News Agency of Nigeria
I see improved security in next 2 years of Tinubu – Buratai
Defence/Security

I see improved security in next 2 years of Tinubu – Buratai

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, has expressed optimism that the security situation in the country would improve in the next two years of President Bola Tinubu.

Buratai stated this in an interview with newsmen at the sidelines of the 2025 VON Forum in Abuja.

According to him, there is no country that does not have its peculiar challenges, including the western countries.

“However, concerning the security in Nigeria, I foresee much improvement in the next two years of President Bola Tinubu; lessons have been learnt. Insecurity is not something you wished away overnight.

“It will not disappear,  just like other forms of crimes like rape, armed robbery, pick pockets and others. These are societal ills that will continue to exist as long as human beings exist.

“So, insecurity is something you continue to handle as they arise. I believe that members of the armed forces and other security agencies including the police have taken lessons from the recent challenges.

“And I believe they will rise up to the occasion and deal with it, but also, there should be collaboration of all stakeholders; from federal agencies to the state and local governments to ensure improved security.

“If we depend too much on the Federal Government without us doing our part, that’s where this 2025 VON Forum comes handy; citizen engagement,” Buratai said.

He further explained that in achieving national security, institutional capacity building and manpower development remains very important.

He noted that there are national security policies and national defence policies which need implementation to the latter.

“When executing or implementing it, there is coordination. You need to work with others to achieve more,” Buratai said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel
Defence/Security

COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has declared his support for the early voting bill introduced by the Senate for military and security personnel deployed during elections.

Oluyede expressed the support of the army for the bill at a meeting with the Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC-Katsina state) in Abuja on Thursday.

He said that the job of the army on Election Day in collaboration with sister security agencies, was to create an enabling environment for Nigerians to exercise their franchise freely.

According to him, the army has been doing very well in support of the lead agency which is the Police and they have not had time to exercise their own franchise.

“The bill is actually long overdue, it is a laudable effort by the senator and we appreciate you; you have all our support for all the bills.

“As an army, we will support you as much as possible and for the programmes you have highly noted, be sure we will be well represented,” he said.

The chief, however, urged the crafters of the legislation to put measures in place to avoid impersonation and to enhance communication among security agencies and other essential workers.

He commended the senator for all the support for the army and the legislative support

Earlier, Yar’Adua said that the aim of the visit was to solicit the support of the army for three bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.

He said that the bills generally seek to strengthen the army forces and deepen its democratic participation in the country.

“The bills are, the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, the Arm Forces Trust Fund Amendment Bill and the Arm Forces Act Repeal and Reenactment Bill.

“I am here basically to seek your support and the partnership in the passage of the bills,” he said.

The senator said that the Electoral Act Amendment Bill was necessary to address the number of eligible Nigerians that are disenfranchised because of essential duties.

According to him, we have close to two million Nigerians who work on election day from the military, INEC staff, Ad hoc staff, NYSC corps members, security agents, journalists and election observers.

Yar’Adua recalled that during the 2023 general elections, the Nigerian Army deployed 95 per cent of its personnel for election related security issues.

He said that together with the Department of State Security (DSS) the military deployed 93,495 personnel.

The lawmaker said that the police deployed 310,973 personnel, the NYSC deployed 200,000 corps members while the National Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) deployed 81,000 personnel.

He said the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) deployed 21,000 personnel, the Nigerian Correctional Centre (NCC) deployed 11,336 officers, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) deployed 350 operatives while National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) deployed 9,447 personnel.

Yar’Adua said that when the numbers are put together and added to the number of election observers, it would be enough to determine the outcome of an election.

He said that the wide disenfranchisement raised concerns given the declining voter turnout saying that in 2015, voter turnout was 4.7 per cent, in 2019 it dropped 34.7 per cent and in 2023, 27. 3 per cent.

“To allow early voting for military personnel , it is not only a matter of fairness, it is a necessary step to restore confidence, engage young Nigerians and uphold the principle that says those who defend our democracy should not be excluded from it.

“I wish to encourage the Nigerian Army to collaborate with INEC in identifying eligible personnel to vote,” he said.

On his part, the Coordinator, Centre for Legislative Engagement, YIAGA-Africa, Dr Sam Ogwuche said that the bill was apt and timely.

He said that election is the hallmark of democracy and all Nigerians should be able to vote as it is a civic responsibility.

He said that YIAGA-Africa and many other stakeholders at the forefront of canvassing for increased citizen participation were in support of the bill. (NAN) 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Egbetokun inaugurates 31combat gunboats in Lagos
Defence/Security

Egbetokun inaugurates 31combat gunboats in Lagos

By Deborah Akpede

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated 31 combat gunboats to strengthen waterway security in Nigeria.

Egbetokun inaugurated the operational 31 state-of-the-art combat gunboats on Thursday at the Maritime Police Command, Lagos.

The police boss described the initiative as a symbol of renewed commitment to maritime safety, anti-crime patrols, and rescue missions across the nation’s aquatic territories.

“The addition of these purpose-built gunboats to the operational logistics of the Marine Police demonstrates our commitment to maritime security and our determination to stay ahead of emerging threats.

“The deployment of these assets reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to sustainable law enforcement and modernised policing standards.

“These gunboats are not just vessels, they represent our unwavering resolve to protect Nigeria’s waterways, safeguard lives and property, and dismantle criminal networks.

“The integration of solar-powered systems aligns with global best practices in green policing and highlights our leadership in environmentally responsible law enforcement,” he said.

I-G Egbetokun in the boat

IG Egbetokun further reiterated the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting the vital role of synergy between the Police, Armed Forces, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), and other stakeholders in ensuring maritime security.

“Securing Nigeria is a collaborative effort. The Police will continue to deepen our collaboration with our sister security agencies, particularly the armed forces, the maritime administration and safety agency and the Nigeria Ports Authority, among others.

“We recognise that intelligence-led policing and community engagement remain cornerstones of effective crime prevention.

“We shall continue to partner closely with coastal communities, leverage local intelligence and build mutual trust in order to deny criminals the operating space,” the police chief said.

The gunboats

He commended President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic investment in the modernisation of the Nigeria Police Force.

“Under President Tinubu’s visionary leadership, the Nigeria Police is undergoing a transformation marked by reform, modernisation, and professional excellence.

“The inauguration of the boats is a testament to the administration’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of the force to fulfil its constitutional mandate,” he said.

Egbetokun reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to upholding law and order across the nation.

“We will continue to strive with courage and integrity to protect you, to defend the territorial integrity of our nation and to ensure that Nigeria remains safe for all,” he assured. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Kevin Okunzuwa

FG launches initiative to tackle insecurity in north-central region
Defence/Security

FG launches initiative to tackle insecurity in north-central region

By Polycarp Auta

The Federal Government has launched the Presidential Community Engagement Peace Initiative (PCEPI) to tackle insecurity in the North-Central region of the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative is the brainchild of Mrs Abiodun Essiet, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement in charge of North-Central.

Speaking at the event on Thursday in Jos, Essiet said that the initiative aimed at promoting peace and security in states within the region.

“This initiative is an innovative peace network aimed at driving the peace agenda and promoting social cohesion across the region.

“In recent times, these have witnessed troubling violence such as banditry, farmer-herder clashes, insurgency, kidnapping, among others.

“The challenges before the region are more serious and far reaching; the security situation has led to the tragic loss of lives and property.

“This incident demands a proactive and intriguing response, one that places communities at the corner of peace.

“This is why we are gathered here today to launch a new pathway through the Presidential Community Engagement on Peace Initiative,” she said.

In his remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Gyang Buba, called on Nigerians to pass down historical antecedents to the upcoming generation.

He said that such a move would give a better perspective towards addressing the lingering conflicts in the region.

Inaugurating the initiative, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau said that the initiative would go a long way to promote peaceful coexistence in the region.

Mutfwang added that the initiative would also empower communities to take the lead in the peace building process of the Tinubu-led administration.

“This initiative is driven by the belief that peace is not only a goal, but a shared responsibility.

“We gather here at a critical moment in our national journey across our communities.

“This initiative aims to empower communities to take the lead in conflict resolution and peace building, recognising that sustainable peace must be local.

“It will also build bridges of trust between citizens through shared commitment and dialogue,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Group accuses Amnesty Intl. of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation
Defence/Security

Group accuses Amnesty Intl. of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigeria Safety and Peace Solidarity Movement (NSPSM), a civil society organisation, has accused Amnesty International (AI) of exaggerating Nigeria’s security situation in its recent report.

Mr Andrew Kato, General Secretary of NSPSM, stated this while briefing newsmen on the report on Wednesday in Abuja.

Kato said that the right information must be disseminated by any organisation or individual for peace and stability to be achieved in the country.

He faulted AIl over its claims that the Nigerian authorities had failed to protect lives and property from daily attacks by armed groups and bandits.

“NSPSM is alarmed at this report which does not reflect what is on ground at the moment.

“We are not here to speak for the military, but as Nigerians with a stake in what is happening, we make bold to say the Amnesty International report is not a true representation of efforts by the Nigerian government, especially the Armed Forces.

“One thing we find intriguing about Amnesty International in the Nigeria situation is that the organisation is blowing hot and cold.

“They will tell you that at least 10,217 people have been killed in attacks by gunmen in Benue, Edo, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Sokoto and Zamfara states.

“They said Benue state accounts for the highest death toll of 6,896, followed by Plateau state, where 2,630 people were killed.

“Later they will say arrested terrorists and gunmen are being denied their human rights.

“Amnesty International will say they are speaking for affected Nigerians and later come to speak for perpetrators of these heinous crimes against humanity,’’ he said.

Kato urged all discerning Nigerians to ask who Amnesty International is really working for and what they really want from Nigeria.

He said the group had observed overtime that Amnesty International had never at any time strongly condemned the activities of those perpetrating those crimes against innocent Nigerians.

“What is the essence of the report? Is it to raise an alarm? Cause Nigerians to begin to attack each other? Dampen troops’ morale? Or make the government and the military look incapable?

“We are confused because the AI report did not exhaustively look at what President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the Armed forces are doing to tackle the security challenges.

“We are not saying there are no issues on ground, what we are saying is that what is being done outweighs the alarm being raised by Amnesty International.

“It is unfortunate Amnesty International went to the extent of getting a one-sided interview from a resident of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara state to portray the Nigerian authorities as failures,’’ he added.

Kato said the organisation should have gone to areas where the military had been decimating the terrorists to get a balanced report if they are not hiding or desperate to achieve something in Nigeria.

He said the action of the organisation has reinforced the Nigerian authorities’ repeated accusation that some outside forces are having ulterior motives in what is happening in Nigeria.

“Globally, security challenges are intensifying as competition for political and economic benefits intensifies. However, AI is deliberately blowing the situation in our country out of proportion.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria under the present leadership from our investigation are not folding their hands and allowing citizens to be killed.

“Much is being done to tackle the challenges. Some of the efforts of the military are not being disclosed for some reasons.

“We are using this medium to strongly condemn and reject in totality the one sided report.

“We urge Nigerians to support our troops, they are working for us. Let us collectively reject any group working to cause disharmony and deepen the security challenges in our country,’’ he stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Yakubu Uba

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda
Defence/Security

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s policies and counter the propaganda of terrorists and bandits.

Buratai made the call during his remarks at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum on Tuesday in Abuja.

The forum with the theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security” was organised by VON with support from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

According to him citizens engagement and national security is very fundamental, stressing that such has not been formalised over the years.

He gave a narration on how Sweden coordinated its activities which enhanced citizens’ engagement, that led to a national force and that also gave birth to the Navy Seal we have in the world today.

“Citizens engagement is a force multiplier, be it intelligence or cyber activities that affect our nation’s strategic assets and installations. It is important to engage the citizens, especially vibrant youths who are into cyber security.

“It is good to engage them to dispel negative information and counter damaging propaganda by terrorists and bandits. Engaging them will also help in national security.

“Also, citizens should be engaged to support the policies of the government, to counter the propaganda of bandits and terrorists.

“This is because the terrorists and bandits are also in the media space and the social media space.

“And it is good to bring them down, deal with them responsibly so that they will understand that the whole nation is against banditry and terrorism, ” Buratai said.

He commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as “true renewed hope agenda under renewed hope administration”.

Buratai explained that unlike before, the Tinubu-led administration has brought in policies that have a long term effect that would be felt for the betterment of the country.

“Renewed Hope Agenda is fundamental. It is not like a palliative approach. This is a complete departure. And we hope that as time goes on, the impact will be felt and Nigeria will be much better.

“We need a better environment for economic activities to thrive and for the society to grow. I congratulate the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace for organising the forum,” Buratai said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Nigeria winning war against insecurity – Intelligence Chief
Defence/Security

Nigeria winning war against insecurity – Intelligence Chief

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, says the nation’s security challenges are being tackled with huge successes in all fronts.

Undiandeye stated this during the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) First and Second Quarters Operational Brief for Foreign Defence Advisers/Attachés 2025, on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that the efforts of the military and other security agencies had continued to yield positive results in the North-East, North-West and South-South, adding that terrorism and other violent crisis were being controlled.

“We have greatly improved the security situation and if you look at the indices in the North-West, North-Central, North-East and South-South, it has greatly improved.

“Even the uptick in violence that we experienced in the North-East has been largely tamed and controlled.

“And so, on the average, we have had an improved security situation and that is the report that we had,” he said.

The CDI said the briefing to the defence advisors and attachés appointed to Nigeria was to give security updates in Nigeria for official communication and exchange to the allied nations.

He said that more than 30 defence advisors and attachés were in attendance, adding that the core message was that ‘Nigeria is doing well’.

According to him, the brief would be a morale booster for the troops who are fighting in different fronts, and that the government is not relenting in ensuring that their welfare and support is completely prioritised.

Earlier, the Director of Foreign Liaison, DIA, Brig.-Gen. Ojogbane Adegbe, said the event was intended to intimate the defence attaches on the prevailing security situation in Nigeria and the Sahel region.

Adegbe said the brief was timely considering the current threat environments to provide the official perspective with regards to Nigeria.

“Additionally, this brief will extend the impact of this development not only on the general security of lives of our citizenry but also its impact on the interests of our citizens.

“I am pleased to inform you all that the emphasis is in collaboration with all the security agencies who have been working tirelessly in ensuring the protection of lives and properties of our citizenry.

“This event also is a forum in which the defence attachés and advisers interact with not only the agency but also other sister security agencies and stakeholders who work closely with the embassies of Nigeria.

“This brief will undoubtedly keep us abreast with the current security situation as it affects our mission and daily activities,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Disinformation played significant role in Nigerian Civil War, says Obasanjo
Defence/Security

Disinformation played significant role in Nigerian Civil War, says Obasanjo

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War (1967 to 1970).

Obasanjo stated this at the Sixth Edition of Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium organised by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said the theme of the symposium, which is “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War’’ was germane especially in this era of asymmetric warfare.

According to him, disinformation, propaganda, psychological warfare and propagation of false narratives are means through which a weaker force attempts to discredit a superior force in asymmetric wars.

“Disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War, exacerbating tensions and influencing public opinion.

“The same strategy is currently being employed by the insurgents in North East and other violent groups in other parts of Nigeria.

“In line with the theme, the symposium will, therefore, highlight the importance of media and information operations in conflict resolution and nation-building,’’ he said.

The former president emphasised the need for Nigeria to be deliberate and diligent in the study of history, particularly military history to bring out and apply valuable lessons.

He quoted a popular saying that “a child that does not learn history will be told history’’, adding that understanding the past would help to better navigate the present and build a more equitable future for all Nigerians.

Obasanjo commended AWCN for the inclusion of the study of the Nigerian Civil War in its curriculum to enhance the capacities of operational level leaders to effectively apply the lessons from past campaigns in operational planning.

“This fratricidal conflict left an indelible mark on our nation’s collective memory and continues to shape our identity.

“The war’s complex causes, consequences and lessons offer valuable insights for us all,” he added.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen.  Olufemi Oluyede, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. P. E. Eromosele, described the symposium as a vital platform for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military.

Oluyede praised the theme’s relevance to current operations and reiterated the army’s commitment to building a combat-ready force guided by sound leadership and informed strategy.

Earlier, the Commandant of AWCN, Maj.-Gen. Umar Alkali, said the symposium was designed to enhance the intellectual and leadership capacity of officers undergoing the AWCN Course 9/2025.

Alkali said the college deliberately included the study of the civil war in its curriculum to help participants dissect and draw practical lessons from historical campaigns.

He said the theme aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy ‘to building a combat-ready and professional force capable of delivering on its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment’.

“This symposium allows us to analyse past military operations at strategic, operational, and tactical levels.

“By understanding how disinformation shaped the Nigerian Civil War, we are better equipped to manage the information space in today’s battles,” he said.

The guest lecturer, Prof. Christopher Ogbogbo, who is the Vice Chancellor of Admiralty University, dissected the role of propaganda, media manipulation, and false narratives during the conflict.

He illustrated how misinformation often shaped public perception and policy decisions during the war. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Secure custodial centres or face sanctions- NCoS warns personnel
Defence/Security

Secure custodial centres or face sanctions- NCoS warns personnel

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Controller General, Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has warned that any lapses by personnel would attract severe consequences.

The Controller General said this in an emergency virtual strategy meeting convened on Tuesday in Abuja.

The Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Abubakar Umar, said all zonal coordinators attended the meeting.

Also in attendance to address growing security concerns ahead of the festive season and anticipated heavy rains were commandants of training colleges and schools, as well as state command controllers.

Nwakuche tasked them to focus on proactive strategies to prevent security breaches and ensure the integrity of custodial operations nationwide.

He directed an immediate audit of all correctional facilities to assess potential vulnerabilities, activation of risk mitigation measures at high-risk centres, and reinforcement of surveillance and internal control mechanisms.

“This is not just about concrete walls and iron bars. It’s about trust, duty, and the safety of every Nigerian. The time for complacency is over.”

The controller general also directed them to identify and root out weak links within the custodial chain and reminded them of the service’s zero-tolerance policy on negligence, collusion, or dereliction of duty.

“Any officer found complicit in any form of security lapse will face stiff sanctions,” he added.

Nwakuche listened to inputs from officers across the regions, commending constructive suggestions while issuing admonitions where necessary.

He challenged them to embrace innovation and inter-agency collaboration in confronting evolving threats.

He called for renewed unity, vigilance, and professionalism among correctional staff, with emphasis on strengthening coordination with other security agencies and community stakeholders. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Nigeria Customs says it has handled shooting incident in viral video
Defence/Security

Nigeria Customs says it has handled shooting incident in viral video

By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it has handled the viral video capturing a tragic shooting incident involving its operatives.

The service’s Spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, made this known on Tuesday in Abuja.

Maiwada said that the incident occurred on Feb. 17 in 2019, and was not a recent development as portrayed by some online platforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the incident, which resulted in the death of Mr Godwin Agada Onoja, occurred during an anti-smuggling operation at the Shagamu Interchange along the Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway.

Reacting to the situation during the period, the NCS detained four officers involved and initiated an investigation on the incident.

According to the spokesman, the service took immediate steps to address the situation in line with its internal procedures during the period, resulting in the dismissal of the involved personnel.

“A public statement was issued at the time, and a disciplinary panel was established to investigate the matter thoroughly.

“At the end of the process, appropriate sanctions were applied, including the dismissal of the officers found culpable.

“It is pertinent to reiterate that the NCS is a statutory government agency guided by rules of engagement and, therefore, will not condone any misconduct from its personnel.

“While the video may have resurfaced unexpectedly, the issue had been conclusively addressed, and justice was served in accordance with the service’s regulations,” he explained.

He acknowledged the various concerns raised by members of the public regarding the resurfaced video.

Maiwada, however, urged them to disregard misleading content, and instead seek accurate information through NCS official channels.

According to him, NCS deeply values the vigilance and feedback of Nigerians, reaffirming the service’s commitment to delivering professional, accountable service while upholding the principles of integrity and respect for human dignity.

“Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team, the NCS continues to uphold transparency and respect for the rule of law.

“This is evident in the strategic measures implemented to strengthen internal controls and capacity building through targeted training programmes for personnel.

“These efforts underscore the service’s resolve to build trust, ensure integrity, and sustain mutually rewarding partnerships with the public,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

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