News Agency of Nigeria
Speaker, minister hail military, police officers’ wives on contribution to education
Defence/Security

Speaker, minister hail military, police officers’ wives on contribution to education

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, have commended the wives of military and police officers for their commitment to promoting quality education in the country.

They gave the commendation during the Groundbreaking and Fundraising Ceremony of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) College, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The speaker, who was represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, said there could be no better way to contribute to build the future of a teaming young Nigerians than investing in education.

He commended the leadership of DEPOWA for considering education as a priority and resolve to channel their energy towards building a school for the children of officers and personnel of the defence sector.

Abbas said it was also gratifying to note that efforts were geared towards supporting the children whose parents had dedicated their lives to the security of lives and property of the citizens.

According to him, providing access to good education is a legacy that endures for life.

“Today, DEPOWA has started a journey that will change and transform the lives of so many children.

“It is easy for those watching this ceremony to interrogate the project on the proposition that there are so many schools out there. So, why should DEPOWA embark on building new schools?

“The statistics of children in Nigeria age between five to 14 not registered in school are about 10.5 million.

“This indicates that the number of schools available to Nigerian children is still far less than the number required to go to school, including the children of the personnel of the security agencies.

“The school as proposed by DEPOWA is very elaborate and comprehensive. It is exciting that the designers have made provision for facilities that will enhance the total development of children in this school,” he said.

The speaker said the vision behind the development of the school underscored the goals of the legislative agenda of the 10th House of Representatives.

This, according to him, captures the need for access to education for the Nigerian child.

“We hold a view in the house that education is a priority, and we fully support this school project by DEPOWA,” he said.

The Minister of Defence, Badaru said the initiative embodies the unwavering commitment of the military and police families to nation-building.

He commended the association for its visionary leadership in championing the noble cause, adding that the college would serve as the beacon of hope, excellence, and opportunity for the children of the brave service members.

The minister said the college would alleviate educational burden while fostering academic excellence and moral integrity among students.

He called on all stakeholders, government agencies, corporate organisations, and public individuals to contribute generously to the project.

“A well-educated generation, nurtured in an environment of discipline and patriotism, is critical to sustaining peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.

“The Ministry of Defence stands in solidarity with the power and pledges full support to ensure the timely completion of this project,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

NSA hands over 60 rescued kidnaped victims, warns against ransom payment
Defence/Security

NSA hands over 60 rescued kidnaped victims, warns against ransom payment

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has again handed over 60 kidnapped victims rescued by security agencies to their families and warned against ransom payment to kidnappers.

Ribadu said that paying ransom to kidnappers would only encourage them to continue in the crime, adding that it was also counterproductive.

He disclosed that even after ransom was paid by the families of many of the rescued victims, the kidnappers were still not ready to release the victims.

“Once again, we are here to do what we have done a couple of times already, that is, to handover rescued victims of kidnap and banditry to their families.

“Evil people turn our lives upside down. They are the victims. Many of them have been with them for a couple of months, but we thank God.

“Today, we are releasing 60, and hopefully that will be the final one from that part of Nigeria. Last week, we did about 50.

“I want to once again use the opportunity to thank our armed forces, our security forces, and indeed, the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, who is working daily to restore order, security, and stability.

“Daily, we are getting freedom back to our own people. We will continue to do so. We will not relent and we will not stop,” he said.

Ribadu assured that the military and security agencies would go after the criminals, adding that releasing the victims was not the end of the story.

According to him, we will make sure that justice is done. Anybody who is involved will never see peace.

“But I want to also use this opportunity to talk to our people to please, stop giving money to these people. It is one of the worst things that is happening.

“The families of many of these people, as you see them, gave monies to their abductors, but it did not lead to their release. It is we, the security forces, that still rescued them.

“I want to make a very strong appeal to all, it is understandable that when your person is in captivity, you will do whatever it takes for you to get him back. But this is counterproductive,” he said.

Earlier, the National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the 60 victims were rescued on Monday at about 1200hrs, by the 1 Division Nigerian Army troops supported by other security and intelligence agencies.

Laka said the victims were rescued mostly from Lere, Zangon Katar and Kagarko Local Government Areas of Kaduna State and FCT Abuja.

He said that the victims comprised of 35 males and 25 females, including a Deputy Director, from the National Assembly Commission, Adesanya Michael, kidnapped from Kubwa, FCT and Ishaya Kuka, a brother to Bishop Mathew Kukah.

According to him, they were kidnapped from their houses and farms within the above-mentioned locations.

“A preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were kidnapped by suspected armed bandits under the command of notorious bandit leaders, YELLOW ONE MILLION, YELLOW MAIDUNA, SHEHU REKEB and FARIN YELLOW.

“The victims were subjected to various inhumane treatments while at the camps.

“Subsequently, upon receiving the victims, ONSA provided them with all the necessary first aid assistance required to stabilise them for subsequent handing over to 1 Division for rehabilitation,” he said.

One of the rescued victims, Mr Adesanya Michael, thanked the security forces for ensuring their safe release from the kidnappers, whom he described as heartless.

He said their abductors treated them like animals without human feelings. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

COAS inaugurates new projects in 3 Div
Defence/Security

COAS inaugurates new projects in 3 Div

By Polycarp Auta

Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), on Tuesday inaugurated some newly constructed and renovated projects at the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new projects were blocks of offices and residential accommodation for both officers and soldiers.

Speaking, Oluyede said that the projects were initiated to enhance the welfare and well-being of soldiers in the division.

“These projects are part of our commitment to improving the welfare and wellbeing of our troops and their families.

“We will continue to do our best within available resources to improve your welfare,” the COAS promised.

The army chief, who decried poor infrastructure in schools within the cantonment, promised to improve their conditions to enhance teaching and learning.

“I’m not happy with the condition of infrastructure in primary and secondary schools in our barracks.

“I have challenged the education corps so that we can tackle these challenges.

“I want to see my soldiers produce doctors, lawyers, and engineers.

“We need to have children who will contribute to the growth of the society,” he said. (NAN (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

Customs intercepts N18m worth of controlled drugs at Mfum border
Defence/Security

Customs intercepts N18m worth of controlled drugs at Mfum border

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of controlled drugs valued at over N18 million at the Mfum Border in Cross River.

The Customs Area Controller for Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command, Comptroller Chukwudi Ogbonna, made this known during a news conference held in Calabar on Tuesday.

According to Ogbonna, the seizure occurred on March 29 and involved a total of 649 units of restricted drugs.

He credited the successful operation to the vigilance and dedication of officers on duty at the time.

The confiscated items included 37 units of Phenobarbital Sodium Sterop 100mg, 216 units of Pethidine 100mg Solution Injection, and 108 units of Fentanyl 50mm.

 

Other seized items included 216 units of Morphine Sulfate 10mg/ml, 49 units of Phenobarbital Sodium Injection, and 23 units of Midazolam Mylan 5mg/ml.

“These are highly regulated substances, and their movement without proper authorisation poses a serious risk to public health and national security,” he stated.

Ogbonna said in line with the Memorandum of Understanding between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the seized drugs would be officially handed over to the state command of the NDLEA.

The Comptroller underscored the power of collaboration and called on all operatives to work collaboratively in the national interest.

“Today’s event is a testament to the power of teamwork. By leveraging each other’s strengths, we can better serve and protect our country,” he said.

The State Commander of the NDLEA, Rachel Umebuali, commended the NCS for the successful operation.

She highlighted the importance of continued collaboration among security and enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and other cross-border crimes.

“Teamwork among agencies like ours is crucial. This handover is a clear example of how cooperation leads to success,” Umebuali said.

She added that the NDLEA would carry out further investigations to trace the origin and intended destination of the seized drugs. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

NSA seeks proactive strategies to counter threats of extremist groups
Defence/Security

NSA seeks proactive strategies to counter threats of extremist groups

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for dynamic, proactive, and relevant strategies to effectively counter the threats posed by the activities of extremist groups.

Ribadu made the call at the Pre-Review Workshop for the Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in Nigeria, held on Monday in Abuja.

Ribadu was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Hajiya Idayat Hassan, at the workshop organised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), in collaboration with its foreign partners.

He said that Nigeria, like many nations, faced the devastating consequences of violent extremism including loss of lives, destruction of communities, and erosion of the social fabric of the nation.

According to him, these effects serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective strategy to counter these threats and provide actionable solutions.

“However, the fight against violent extremism is not static; it demands constant vigilance, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to address evolving threats.

“Extremist groups continue to evolve, adapting their tactics and exploiting new technologies and online platforms to spread their ideologies.

“To effectively counter these threats, our strategies must remain dynamic, proactive, and relevant.

“This review also presents an opportunity to critically assess past interventions, identifying successes and areas that require improvement to refine our approaches and incorporate best practices,” he said.

Ribadu said it was essential to align the efforts with national security priorities and international obligations, ensuring that the strategies remain consistent with global standards and contribute to broader regional and international security objectives.

He commended the stakeholders for the inclusive methodology adopted for the review, describing it as transparent and data-driven.

”The broad spectrum of stakeholders engaged spanning government agencies, civil society organisations, academia, religious and community leaders, and international partners reflects our commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to preventing and countering violent extremism.

“Let me state that this review must focus on key areas such as enhancing community resilience, countering online radicalisation, and improving rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

“Empowering communities to resist radicalisation and addressing the root causes of extremism are critical.

“Similarly, given the increasing use of digital platforms by extremist groups, it is imperative to develop effective strategies to counter online radicalisation, amplify counter-narratives, and enhance digital literacy.

“Rehabilitation and reintegration must also be approached comprehensively, providing former extremists with pathways back into society while addressing community concerns.

“Additionally, there is a need to improve inter-agency coordination to enhance intelligence sharing and operational effectiveness,” he added.

He added that a robust monitoring and evaluation framework would ensure accountability and track progress.

The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the review underscored the need to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of extremism, adding that the threats would undoubtedly continue to evolve.

Laka said that responses must remain dynamic, proactive, and effective in countering emerging challenges.

He explained that the workshop would provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework, identify strengths, and address any gaps.

According to him, the expertise, insights and recommendations of the stakeholders will be invaluable in ensuring that the revised framework is comprehensive, responsive, and reflective of current realities.

“We recognise that this fight cannot be waged in isolation; it requires the concerted efforts of government agencies, civil society organisations, academia, religious leaders, community representatives, and international partners.

“I urge everyone to approach it with an open mind, a spirit of collaboration, and a firm commitment to strengthening our national resilience,” he said.

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, said that both the EU and Nigeria were members of the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF).

”The workshop is another excellent example of how efforts between governments, members of the GCTF and organisations inspired by it, can effectively work together in addressing the drivers of violent extremism and terrorism and the factors that enable them, Mignot said.

He said that the emergence of terrorist groups in Northwest Nigeria and other parts of the country underscored the importance to invest further in preventing and fighting the scourge of terrorism.

According to him, the ripple effects are far-reaching, highlighting the urgency of coordinated, innovative responses.

“The EU commends the efforts made by the government of Nigeria to tackle the threat of terrorism both at national and regional level but we are aware that there is need for further work and investments.

“In this context, taking the time to sit down, reflect and consult to update strategies and policies is a very necessary endeavour, especially when it comes to a phenomenon so complex and detrimental like extremism, we know this also in Europe.

“The EU is proud to be supporting Nigeria in these efforts, in particular through a number of interventions to prevent and counter violent extremism working with government, civil society organisations and traditional and religious leaders, but also more broadly,” he said.

Mignot said the EU would launch projects worth 300 million Euros in grants for the Northwest and the Northeast, most affected by extremism.

According to him, this package of projects covers challenges like quality education and skills development with a particular focus on girls and out-of-school children.

“It also covers access to reproductive and adolescent health, support to IDPs and the poorest and most vulnerable in communities affected by insecurity and climate change, by creating economic opportunities.

“In the Lake Chad Basin, in particular, in Nigeria and neighbouring countries, we are supporting the economic recovery, resilience and social cohesion of communities affected by conflict.

“We are also supporting the development of the pastoral economy and the transboundary water management of the basin,” he said . (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Sadiya Hamza

Customs TCIP Command generates N347.9bn for Q1 2025
Defence/Security

Customs TCIP Command generates N347.9bn for Q1 2025

By Aisha Cole

The Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, says the command generated N347.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025.

The comptroller, through his Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, made this known to newsmen in Lagos on Monday.

Onyeka said the command adopted Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi’s policy of consolidation, collaboration and innovation in carrying out its functions, which aided its performance.

According to him, in January 2025, the command generated N116.4 billion in revenue, which represents 24 per cent over and above the figure of N88.4 billion recorded within the corresponding period of 2024.

He said that the command generated N103.2 billion in February 2025, which stood at 2.9 per cent over the N100.2 billion generated in the corresponding period of 2024.

Onyeka said that the command generated the sum of N128.2 billion in March 2025, which is 10.3 per cent higher than the N115.1 billion generated during the corresponding period of 2024.

“The total amount generated for the first quarter of 2025 is N347.93 billion, which is 12.6 per cent higher than the N304 billion generated in the corresponding period of 2024.

“There is a need for stakeholders to make more honest declarations to reduce the time for cargo clearance and facilitate trade.

“I promise to continue engaging stakeholders in every way possible so that there can be more improvement in all aspects of their operations,” Onyeka said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign MoU on narcotic control
Defence/Security

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign MoU on narcotic control

By Ibironke Ariyo
Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen operational partnership in narcotics control.

The agreement was signed on Monday in Riyadh by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

A statement by Femi Babafemi, the Director Media and Advocacy, NDLEA, said the two countries also agreed to tighten the noose on drug trafficking networks within their territories.

Speaking at the event, the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, said that both countries have long been allies across various spheres.

Marwa, who was accompanied by the Agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) Ahmed Ningi, said that both countries have a history of strong bilateral relations.

“However, today marks a particularly significant milestone, one that has been long overdue and holds immense importance for both our nations.

“Today’s event marks the culmination of the strong relationship between our two nations, particularly between our respective anti-narcotics agencies, NDLEA and GDNC,” Marwa said.

He said that the partnership was not only a matter of engagements but had extended to a deeper connection, as evidenced by the signing of the MoU.

This, he added, would no doubt build on the collective expertise and establish effective strategies to address the complexities of narcotics control.

Explaining the significance of the agreement, Marwa said “Illicit drugs have become a global challenge that transcends geographical and ideological divides.

“Whether in the East or West, North or South, drug trafficking and abuse pose a shared threat to humanity.

“Addressing this crisis requires setting aside artificial differences and working together in unity.

“The instrumentality of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the frameworks of various UN conventions have established a common ground for countries to cooperate and coordinate efforts to effectively combat this mutual challenge,”

Marwa said that Nigeria had collaborated with bodies like United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA); International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL) of the US, United Kingdom Border Force; National Crime Agency (NCA) of the UK.

“Others are the French Police; the German Police, while the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has remained one of Nigeria’s key allies.

“Our cooperation has been long standing, with mutual support predating the formal signing of this Memorandum of Understanding. In fact, our working relationship extends back nearly two decades.”

Marwa commended the Saudi authorities for previous support to NDLEA, while highlighting other areas the agency would require the assistance of Saudi government.

In his remark, Director General of Saudi Arabia’s Directorate of GDNC, Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni, expressed delight that the MoU was signed after over three years of initial discussions and preparations.

He, however, commended Marwa and his team for their resilience, sincerity and commitment to the global effort to tame the scourge of illicit drug trafficking.

He assured of the commitment of the Saudi authorities to the letters of the MoU, while promising more support to NDLEA in the months ahead.

Highlights of the MoU include: exchange of intelligence between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, the Saudi will avail NDLEA its training Academy for joint training, provision of operational logistics to NDLEA, conduct of joint investigations and exchange of data on convicts.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

FRSC Corps Marshal bemoans death of rescue operative, 16 others
Defence/Security

FRSC Corps Marshal bemoans death of rescue operative, 16 others

Death
By Ibironke Ariyo

The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has bemoaned the tragic death of 17 persons in a road crash, including one of its emergency rescue operatives.

Mohammed expressed his condolences in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Corps Public Education Officer, Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide.

The FRSC boss, however, added that the personnel who lost his life was deployed to carry out rescue operation at the scene of the crash.

He also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and urged motorists to make vehicle maintenance a priority and adhere to speed limits.

This, he said, would also help to prevent reoccurrence of such tragedies in the future.

Mohammed recalled that the fatal multiple crash occurred as a result of excessive speed and break failure at exactly 1600hrs in Gbara area of Ogun State.

He said that the crash involved 7 vehicles in the category of a white DAF truck with registration number T14007LA, Toyota Hiace Bus with registration number AGL752YC.

A Honda saloon car bearing the registration number HET680, and a Nissan Pick up Van with registration number STF10204, were also involved in the accident.

“Others are; a Nissan Pick up Van with the following registration details STF10204 belonging to Nigeria Police Force,.

” 2 Bajaj motorcycles with the registration numbers AGG448Q and PKA214WS, as well as a white DAF truck with no evidence of registration.

“The multiple crash also involved 18 victims (12 male adults, 5 female adults and 1 female child).

“Out of the number, 17 victims were killed comprising of ( 11 male adults, 5 female adults,1 female child). Only 1 victim was rescued with injury,”he said.

The FRSC corps marshal emphasised that the Corps was committed to ensuring the safety of all road users.

Mohammed, however, said that the alarming rate of speed-related crashes on the roads was a pressing concern.

He urged all motorists to take responsibility for their actions and respect speed limits.

He lamented that the consequences of speeding were devastating, and FRSC could not afford to lose more lives on Nigerian roads.

While bemoaning the death of the marshal who was killed in active service along 16 other innocent Nigerians, the corps marshal vowed that the driver responsible for the carnage would definitely be prosecuted.

“There is ongoing efforts of the Corps to ensure that all drivers involved in fatal crash face the wrath of the law.

“FRSC will continue to work tirelessly to promote road safety awareness and enforce traffic laws and the Corps will not relent in its efforts to make our roads safer for all users.

“We appeal to all stakeholders, including motorists, pedestrians and the general public to join FRSC in the crusade against speed limit violations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Stanley Nwanosike/Kevin Okunzuwa

Police to probe Lagos explosion incident
Defence/Security

Police to probe Lagos explosion incident

Explosion

By Deborah Akpede

The Police Command in Lagos State says it has begun an investigation into the explosion that claimed the life of a scrap metal dealer in the Mushin area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin made this known in a statement on Sunday, in Lagos.

He said that the incident occurred on Thursday at No 40, Taiwo Street, Idi-Araba in Mushin.

“The unfortunate explosion that occurred sadly claimed the life of one individual and left three others injured.

“The injured victims have been taken to the hospital and are currently receiving treatment.

“Investigations revealed that the explosion occurred when the victim attempted to cut a metal object into smaller pieces which might be unknown to him, was a military-grade grenade, resulting in an explosion that led to his death,” he said.

Hundeyin said that upon receiving the report, police explosives ordnance experts of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit of the command arrived at the scene

The image maker said that the remnant of one exploded grenade, and two live (active) grenades were professionally and technically evacuated from the scene to the Base Headquarters of Police EOD-CBRN, Lagos, for safety.

He said that the area was immediately cordoned off, secured, and subsequently rendered safe by the Nigeria Police Force’s EOD-CBRN unit.

“The cordon of the scene and the adjoining areas is emplaced to facilitate a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion and take immediate further necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” he said.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has commiserated with the family of the deceased and wished the injured, a speedy recovery.

The spokesperson said that CP Jimoh urged residents to remain calm, peaceful, and go about their businesses and other means of livelihood without fear or apprehension.

“The CP urges residents to be peaceful and assures them of their safety as the scene of the explosion and adjoining areas have been rendered safe and declared secure,” Hundeyin said.

He said the command’s EOD-CBRN unit had been working in collaboration with the Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) Squadron of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, to determine the origin of the explosive device.

The commissioner ensured that all necessary actions were taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents in the future.

He advised members of the public to exercise serious caution, especially those involved in scavenging, scrap metal trading, and to report any suspicious objects at the nearest police station for appropriate action. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Maureen Atuonwu

50th Anniversary: CDS hails retired officers, seeks continuous support
Defence/Security

50th Anniversary: CDS hails retired officers, seeks continuous support

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has commended members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NSA) 17th Regular and Short Service 9 Courses for their contributions to national development.

He gave the commendation during the Golden Jubilee Anniversary Dinner of the Alumni of the courses in Abuja.

He said retired senior officers had diligently served the nation, saying the 50 years anniversary was not just a commemoration of years gone by, but a celebration of the journey, sacrifices, and outstanding contributions of the gallant officers.

According to him, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the indelible impact made by the two distinguished courses on the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation as a whole.

He added that “50 years ago, young men with a common vision and unwavering commitment to duty took an oath to serve their nation with courage, discipline, and professionalism.

“Today, we gather to honour their resilience, patriotism, dedication to serve our nation.

“Members of the 17th regular course and 9-Shot Service Combatant Course did not just serve, but also shaped the course of our armed forces, leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian security architecture.

“Among you are those who rose to the highest echelons of military leadership, service and service skills, as well as other strategic positions.

“Some of you also ventured into public service, politics, business, and other sectors, making meaningful contributions to national development.

“This is a testament to the discipline and excellence instilled in you by the Nigerian Defence Academy.”

The CDS said retired officers were engaged in various military engagements, peacekeeping missions and national security operations that demanded sacrifice.

He said that “some paid the ultimate price, and today we honour their memory with deep reverence, as their bravery and sacrifice shall never be forgotten.”

He added that many of them played pivotal roles in ensuring Nigeria’s territorial integrity, fighting insurgencies and maintaining peace both within and outside the nation’s borders.

“Your leadership, both in uniform or in civil capacities, contributed immensely to the progress of our great nation.

“Today as we celebrate your achievements, we must also acknowledge the responsibilities that come with such esteemed legacy.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces continue to evolve, adapting contemporary security challenges. The foundation you laid serves as guiding light for us who now bear the torch of national defence.

“As we reflect on the past, it is equally important to look toward the future. The Nigerian military is in a dynamic era, confronting asymmetric threats, terrorism, cyber warfare and other evolving security challenges.

“The wisdom and experiences of veterans like you remain invaluable in shaping the strategies that will keep our nation strong.”

He, therefore, encouraged them to continue mentoring and contributing to national discourse on security and defence.

Musa said that the current security challenges in the country was man-made and as such, required concerted efforts of all men to address it.

He reiterated the commitment of the military to put in every effort to ensure that they achieved the mandate of President Bola Tinubu to restore peace and tranquillity to Nigeria.

The Chairman, North-East Development Commission (NEDC), Retired Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa, described the 17RC as one of the best courses of the NDA, being a one-time commandant of the academy.

Tarfa, who was the special guest of honour, congratulated those honoured, commended them “for the journey so far and the successful career in the military.”

The President of the Course, Retired Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Atofarati, said members of the course had successful career in the military and contributed immensely to the development of the Nigerian Armed Forces and nation in general.

Atofarati said the course produced a Chief of Defence Staff in the person of Adm. Ola-Saad Ibrahim and a Chief of Army Staff, in the person of Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahaman Dambazau, while some of them became senators and ambassadors.

He said the association was formed to cater to the welfare of members who are now senior citizens.

He said that the 17 RC and SSC Course 9 trained together, including cadets, adding that 49 out of the 129 had died, appreciating God for sparing their lives to celebrate the golden jubilee. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

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