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  • Corpses in Army mortuaries decomposing, Lagbaja cries out

    Corpses in Army mortuaries decomposing, Lagbaja cries out

    • Army Chief begs Adelabu over blackout in barracks

    The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun  Lagbaja, has appealed to the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to intervene in the blackout in the Army barracks, noting that corpses in the mortuaries are decomposing.

    He sought the minister’s intervention in the N42 billion electricity bill debt that resulted in the disconnection of the military formations alongside other major customers.

    He made the call when he visited the minister in Abuja, according to a press statement issued by the minister’s Special Adviser, Strategic Communication and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, yesterday.

    The statement quoted the CoAS as saying: “Debt owed is loaded on the meter. So no matter the amount of credit we put, the meters pick it automatically.

    “Corpses in the Army mortuaries are decomposing and the owners of the corpses are protesting.”

    Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff disclosed that the main reason for the visit was to discuss the consequences of the power outage in army formations and the way forward.

    Lagbaja regretted that some barracks and cantonments had been in total blackout since January.

    He further stated that it is impossible for the Army to raise funds to pay the entire debt and solicited for liquidation as was done in 2005 by the then President.

    He assured the minister of the army’s unflinching support towards developing intelligence strategies in curbing the menace of electricity infrastructure vandalism.

    Responding, Adelabu assured him of his readiness to dialogue with distribution companies (DISCOs) to relieve the Nigerian Army of its electricity debt burden amounting to N42 billion.

    Read Also: Lagbaja hails Otti’s efforts to improve security

    The Army Chief had described blackouts in army barracks and cantonments as security threat.

    Quoting the minister, Tunji reiterated the importance of liquidity and funding in the sector, adding that the debts could not be written off, but the minister would intervene in order to restructure the debt payment if there was assurance of regular payment by the Nigerian Army.

    Adelabu further revealed that debt owed by distribution and generating companies (GENCOs) is not the only challenge bedeviling the power sector.

    He added that vandalization of power infrastructure, which often leads to national grid collapse, theft, inefficiency in billing and collection process, poor metering gap, liquidity, shortage in gas supply, transmission stations being blown up with explosives in volatile areas are all  part  of the issues being experienced in the power sector.

    “The fundamental issues in the power sector value chain could be traced back to the last 50 years and a government which is barely eight months cannot use a magic wand to proffer solution. “There is a saying that you won’t know what is happening in Rome until you get to Rome,” he said

    The minister, who acknowledged that power outage is not peculiar to army barracks but a national issue, said the DISCOs and GENCOs are profit-oriented organisations and “we can only plead with them to adopt a repayment plan on a monthly basis instead of embedding the whole debt in their meter.

    While encouraging the Army to continue assisting the ministry in safeguarding power facilities across the nation, Adelabu pledged to seek collaboration for the Army through any of the development partners for installation of Solar PVs and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) as alternative power supply in Army barracks and cantonment.

  • Corpses in Army mortuaries decomposing, Lagbaja cries out

    Corpses in Army mortuaries decomposing, Lagbaja cries out

    Chief of Army Staff ( CAS)  Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun  Lagbaja has appealed to the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu to intervene over the blackout in the Army barracks, noting that corpses in the mortuaries are decomposing.

    He sought the Minister’s intervention in the N42 billion electricity bill debt that resulted in the disconnection of the military formations alongside other major customers.

    He made the call when he visited the Minister in Abuja, according to the Minister’s Special Adviser,  Strategic Communication and Media Relations,  Bolaji Tunji, in a statement yesterday.

    The statement quoted the CAS as saying “Debt owed is loaded on the meter, so no matter the amount of credit we put, the meters pick it  automatically . 

    “Corpses in the Army mortuaries are decomposing and the owners of the corpses are protesting.”

    Lagbaja regretted that some barracks and cantonment since  January  have been in total blackout.

    Read Also: Lagbaja hails Otti’s efforts to improve security

    He further stated that it is impossible for the Army to raise funds to pay the entire debt and solicited for liquidation as was done in 2005 by the then President.

    He assured the Minister of the army’s unflinching support towards developing intelligence strategies in curbing the menace of electricity infrastructure vandalism. 

    Responding, Adelabu assured him  of his readiness to dialogue with Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to relieve the Nigerian Army of its electricity debt burden amounting to N42bn. 

     The Army Chief had described blackouts in army barracks and cantonment as security threats. 

    The Minister, who acknowledged that Power outages is not peculiar to army barracks  but a national issue said  the DISCOs and GENCOs are profit-oriented organisations and  “we can only plead with them to adopt a repayment plan on a monthly basis instead of embedding the whole debt in their meter.

    While encouraging the Army to continue assisting the Ministry in safeguarding power facilities across the nation, Adelabu pledged to seek collaboration for the Army through any of the development partners for installation of Solar PVs and Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) as alternative power supply in Army barracks and cantonment.

  • Lagbaja warns troops against negative use of social media

    Lagbaja warns troops against negative use of social media

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.- Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja has cautioned troops against negative influence of the social media.

    He said social media has, often times, been used to spread false and noxious information.

    He cautioned troops to avoid being  “manipulated into making misguided decisions or indulging in illegalities, contrary to extant regulations and core values of the Nigerian Army.”

    The army chief said this during his operational visit to Headquarters 82 Division Nigerian Army, Enugu, on Tuesday, January 9.

    According to a statement by army spokesperson, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Wednesday, January 10, the COAS charged troops of 82 Division and Joint Task Force South East Operation UDOKA to “remain loyal and committed to their constitutional responsibilities as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to guarantee the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation, as well as peaceful coexistence of the nation’s citizenry.”

    Read Also: COAS Lagbaja vows to strengthen Army’s capacity against Nigeria’s enemies

    The statement said: “The COAS informed that the Federal Government has made commendable interventions in the areas of troops’ welfare and provision of combat enablers. He informed that the government had settled the backlog of unpaid Group Life Assurance that had accumulated since 2011. 

    “He also revealed that the Nigerian Army has equally commenced the payment of troops’ Accident Insurance, adding that it is imperative for troops to reciprocate these motivating welfare interventions by remaining loyal , disciplined and upscaling their operational effectiveness in the fight against security challenges in the country.

    “The COAS also paid tribute to the people and Government of Enugu and Ebonyi States for their support and cordial relationship with troops of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army.”

    According to the statement, the COAS also paid a courtesy visit to the Government House Enugu, where the Governor, Peter Mbah, acknowledged that “peace has progressively returned to their respective states.”

    It said the governor lauded the troops for their commitment in ensuring the restoration of peace and stability which has provided the enabling environment for socio-economic development in the states.

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  • COAS Lagbaja vows to strengthen Army’s capacity against Nigeria’s enemies

    COAS Lagbaja vows to strengthen Army’s capacity against Nigeria’s enemies

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) , Lieutenant General Toareed Lagbaja has reassured of the Nigerian Army’s resilience and readiness to adequately strengthen it capacity with necessary fighting equipment and enablers against the nation’s enemies.

    He described the coming year to the army as one with lofty strategic commitment and dedication to overcoming security challenges 

    He said the army was poised to driving a responsive training and motivation approach to further brace its capacity and responsibility as an institution.

    “We will soon take delivery of more operational equipment including helicopters and other enablers to further our course against internal and external security challenges”

    Lagbaja made the remarks on christmas day at the 8 Division headquarters, Giginya Barracks  Sokoto while joining other personnels and families to celebrate the occasion and New Year season.

    He said the army was fast bracing to caliberate efforts at towards ensuring the protection of the country’s territorial integrity.

    Read Also: Tinubu to grace COAS’ annual conference in Maiduguri

    Lagbaja, who noted that the country was faced with challenges in delivering it’s core responsibility, vowed that nothing was unsumountable while adding that “the NA headquarters will continue to build it’s physical and moral capacity as well fighting power through driving responsive synergy with other agencies for  safety and peaceful activities to thrive in the country.”

    While stressing that the army was concerned about the welfare and well being of its personnel and families, the army Chief said it was of utmost importance to support those on duty as morale booster.

    “I am delighted to be with you and to appreciate as week thank our gallant officers and men in wieldering every storm that came their way in defence of the country .

     “I will use this space to thank our gallant troops and families for their purposeful and unwavery sacrifices and dedication in serving and keeping the country together. 

    “Is a fact that do many of the troops are not able to make it to Sokoto to be with their families today because they are duty bound to and responsible to stand on guard. We appreciate and thank them for their resilience in discharging their constitutional role “, the COAS said.

    In that direction, Lagbaja disclosed that the NA was responsive and sensitive to driving initiatives many welfare projects citing example of  the newly commissioned indoor multi purpose sports hall of the Giginya Barracks for the benefit of officers and men.

  • Why I exited from Lagbaja’s band – Ego

    Why I exited from Lagbaja’s band – Ego

    An ally of the famous singer Lagbaja, Nwakaego Ihenacho Ogbaro, popularly known as Ego, has broken her silence about her exit from the veteran musician’s Africano band in 2007.

    In a tweet via her X account, Ego, who was featured on songs like “Konko Below”, “Nothing Far You”, and “Never Far Away” with Lagbaja, urged her fans to stop spreading false narratives about her departure from the Africano band.

    She tweeted: “We need to stop this “When Ego left Lagbaja, everything “dabarued” (lol) narrative…We are both doing very well in our separate endeavours. End of story. Gracias!”

    Read Also: Open letter to COAS Lagbaja

    The singer revealed that she left Lagbaja’s band because it was time for her to move on, but that they might collaborate again in the future.

    When a fan urged her to settle her differences with Lagbaja, she agreed.

    Ego said: “No it’s not. There is nothing to resolve. Just a case of when it’s time to move, you meeuuve. Working together again is not an impossibility.”

  • Insecurity: Army will change narratives, drive robust strategic approach – COAS Lagbaja

    Insecurity: Army will change narratives, drive robust strategic approach – COAS Lagbaja

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Toareed Lagbaja on Wednesday, November 22, reassured that the Nigeria Army would continue to remain focused in its drive to change the security narrative in the country through the robust implementation of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies that span it lines and measures of operations.

    The Army chief said the best approach to dealing with contemporary security challenges in the country is by ensuring synergy that drives the collective strength of individuals and organisations to defeat the common enemy.

    Lagbaja spoke as the Guest of Honour while declaring open the 2023 Nigeria Army Civil-Miliatry Cooperation 4th Quarter Media Chat held at the 8 Division of the Nigeria Army Sokoto Command Guest House.

    He said: “Only collective efforts will guarantee the effective decimation of insecurity and restoration of peace in the country.”

    The theme of the chat is: “Media as a Force Multiplier in Nigeria Army Operations.”

    Represented by the GOC 8 Division of the Nigeria Army, Sokoto, Major General Godwin Mutkut, Lagbaja noted that the essence and desire for peace and security required harnessing the collective strength of all well-meaning Nigerians and organisations.

    Accordingly, the Army boss assured of responsive engagement of the media towards deepening strategies as well to complement the army efforts in the field of operations.

    He noted: “The choice of the theme is apt and aimed at providing an avenue for robust deliberation on issues of concern relating to the Nigerian Army as well as enable media practitioners from the Northwest Zone actively participate for sustained support to our operations.”

    Mutkut, who is also the Commander of Northwest JTF Operation Hadarin Daji, disclosed that the military had taken delivery of some modern equipment and other combat enablers while provision for more had been finalized.

    Lagbaja added: “In consonance with my philosophy, measures have been in place to ensure that our troops are well trained and motivated to adequately discharge their constitutional responsibilities.”

    While commending Mr President, Lagbaja said the support of patriotic Nigerians was a critical and fundamental aspect in the attainment of the Nigeria Army mandate noting that the Nigeria Army belonged to Nigerians and the military was for the people.

    In his welcome address, the Army Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo explained that the objective of the media chat was to further propagate the activities of the military as well as engage the media in strengthening the relationship with the civil populace for mutual benefits.

    Read Also: Open letter to COAS Lagbaja

    According to Ugbo, military-media relation was crucial and should be kept agile through responsive engagements noting that the army was a constitutional creation for the people hence, the need to keep them informed of the well-being and progress of the army.

    “The media is a stimulant for social and national accountability, credibility, and development”, he pointed out while noting that the engagement has been fruitful and impactful.

    He disclosed that the army was organising an interface space with social media influencers and members of the emerging new media to further deepen engagements with the public through seminars and meetings with traditional, political, and institutional leaders in the ecosystem.

  • Delta youths unable to meet 60 percent of Army quota – COAS

    Delta youths unable to meet 60 percent of Army quota – COAS

    The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja has expressed concerns over the inability of youths from Delta state to fill its quota into the Army.

    He said Delta State over the last two recruitment exercises has failed to meet 60 percent of the quota reserved for it.

    General Lagbaja, who was represented by Brigadier General Timi Mackintosh, spoke during a sensitisation and advertisement tour to Delta Governor, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba, Delta Capital.

    Lagbaja said the sensitisation campaign was necessary because it was discovered that youths in Rivers and Delta States have often shunned recruitment exercises by the Nigerian Army.

    He encouraged youths in both States  to enlist into the army because the recruitment process is transparent, adding that representatives from Federal Character Commission, state and local governments are involved.

    Read Also: Military graduates battle-ready troops to fight terrorists, bandits, others

    According to him: ” I have noticed that Delta and Rivers states in the South south region are usually the least when it comes to recruitment.For the past two sets of recruitment 84 and 85 intakes, Delta has been unable to meet 60% of its quota and this is worrisome.This is not good and does not go down well with the military authorities.”

    He appealed to the media to inform the youths of the immense opportunities enlisting into the Nigerian Army offers.

    He added that these include having a career, job progression and a good pension when one retires.

    He said closing date for the 86 Regular Intake has been extended for one week to allow more youths in the States to participate, adding that the criteria for enlistment include being a Nigerian, being medically and psychological fit and aged between 18-26 for non tradesmen, while the upper age limit for Nurses and Midwives is 30 years old.

    He said the two recruitment categories are tradesmen and non tradesmen. Youths who present themselves for enlistment must have a minimum of four credits while tradesmen must possess certification.

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori represented by Secretary to Delta State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu , said the state’s inability to meet its quota is worrisome, particularly with the high unemployment rate in the country.

    He urged the Nigerian Army to inform his administration in the future in good time to enable it mobilise youths to enlist.

    He said his administration was happy with the extension and expressed optimism that the one week grace period will be used to massively mobilise youths for the current recruitment exercise.

  • Lagbaja’s backup singer Ego loses husband

    Lagbaja’s backup singer Ego loses husband

    Ego Iheancho, who was popularly known years ago as a backup vocalist to legendary singer, Lagbaja, has lost her husband, Niyi Ogbaro.

    Ogbaro, according to Chris Kehinde, passed away on Wednesday in the United States.

    He shared a photo of the couple on Instagram page on Thursday with the caption: “Ohh No Victor Niyi Ogbaro this can’t be true. Victor, and husband of Ego died today from what I just learnt. May his soul Rest In Peace.”

    Read Also:Lagbaja visits troops in Niger, urges them to remain resolute

    Ego Iheanacho and Ogbaro tied the knot in 2009.

    Before her husband’s death, Ego removed Ogbaro from her social media accounts which sparked rumours of trouble in their marriage.

  • Lagbaja, Wande Coal, Adekunle Gold thrill at JJW

    Lagbaja, Wande Coal and Adekunle Gold over the weekend mesmerized guests with a scintillating fusion of music at the Johnnie, Jazz & Whisky (JJW) music showcase, which held at Lekki Special Events Center, Lagos.

    Adekunle Gold opened the night with some of his hit songs such as Ire, By You and Orente, before the masked one; Lagbaja came on stage and captioned the audience with smooth renditions of Never Far Away, Nothing For You and Konko Below.

    Lagbaja later invited Cobhams Asuquo who was among the guest to sing a verse with him to the delight of fans.

    Soulful singer, Wande Coal was not left behind as he ended the magical night with fine melodies from his crowd-pleasing hit songs.

    The JJW evening of glitz and glamour, style and flavours, was another night of success for Johnnie, Jazz & Whisky; a truly unforgettable experience.

  • Nigerians saxophone player need to improve – OLUJAZZ

    A professional saxophone player, Olu Alabi popularly called Olu Jazz has said some Nigerians saxophone player needs to up their game as most saxophone players in Nigeria are not playing the right way and needs to improve.

    Olu Jazz made the call during his mentorship session for young Nigerians saxophone players held for beginners and intermediate saxophone players recently in Lagos.

    The training according to OLUJAZZ is geared towards helping young and aspiring people become better saxophone players.

    OLUJAZZ in interview said he got inspired to organize the training after the noticing that a lot of Sax players in Nigeria need improvement.

    “I started playing sax in the 90’s. It wasn’t all rosy for me though as I had to quit school after I couldn’t afford money for my tuition fee. There was a time I didn’t have a personal saxophone for 3years after learning, but i thank God that everything is going as planned now and I have I spent two years training on saxophone in America.”

    “I decided to oganise this training after noticing that most saxophone players in the country needs upgrade on their sax skills and it also a form giving back to the society and it was why the lecture was organised for free to young sax players. I see this as an alternative to provide job to young once, just like i also make my living through this instrument.”

    On how he got the name Olu talkative, Olujazz said the name became a household name after ace comedian, Kofi, said he talked too much on the sax.

    Also, Issac Gerrad a singer and song writer said he has been playing the saxophone for the last nine years.

    He said, “I have been a professional R&B singer for the last 10years. I play drums and this training is opportunity for the younger generation.”

    “I have worked with Falz, Tiwa Savage, MI, Sound Sultan and i believe music itself is a work and if you keep on working hard, at the end of the day you will get there”.

    Read Also:Foundation offers free training

    A student of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAB) participant at the training, Boluwatife Ojo said the organizer; OluJazz has been a very good mentor to him.

    According to, “I have been playing this instrument for past four years now and what has really helped me is meeting sax players like with Yemi sax, Yori Omole, and other professional saxophone.

    A saxophone engineer in interview The Nation, Akintoye oluwaseun said young saxophone players need to learn from professionals’ sax players.

    “I am a sax repairer and I have worked on all types of saxophone. I also play saxophone, though for fun as I prefer repairing. I have been working on saxophone for the last sixteen years.”

    “I learnt this work from Y.S Akinbosun who once worked with Fela Anikulapo Kuti. I know every single part of this instrument. I know fault of  the sax I already know the faulty parts, once I have my tools am good to go no matter the problem of the saxophone I’ll fix it.”

    “I have worked with Yemi sax, Yori Omole, Olu Jazz, Segun Atoyebi, Lagbaja, almost all popular professional saxophonists in Nigeria.” Akintoye said.

    Oluwaseun further advice young saxophone player to learn from professionals, keep rehearsing and be committed.