NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Defence/Security

Suspected Indian lady arrested for drug trafficking at Kano airport

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Heroin

By Ibironke Ariyo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), has intercepted a 42-year-old Indian lady at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, (MAKIA), Kano, with 72 parcels of heroin.

A statement by NDLEA’s Director, Media And Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi on Sunday in Abuja said that the prohibited substances were factory sealed in wafer wraps and packaged as chocolates.

Babafemi said that the class A drug consignment weighing a total of 11 kilograms was recovered from her luggage after a thorough search.

This, he said followed credible intelligence, during an inward clearance of Qatar Airways flight QR1431 from Bangkok, Thailand via Vietnam and Doha at the arrival hall of the Kano airport on Friday, March 14.

Babafemi said that the arrest of the suspect signified a growing attempt by drug trafficking organisations to hire white ladies and foreign nationals to move illicit drugs through the Nigerian borders.

“A bid that vigilant NDLEA operatives have consistently frustrated with the aid of modern technological tools and proactive intelligence, “he said.

In another interdiction operation in Kano, NDLEA officers on Thursday, March 20 arrested a 45-year-old male suspect with a 50-litre steel gas cylinder at Gadar Tamburawa, along Zaria- Kano road.

“Based on credible intelligence, welding tools were later used to cut the giant cylinder after which 50,000 pills of tramadol 225mg concealed in it were extracted,”he said.

“Meanwhile, a 40-year-old male was nabbed at Gunduwawa area of Kano on Wednesday, March 19 with 27kg skunk, a strain of cannabis.”

Babafemi said that another female suspect was arrested with 424 bottles of codeine-based syrup at Lungun Bulala Yalwa area of the state on Tuesday.

“Also, two male suspects were also nabbed with 67.5kg skunk in Mushin, Lagos state.

“100.8kg of same psychoactive substance was recovered from the store of two fleeing suspects in Anifowoshe area of Mushin.

“Another suspect was also arrested in Apapa with 4.5kg skunk; 600grams of tramadol 225mg and 30litres of codeine syrup on Tuesday.

“Another suspect also was arrested same day in Ikotun area of the state with different quantities of cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine, “he said.

Across the country, Babafemi said that NDLEA Commands and formations continued to intensify their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy sensitisation.

He also added that the agency engaged in  sensitisation in schools, markets, motor parts, work places and worship centres in the past week.

This, he said included: WADA sensitisation lecture to students and staff of Chrisland School, Ikeja, Lagos; Hakimi Secondary School, Mokwa, Niger state; Marist Comprehensive College, Nteje, Anambra state.

“Others are Ikole City College, Ikole Ekiti, Ekiti state; Government Day Secondary School, Sunane, Sokoto state; and Government Day Secondary School, Jada, Adamawa state, among others,”he said.

Babafemi quoted the NDLEA chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa as commending the officers and men of MAKIA, Lagos, and Kano Commands of the agency for the arrests and seizures.

Marwa noted with satisfaction the balance in drug supply and demand reduction efforts of all the formations nationwide, even as he charged them not to relent.(NAN)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Kevin Okunzuwa

Defence/Security

Arms: Local firm to reduce dependence on foreign procurement

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

D7G Nigeria Ltd, an indigenous defence related firm, has vowed to boost Nigeria’s defence capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign procurement of arms, through collaboration with Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

Retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development, DICON-D7G, said this in an interview with newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Wednesday, inaugurated the DICON/D7G Board.

Musa had, in his remarks, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing its defence industrial base.

Masanawa said the joint venture was formed to develop Nigeria’s military industrial complex to enhance security in line with the DICON Act 2023, as well as President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security.

“The company’s overall operation is actually self-financed and is committed to paying 30 per cent of its profit to the government on all manufactured or assembled goods or stocks in Nigeria, and 20 per cent profit to the stocks of goods that are imported.

“D7G in collaboration with DICON, is set to establish the first military jetty in Lagos on a land covering about 160,000 square meters.

“That military jetty is where we will have space and warehouses for a lot of activities because the land is vast.

“We will be, in addition to stocks of arms and ammunition, be assembling drones, unarmed aerial vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, 4×4 vehicles, 6×6 armoured personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.

“The idea is also to use that opportunity to develop human capacity. Human capacity in the sense that we will employ skilled retired military specialists in the company.

“So the armed forces have trained them so much and most of them have retired and they are going with their knowledge. This is an opportunity to bring them back and tap from them,” he said.

Masanawa said the joint venture had led to production and assembling of arms in Kaduna factory that would be readily available to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, while developing their factory in Lagos.

He said the company would also go into ship building when its factory comes on stream.

“During the DICON at 60, we brought in eight foreign companies under our umbrella, and we are going to leverage on that, develop the capacity in defence production for Nigerian armed forces, security agencies, intelligence, and other paramilitary organisations.

“By that also, we will save the government funds, that is, forex, because we can sell our goods and services, both in naira and in hard currency,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

Defence/Security

Intensify air offensives against bandits, safeguard civilians – CAS charges troops

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has directed troops of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to intensify air offensives against bandits while ensuring maximum protection of civilians.

Group Capt. Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, said Abubakar gave the order when he visited the Air Component Headquarters of Operation Fansam Yamma in Katsina and Sokoto States.

He said that his directive aligned with NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation Action Plan and reinforced its commitment to precision air operations that prioritise civilian safety.

He commended the unwavering dedication of the troops in combating banditry and urged them to sustain the momentum.

Abubakar emphasised that air power had remained a decisive force in dismantling criminal strongholds and providing crucial support to ground troops in the ongoing counter-banditry campaign.

He reassured the personnel of continuous support in the areas of intelligence, logistics and welfare to ensure operational success.

According to him, timely intelligence, well-maintained equipment and high troop morale are fundamental to achieving lasting security in the region.

The CAS used the visit to conduct a first-hand assessment of operational aircraft and ongoing infrastructural projects in the two states.

He assured that NAF would be resolute in its mission to safeguard the nation and protect its citizens, leveraging air superiority and strategic coordination to combat threats to national security. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Stanley Nwanosike/Jane-Frances Oraka

Defence/Security

Ramadan/Lent:Army hosts interfaith dinner in Niger

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By Rita Iliya
The Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army on Friday hosted an interfaith dinner for Muslims and Christians to break their fast for the Ramadan and Lenten in Niger.

Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of TRADOC, in his address, said the aim was to foster unity and tolerance.

Aligbe said the significance of the occasion went beyond physical abstinence from food and drinks.

He reiterated the importance of sacrifice and self-reflection during periods of fasting, adding that fasting is a sacrifice that drew all believers closer to their maker.

He urged Nigerians to pray for the country’s leaders and the military personnel deployed in various theatres of operations.

“We owe it to them to make their families feel comfortable while they are away.”

He expressed gratitude to the government and people of Niger for their support and hospitality, promising that the Nigerian Army would reciprocate by ensuring greater security in the state and beyond.

Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Dantani Danjuma, Acting Director, Examination, TRADOC, said the period of fasting was a time for prayers, charities, self-improvement, and a reminder that diversity was a source of strength and commitment.

Danjuma encouraged guests to enjoy the meal and expressed gratitude to the Commander, TRADOC, for providing financial support and opportunities for people of both faiths to come together.

He extended prayers for peace, progress, and continuous unity, urging everyone to uphold the values of tolerance and respect for one another.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which brought together military personnel, government officials, and civilians, aimed to promote unity and interfaith harmony. (NAN)
Edited by Joe Idika

Defence/Security

Chief Judge frees 95 inmates in Katsina

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By Abbas Bamalli

The Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Danladi, has granted bail to 91 inmates and discharged four during a jail delivery exercise.

Speaking at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Katsina Old, the Chief Judge said the move aimed to reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities across the state.

He disclosed that the released inmates were recommended by the Sub-Committee on Decongestion of Correctional Centres for various valid reasons.

According to him, some inmates were released due to age, prolonged detention, or serious health conditions that warranted their freedom on compassionate grounds.

Danladi announced that, henceforth, details and photographs of released inmates would be documented for reference and tracking purposes.

He urged the freed individuals to obey the law, warning that repeat offenders may not receive similar opportunities in future.

The Controller of Corrections in the state, Mr Umar Baba, thanked the Chief Judge, saying the exercise greatly benefited correctional centres in Katsina.

He stated the jail delivery exercise helped manage inmate population, reduce tension within facilities, and improve the reformation process.

Baba appealed to judges and magistrates to apply non-custodial sentencing to ease congestion in correctional centres.

Such measures, he said, would support reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates into society as law-abiding citizens. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Defence/Security

Artillery corps to prioritise welfare of personnel, says Commander

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By Rita Iliya
Maj.-Gen. Zakari Abubakar, Commander of the Corps of Artillery, has reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising the welfare of officers, soldiers, and their families under his command.

He gave this assurance during a courtesy visit to Hajiya Mariam Abubakar, Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Kontagora Chapter on Thursday in Kontagora.

Abubakar, who underscored the importance of a stable home environment, acknowledged the crucial role played by military spouses in supporting their families while their partners were on national assignments.

He also announced that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, had approved the establishment of a Command Day Secondary School to enhance troops’ welfare and provide quality education for future leaders.

He also revealed plans to upgrade the medical reception station to a full-fledged cantonment hospital, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that meet international standards.

Abubakar further pledged to renovate the Vulcan Nursery and Primary School and establish a vocational training center to equip troops’ family members with essential skills for self-sufficiency.

In response, Abubakar appreciated the commander’s efforts and highlighted the artillery corps’ vital role in the Nigerian Army’s operational successes.

She also commended the initiative to establish a command day secondary school, saying that it would significantly enhance the welfare and educational opportunities for families in the cantonment and host communities.(NAN)(www.nanne

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Defence/Security

NIS to roll out e-visas to boost efficiency, curb corruption

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced plans to introduce electronic visas (e-Visas) soon, aiming to reduce inefficiency and curb corruption across the country.

NIS Comptroller General, Mrs Kemi Nandap, said this during the opening of the 3rd nationwide sensitisation campaign on ensuring efficient service delivery and zero tolerance for corruption on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event is “Increased Digitalisation and Consolidated Innovations for Efficient and Transparent Services.”

The anti-corruption campaign will also take place across all NIS commands and formations.

According to Nandap, the introduction of e-Visas will streamline the visa application process, eliminating human contact and reducing the risk of corruption.

She emphasised that the online application system was designed to be more efficient and convenient for applicants.

Nandap further highlighted the automation of NIS processes, which had reduced human interaction and, as a result, minimised opportunities for corruption.

She urged the public to hold the service accountable and to commend personnel where deserved.

“The NIS plays a vital role in national security, border management, and the facilitation of regular migration. Our actions significantly impact the image of Nigeria.

“Last year, the NIS made a commitment to combat corruption through digitalisation and innovation to improve service delivery.

“One of the flagship initiatives, the Passport Automation Programme, has already reduced passport processing times and eliminated opportunities for corruption that existed in the manual process,” she stated.

Nandap also highlighted the introduction of the Contactless Passport Application Process, which allowed Nigerians to submit applications online, eliminating physical contact with officers and further minimising corruption risks.

“Additionally, the introduction of e-gates at airports aims to enhance security and streamline passenger processing, reducing manual intervention and the risk of corruption.

“The use of body cameras by NIS officers was also emphasised as a key step in enhancing transparency and accountability.”

Nandap explained that body cameras would help curb brutality, gather evidence, and rebuild public trust in the service.

“The NIS is also collaborating with Interpol to combat corruption and transnational crimes, sharing intelligence and best practices with international law enforcement agencies.”

Nandap proudly mentioned that an NIS officer was among the five Interpol trainers recently certified for Nigeria, reinforcing the service’s commitment to fighting corruption.

“In collaboration with national anti-corruption agencies like SERVICOM, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the NIS is enhancing internal mechanisms to promote transparency and accountability.

“Officers found in violation of ethical standards will face disciplinary actions, underscoring the Service’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining public trust.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Defence/Security

FG is committed to reducing dependence on foreign arms procurement – CDS

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Federal Government is committed to reducing its dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing Nigeria’s defence industrial base.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, stated this during the inauguration of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and D7G Nigeria Limited (DICON/D7G) Board on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that Nigeria had remained committed to strengthening its defence capabilities to ensure that its gallant men and women in uniform had access to high-quality, locally manufactured military equipment, ammunition, and other operational assets.

According to him, the establishment of strategic partnership between DICON and D7G Nigeria Limited, represents a bold step towards actualising the vision.

The CDS said the inauguration of the board was sequel to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which established a joint venture company of DICON and D7G Board of Nigeria Limited.

He said the joint venture was for the production of military hardware and equipment for the armed forces, as well as for intelligence, security, and paramilitary organisations.

“This inauguration marks yet another milestone in our collective pursuit of national security, self-reliance, and industrial development.

“The armed forces, alongside our intelligence and security agencies, operate in a dynamic and evolving threat environment.

“This requires not just superior strategy and professionalism but also robust indigenous capacity to develop and sustain critical defence assets.

“The partnership we celebrate today is a testament to our resolve to build a resilient defence manufacturing sector that will meet the immediate and future needs of our military and security institutions,” he said.

Musa said the members of the board were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that this collaboration translates into efficient production, cutting-edge research, and seamless supply of defence equipment that meets global standards.

He urged them to deploy their leadership, expertise, and commitment to driving the success of the initiative.

He commended DICON for its unwavering dedication to developing Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector.

The CDS added that the partnership with D7G would offer a unique opportunity to expand production capacity, leverage advanced technology, and foster knowledge transfer that will strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global defence industry.

“As we inaugurate this Board today, let me reaffirm the commitment of the Defence Headquarters to providing the necessary support for the success of this initiative.

“We expect that this partnership will be guided by transparency, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence.

“Together, we must ensure that this effort delivers the desired impact for enhanced security, economic growth, and national development,” he added.

The Director-General of DICON, Maj.-Gen. Aniedi Edet, said the context of the collaboration with D7G was in terms of supply of defence materials and production of local defence items on the basis of 30 per cent to DICON and 70 per cent to D7G.

Edet said that the company was currently engaged in DICON with the first set of defence stock expected to arrive in DICON in coming weeks.

According to him, expected stock include the 103 AK-47 weapons and other assorted weapons that they intend to start assembling as soon as the items arrive.

He said that DICOM and D7G collaboration holds great prospects for the nation’s military industrial complex, adding that D7G was one of DICON’s most viable partners.

The Chief Executive Officer of D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, said the partnership would focus on being in new generation of technology for defence capabilities in Nigeria.

He said that they would soon begin production of ammunitions, arms assembling and bomb fit for Nigeria and all of African market.

The Head of DICON/D7G Board of Directors, retired Rear Adm. Harry Ngonadi, said the partnership was a commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence within Nigeria’s defence sector.

Ngonadi said challenges facing the country in an increasingly complex global environment required them to be proactive, strategic, and united.

He stated that the board would serve as a vital platform for industry leaders, government representatives, and experts to come together, share insights, and develop solutions that will enhance national defence capability.

According to him, the board is tasked with ensuring that the armed forces are equipped with the most advanced technologies, best practices in defence management, and highest standards of safety and security.

“Our work here will not only strengthen our military but also contribute to economic resilience of our nation by promoting local industries, creating jobs, and fostering innovation,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Defence/Security

Amnesty Programme cautions ex-agitators against being used as cannon fodders

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By Nathan Nwakamma

Dr Denis Otuaro, the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has urged beneficiaries of the amnesty programme to refrain from being used to foment trouble in Rivers.

Otuaro urged all ex-agitators and beneficiaries of PAP to conduct themselves responsibly in the wake of the constitutional development in Rivers.

He called on the beneficiaries to resist any attempt and overtures by groups or individuals, no matter how highly placed, to draw them into the current situation in Rivers State.

“I am appealing against engaging in violent activities or making yourselves available for acts capable of throwing the Niger Delta into chaos.

“I am reminding you of your obligations as critical stakeholders and ambassadors of peace to maintain and safeguard the region’s peace and stability for the safety of the Niger Delta people and their means of livelihoods.”

Otuaro said that PAP office had alerted them to beware of some merchants of violence who aimed at making political gains out of the tension in Rivers.

He urged them to shun such temptations as the merchants would only use them as cannon fodders to disrupt the peace for their selfish desires.

Otuaro noted that the Niger Delta had suffered enough on many fronts over the years, and all ex-agitators should realize the fact and ensure that the region is not plunged into further destabilisation.

“Importantly, I am asking ex-agitators, beneficiaries of the PAP, and the people of the Niger Delta not to engage in the destruction of oil and gas and other government assets in the region,” Otuaro said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

Defence/Security

COAS pledges commitment to developing combat-ready force

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to developing a highly motivated and combat-ready force through structured career planning and digital transformation.

Oluyede gave the assurance at the opening of the 6th Career Planning and Management Seminar for Officers, organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary on Tuesday in Abuja.

The seminar has as its theme: “Effective Career Planning for Nigerian Army Officers: Imperative for a Well-Motivated and Combat-Ready Force within a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment”.

Represented by the Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdulsalam, the COAS, emphasised that career development was a critical pillar in maintaining a professional and effective military.

He highlighted the army’s ongoing efforts to modernise career management by ensuring that officers were deployed based on their skills and competencies.

He commended the Department of the Military Secretary for digitising officers’ records and urged them to accelerate the rollout of an electronic performance evaluation report set for 2025.

“As we navigate evolving security challenges, it is imperative that our officers are well-prepared, motivated, and assigned roles that align with their expertise.

“This will not only enhance operational effectiveness but also boost morale within the force,” he said.

Oluyede reiterated his vision for a digitally advanced and combat-effective Army and encouraged officers to embrace career planning as a tool for professional growth and operational success.

He added that the initiative reflected the Nigerian army’s broader reforms aimed at strengthening personnel development and improving military readiness.

“This therefore brings to the fore the need for efficient career planning and management of personnel.

“As the world continues to evolve and with several organisations embracing novel and new strategies in human resource management, we must continually seek to improve our approach to career planning and management of our military human resources.

“This will ensure that we keep producing the right crop of personnel adequately prepared and equipped to deal with our present and future threats.

“We must all continue to try to ensure that our officers and men remain professional in the discharge of their duties,” he added.

The Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Everest Okoro, said the seminar was designed to focus on achieving motivated and combat-ready Nigerian army officers through recruitment, appointments, and deployments within a joint and multi-agency environment.

Okoro said that it was also designed to guarantee the desired output and future packages that would encourage participants to contemporarily approach military resource management with a view to improve career planning at all levels.

In his lecture, the former Military Secretary, retired Maj.-Gen. Shehu Abdulkadir, said that the Nigerian army had continued to face a critical need for a modernised human resource management system.

Abdulkadir delivered a paper titled, “Military Human Resource Management in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment: The Nigerian Army in Perspective”.

He said that a comprehensive talent management system, similar to that employed by the US Army, would help identify and promote personnel based on their skills, experience, and leadership potential, ultimately improving the army’s overall effectiveness.

He added that ongoing reforms could focus on improving the balance of personnel within the army and ensuring that human resource management decisions were data-driven, transparent, and focused on long-term personnel development. (NAN) 

Edited by Deborah Coker

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