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Tag: Army

  • Army: We will maintain security in Delta

    Army: We will maintain security in Delta

    Delta State has recorded notable improvements in security, with kidnapping cases dropping sharply in recent months, the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Abdulmoshood Shonibare.

    Addressing reporters after the Delta State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba, Shonibare said the session reviewed the state’s security situation since the last ad hoc meeting and found that enhanced coordination among security agencies, traditional rulers, and local government authorities had yielded positive results.

    “Delta State is calmer than it was a few months ago, and we can all attest to this. The cases of kidnappings have dramatically reduced, and cultists no longer have a foothold here,” Shonibare said.

    He cited a recent rescue operation in which two female students and a male student, kidnapped in separate incidents, were rescued unhurt.

    The operation, conducted with the Nigerian Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad, led to the killing of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and 16 rounds of ammunition.

    Shonibare also disclosed that security forces have been intercepting fleeing criminal elements, including members of the proscribed IPOB group, who were attempting to hide in Asaba, Warri, and surrounding areas.

    “Those who think Delta State is a safe haven should think twice. We are coming after them,” he warned.

    On grassroots security, the Brigade Commander said measures were underway to tackle drug abuse and trafficking, describing them as major drivers of crime.

    He noted that recent visits by senior military officers, including the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General E.E. Emeka, and engagements with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State, had strengthened anti-drug operations in Ughelli, Abraka, Warri, and other hotspots.

    Read Allso: Anambra Govt condemns assault on corps member, arrests security operatives involved

    On his part, Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, highlighted the police command’s achievements in collaboration with other security agencies.

    These included the neutralization of several kidnap suspects, recovery of multiple firearms including AK-47, pump-action rifles and the seizure of N5.7 million in ransom money from kidnappers.

    Olufemi assured residents and investors of a peaceful festive season, noting that preparations for the ember months were already underway.

    “Last year, Delta had one of its most peaceful Christmas celebrations. This year will be even more peaceful. Deltans can return home to celebrate with their loved ones without fear,” he said.

    Governor Oborevwori, during the meeting, reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, empowerment programmes, and strengthened security as the year draws to a close, assuring that all necessary measures are in place to protect lives and property.

  • Army reassigns Generals to boost efficiency, strengthen leadership

    Army reassigns Generals to boost efficiency, strengthen leadership

    • COAS okays shake-up, approves new PSOs, GOCs, others

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has approved the redeployment of senior officers to key command, instructional, and staff positions across various formations and units.

    A statement yesterday by the acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Lt.-Col Onyinyechi Anele, announced the reassignments, which are meant to reposition the Nigerian Army for greater operational effectiveness.

    Anele said the redeployment affected few Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters (AHQ), two General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and Brigade Commanders, among others, critical to the Army’s operational and administrative structure.

    She said Major-Generals A. A. Adeyinka and A. A. Adekeye were appointed as Chief of Logistics (Army) and Chief of Personnel Management, respectively; T. B. Ugiagbe as the Chief of Standard and Evaluation; A. A. Idris as the Chief of Military Intelligence, and M. O. Erebulu as the Army’s Provost Marshall.

    Others redeployed include the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA), Maj.-Gen. Ehioze Osifo, to the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation as the Director General; Maj.-Gen. E. A. Anaryu from Defence Space Administration, now the Corps Commander, Supply and Transport, and Maj.-Gen. S. A. Akesode, formerly at the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), moved to the African Union Verification Mission in Tigray Region, Ethiopia, as the Head of Mission.

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    “Senior officers appointed as General Officers Commanding (GOCs) are: Major General A. S. M. Wase from the Department of Training to the Headquarters of the 1 Division/Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) as the GOC 1 Division/Commander Sector 1. Maj.- Gen. C. R. Nnebeife is also appointed as the GOC 2 Division/ Sector 3 Joint Task Force OPFY.

    “Some of the senior officers appointed as Commandants of NA Training Institutions are: Maj.-Gen. M. O. Ihanuwaze from Nigerian Army Finance Insurance Corporation to Nigerian Army Finance School and Administration and appointed Commandant, Maj.-Gen. K. O. Osemwegie, now the commandant of the Army Signal School; Maj.-Gen. A. J. Aliyu was also appointed the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Ordinance School, while Maj.-Gen. A. C. Adetoba was posted from the  Department of Transformation and Innovation to the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management as the Commandant, amongst others.

    “Other senior officers also affected in the redeployment are: Brig.-Gen. M. Jimoh from HQ Operation FANSAN YAMMA to HQ 1 Brigade as the Commander, Brig.-Gen. N. E. Okoloagu from the Army War College Nigeria to 2 Brigade as the Commander, as well as Brig.-Gen. A. A. Bello from the Nigerian Army School of Infantry to 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 JTF South South Operation DELTA SAFE as the Commander.

    “The Chief of Army Staff has charged the newly appointed senior officers to redouble their efforts and commitment to duty in ensuring the sustenance of the ongoing onslaught against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national security, as they assume their new appointments.

    “He also reiterates his commitment to the welfare of troops as paramount to operational successes,” the statement added.

  • Army establishes special forces school in Nasarawa to boost capacity

    Army establishes special forces school in Nasarawa to boost capacity

    The Nigerian Army has established a Special Forces School in Doma, Nasarawa State.

    Established at the premises of the Special Forces Command, the school will serve as a vital training hub for the army’s specialised operations.

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen Olufemi Oluyede, revealed this during a courtesy visit to Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, on Friday.

    He said the school would enhance the army’s capacity to address emerging security challenges. 

    “It will also add strategic value to the state and the nation at large,” he said 

    The army chief commended the state government for it’s support to the army, noting that the cooperation the army receives from the government , people and traditional institutions, has been instrumental in sustaining peace in the state.

    Read Also: Army confirm explosion, fire at barracks in Ogun 

    He said, “I often remind Nigerians that the Nigerian Army belongs to the people — we are drawn from every state and community across our country, and we serve with the single purpose of protecting our citizens. 

    “But security is not the responsibility of the armed forces alone. It is a collective duty that requires partnership, trust, and active support from the public.

    “We are committed to doing our part, but I appeal for continued cooperation so that together, we can safeguard our communities, strengthen peace, and ensure a more secure Nigeria.”

    While appreciating the establishment of the special school in the state, Governor Sule said the project will not only enhance national security but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the state. 

    He said, “Peace is the foundation upon which development is built. Because of the relative stability we enjoy, Nasarawa has been able to pursue ambitious projects in agriculture and solid minerals. 

    “Today, we are advancing large-scale rice cultivation, processing over 3,000 hectares, and commissioning one of the largest lithium processing plants in the country. None of this would be possible without the security agencies working hand-in-hand with our communities.

    “We value the role of the Special Forces Command and Operation Whirl Stroke, whose tireless efforts have kept our state peaceful despite being surrounded by states facing serious security challenges.”

  • Army confirm explosion, fire at barracks in Ogun 

    Army confirm explosion, fire at barracks in Ogun 

     The Nigerian Army has confirmed a minor explosion and fire outbreak in the early hours of Thursday at Ilese Barracks, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun.

    The Army spokesperson, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, in a statement on Thursday, said no life was lost during the unfortunate incident.

    Anele stated that a localised explosion occurred within a storage building of the 42 Engineers Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron, causing a limited fire outbreak.

    Swift intervention by troops of the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, in collaboration with the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, ensured the fire was quickly contained.

    Read Also: Army crushes terror cells, 25 ISWAP families rescued

    “No lives were lost, and no injuries were recorded. Damage was limited to the affected building and some stored materials, according to Anele,” Anele said.

    She said a detailed assessment was underway to determine the extent of material loss.

    Anele urged residents of Ilese and nearby communities to remain calm and continue their normal activities.

    “The Nigerian Army, working with relevant agencies, has begun a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident and prevent a recurrence.

    “The Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its personnel and members of neighbouring communities,” Anele added.

    (NAN)

  • Army crushes terror cells, 25 ISWAP families rescued

    Army crushes terror cells, 25 ISWAP families rescued

    • Six kidnapped victims saved in Kogi

    Three notorious terrorists have been killed, 17 arrested and 25 family members rescued by troops of the Nigerian Army across operational theatres, the service said yesterday.

    Also, in another daring rescue, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, in collaboration with other security agencies, have rescued six kidnapped victims in Obajana, Kogi State.

    The operation, which was conducted during the early hours of yesterday, saw the successful rescue of the victims without any casualty.

    Acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Anele, in a statement yesterday said the Borno State operations were carried out between August 11 and 13, by troops of 202 Battalion in Bama Local Government Area and that 25 family members of ISWAP/JAS fighters, comprising 12 adult females and 13 children, surrendered from Zalmari, Gazuwa, and Alafa villages.

    “The surrendered persons are undergoing profiling by the 21 Special Armoured Brigade to determine their level of involvement in insurgent activities,” she said.

    Read Also: Army seeks stronger ties with judiciary, others to fight terrorism

    Anele said troops of 233 Battalion on the same day, while working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, laid an ambush on the Sassawa–Kaburu axis in Damaturu Local Government Area. The encounter, she said, led to the death of a suspected terrorist and recovery of an AK-47 rifle.

    “In Zamfara State, troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 5 repelled an attempted attack on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Galadi in Shinkafi Local Government Area, neutralising one terrorist and confiscating a mobile phone.

    “On August 12, acting on intelligence provided by a rescued kidnap victim, troops stormed Gremasa Mountain in Shanga Local Government Area, Kebbi State, arresting eight suspected kidnappers. The same day, Sector 4 of Operation Safe Haven arrested five suspected pipeline vandals at Kassa Village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State. “Government-owned pipes were recovered, and the suspects were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for prosecution,” she added.

    According to the army, troops of Sector 3 FOB under Operation Whirl Stroke on August 12, arrested two suspected kidnap collaborators in Taraba State, adding that POS machines, ATM cards, and cash were recovered from them, suggesting a link to ransom collection operations.

    “On August 13, troops of 34 Artillery Brigade raided an IPOB/ESN camp at Ndeji Community, a border area linking Anambra, Abia, and Imo states. One armed criminal was neutralised, while troops recovered a pistol with ammunition, cartridges, radios, improvised explosive device components, and mobile phones. Two planted IEDs were later destroyed by the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team,” she said.

    The sustained operations, Anele said, demonstrated the army’s determination to protect lives and property, as well as guarantee the safety of farmers, in line with the federal government’s efforts to boost agricultural productivity and food security.

    “The Nigerian Army will continue to maintain relentless pressure on terrorists and criminal elements until peace and stability are fully restored across the country,” she added.

    Addressing reporters yesterday in Obajana, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Accord III, said the operation was made possible through intelligent reporting and gathering.

    Sidi, represented by the Commanding Officer 126 Battalion, Lt Col. Francis Nwoffiah, said the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, conducted the operations. The commander said the team was able to tracked the kidnappers to a location in the forest, where they were keeping the victims.

    He said the kidnappers fled with injuries after encountering superior firepower from the troops, abandoning their victims and some of their belongings, including ammunition.

    “The rescued victims include the Seriki Fulani of Asinwe community in Okehi Local Government Area, who was abducted from his residence.

    “Four of the victims were kidnapped on August 12 in Asinwe community, while two were abducted on July 28 in Apata community, Lokoja.

    “The victims were successfully rescued unhurt and are set to be reunited with their families after receiving medical attention,” he said.

    The commander warned bandits and kidnappers in Kogi State and its environs to quit or face their waterloo, assuring them that efforts were ongoing to scale-up military operations within Kogi and its boundary states.

    He commended the troops and other security agents for their bravery and professionalism in conducting the rescue operation.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the six victims comprised four males and two females.

    A victim, Malam Adamu Zage, the Seriki Fulani, Asinwe community, commended the troops for coming to their aid.

    He expressed gratitude to God for their rescue and praised the bravery of the troops.

    “May God Almighty continue to help and protect the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies,” Zage prayed.

  • Army foils bandits’ planned massacre of villagers in Zamfara

    Army foils bandits’ planned massacre of villagers in Zamfara

    The Nigerian Army Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) have successfully foiled the bandits’ plan to attack villagers in Zamfara state.

    The troops neutralised dozens of terrorists in a coordinated air and ground assault at Gando Forest in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

    A statement by the information officer of the joint task force of OPFY Captain David Adewusi vowed to continuously hunt the terrorists and eliminate them anywhere they converged or moved until they were crushed in the North West and beyond.

    Read Also: Army kills terror ‘kingpin’, others

    “The OPFY Troops will continue to hunt the adversaries down anywhere they gather or move. The statement read.

    Captain Adewusi also said the operation followed a credible intelligence revealing the convergence of a large number of terrorists loyal to late Halilu Buzu and Alhaji Beti in the forest, where they were preparing to launch a reprisal attack on Bukkuyum farming communities in Zamfara state.

    “Intelligence gatherings indicated that the assault was aimed at avenging their recent defeat in clashes with security forces and hybrid units where they suffered serious defeats. The statement noted.

    The troops of OPFY under Sector 2 further intercepted and eliminated the fleeing terrorists attempting to escape from the scene of the aerial bombardment.

    The information officer, Captain Adewusi, also assures all law-abiding citizens that terrorists and other armed non-state actors will find no hiding place in the North West and parts of the North Central Zone.

    The Army also urged the residents to stand with security forces by reporting any suspicious activities immediately, as timely information is key to protecting communities and ending the menace of terrorism and banditry.

  • Army kills terror ‘kingpin’, others

    Army kills terror ‘kingpin’, others

    • Suspects arrested in coordinated strikes

    An alleged notorious terror commander Amirul Fiya (alias aka Abu Nazir) has been killed during operations by troops of 3 Battalion deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Rann Kala in Balge Local Government Area, Borno State.

    Fiya’s body was one of three the troops discovered after a gun duel with Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP/JAS) terrorists on August 7, who were attacking the community.

    In a statement, the acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Anele, said the troops at first light, discovered blood trails at the scene, indicating other terrorists escaped with injuries.

    She said the operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, one unexploded ordnance, two rocket-propelled grenades, and other items.

    “In a follow-up on 9 August, troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force/Hybrid Force, discovered another terrorist body and recovered one QJC 88-barrel gun, one AA gun tripod, 20 rounds of 12.7 x 108mm ammunition, a backpack, and a bicycle,” she said.

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    In Zamfara State, Anele said troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 2 responded to report on terrorist activities on Gusau–Kaura Namoda Road in Unguwar Sariki Musulmi, Kaura Namoda Local Government on August 8, which forced the criminals to flee abandoning two kidnapped victims that were rescued and reunited with their families.

    “Similarly, in Ebonyi State on 9 August 2025, troops of 24 Special Engineer Regiment intervened in a communal crisis between Iyimagwu and Ekpomaka communities in Ikwo LGA. The troops came under fire from an abandoned building and responded decisively, neutralising one armed criminal.

    “The operation yielded the recovery of one G3 rifle, 50 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 16 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and four hand grenades.

    “These successes underscore the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to defend the nation’s sovereignty, protect law-abiding citizens, and deny criminal elements the freed

  • We’re here to serve, defend you, Army spokeswoman assures  

    We’re here to serve, defend you, Army spokeswoman assures  

    The acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Anele, on Friday evening appealed to Nigerians to own the force, noting that they were out to serve and defend the people.

    She made the appeal during a parley with Defence Correspondents on Friday evening in Lagos- the first by any spokesperson for the Army in the past 14 years.

    Anele, who appreciated the job media practitioners do especially in shaping narratives, acknowledged the difficulties encountered in getting reactions/feedbacks or comments from military institutions when an issue occurs.

    She said: “There are times we have altercations with the larger society; we are Nigerians, and things do happen. We try to admonish our men as much as possible and make them realize that it is your tax that pays our salary.

    “We’re here to serve you, to defend you, and not to pick up arms, brutalize, or go against the general public. So please, help us to tell our story. I am always available as much as possible.”

    Responding to the usual unresponsiveness of military spokespersons when feedback is required, she said she would try as much as possible to be accessible in order to eradicate suspicions and speculations.

    “Most times, when it comes to the military, you hear things like, ‘All efforts to reach the DAPR proved abortive.’ These are the things we want to eradicate. 

    “If you don’t give the media your side of the story, they will tell it for you- and trust me, you will not like it,” she added.

    From the interaction, Lt.-Col. Anele has shown a commitment to bridging the information gap and fostering a more transparent, inclusive relationship, that would  enhance the public’s understanding and acceptance of the Army’s activities and initiatives.

    A graduate of Mass Communication with double Master’s degree, Anele emphasized the importance of effective communication and mutual understanding between the military and the media.

    Read Also: Suspects killed, weapons recovered as Army sustains counter terrorism

    She expressed dedication to maintaining open channels of communication, ensuring timely responses to inquiries, and providing accurate information to the public.

    The Nation reports that Anele joined the Army in 2007 through the Direct Regular Course 15 and has served in multiple strategic roles, including as Public Relations Officer in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff under retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai; Defence Space Administration, and in the Department of Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters.

    Her career trajectory also includes international peacekeeping experience with the United Nations in Darfur and professional trainings in Nigeria, Ghana, Sweden, Mali, and the United Kingdom. 

    She is a certified member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

    With her promise of accessibility, transparency, and stronger collaboration with journalists, the Army’s public relations machinery appears set for a new chapter in its relationship with the Nigerian public.

  • Army General urges Nigerian industries to fund university research for national devt

    Army General urges Nigerian industries to fund university research for national devt

    A senior Nigerian Army officer, Brigadier General Sikiru Adepoju Mohammed, has called on industries across the country to begin actively funding university-led research aimed at solving sector-specific challenges.

    He warned that the widening disconnect between academia and industry remains a major barrier to Nigeria’s national development goals.

    General Mohammed made the call in Calabar while delivering the keynote address at the 2025 International Conference on Engineering, Science and Technology (ICEST), organised by the Faculty of Engineering, University of Cross River State (UNICROSS).

    The three-day event, themed “Convergence of AI, Digital Economy and Decarbonization: Engineering Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future”, brought together leading researchers, policymakers, and industrial stakeholders to chart a path for technological advancement and sustainable innovation.

    In his keynote presentation titled “Emerging Technologies and Digital Economy: Sustainable STEM Practices in Focus”, General Mohammed stressed the need for industries to stop relying solely on government initiatives and begin investing in practical, problem-solving academic research that directly addresses their operational needs.

    “There’s no better time than now for Nigerian industries to fund targeted university research that addresses the unique problems they face,” he said. “That is how innovation grows, and that is how nations develop.”

    Read Also: Reps panel urges DSS, Army to grant access to terrorism suspect Danladi

    He emphasised that the digital economy Nigeria envisions cannot materialise while engineering education remains largely theoretical. “Industries must invest in research. Universities must build functional labs. And together, we must deliver innovation that solves African problems,” he added.

    General Mohammed also urged engineering faculties to integrate structured, hands-on learning into all academic levels. “Universities need to stop producing engineers who have never used a screwdriver. Practicality must return to our classrooms,” he said.

    Challenging the academic sector to break from tradition, he encouraged the adoption of systems thinking and interdisciplinary approaches as essential tools for navigating the age of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

    The Army officer also shared key innovations from the Emerging Technologies Research Hub under his leadership, spotlighting real-life projects developed by students under his mentorship. Despite his military and academic commitments, he reaffirmed his passion for supporting young talent, including pupils and high school students.

    General Mohammed, who holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Leeds, further educated participants on the technology life cycle and the importance of knowing when to pursue in-house development versus adopting external solutions.

    He also highlighted essential tools for modern engineering practice, such as Power BI, 3D Printing, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and operations research software.

    In his closing remarks, he commended the organisers of ICEST 2025 for fostering a critical interface between science, policy, and industry, and thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for granting him the approval to participate.

    Currently serving as Director of Logistics at the National Defence College, Brigadier General Mohammed is a chartered engineer and a fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), UK. His career spans key roles, including Military Plant Representative in Ukraine, Director at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, and Senior Lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

  • Suspects killed, weapons recovered as Army sustains counter terrorism

    Suspects killed, weapons recovered as Army sustains counter terrorism

    Two suspected terror kingpins have been killed, 11 others arrested, and gun-running syndicates dismantled by troops of the Nigerian Army in several precision-led operations this month.

    The spokeswoman for the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, stated this to reporters yesterday.

    According to Anele, the successes were recorded by troops across theatres of operations, adding that they marked decisive gains in the army’s campaign against terrorism and other emerging security threats.

    Read Also: Army, DSS-backed Hybrid Forces, kill 45 bandits in Niger

    “The operations resulted in the neutralisation of two terrorists, arrest of 11 suspects, voluntary surrender of two terrorist family members, and the recovery of arms, logistics, and rustled livestock,” she said.

    Giving a breakdown, Anele said troops of 8 Division Garrison in Sokoto State deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Tsamaye and Mai Lalle, Sabon Birni Local Government Area, engaged armed elements in a fierce firefight, which led to the death of two terror suspects.