, Sunday Yahaya, Umaru Faruk, Michael Igwe, Ikenna Ubanni, Emmanuel Anakwe, Omotola Olukoya.

    However, one of the officers, Joseph Ake was promoted to retirement, according to the statement.

    Ayo-Vaughan said that the newly promoted Commodores are Capt. Innocent Udoudoh, Mohammed Umaru, Iliya Abdu, Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Reginald Adoki, Abimbola Agunbiade, Christian Akokota, Chukwuma Azuike, Adegoke Ebo, Innocent Ejiofor and Tahir Ngada,

    Others are, Oluseyi Oladipo, Shehu Tasiu, Aliyu Umaru, Peter Yilme, Sikiru Abdulraheem, Tunde Abdulrahim, Emeka Chinaka, Effiom Ekpenyong, George Nwabunike, Akinrinsola Obisesan, Igbani Agwu, Babatunde Kuton, Ahmad Madawaki, Momoh Salihu.

    Additionally, Captains Hassan Dogara, Olajide Babalola, and Suleiman Idris were promoted to retirement.

    “The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, on behalf of officers, ratings, and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy, rejoice with the newly promoted senior officers and their families.

    “He charged them to rededicate themselves to the service of fatherland and remain loyal to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu,” he said.

    Similarly, the Air Force Council (AFC) has approved the promotion of 37 senior officers to the next higher ranks in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    This was contained in a statement by the deputy director of Public Relations & Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali on Friday.

    Of the 37 senior officers promoted, 22 were elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 15 were elevated to the rank of Air Commodore.

    Those elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal include the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters NAF (HQ NAF), Edward Gabkwet, Abubakar Sule, Olayinka Oyesola, Abubakar Bukar, Razaq Olanrewaju, Olanrewaju Oyename, Ahmed Idris, Abdulrasheed Kotun and Chidiebere Obiabaka.

    Others include Gambo Mbaka, Felix Uwakara, John Ukeh, Emeka Ashiegbu, Zayyan Usman, Mohammed Ibrahim, Babatunde Ajayi, David Dickson, Muhammed Sulaiman, Rasaq Shittu, Friday Ogohi, Henry Yurkusi and Suleiman Usman.

  • Army promotes 122 seniors officers to rank of General

    Army promotes 122 seniors officers to rank of General

    The Army Council has approved the promotion of senior officers to the next ranks of Major General and Brigadier General respectively.

    A statement by Army spokesperson Brigadier General Onyema Nwachuckwu on Friday, December 22, disclosed that the council gave the approval on Thursday 21 December 2023.

    He said a total of 47 Brigadier Generals have been promoted to the rank of Major General, while 75 Colonels have also been elevated to the rank of Brigadier General accordingly.

    According to the statement, those promoted to the rank of Major General include, Brig Gen WB Etuk Commandant Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, Brig Gen JE Osifo Commandant Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration, Brigadier General WM Dangana Commander Sector 3 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Brig Gen TB Ugiagbe Acting Chief of Military Intelligence, Brig Gen ASM Wase Deputy Director General Land Forces Stimulation Centre Nigeria Operations, Brig Gen MA Abdullahi Commandant Depot Nigerian Army, Brig Gen BI Alaya Commander Command Engineering Depot, Brig Gen AO Oyelade Director Personnel Planning Army Headquarters Department of personnel Management, Brig Gen OO Arogundade Commandant Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Brig Gen EI Okoro Commander 13 Brigade, Brig Gen CR Nnebeife Executive Director Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited.

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    The statement further read: “Others include Brig Gen FU Mijinyawa Director Plans Army Headquarters Department of Policy and Plans, Brig Gen MT Abdullahi Commander 50 Space Command, Brig Gen M Adamu Commander 32 Brigade, Brig Gen ND Shagaya Commandant Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, Brig Gen ME Onoja Office of the CDS and Brig Gen MO Erebulu Acting Director Psychological Warfare Defence Headquarters.

    “Equally elevated to the rank of Major General are Brig Gen BA Ilori Commander Army Headquarters Garrison Ordnance Services, Brig Gen MO Ihanuwaze Director Budget Army Headquarters, Brig Gen O Nwachukwu Director Army Public Relations, Brig Gen EE Ekpenyong of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Brig Gen SI Musa Director Legal Service (Army), Brig Gen M Galadima Commander Command Finance Office and Brig Gen AP Ahmadu Commander 1 Division Ordnance Service.

    “Officers promoted from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General are Col Nwakonobi Chief of Staff Headquarters 3 Brigade, Col MC Akin Ojo Commander 41 Engineer Brigade, Col BM Madaki Deputy Director Army Headquarters Operations Monitoring Team, Col MO Edide Directing Staff Army War College Nigeria, Col KE Inyang Commander 76 ST Brigade, Col OO Nafiu Chief of Staff Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Col PA Zipele Commander Signal Operations Command, Col OA Onasanya Acting Command Guards Brigade, Col MI Amatso Deputy Director Department of Civil Military Affairs, Col CM Akaliro Deputy Director Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, Col NE Okoloagu Directing Staff Army War College Nigeria, Col AS Bugaje Acting Director Special Forces Infantry Corps Centre, Col AM Kitchner Commander 6 Division Finance and Account, Col SJ Dogo Deputy Chief of Staff Operations Headquarters 82 Division and Col JN Garba Commander 32 Brigade Garrison.”

  • Army absolves serving general of corruption allegation

    Army absolves serving general of corruption allegation

    The Nigerian Army on Wednesday in Abuja dismissed as false and malicious, allegations that its Chief of Logistics, Maj.-Gen. Erema Ajerejola, acquired a million-dollar property in the U.S. with proceeds from contract scams.

    Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, stated that the allegation in online media was a deliberate effort to mislead the public and smear the general and the Nigerian army.

    He stated also that the reaction was necessitated by the fact that the Nigerian army holds transparency and accountability as some of its core values.

    He added that the property was acquired 12 years ago on a mortgage which was still being paid for by Mrs Ajerejola, who had been living and working in the U.S. for the past 19 years.

    “Insinuating that the owner of the property comes from a poor background is a slap in the face of every hardworking Nigerian who has made something positive for themselves, despite their birth circumstances.

    “It is important to note that Gen. Ajerejola was appointed as Chief of Logistics, Nigerian Army, only about six months ago, while the property was acquired about 12 years ago.

    “The vague report intentionally failed to mention the year of acquisition and ignored other details for sensationalism and mischief.

    “The writer did not provide any shred of proof for the story other than the supposed words of unnamed sources, who appear disgruntled, if at all, they even exist.

    “The real intention of the infamous online medium in publishing such toxic concoctions at this critical period is targeted at causing disaffection and shaking the table within the army,” Nwachukwu stated.

    He added that the army’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity remained unwavering, and it would not condone any form of corruption or fraudulent activity.

    According to him, it is regrettable that such unfounded allegation has been made against a highly-respected officer who has a distinguished record of service and has consistently demonstrated utmost professionalism and dedication to duty.

    Nwachukwu urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from spreading false information capable of tarnishing the reputation of individuals who had dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.

    The army’s spokesman also urged the media to carry out their responsibilities with the highest level of professionalism by ensuring that accurate and verifiable information was disseminated.

    He reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to its mission of protecting the territorial integrity of the nation and serving as a force for good.

    Read Also: Tinubu to Army: don’t be partisan, be vigilant to protect democracy

    He added that army would continue to hold itself accountable to the Nigerian people and operate with transparency and integrity at all times.

    “It must be asserted that the Nigerian Army under the current leadership has remained resolute in carrying out its Constitutional role and will vigorously continue to implement welfare programmes for the benefit of all personnel.

    “Troops deployed in on-going operational engagements are putting in their best in the defence of the nation and should be encouraged, rather than plotting disaffection amongst them.

    “We assure the public that any allegation of wrongdoing within our ranks will be thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions taken in accordance with the provisions of the law.

    “The Nigerian army remains committed to upholding the trust reposed in it by Nigerians,’’ Nwachukwu stressed.

    (NAN)

  • Horrid error 

    Horrid error 

    • Army’s killing of Kaduna worshippers is security mission grossly misdirected

    A sorry matter soured the nation. More than 80 villagers were killed penultimate Sunday in a drone attack by the Nigerian Army personnel aimed at terrorists but delivered on worshippers. The tragedy, which occurred at Tudun Biri village in Igabi council area of Kaduna State, has left the nation seeking answers. Why, many are asking, could the carnage of innocents not have been avoided?

    The army conducted what was said to be a routine airstrike targeted at terrorists and bandits that had been infesting the area. Only that when the strike hit home, it was against harmless religious adherents celebrating the Maulud. New reports say some Christians in the area also lost their lives in the inferno. Neither the military nor the Kaduna State government provided the official casualty toll. But the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in a statement, said 85 bodies, including those of children, women and the elderly had been buried while search was underway for additional victims. The agency added that at least 66 people were injured. Community sources estimated the death toll at far in excess of 100.

    Following the mishap, it was initially thought the bomb was dropped by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), but the force disclaimed the operation. NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said in a statement: “The news making the rounds that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft accidentally killed innocent civilians in Kaduna is false. Please be informed that the NAF has not carried out any air operations within Kaduna State and environs in the last 24 hours. Also note that the NAF is not the only organisation operating combat armed drones in the Northwestern region of Nigeria.”

    However, the army has since owned up to the incident, which it regretted as an error. During a visit to the affected community last week Tuesday, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, apologised for the drone strike, saying it was carried out “based on observation of some tactics usually employed by bandits; unfortunately, the reports we got revealed it was innocent civilians the drone conducted a strike on.”

    Director of Defence Media Operations, Major-Gen. Edward Buba, gave a more detailed narrative in a statement, saying the strike was based on credible intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area. According to him, a Nigerian Army Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) detachment had that Sunday night observed suspicious movement of terrorists around the community, known to be a terrorist-infested area of Kaduna State. Aerial surveillance, he said, captured movement of groups of persons akin to terrorists’ tactics and modus operandi, and the observed advance of the terrorists posed a threat to key infrastructure within reach. That threat, Buba explained, was eliminated to prevent the terrorists attacking innocent civilians.

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    The defence spokesman said: “It should be noted that terrorists often deliberately embed themselves within civilian population centres for civilians to bear the consequences of their atrocities. Nevertheless, the Nigerian military does its best at all times to distinguish between civilians and terrorists. The military views every civilian death in the course of operations as a tragedy; as such tragedies are needless and unwanted, which causes the armed forces to take extensive measures to avoid them.” He explained that one such measure taken by the military was to continually sensitise communities “to always alert troops of their activities, particularly when such a community is known to be infested with terrorists and their sympathisers. These instructions are intended at enabling the military to distinguish between friendly and untoward activities.” It was not clear if Buba was thereby saying Tudun Biri village residents did not pre-notify the army of their outing that fateful Sunday.

    For his part, army spokesperson, Brigadier-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, said service personnel had been on “aerial patrol when they observed a group of people and wrongly analysed and misinterpreted their pattern of activities to be similar to that of bandits,” leading them to carry out the drone strike. He added in a statement that the general area had before now been subjected to frequent attacks by terrorists operating in the area, hence the aerial patrol.

    The military are, no doubt, rendering great service in securing the country against the menace of terrorists. In the past year, we have witnessed the dislodgement, arrests and evisceration of their goons and camps. We are supposed to show gratitude. But the Tudun Biri incident is another cue for a reality check. It is curious that the strike aimed at terrorists but ended up killing scores of harmless villagers, without confirmed indication of terrorists being among the casualties. This suggests there was a terribly wrong lead but it has been perceived in some quarters as wrongheaded. It may have arisen from faulty intelligence. We need an independent analysis of the data that informed such an attack, and expert views untainted by partisan interest are required as to whether the data justified that action or whether the decision came out of incompetence, impetuosity or malice. We need to know the facts. How, for instance, did the intelligence operate and did not see the presence of women and children, who apparently made the curious body count? The huge death toll also evidenced lack of precision and indiscriminate target-aiming by army personnel. 

    Could it be there was a challenge with the mastery of the technology used for the operation? If so, it implies carelessness at the highest level. How can a technologically untrained or immature person handle a matter of life and death? How come no child was seen? Was there not supposed to be layers of checks before unleashing weapons in a society in which innocents mix with the guilty? Traditionally, the NAF handled aerial dimension of security missions, but the army now has an air wing for its operations. Are the personnel of this wing sufficiently stewed in handling aerial missions, or is there a need for tutelage by the NAF to cultivate precision skills? Did institutional arrogance play a part in a lack of synergy with the NAF before carrying out the assault?

    We also condemn some persons who have turned it into a case of religious quarrel. Some have sullied it into a north-and-south matter and Christian versus Muslim fisticuff. Some clerics have lost their pious detachment and uttered incendiary rhetoric, trying to stoke citizens against citizens. Let us not imply without evidence that the army attacked out of ill-will. The same forces have been defending the communities with bandits casting long shadows of death and fear on innocent lives. They deserve a benefit of the doubt while the country comes to the truth about it. The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has visited the community and families and assured of the government’s sincerity to find out the truth and bring a measure of restitution to affected families. We know that no amount of restitution can replace a human being and that is why we must not repeat that disaster even as we seek the truth.

     We appreciate the symbolism of lawmakers volunteering their salaries, even if the public sees it as cynical sacrifice for a tribe that earns bountifully at the expense of the people. The lawmakers more importantly need to help in seeking a closure on this matter by investing time in the investigation.

    President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation. It is expected that the findings will be made public when the probe is completed and lessons drawn therefrom diligently applied. The Tudun Biri mishap is one too many and everything must be done to prevent a reoccurrence.