By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Component of Operation UDO KA II, has destroyed several hideouts of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its Eastern Security Network in Anambra and Imo States.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Gabkwet said the strikes were carried out on Tuesday at Mother Valley Orsumughu in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra and Aku Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo.

He said it was part of on efforts aimed at dislocating their nefarious activities while denying them the liberty to carry out their destructive acts and killing sprees on innocent and law-abiding Nigerians.

According to him, the strikes at both locations achieved their intended outcome and deemed effective.

“Acting on credible intelligence that IPOB/ESN terrorists had perfected plans to disrupt civic activities lined up in the coming days in Anambra and other southeastern states.

“The air strikes were authorised in conjunction with ground troops and other security agencies on the location believed to also house some of their weapons and ammunitions.

“The strikes hit the target and were deemed successful following the ball of fire, fleeing terrorists at the location as well as feedback received,” he said.

Gabkwet said that other air strikes were also conducted, same day, in close coordination with surface forces at IPOB/ESN hideout camps in Aku Ihube in Imo after detailed analysis of intelligence on the terrorists converging for a likely rendezvous at their hideout.

He said the air strikes were also authorised to take out the hideout where the targets were acquired and attacked in succession, with a high degree of success.

According to him, efforts by the NAF and other security agencies at ensuring all Nigerians, irrespective of where they reside, are safe and free to conduct their activities without fear or being threatened will continue.

“While the determination of the security agencies is unwavering, the support of all Nigerians to the security agencies remains critical to defeating these criminal elements who’s only intent is to sow fear and division among the citizenry,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

By Usman Aliyu

The new General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi has charged the troops under its formations to always exhibit discipline while on duty.

Alabi gave the task on Tuesday at the 4 Brigade Command Headquarters in Benin during the tour of formations under the division.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new GOC was deployed to the division on Aug. 23, as he took over from Maj.-Gen. Valentine Okoro.

While addressing the troops, the senior military officer said discipline was the only virtues that distinguished them from other members of the society.

“Let’s continue to be disciplined and law abiding. We must work in line with the laid down instructions and guidelines.

“Without discipline, you don’t have any business in soldier; discipline is what distinguishes us from other members of the society.

“We must continue to remain dedicated to our duties and be law abiding,” he charged.

The GOC, however, assured that the military authorities took their welfare very seriously and would ensure they do whatever would enhance their welfare and training, among others.

He said that the visit would afford him an opportunity to familiarise himself with the operational activities in the brigade and seek for the cooperation of the troops in the reform agenda of the Chief of Army Staff.

“I have been well briefed and I want to start by commending all of you for the good job you are doing; the support you are giving to other agencies to ensure peace, security and stability in the brigade.

“As it is our responsibility, soldiers, that is our job; it is to ensure territorial integrity.

“I want to further remind you of what it is to be a soldier. You have dedicated the period of your service to contribute your impact to national security and you must be ready to continue to do that.

“In line with the mind’s philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, which we are all very much aware of, that he wants to transform the Nigerian Army into a well trained and very motivated force.

“The Chief of Army Staff is very much committed and interested in ensuring effective administration of personnel of the Army.

“I assure you that we, the commanders, would always ensure whatever that will improve the administration in the Nigerian Army and it will be well protected,” Alabi said.

The GOC was conducted round the formations under the brigade by the 4 Brigade Commander, Brig-Gen Danladi Ndahi. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola

By Monday Ijeh

Acting Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday in Abuja presented cheques totalling N1.3 billion to 420 families of police officers who died in active service.

Egbetokun said the cheques were for the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 policy years under the Group Life Assurance policy of the police.

He said the presentation also encompassed the I-G’s Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.

According to him, the Group Life Assurance scheme is a welfare package established as a result of the amendment of the 2004 Pension Reform Act (2014).

Egbetokun said the welfare package was funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“The I-G Family Welfare Insurance Scheme, being funded by the Nigeria Police Force, was established in 2017.

“The idea is to relieve the hardship faced by deceased’s immediate family before their death benefits are ready for payment,’’ he said.

He added that the Nigeria Police Force was firmly grounded in the belief that every human life is inherently valuable.

“Our commitment to prompt fulfilment of our obligations, including the provision of insurance and other benefits to our officers and their families who have made significant sacrifices is an expression of appreciation.

“This tangible support serves to boost the morale of officers and men and underscores our steadfast dedication to their welfare and that of their families.

“It is a testament to our recognition of their sacrifices and an assurance that their service is held in the highest regard,’’ the I-G added.

He pledged the resolve of the Nigeria Police leadership to further enhance welfare packages for all members of the Police family, irrespective of their status.

The I-G said the enhanced welfare package would be extended to serving, retired, or those who had made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

He said the objective was to establish welfare support that would cement the bonds within the police community.

Egbetokun said the idea was to create an environment where every officer felt valued, protected and motivated to deliver his or her utmost in the service of the nation,

“In extending my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased officers, I am aware that nothing can fill the void left behind by your loved ones.

“I implore you, however, to make good use of these funds to address your needs and other challenges, particularly in the context of your financial stability,’’ Egbetokun stressed. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Alli Hakeem

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Nigerian security services have restated their commitment to safeguarding lives, property and businesses across the country in a bid to restore local and international confidence in the Nigerian economy.

They gave the assurance at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) 2023 Security Meets Business Dialogue Series on Tuesday in Lagos.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, stressed the need to foster the nexus between security, the business community and national development.

Musa was represented by Maj. Gen. Ev Onumajuru, Chief of Defence Training and Operations, Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

The CDS noted that constant dialogue between the business community and security agencies was critical to better understand and value the contribution of both parties to national stability.

He stated that while security challenges such as terrorism, banditry, ritual killings among others affected the country, Nigerians must continue to live in peace, with citizens displaying the highest levels of patriotism.

“There are many challenges but it is not peculiar to Nigeria alone but a global issue, and so we must employ peaceful, diplomatic and political measures to address them.

“We advise that orientation and reorientation should be ongoing on nationalism, to drive the heart of the people to patriotism.

“On our parts, we would continue to provide counternarratives and strategic interventions to address the phycological effect of insecurity on Nigerians,” he said.

Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said events such as this were of paramount importance, particularly to explain to the business community the role of Nigerian Army in providing security of lives and businesses.

Lagbaja, represented by Maj-Gen. A A Adeyinka, Commander Nigerian Corps of Supply and Transport, Lagos, said this was given the army’s multifaceted role crucial to attracting capital and the expertise required for investments to thrive.

He stated that the Nigerian Army would continue to collaborate with security agencies by pooling resources, intelligence and expertise to foster conducive environment for investment to thrive.

“Beyond the primary area of security, the Army aims to continue to maintain its resolve to fostering an enabling environment by protecting critical infrastructure such as power plants, transportation system among others and would continue to keep them from attacks.

“Our efforts across the value chain involving the investors, manufacturers and the consumers would hopefully continue to yield the desired results to stabilise the economy.

“We would continue to train and build capacity of personnel to ensure security and stability is achieved to propel Nigeria into becoming a destination of choice,” he said.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, said within the last one year, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had increased tempo of air operations in support of land and maritime forces in all ongoing counter-terrorism/anti-banditry operations.

Abubakar, represented by Air Commodore OA Abu, Commander 651, Base Services Nigerian Air Force, Ikeja, said the force would continue to foster freedom of action in the air.

“Freedom of action in the air means that our colleagues of the other sister security services can accomplish their tasks of securing the environment without threat of adversary attack from above.

“Consequently, the NAF will continue to improve security while leveraging commercial programmes with local and foreign investors in order to attract more development to Nigeria,” he said.

Commissioner of Police, Lagos, Mr Idowu Owohunwa, said the role of the Nigeria Police Force in ensuring a conducive atmosphere for socioeconomic activities to thrive was not only statutory but an onerous and daunting challenge.

Owohunwa, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations, Lagos State Police Command,Mr Tijani Fatai, said global opinion held that Lagos had not only become a mega-city but was fast transforming into a smart city.

He noted that the distinctiveness of Lagos placed squarely enormous challenges at the doorsteps of the Police as an institution, being the lead agency in internal security, enforcement of law, protection of lives and property.

“Lagos State Police Command is doing all its can to secure lives and property and the state remains a safe haven for investors both local and foreign, even though there are some challenges.

“As the commercial hub of the country, the state command is ready to do everything to deliver the onerous task of safety within the state.

“With the support of all stakeholders, the Command will continue to sustain the momentum and keep the flag flying,” he said.

Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, represented by Commodore NS Lakan, noted that the nature of Nigeria’s maritime domain, the longest in Africa, was characterised by its extensive coastline.

Ogalla said Nigeria had invested in developing maritime infrastructure to support trade and security with the Nigerian maritime domain of essence to the security of the country.

“The maritime domain plays a crucial role in revenue generation and the economic development of the country, especially with the blue economy.

“While criminal activities become systematised and sophisticated, issues of piracy are fast becoming a thing of the past and so the Nigerian navy would continue in its role in making Nigeria a safe haven for lives and businesses,” he said.

Prince Julius Adelusi- Adeluyi, former Minister of Health, said every security agency at the forefront of bringing peace must be appreciated, and the work they are doing understood.

He, however, emphasised the need to address the multidimensional poverty beguiling the nation, saying in such a situation, peace maybe difficult to achieve.

“The LCCI must continue to recommend ways that things can become better and encourage people to become great people and not just big people of worth.

“Every Nigerian must begin to have a sense and moral of values.

“There’s also need for some level of education, information and advocacy about the activities and interventions of the security agencies to spur trust in the heart of Nigerians in the country’s security architecture,” he said.

President, LCCI, Dr Michael Olawale-Cole, noted that in the last decade, Nigeria had experienced unprecedented levels of insecurity with severe implications for investment flows and businesses.

Olawale-Cole, lauding President Bola Tinubu’s tempo at addressing insecurity and economic challenges, called for sustained funding for defence operations to equip the security architecture with the most advanced weaponry and intelligence infrastructure.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

============

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

By Salisu Sani-Idris/Ibironke Ariyo

President Bola Tinubu has implored the Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies in Africa to renew the fight against substance abuse.

Tinubu made the call at the inauguration of the 31st meeting of the Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF), on Tuesday in Abuja.

Represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, the president also enjoined the continent’s anti drugs agencies to fight against illicit drug trafficking in their respective countries.

He warned vehemently that the African continent would remain in chains till it breaks free from the shackles of the criminal enterprises of drug barons and syndicates of illicit drugs.

“If we don’t dismantle the criminal enterprises that threaten our future and build a brighter tomorrow for all Africans, we will remain in chains in a diseased and amoral world, as will our children and their children.”

Speaking on his keynote address, titled, “Rising Above the Drug Threat”, Tinubu said that: “Africa was at the mercy of a threat that knows neither race nor geography, neither gender nor social class.”

He, therefore, enjoined the African heads of drug law enforcement agencies to consider the conference in Abuja as a ray of hope and a catalyst for positive change across the continent.

President Tinubu thanked them for their sacrifices in ensuring a world that is free of illicit drugs.

“This threat has crossed borders and destroyed societies and dreams. Without the moral commitment of the men and women in this room, this threat would have left cities, countries, and even civilizations erased.

“So, I must commend you for your sacrifices in the bids to keep our world drug-free, sane and safe.

“This conference emphasises your investment across borders to protect us from the devastations of drugs, a threat that only submits to the enforcement of the law.

He thanked HONLAF and its partners, particularly, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, for creating the avenue for offering intelligence and drug law enforcement officials a grand opportunity to compare notes.

He also appreciated HONLAF for creating platform for collaboration and networking that would be several steps ahead of the criminal network of drug transnational organizations.

Tinubu said that in the last couple of decades, criminal organisations had made frantic efforts to breach the security measures in African countries, all in a bid to pollute the minds of their citizens, adding however that the anti-narcotics agencies have proven to be a thorn in their flesh.

“But while it’s a compliment that drug-law enforcement organizations are a threat to their criminal empires, their desperation must never be taken for granted.

“Without you as gatekeepers of healthy nations, humanity as we know it would have long been perverted. So, on behalf of the world, I say thanks to you all, who have kept us from being polluted and destroyed.”

He said that the commitment to the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse was not just a matter of policy but a moral imperative.

“We recognise that a population at war with drugs is not a dividend but a liability. We believe that the future of our youth, the strength of our institutions, and the well-being of our communities depend on our ability to eradicate this threat.”

Tinubu stressed the need for the anti-narcotics agencies to consolidate established contacts, strengthen operational existing partnerships and cooperation among them at the sub-regional and regional levels.

This, according to him, will make trafficking of illicit drugs and movement of drug syndicates difficult in the African continent.

Tinubu said the conference was a profound recognition of the campaign and fight against illicit drugs in the country by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“We are hosting the 31st HONLAF meeting here to reassure you of our promise to participate in building a world not threatened by the infiltration of illicit drugs.”

Earlier, the Chairman of NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, restated the stakeholders’ commitment towards addressing the world’s drug problem.

He assured that Nigeria would continue to uphold the objectives of multilateral organisations dedicated to combating drug trafficking and related crimes.

Marwa, who emphasised the need for global partnerships in addressing drug trafficking and other vices, noted that world’s drug problem cannot be effectively tackled by individual entities.

In attendance were the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC), Mr Ghada Fathi Waly; the UNODC Country Representative, Mr Oliver Stolpe and the Commandant of the National Institute for Security Studies, Mr Ayodele Adeleke

Others are the representative of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vincent Obi

By Olaide Ayinde

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Bauchi State Command, says no fewer than 204 persons have been killed in various Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs), in the state from January till date.

Mr Joel Dagwa, the Zonal Commanding Officer in charge of Bauchi, Yobe and Gombe, disclosed this on Tuesday in Bauchi, at 2023 ember-months sensitisation programme organised by the command.

Dagwa said that within the period under review, 679 people also sustained various degrees of injury in the 214 crashes that occured.

Breaking down the figures, he said that between January and March, the command recorded 108 RTCs with 126 people killed and 259 injured.

“In the second quarter, we recorded 79 total RTCs, with 66 killed and 309 injured. However, in the third quarter, 27 RTCs were recorded with 12 deaths and 111 injured,” he said.

According to him, ember-months which span between September and December, usually witness a surge in road traffic crashes and fatalities.

“This alarming trend has prompted us to come together as a community and responsible citizens to address this critical issue and make our roads safer for the good people of Bauchi and Nigeria at large.

“It is unfortunate that we could see the trend at which precious lives and properties were lost and this is telling us that road safety is not just a governmental responsibility.

“It is a shared responsibility that rests on the shoulders of every one of us from the government agencies, the royal fathers, society, sister agencies, drivers and passengers,” he said.

Dagwa reiterated that irresponsible action on the roads could have far-reaching negative consequences adding that it is the duty of all to ensure that behaviours on the roads are exemplary, (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Deborah Coker

The Ministry of Defence has described as misleading, allegation that the Federal Government was negotiating with the Zamfara terrorists to secure the release of the abducted students of Federal University, Gusau.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, by Mr Hope Attari, Acting Director of Press and Public Relations, MoD.

Attari said that the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, was reacting to a statement credited to a governor that the Federal Government was negotiating with the terrorists to secure the release of the students.

Badaru, while condemning the act and reassuring Zamfara residents, said that the Federal Government was doing everything possible to secure their release.

He explained that President Bola Tinubu had given marching order to the military and other security agencies to ensure the release of those abducted.

According to him, the Federal Government is not negotiating with the Zamfara terrorists to secure the release of the abducted. The government is working assiduously round the clock to ensure that the girls and others return home.

“The allegation is false and misleading as the ministry has not mandated any body or group to negotiate on behalf of the Federal Government.”

He reassured Zamfara residents and Nigerians at large of the progress being made for the quick return of the female students and others of Federal University Gusau.

He expressed confidence that the joint security task forces was working discreetly round the clock to get the students rescued.

He extended his heartfelt sympathy to the parents, the academic community, and the entire residents of the state for the tragic abduction.

He, however, noted that the order of the president had started yielding result as 13 of the abducted students and 3 others regained their freedom on Monday.

“This feat was achieved through the professional efforts of the military.

“I condole with the families of the girls and others that were abducted; I share in your pain and strongly condemn this reprehensible act carried out by suspected bandits,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

By Yahaya Isah

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Federal Capital Territory (FCT), says it is set to upwardly review traffic offence fines from the least N2,000 to N5,000 and even up to N300,000.

Mr Kalu Emetu, DRTS Director of Public Relations made this known on Monday during an enlightenment exercise embarked upon by the service in some selected motor parks in the FCT.

Emetu said the service took the decision of imposing stiffer penalties to serve as deterrent and reduce traffic offences in the territory.

“We are hoping that this development will go a long way in forcing motorists to deem it necessary to obey traffic rules and regulations.

“However, the fines depend on the nature and gravity of the offence.

“For example, if a motorist blocks a particular road, thereby, causing serious traffic gridlock, the vehicle will be impounded immediately while the culprit will be fined N300,000.

“After one week, if the culprit does not show up, the service will have no choice than to approach the court to obtain certificate of forfeiture.

“If the forfeiture order is granted, the property automatically becomes government property and it is now left for the government to decide what to do with it,’’ he explained.

Emetu said the development was geared towards forcing motorists to do the right thing by making sure they obey traffic rules and regulations at all times.

“We urge motorists in FCT to obey traffic rules and regulations for their own safety and the safety of others. Otherwise, they will be made to face stiffer penalties.

“We also want them to know that it is no longer business as usual. There is a new government in place. So, it is expected of them to have attitudinal change towards roads usage.(NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Army War College, Nigeria (AWCN), on Monday in Abuja held a military exercise code-named “Exercise STAR RIDE” for Course 7/2023 participants.

The Commandant of the college, Maj. Gen. Ishaya Maina, said the exercise was to equip the participants with skills and knowledge necessary to effectively respond to contemporary security challenges.

He said the exercise integrates various aspects of national security, interagency coordination, logistics planning, counter-terrorism, and stabilisation operations.

“This was the culmination of the extensive training packages offered by the college, ” he said.

Maina said the participants would have the opportunity to practice the planning, preparation and execution of critical aspects as commanders and staff under diverse operational scenarios at highest level.

He said the exercise was critical in preparing the operational level leaders to tackle the complex and evolving security landscape in the country.

”Exercise STAR RIDE is a pivotal element of our commitment to nurturing strategic leaders capable of addressing the multifaceted security challenges our nation faces today.

“This exercise allows our participants to apply the knowledge they’ve gained throughout their course and empowers them to make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.

“By participating in this exercise, our course participants will not only enhance their individual skills but also contribute to the overall readiness of our armed forces.

“It is our hope that they will apply the lessons learned here to effectively address the security challenges our nation faces,” he said.

The commandant said the exercise reflected the college’s dedication to developing leaders who can work collaboratively across different agencies and domains to safeguard national security.

He said it was the final exercise for the participants of course 7, designed to test the participants on all they had learnt during the period of the course.

According to him, the training was the best welfare any military could give to a soldier.

He said that AWCN training was purpose oriented and intended to give the participants the skills required to practice on leaving the college, either as top officers or commanders.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the exercise, which commenced on Sept. 20, was expected to end Tuesday, Sept. 26. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Ali Baba-Inuwa