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Tag: Nigerian Army

  • GOC 2 Division Assesses Troops’ Operational Readiness, Commissions Welfare Projects in Lokoja

    GOC 2 Division Assesses Troops’ Operational Readiness, Commissions Welfare Projects in Lokoja

    From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, has assessed the operational readiness of troops during a working visit to the Headquarters of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Lokoja, Kogi State.The visit took place on Tuesday and focused on evaluating ongoing operations, personnel welfare, and infrastructure development within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.In a statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the GOC commissioned several projects executed by the Brigade to enhance troop welfare and improve operational efficiency.

    Among the projects commissioned were a remodelled Quarter Guard and three blocks of two-bedroom, two-family semi-detached quarters for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. The facilities are aimed at improving living conditions for personnel and boosting morale.Major General Nnebeife also inspected the renovated National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Members’ Lodge. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work carried out and commended the Brigade leadership for prioritising personnel welfare and creating a conducive working and living environment for troops.

    Addressing officers and soldiers during the visit, the GOC praised the professionalism, discipline, and commitment displayed by troops of 12 Brigade. He urged them to remain loyal, disciplined, and dedicated to their duties in the face of evolving security challenges.

    He further charged the personnel to sustain the current operational tempo and strengthen cooperation with sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and security within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.According to him, synergy among security agencies and support from host communities remain critical to achieving sustainable security outcomes.The visit also provided an opportunity for the GOC to interact with senior officers of the Brigade and review ongoing efforts to address security concerns in Kogi State and its environs.

    Several dignitaries were present at the event, including the Security Adviser to the Kogi State Government, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd); the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard, Commodore A.O. Ojo; and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kogi State Command, Commander C.E. Aletan.Also in attendance were members of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association and the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association, alongside senior officers of the Brigade.The operational visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued emphasis on troop welfare, infrastructure development, and inter-agency collaboration as key components of effective military operations.

  • Alleged Terrorism Financing: Ex-Army Chief Buratai Files N1bn Defamation Suit Against Colleague

    Alleged Terrorism Financing: Ex-Army Chief Buratai Files N1bn Defamation Suit Against Colleague

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has filed a N1 billion defamation suit against a fellow retired senior military officer, Maj. Gen. Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi (rtd), at the Kaduna State High Court over alleged claims linking him to terrorism financing.The Buratai defamation suit, filed on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Kaduna Judicial Division of the High Court, accuses Ali-Keffi of making and circulating false, malicious and defamatory statements connecting Buratai to Boko Haram suspects, terrorism financing, and the alleged illegal release and concealment of terror suspects.

    In the suit, Buratai contends that the defendant granted interviews in 2025 in which he allegedly insinuated that the former Army Chief maintained links with terror financiers and was involved in conspiracies to shield individuals connected to terrorism during his tenure as COAS.The plaintiff, through his legal team—A.I. Aliyu and A.M. Hassan of Law Plus Consult—is seeking judicial declarations that the statements attributed to Ali-Keffi and published on multiple online media platforms are defamatory and harmful to his reputation.Buratai stated that the publications were widely circulated on online news platforms and social media channels, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp and Instagram, giving the allegations extensive national and international exposure.

    In his statement of claim, the former Army Chief described the allegations as entirely false and baseless. He maintained that he has never been investigated, indicted or convicted for terrorism, terrorism financing or any related offence by any authority within or outside Nigeria.He argued that the statements portrayed him as corrupt, unpatriotic and complicit in acts that threaten Nigeria’s national security. According to him, this portrayal has gravely damaged his reputation, honour and standing both locally and internationally.

    Buratai further alleged that Ali-Keffi acted recklessly and maliciously, noting that the defendant reportedly admitted in the same publications that no investigation had established Buratai’s involvement in terrorism financing.As part of the reliefs sought, Buratai is asking the court to compel the defendant to immediately retract the alleged defamatory statements. He is also seeking an unreserved public apology to be published with equal prominence on Sahara Reporters, two national newspapers, and across all social media platforms where the statements were circulated.

    The plaintiff is claiming N1 billion as general damages for libel and injury to reputation. He cited the severity of terrorism-related allegations, their wide dissemination, and the defendant’s status as a retired senior military officer as aggravating factors.In addition, Buratai is seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Ali-Keffi from further publishing or repeating the alleged defamatory statements. He is also asking the court to order the defendant to pay the full cost of the suit, including solicitor’s fees.The writ of summons directs Ali-Keffi to enter an appearance within 21 days of service. Failure to do so, the court noted, may result in the matter being heard in his absence.As of the time of filing this report, no hearing date has been fixed, as the defendant is yet to respond to the suit.

  • Troops of 12 Brigade Rescue Six Kidnap Victims in Ejiba and Saminaka Forests, Kogi State

    Troops of 12 Brigade Rescue Six Kidnap Victims in Ejiba and Saminaka Forests, Kogi State

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have rescued six kidnapped victims during a coordinated search-and-rescue operation conducted across the Ejiba and Saminaka forest corridors in Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas of Kogi State.The operation, according to the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, is part of intensified efforts to eliminate banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across the state. He said the mission benefited from sustained air and ground offensives, supported by the Nigeria Police helicopter.

    Abdullahi explained that troops deployed at Patrol Base Ejiba intercepted the victims following increased pressure on the kidnappers’ hideouts.“The rescued persons were found in stable condition and confirmed to have been released by the bandits owing to the sustained pressure mounted by troops during the joint operations,” he stated.

    Five of the victims have undergone debriefing and were reunited with their families in Egbe and Ejiba communities of Yagba West Local Government Area. The sixth victim, who was found in a weaker condition at the point of rescue, is currently receiving medical treatment.The Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security across Kogi State, assuring residents that troops will continue to intensify patrols, dominate forested areas, and deny criminals any freedom of action.

  • Nigerian Army Troops Intercept Vehicle Carrying 276kg of Cannabis in Kogi

    Nigerian Army Troops Intercept Vehicle Carrying 276kg of Cannabis in Kogi

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have intercepted a vehicle transporting 276 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa during a security operation in the Agbede response area of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The operation forms part of the Army’s intensified campaign against drug trafficking networks linked to banditry and other criminal activities across the state.In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the Army said the interception took place on 1 December 2025 during routine patrols.According to the statement, troops stopped a red Toyota Camry with registration number ABJ 325 LA, which was conveying the illegal substances from Ekiti State and heading toward Borno State. The driver, identified as Mr. Hamisu Sule, attempted to escape upon sighting the checkpoint but was pursued and arrested along the Apata–Lokoja road in Lokoja Local Government Area.

    Troops recovered 306 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 276 kg, from the vehicle. The suspect and the seized items have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kogi Command, for further investigation and prosecution.The Army noted that the operation was one of several measures designed to frustrate the use of Kogi’s transit routes by criminal syndicates and to curb the movement of illicit drugs that fuel insecurity across the region.The 12 Brigade reassured residents that the Nigerian Army remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, maintaining strong patrols across vulnerable areas, and preventing criminal elements from operating freely within the state.

  • Troops Foil Bandits’ Attack, Rescue Kidnapped Victim in Kogi

    Troops Foil Bandits’ Attack, Rescue Kidnapped Victim in Kogi

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have foiled a bandit attack and rescued a kidnapped victim during a security operation conducted around the Oshokoshoko–Obajana axis in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.The operation, aimed at curbing banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the state, took place in the early hours of November 25, 2025.

    In a statement, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Lokoja, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, said the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of armed criminals escorting abducted persons through the corridor.According to him, troops deployed at the Kabba Patrol Base, working in collaboration with hybrid security forces, launched a special ambush to intercept the bandits.“The troops laid in wait and made contact with the armed criminals who were moving with an unconfirmed number of fighters,” Abdullahi said.He added that the bandits opened fire upon sighting the troops but were overpowered by the soldiers’ superior firepower.“

    One bandit was neutralised while others fled with gunshot wounds,” he stated.The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle during the operation. They also rescued a kidnapped victim who was found weak and distressed before being evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.The Army urged residents to continue supporting ongoing security operations with credible information.Abdullahi assured the public that the Nigerian Army would “remain steadfast in sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring that communities across Kogi State are safe and secure.”

  • Gen. Ali-Keffi Alleges Retirement and Detention After Capturing Boko Haram Leader in Letter to Tinubu

    Gen. Ali-Keffi Alleges Retirement and Detention After Capturing Boko Haram Leader in Letter to Tinubu

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi (rtd) has alleged that he was compulsorily retired, arrested, and detained after leading an operation that captured what he described as the “real leader” of Boko Haram. He made the claims in a letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which circulated widely on social media on Tuesday.

    In the letter, the retired General said the events occurred after he supervised an elite task force that arrested key figures within the Boko Haram insurgency network. Instead of being commended for the breakthrough, he said he was removed from service and held in solitary confinement for 64 days.

    Ali-Keffi, a former General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, explained that he was specifically appointed to lead Operation Service Wide, a presidentially approved counter-terrorism investigation unit. The operation, he said, uncovered the masterminds behind Boko Haram activities and exposed a network of alleged terror financiers that included government officials, military officers, and financial institutions.

    According to him, the operation’s findings triggered immediate pushback from powerful individuals who sought to suppress the revelations and halt further investigations.

    “The moment we arrested some of these individuals and exposed the financial pipelines of terror, the backlash began,”
    Ali-Keffi stated in the letter.

    He accused unnamed interests of orchestrating his compulsory retirement and subsequent detention to silence him and derail the operation’s progress.

    Ali-Keffi also raised concerns about the death of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, who died in a plane crash in 2021. He said Attahiru strongly supported the work of *Operation Service Wide* and was committed to dismantling terror financing networks.

    The retired General implied that Attahiru’s death may require renewed scrutiny, urging President Tinubu to order a transparent investigation into both the plane crash and what he described as a pattern of internal sabotage undermining Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.

    The allegations, now gaining public attention, have sparked widespread calls for accountability and a thorough government response. Security analysts and civic groups are urging the federal government to address the claims due to their potential implications for national security.

    While the federal government has not issued an official reaction, Ali-Keffi’s claims have intensified discussions about internal resistance to counter-terrorism operations. Analysts say the accusations, if verified, could point to systemic issues within Nigeria’s security architecture.

    Ali-Keffi maintained that Nigeria’s struggle against terrorism may continue to face setbacks unless internal corruption and vested interests are confronted decisively.

    His letter concludes with an appeal for President Tinubu to revisit the findings of Operation Service Wide, investigate the alleged sabotage, and restore public confidence in the nation’s fight against terror.

  • Army Reaffirms Commitment to Curb Banditry, Assures Citizens of Safety in Kogi

    Army Reaffirms Commitment to Curb Banditry, Assures Citizens of Safety in Kogi

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    The Commander of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar-Sidi, has assured residents of Kogi State that the military remains fully committed to combating banditry and restoring peace across the state.

    Brig. Gen. Umar-Sidi gave the assurance on Tuesday while addressing members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council, during a courtesy visit to his office in Lokoja.

    He emphasized that the Nigerian Army will continue to intensify operations against bandits and other criminal elements to ensure that citizens live without fear.

    “The Army will continue to do its best in ensuring that bandits terrorizing Kogi State are dealt with, so that people can live peacefully,” he stated.

    The commander appealed to Nigerians to support the armed forces and other security agencies, stressing that negative portrayals of the country and its military dampen the morale of soldiers who risk their lives daily to safeguard the nation.

    “Our officers and men are being killed in the line of duty to keep this nation safe. Any negative perception or report against the military discourages those making sacrifices for the country,” he said.

    Brig. Gen. Umar-Sidi also urged Nigerians to avoid interpreting national issues through religious or ethnic lenses, noting that unity and collective responsibility are vital in addressing insecurity.

    “Whenever challenges arise, we must come together as one people to find solutions for the growth and development of the country. Nigeria is our only home, and we must place national interest above personal gain,” he added.

    He commended the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel for its visit and pledged the Army’s readiness to strengthen its partnership with the media to enhance public awareness of the 12 Brigade’s operations in the state.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Segun Ademola Salami of Channels Television, commended the efforts of the 12 Brigade in combating kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism in Kogi State.

    Salami, who led the delegation, noted that many of the Army’s achievements in the state were underreported and pledged greater collaboration to ensure the public is better informed about the military’s successes.

    “The military, especially the 12 Brigade Command, has been doing a lot in dealing with kidnappers, bandits, and terrorists. We are ready to partner with you and give these efforts the visibility they deserve,” he said.

    The 12 Brigade Command, headquartered in Lokoja, plays a strategic role in maintaining security in Kogi and neighboring states within the North Central region.

  • Governor Yusuf Commends Nigerian Army’s Efforts Against Banditry, Donates Vehicles to Support Security Operations

    Governor Yusuf Commends Nigerian Army’s Efforts Against Banditry, Donates Vehicles to Support Security Operations

    By Jabiru Hassan

    Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their swift and coordinated response to recent banditry incidents in parts of the state.

    The commendation was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

    Governor Yusuf made the remarks while receiving the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Muhammad Wase, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Kano.

    Major General Wase, who was in Kano to assess the security situation in Shanono and Tsanyawa Local Government Areas, expressed nostalgia about his early connection to the state, recalling that his late father, Colonel Muhammad Abdullahi Wase, once served as Military Sole Administrator of Kano in 1994.

    “I am here on a familiarity visit. Since assuming command at 1 Division, I have visited the scenes of recent attacks to commend our gallant officers for their courage and professionalism,” the GOC said.

    Governor Yusuf praised the Nigerian Army for its steadfast commitment to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of lives and property. He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing service chiefs who, he said, have shown genuine dedication to improving national security.

    “We commend the Nigerian Army for its proactive efforts in safeguarding our communities. My administration will continue to support the security agencies with the necessary logistics and resources to maintain peace and order across the state,” the Governor stated.

    As part of the state government’s ongoing support for security operations, Governor Yusuf announced the donation of **10 Hilux patrol vehicles and 60 motorcycles** to the Joint Task Force operating in the affected local government areas.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to tackling banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling through sustained collaboration with security agencies.

    The visit, officials noted, reflects the strong partnership between the Kano State Government and the Nigerian Army in ensuring lasting peace and security across the region.

  • Middle Belt Forum Commends Tinubu, Hails Gen. Musa’s Service as CDS, Congratulates New COAS

    Middle Belt Forum Commends Tinubu, Hails Gen. Musa’s Service as CDS, Congratulates New COAS

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing and supporting one of its illustrious sons, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), who retired on Sunday as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), marking the end of a distinguished military career.

    In a statement signed by the MBF National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Luka Binniyat, the Forum expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for granting General Musa, an indigene of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna, the rare opportunity to serve in such an exalted capacity.

    “General Musa’s tenure as CDS will be remembered for his courage, humility, and strategic leadership in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” the Forum stated. “His commitment to unity within the armed forces and his efforts to boost troop morale amid complex security challenges earned him the admiration of both his subordinates and Nigerians across divides.”

    The MBF described General Musa as a disciplined, professional, and patriotic officer whose leadership exemplified the best values of the Nigerian military. The Forum noted that his service remains an inspiration to young people across the Middle Belt and the country at large.

    “We are proud of his achievements and the inspiration he represents to the youth of the Middle Belt and beyond,” the statement added. “We are confident that President Tinubu will continue to draw from General Musa’s vast experience and patriotism in future national defence-related assignments.”

    The Forum also congratulated Major General Waidi Shaibu, another distinguished son of the Middle Belt from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, on his appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

    Highlighting General Shaibu’s impressive record, the MBF commended his leadership as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East, where he played a pivotal role in degrading Boko Haram’s capabilities and leading counter-banditry operations in the North-West.

    “His focus on intelligence-led warfare, troop welfare, and civil-military collaboration has significantly enhanced Nigeria’s counterterrorism framework,” the statement noted. “We urge General Shaibu to carry out his new responsibilities with fairness, discipline, and renewed patriotism as the nation looks to him and his team for peace and stability.”

    The Forum further congratulated all newly appointed Service Chiefs and prayed for divine wisdom, cooperation, and unity among them in the collective effort to secure Nigeria and strengthen national defence.

  • Gov. Ododo Hails Appointment of Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu as New Chief of Army Staff

    Gov. Ododo Hails Appointment of Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu as New Chief of Army Staff

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated Major General Waidi Shaibu on his appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, describing the development as a moment of pride for the people of Kogi State.

    In a statement issued in Lokoja by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Governor Ododo commended President Tinubu for what he described as a demonstration of fairness, equity, and merit in national appointments.

    “The Kogi State Government expresses profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing Major General Waidi Shaibu, a proud son of Kogi State, as the new Chief of Army Staff,” the statement read.

    Governor Ododo said Major General Shaibu’s elevation reflects his track record of professionalism, discipline, and commitment to duty, adding that his leadership will further strengthen the Nigerian Army’s capacity to defend the nation and advance ongoing efforts to enhance security across the country.

    “The appointment of Major General Shaibu is a source of pride and inspiration to the people of Kogi State,” the Governor said. “We are confident that his experience and dedication will contribute immensely to the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the area of national security.”

    Governor Ododo also reaffirmed the loyalty and support of the Kogi State Government to President Tinubu’s administration, pledging continued collaboration with the Federal Government to promote peace and security.

    While congratulating the new Army Chief on his well-deserved appointment, the Governor prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and protection as Major General Shaibu undertakes his duties in service to the nation.

    “We pray that God grants the new Chief of Army Staff wisdom and courage to excel in his new assignment, ensuring that Nigeria continues to enjoy peace and stability,” Ododo added.

    The appointment of Major General Shaibu has been widely welcomed in Kogi State, with many describing it as a recognition of the state’s growing contributions to national service and leadership.