News Agency of Nigeria
Tinubu calls for united African defence strategy against insecurity

Tinubu calls for united African defence strategy against insecurity

Crime

By Salisu Sani-Idris

President Bola Tinubu has emphasised the urgent need for collective action and cooperation among African nations to effectively tackle terrorism, cybercrime, transnational crime, and other security threats across the continent.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the maiden edition of the African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit 2025 in Abuja, President Tinubu urged defence chiefs to develop a new continental defence doctrine.

He said the strategy must be anchored on trust, shared intelligence, and coordinated action to effectively address the growing security challenges facing the African continent.

He stressed that the scale of threats on the continent demanded a united response.

“From the deserts where insurgency festers, to the high seas where piracy prowls, from the silent corridors of cybercrime to the ruthless networks of transnational criminals, none of these tragedies respects borders,” Tinubu said.

He emphasised that in the face of such widespread threats, African nations must not respond in isolation, adding, “Neither should our response.”

“This is the moment to reassess our military objectives in the collective aspiration to make Africa safe.”

Highlighting Africa’s interconnectedness, Tinubu described the continent as a family whose shared geography and destiny demanded mutual defence.

“In this family, defence is the first expression of love each member can promise the other,” he added.

He proposed the establishment of a permanent African Chiefs of Defence Staff Forum, which would serve as a platform for continuous dialogue, strategic planning, and operational coordination.

“This summit must not end with applause. Let it become a cornerstone of Africa’s new security architecture,” he said.

Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to regional peace and cooperation through peacekeeping missions, counterterrorism, and humanitarian efforts.

He urged African countries to invest in cyber defence, artificial intelligence, and indigenous military innovation, adding that Africa must move beyond merely consuming technology to becoming creators and owners of security tools.

“Africa cannot remain merely a consumer of technology; we must be creators, innovators, and owners of the tools that secure our tomorrow,” he declared.

He also called for partnerships with the private sector to drive investment in defence innovation and capacity building.

Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, Tinubu said their legacies must be honoured through the institutions, values, and partnerships that secured Africa’s future.

Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, represented by Minister of State, Bello Matawalle, described the summit as a bold step in African security cooperation and called for African-driven solutions to the continent’s challenges.

Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, described the summit as the beginning of a new era in African security, noting that the continent could not afford to be passive in the face of modern threats.

ECOWAS Commission President, Dr Omar Touray, represented by Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, affirmed that the initiative aligned with President Tinubu’s vision for a more secure Africa and emphasised regional cooperation.

Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and urged his counterparts to lead efforts in cyber defence, AI, and indigenous technology.

Also speaking, former Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, commended the summit and called for stronger coordination and intelligence-sharing across the continent.

He emphasised that Africa must build and own its security framework to ensure long-term peace and stability.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NDELA destroys 75,544kg skunk in Edo, Delta, Ondo, Taraba forests

NDELA destroys 75,544kg skunk in Edo, Delta, Ondo, Taraba forests

Skunk
By Ibironke Ariyo
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has destroyed 75, 544 kilograms of skunk in operations carried out across forests in Edo, Delta, Ondo and Taraba States.

NDLEA’s  Director, Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Babafemi said that a total of 14,233.37 kilograms of skunk were destroyed in four plantations measuring 5.69375 hectares at Ebule forest, Owan West Local Government Area(LGA), Edo on Aug. 20.

“Similarly, in Delta, NDLEA operatives supported by the military destroyed a total of 25,500kg skunk on four plantations measuring 10.2 hectares in Emu-Obiogu community, Ndokwa West LGA on Aug. 21.

“Also in Ondo State, 25,025kg of same psychoactive substance was destroyed on three farms with a combined measurement of 10.01 hectares at Asolo camp, Uso area of the state, ” he said.

According to him, NDLEA operatives in conjunction with Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Aug. 20, destroyed 7,500kg skunk on three hectares of farmland at Dadin-Kowa village, Bali LGA, Taraba.

Babafemi said that 901kg of same substance was evacuated from a warehouse at Uzebba in Owan West LGA, Edo.

He added that a 54-year-old female suspect was arrested on Aug. 19, in connection with the substance.

“Meanwhile, two dispatch riders were on Aug. 21, arrested by NDLEA operatives during a stop and search operation in Jabi area of Abuja for distributing illicit substances in the FCT.

“While a male suspect, 29, was caught with 300 milligrams of pentazocine injection, another 35 years old suspect was nabbed with 8.64grams of skunk packaged for delivery,” he added.

He said that various commands and formations of the agency across the country had continued their War Against Drug Abuse, sensitisation to schools, worship centres, work places and communities.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Kevin Okunzuwa

Troops neutralise scores of terrorists in Borno, Yobe, recover arms

Troops neutralise scores of terrorists in Borno, Yobe, recover arms

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have neutralised several terrorists in multiple operations across Borno and Yobe States, a military source has said.

The source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the operations were part of sustained efforts to deny Boko Haram and Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists freedom of action in the North East.

According to the source, on Aug. 22, troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade repelled a night attack on their Forward Operating Base at Kumshe in Borno.

He said the terrorists, who launched the attack in large numbers with assorted weapons, suffered heavy casualties following combined ground resistance and precision air bombardments by the Nigerian Air Force.

“Exploitation after the encounter revealed more than 20 bodies of neutralised terrorists, including dismembered remains hastily buried in shallow graves. Some weapons were also recovered during the operation,” the source said.

He added that Sector 1 troops, on the same day, conducted offensive operations at Dipchari near Banki Junction in Bama Local Government Area, where scores of terrorists were killed in a firefight.

Items recovered, he said, included a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) tube, two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, 16 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

The source further said that on Aug. 23, Sector 2 troops in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force carried out a long-range operation around Ndoksa near Buni Gari in Yobe, where more terrorists were neutralised.

“One AK-47 rifle and two motorcycles were recovered during the operation,” he said.

The source added that the coordinated operations had degraded the terrorists’ firepower, disrupted their logistics, and bolstered troops’ dominance in the region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Pregnant woman allegedly dismembered by brother -in-law in Ilorin

Pregnant woman allegedly dismembered by brother -in-law in Ilorin

Dismembered

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

‎The police  command in Kwara says it arrested a man, who allegedly dismembered the body of his pregnant sister-in-law, Mrs Esther Enemo at Egbejila Road in Temidire community, Ilorin.

This is contained in a statement by the command Spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on Saturday in Ilorin.

According to Ejire-Adeyemi, the command wishes to inform members of the public of a tragic incident that occurred in the early hours of Aug. 21, at Temidire community in Ilorin.

‎”At about 9 a.m., a resident of the area, reported a suspected foul play within the residence of one Mrs Esther Enemo.

“In a swift response, a team of police detectives visited the scene, where the dismembered body of Mrs Esther Enemo (aged 39 years) was discovered in the bush behind her residence.

“Further search led to the recovery of other parts of her body concealed in a sack and dumped beneath a nearby community bridge.

‎”The suspect, (names  withheld), aged 29 years, younger brother to the victim’s husband, who was seen leaving the house a few minutes before the discovery of the incident, has been arrested in connection with the crime.

” Meanwhile, the husband, has also been contacted for necessary clarification.

“The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) morgue for autopsy.

‎”The  Commissioner of Police (CP), Ojo Adekimi, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the matter, assuring that the command will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served,” he said.

Ejire-Adeyemi expressed the command’s regret of the unfortunate incident and appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculations that would incite fear or tension within the community.

He assured that the police would unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and bring the perpetrators to face the full weight of the law.

He urged the residents to continue to cooperate with the police by providing useful information that would aid ongoing investigations and security operations.

He reiterated the command’s resolve to protect all residents and ensure peace prevailed in the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joe Idika

Police detain Chinese miner over illegal operations in Anambra

Police detain Chinese miner over illegal operations in Anambra

Detention
By Obinna Unaeze

The Police Command in Anambra has detained a suspected Chinese miner over alleged illegal mining activities in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area of the state.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement in Awka.

According to him, operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, on Aug. 22 received the suspect from officials of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade).

“The suspect, identified as Mu Hua Qiang, 45, a resident of Aguleri, was arrested for his alleged involvement in illegal mining operations within the community.

“His statement has been voluntarily obtained, and he has been placed in lawful custody for further investigation,” Ikenga said.

He added that further details on the case would be made public upon conclusion of investigations.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Baby Sale: Ebonyi govt. commits to protection of vulnerables

Baby Sale: Ebonyi govt. commits to protection of vulnerables

By Uchenna Ugwu

The Ebonyi government has pledged its commitment to the continuously protection of the interest of the vulnerable in the state.

 

The State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Felicia Nwamkpuma, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki.

 

She made the pledge following her alleged involvement in incident of the alleged N25 million baby sale circulating in the state.

 

NAN recalls that a 37-year-old single mother, Susan Nweze, and her family had alleged her newborn baby boy was sold for N25 million by the police command, other security agencies and the Ministry.

 

Susan’s family had petitioned the Force Zonal Headquarters of Police in Enugu on the incident.

 

However, in a swift reaction, the Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) in the zone invited the parties involved including the Commissioner, who was asked to come along with the baby.

 

The commissioner stressed that there was media reports that she was arrested and detained by the Police in Enugu over the allegation.

 

She said she was not arrested but only invited by the AIG to bring the baby.

 

“The  AIG saw the baby boy, didn’t he? I will want to beg the public to believe in Ebonyi government and  the ministry.

 

“Ebonyi Governor, Francis Nwifuru, is committed to protecting the poor, vulnerable and the destitute children in the state,” she said.

 

She added that the police investigation on the alleged N25 million baby sale was ongoing.

 

“I must tell you, however, that the baby boy in question is under the care and supervision of the ministry.

 

‘The people of Ebonyi should know that the present administration is for them.

 

“Those, who cannot take care of themselves, the government is here for them.

 

”The poor, vulnerable and destitute persons are all protected through the ministry,” the Commissioner stated.

 

She, however, commended the security agencies for their support to the ministry, saying it had been “superb”.

 

“I urge the public to abide by the law while giving babies for adoption.

 

“Always follow the due process to avoid controversy during and after the adoption,” Nwamkpuma advised. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bukola Adetoye/Ismail Abdulaziz

National Defence College graduates 99 participants of Course 33

National Defence College graduates 99 participants of Course 33

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Defence College (NDC) on Friday graduated 99 participants of Course 33, comprising senior officers from the Armed Forces, strategic ministries, departments, agencies, and allied countries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants from 19 countries participated in the 11 months programme.

The countries represented include the Republic of Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Brazil, Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, Egypt, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, and India.

Others are Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

The participants consisted of 25 officers from the Nigerian Army, 16 from the Nigerian Navy, 12 from the Nigerian Air Force, five from the Nigeria Police Force, 18 from ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as 23 international participants.

NAN recalls that the course, which commenced on Sept. 27, 2024, initially enrolled 100 participants but lost one Nigerian Navy officer during the programme.

The Commandant of the College, Rear Adm. James Okosun, said the participants had been equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to address complex security and developmental challenges.

He said the training was delivered through a comprehensive curriculum of nine modules, covering areas such as research methodology, science and technology, policy analysis, strategic leadership development, and crisis simulation.

According to him, the curriculum combined lectures, seminars, simulations, study tours, and research work, while Course 33 focused on the overarching theme: “National Security and Development in Nigeria.”

Okosun further explained that the higher management of defence module featured national crisis simulations and critical reviews of current defence and security policies.

“This year’s exercise examined issues such as banditry in the North-West, separatist agitation in the South-East and oil theft in the Niger Delta.

“The participants were also trained in public speaking, strategic assessments, and policy implementation.

“We are confident that they are well prepared to offer implementable solutions to national, regional and global challenges,” he said.

The Commandant noted that in addition to their individual research projects, the participants jointly produced a group research paper titled ‘Connecting Indigenous Manufacturing for National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040.’

He said the paper, which contained actionable recommendations, had been presented to relevant decision-making authorities, while participants from the military, police, and other services also developed research tailored to their respective chiefs.”

Okosun added that key findings and recommendations from the study tours were formally transmitted to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for policy review and improved service delivery.

“These efforts underscored the intellectual depth and practical relevance of the education provided in the college,” he said.

The commandant commended the faculty, led by the Deputy Commandant and supported by the Provost of the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, for their dedication to the successful delivery of the programme.

He also acknowledged the regular participation of international officers, saying their presence enriched discussions and fostered enduring bonds across nations.

According to him, the continued presence of international participants attests to the global recognition and standing of the college, with many alumni serving as ambassadors of goodwill and expanding the influence of the NDC alumni network worldwide.

Reflecting on the 33 years of the college, Okosun said NDC had continued to shape Nigeria’s strategic landscape through alumni who served with distinction in military, diplomatic and policy roles.

He stressed that the college remained focused on cultivating critical and strategic thinking, adding that graduates of Course 33 were well prepared to drive meaningful changes in their organisations and nations.

“You have earned the distinguished title of Fellows of the Defence College. As we often say, you are now well equipped to take on the world,” he told the graduates.

NAN reports that the high point of the event was the presentation of certificates to the participants and awards of excellence to deserving participants for best research papers.

There was also the unveiling of NDC’s Strategic Lenses Series 9 by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Echefu hails I-G’s support for indigenous security solutions

Echefu hails I-G’s support for indigenous security solutions

By Patricia Amogu

Dr Bright Echefu, Chairman of EIB STRATOC, has commended the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Kayode Egbetokun, for recognising and supporting indigenous expertise in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

Echefu, in a statement on Friday outlined the I-G’s leadership as forward-thinking.

The commendation followed Egbetokun’s inspection of state-of-the-art intelligence installations at Idu community in Abuja.

It was as part of efforts to deepen intelligence-led policing in the country.

He stressed that EIB STRATOC remained committed to providing innovative homegrown solutions to enhance national security.

“We are grateful to the I-G for recognising and supporting local expertise. EIB STRATOC remains dedicated to providing innovative security solutions that will continue to enhance national security,” he said.

The statement quotes Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, as saying the visit was part of strategic engagements between the Police and indigenous security experts to boost operational capacity and public trust.

It also quotes the I-G as reaffirming that intelligence gathering remained the bedrock of 21st-century policing, while stressing the Force’s commitment to harnessing technology, innovation and expertise to stay ahead of security threats.

Egbetokun was accompanied on the visit by senior officers, including DIG Ben Nebeolisa Okolo (Force Intelligence Department), DIG Adebowale Williams (ICT), AIG Adeleke Taiwo (Operations), and CP Felix Obe (Federal Operations).

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that EIB STRATOC is a Nigerian security solutions company specialising in intelligence, surveillance, geospatial systems, and cybersecurity.

It operates a fusion centre that integrates advanced technology and expertise to detect, prevent, and respond to security threats.

The firm has handled projects for national and state agencies, including building fusion centres, monitoring oil infrastructure, and supporting security operations with AI-powered analytics and real-time monitoring tools. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

COAS pledges robust logistics, better troop welfare at army training week

COAS pledges robust logistics, better troop welfare at army training week

By Usman Aliyu

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening logistics support, improving troop welfare, and enhancing synergy with sister agencies.

Oluyede reiterated the commitment in Benin at the close of the 26th Combat Service Support (CSS) Training Week 2025 hosted at the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport (NSST).

The Chief of Army Staff, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Ndalolo, Chief of Training (Army), said the commitment was to sharpen the force’s operational effectiveness.

According to him, logistics remains the lifeline of military operations and must be enhanced if the army is to meet its constitutional responsibilities.

“This year’s training has provided a forum for the realistic assessment of the ability of the Combat Service Support Corps to efficiently provide logistic support for Nigerian Army operations.

“On my part, I wish to reaffirm my commitment to provide even more support.

“This output can only be enhanced when our soldiers are well administered and their basic needs well catered to.

“Remember the welfare of all Nigerian Army officers remains my utmost priority as it powers my command philosophy,” he said.

The COAS urged participants not to allow the week’s lessons to end on paper but to translate them into measurable improvements.

“I urge all members to develop workable timelines for the implementation of the recommendations arising from this training week, and ensure that you follow it up to a logical conclusion.

“Invest in your troops by delivering the type of leadership that captures our honour and integrity.

“Lead by example, not just in the tenets of discipline, selfless service, and professionalism, but in your daily interactions with those you command,” he said.

The army chief also commended the leadership and personnel of the Combat Service Support Corps for their “excellent job” in sustaining army operations nationwide.

He, however, charged them to improve on their standing as threats facing the country evolved.

Oluyede commended President Bola Tinubu for his support to the army, and Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo for hosting the week-long programme.

Reading the communiqué, Maj.-Gen. Adekunle Adeyinka, Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Transport and Supply (NACST), said the discussions centred on developing an integrated logistics doctrine.

He said these measures were aimed at strengthening command relationships within the CSS Corps, standardising procedures, and enhancing interoperability with other services.

Adeyinka added that participants also pushed for the adoption of modern technologies in training and operations.

He asserted that the trainees also advocated improved synergy across the joint environment, and practical measures to ensure troops receive timely, effective support in all theatres of operation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the four-day programme drew participants from across four Nigerian Army corps, other sister security agencies, and stakeholders in the national security sector. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kevin Okunzuwa

COAS inaugurates key projects in 6 divisions, pledges stronger civil-military relations

COAS inaugurates key projects in 6 divisions, pledges stronger civil-military relations

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has inaugurated landmark projects during his three-day operational tour of 6 Division’s Area of Responsibility.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, said the projects, spread across Rivers, Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom, were initiated and executed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Eric Emekah, alongside his subordinate commanders.

She said the projects were executed with the aim to improve the working and living conditions of personnel.

In Port Harcourt Barracks, Anele said the COAS inaugurated the Headquarters 6 Division Office Complex Extension and the Python Harmony Centre.

According to her, he also inaugurated a cluster of projects by the 6 Division Garrison under Brig.-Gen. S. Ahmed.

“These included two new blocks of 10-family Corporal and Below Quarters (CBQs), seven remodelled CBQs, a remodelled Cantonment Office, and a newly constructed Petroleum Oil Lubricant Point.

“At 29 Battalion, the COAS unveiled a remodelled Quarter Guard and another set of 10 CBQs, reinforcing what he described as his commitment to the “Soldier First” initiative.

“In Bayelsa, Oluyede inaugurated the 16 Brigade Annex Complex executed by the Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Oluremi Obolo.

“He also unveiled an electrification project provided by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as part of its corporate social responsibility, and inaugurated a new Garrison House built by Lt.-Col. Sheriff Kaigama.

“Other projects inspected included the remodelled Quarter Guard of 5 Battalion, the refurbished Commanding Officer’s House of 343 Artillery Regiment, and the installation of a new transformer,” she said.

Anele said the army chief also performed the groundbreaking for the construction of 20 units of two-bedroom flats for senior non-commissioned officers at Elele Barracks in Rivers.

She said the COAS also inspected the newly remodelled medical reception station, a critical addition to troop welfare and healthcare delivery at Wellington Barrack in Akwa Ibom.

While addressing troops of 29 Battalion in Port Harcourt and 6 Battalion in Ibagwa, Akwa Ibom, the COAS commended their resilience in anti-oil theft and pipeline protection operations, urging them to sustain their discipline and dedication.

He assured the personnel that their welfare, training and operational needs would remain top priorities under his leadership.

“The Nigerian Army will continue to reward commitment, professionalism and selfless service. Your sacrifices are not taken for granted,” he said.

During a visit to Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Oluyede noted that the Nigerian Army belonged to all Nigerians.

He stated that the sustained partnership between the army and Akwa Ibom Government had contributed to the state’s reputation as one of the most peaceful in the federation.

Responding, Eno praised the army for its outstanding role in maintaining peace and security, particularly through the 2 Brigade.

He assured of his administration’s continued partnership with the military in ensuring the safety and prosperity of residents. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

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