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Tag: Borno State

  • Troops neutrilise four terrorists in Borno

    Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole have neutrilized four Boko Haram Terrorists in their hideout in Makinta Meleri, Borno State, the Nigerian Army announced yesterday.

    According to the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Ado Isa, the troops also recovered arms from the terrorists.

    A statement signed by Colonel Isa reads : “Troops of 7 Division Nigerian Army in Operation Lafiya Dole,  based on credible information today conducted a clearance operation on suspected Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) hideout along Makinta Meleri in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.

    Read also: Buhari group to Nigerians: don’t toy with your destiny

    ”During the operation, the gallant troops neutralised four terrorists and recovered 4 AK-47 rifles with registration numbers 58012289, 565240898 and 58006027, respectively.

    ”They also recovered 3 rifle magazines containing 32 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition and 3 Bicycles.

  • Shettima promotes three emirs in Borno

    Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima has promoted three second class emirs for promoting peace and unity in their domains.

    The governor said they have become first-class emirs.

    Those promoted include emirs of Shani, Uba and Gwoza.

    Shettima, who is on a tour of southern Borno as part of the APC campaign in the state, also presented the emirs with their staff of office amidst pump and pageantry of their subjects.

    On Thursday, the governor issued the staff of office to the Emir of Uba while a similar event took place on Tuesday for the Emir in Shani.

    The Emir of Gwoza is expected to get his staff of office on Saturday.

    Read Also: Borno, Yobe cholera-free

    The Nation checks revealed  the Alhaji Muhammad Nasiru Mailafiya assumed office as Emir  in January, 2014 as second class Emir following the death of his father, while the Alhaji Ali Ibn Ismaila Mamza II also  assumed office in 2011 as second class Emir of UBA  to succeed his late father.

    Governor Shettima is expected to tour projects and meet with people in Lass and Askira, the headquarters of Askira-Uba local government area before leaving the local government area for Gwoza and other parts of southern Borno.

  • Borno, Yobe cholera-free

    Borno and Yobe States have declared closures of cholera outbreaks without any recorded suspected case since December 4 and 14, 2018.

    Announcing the outbreak closures on Tuesday in Maiduguri and Damaturu, the Commissioners of Health, Drs. Salihu Bura and Muhammed Kawuwa said they have not recorded any new cases of cholera for two weeks.

    Bura, who was represented by permanent secretary, Ministry of Health, Alhaji Bukar Allau said: “It is almost four weeks since the last case was reported in Borno state. The last case was reported on December 14, 2018,

    “When the number of suspected cases significantly declines and all samples from suspected cholera tested are negative for two weeks, the outbreak is considered controlled.

    “Hence, we hereby officially declare the end of cholera outbreaks in Borno and Yobe states.”

    According to Dr. Kawuwa, the Yobe commissioner for Health who was also represented by the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Health Care Agency, Dr. Mohammed Gana, informed there had been no suspected cholera case, since December 4, 2018.

    Allau said Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), Jere and Ngala councils contributed 80 percent of suspected cholera cases in Borno while the remaining cases were reported in 12 council areas of the state.

    Read Also: Borno disburses N200m bursary

    In Yobe, Dr. Gana said:  “As it stands today (Tuesday), 1,813 cases of cholera have been recorded with 61 associated deaths, giving a Case Ratality Rate (CRF)  of  3.36%.

    “Up to 591 cases were recorded in Gulani, 485 in Gujba and 489 in Damaturu council. There were 248 reported cases in Fune and Potiskum Local Government Areas of 181 and 67 respectively.

    “Most of the deaths recorded, though painfully occurred in Gulani, Gujba and Fune LGAs and were primarily due to delays in untimely reporting to health facilities to receive quality care,” Dr. Gana said.

    He said most of the deaths recorded in the councils, were due to delays in timely reporting to health centres for treatment.

    Dr. Gana noted the  commitment of state government and technical support of World Health Organisation (WHO) have mobilised human and capital resources  in full scale response to end further outbreaks and spread of the water borne disease.

  • Boko Haram: Shettima solicits support to end insurgency

    Borno state Governor Kashim Shettima has called for the support of ex- servicemen to boost the efforts of the military to end the Boko Haram insurgency in the state.

    Gov. Kashim, requested the Legion’s support during a courtesy call on him by its Chairman, Col. Williams Mamza (rtd) and Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Brig-Gen. Abdulmalik Biu on Thursday at Government House, Maiduguri.

    He noted that such support could raise and sustain the morale of troops in the front lines of Sambisa Forests and Lake Chad region and any other place in the country, adding that, “ a collaborative support of boosting troops’ morale could overcome the challenges of Boko Haram resurgence in Borno and Yobe states”.

    Gov. Kashim emphasized that the task of fighting Boko Haram is not the exclusive responsibility of the army but rather a collective commitment of all citizen.

    The visit of the Ex men was to inform the governor of their annual Emblem appeal week slated 15/5/2019.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Shettima in tears as Buhari, Borno elders meet in Abuja

    “The fight against insurgency should not be left in the hands of military, but a collective one to ensure peace in the nation.

    “The recent attacks in northern Borno and communities along Maiduguri-Damaturu road led to the displacement of 58,456 people,” Gov. Shettima explained.

    Col. Mamza assured that the Legion, is ever ready render assistance to complement efforts of military end insurgency that has claimed many lives and property.

    “The association will continue to support the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against Boko Haram to restore normalcy,” he assured.

  • We must finish off Boko Haram now, says Air Chief

    The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar on Tuesday said the death of the five crew members of the Nigerian Air Force Mi-35M helicopter that crashed in combat in Borno should spur all Nigerians to resolve to fight all agents of destabilization and extremism in the country.

    Air Marshal Abubakar also said time has come for the nation to throw all it has into the on-going war in the northeast and ensure the war comes to an end as soon as possible.

    He asserted that the death of the five crew members and others fallen heroes in the on-going war against Boko Haram Terrorists should no be in vain.

    The Air Chief made the remarks at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, at the burial of Flt. Lt. P Jacob and 4 other crew members of Mi-35M Helicopter that crashed on the 2nd of January at Damasak, Borno state.

    The Air Chief’s comforting voice came as tears rolled down the cheeks of family members, friends colleaques, and relations of the five air force personnel. Some of their relations wept uncontrollable, while some senior officers also fought back tears as they bade the fallen heroes farewell.

    The departed military personnel were buried with full military honours accompanied by the traditional 21 gun salute.

    Read Also: Nigerien troops kill 280 Boko Haram fighters

    Air Marshal Abubakar said: ” With gratitude to Almighty God, I welcome all of you here today to the burial ceremony of our fallen colleagues Flt Lt P Jacob, Late Flt Lt KP Kilyofas, Late Sgt Ibrahim A, Late LCpl Nura A and Late ACM Ishmael M.

    “These 5 heroes met their untimely death on 2 Jan 19 at Damasak in active Service of our fatherland. These gallant heroes lost their lives in the pursuit of the peace which we all enjoy and often take for granted. We salute the courage of these young men, whose lot it became to give their lives for this purpose.

    “The loss of these courageous and professional gentlemen must spur the rest of us not only to rededicate ourselves in the service of our Nation, but also to resolve that we expose and fight all agents of destabilization and extremism in our society.

    “We must throw in everything we have to this fight to ensure that our departed colleagues did not die in vain. We must do everything possible to bring the ongoing insurgency in the North East to a speedy end that is favourable to our nation.

    “I am indeed deeply touched and saddened by the price which our patriots had to pay in this needless fight against insurgency. Our departed heroes fought that we live in a safe and secure Nigeria where the freedom of worship and association of one and all are guaranteed under one indivisible nation.

    “Therefore, as we resolve to re-dedicate ourselves to the cause of defending the nation, let me at this juncture restate our profound commitment and unalloyed loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR in his efforts at tackling the challenges bedeviling our national security.

    “This is not a speech making occasion, but a time for sober reflections as we pray for the eternal repose of the gentle souls of our departed heroes, all of whom will be greatly missed but are fondly remembered for their invaluable services to the nation and humanity.

    “Jacob, Kilyofas, Ibrahim, Nura and Ishmael, today, as you go to your final resting place, may the Lord be with you forever and be assured that the Nigerian Air Force and indeed the Nation will remain ever grateful to you for your service and sacrifice.

    “To the families of the deceased, I know Nigerians everywhere join me in praying for you as you shoulder this heavy burden of grief. May time ease the soaring pain of today and please note that the entire nation shares this grief with you.

    “There can be no better consolation than the knowledge that the nation grieves with you on the loss of these amiable and patriotic Nigerians, who paid the supreme price in the course of their duty to the fatherland.

    “As we conclude the interment of Jacob, Kilyofas, Ibrahim, Nura and Ishmael, we fervently pray for all our departed colleagues who have paid the supreme price in the course of ensuring the integrity of our dear nation. As Nigerians, we will persevere, taking strength from the legacy of service of these 5 gentlemen and those before them.”

  • Buhari vows to secure the country more

    President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Abuja met a delegation from Borno State, during which he reasserted his administration’s unwavering support to equip the military to overcome the insurgency in the North-East.

    The President, in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and publicity, Femi Adesina, also told the delegation led by Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State that the collective safety and security of civilians would continue to remain paramount in the administration’s strategy to restore peace and stability in the region.

    ‘‘Having been a former Governor in the North East, a GOC in the region and very familiar with the terrain, I assure you that as Commander-in-Chief, I’ll raise the standard of the Nigerian Armed Forces and get the resources to encourage them to do better than what they are doing, ’’ he said.

    The President told the delegation comprising political, traditional, religious, women and media leaders in the State that he was impressed by their leadership roles and participation in helping the government deal with the insurgency in the North East.

    Read Also: Tinubu fully in charge of my campaign- Buhari

    The President commended the contributions of the stakeholders from Borno State particularly the need for more air support for troops on the ground and coordination among different security agencies.

    ‘‘I am getting at least a weekly situation report from the services and of course from other sources. I encourage the commanders to remain committed,’’ he said.

    President Buhari thanked Governor Shettima for demonstrating leadership in the State during these difficult times.

    ‘‘I have an idea how much you are doing and I very much appreciate it. I’m sure that has earned you more respect from the people,’’ he said.

    Speaking earlier, Governor Shettima recounted that before 2015, Boko Haram had almost completely overrun the State, occupying many local government areas because the state government did not receive the necessary support and succour from the then Federal Government.

    He told the President: ‘‘we are here as a people who worked, prayed and waited for your presidency in the firm belief that with you as Commander-in-Chief, Boko Haram will become history.

    ‘‘We are here because you have demonstrated empathy for Borno people and the overriding commitment to end Boko Haram.

    ‘‘We are here because we knew you would welcome us without any suspicion or contempt.’’

    Other stakeholders from the State who made comments included Bishop Mohammed Naga, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State, Dr Bulama Mali Gubio, Secretary, Borno Elders’ Forum, Maina Ma’aji Lawal, former Governor of the State, HRH Muhammad Masta II bn Al-Amin El-Kanemi, Emir of Dikwa, representing the Shehu of Borno, Senator representing Borno North, Abubakar Kyari and Senator Ali Ndume, Leader, Borno Caucus, National Assembly.

     

  • Buratai leads troops to rout over 100 Boko Haram terrorists

    The Nigerian Army said on Monday troops of Operation Lafiya Dole have neutralised over 100 Boko Haram Terrorists in coordinated massive attacks personally led by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai in the theatre of war in Yobe and Borno states.

    Its Director of Public Relations Brig. Gen. Sani Usman said in a statement that the troops alongside the Nigerian Air Force Air Task Force component of Operation Lafiya Dole were also in hot pursuit of fleeing members of the insurgents in various encounters of the operations.

    General Usman said the battle has now shifted to the fringes of Lake Chad and other suspected enclaves of Boko Haram in the theatre of war, stating that the troops were buoyed by the presence and motivation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai.

    He said: “In their determined efforts of wiping the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE have embarked on aggressive clearance operations on suspected Boko Haram terrorists hideouts and crossing points with tremendous results.

    Read Also: Buratai flags off Python Dance III

    “It is in this line that they neutralized quite a number of them and recovered various calibre of arms and ammunition in such areas around Goniri in Yobe State, Damasak, Kross Kauwa and Monguno, among other locations in Borno State.

    “Specifically, the 120 Battalion and the newly formed Nigerian Army Special Forces Command have neutralized over 100 Boko Haram terrorists in various encounters.

    “The Nigerian Air Force Air Task Force components of Operation LAFIYA DOLE have been giving close air support to ground troops and also facilitating hot pursuit of fleeing infiltrating terrorists in the ongoing operations.

    “Significantly, the Air Task Force have destroyed several Boko Haram terrorists gun trucks and facilities. The gallant troops have also been repelling attempted efforts by the terrorists to infiltrate their locations. Buoyed by the Chief of Army Staff’s presence and motivation, the troops in the frontline are in renewed positive fighting spirit across the theatre to stop incursions and annihilate the terrorists.

    “The battle has now further shifted to the fringes of Lake Chad and other suspected Boko Haram terrorists enclave along the borders.”

  • Boko Haram: Don’t panic, Gaidam tell communities

    Yobe State Governor Ibrahim Gaidam has urged communities affected by recent Boko Haram attacks not to leave their ancestral homes, assuring them of safety.

    According to the governor, in a statement by his spokesman, Abdullahi Bego, security agencies are working very hard to keep those communities and the entire state safe from insurgents’ attacks.

    The statement added that Gov. Ibrahim Gaidam is particularly worried that people Kukareta, Bunigari and Katarko are leaving their communities for fear of being attacked by the insurgents, despite that fact that he also shares with those concerned.

    Read Also: NAF neutralises scores of bandits in Zamfara

    Gaidam said he has been fully briefed by security chiefs in the state and measures taken to curtail the threats.

    According to the governor: “Following recent incidents involving Boko Haram terrorists in Kuka Reta, Katarko and Bunigari towns of the state, the Yobe State Government wishes to draw the attention of the public in the affected areas and all across the state to the heightened and continued effort of the military and other security agencies to ensure peace, security and the safety of people throughout the state.

    “The Yobe State Government therefore urges that the public remains calm and vigilant.

    “The call becomes necessary following reports that some people in the affected areas were leaving their communities for other areas due to security concerns.

    “While those concerns are understandable, the Yobe State Government urges that people should not panic or leave their communities.

    “In meetings with heads of security and law enforcement, His Excellency Governor Ibrahim Gaidam has been briefed about the range of efforts that are underway – by the military and all the security agencies on the ground – to approach and contain any threats to security in the state.

    “The Yobe State Government therefore assures that the public can remain confident that those measures are intense and comprehensive and that everything necessary is being done to ensure public safety.

    “His Excellency Governor Ibrahim Gaidam wishes to extend his deepest appreciation and those of the Yobe State Government to the people for their continuous cooperation with the military and other security agencies, a measure that has resulted in huge security gains at various times.

    “The governor therefore urges the people to sustain and build on this level of cooperation and continue to report to law enforcement if and when they notice anything suspicious in their communities”.

    The Nation reports that Kukareta, Bunigari and Katarko have suffered heavy attacks from the hands of Boko Haram.

    The attacks have recorded the killing of many Nigeria soldiers within a very short time.

  • Troops neutralise six Boko Haram terrorists in Borno

    The Nigerian Army said last night that troops have neutralized six Boko Haram terrorists in Gawa and Boskoro villages, Mafa local government area of Borno State.

    Its spokesman, Brig Gen Sani Usman said the troops were on fighting patrol when they engaged the terrorists after credible intelligence reports established their presence in the area.

    Brig Gen Usman said in a statement :”based on credible intelligence,  troops of 112 Task Force Battalion,  22 Brigade, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, along with some members of the Civilian JTF, today, Thursday 3rd January 2019, embarked on fighting patrol to suspected Boko Haram terrorists hideouts around Gawa  and Boskoro villages, Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State.

    “In the course of the patrol, the troops discovered and destroyed Boko Haram terrorists hideout. They also neutralised 6  terrorists in the area.

    “During the search on the hideout before destruction, the troops recovered 3 pieces of 36 Hand Grenade, 4 Dane Guns, and 26 rounds of Anti-Aircraft ammunition.

    Read also: Helicopter crash: Buhari condoles with Nigerian Air Force

    “They also recovered 3 Gas Cylinders and a set of Bow and Arrows. The gallant patrol team also rescued 3 women at Boskoro who were later handed over to the Internally Displaced Persons camp officials at Dikwa.
    “Impressed by their performance,  the Theatre Commander,  Operation LAFIYA DOLE,  Major General BA Akinroluyo commended the troops.

    “The Commendation was relayed to them by the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation LAFIYA DOLE,  Brigadier General Bulama Biu.  He further enjoined them to be more daring and clear any suspected Boko Haram terrorists hideout. “

  • Buratai condoles Air Force over crash

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai has visited his counterpart, the Air Chief, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar to console him over the crash of a Air Force Helicopter on Thursday.

    The crashed helicopter claimed the lives of all the five crew members on board.

    It crashed in combat at Damasak, Borno State while providing support for ground troops who were engaging the Boko Haram terrorists in a fierce battle.

    The Nigerian Army spokesman, Brig Gen Sani Usman, said in a statement that the Army Chief described the crash as a sad situation, but added that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would remain a family.

    According to General Usman, Buratai also said the victims remain heroes whose sacrifices would never be in vain nor be forgotten by the country.

    Buratai also condoled with the families of the fallen heroes and gallant officers, saying they are patriot who died in active service for the security of the country.

    The statement reads “Today, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General TY Buratai, today paid condolence visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal SB Abubakar, at the Headquarters of Air Task Force Command of Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Maiduguri, Borno State.

    “The condolence visit was as a result the unfortunate crash of Nigerian Air Force Mi-35M Helicopter while providing close air support to troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE, around Damasak, northern Borno State, Wednesday, 2nd January 2018.

    “During the condolence visit, the COAS said he was there to on behalf of Officers and Soldiers of the Nigerian Army, commiserate with the families, Officers, Airmen and Airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force and indeed all Nigerians, over the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of the pilots, a technician and the gunners.

    Read Also: Buratai visits troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE

    “He prayed God to grant their souls eternal rest, adding that the gallant heroes’ death would not be in vain as they died on active service for the security of our country, to safe guard the lives of the citizen and serve humanity in general.

    ” He added that military officers are one family, as they train together in various training institutions, operate and live together as professionals and therefore, as family, the Nigerian Army felt the pain of the sad incident.

    “He further stated that military job is associated with high risks, but as professionals, we accept such divine destiny in good faith.

    “He then called on the Director Miliyary Intelligence, Major General SA Adebayo and the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Brigadier General Bulama Biu to lead in the prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed heroes.

    “Speaking earlier, the CAS thanked the COAS for coming to share their pains and grief over the sad incident.

    “He further assured that the Nigerian Air Force would continue to support and work with the Nigerian Army.

    “He commended the determined efforts of other gallant pilots despite the bereavement.

    “He also assured that despite the high risk associated with the military profession, they would continue to give their best to ensure the success of the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country.

    “Present at the occasion apart from both Service Chiefs, were Principal Staff Officers at both Services Headquarters and field commanders and pilots at Operation LAFIYA DOLE. “