The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, says the Nigerian Army will bring to justice the perpetrators of the recent killings in Benue, Plateau and other parts of the country.
Oluyede made this known on Saturday in Akure during a second quarter 2025 media chat organised by the Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Nigerian Army Headquarters.
The media chat was themed “Military – Media Collaboration: Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development”.
The COAS, represented by Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Div., Nigerian Army, Ibadan, said the military was fully committed to ending the spate of violence, particularly in North-Central Nigeria.
Oluyede, who said that the president had given very clear orders, explained that they would remain engaged in Plateau, Benue, Kwara and quite a number of states that were experiencing insecurity.
“We are out, fully deployed and tackling the menace head-on
“In Benue particularly, you will see in the coming weeks, very elaborate security arrangements to ensure that all that is going on there completely stops.
“Communities and local stakeholders should support military operations by sharing timely intelligence:
“The Army cannot be everywhere at once. Nigeria is a vast country but we are not as large in number as many people believe.
“We rely heavily on the support and cooperation of the local population to provide timely and credible information.
“In some cases, unfortunately, the people are not very helpful in terms of the information they give out, which delays our reaction time. That must change if we are to win this fight together,” he said.
The COAS called on media personnel to verify facts before publication, and help in building national security and development to combat misinformation and sensational reporting,
According to him, the social media space, especially, is flooded with misinformation, disinformation and outright lies.
“So, we are appealing to the media practitioners to reach out to us before putting out unverified stories.
“We are satisfied with the support we’ve received from the media so far and we hope to deepen that synergy to ensure national security is not undermined by sensational reporting,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has delivered critical combat enablers and deployed additional 300 troops to boost manpower under the Operation “Whirl Stroke”.
A credible source who pleaded anonymity told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deployment was in a significant effort to reinforce security and operational capacity in the North Central region.
The officer said the deployment, which includes mobility and protective assets, was aimed at enhancing troop mobility, rapid response, and overall effectiveness in addressing emerging threats.
The sources said that the COAS had during his recent visit to Benue, presented a consignment of equipment at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Makurdi.
The items delivered, according to him, include over 100 motorcycles, Troop-Carrying Vehicles (TCVs), and personal protective equipment.
“These assets are designed to improve tactical agility, force protection, and combat readiness, particularly in difficult and rugged terrains where asymmetric threats are prevalent,” the source said.
NAN recalls that the COAS, while in Makurdi, reassured the people of the state and the wider North Central region of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability.
He emphasised that under his leadership, efforts to safeguard lives and property would be intensified.
The Army Chief also paid a courtesy visit to the state government, where he extended heartfelt condolences over recent violent attacks that resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.
Oluyede directed the immediate review of existing operational frameworks and the reinforcement of troop presence in volatile areas.
The decision, he said, reflects the Army’s responsive approach to evolving security challenges and its resolve to dismantle armed groups terrorizing local communities.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, appreciated the COAS for the timely support.
He noted that the newly inducted assets would be swiftly integrated into ongoing operations to expand operational reach, enhance situational awareness, and strengthen troop morale.
This latest intervention emphasises the Nigerian army’s commitment to ensuring national security, promoting peace, and enabling social and economic development across the region.
The source said that the army leadership under Oluyede had made significant progress in repositioning the force for effective internal security operations.
NAN reports that operation whirl stroke was launched on May 18, 2018 to counter armed herdsmen and militia groups in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Zamfara.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has urged retiring military personnel to maintain discipline, ethical conduct, and a commitment to national development as they transition to civilian life.
Speaking during the Passing Out Ceremony of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Course 1/2025 in Oshodi, Lagos, Oluyede, represented by the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe described retirement as “a transition into another phase of national contribution,” not the end of service.
The ceremony marked the formal graduation of 542 personnel, including 362 from the Nigerian Army, 134 from the Nigerian Navy, and 46 from the Nigerian Air Force, who underwent six months of pre-retirement training.
“As ambassadors of the Armed Forces, society expects high ethical standards from you,” Oluyede said. “You must prove through your conduct that you passed through a disciplined system.”
He cautioned the retirees against common post-service challenges such as financial mismanagement, negative societal influences, and health decline, urging them to make use of the entrepreneurial skills acquired during their training.
Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, also addressed the graduates, encouraging them to integrate smoothly into society and continue promoting peace and progress within their communities. He noted that the Centre has trained over 53,000 personnel from the Armed Forces, paramilitary agencies, and allied services since its establishment.
“We are committed to transforming NAFRC into a world-class Centre of Excellence for vocational and entrepreneurship training,” he said.
According to him, despite financial constraints, the Centre continues to expand training and support programmes for retiring personnel, youth in surrounding communities, and families of fallen servicemen.
The Commandant expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support, including the approval of starter pack increments and funding for infrastructure upgrades.
He added: “Our gratitude also goes to the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for their continuous support and strategic guidance.
“Let me once again congratulate the disengaging Participants on this occasion of your graduation. You will agree with me that, unlike all other courses you attended while in Service, this one was specifically geared towards your self-development to aid you in transitioning to civil life. As you graduate today, you are transforming from active military duty to the honourable legion of veterans who continue to make positive contributions to the unity, peace and progress of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I urge you to make yourselves available and join the Legion Chapters wherever you decide to settle.”
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has charged the media to provide timely and useful information to the public while ensuring that such information does not compromise national security.
Gen. Oluyede stated this at the opening of a 2-Day Training for Media Operatives in Nigeria, organized by the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs, in Abuja, on Tuesday.
He said the army is taking a proactive approach to media collaboration to build trust and cooperation in the pursuit of national security.
The COAS, who was represented by the Director-General, Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina said the army had strived to strike a strategic balance between protecting law-abiding citizens, national security, and the media’s right to disseminate information.
Gen. Oluyede said the training highlighted the significance of collaboration between the military and the media in addressing security challenges.
According to him, as security situations evolve, public institutions like the media must also adapt to meet the challenges of our time.
He said, “This training is timely, especially with the Nigerian Army deployed in various theatres of operation.
“Its objective is to facilitate a conducive working relationship between the military and the media.
“I believe it is essential for security agencies and the media to engage in forums like this, as both parties work towards the same purpose – a secure Nigeria where every individual is important.
“I am encouraged by the array of speakers lined up for this event, and I am confident that we will all be better equipped to advance national security.”
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Maj.-Gen. Chibuisi Gold said that addressing the evolving national security challenges required a whole-of-society approach.
Gen. Gold said that building a mutual understanding rooted in trust, accuracy, and balanced reporting between the military and media was crucial.
He said the training was part of the Nigerian army’s commitment to enhancing civil-military relations and fostering an informed, professional, and secure information environment.
According to him, this strategic collaboration aims to expose media professionals to the Army’s doctrines, operations, and communication strategies.
“Accurate and constructive reporting can galvanise national support, enhance accountability, and contribute positively to collective security.
“A well-informed media is a strategic partner in our fight against security threats.
“This initiative bridges the knowledge gap between the security sector and media practitioners, promoting responsible reporting that supports national security interests,” he said.
The CCMA urged the participants to engage actively, ask questions, and seek clarity on complex issues.
He expressed appreciation to the COAS for his strategic direction and support, expressing optimism that the engagement would strengthen the rapport between the army and the media.
In his goodwill message, the Editor-In-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Muftau Ojo, commended the Nigerian army for organising the training.
Ojo said the training underscored the need for deeper collaboration between the Nigerian media and the military, especially at a time when the nation was being assailed by multi-dimensional security challenges.
“This initiative we are witnessing today will certainly foster understanding and effective communication between the Nigerian military and the media ultimately enhancing national security and public awareness.
Also, the director of news, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Hajiya Halima Musa, stressed the need to understand how to consolidate the responsibilities of the military and media
She called for access to timely and accurate information, adding that lack of accurate information gives room for speculation.
“We are not in the business of speculation, but it is always better if the information is granted to the media so that they can report it accurately to the satisfaction of everybody towards achieving national peace,” she said.
Top military officials, including several Major Generals, converged in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Thursday, May 22, for the First 2025 Bi-Annual Conference organized by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
This crucial meeting which was held at the MSA Aliyu Hall, Command Guest House, Maimalari Cantonment comes at a time when certain areas of the North East, particularly Borno State, are experiencing a resurgence of Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks and other criminal activities.
The Nation reports that one of the key highlights of the conference was the unveiling of new “Vanquish Armoured Tankers” by the COAS, which were subsequently handed over to the Theatre Commander North East ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
According to Ishaku Duwa, a staff member of the manufacturing company, each new Vanquish Armoured Tanker boasts “Night Goggle Vision, can move for over 80kms on flat tyres, all suspension change and 360° (Degree) protection.”
Declaring the conference open, Lt. Gen. Oluyede emphasized that this “pivotal gathering will deliver strategic foresight, operational alignment and an insight to where military and community engagements converge.”
He stated that during the three-day deliberation on topical issues, the Nigerian Army, under his leadership, aims “to identify areas for improvement and develop practical solutions that will strengthen effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security.”
General Oluyede urged the Nigerian Armed Forces not to let current setbacks “dampen their spirit,” but instead to foster “commitment, sacrifices and practical strategies to end insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other form of crimes in the country.”
He further added that the Nigerian Army is dedicated to “aligning on the kinetic and non-kinetic operations with the dynamic nature of the operating environment.”
Despite acknowledging the “renewed pockets of attacks in the North East, North West and other parts of the country,” General Oluyede assured that “there is no cause for alarm, as the Nigerian Army and other security agencies are fully committed in bringing lasting peace and development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA).”
He expressed his appreciation, stating, “It is my pleasure to join you all here in the MSA Aliyu Hall, Command Guest House Maiduguri for the Chief of Army Staff First Bi-Annual Conference 2025. The highlights from the deliberations have been well received and will certainly assist in guiding the decisions and directives that shall stem from this Conference.
“My sincere appreciation goes to the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army) for holding the fort in my absence. I also extend a most profound gratitude to other principal staff officers, Formation Commanders, corps commanders, heads of Nigerian Army institutions or establishments and everyone here who has ensured that the activities went on without hitches.”
He continued, “Nevertheless, I encourage us all to continue in the same stead and passion, so that we can have an even more productive outing going forward. As we continue with the schedule of activities today, it is my expectation that this pivotal gathering will deliver strategic foresight, operational alignment and an insight to where military and community engagements converge.
“During the deliberation on topical issues, our goal will be to identify areas for improvement and develop practical solutions that will strengthen our effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security.
“Recall that during the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2024, I acknowledged the need for the Nigerian Army to commit towards aligning our kinetic and non-kinetic operations with the dynamic nature of the operating environment, ‘ the COAS said.
Addressing the evolving threat, General Oluyede observed, “It is evident that the terrorists have adopted new strategies that are aimed at shaping the battlespace in their favour.”
He lamented however that, “We have recorded a number of incidents where our brave warriors have paid the supreme sacrifice in the performance of their legitimate duty. The loss of these brave men is deeply regrettable and serves as a painful reminder of the depth of sacrifice that the officers and men of the Nigerian Army continue to make in the defence of our great nation, Nigeria. However, we must not allow these setbacks to dampen our spirit or diminish our collective resolve to stamp out that which seeks to ridicule the sanctity of our sovereignty.”
While highlighting the importance of collaboration with sister agencies, , he said, “As the Nigerian Army continues to prioritize its efforts for the best possible results, the ability to collaborate with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies and institutions at the federal and state government levels, have aided us in fulfilling our mandate.
Therefore, as we continue our deliberations and discussions, we must not forget the opportunities that inter-agency cooperation borne from effective collaborations afford us and its multiplier effect on our operations.”
The Nigeria Army Chief concluded by expressing gratitude: “At this juncture, we are immensely grateful to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic for his strategic guidance and support which have continued to ensure our successes in various operations.
I also extend my most sincere appreciation to the various state governors, heads of services and institutions, our royal fathers, members of the press and the great citizens of our dear country, Nigeria. In many ways than one, you have contributed to the fight against terrorism, criminality and the ill wind that accompanies them,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff, (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the enemies of Nigeria would soon be brought to their knees, assuring that peace and stability would be restored across the country.
Oluyede stated this at the closing ceremony of the Nigerian Army Inter-Formation Ball Games 2025 , held at the old site of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the week-long sporting events had 250 athletes who competed in handball , basketball, football and volleyball.
NAN also reports that the athletes were drawn from 1 Division, 2 Division, 3 Division, 6 Division, 8 Division, 81 Division , 82 Division, Army Headquarters Garrison and the Special Forces Command.
He vowed, “As an Army, we shall continue to discharge our constitutional responsibilities to the best of our ability, and with bright prospects that
the enemies of our country will soon be brought to their knees.”
The COAS, who was represented by the academy’s Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, commended the participants for the sportsmanship and team spirit displayed during the games.
He stated that the objectives of enhancing physical fitness and companionship among participants had been achieved.
Oluyede charged the participants to take the attributes of team spirit, respect, discipline, courage, and esprit-de-corps to their formations and units.
He congratulated 1 Division for coming tops and encouraged the losers to put up a fiercer battle in subsequent competitions.
The COAS said, “I believe that the Directorate of Army Physical Training has identified talents that can represent the Nigerian Army and the country in ball game events.”
He expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Kaduna State, the Commandant of the academy, and other officials for their invaluable support.
Oluyede also commended President Bola Tinubu for his untiring support to the Nigerian Army.
NAN reports that 1 Division emerged winner of the competition with five golds, Army Headquarters Garrison came 2nd with two golds and 6 Division came 3rd with one gold.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed June 19, for judgment in a N550 million fundamental rights suit against the Army and seven others.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned after adoption of addresses in the suit by a Deputy Director in Command Secondary School, Ipaja, Lagos, Ambrose Akhigbe.
The court ordered service on the Army and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) via substituted means on March 1.
The plaintiff, while an Assistant Director, sued the Army, COAS, General Officer Commanding 81 Division; the Commandant of Command Day Secondary School, Lagos; Lieutenant Akabor, Private Sani, Private Ahmed and Private Montero over alleged threat to life, assault, battering and maltreatment.
Akhigbe alleged that the respondents, particularly the fifth, sixth and seventh, nearly killed him for making videos of inhumane punishment meted out to a female pupil in SSS-3 who was asked to roll in muddy water.
He said while they were on their way to the Commandant’s office to resolve the issue, “the sixth, seventh and eighth respondents acting on the instructions of the fifth respondent, battered me from behind with the sole aim of killing me”.
“They were saying: ‘We will kill you, today, you bastard’ as they continued to assault me, targeting my face and neck using plank, koboko, sticks, pipe canes, irons and their fists,” the plaintiff said. He attached video evidence of the attack.
Akhigbe said the assault resulted to ceaseless flow of blood from his skull, while academic activities were halted due to a protest by staff members in solidarity.
He said the Commandant, who handed over Akabor, Sani, Ahmed and Montero to the military police for investigation, paid N65,000 and N115,000 for his medical bills.
“Shortly after the incident, my union, Association of Senior Servants Civil of Nigeria, served the respondents with a letter of demand for adequate compensation for me,” he said.
Despite service of the suit on the respondents, none of them appeared in court and nor were they represented.
Justice Abdul-Malik fixed judgment for June 19, and directed that a hearing notice be served on the respondents.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has firmly stated that the Nigerian Army is determined to prevent a resurgence of the severe insecurity that gripped the northeast region in 2015.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Mai Mala Buni at the Government House in Damaturu on Wednesday, General Oluyede, who is in Yobe to evaluate troop performance, assess operational progress, and bolster morale in the ongoing counter-insurgency efforts, made this pledge.
Lieutenant General Oluyede, who addressed Gov. Buni with other senior Yobe Government officials and his commanders, reassured the people of Yobe State that despite recent security challenges, improvements are imminent and possible.
“Having worked very hard and achieved peace in Yobe as a commander, I cannot sit and watch that peace eroded as a Chief of Army Staff now,” the COAS assured.
He disclosed plans for the deployment of additional operational enablers and the reinforcement of troops, underscoring the Army’s commitment to establishing enduring stability.
“Let the people of Yobe State rest assured, progress is coming, and they have no cause for fear,” he declared.
The Army Chief also emphasised the necessity of national unity, warning that Nigeria’s survival hinges on a collective response to insecurity.
“This fight requires everyone’s cooperation—not just Yobe’s people, but all Nigerians. If we fail, we risk losing our country,” he stressed.
Drawing attention to the escalating crisis in the Sahel region, General Oluyede cautioned about the potential for further destabilisation.
“The region is ablaze. If we allow the flames to spread south, disaster looms. We must stand strong now, greater challenges await.”
Governor Buni commended the military’s dedication and pledged the state’s continued support to ensure the restoration of peace in Yobe and across the Northeast.
The governor called on the Army to develop a workable profiling model for people will to volunteer information instead of arresting them.
The COAS’s delegation included the Theatre Commander, Major General AE Abubakar, and other senior military officers, including the Provost Marshal (Army), Major General A. Garba, and the Artillery Corps Commander, Major General ZL Abubakar, among other senior officers.
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups Against Terrorism in Nigeria (CCSGATN) has lauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Nigerian Army for their strategic and ongoing efforts in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.
In a statement by the Coalition’s Convener, Oladimeji Odeyemi, the group praised the military’s resilience despite what it described as negative propaganda by politically motivated individuals.
It said the Nigerian Army, under Lt. Gen. Oluyede, continues to show remarkable commitment to safeguarding the nation.
Odeyemi noted that independent findings indicate the deployment of intelligence, technology, and both kinetic and non-kinetic tactics by the Army has significantly boosted operational success in various theatres of war.
He further highlighted the strengthened collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the Northeast and Northwest, describing it as a key factor in recent gains against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit groups.
According to the coalition, the increasing number of victories recorded by the military is a testament to the COAS’s effective intelligence-driven strategies aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and curbing violent crime across the country.
“The various clearance operations around the Country and the overwhelming successes of our gallant troops in safe guarding the Country are good signs that the current military hierarchy are doing something productive regardless of the challenging terrain and some otherwise offensive fake news and false narratives against the Military.
“Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede promised to lead from the front for the unity and security of the country and we can say that the Nigeria Army is lucky at this particular time in the history of the country to have a head that doesn’t just believe in the unity of the country, but is preaching it”.
“The Coalition equally commended the General Olufemi Oluyede giant strides in the areas of extensive renovation of dilabilated accommodation across all barracks and formations, while also appreciating the COAS for the innovative housing scheme and loans for personnel, this is indeed a moral booster for our gallant troops.
The coalition also commended the Army for finding time to carry out Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) at intervals across the Country, noting that the diversity of the country is safe in the hands of the COAS when it comes to social responsibilities.
“The COAS and the troops have proven that the service remains committed to defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria while providing security to ensure that citizens are able to carry on with their lives without fear of harm as expected in a democracy.
“Within the short period of time, the recent successes of the military are a befitting response to those that have been peddling pro-terrorist propaganda that the President Bola Tinubu administration and its military was not doing enough to protect the civilian population. Again, the naysayers have been proven wrong.”
The coalition, however, called on patriotic Nigerians to continue to support the COAS and the troops, just as it urged the army to intensify its onslaught on terrorists, bandits and kidnappers in the country.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to securing Nigeria as he celebrated Eid-el-Fitr with wounded soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital.
The COAS made this pledge during a Sallah Luncheon with Sick and Wounded in Action Personnel and troops deployed on operations in 1 Division’s Area of Responsibility on Sunday in Kaduna.
Oluyede, represented by the Commander Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, praised their sacrifices and assured them that they had not been forgotten.
He explained that most soldiers sustained injuries during operations in the northeast and northwest, including Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fansanyamma.
The Army chief reiterated his commitment to national security, highlighting successes in clearing the corridor from Kano to Abuja.
“We are making significant gains in our operations and will continue until our country is fully secured,” he said.
In spite of acknowledging setbacks, Oluyede expressed optimism about progress, attributing successes to the troops’ resilience, alertness, and determination.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, said the security situation in the division’s Area of Responsibility remains volatile, complex, and unpredictable.
Saraso, however, stated that stability had been maintained, as seen in the improved security along the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari and Abuja-Kaduna road and rail corridors.
He noted that several kidnap victims had been rescued and released unconditionally, while many bandits had surrendered due to proactive kinetic and non-kinetic measures.
“These modest successes have been achieved through the dedication and sacrifices of our gallant troops,” he said.
In line with the COAS’s command philosophy, Saraso stressed the need to keep troops motivated to fulfil their duties effectively.
He said the luncheon was a token of appreciation for their hard work and sacrifices.
Saraso added that it reinforced the division’s commitment to securing its Area of Responsibility and eliminating safe havens for terrorists or insurgents.
He thanked the COAS for providing resources to organise the event despite the Army’s competing demands.
The Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD), Brig.-Gen. Godwin Ogoh, appreciated the COAS’s unwavering commitment to soldiers’ welfare.
“The luncheon is more than a leadership gesture; it is a message of solidarity, care, and deep respect for those who have sacrificed for our nation,” he said.
Ogoh stated that the occasion had lifted spirits and reinforced faith in courage, sacrifice, and unity in service.
“To our brave soldiers who bear the scars of battle with dignity, your resilience is an inspiration to us all,” Ogoh said.
