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Tag: Buratai

  • Nigerian Army and Buratai’s Insatiable Appetite For Fiscal Discipline

    A most cardinal policy and principle of the President Muhammedu Buhari-led government right from inception is hinged on ensuring transparency and accountability in public governance. The idea was anchored on the concept of e-governance and domesticated by the Federal Ministry of Finance. All government MDAs were directed to take immediate steps in the implementation of all the nuances of this new policy.

    Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai, a nationally acclaimed pacesetter, instantaneously keyed into this policy. He directed the Nigerian Army Finance Corps to initiate actions in this direction. As a new policy, it took time and resources for training of officers, whose official brief was to implement this new policy, through specialized courses, workshops and seminars.

    But while preparations by the Nigerian Army to adopt these financial reforms lasted, Gen. Buratai embarked on cleansing reforms and innovations. They were crafted to place the institution on a better stead to serve the Army and Nigerians better generally. His main focus was on transparency, accountability and probity.

    The Army Chief kick-started this gradual process a long time ago and monitored its progress closely. The actualization of electronic Nigerian Army Personnel Payroll System [e-NAPPS ] today is just part of the many fiscal policy measures and reforms Gen. Buratai’s leadership of Africa’s largest Army has groomed from the scratch under the supervision of Major Gen. J E Jakko, who has done a faultless job.

    Much earlier, the Army Chief laid the foundation, by getting the institution to initiate and adopt other reforms like domesticating the Single Treasury Account (TSA) policy and Government Integrated Financial Management Information Systems, as obtained at the federal level.

    The months of planning, training and commitment to these novel financial reforms have finally berthed with the launch of the Nigerian Army electronic payment system (e-payment) for its officers and personnel, dubbed as e-NAPS, the gateway to the Integrated Personnel payment System (IPPS).

    The public launch of e-NAPPS at the first quarterly COAS Conference 2018 in Abuja is yet another milestone in the celebration of one of the most professionalized institution in the country. Gen. Buratai has again made a bold statement as a consummate soldier, leader and administrator per excellence, who sets targets, which hardly evades him.

    The Nigerian Army’s Chief of Accounts and Budget, Major Gen. Jakko endearingly buttressed the imperative of the new system as springboard for the re-evaluation of the Nigerian Army personnel records, most of which are understandably outdated. With e-NAPPS, the officers and personnel of the Army are proud operators of a database; linked to the IPPIS of the central government.

    Gen. Jakko summed up the benefits of the new system thus: “The e-NAPPS is designed as a star topology in a centrally managed server-client model that links the data center at the headquarters of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps at Apapa, with the NA, 8 divisions, Guards Brigade, Army Headquarters Garrison, APPO and TRADOC finance offices for administration of troops’ pay and allowances”.

    e-NAPPS is undoubtedly a new dawn in the transparent and accountable management of financial operations of the NA for payroll administration, accurate periodic reviews and updates of the database to guarantee financial security. It can also secure integrity, reliability, enhanced planning for personnel and the management of contractual obligations as well as budgetary votes in consonance with the transparency in public governance of the Buhari Presidency.

    As tedious as the adoption of e-NAPPS appears, the COAS devoted his time, energy and resources to ensure it comes to fruition. This again buttressed his love for audit and fiscal policies which he sings like a song to the officers and men and even his family too not left out. His overwhelming attention to e-NAPPS sprouts from the mindset of a leader who is innately and inextricably tied to concerns of the welfare of officers and personnel.

    And it has several other pluses. Aside improving the financial literacy of personnel of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps, Gen. Buratai is one leader who believes a workman deserves his wages and promptly. It is both a Biblical and Koranic injunctions, he hates to violate under normal or avoidable circumstances. And his simple reason is that it is a silent, but potent tool in boasting the morale of troops. The e-NAPPS is a sure proof in this regard.

    Today, he has placed the Nigerian Army on the fast lane of e-transactions, and officers and personnel would now begin to enjoy or reap from his hard work and that of his team, with the removal and purging of the Army from analogue financial operations. It is a sure bet that complaints can be easily addressed and remedies provided within the shortest possible time.

    A very generous and amiable gentleman, General Buratai is a man with deep love for accountability and transparency in governance.
    It is what makes Gen. Buratai a special breed and a different leader within the contemporary context of Nigeria. Quite disappointingly, welfare of subordinates is not one of the priorities or quick-wins of many leaders in the country. But the Army boss has proven to be exceptional.

    Within Army circles, many have admitted that the e-NAPPS was a project close to Gen. Buratai’s heart and he regularly requested for briefs on progress. And when he finally succeeded by unveiling it, while addressing this year’s COAS quarterly conference in Abuja, a rapturous ovation greeted the hall.

    Soldiers were quite excited at the reality of more ease of financial transactions being witnessed, as all monetary operations would henceforth be conducted through the same procedure to consolidate Gen. Buratai’s focus on accountability and transparency. And soldiers, especially those in the battlefront, whose families depend on salaries for survival, would now have such grace extended to them much more quickly than it has ever been possible.

    Some arm-chair and bald-headed critics of the NA, under Gen. Buratai can ply their trade, after all, in democracy, freedom of expression is unimpeded. But this new Sheriff in town is leaving nothing to chance in the complete reformation of the Nigerian Army as manifest in the results of the extraordinary and far- reaching reforms and innovations.

    Those still in doubt can flash back to 2015 when President Buhari appointed Gen. Buratai as the Army boss. He instantly embarked on massive reforms across all the directorates of the Nigerian Army to ensure effectiveness and deliver to Nigerians a result-oriented safeguard . He neither spared any effort nor dreaded anyone in his avowal to reposition the entire landscape into a professionally responsive and responsible Army capable of delivering on its constitutional mandates.

    Today, the entire country is reaping the fruits of his labour and hard work either through troops performance in the battle field or corporate social responsibilities at the disposal of countless communities around Nigeria.

    It is therefore not shocking that under Gen. Buratai the institution has metamorphosed from its despicable and ignoble global status to a truly respected Army among its counterparts in the world. And the reason is not far-fetched; it is Gen. Buratai’s ingenuity and dedication to his duties in the service of the nation.

    Nigerians and the world now see, perceive and feel a pragmatic leadership of the Army, exuding honour and dignity, in conduct and actions under the current leadership. It is the secret behind the delivering of resounding, rare and irrevocable victories against Nigeria’s war on terrorism. Again, kudos to the Nigerian Army.

    Mefor, a financial expert based in the United Kingdom contributed this piece from Barking, London.

  • 2019 elections: Buratai warns soldiers against partisan politics

    •Court martial to prosecute disobedient officers

    CHIEF of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has warned officers and men of the Army to steer clear from the 2019 general elections, warning that anyone who compromises his calling will face the full wrath of the law.

    Buratai gave the warning yesterday during the COAS First Quarter Conference at the Army Command Officers Mess, Abuja.

    He announced that a Special Standing Court Martial that would prosecute officers and men dabbling into politics, compromising military ethics or playing a role in the forthcoming general elections would be set up.

    The COAS decried criticisms that have trailed some of the interventions and operations of the Army in some parts of the country, asserting that officers and men of the army are mandated to stay away from meddling in the 2019 general elections.

    Buratai said: “The NA must remain apolitical and professionally responsive in the discharge of its constitutional duties. GOCs and Field Commanders at all levels are, therefore, warned that anyone that runs afoul of his professional ethics will be appropriately dealt with.

    “You are all enjoined to continue to remind officers and soldiers under your command to remain non-partisan and be guided by the stipulated code of conduct and rules of engagement in the discharge of their duties, particularly in the coming 2019 general elections.

    “I have directed for a Special Standing Court Martial to be set up in preparation for the coming 2019 elections. I must warn that any NA personnel found hobnobbing with politicians or being partisan will be investigated and sent to the Special Standing Court Martial.

    “I must state that any officer or soldier who wishes to be sympathetic to a political, religious or ethnic group should voluntarily retire from the NA.

    “Further, all are reminded on the ban on any form of worship outside the barracks, except those permitted for wedding and other social events.”

    According to him “officers and soldiers must restrain themselves from any act of political, religious or ethnic patronisation as these would attract severe consequences. The fate of the 38 officers who were retired is still fresh in our memories.”

    “In this regard, issues of murder, arson and other serious crimes perpetrated by ethnic and local militias, criminals and miscreants must be dealt with decisively.  Commanders would be held responsible for any lapses arising from their actions or inactions,” the COAS stated.

    He said the army high command is aware of the constraints affecting some of the operations, stating that plans were underway to improve on the situation, particularly on procurement issues relating to the 2018 budget releases.

    Buratai said to cut cost, the Army would continue to patronise Nigerian-made hardware such as Innoson Motors, Proforce Nigeria and Nigerian Machine Tools among others.

    He also spoke on the partnership with the Harvard Kennedy School of Government on leadership to be held at Harvard University, Boston, United States.

    Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) Major-General R.O. Yusuf noted that the “Nigerian Army has continued to receive encomiums from several quarters on its performance in Operations Lafiya Dole, Sharan Daji and MESA”.

     

  • Herdsmen/Farmers’ Crisis: Group Commends Buratai Over Board of Inquiry

    The Middle Belt Conscience Guard, has commended the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen TY Buratai over the composition of a panel of inquiry to investigate allegations made by a former defence minister Lt. General T.Y. Danjuma on the farmers, herders clashes in some parts of the country.

    Addressing journalists in Abuja, the group’s National Convener, Prince Raymond Enero expressed satisfaction that the panel is chaired by retired Major General John Nimyel, and other eminently qualified persons who have no individual attachment or hold any sentiments prior to its constitution.

    The group said the setting up of the panel and the COAS’ avowal not to spare any personnel found to have compromised in their services to the country is not just reassuring but also

    a confirmation of the professionalism and discipline the current leadership of the army has displayed over time.

    Enero however, warned that all precautions necessary must be taken to insulate the panel from undue interference and influence that could jeopardize its objectivity and ability to uncover the truth as intended.

    According to him, this is because the group has noted that certain individuals  have initiated moves to hamstring the panel or corral it into returning a damning verdict against troops.

    He alleged that these contractors are already floating opinion articles and sponsoring news stories to question the objectivity of the panel and the exercise it is meant to conduct.

    Enero therefore urged CSOs and all other interested parties to give the panel the necessary cooperation it needs to do its work.

    He said as a responsible organization that has the best interest of the Middle Belt at heart, the the Middle Belt Conscience Guard shall monitor all proceedings of the panel as an impartial observer.

    He said, “Without prejudice to the outcome of the panel, we will make our own observations and recommendations known to Nigerians.

    “Given the track record of the Army under the present leadership of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai and its strict adherence to rules of engagement that conform to international standards, it is inconceivable that troops deployed to safeguard life would be involved in wanton destruction of same.

    “Conversely, it is equally inconceivable that an elder would brazenly lie in the twilight of his life irrespective of what is at stake. It was therefore pertinent that the truth is established so that Nigerians can decide what is to follow.”

    He explained that the COAS has in the past inaugurated a Human Rights Desk in the Nigerian Army and later set up the department for civil/military relations which are pointers to how the interest of citizens have been treated as paramount

    He urged Nigerians, particularly opinion leaders, not to inflame the polity by unduly politicizing sensitive security issues, stressing that politics should be played in the arena of politicking while the safety of citizens must not be pawned to gain political mileage.

  • Wike, Ganduje, Bagudu, Buratai, others for civil society awards

    The Nigeria Civil Society Coalition (NCSC) is to honour Governors Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi) and Chief of Army Staff  Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai.

    Also to be honoured are  Mrs Christy Uba (director ICT, NYSC), Alhaji Umar Ibrahim (MD, NDIC) and Uche Ogar (CEO, Masters Energy).

    NCSC, which unveiled the nominees after its meeting  in Abuja, said it was satisfied with the manner in which the awardees conducted themselves and their achievements in office.

    “NCSC periodically recognises individuals and groups who contributed to development” , a statement signed by Abubakar Sadiq and  Chinaka Moses, awards commitee chairman and secretary said.

    The group lauded Wike, Ganduje and Bagudu, saying their governance style has turned their states to model states.

    It said statistics showed   how they genuinely impacted on their states infrastructure, citing Rivers and Kano, as well as the rice revolution in Kebbi.

    It called on privileged public servants to emulate Buratai,  Mrs Uba, Umar and Ogar, whose sense of devotion have impacted on the nation’s developmental quest.

    “NCSC  resolved to honour these compatriots, who have demonstrated a strong  sense of uprightness and tact in their responsibility,” it said.

    The event is slated for August 20.

     

  • COAS, Buratai charges Army commands to sustain its operational successes

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TY Buratai has Charged the various commands of the Nigerian Army especially “Operation Lafiya Dole “ to sustain the numerous successes being recorded by the Army across board on daily basis.

    The Army Chief stated this in a speech at the ongoing Chief of Army Staff Conference in Abuja.

    Buratai while calling on troops to desist from hobnobbing with politicians ahead of the 2019 general elections, said the Army is putting in place a robust procurement and operational plan to preserve and promote the successes of the Nigerian troops in all its engagements.

    Read the full text below:

    OPENING ADDRESS BY LT GEN TY BURATAI NAM OMM (BR) GSS psc(+) ndc (BD) FCMH FNHAM BA (Hons) MA MPhil CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF ON THE OCCASION OF THE CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF FIRST QUARTER CONFERENCE IN ABUJA ON 10 APRIL 2018

    PROTOCOL

    1. It is my honour and privilege to welcome you all to Abuja for the COAS First Quarter Conference 2018. Let me start by using this opportunity to thank you all for commiserating with me and the entire Buratai family on the demise of our beloved father, Alhaji Yusuf Buratai, who died on the 9 February 2018. I pray that Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest.

    2. The COAS Quarterly Conferences serve as a pedestal for the hierarchy of the NA to appraise and discuss its doctrinal, operational and administrative matters as well as other security issues that are crucial to the stability of our country. This is with a view to fashioning out better ways through which the NA can implement the Federal Government’s defence and security policies towards ensuring peace and development of our nation.

    3. In this era of political and social transformation, the NA remains steadfast in carrying out its constitutional roles as well as providing aid to civil authority. My vision for the NA which is “To Have a Professionally Responsive Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles” is geared towards ensuring a safer environment for development and socio-economic activities to thrive in the country. We must ensure that we conduct ourselves professionally and respond adequately to threats against our nation in accordance with our constitutional roles.

    4. The NA would continue to chart progressive paths towards tackling the security challenges confronting the nation. To this end, I have instructed that attention must be given to ongoing NA operations in various parts of the country to ensure that security threats are dealt with decisively. Training must also be given due attention so that we can outperform the achievements of the previous years. Furthermore, research and development must be sufficiently pursued and funded to promote and attain the desired transformation and innovation drive in the NA.

    5. The successes achieved by troops in the ongoing operations, particularly Op LAFIYA DOLE, has placed the NA on a good stead and the momentum must be sustained and consolidated. However, in conjunction with other services and security agencies, the NA must also deal decisively with other security challenges such as farmers-herdsmen clashes, armed banditry, cattle rustling, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, militant activities among other violent crimes.

    6. Operations DEEP PUNCH II in the North East and Exercise AYEM AKPATUMA in the North Central have achieved tremendous successes leading to the arrest of key suspects as well as recovery of arms and ammunition in Benue, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger and Taraba States. The conduct of Exercise AYEM AKPATUMA has been extended in Taraba State till 30 May 18 based on the prevailing security situation in the state. While paying tribute to the officers and men in the field, I urge you all not to relent on your efforts at ensuring a safer Nigeria.

    7. The need to review the conduct of NA operations across the country has become imperative in view of lapses recently observed among commanders. Some of the lapses observed can be partly attributed to indecisiveness when faced with obvious challenges. Hence, the attitude of commanders in the field must change especially towards decision making and taking appropriate action in line with the Rules of Engagements. In this regard, issues of murder, arson and other serious crimes perpetrated by ethnic and local militias, criminals and miscreants must be dealt with decisively. Commanders would be held responsible for any lapses arising from their actions or inactions. I have directed the CTOP (A) to set up a high powered team to review all our operations especially where lapses have been observed in order to bring to book all those involved in such cases.

    8. Very recently, concerns have been raised by individuals and groups alike about the actions carried out by some units and formations in the course of operations. This has led to very strong comments and criticisms against the Nigerian Army. Some of the strongest comments have come from key citizens in Taraba State. In this regard, I have set up a panel to investigate some of the allegations that have been made, particularly with regards to operations in Taraba State. The panel was tasked to ascertain the veracity of the statements made and the true situation of things in the State. Nonetheless, we must put in more effort to improve our relations with civilians and the citizenry at large through better narratives and media operations.

    9. Let me state emphatically here that the unity and integrity of Nigeria lies on the military and the NA in particular. Therefore, any act inimical to the unity and integrity of this country by personnel of the NA will be decisively dealt with. The NA must remain apolitical and professionally responsive in the discharge of its constitutional roles. GOCs and Field Commanders at all levels are, therefore, warned that anyone that runs foul of his professional ethics will be appropriately dealt with. You are all enjoined to continue to remind officers and soldiers under command to remain non-partisan and be guided by the stipulated code of conduct and rules of engagement in the discharge of their duties particularly in the coming 2019 General Elections. Furthermore, NA personnel in any capacity who receives any form of inducement from politicians, public or private entities, knowingly or unknowingly will be severely punished. Both the giver and taker of such inducement will be investigated and appropriately sanctioned.

    10. I have directed for a Special Standing Court Martial to be set up in preparation for the coming 2019 elections. I must warn that any NA personnel found hobnobbing with politicians or being partisan will be investigated and sent to the Special Standing Court Martial. I must state clearly that any officer or soldier who wishes to be sympathetic to a political, religious or ethnic group should voluntarily retire from the NA. Furthermore, all are reminded on the ban on any form of worship outside the barracks except those permitted for wedding and other social functions. Therefore, officers and soldiers must restrain themselves from any act of political, religious or ethnic patronisation as these would attract severe consequences. The fate of the 38 officers who were retired is still fresh in our memories.

    11. I am quite aware of the logistics constraints affecting the sustainability of our operations across the country particularly Op LAFIYA DOLE. I want to assure you that a robust and comprehensive procurement plan is in place in the Year 2018 Budget. However, the effective implementation of the procurement plan is subject to budget releases. I, therefore, want to emphasize that personal clothing, protective gears, additional equipment/platforms, accommodation, welfare and other logistics provisions would be my top priority in the procurement plan this year.

    12. In line with the Federal Government’s drive to boost local content and patronage, the NA is collaborating with indigenous companies in the local production of vehicles, weapon and equipment spares as well as combat materiel. The companies include Innoson Vehicle Motors, Proforce Nigeria Limited and Nigerian Machine Tools amongst others. This is aimed at boosting local production and enhancing our growing military industrial complex.

    13. In the First Quarter of 2018, I directed the procurement and supply of weapons, UAVs, vehicles, tyres, protective gears and spares to the Theatre for enhanced operations. Commanders at all levels are, therefore, enjoined to ensure judicious use and periodic maintenance of the items under their command. I believe this can be achieved if commanders at all levels imbibe and practice purposeful leadership in the efficient and effective management of men and materiel.

    14. Leadership remains a cardinal point in the command and administration of the NA at tactical, operational and strategic levels. This underscores the need for us to give leadership training the pride of place in our exercises and training. In this regard, I am pleased with the outcome of Lieutenant – Captain

    Promotion Examinations held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State which recorded 93 percent pass. Similarly, the final list of officers nominated to attend NDC 27/NIPSS SEC 41 and equivalent foreign courses for 2018/2019 as well as the AWCN Course 2/2018 have been released. It is gratifying to note that the AWCN programmes would be conducted at the newly constructed permanent site of the College here in Abuja. Presently, the modification and harmonization of the course curriculum with other services war colleges is ongoing. This is with a view to having a harmonized course content, coordinated approach to war fighting and cohesive decision making process.

    15. The NA Resource Centre has also embarked on some strategic level partnership and collaboration with some renowned think-tank institutions across the world such as Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Boston, USA and the United Services Institution of India. This is with a view to conducting international seminars, conferences and symposia for the benefit of NA personnel, other para-military and security agencies, the executive branch and the academia. Recently, I directed a team of officers led by the DG NARC to embark on a working visit to the Harvard Kennedy School of Executive Studies to fashion out modalities for partnership. This is with a view to developing our capacity building and other leadership training programmes. It is hoped that on completion of the negotiations with Harvard Kennedy School (HKS), the NARC would begin to run some of HKS programmes based on needs assessment and memorandum of understanding. So far, 22 officers have been trained at the HKS. Officers at strategic levels are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to develop and further enhance their capacity.

    16. The exigency of duty necessitated the regular posting of officers and soldiers in formations and units across the country as well as outside the shores of Nigeria. This brings to fore the need for NA personnel to acquire sufficient knowledge and skills to aid communication and the discharge of their duties. Accordingly, knowledge of the 3 major Nigerian languages will

    ensure that NA personnel are able to fit in wherever they may be deployed. To this effect, I have approved the establishment of a language department in all NA training schools to enhance the communication skills of personnel. You are, therefore, enjoined to sensitize officers and soldiers to acquire basic knowledge of more Nigerian languages as well as major international languages, wherever they may be deployed.

    17. In the past, our relationship with civil society groups was often marred by petitions and allegations of human rights abuses and other violations. However, since the establishment of the Human Rights Desk within the Army Headquarters and across formations, we have seen a sharp decline in the number of allegations against the NA. In addition, the desk has also helped in investigating human rights violations against serving personnel. I enjoin all to give the Human Rights Desk the required cooperation to enable them carry out their assigned tasks.

    18. In recognition of the competence and capacity of the female soldier and also in line with global best practices, the NA is to establish Corps for women, which is aimed at developing professionally responsive female officers and soldiers that can be employed to support the NA in all its operational engagements and other commitments within and outside the country. The Corps will give the Nigerian Army an opportunity to reorganize the women in order to derive the maximum benefit from their contribution to the defence and security of our nation.

    19. As part of efforts to complement the defence and security arrangements put in place to checkmate the security challenges in the Country, I directed the promulgation of the Establishment Order as well as the operationalization of 17 Bde Katsina. This became expedient due to the planned relocation of 8 TF Div Monguno (Op LAFIYA DOLE) to its permanent headquarters in Sokoto State as provided in the NA ORBAT 2016. Let me reiterate that the Nigerian Army will continue to remain neutral in ensuring the safety of Nigerians wherever troops are deployed

    for operations within the country. It is also important to recognise NA personnel who have paid the supreme sacrifice during various operations. Their sacrifices have contributed immensely to the stability which the country currently enjoys.

    20. At this juncture, I want to appreciate the media and the general public for their understanding and positive change of perception regarding the NA. I will also emphasize the need for enhanced and continued collaboration in tackling our security challenges by conscious media reportage. The NA has always enjoyed the support of sister Services and other security agencies in the discharge of its duties. The NA would continue to look forward to more support and collaboration towards making our dear country Nigeria safe for all.

    21. Finally, it is with a high sense of responsibility and respect that I humbly express the NA’s profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammad Buhari GCFR, for his invaluable support to the NA. On behalf of officers and soldiers of the NA, I once more pledge our total commitment to the defence of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Thank you and God bless.

  • How Sambisa Forest fell, by Buratai

    The professionalism and determination of Operation Deep Punch II led to the fall of Sambisa Forest, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has said.

    He spoke at the closing of the 2018 West Africa Social Activities (WASA) programme in Apapa, Lagos.

    Gen. Buratai was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Enobong Udoh.

    The COAS said the operation and other exercises, which were part of the Army’s training activities in 2017, helped to curtail crime in some parts of the country.

    According to him, WASA was one of the ways of keeping the traditions of the Army. It is usually organised to mark the end of a training year and the beginning of another.

    He said: “Various field training exercises, such as, ‘Shirin Harbi,’ ‘Harbin Kunama II’ and ‘Crocodile Smile II’, were successfully conducted in 2017. The climax of these exercises and operations was Operation Deep Punch II in the Northeast, which led to the fall of Sambisa Forest.

    “These exercises have helped to curb and reduce crime across the country.”

    Gen. Buratai added that exercise ‘Ayem Akpatuma’, which is ongoing, was yielding significant results. He advised the men and officers of the Army to remain focused, dedicated and resilient to consolidate on the achievements recorded so far.

    “As we begin another training cycle, I urge you to remain committed to ensuring peace and stability across the country.

    “You must remain focused, dedicated and resilient to consolidate on the achievements so far recorded,” he added.

    The COAS noted that the 2017 training year saw the revival of Army activities, hitherto, suspended.

    He, therefore, urged the officers and men to remain proactive in the discharge of their duties.

    The Chief of Accounts and Budget (NAFC), Maj.-Gen. Jahadi Jakko said the Army had successfully been operating under the Treasury Single Account (TSA).

    Jakko hailed the soldiers for their discipline and dedication to duty during the year.

     

  • How Sambisa fell under ‘Operation Deep Punch 2’ – Buratai

    The professionalism and determination of ‘Operation Deep Punch 2’ led to the fall of Sambisa Forest in the North East part of the country.

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai,  said this at the 2018 West Africa Social Activities (WASA) programme which ended late on  Saturday  in Apapa, Lagos.

    He was represented by  Maj.-Gen. Enobong Udoh, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army.

    The COAS said that the operation and other exercises, which were part of the training activities for  the army in 2017, helped to curtail criminal activities in parts of  the country.

    According to him, WASA is one of the ways of keeping the traditions of the army.

    He explained that it was usually organised to mark the end of a training year and the beginning of another.

    “Various field training exercises such as ‘Shirin Harbi,’ ‘Harbin Kunama 2’ and ‘Crocodile Smile 2’  were successfully conducted in all parts of the country in 2017.

    “The climax of these exercises and operations was the ‘Operation Deep Punch 2’ in the North East, which led to the fall of the Sambisa Forest.

    “These exercises have notably gone a long way in curbing and reducing criminality and other crimes across the country,’’ he said.

    Similarly, the COAS said that exercise ‘Ayem Akpatuma’ , which is currently ongoing, was yielding significant results.

    Buratai advised the men and officers of the Nigerian Army to remain focused, dedicated and resilient in order to consolidate on  the achievements recorded so far.

    “As we commence another training cycle, I urge you all to remain committed to ensuring peace and stability across the country.

    “You must remain focused, dedicated and resilient in order to consolidate on the achievements so far recorded.’’

    The COAS noted that the 2017 training year saw the revival of army activities, hitherto, suspended.

    He, therefore, urged the officers and men of the army to remain proactive in the discharge of their duties.

    He expressed delight that the Nigerian Army Sports Festival had  been successfully revived after a seven-year break.

    He urged the army to remain proactive in the discharge of their duties and assured the officers and men that the government would continue to prioritise their welfare.

    “We will provide decent accommodation and other social amenities to our personnel.

    “We will also  ensure that our troops get adequate logistics in all operational areas in 2018,” Buratai said.

    Earlier, the Chief of Accounts and Budget (NAFC), Maj.-Gen. Jahadi Jakko said that the Nigerian Army had successfully been operating under the Treasury Single Account (TSA) .

    Jakko commended the soldiers for their discipline and dedication to duty during the year.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WASA is an annual event aimed at promoting team spirits and confidence within and outside the barracks.

    It is also a forum for informal, social interaction and avenue for the barrack community to showcase the rich and diverse cultures of the country.

    The colourful event featured tug-of-war, dances by cultural groups and presentation of gifts and awards to distinguished soldiers and guests. (NAN)

  • Nigeria confronted with security challenges, says Buratai

    Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has stated that the Army and the country are confronted with security challenges.

    He identified the challenges as terrorism, insurgency and so on, which had brought untold hardship to innocent citizens and contributed negatively to the economy.

    Gen. Buratai spoke a special guest of honour during the combined 6 Division end-of-the-year West African Social Activities (WASA) at the Port Harcourt Barracks, Bori Camp, Rivers State at the weekend.

    He noted that WASA was a regimental event, carried out yearly, as a means of bringing officers and soldiers together with their families to celebrate the end of the training year and usher in the activities of the new year, a tradition which he said was handed over to the Nigerian army by the colonial masters, but being sustained to foster esprit-de-corps and command the confidence of soldiers.

    The chief of army staff, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. S.N. Chikwe (rtd.), added that the 6 division, which is responsible for curtailing militancy, illegal oil bunkering, cultism, pipeline vandalism and other vices in the Niger Delta, had recorded tremendous successes since its establishment, while also performing satisfactorily in the areas of training and regimentation.

    He said: “Since the assumption of office of President Muhammadu Buhari, we have all begun to see tremendous change in the approach towards the military action. The security situation in the country has improved significantly, while other important sectors have taken good shape.

    “I am pleased to inform you that our gallant troops in the Northeast are doing fantastic job. Let me urge you to continue to imbibe and uphold the Nigerian Army’s core values of integrity, loyalty and discipline. Always place service interest above personal interest. I want to assure you that hard work, innovation and creativity will certainly be rewarded.”

    Gen. Buratai also described WASA as an important aspect of regimentation.

    The guest of honour, Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Tonye Briggs-Oniyide, lauded the officers and men of the Nigerian army, who she said were making sacrifices to unite Nigeria, while supporting the WASA with N5 million.

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 division, Maj.-Gen. Musa Yusuf, stated that WASA had become an age-long tradition in the Nigerian army, usually marked with display of cultural dances and costumes.

    Gen. Yusuf said: “Let me use this opportunity to thank the Chief of Army Staff for his purposeful leadership, commitment to training and the welfare of officers, soldiers and their families.

    “Your (Buratai’s) passion for training and welfare of the troops made it possible for us to record all the successes in 2017.

    “We have started 2018 with great enthusiasm and good hope of further actualising your (Buratai’s) vision by consolidating on the gains of the past year, through improved discipline and sustained training to meet the Nigerian Army’s constitutional roles.”

    The GOC also reassured the chief of army staff and pledged the unalloyed loyalty to Gen. Buratai’s leadership, President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration and Nigeria.

  • Army dealing with security challenges, says Buratai

    Army dealing with security challenges, says Buratai

    Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Tukur Burutai has said the Army is dealing with rising security challenges.

    Lt.-Gen. Burutai spoke yesterday at the groundbreaking of the Army Barracks, Camp Buratai, at Elebele, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

    He explained that following the nation’s challenges, President Muhammadu Buhari desired the Army to spread its footprints to confront threats in partnership with sister agencies.

    The COAS said the 6th Division and 6th Brigade in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were part of the expansionist project.

    He said the 16th Brigade in Yenagoa, was made operational on February 28, adding that he was in Katsina 10 days ago to operationalise the 17th Brigade under the  8th Division, with headquarters in Operation Lafia Dole in Monguno.

    But he said its headquarters in Monguno would be relocated to Sokoto once insurgency is fully contained.

    The groundbreaking was attended by Governor Seriake Dickson; his key exco members; Founder/President of Belema Oil Producing Ltd Mr. Jack-Rich Pein (Jnr); and the Chief Executive Officer of Azikel Refinery, Dr. Azibapu Erani.

    General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6th Division Maj.-Gen. M.S. Yusuf; Commander 16th Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, and other security commanders; traditional rulers and host communities were also present.

    Gen. Buratai said: “The establishment of 6th Brigade  in Port Harcourt, 6th Division in Port Harcourt and the 16th Brigade in Yenagoa forms an important part of Mr. President’s desire to have a balanced and widespread footprints of the Nigerian Army to deal with the myriads of security challenges facing the country in conjunction with other security agencies.

    “As you may be aware, I was in Katsina about 10 days ago to operationalise the 17th Brigade under the new 8 Division whose headquarters is currently in Operation Lafia Dole, the theatre of operation specifically in Monguno but will soon relocate to Sokoto after the menace of the insurgency has been fully contained.’’

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • I will only return to that school if Buratai is the gateman, says pupil

    I will only return to that school if Buratai is the gateman, says pupil

    The Boko Haram attack on Government Girls Science and Technical College, Dapchi, may have created a setback for the efforts to get girls to remain in schools in Yobe State.

    One of the pupils, Faiza Mohammed, said yesterday that she would not return to school except Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Yusuf Tukur Buratai is the gateman.

    The attack on the school has also caused some level of panic across the northern part of Yobe State which witnessed fewer attacks of the insurgents in the last seven years.

    Faiza, who gave a graphic account of the pupils’ experience while avoiding the marauding terrorists, said one of her classmates was bitten by a snake as they tried to escape through the bush in the night; others broke their legs.

    Faiza praised the efforts of “our teachers who tried to keep us together”. “They tried their best to control us not to scatter into the bush but some stubborn students started jumping the fence to run into the bush. There were some of us that hid in nearby houses from the school.”

    She said the Vice Principal (Academics) and the Vice Principal (Admin) were monitoring the movement of the Boko Haram men around the school.

    “I told my mother that I will not go back to that school again, except Buratai is the gateman. But my sister’s daughter told me that my demands are impossible because Gen. Buratai cannot come down to Dapchi to become gateman in my school. What I simply want is for government to provide for us enough security.

    “Because of what my sister said, I will go back but if I see no security, I will just come back and study at home and write my final exams and my JAMB,” Faiza said.

    The state government closed down the school for one week. The Army has launched a search and rescue operation for the missing students.

    Some of the parents have taken to the social media to demand explanation on the missing girls.

    One wrote on his faebook page:

    #Tragedy #Disaster#Trauma #Emergency 

    Where are our Girls?

    Following the attack on Dapchi my hometown by suspected Boko Haram members and their penetration into the Government Girls Science and Technical College in the town on Monday 19/2/2018. A lot of families are left in confusion and trauma of not knowing the whereabout of their daughters and the authorities concerned did not give any genuine  feedback to the people.

    The Authorities insist the  Girls are missing while parents of the Girls and Community members including myself have established that those girls were abducted by the insurgents just as the widely  publicized Chibok Girls.

    I am by this urging the Government at all levels to be sincere with us and let us know and possibly participate in any effort put in place for  finding  the “missing “ girls. To the  media also, your investigative reportage  should not just stop at political wrangling, this  is a time  the  helpless community people need your  services.  

    So far, within Dapchi town alone, nothing is heard of over forty girls and no Authority consoled their families after almost 48hrs. Haba!