NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
NSCDC intercepts stolen railway slippers in Bauchi
Defence/Security

NSCDC intercepts stolen railway slippers in Bauchi

172 total views today

Railway

By Chiazo Ogbolu

The Mining Team of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) intercepted a trailer loaded with railway slippers on 20 June at Missu axis, Bauchi State.

The slippers were hidden beneath sacks of sawdust, raising suspicion of deliberate concealment and intent to vandalise public infrastructure.

Dr Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

The statement was issued by Mr Yakub Mahmood, Deputy Director, Public Relations, at the NRC.

Opeifa confirmed that three suspects were arrested and that the vehicle and stolen items are now in NSCDC custody for further investigation.

“This is the biggest heist in recent times. The NRC Police Command confronted economic saboteurs targeting railway assets nationwide,” he said.

He added that the Nigerian Railway Police and NSCDC have made several arrests, with materials recovered across Bauchi, Kano, Kwara and Gombe states.

Opeifa reiterated the corporation’s firm stance against vandalism of railway infrastructure.

“This arrest reflects our zero tolerance for railway vandalism,” he said. “We will pursue every culprit threatening the future of rail transport in Nigeria.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor / Kamal Tayo Oropo

Hunger, poverty fuelling national security threats – CDS
Defence/Security

Hunger, poverty fuelling national security threats – CDS

191 total views today

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says hunger and poverty are no longer mere social challenges but have become national security threats.

Musa stated this at the opening of the 14th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), on Monday in Abuja.

The seminar with the theme: “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” was organised in collaboration with Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and National Defence College (NDC).

The CDS, represented by the Chief of Defence Training, Rear Adm, Ibrahim Shetimma, called for a unified national approach to combating hunger and poverty, stressing their growing impact on Nigeria’s internal security.

He commended the organisers for creating a strategic platform for critical dialogue on Nigeria’s security and developmental challenges.

“Insecurity today is not only defined by weapons but also by economic deprivation, food insecurity, and social dislocation.

“Hunger and poverty are no longer mere social challenges – they have become national security threats.

“The North Central region, particularly Benue once considered Nigeria’s food basket, is a clear example of how banditry, displacement, and farmer-herder conflicts have devastated agricultural productivity,’’ he said.

Musa noted that the disruption of farming communities and illegal occupation of farmlands contributed to food inflation, displacement, and mass migration, thereby destabilising both the economy and national cohesion.

He called on communities to deny criminals and terrorists sanctuary by supporting intelligence gathering, timely reporting and community vigilance.

The CDS called for urgent investment in grassroots agricultural development, and urged government and stakeholders to reposition farming as a noble and rewarding profession by enhancing access to credit, infrastructure, and market linkages.

“With the migration of rural youth to urban centres, agricultural productivity is declining.

“We must make farming attractive again—not as a last resort, but as a national duty and a prestigious calling,’’ he added.

Musa also praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its emphasis on financial autonomy for local governments, which he described as vital for responsive and community-driven development.

“I assure you, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies and with the support of the people, remain resolute in overcoming all security threats.

“We must build a Nigeria where every citizen can live in peace, engage in productive livelihood, and enjoy the dividends of democracy,” he said.

In his remarks, President of AANDEC, Retired Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi, underscored the need for sustained investment in education, economic empowerment and social inclusion as critical non-kinetic responses to Nigeria’s deepening insecurity.

Abdullahi said that hunger and poverty were not just humanitarian crises but strategic threats to national stability.

He quoted the timeless wisdom that says “the children of the poor you fail to train will never let your children have peace,” stressing that neglecting the socio-economic wellbeing of the population creates fertile ground for instability and extremism.

“When millions suffer from hunger and poverty, they become vulnerable to exploitation by those with ill intentions.

“We must therefore invest in our people— especially in education, livelihoods, and skills development.

“Economic initiatives that foster inclusion and bring communities together can be effective tools for peacebuilding. They create an atmosphere of stability and discourage violence,” he said.

The AANDEC president praised the members of the association – retired military officers and senior public servants as patriots committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace and unity beyond the battlefield.

He advocated for the creation of a dedicated vocational and leadership development centre for widows and children of fallen heroes, describing it as a necessary step in empowering vulnerable populations and promoting national healing. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor / Isaac Ukpoju

Defence Minister advocates human-centred security approach, enhanced food security
Defence/Security

Defence Minister advocates human-centred security approach, enhanced food security

178 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, has advocated human-centred security approaches by addressing the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion.

Badaru made the call at the opening of the 14th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), on Monday in Abuja.

The seminar with the theme, “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” was organised in collaboration with Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and National Defence College (NDC).

The minister pointed out that in a world where security challenges know no borders, there was a need for collective action in addressing the nation’s security concerns.

He called for a “whole-of-society” approach to tackle pressing issues like hunger, poverty, and violence.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Nigerians and praised the Armed Forces and security agencies for their bravery and innovation in responding to security threats.

According to him, the seminar served as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable solutions, foster dialogue, and promote inclusive approaches to national security.

The minister expressed his confidence in the collective efforts of Nigerians to build a secure and prosperous future where peace and stability reign supreme.

“May our collective efforts continue to strengthen our path towards unity, resilience, and sustainable national security,” he said.

In his remarks, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, said that national security was a collective responsibility, adding that it demands a multidimensional and collaborative approach.

Ribadu, represented by the Director, Defence Affairs at ONSA, Maj.-Gen. Peter Mala, said the year’s theme touched at the very heart of the national challenges.

According to him, hunger and poverty are not merely social concerns; they are catalysts for insecurity, crime, violence, and social disintegration.

“These issues form a vicious cycle — poverty leads to insecurity, and insecurity, in turn, deepens poverty.

“The Federal Government under President Tinubu has prioritised agricultural reforms, social investment programmes, and security sector interventions aimed at breaking this cycle.

“These efforts are visible through increased support for food security initiatives, enhanced law enforcement capacity, and infrastructure to support agricultural production and distribution,’’ he said.

Ribadu said his office had continued to coordinate both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts across the armed forces, intelligence services, security agencies, and relevant government and non-governmental actors.

According to him, in spite of the progress made, issues like unemployment, hunger, and youth disenfranchisement remain persistent and require deeper and long-term solutions.

He said the forum presents an excellent platform for collective introspection and the sharing of ideas towards tackling the dynamic and multifaceted challenges confronting the nation.

NSA commended the alumni association for their commitment to national development and bringing together thought leaders, security experts, policymakers, and citizens to chart a path forward. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Army seeks stronger collaboration with NAN
Defence/Security

Army seeks stronger collaboration with NAN

133 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, has called for stronger collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

She said such a partnership was vital to keeping Nigerians informed about the Army’s operational activities.

Anele made the call when she led her team on a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali on Monday in Abuja.

She noted that the visit aimed to deepen the existing relationship between both organisations and commended NAN for its role in consistently projecting the Nigerian Army in a positive light.

“Let me first and foremost commend you for your good reportage of our activities.

“I’m here this afternoon to explore ways we can collaborate further, and to request increased coverage of our activities.

“I know your reach is extensive, whatever you publish gets amplified not just across the country, but around the world as well,” she said.

In his response, Ali congratulated Anele on her well-deserved appointment as acting director of army public relations, describing her as “the best man for the job.”

He assured her of NAN’s full support, noting that the agency and the Nigerian Army had enjoyed a long-standing, cordial, and robust relationship.

“We are taking it to the next level, the army chief couldn’t have picked a better person.

“We are happy that the Nigerian Army has really seen the importance of having a female to be the face of it.

“And then given the natural gender disposition of the female gender, I know the Nigerian Army has a very good deal,” he said.

Ali noted that NAN was the only news agency on the African continent which maintains an office at the United Nations, as well as in key strategic locations across Africa.

He added that efforts were on to reopen some of the foreign offices, especially in London and also to expand its operations to the BRICS nations.

“And because of our reach and our network, we are in every district of the federation and in every state of the federation.

“We also have 12 zonal offices, and a very functional, but inclusive, and increasingly attractive YouTube channel,” Ali said.

According to him, NAN Multimedia continues to add value to the agency’s work.

“We can proudly say that even some of our sister organisations sometimes come to us for content.

“We supply news to others, and we have a lot of MoUs and working relationships with global media,” he said.

According to him, the agency maintains numerous news exchange partnerships with international media organisations such as Reuters, Xinhua (the Chinese news agency), TASS (the Russian news agency), Sputnik, and several others.

“With this reach, that’s why we proudly say, ‘when you talk to NAN, you are talking to all.”

“We pride ourselves on the fact that no one knows Nigeria better,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Kevin Okunzuwa

Board opens portal for paramilitary recruitment
Defence/Security

Board opens portal for paramilitary recruitment

1,137 total views today

By Kelechi Ogunleye

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Board (CDCFIB) has called on qualified candidates to apply for full-time employment into the various paramilitary agencies from Thursday.

This is contained in a statement by the Secretary to the board, retired Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jubril, on Monday in Abuja.

He urged applicants interested in being employed into the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Fire Service to apply online through the board’s portal: https://recruitment.cdcfib.org.

“Applications should be submitted online within three weeks from the date of this  publication and note that the application is absolutely free,” he said.

He emphasised that applicants must apply to only one of the four agencies of their choice as multiple applications will automatically call for disqualification.

He added that vacancies were available for the positions of Superintendent, Inspectorate and Assistant cadres.

“For Superintendent of Corrections (CONMESS 09), which is applicable to only NCoS, applicants must be holders of a Bachelor’s Degree (BSc) in medicine and surgery.

“For Assistant Superintendent I (CONPASS 09), applicable to FFS only, applicants must be holders of  Degree in Law or a BSc in any of the following: Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Water or any related field.

“For Assistant Superintendent II (CONPASS 8), applicable to NSCDC, FFS and NIS, applicants must possess a BSc or Higher National Diploma,” Jubril said.

The Secretary further stated that for the position of Inspector (CONHESS 06), applicants must be registered nurses or midwives, adding that the position was only available for NCoS, NSCDC and FFS.

“For Assistant Inspector (CONPASS 06), applicants must be holders of National Diploma or NCE in any related field.

“For Assistant II (CONPASS 04), General duty, applicants must be holders of GVE, Ordinary level, SSCE/NECO or other equivalent with a minimum of five credits in not more than two sittings.

“For Assistant III (general duty), applicants must be holders of GCE, O level, SSCE/NECO or other equivalent with a minimum of four credits in not more than two sittings,” he said.

Jubril further stated that the mandatory requirements for the recruitment exercise are Nigerian nationality, requisite qualifications, and medical fitness.

Others, he said, are free of conviction or financial fraud records, between ages 18 and 35 among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Ismail Abdulaziz

World Drug Day: NDLEA seeks faith-based support in drug abuse fight
Defence/Security

World Drug Day: NDLEA seeks faith-based support in drug abuse fight

317 total views today

By Ibironke Ariyo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on faith-based organisations, families and corporate bodies to intensify their support for the prevention of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.

The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, made the call on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Wuye, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the service was held as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The theme for the year 2025 World Drug Day is “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”

Marwa, who was represented by the Secretary of the NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna, acknowledged the sacrifice by personnel and thanked God for the lives of the agency’s officers.

“We thank God for preserving our lives and for the relentless efforts of our officers who work daily to rid the streets of harmful substances.

“Unfortunately, we have lost some officers in the process, but we continue to push forward,” he said.

Marwa, however, emphasised the critical role of parents in drug abuse prevention, urging them to instil sound moral values in their children and support them in making the right choices.

“Prevention starts at home. Parents are the first line of defence. If values are instilled early, we can reduce drug use among young people,” he said.

The NDLEA Chairman also urged individuals already struggling with drug addiction to seek help through the NDLEA’s anonymous support line: 080 1020 3040.

He assured that the line was available 24/7 for counselling and rehabilitation, not to arrest.

He also commended the faith-based groups for their role in the agency’s drug demand reduction strategy.

“For effective drug demand reduction, we need faith-based groups, families, and organisations. MFM has shown that churches can amplify this message through their platforms and communities,” he added.

Marwa noted that similar prayers and engagements were held in mosques earlier in the week as part of the agency’s inclusive and strategic outreach.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to reducing drug use in the country, stressing that collective action, moral responsibility, and spiritual support were essential in combating the scourge.

“Every family has either been directly or indirectly affected by drug abuse. That’s why we must all rise, invest in prevention, and work together to save our youths and communities,” he stated.

Speaking, Pastor Edwin Etomi, the Senior Regional Overseer of MFM, called on faith-based organisations, families, and all sectors of society to actively support the NDLEA in tackling substance abuse in Nigeria.

Etomi stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to curb drug-related challenges.

He urged other places of worship to emulate MFM’s example by engaging in efforts that empower youths and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“This is a way of repositioning our youth for better exports and usefulness in society.

“Drug abuse is a menace, and it will take every hand that is the parents, churches, private and public sectors to reduce its impact,” he said.

Addressing the issue of stigma, Etomi cautioned against condemning victims of drug addiction, encouraging families and institutions to offer support and inclusion.

Etomi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying the country has immense potential that could be unlocked through collective responsibility and strategic collaboration with institutions like NDLEA.

“This is not the time to stigmatise anybody. This is a time to help. NDLEA cannot do it alone.

“We believe in this country and in what God can still do through us and through structured organisations like the NDLEA,” he added.

NAN reports that the service, attended by NDLEA officers and church members, featured prayers for divine protection of operatives on the frontline and the success of the agency’s ongoing nationwide efforts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Naval chief tasks personnel on professionalism, protection of democracy
Defence/Security

Naval chief tasks personnel on professionalism, protection of democracy

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, has charged personnel of the Nigerian Navy to remain professional in the discharge of their duties and remain committed to protecting the nation’s democracy.

Ogalla, represented by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Admiralty Integrated Farms Limited, Rear Adm. Julius Nwagu, gave the charge at the 2025 Second Quarter Route March, on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the route march was organised as a show of force to prepare personnel to be mentally and physically fit.

According to him, it is aimed at developing personnel physical and mental alertness to meet the dynamics of contemporary security operations as well as fostering esprit de corps and providing an avenue for relaxation.

“I enjoin you to be more professional in the conduct of your duties and day activities.

“Furthermore, I encourage you not to engage in any act of misdemeanor or take laws into your hands that could bring the service into disrepute in the course of your duty.

“Furthermore, I charge you all to show dedication to duty and unflinching support to our democracy and constituted authority,” he said.

Ogalla pledged his commitment to continue to support the personnel by providing all the required needs to function optimally in the area of their responsibilities.

According to him, it is worthy of mention that the Nigeria Navy is primarily responsible for the protection of the nation’s maritime domain.

He said the Nigerian Navy was also a major contributor to the Gulf of Guinea maritime security arrangement, as well as a major participant in internal security duties all over the country.

This, he said, made it imperative for them to be mentally and physically fit at all times.

“Thus, the exercise and physical training remains the bedrock of naval personnel’s daily mental and physical readiness for sea show and ashore duties.

“It is pertinent to state that the commitment of the Nigeria Navy towards enhancing mental and physical fitness has yielded dividends.

“This has been witnessed with the sterling contributions of the Nigerian Navy schedule to national security, peace and prosperity.

“It is in recognition of this fact and desire of the service to keep the personnel physically fit that the route march amongst other physical fitness exercises are sustained in the navy schedule of events.

“As you are aware, the Nigerian navy has just concluded Operation Obangame Express.

“The exercise was aimed at partnering with regional and global maritime stakeholders on the security of maritime domain awareness of littoral states within the Africa continent,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

Navy to adopt AI to strengthen training, internal security operations
Defence/Security

Navy to adopt AI to strengthen training, internal security operations

210 total views today

By Desmond Ejibas

The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to bolster training and its internal security operations across the country.

Rear Adm. Istifanus Albara, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), made this known on Saturday during a farewell parade at the NAVTRAC Headquarters in Ebubu-Eleme, Rivers, to mark his redeployment.

Albara stated that the Navy has plans to integrate AI to improve maritime security, enhance training, simulation capabilities, and support Nigeria’s broader economic and national security objectives.

According to him, the adoption of AI is central to strengthening the professional training and retraining of both officers and ratings of the Navy.

“These days, technology drives everything, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, which is set to shape the future of security operations.

“The Nigerian Navy is working towards incorporating AI technology into our training programmes to prepare our personnel for future warfare and internal security operations,” he stated.

The outgoing FOC further noted that the Navy was reviewing its training curriculum and capacity-building strategies in the management of personnel.

He commended the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, for prioritising infrastructure, training, and other reforms within the service.

Reflecting on his 16-month tenure, Albara expressed gratitude to God, the CNS, and members of the command for their support.

“My tenure has been highly eventful, and I deeply appreciate the opportunities and challenges that have helped shape my command,” he said.

He highlighted several achievements during his tenure such as the accreditation and curriculum upgrade of Navy professional institutions and the relocation of the NAVTRAC headquarters from Apapa, Lagos, to Ebubu-Eleme.

According to him, the command focused on improving professionalism through realistic training, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships.

“Efforts were also made to enhance e-learning platforms, restore simulation tools such as the ECDIS at NNS Quorra, and initiate accreditation with relevant national bodies, including NIMASA,” he stated.

Albara added that new training sites were acquired in Makurdi in Benue, and Ota in Ogun, with support from respective state governments and traditional institutions.

He urged the command to sustain the current momentum and ensure the completion of ongoing projects.

The News of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event concluded with a formal handover to Rear Adm. Robert Obeya, Albara’s successor.

Highlights included ceremonial parades featuring slow and quick march-pasts and other naval manoeuvres. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

13 Brigade wins 2025 army officers competition
Defence/Security

13 Brigade wins 2025 army officers competition

436 total views today
By Christian Njoku
13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has emerged victorious in the 82 Division Inter-Brigade Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) Competition 2025, held at Akim Barracks, Calabar.

The week-long event, featuring rigorous physical and tactical drills, concluded on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony attended by senior military officers, families, and invited guests.

The competition, designed to test fitness, weapon handling, endurance, and teamwork among five formations, saw 82 Division Garrison finish second, while 34 Artillery Brigade secured third place.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participating formations competed in drill exercises, combat swimming, obstacle crossing, a five-kilometre run, and other demanding activities.

In his closing remarks, Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Olatoye, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, commended the participants for their doggedness, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Represented by Brig.-Gen. Emmanuel Azenda, Commandant of the Amphibious Training School, Olatoye stated that the competition aimed to foster competitiveness, teamwork, discipline, and professionalism among the senior NCOs.

“I am proud to say that the past few days have not only achieved these objectives but have also strengthened the bond among our troops,” he said.

“For the winning formation, I offer my hearty congratulations. To those who did not come first, I advise you to go back to the drawing board and prepare adequately for the next challenge,” he added.

Addressing the prevailing security challenges in the nation, the GOC warned officers against complacency.

“With ongoing issues such as kidnapping and youth restiveness, our duties demand utmost diligence.

“We must remain vigilant and uphold the highest standards of professionalism,” he said.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Lt. Col. Ibrahim Jibo, expressed gratitude to all participants, officials, and families for their support.

He noted that the event promoted team spirit and camaraderie among the senior NCOs in the participating formations, describing it as laudable.

NAN also reported that the week-long event, which included participation from 14 and 44 Engineer Brigades, ended with the GOC officially declaring the competition closed, reiterating the Chief of Army Staff’s transformation agenda aimed at fostering a combat-ready force. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot wins top awards in Ghana
Aviation , Defence/Security

Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot wins top awards in Ghana

236 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Flt.-Lt. Kafayat Sanni, Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot, has once again made history at the prestigious Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Accra.

Sanni emerged as the Best Allied Student and winning the Best Assistant Commandant Paper award at GAFCSC.

The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known on Saturday in Abuja.

Ejodame said the awards were presented on Friday, during the College graduation ceremony, attended by top military officials and dignitaries from across Africa.

He said that Sanni’s impressive records first made headlines in 2019 when she was decorated as the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) first female fighter pilot after completing her pilot training in the U.S.

“Since then, she has flown the Alpha Jet as well as undertaken training sorties on the Super Mushshak as a prolific instructor pilot, producing and mentoring younger pilots for the NAF.

“Her outstanding performance at GAFCSC not only symbolises personal excellence and resilience but also underscores Nigeria’s growing leadership in regional defence and commitment to gender inclusion in the armed forces.

“This remarkable achievement further reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s strategic investment in human capital development under the visionary leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

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