News Agency of Nigeria
DHQ dismisses reports of Niger’s MNJTF withdrawal
Defence/Security

DHQ dismisses reports of Niger’s MNJTF withdrawal

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports of Niger Republic’s withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), stating that such a move would have serious security implications.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, addressed the media on Thursday in Abuja, emphasising the critical role of the MNJTF in regional security.

He stressed that efforts must be made to prevent any member state from leaving.

“I believe this issue has been a topic of discussion over the past few months, particularly after some ECOWAS members decided to form an alliance.

“However, the Multinational Joint Task Force was established by the Lake Chad Commission countries to address shared security concerns.

“Nigeria has made significant efforts to ensure the sustainability of this task force.

“However, if any member decides to withdraw, the implications will be significant. The synergy we rely on may no longer exist.

“It is not in our interest for any country to leave because their challenges also affect us. A withdrawal creates a gap and weakens the strength of the contingent from that country.

“Therefore, efforts must be made to prevent such a situation. We will continue to monitor the situation and, as always, provide further updates when necessary,” he said.

He also responded to concerns about the military’s operations, dismissing claims that efforts against terrorists, cattle rustlers, and herders had been scaled back.

He reaffirmed that operations remained ongoing and that high-value targets, such as notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, were still being pursued.

Addressing concerns about the welfare of troops, Kangye assured the public that soldiers wounded in action were well taken care of.

“The military has provided housing for those who cannot return to active service, and senior officers frequently visit wounded troops both on the frontlines and in hospitals.

“Some soldiers requiring advanced treatment have been flown to countries like Egypt, Turkey, and India,”he said.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigerian military, Briech unveil 1st indigenous attack drones, bombs
Defence/Security

Nigerian military, Briech unveil 1st indigenous attack drones, bombs

Nigerian military, Briech unveil 1st indigenous attack drones, bomb

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Jessica Dogo

 

 

 

The Nigerian Military, in collaboration with Briech UAS, a communications company, has unveiled the first and largest indigenous attack drones and bombs in Nigeria and Africa.

 

Briech UAS, in partnership with the Nigerian Army, demonstrated and unveiled these attack drones and bombs at the company’s headquarters on Wednesday in Abuja.

 

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the initiative as a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward self-reliance in defence technology and a significant step in strengthening national security capabilities.

 

Musa emphasised that the development of combat drones was a timely intervention, highlighting their efficiency in intelligence gathering.

 

He said that these drones would facilitate decisive actions against threats in an era where security challenges were increasingly complex and asymmetric.

 

“These force multipliers will play a vital role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of our military.

 

“Particularly in a world where global politics surrounding the procurement of advanced military hardware have become more intricate.

 

“Countries that do not produce such solutions face bureaucratic bottlenecks and diplomatic hurdles when acquiring these critical platforms. We are facing such challenges directly.

 

“If you don’t produce what you need, you will be at the mercy of others, even when you have the financial resources to acquire them.

 

“By manufacturing these drones locally, Nigeria reduces its dependence on foreign resources, ensures prompt acquisition, and strengthens its ability to respond swiftly to security threats.

 

“With the brilliant minds we have, particularly among our youth, we can create outstanding technology that competes globally,” he said.

 

The Governor of Plateau, Caleb Mutfwang, stressed that Nigeria’s growth depended on recognising and patronising indigenous products.

 

Mutfwang stated that the drones would play a critical role in protecting national sovereignty both in Plateau and across the nation.

 

He revealed that some of these locally made technologies had already been deployed to Plateau, significantly improving the efficiency of ground forces.

 

He also noted that his state was partnering with local bomb and drone manufacturers like Briech UAS to counter insurgency using domestically produced weapons.

 

“As a nation, we made a mistake by allowing non-state actors to acquire capabilities that nearly rival those of state actors.

 

“We have entered into a partnership that has enabled the deployment of these facilities in our state.

 

“We have witnessed significant improvements in the efficiency of our security forces.

 

“Indeed, it was an error to allow non-state actors to amass capabilities that almost overpower those of legitimate state forces.

 

“It is time to rectify that imbalance.

 

“We must ensure that no one within our borders possesses capabilities that match or exceed those entrusted with the constitutional duty of protecting our national sovereignty,” he said.

 

Earlier, the Chairman of Briech UAS, Dr Bright Echefu, noted that insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP had recently adopted commercial drones for reconnaissance and attack missions.

 

“These drones have been used to track and attack our troops. They are being deployed to coordinate ambushes and execute crude aerial strikes,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

 Ex-Police officer allegedly kills 2 family members over land dispute in Badagry
Defence/Security

 Ex-Police officer allegedly kills 2 family members over land dispute in Badagry

Death

By Raji Rasak

The Yovoyan community in Badagry, Lagos, was thrown into mourning on Tuesday morning when an ex-police officer, allegedly shot and killed two family members and one other person over a land dispute.

A Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) learnt that Mr Richard Atideka, Mrs Latevi Atideka, both from Yovoyan community,  and Mr Muji Onilude from the neighboring Gberefu community, were killed by the ex-police officer and his accomplice.

A survivour of the attack, Mr David Atideka, recounted the harrowing experience, stating that the incident occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. in the Atideka compound.

“I was inside my room discussing with my wife when I stepped out to urinate. As I did, I saw two armed men entering the compound. I quickly hid nearby.

“They entered my room, asked for me, and immediately shot my wife in the head. Out of fear, I ran to inform my elder brother, but when I arrived, I found his lifeless body—he had been shot too,” David narrated.

He further alleged that he saw his elder brother, the suspect, the ex-police officer, along with another armed person, leaving the compound after killing his wife and brother.

“The person I saw was my brother, the police officer. I recognised him clearly,” he said.

NAN learnt that the alleged suspected killer had been in a long-standing dispute with his brothers over land ownership.

A reliable source disclosed that the suspect had been attempting to seize land from David and Richard Atideka.

“They had taken the matter to court, where the suspect was arrested and detained but later released on bail. They were due for a final court judgment this Thursday,” the source revealed.

Meanwhile, Mr Yusuf Onilude, the son of slain Muji Onilude, said his father had just left his room moments before he was murdered.

“My father came to my room at about 2:10 a.m. We spoke for a few minutes before he left.

“Less than five minutes later, I heard gunshots outside. I rushed out and saw a man running away. I chased him, but he fired shots in the air and escaped.

“When I returned, I found my father in a pool of blood. He had been shot dead,” he said.

Reacting to the incident, community representative Mr James Yovoyan urged the police to ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice.

Chief Lorence Atideka, the family head, lamented the tragedy, calling on the government to arrest and prosecute everyone involved.

However, Henry Atideka, the son of the alleged killer, denied the accusations, claiming that unknown gunmen carried out the attack.

“My father was not around when the incident happened, and he has been invited by the police.

“Although the family had some disagreements, it was not about land but a conspiracy, which we planned to resolve this Thursday,” he said.

Henry expressed optimism that the police would uncover the truth and punish the culprits.

However, a senior police officer who wished to remain anonymous confirmed that the police had taken the corpses to the General Hospital in Badagry and had launched an investigation into the killings.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

No community invaded, under siege in Enugu—Police
Defence/Security

No community invaded, under siege in Enugu—Police

Community

By Stanley Nwanosike

The Police Command in Enugu State says no part of the state or community including Eha-Amufu has been invaded, under siege or its residents displaced recently.

The Spokesman of the Command, SP. Daniel Ndukwe, on Wednesday in a statement in Enugu, said that the Command was aware of a spurious online report alleging that herdsmen had taken over homes and schools in Eha-Amufu community.

Ndukwe said that after a diligent review, the Command declared the report as “baseless, mischievous, and a calculated attempt to mislead the public and instill fear.”

According to him, the farm settlements allegedly overrun by herdsmen are temporary dwellings used by farmers who periodically return to their permanent residences in their villages.

Ndukwe noted that available records indicated that farmers were temporarily displaced from these farm settlements during farmer-herder clashes sometimes in 2021 and 2022.

He said that peace and order had since been restored to Eha-Amufu through joint security operations contrary to the misleading report.

“The Police Command particularly acknowledges the intentional and intensive interventions of the Government of Enugu State to enhance security, especially in Eha-Amufu community and its adjoining communities under the leadership of Gov. Peter Mbah.

“These efforts include deploying 150 military personnel and well-equipped Special Forces, establishing security agency barracks, and constructing the nearly completed 21.7km Agape-Agu-Mgbuji-Ogbete access road leading to some farm settlements in the community.

“Regrettably, the medium that published the report ignored these facts and timelines, using unrelated pictures to support its sensational claims.

“After diligent forensic and digital fact-checking, it was discovered that the images were taken from old reports on incidents in neighboring states and other locations, then mischievously repurposed to mislead the public,” he said.

According to him, pictures of burnt houses posted by Amnesty International in condemnation of the Feb. 4, attack on the Nkalaeha community in a neighboring state have been falsely misrepresented in the report as a recent occurrence in Eha-Amufu farm settlements.

The spokesman said that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, had urged the public to disregard the unfounded report.

He said that the commissioner reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the police and other security agencies to maintaining law, order, and security across the state.

“The command calls on citizens, particularly those in the allegedly affected communities of Eha-Amufu in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security agencies, and report any genuine security concerns through official channels.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Tinubu extends NIS Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap’s tenure until 2026
Defence/Security

Tinubu extends NIS Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap’s tenure until 2026

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Monday approved the extension of Mrs Kemi Nandap’s tenure as Comptroller-General (C-G) of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) until Dec. 31, 2026.

Nandap, who began her career in the Nigeria Immigration Service on Oct. 9, 1989, was appointed C-G on March 1, 2024, initially to serve until August 31.

Nandap’s tenure extension was announced in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga on Monday in Abuja, commending her achievements.

“Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has achieved significant advancements in its core mandate.

“With notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes, and national security measures.”

President Tinubu commended the C-G for her exemplary leadership and urged her to remain committed to the Service’s strategic priorities, which aligned with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Immigration Service in fulfilling its mandate to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and promote safe, legal, and orderly migration,” the statement added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

CAS commends operatives’ commitment to national security
Defence/Security

CAS commends operatives’ commitment to national security

By Abbas Bamalli

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Bala-Abubakar, has commended the dedication of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to the nation’s security.

Bala-Abubakar made the commendation in Katsina on Monday during the 2025 Sallah luncheon with the personnel of the 213 Forward Operating Base and Air Component, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

He was represented by the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Usman Abdullahi.

He stated, “I wish to commend you, our gallant officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Air Component, for your unwavering commitment, not just to the mission, but to one another and to the security of our great nation.”

Bala-Abubakar assured the personnel that their welfare remained a top priority.

“I am determined to provide you with the necessary equipment, training, and support to achieve greater excellence.”

He further stated that these efforts were essential to contributing to the effective discharge of their duties.

He encouraged the personnel to remain focused, saying, “The Nigerian Air Force remains fully committed to your welfare and operational effectiveness until ultimate victory is achieved.”

While acknowledging the challenges unique to their operational environment, the CAS emphasised that these should not hinder their progress, reiterating the importance of restoring normalcy to the region.

“Let us continue to forge ahead with determination and resilience.

“Every effort we make today strengthens our nation’s security and stability,” he said.

He also took a moment to remember the fallen heroes, expressing gratitude for their sacrifice and praying for the continued repose of their souls.

Bala-Abubakar thanked President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership and support of the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Air Force, and extended his appreciation to Gov. Dikko Radda for his collaboration in enhancing security within the state.

He also commended the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as well as the Nigerian Army, other security agencies, and host communities for their cooperation.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA and Commander of the 213 Forward Operating Base, Garba Jibia, highlighted the significance of the Sallah luncheon.

He said it was organised to boost the morale of frontline troops.

He reported that joint operations from January 2025 had led to the successful elimination of numerous bandits and terrorists, including top commanders, which had significantly reduced their ability to carry out attacks. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Eid: CP urges Muslims to embrace love, kindness in FCT
Defence/Security

Eid: CP urges Muslims to embrace love, kindness in FCT

By Monday Ijeh

The Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Ajao Adewale, has urged Muslim faithful to embrace love, kindness and unity as they mark the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The CP made the call in his Eid-el-Fitr message to residents of the territory.

Adewale, who extended warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings to all Muslim faithful in the FCT, said the call was to foster peaceful and harmonious society.

“As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end, the command celebrates with the Muslim community, recognising the values of faith, devotion and self-discipline that define this sacred period.

“I encourage residents to carry forward the spirit of Ramadan by embracing love, kindness and unity, fostering a peaceful and harmonious society,” he said.

He said Eid-el-Fitr is a time of gratitude, joy and reflection, and therefore, urged residents of the FCT to celebrate with a sense of togetherness, respect and goodwill toward one another.

Adewale prayed that the season would bring happiness, prosperity and abundant blessings to all residents of the FCT.

He enjoined residents to remain security-conscious and report suspicious activities to the nearest Police station or reach out to the command on 08032003913, 08061581938 or 07057337653. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

Eid-el-Fitr: Group hails military on sacrifice, onslaught against terrorists
Defence/Security

Eid-el-Fitr: Group hails military on sacrifice, onslaught against terrorists

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Security, Development and Advancement Initiative (SDAI), a civil society organisation, has saluted troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their sacrifices and sustained onslaught against terrorists across theatres of operation.

The group gave the commendation in a message by its Convener, Mattias Ebong, to the armed forces on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, on Sunday in Abuja.

Ebong likened the fasting period to the sacrifices being made by members of the armed forces to keep the country safe and united.

He said the military, under the command of Gen. Christopher Musa, had been exemplary in terms of making sacrifices for the country.

The group lauded the Chief of Defence Staff for the operational successes that had seen insurgents, terrorists and bandits being depleted by troops.

He said the Ramadan period was that of intercession to usher in peace and stability in security challenged areas in the country, and expressed hope that those places would soon experience a turn around.

“As you celebrate the end of Ramadan and mark the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, the security, development and advancement initiative send our warmest felicitations.

“May this joyous occasion bring you peace, happiness, and spiritual renewal. May the blessings of Allah be upon you and your loved ones.

“As we celebrate, let us remember the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces of Nigeria to keep the country safe and united.

“May we continue to uphold these values in our daily lives and continuously work for our unity,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/ Chioma Ugboma

Army Chief Imam calls for Nigerians’ support and respect for authorities
Defence/Security

Army Chief Imam calls for Nigerians’ support and respect for authorities

By Stanley Nwanosike

The Chief Imam of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Husein Eleje, has called on Nigerians to support and respect constituted authorities to ensure sustainable national progress.

Eleje made this appeal on Sunday at the Abakpa Military Cantonment Eid Prayer Ground in Enugu, where Muslim faithful gathered to observe Eid prayers, marking the end of Ramadan.

According to him, every patriotic Nigerian owes constituted authorities diligence, obedience, and prayers for their success in governance.

“Obedience means actively supporting our leaders, complying with the country’s laws, and playing our roles in national development,” Eleje said.

He explained that governance was structured like a pyramid, where a few leaders at the top depended on the vast majority of citizens to implement policies successfully.

“The President cannot do much without the support and cooperation of Nigerians. Sustainable progress requires collective effort,” he added.

Eleje urged Nigerians to work selflessly for the nation’s prosperity, highlighting that Nigeria was richly blessed with natural and human resources capable of eliminating poverty.

Commending Muslims for their exemplary conduct during Ramadan, he encouraged them to continue living peacefully with their neighbours and practicing charity and kindness.

“We must cultivate the spirit of brotherhood and unity, ensuring that we support one another for a better society,” he said.

During the prayers, Eleje also offered supplications for the protection and success of the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the Army, in their various operations within and outside the country.

He prayed for divine wisdom, protection, and guidance for President Bola Tinubu, and Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa.

Also prayed for were the Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, 82 Division’s General Officer Commanding Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, and other military commanders. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

I-G inaugurates ultra-modern police headquarters in Adamawa
Defence/Security

I-G inaugurates ultra-modern police headquarters in Adamawa

By Talatu Maiwada

The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, inaugurated an ultra-modern police headquarters in Adamawa.

Speaking at the event, Egbetokun said the project was to enhance service delivery, adding that it reflected the government’s commitment to the welfare of police officers.

“We now have a befitting headquarters worthy of our brave and dedicated officers.

“The newly commissioned complex is more than just a physical structure, it represents our commitment to serving and protecting our communities.

“It stands as a symbol of justice, dedication, and our resolve to improve service delivery in the state,” he said.

Egbetokun assured that his administration would continue working to equip officers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and logistics required for effective policing.

He appreciated stakeholders, partners, and community leaders for their support in ensuring the completion of the project.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police(CP), Adamawa Command, Dankombo Morris, lauded the I-G for prioritising the welfare of officers.

He noted that the project would help address the challenge of office accommodation in the command.

“This new police headquarters aligns with your vision for a better Nigeria Police Force, where every state command operates in a conducive environment.

“It will go a long way in boosting the morale of officers and enhancing the quality of service delivery to the community,” he said.

Morris disclosed that the command, which has 6,444 personnel, has been instrumental in ensuring the security and stability of the state.

He highlighted the command’s achievements this year, which he said included the apprehension of about 120 crime suspects and recording of 60 cases.

“The Command recorded about 60 cases, including kidnapping, armed robbery, culpable homicide, farmer-herder clashes, rape, and defilement.

“In addition, we arrested 120 suspects linked to these cases and rescued four kidnapped victims unharmed, with no ransom paid,” he said.

Morris attributed the command’s successes to the tireless efforts of officers, the support from Adamawa Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri, collaboration with sister security agencies, and contributions from stakeholders.

He, however, pointed out some challenges, which he said included addressing kidnapping in border areas due to difficult terrain, inadequate operational vehicles, dilapidated police barracks, and manpower shortages.

The CP appealed to the I-G to address these challenges in order to enhance the operational capabilities of the command.(NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

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