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Tag: boko haram

  • Boko Haram: Buhari, other leaders draw new war plan

    Nigeria rallies Cameroon, Chad, Niger against insurgents

    U.S. orders fighter jets for Nigeria

    A fresh onslaught against Boko Haram is on the way.

    President Muhammadu Buhari was in N’djamena, capital of the Republic of Chad yesterday to rally his colleagues for the task at a one-day consultation with Heads of State and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC).

    The meeting was called to address the recent upsurge in terrorist activities in the region. Set for the new assault against insurgents, particularly Boko Haram, are Chad, Niger Republic, and Republic of Cameroon.

    ”Times as these call for quick interventions and measures,” President Buhari stated, adding:

    ”As you are aware and have witnessed in recent times, there are new developments of security concern in our sub-region. The region in the recent past has witnessed increasing attacks, particularly on military formations by elements of the Boko Haram terrorists as well as the renewed kidnapping of people. These activities are aimed at weakening our collective resolve to eradicate them from the region.

    ”We must not cave in. The group’s renewed strategy of increasingly mining the general area as well as its recent deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance activities have proved to be critical factors in the resurgence of attacks in the region.”

    Commending what he called the “untiring efforts” of the leadership of the LCBC, and officers and men of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), President Buhari noted that the efforts of those who strive to bring peace and stability to the region would never be forgotten.

    ”We are committed to ensuring that the ideals of restoring peace, stability and viability of the Lake Chad Region to its glorious state, for which some of you have paid the ultimate price is attained,” he said.

    President Buhari, in a statement by his spokesperson , Femi Adesina, said: “We must not relent and allow the enemies of the region to succeed in their quest to destabilize the area. We must reinvigorate our collective will and commitment towards eradicating terrorism from our region.

    ”We must remain focused and true to ensuring sustainable development. To this end, I have requested that bilateral and multilateral platforms of engagements by member countries affected by the conflict be revamped to ensure collective actions towards stamping out the remnants of the terrorists from the region.

    Read also: ‘Our successes still manifest despite Metele setback’

    ”There is no gainsaying that also fueling the crisis are the twin menaces of poverty and the continued shrinkage of the Lake Chad, which have rendered the people of the region vulnerable to terrorist activities. Attention is drawn to the Lake and its resources, which have always been the source of livelihood for the millions of people that live within and around the basin.”

    He urged the Presidents and Heads of Governments to make concerted efforts to ensure the actualisation of efforts to recharge the Lake, through Inter-Basin Water Transfer, from the Congo Basin.

    Buhari stressed that if meticulously pursued, the project “has the capacity to unlock the economic potentials and provide solutions to the myriad of interrelated challenges confronting the region.”

    As chairman of the Summit of Heads of State and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, Buhari assured of his commitment to providing the required leadership and direction for the actualisation of peace and security in the area.

    He reiterated an earlier promise he made to troops fighting terrorism: “We are committed to ensuring you have the requisite and enabling equipment to optimally function. Your welfare is, and would continue to remain our priority. Together, we shall restore the Lake Chad Region to its glorious days.”

    At the meeting were President Idris Deby Itno (Chad), President Mahamadou Issoufou  (Niger Republic) and Prime Minister of Cameroon Philemon Yang, who represented President Paul Biya.

    In a joint communique, the Heads of State and Governments, resolved to change the modus operandi, collaborate more, and renew assault on all forms of terrorism and criminal acts, till wholesome peace was restored to the region.

     

    U.S. govt places order for Nigeria’s Super Tucano aircraft 

    The United States Department of Defence has awarded the contract for the manufacturing of 12 A-29 Super Tucano combat aircraft on behalf of the Nigerian Air Force.

    The contract was awarded to Sierra Nevada Corporation, an American aerospace contractor, for an initial sum of $329 million. A clause, described as “undefinitised contract action (UCA)”, was, however, added that the contract sum could be varied, but not exceeding $344.7 million.

    A defence contracting explainer said the UCA involves contracts whose terms, specifications, or price are not agreed upon before work commences, an online report said.

    This could be because the negotiation of a definitive contract action is not possible in sufficient time to meet the government’s requirements or a government’s interest demands that the contractor be given a binding commitment so that contract performance can begin immediately, and shall be as complete and definite as practicable under the particular circumstances.

    Six of the aircraft would be equipped with Forward Looking Infrared System, a technology that senses radiation which is then converted to video output.

    As part of the contract for the 12 Super Tucano combat jetliners, the Nigerian Air Force would receive ground training devices, mission planning systems, mission debrief systems, spares, ground support equipment and alternate mission equipment, the U.S. defence department said.

    There would also be a contiguous U.S. interim contractor support, outside of continental U.S. (OCONUS) contractor logistic support, and five field service representatives for OCONUS support for three years, the U.S. Defence Department said.

    The aircraft would be built in Jacksonville, Florida, southeastern United States, and is expected to be completed May 2024.”Foreign military sales funds in the amount of $220,167,735 are being obligated at the time of award,” the department added.

    President Muhammadu Buhari placed order for the aircraft in April, following extensive discussions with the U.S. government that led to the relaxing of a moratorium placed on military equipment sales to Nigeria.

    President Buhari said the procurement would help strengthen Nigeria’s national security, as well as timely end to the Boko Haram war.The Nigerian government transferred $469.4 million to the U.S. government in April, according to a letter he wrote to the National Assembly.

    Lawmakers immediately rejected the move, saying the president flouted the Nigerian Constitution in paying such humongous amount to procure equipment from a another country with appropriation.

    The president described what he did as granting “anticipatory approval” for an expenditure, a term the lawmakers argued was strange to the Nigerian Constitution and the principles of separation of powers.

    During the heated debates about the contract in April, a U.S. senior diplomat in Nigeria briefed reporters in Lagos, telling them, amongst other key benefits of the contract, that the Super Tucanos would be delivered by 2020, a claim that was then regurgitated by Buhari administration officials.

    It was not immediately clear whether the Federal Government was aware the project would not be delivered until 2024, six years away, but went ahead with the narrative that it would come by 2020, anyway.

    Also it was unclear why the contract was being awarded for $344 million (N125.3 billion) when Buhari said he transferred over $469 million (N168.8 billion) to the U.S. for the aircraft.

    That leaves a difference of N43.5 billion yet unaccounted for.

     

  • Buhari seeks renewed support against terror

     Leaders resolve to change modus operandi against Boko Haram, others 

    Towards checking insurgency in Nigeria and the neighboring countries, President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday called for renewed commitment by the Heads of State and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC).
    He made the call during a one-day consultation with Heads of State and Governments of the  LCBC in N’djamena, capital of the Republic of Chad.
    A statement by the Special Adviser on Media and publicity, Femi Adesina, said that the meeting was called to address the recent upsurge in terrorist activities in the region.
    According to him, Buhari rallied his colleagues from Chad, Niger Republic, and Republic of Cameroon to a fresh onslaught against insurgents, particularly the Boko Haram group.
    Buhari said “Times as these call for quick interventions and measures.
    “As you are aware and have witnessed in recent times, there are new developments of security concern in our sub-region. The region in the recent past has witnessed increasing attacks, particularly on military formations by elements of the Boko Haram terrorists as well as the renewed kidnapping of people.
    “These activities are aimed at weakening our collective resolve to eradicate them from the region.
    “We must not cave in. The group’s renewed strategy of increasingly mining the general area as well as its recent deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance activities have proved to be critical factors in the resurgence of attacks in the region.” he said.

    Read Also: Buhari orders troops to wipe out Boko Haram

    Commending what he called the “untiring efforts” of the leadership of the LCBC, and officers and men of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), President Buhari noted that the efforts of those who strive to bring peace and stability to the region would never be forgotten.
    “We are committed to ensuring that the ideals of restoring peace, stability and viability of the Lake Chad Region to its glorious state, for which some of you have paid the ultimate price is attained,” he vowed.
    He added “We must not relent and allow the enemies of the region to succeed in their quest to destabilize the area. We must reinvigorate our collective will and commitment towards eradicating terrorism from our region.
    “We must remain focused and true to ensuring sustainable development. To this end, I have requested that bilateral and multilateral platforms of engagements by member countries affected by the conflict be revamped to ensure collective actions towards stamping out the remnants of the terrorists from the region.
    “There is no gainsaying that also fueling the crisis are the twin menaces of poverty and the continued shrinkage of the Lake Chad, which have rendered the people of the region vulnerable to terrorist activities.
    “Attention is drawn to the Lake and its resources, which have always been the source of livelihood for the millions of people that live within and around the basin.”
    He charged the Presidents and Heads of Governments in attendance to make concerted efforts to ensure the actualization of efforts to recharge the Lake, through Inter-Basin Water Transfer, from the Congo Basin.
    President Buhari stressed that if meticulously pursued, the project “has the capacity to unlock the economic potentials and provide solutions to the myriad of interrelated challenges confronting the region.”
    As Chairman of the Summit of Heads of State and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, President Buhari assured of his commitment to providing the required leadership and direction for the actualization of peace and security in the area.
    He reiterated an earlier promise he had made to troops fighting terrorism: “We are committed to ensuring you have the requisite and enabling equipment to optimally function. Your welfare is, and would continue to remain our priority. Together, we shall restore the Lake Chad Region to its glorious days.”
    In attendance at the consultation, apart from the Nigerian President, were, President Idris Deby Itno of Chad, President Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger Republic, and Prime Minister of Cameroon, Philemon Yang, who represented President Paul Biya.
    In a joint communique, the Heads of State and Governments, resolved to change modus operandi, collaborate more, and renew assault on all forms of terrorism and criminal acts, till wholesome peace was restored to the region.

     

  • Boko Haram Insurgency: President Buhari heads to Chad

    President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday departed Abuja for N’Djamena, Chad, to preside over the Summit of Heads of States and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Buhari, in his capacity as Chairman of the Summit of Heads of States and Governments of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), summoned the meeting meant to find lasting solution to the menace of Boko Haram insurgency.

    Mr Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, in a statement in Abuja said the meeting of the Heads of States and Governments of the LCBC would take place in N’Djamena, Chad on Thursday.

    Also, the President of Benin Republic, a troops-contributing country, has also been invited to attend the meeting.

    The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and national operations of the affected countries have appreciably degraded the capacity of Boko Haram terrorists, although the insurgents still retain the capacity to attack isolated targets in desperate search for supplies.

    According to Adesina, the one-day meeting will review the security situation in the areas affected by Boko Haram insurgency.

    He said it would also adopt measures to enhance the capacity of the MNJTF to meet the challenges of securing the areas.

    Read Also: Metele Attack: 23 soldiers killed, Boko Haram uses drones-Buratai

    “The presidents of the LCBC member countries of Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and the Central African Republic have been invited to attend the meeting.

    “The President of Benin Republic, a troops-contributing country has also been invited to attend.

    “The MNJTF and the national operations of the affected countries have appreciably degraded the capacity of Boko Haram terrorists, although the insurgents still retain the capacity to attack isolated targets in desperate search for supplies,’’ Adesina said.

    Millions of people in Africa’s Lake Chad region (north-east Nigeria and parts of Niger, Chad and Cameroon) are facing a profound and protracted crisis driven by extreme poverty, climate change and violent conflicts according to the UN.

    The crisis, the world body added has led to the internal displacement of 2.4 million people, the destruction of livelihoods, human rights abuses, and the disruption of health, education and other basic services.

    More than 10 million vulnerable people need life-saving assistance and protection today. Women and children are particularly hard hit.

    In Feb. 2017, a conference on the Lake Chad region, co-hosted by Germany, Nigeria, Norway, and the United Nations took place in Oslo where donors pledged 672 million dollars to emergency assistance and support in 2017 and beyond.

  • Buhari orders troops to wipe out Boko Haram

    The President was yesterday in Maiduguri, the engine-room of the Boko Haram war, to cheer up the injured and reassure others that he is committed to their mission – wiping out the insurgents.

    The army suffered some losses — 23 dead and 31 injured — in Metele on November 18. Lawmakers are planning to probe the funding of the war.

    President Muhammadu Buhari, at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Hospital in the Borno State capital, saw injured soldiers on their beds. He comforted them and stressed the fact that their sacrifice was well appreciated, The Nation learnt.

    The Commander-In-Chief was in the city to open the Chief of Army Staff’s yearly conference.

    He assured the troops of Operation Lafiya Dole  of support to defeat Boko Haram and other security threats.

    The President praised the army for stabilising security in the Niger Delta and curtailing clashes between farmers and herdsmen in some parts of the country.

    The President, at the conference, noted the “operational losses” in Northern Borno.

    He advised the troops not to be distracted but to focus on wiping out Boko Haram.

    He said: “The effort of the military has also stabilised the security situation in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country and curtailed the clashes between herdsmen and farmers.

    ”I must commend the selfless sacrifices of our Armed Forces, especially the heroic officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army who by virtue of their commitment to operations all over the country have brought about the desired peace.

    Read also: Fighting the Boko Haram scourge

    ”There has been a remarkable improvement in the security situation in the Northeast since 2015 when this administration came into government and you are a major part of the successes that have been achieved.

    ”I am, of course, aware that in the recent months and in recent days, there have been some operational losses in the northern part of Borno State, particularly in Jilli, Arege and Metele.

    ”I know that you are doing your best to reverse this trend and I want to assure you that no effort will be spared in providing the necessary support you require to complete the task. We remain committed to ending the crisis in the Northeast and making the entire area safe for all. I urge you all to keep up the good work.

    “I am also painfully aware that some gallant officers and soldiers have paid the supreme price in the course of these anti-terrorist operations. While we remember them and mourn with their loved ones, I must also convey the deep gratitude of the government and people of Nigeria to the late soldiers and their families for their heroic sacrifices.

    Our thoughts and prayers are also with all other victims of Boko Haram’s atrocities and their families,” President Buhari said.

    He praised the professionalism the army and other security agencies employed to unravel the mysterious death of Maj.-Gen. Idris Alkali, stressing that the perpetrators of the heinous act must be brought to book.

    “Let me also commend you all for the professional manner with which the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, unravelled the perpetrators involved in the disappearance of late Maj.-Gen. Idris Alkali. This attests to the capabilities that exist in our security apparatus. I want to assure you that the perpetrators will be brought to book. May his gentle soul and the souls of our departed gallant troops rest in perfect peace,” Buhari said.

    The President, observing the importance of the theme of the conference, praised the army for shifting the conference from Benin to Maiduguri, stressing that the officers and soldiers who are fighting against terrorism in the Northeast deserve all the attention our country’s leadership can demonstrate to them.

    “As President of the country, I am determined to ensure that every citizen feels safe and secure in all parts of the country. To achieve this, the security agencies must rise to the challenge and curb threats to security in our country.”

    ”The Armed Forces play a critical role in safeguarding the country, hence you must all ensure that your plans and programmes meet the challenges we face.

    ”To this end, I am glad that this conference is holding at this time, because it serves as a platform to assess and evaluate your performance for the Year 2018.”

    Buhari observed that the army have kept to one of the cardinal objectives of his administration  – security –  which according to him, has  ”led to the dislodgement of insurgents from areas hitherto viewed as their strongholds, rescue of abducted persons, return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)  and the gradual return to normalcy in the Northeast”.

    To boost the morale of the troops, the President announced: “I will be visiting some of our injured troops in hospitals and also talk to others at their bases to assure them of our continued support. It is a must win war. I want to encourage our troops not to be distracted by whatever speculations but to remain focused and committed to the task of eliminating Boko Haram from the face of earth.

    “I want to reassure you that as your Commander-in-Chief, I will do everything within my powers to continue empowering you by providing all the necessary equipment, force multipliers and enablers required for you to prevail on the field. I also want you to be aware that I am currently looking into measures to improve your entitlements and welfare generally.”

    Dwelling on the theme of the conference which is “Optimising the operational efficiency of the Nigerian Army towards safeguarding democracy and national security in Nigeria”, the President said: “The Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding democracy is appropriately captured in the theme of the conference”.

    He told members of the Armed Forces to be non-partisan in next year’s elections.

    His words: “As we approach the 2019 general elections, I want to urge all members of the Armed Forces to live up to their responsibilities and remain non-partisan. In addition, you must all remain vigilant throughout the electioneering period and alongside other security agencies, prevent every form of violence that could disrupt the process in line with your rules of engagement.”

    The President praised the army in mainstreaming human rights in its operation. This, he said, has reduced the allegations against them.

    ”The Nigerian Army has enriched her corporate identity, organisational commitment and responsiveness. I also wish to acknowledge the drastic reduction in human rights allegations against the Nigerian Army.

    “I urge you to continue to ensure that all troops remain committed to the observance of all International Human Rights Laws and Laws of Armed Conflict”.

    The President recalled the objectives of his administration, saying: “Let me remind the audience that the cardinal objectives of this administration remain the entrenchment of security, restructuring the economy and the fight against corruption, to ensure a steady, sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

    “In addition, our commitment to entrenching purposeful and accountable leadership remains firm because it is the base from which peace, security and national development would be built on.

    “I therefore wish to reiterate that leaders of all strata of society, including our Armed Forces, must embrace the wind of CHANGE that is blowing across the country for good. There must be cooperation at inter-service and inter-agency levels.

    “To this end, the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs must work closely together as well as with other security agencies to improve on strategies that will defeat terrorism, militancy and other forms of criminal activities in our country.

    ”As you appraise your activities for the Year 2018, concentrate on the contemporary security challenges facing our nation and proffer ways of surmounting the challenges. I am convinced that this conference will renew the vigour and dedication, for which the Nigerian Army is known.

    ”I have gone through the conference programme and it is my belief that the conference will be worthwhile if your deliberations generate new strategies that would strengthen stability in the country.”

    In his opening remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, thanked the President for his support to the army and other security forces in the fight against insurgency.

    Gen Buratai pledged the commitment of the army to flushing out Boko Haram in the Northeast and other forms of criminalities in the country.

    Host Governor Kashim Shettima praised the gallant troops for their fight against Boko Haram. He called on politicians to stop grandstanding, even as he admitted that there were challenges.

     

    President meets Lake Chad Basin Heads of State today

    President Muhammadu Buhari will today consult with Heads of State and Government of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) in his capacity as chairman of the Summit of the Commission.

    The meeting is billed for N’Djamena, the Chadian capital.

    The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Asesina, said the one-day meeting is to review the security situation in the areas affected by Boko Haram insurgency and adopt measures to enhance the capacity of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to meet the challenges of securing the areas.

    The presidents of the LCBC member countries of Chad, Cameroon, Niger and the Central African Republic are to attend the meeting.

    The President of Benin Republic, a troops-contributing country, has also been invited to attend.

    The Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the national operations of the affected countries have appreciably degraded the capacity of Boko Haram terrorists, although the insurgents still retain the capacity to attack isolated targets in desperate search for supplies.

  • Fighting the Boko Haram scourge

    IR: It is a public knowledge that Boko Haram is perhaps one, if not the most disturbing security issue facing Nigeria at the moment. On daily basis, media reports on wanton carnage orchestrated by the sect members, who have become death merchants, abound.

    North-eastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, are the worst hit in terms of the staggering level of havoc visited by the heinous activities of the insurgents.

    Notable Nigerians, had in the past, escaped death by whiskers. This is after suicide-bombers made daring attempts to annihilate them. The late Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, had Almighty Allah to thank after he miraculously escaped an assassination attack, in 2013; days after commemorating his 50th anniversary on throne as Kano’s paramount monarch.

    The city of Kano, in the previous administration, eternally became engulfed in trepidation as young girls who were brainwashed, executed deadly bombing missions, mostly on congregation of Friday prayer worshippers.

    It would be recalled that on January 20, 2012, there were coordinated bomb attacks in Kano metropolis.

    Back then, sources claimed that the death toll rose above 185, saying that 150 civilians and over 32 police officers, were gruesomely killed during the multiple death ‘festivals’ organized by agents of the Boko Haram.

    Internally Displaced Persons or simply IDPs, is another lexicon that has crept into our polity, no thanks to the Boko Haram. Aged women, young ladies, nursing mothers and vulnerable children have become refugees in their fatherland, with no hope for a better, sustainable and guaranteed future.

    As IDPs who have lost everything of their worldly possessions, they are forced to relocate to ramshackle tents and dilapidated school buildings, to begin a new life of misery, anguish, hopelessness, wretchedness, squalor and haplessness. To worsen their terrifying plights, relief materials donated by foreign and national emergency organisations, are brazenly and shamelessly diverted into private pockets by some government officials.

    Boko Haram’s mass abduction of over 270 girls from Government Girls Secondary School in Borno on 14 April, 2014, right after the bomb explosion that rocked the Nyanya Motor Park in Nasarawa State, was the one that generated the most intense global outrage.

    The unsavoury tales of the insurgents’ genocidal ‘war’ should be enough at this critical juncture. Nigerians, are worriedly concerned, hence they are asking the government to expedite action in taming Boko Haram, which has become a Frankenstein monster.

    To this end, the need to overhaul the nation’s security architecture and enhance the level of intelligence gathering by various security agencies cannot be overemphasized. But even more germane will be that troops at the theatre of war in the Northeast be adequately motivated. They can only be able to crush their menacing insurgent-foes, once and for all, if they are equipped with advanced and state of the art modern weaponry. Otherwise, winning the insurgency battle in Nigeria will remain a mission impossible.

     

    • Abdulhameed Yushau, Bayero University Kano (BUK)

  • Buhari orders military to end Boko Haram threat, returns from Maiduguri

    President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Abuja from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he  ordered the military to eliminate all threats of Boko Haram, declaring that the war against terrorism is “a must win’’.

    Buhari gave the order while declaring open the 2018 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.

    President Buhari said: “It is a must win war. I want to encourage our troops not to be distracted by speculations but remain focused and committed to the task of eliminating Boko Haram from the surface of the earth.’’

    He assured the military that his administration would continue to address their needs in terms of manpower development and equipment supply, promising that their welfare and entitlements will also be improved.

    “I want to reassure you that as your Commander-In-Chief, I will do everything within my power to continue empowering you by providing all the necessary equipment, force multipliers and enablers required for you to prevail on the field.

    “I also want you to be aware that I am currently looking into measures to improve your entitlements and welfare generally,’’ he added.

    The President commended the efforts and sacrifices of the military in safeguarding the peace, security and territorial integrity of the country.

    According to him, the officers and men who are fighting against the curse of terrorism in the North East deserve all the attention the country’s leadership can give them.

    “As President of the country, I am determined to ensure that every citizen feels safe and secure in all parts of the country. To achieve this, the security agencies must rise to the challenge and curb threats to security in our country,’’ he added.

    President Buhari called on the armed forces to embrace “the wind of change that is blowing across the country,” urging more cooperation at inter-service and inter-agency levels.

    “To this end, the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs must work closely together as well as with other security agencies to improve on strategies that will defeat terrorism, militancy and other forms of criminal activities in our country.’’

    The President, who also addressed officers and men of the Nigerian Army at the Maimalari Barrack, headquarters of Operation Lafiya-Dole, said he shared in the agony of loss of gallant soldiers.

    “I have come to pay homage to the gallant soldiers lost by the nation and to console the injured ones in recent terrorist attacks.

    “I urge you to remain focused and win the war,’’ the President said.

    He also commended Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding democracy and urged them to remain committed to their profession.

    He said: “As we approach the 2019 General Elections, I want to urge all members of the Armed Forces to live up to their responsibilities and remain non-partisan.

    “In addition, you must all remain vigilant throughout the electioneering period and alongside other security agencies, prevent every form of violence that could disrupt the process in line with your Rules of Engagement.’’

    President Buhari urged the soldiers, who were on parade, to always show disciplined conduct.

    According to the president, no matter how equipped the military is, the military is of no use if it doesn’t have discipline.

    He, therefore, urged them to uphold the tenets of the constitution and ensure tight security to protect lives and property.

    In his statement at the conference, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai said internal security had greatly improved from what it was in 2015 when President Buhari assumed office.

    Buratai said a new proactive strategy would be put in place to counter the recent military losses.

    He said the army remains neutral and non-partisan and would carry out its  constitutional duty of safeguarding the nation’s democracy.

    The Minister of Defence, Brig. Gen.  Mansur Dan Ali (rtd) assured the President that the military was putting in place new strategies to stabilize the country.

    President Buhari asked for a minute’s silence in memory of the gallant soldiers and before his departure, he went round the wards to visit wounded soldiers in the hospital within the army barracks.

    He gave assurances that the soldiers would be taken care of.

    At the Palace of Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, President Buhari said his administration would do everything to secure the country.

    He commiserated with all Nigerians who lost loved ones following recent setbacks in the fight against terrorists.

    “We have to remind ourselves where we were and where we are now and what happened in between. The people of Borno State know what we did in the last three years. The situation would have been worse,” he said.

    President Buhari also expressed his determination to change the unemployment situation of youths in the country.

    He pointed out that “Jobs for the young persons, especially those who are 30 and below in Borno State and across the federation continue to engage our attention. We go to bed with it and wake up with it.”

    In his remarks, the Shehu of Borno, who spoke on behalf of the State’s Council of Chiefs, thanked the President for bringing peace to the state, and asked for intensive security patrols across the territories to save people from attacks on farms.(NAN)

  • Buhari reiterates commitment toward improved welfare for Army

    President Muhammadu Burhari on Wednesday reiterated his commitment to improve the welfare of Nigerian Army to enable them discharge their constitutional mandate of protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.

    Buhari gave the assurance while addressing troops at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.

    He said the troops were always on his mind, adding that he had always woken up thinking about them and the conditions they operated.

    “I will support you to play your constitutional role of defending the integrity of the country from both internal and external forces.
    “This is the oath you have taken just as I took an oath as the President and Commander-In-Chief.

    “I assure you that I go to bed and always wake up thinking about you and the conditions under which you operate.

    “Please, maintain your loyalty and defend the country. Whatever happens, a military no matter how equip or how well led, without discipline is no use to the country,’’ he said.

    Read ALso: PHOTOS: Buhari arrives Maiduguri for COAS conference

    While commending the troops over their gallantry and sacrifices, Buhari urged them to increase their commitment in engaging the outlaw Boko Haram insurgents, without further delay.

    He said plans were on to adopt a new enhanced salary structure for the military in recognition of their contributions to security, social and economic development of the country.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the president also visit injured troops on admission at the Military Medical Centre. Maimalari Barracks, Maiduguri.

    Buhari had earlier inaugurated the 2018 Chief of Army Staff (COAS) conference and paid courtesy visit on the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Garbai Elkanemi.

  • Tight security in Maiduguri as Buhari visits

    Security has been beefed up in Maiduguri and environs as President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to visit the town to declare open the Fourth Quarter Chief of Army Staff Conference.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that this is first time the president will be gracing the quarterly chief of army staff conference since he assumed office.

    The quarterly conference is used to review army’s activities, including operations and exercises with a view to improve on them.

    Read Also: Buhari cancels private visit to Daura

    The president is also expected to use occasion to address troops on the frontline in the North East and assured the people of the region of his administration determination to prosecute the counter insurgency to logical conclusion.

    The president expected visit is being interpreted as meal booster for officers and soldiers in the aftermath of killing of a number of soldiers at Metele in Northern Borno, by the Boko Haram terrorists group.

  • Troops repell Boko Haram attack in Kukawa

    The Nigerian Army said its troops repelled Boko Haram insurgents’ attack in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno.

    The army said in its twitter handle that the troops repelled the insurgents’ attack while attempting to infiltrate Cross-Kauwa in Kukawa at about 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

    It added that it would provide details on the  attack later.

    Read also: Reps to probe funding of war against Boko Haram

    “Troops of 157 Strike Force Battalion at about 8 p.m. today (Nov. 27) 2018; repelled some elements of Boko Haram terrorists who attempted to infiltrate Cross-Kauwa in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno, details later,” the army wrote. (NAN)

  • Reps to probe funding of war against Boko Haram

    The House of Representatives yesterday resolved to investigate the Federal Government under the watch of President Muhammadu Buhari and his predecessor, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, over the funding of the war against Boko Haram.

    Members of the Green Chamber expressed their frustration over the failure of the military to rein in the insurgents.

    They said military intelligence failed the country.

    The lawmakers expressed sadness over the attack on a military formation in Metele, Borno State by the insurgents.

    Deputy Minority Leader Onyema Chukwuka said that soldiers died in the attack.

    The lawmakers urged the Army to publish the names of the fallen heroes after consultation with their families.

    The decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance by Chukwuka, who, relying on  reports, said the insurgents carted away  weapons from the Melete Army base.

    He said: “While the news of the attack and death toll continued to increase, neither the President nor Commander-in-Chief, and the minister of Defence or the army authorities said anything about the report as there was silence for more than five days.

    “The President and C-in-C finally broke his silence six days after the attack in a statement issued on his behalf but it is regrettable that in the last one year, no fewer than 600 soldiers have been killed by insurgents, mostly in Bomo State around the fringes of the Lake Chad.

    “Recall that on June 18, a Boko Haram attack in Gajiram, Bomo State, led to the death of civilians and soldiers and on July 13, Boko Haram ambushed and killed soldiers at Alagaye village, near Bama, Borno State and carted away nine gun trucks.

    “On July 14, Boko Haram attacked the 81 Division Forward Brigade at Jilli village in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State and killed scores of soldiers; on August 30, Boko Haram attacked an army formation at Zari village, also in Bomo State, killing not no fewer than 48 soldiers and many others are still missing aside equipment losses; and on September 8, the 82 Division Task Force in Gudumbali, Bomo State was attacked, many soldiers killed and equipment carted away.

    “It is equally regrettable that while the executive said and continued to insist that Boko Haram terrorists had been “technically defeated”, or “technically degraded”, the insurgents seem to be waxing  even stronger and stronger day-in-day-out, such that they recently attached a community just 20 kilometre from Maiduguri, the Bomo State capital.

    “Twice in three years, the Commander-in-Chief gave directives to the service chiefs to permanently relocate to the Theatre Command Center in Maiduguri until Boko Haram is defeated.

    “With the recent development in the North, all the successes and gains made against Boko Haram have been reversed, regrettably.”

    Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje (PDP, Abia)  suggested that Nigeria should enter into an air support agreement with her neighbours “so that when the need arises, the Nigerian Air Force can respond to crisis from the closest points within minutes, even from the neighboring countries.”

    She also emphasised the need for a change in the orientation and curriculum of the military from one that aims to take over territories to the modern-day conventional and unconventional warfare.

    Aminu Shagari (APC, Sokoto) said President Buhari, being a military General, was not expected to fail on security issues, not to talk of not being able to suppress a religious insurgency.

    Recalling that former President Shehu Shagari quelled Maitatsine insurgents despite being a civilian, Shagari said: “I expect nothing less than total decimation of Boko Haram but here we are today with no serious efforts by the military to arrest the situation. Where has all the monies appropriated to fight this insurgency gone?”

    Edward Pwajok (APC, Plateau) complained about lack of synergy within the military authorities and the failure of military intelligence characterised by lack of inter-agency information sharing.

    He wondered why Buhari failed to sanction or remove the Service chiefs who, in his view, had obviously failed in their responsibility of protecting the people. He called for the investigation of funds disbursed to prosecute the terror war.

    Zakari Mohammed (PDP, Kwara) said rather than cooperate and share information, the military preferred competing amongst themselves.

    Accusing the House Standing Committees on Military of failing to comprehensively carry out their oversight  function and ask necessary questions, Mohammed urged the President to be more proactive on the issue.

    He also urged the government and the military in particular to invest more in technology to fight the modern unconventional insurgents.

    Alleging that Boko Haram was taking over territories, Mohammed Sani Abdul (APC, Bauchi, said that the Nigerian Army could not evacuate its corpses from Melete because Boko Haram has taken over the camp.

    To Abdulsamad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto), who is also the Navy  Committee Chairman, the number of the military personnel in the country is grossly inadequate.

    They are less than 300,000, he claimed, adding that the recruitment into the military in the last three years left much to be desired.

    He identified lack of technology as a big issue in the efficiency of the military

    Aliu Magaji (APC, Jigawa) advised the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Yusuf Buratai to provide Nigerians with the real news rather than threatening those he targeted as fake news peddlers.

    Beni Lar (PDP, Plateau) urged the President to sack the Service chiefs for what he called poor performance.

    Mohammed Bago (APC, Niger) spoke in a similar vein.

    Speaker Yakubu Dogara said queried the porosity of the Nigerian borders if Cameroun and Chad.

    He wondered if the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), operating along the borders, had collapsed.