Military - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Philip Daniel Yatai
Mar, Thu, 2025

DICON-D7G: Developing viable military industrial complex in Nigeria

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By Sumaila Ogbaje, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Nigeria’s quest for self-reliance in military hardware and technology recently received a significant boost with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the D7G joint venture.

On Jan.18, 2024, DICON and D7G Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture company codenamed DICON-D7G Nigeria Limited; it is aimed at meeting the defence needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The DICON-D7G joint venture is designed to leverage the strengths of both partners to develop a comprehensive military industrial complex in Nigeria.

DICON, with its extensive experience in military hardware production, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.

On the other hand, D7G, a manufacturing company with its global network and access to cutting-edge technology, provides the necessary support and resources to drive innovation and growth.

The DICON-D7G joint venture has several key objectives–the development of military hardware; designing, developing and producing a range of military hardware, including small arms, ammunition and armored vehicles.

The joint venture seeks to facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise from D7G to DICON, enabling the latter to develop its capacity for military hardware production.

The partnership also aims to build the capacity of DICON and other local industries to produce military hardware and equipment; also, the joint venture is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in Nigeria.

During the inauguration of the board of DICON-D7G Board on March 19, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing Nigeria’s defence industrial base.

Musa said that Nigeria had remained committed to strengthening its defence capabilities to ensure that its gallant men and women in uniform had access to high-quality, locally manufactured military equipment, ammunition and other operational assets.

According to him, the establishment of a strategic partnership between DICON and D7G Nigeria Limited, represents a bold step towards actualising the vision.

He added that the joint venture was for the production of military hardware and equipment for the armed forces, as well as for intelligence, security and paramilitary organisations.

The CDS added that the partnership with D7G would offer a unique opportunity to expand production capacity, leverage advanced technology and foster knowledge transfer that would strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global defence industry.

“The partnership we celebrate today is a testament to our resolve to build a resilient defence manufacturing sector that will meet the immediate and future needs of our military and security institutions,” he said.

On his part, the Director-General of DICON, Maj.-Gen. Aniedi Edet, said the context of the collaboration with D7G was in terms of supply of defence materials and production of local defence items on the basis of 30 per cent to DICON and 70 per cent to D7G.

Edet said that the company was currently engaged in DICON with the first set of defence stock expected to arrive in DICON soon.

According to him, expected stocks include the 103 AK-47 weapons and other assorted weapons that will be assembled as soon as they arrive.

He said that DICOM and D7G collaboration held great prospects for the nation’s military industrial complex, adding that D7G was one of DICON’s most viable partners.

The Chief Executive Officer of D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, said the partnership would focus on bringing new generation technology for defence capabilities in Nigeria.

He said that the industry would soon begin production of ammunition, arms assembling and bomb fit for Nigeria and all of the African market.

More so, Retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development for DICON-D7G, said the joint venture was formed to develop Nigeria’s military industrial complex to enhance security in line with the DICON Act 2023, as well as President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security.

He said the firm, in collaboration with DICON, was set to establish the first military jetty in Lagos on a land covering about 160,000 square metres.

He said the jetty would be used, in addition to stocks of arms and ammunition, for assembling drones on armed aerial vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, 4×4 vehicles, 6×6 armoured personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.

Masanawa said the idea was also to use that opportunity to develop human capacity as the complex intended to employ skilled retired military specialists in the company.

He said that the armed forces had trained their personnel effectively and most of them had retired and would go with their knowledge.

According to him, it is an opportunity to bring them back and tap from them.

“We will also employ young engineers, scientists, electrical and electronic engineers that we will bring on board that will be guided by these skilled military personnel to develop weapons systems, radars, electronics, and also give youths the opportunity to display their skill in this new generation of artificial intelligence,’’ he said.

Masanawa said the joint venture had led to production and assembling of arms in Kaduna factory that would be readily available to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, while developing their factory in Lagos.

He said the company would also go into ship building when its factory comes on stream.

According to him, it will save the government funds in terms of foreign exchange because Nigeria can sell our goods and services, both in naira and in hard currency.

“However, if the government is to procure from outside, they have to pay in hard currency.

“So, we will be saving the government’s forex by providing all the defence equipment needs of the armed forces and paramilitary organisations in Nigeria locally.

“With that, our armed forces and security agencies will be self-sustained and self-sufficient to address all security challenges that have been existing, or may emanate in the future,’’ he said.

Security analysts say the groundbreaking partnership between DICON and the D7 Group of Companies is poised to revolutionise Nigeria’s military industrial complex.

“The DICON-D7G joint venture offers numerous benefits to Nigeria, including reduced dependence on foreign suppliers.

“By developing a viable military industrial complex, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers of military hardware and equipment.

“The joint venture will enable Nigeria to produce military hardware and equipment that meet its specific national security needs, as well as stimulate economic growth in Nigeria by creating jobs and generating revenue.

“The joint venture will also facilitate the development of new technologies and expertise in Nigeria, which can be applied to other sectors of the economy,’’ a security expert said.

Some experts also say the DICON-D7G joint venture offers numerous opportunities for Nigeria, as well challenges that need to be addressed.

They say the challenges include infrastructure development as the joint venture requires significant investment in infrastructure, including manufacturing facilities, testing equipment and logistics.

“The partnership requires the development of human capacity in areas such as design, engineering, and production.

“The joint venture requires significant funding to support the development of infrastructure, human capacity and technology.

“In spite of these challenges, the DICON-D7G joint venture offers a unique opportunity for Nigeria to develop a viable military industrial complex.

“With the right support and investment, this partnership can help Nigeria achieve its national security goals while also stimulating economic growth and development,’’ a security analyst said.

In all, the DICON-D7G joint venture is a significant step towards developing a viable military industrial complex in Nigeria.

By leveraging the strengths of both partners, this partnership can help Nigeria achieve its national security goals while also stimulating economic growth and development.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of national security and economic development, it is stakeholders’ view that the DICON-D7G joint venture offers a beacon of hope for a brighter future. (NANfeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

Lydia Beshel
Feb, Wed, 2025

Defence/Security

Sahel States’ withdrawal from ECOWAS places increased burden on Nigerian military – CAS

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Insecurity

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar, says the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali from ECOWAS has placed more burden on the Nigerian military.

Abubakar said this at the opening of the First Quarter Meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding and Commanders on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that the withdrawal of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) from the existing security frameworks had disrupted the existing security frameworks in the region.

According to him, this development has direct implications for the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which plays a crucial role in countering Boko Haram and ISWAP across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

“With AES member states opting out and Chad considering withdrawal, the MNJTF’s capacity to conduct joint operations is now significantly affected.

“As a result, the burden on the Armed Forces of Nigeria to support the MNJTF will increase, demanding a more robust, agile, and adaptive response from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

“Strengthening operational readiness, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and leveraging advanced air power will be critical in mitigating these evolving threats as we progress through 2025,” he said.

The CAS said that the Sahel region had continued to be a hotspot for terrorism and insurgency, with Al-Qaeda-affiliated extremist groups exploiting weak governance structures to expand their influence.

He added that the porous borders in the Lake Chad Basin, had also allowed the extremist elements to sustain their activities, posing a persistent threat to regional stability.

Abubakar said the Gulf of Guinea also remained vulnerable to maritime crimes, including piracy and illegal oil bunkering, necessitating sustained aerial surveillance and stronger regional cooperation to bolster maritime security.

According to him, addressing these challenges requires a unified approach, emphasising coordinated air operations, intelligence sharing, and strategic partnerships.

He said the meeting would provide a valuable opportunity for them to review the security landscape of Nigeria in 2024, critically assess their operational successes and challenges, and project actionable strategies for the NAF operations in 2025.

“As the senior leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, we shoulder the vital responsibility of ensuring the effective deployment of air power in support of national security objectives.

“I deeply appreciate your dedication and support so far, and I urge each of us to engage in today’s discussions with the utmost commitment, foresight, and resolve,” he added. (NAN)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

Abdulaziz
Feb, Sat, 2025

Features

Leveraging local hardware in reducing military casualties

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By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

A retired military combatant, Sadiq (not his real name), recounted his harrowing experience during a critical operation in the North East, an experience that left him and his colleagues with lasting scars.

He described it as a covert operation that was meant to be highly classified.

“All of a sudden, near our location, gunshots filled the air. Many of my colleagues were down with bullet wounds, terrified beyond words.

“Yes, we are trained to expect the unexpected, but this was supposed to be a covert operation.

“Little did we expect an ambush from terrorists at that moment. It was as if they had prior knowledge of our mission. It was deeply demoralising,” he said.

An ambush is a surprise attack launched from a concealed position on a moving or temporarily halted target.

It may involve an assault to neutralise the target or an attack by fire. Importantly, an ambush does not necessarily aim to seize or hold ground; rather, its purpose is to destroy or harass enemy forces.

Over the years, Nigerian armed forces have encountered numerous ambushes while defending the nation’s territorial integrity and maintaining peace.

For instance, in 2019, attacks by the terrorist group Boko Haram resulted in 148 fatalities among military personnel (Statista).

More recently, in January 2025, suspected Islamist insurgents killed at least 20 Nigerian soldiers, including a commanding officer, in an attack on an army base in Borno State (Reuters).

These incidents highlight the persistent threat faced by Nigerian troops in their ongoing efforts to combat insurgency.

Tragically, many have paid the ultimate price, leaving their families and loved ones devastated.

Hence, the need for preventive measures is timely.

In his article ‘Military Tactics 101: The Anatomy of the Modern Ambush Attack’, Matt Crisara emphasises the importance of avoiding ambushes altogether.

He explains that situational awareness is key, including strategies such as avoiding main roads, not taking the same route twice, travelling in larger groups, and using reconnaissance to select the safest path.

The enduring presence of ambush attacks, he argues, proves that the element of surprise remains one of the most effective strategies on the battlefield.

Given the persistent threat of ambushes, an important question arises: Is it possible to prevent or at least reduce the frequency and impact of these attacks on Nigerian troops?

Recent incidents suggest an urgent need for improved military strategies and equipment.

Analysts say an effective solution lies in the adoption of modern warfare technology.

According to them, a well-equipped force, trained in the use of advanced military hardware, is crucial to addressing this challenge.

Recognising this need, the Federal Government approved a review of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act in 2023.

This revised Act reflects the importance of regulating local and international military businesses to reduce procurement costs while also creating job opportunities for Nigerians.

The updated Act introduces several key provisions, including an expanded mandate for DICON to operate, maintain, and control ordnance factories for manufacturing, storage, and disposal of military materials.

Also, the Act enlarges the Governing Board to include key stakeholders, strengthens policy formulation, and authorises partnerships with both local and international companies to meet Nigeria’s military hardware demands.

Notably, it grants DICON the authority to produce and supply arms and ammunition in Nigeria while also regulating the manufacture and sale of explosives.

Other provisions include the establishment of a Defence Procurement Committee to enhance transparency and accountability.

Additionally, they focus on securing sustainable funding sources and collaborating with the Defence Industries Association of Nigeria (DIAN) to regulate and license defence manufacturers.

In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to empowering local industries for economic growth, engaging private sector players in military hardware production could serve as a viable alternative to imported equipment.

This approach would not only conserve scarce foreign exchange, but also enhance both Nigeria’s economic and military capabilities.

Locally produced military equipment offers several advantages, as it is cost-effective, improves accessibility, enhances national security, drives technological advancement, creates jobs, and ensures greater control over military capabilities.

Furthermore, it allows for customisation to meet specific operational needs while reducing reliance on foreign imports and mitigating supply chain disruptions.

It may be recalled that Nigerian military recently announced plans to harness the skills of law-abiding citizens involved in local firearms and military-grade equipment production.

This initiative was highlighted during an operational visit to frontline troops under Operation Safe Haven in Plateau State, where the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, inspected a cache of locally manufactured arms and ammunition recovered within the operational area.

Similarly, the significance of science and technology in modern warfare has long been recognised as stated in the National Security Strategy of Engagement and Enlargement (1995) by the United States.

“Our defence science and technology investment enables us to counter military threats and overcome any advantages that adversaries may seek.

“It also expands the military options available to policymakers, including non-warfare strategies to promote stability and prevent conflict.

“Science and technology help counter special threats such as terrorism, which cannot be addressed by conventional warfighting forces. They also underpin intelligence capabilities needed to assess the dangers our nation faces.

“The U.S. military also relies on science and technology to make advanced military systems more cost-effective throughout their lifecycle.

“By maintaining a close dialogue with warfighters, the defence science and technology community remains attuned to user needs while educating them on technological possibilities for responding to evolving threats, “the report says.

Several local firms have already made huge investments in military hardware production, manufacturing items such as bulletproof gear, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), assault rifles, and ammunition.

These locally produced items meet international standards and are tailored to Nigeria’s unique operational environment.

Among the most prominent defence manufacturers in Nigeria are EPAIL Ltd and Proforce Nigeria Limited.

EPAIL Ltd specialises in military and paramilitary equipment, including ballistic helmets, bulletproof vests, anti-riot gear, tactical gear, automatic weapons systems, armoured personnel carriers (APCs), mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, and drones.

The company aims to supply high-quality, locally manufactured equipment to meet Nigeria’s security needs.

Proforce Nigeria Limited, on the other hand, designs and manufactures military vehicles and accessories such as armoured personnel carriers, MRAP vehicles, armoured SUVs, and tactical vehicles.

Both companies play an important role in Nigeria’s efforts to develop a self-sufficient defence industry and reduce dependency on foreign imports.

DICON, based in Kaduna, has also made notable progress in recent years, positioning itself as a key player in local military hardware production.

With the newly revised DICON Act, the Nigerian military now has a greater opportunity to mitigate, or even eliminate, the threat of ambushes by equipping troops with modern technology.

Advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence-gathering tools can help detect and neutralise threats before they materialise.

For Sadiq and his fellow soldiers, this development brings renewed hope.

The threat of ambushes or losing their lives in service to their country may soon be greatly reduced, thanks to locally produced military hardware tailored to Nigeria’s unique operational environment. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

Philip Daniel Yatai
Feb, Tue, 2025

Defence/Security

Centre advocates spontaneous reportage of military, security operations

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By Sumaila Ogbaje/Martha Agas

The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), a non-governmental organisation has called on the military and security agencies to be spontaneous in releasing information on their operations to ensure that citizens are carried along.

The Chairman of CCC, retired Maj.-Gen. Christopher Olukolade, made the call at a news conference organised by the centre on Tuesday in Abuja.

The theme of the News conference is, “Setting Agenda for Nigerian Security Forces in 2025”.

Olukolade said there was a need to review the current communication strategies to carry the public along and ensure that Nigerians understand and appreciate what the agencies are doing to ensure security.

He urged military and security agencies to allow professionals to run their information management.

“We want to advocate, for instance, that in terms of their strategy that these agencies, particularly the armed forces, should discard this tendency of biweekly reporting.

“We are advocating a more spontaneous reportage on the achievements and activities related to the nation’s security.

“A practice where we have a biweekly briefing by one agency or organisation, or even collectively, may not be able to carry the public along sufficiently.

“This approach often leads to information overload, and it makes it difficult for the public to fully comprehend and appreciate the efforts of the agencies.

“So instead of that, we are recommending that they adopt a more responsive communication strategy that provides regular updates, if possible, on a real-time situation or as much as possible.

“This will ensure that the public can be properly and well carried along and ensure that they will no longer be in doubt of both the achievement and the essence of security operations all over the country,” he said.

Olukolade, a former defence Spokesman, said the public would appreciate the work of the security agencies more, if they apply more of operational precision.

He added that the security agencies would need to invest more on training, intelligence gathering and equipment handling to be able to achieve precision.

He lauded the military, other security and intelligence agencies for the recent improvement, urging them to continue to build on their successes in ensuring enhanced security for the nation.

The CCC boss also called for the establishment of clear protocols for identifying and engaging targets, as well as procedures for mitigating civilian casualties during operations.

He added that community collaboration with security agencies should be encouraged to ensure that their efforts were not only appreciated, but contribute to the nation’s security.

“We are already working closely with many of them and the local communities, and the security forces can gain more value and insight into a security situation if they are more disposed to carrying the public along.

“So, the Nigerian security forces should foster stronger relationships with, particularly, the local leaders in areas where they operate.

“Then the issue of interagency collaboration should be consolidated and be made more robust.

“It is interesting that there are less and less clashes among the agencies. We believe and we wish that in the years ahead, such will be upheld, and clashes among agencies will be a thing of the past.

“So, the agencies can continue to share intelligence, they can continue to collaborate, and they reduce the level of duplication that leads to the rivalry that tends to affect operations and possibly cause some crisis, both in terms of the conduct of their mission or in terms of communicating their achievements,” he added.

Olukolade also urged the Nigerian security force to leverage on cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and all other innovations and development in technology to enhance intelligence gathering.

He added that security forces should continue to build on and improve on what they had, both in terms of logistics base and content, as well as training of personnel.

He said that the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) had made impressive progress in defence production. (NAN)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Abdulaziz
Feb, Sat, 2025

Defence/Security

DICON’ll meet demands of military, other security agencies- FG

336 total views today

By Muhammad Tijjani
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has said that the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) would meet the demands of the military and other security agencies.

Matawalle said this at the DICON’s end-of-year celebration and Director-General’s
(D-G) Productivity Award ceremony on Friday in Kaduna.

He said that the recent assent of the DICON Act 2023 by President Bola Tinubu has paved the way for the corporation to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

Matawalle emphasised that the defence ministry would continue to limit procurements outside the country.

The minister said, “Any requirements of the military or other security agencies have to come to DICON for supply.

“Before now, we send our money to other countries, devalue our currency which makes the dollar go higher because we don’t have a productivity plan.

“Today, we thank God that with the leadership of the DICON’s director-general, the industry is seeing a lot of changes.”

Matawalle said that DICON would reach its peak in military and paramilitary requirements particularly in the production of arms and ammunition.

He said he earlier never believed that DICON could produce 10,000 rounds of ammunition.

“Today, DICON is able to produce so many rounds of ammunition and forward to the military.

“Our target is to produce 300 million rounds of ammunition.

“We will also be producing other military equipments like MRAPs, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and other equipment for the military and paramilitary agencies,” he added.

Matawalle said the end-of-year celebration and productivity award was supposed to be held annually so as to engender motivation to the staffers.

He commended the director-general, his management staff and other workers for their dedication and hard work.

Earlier, the DICON’s boss, Maj.-Gen. Anaedi Edet, said the celebration and award were to mark the successful conclusion of the corporation’s 2024 activities and production year.

Edet said that DICON was established with the mandate to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces by ensuring Nigeria’s self-reliance in essential military hardware.

He, however, said the mandate was not just for defence, but a strategic move to foster technological advancement and industrial development within Nigeria.

Over the decades, he said, DICON had evolved significantly to meet the dynamic needs of the armed forces.

“Initially focused on the production of small arms and ammunition, we adapted to address the increasingly complex and contemporary threats facing our nation.

“As the landscape of defence technology and industry expanded, so too did our scope, including venturing into civilian applications that leverage our technological capabilities,”he said.

Edet said the corporation had resumed productive activities in spite of the numerous challenges.

In spite of the recorded successes, he said that the corporation has continued to face significant challenges.

These, he said, include funding constraints, outdated equipment, skill gaps and the pressing need for staff training and certifications.

“Looking ahead, we are focused on securing new funding opportunities, investing in modern production lines, and prioritising the training and development of our workforce.

“With a clear vision and dedicated team, DICON is well-positioned to overcome these challenges and achieve even greater success.

“Our ‘All DICON factories must produce’ initiative reflects our commitment to technological innovation and collaboration for the security and prosperity of our nation.

“The DICON end-of-year celebration is not just an occasion to reflect on our achievements, but also a call to action for all employees and stakeholders,”he said.

Edet, therefore, said the event was also a time to recognise and celebrate the exceptional staff who distinguished themselves in 2024.

He addedbthat it highlighted the hard work and dedication of those who have contributed to DICON’s successes.

He assured that DICON would remain unwavering in its commitment to fulfilling its mandate.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Rabi'u Sani Ali
Jan, Fri, 2025

Defence/Security

Kinetic action alone cannot end terrorism – British official

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By Hamza Suleiman

Cynthia Rowe, Development Director for the British High Commission in Nigeria says military action alone is insufficient to address terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Basin region.

Rowe made the statement during the launch of the Community-Based Reconciliation and Reintegration (CBRR) Policy and Transitional Justice Framework at the 5th Lake Chad Governor’s Forum held on Thursday in Maiduguri.

Speaking at a high-level forum on counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria, Rowe stressed the need for a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to security challenges that go beyond military action.

Rowe, a representative of the International Support Group, added that, “the one thing that we all know is that kinetic action alone is not enough to resolve the challenges around extremism and terrorism that many people are facing.

“Effective security measures must also address the underlying causes of extremism, through dialogue, justice, and development,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of integrating both local and national systems, engaging traditional leaders, and ensuring that counterterrorism measures uphold the dignity of affected communities.

“Understanding the root causes of extremism and addressing them through dialogue and community based solutions is essential.

“Reconciliation and community resilience are just as crucial as military action,” she said.

The British official further stressed that crime and insecurity required strategic, accountable, and sustainable solutions.

She pointed to the necessity of practical action, adding that, “the final word I would actually give to Madame Wondu, is about action, not paper; and I think that’s what we are all here for in the end.”

Rowe also spoke about the need for cross-border cooperation among the Lake Chad Basin countries, noting the shared challenges of insecurity, displacement, and extremism facing Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

“It’s fascinating to have our colleagues from Cameroon here who can share insights on what is happening in their country.

“We all have unique experiences but common challenges, and we can learn a lot from one another.”

Reflecting on her previous experience working in Nepal, Rowe spotlighted the importance of collaboration and communication in crisis management.

“The lessons we learned in Nepal about transitional justice and communication are still relevant today.

“The global community is watching Africa, and we are committed to addressing these challenges together,” she said.

Rowe also commended Nigerian officials for their ongoing efforts in engaging with regional stakeholders to find sustainable solutions, and stressed the need for continued international support and collaboration to rebuild communities and restore peace across the region.

She also expressed gratitude for the contributions of organisations such as the European Union and the UNDP in supporting peace-building efforts.

“The world is watching, and it’s critical that we continue working together to address the root causes of extremism and displacement,” she added.

Earlier, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), underscored the importance of a harmonised and coherent approach to national and local reintegration efforts in the Lake Chad Basin.

He noted that the CBRR policy provided guidance to affected countries to support the reintegration process, while recognising the unique context of each member country.

The executive secretary emphasised the necessity of adopting the policy to local circumstances to ensure its effectiveness.

“The CBRR policy recognises the importance of community-level reconciliation and traditional justice to sustain reintegration efforts.

“It also acknowledges that these community-level processes complement nationally-led prosecution strategies and formal mechanisms,” he said.

Nuhu highlighted that the policy also addressed the trauma and damage caused by conflict in affected communities, with a focus on community readiness and the restoration of social and productive infrastructure.

He pointed out that reconciliation formed the foundation for justice and reintegration support, adding that, “it’s crucial to understand the role communities play in the reintegration process,” Nuhu said.

The scribe explained that the policy aimed to harness the capacities of men, women, youth, children, and different groups within the community to ensure the success of the reintegration efforts.

The CBRR policy also proposes the establishment of community committees to drive the process at the local level, with guidance from a central committee overseeing the entire process.

Nuhu explained that these committees would work in tandem with appropriate regional, national, and local governance structures to ensure the success of reconciliation and reintegration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Philip Daniel Yatai
Oct, Fri, 2024

Defence/Security , Sports

Military Games‘ll strengthen cooperation, partnership in Africa – CDS

928 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa said on Thursday that the Africa Military Games would strengthen military cooperation and partnership in the region.

Musa stated this in Abuja at a World Press Conference to announce the forthcoming games, scheduled for Nov. 8 to 30, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

He added that the event presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria’s Armed Forces to showcase their skills to the world and foster camaraderie amongst participants.

He also said the sports fiesta was another means of Nigerian military non-kinetic operations.

The CDS said hosting the African Military Games in Abuja was a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the African region.

He added that it is also an opportunity for the nation to demonstrate its capabilities as a host nation.

“The games will provide a platform for our Armed Forces to compete internationally and exchange best practices with their counterparts from other African countries.

“It will also build lasting relationships that will contribute to the overall security and stability of the continent.

“I am confident that our Armed Forces will rise to the occasion and make the nation proud with their performances both on and off the field,” he added.

Musa said that the Nigerian Armed Forces was currently finalising preparations for the games, including ensuring that necessary infrastructure and logistics support was in place to host this prestigious event.

He expressed gratitude to the Minister of FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, for being a wonderful host, saying that the noble opportunity to host the continent would bring significant benefits to the FCT and the nation in general

He identified economic and sports development, global recognition, and national pride as some of the benefits the country stands to derive by hosting the fiesta.

“Let us therefore come together to ensure a hitch-free event.

“I, therefore, urge all well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to support our armed forces as they prepare to compete in the African Military Games.

“Let us unite as a nation to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and togetherness that this event embodies.

“Let us show them the love and hospitality that Nigerians are known for,” the CDS said.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, AVM Abidemi Marquis, said that the theme of the event is “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports”

He said the objective was to foster the already established relationship among the African armed forces and enhance awareness and cooperation away from war.

According to him, 42 African countries have indicated interest in participating in the games and that 27 countries have submitted their final entries, while awaiting others from now to Oct. 15.

“As of today, we have 17,75 officials and athletes from the 27 countries, out of the 3,000 officials and athletes expected to participate in the games from the 42 countries.

“We will be competing in 19 sporting events, including all the ball games, swimming, obstacle crossing, taekwondo, and wrestling, among others,” he said.

Also, the President of Military Sports in Africa, Maj.-Gen. Maikano Abdullahi said the organisation’s design is to take the African armed forces from the battlefield to the sports field.

“The idea is to bring peace, stability, and understanding among members of the armed forces from the 44-member countries in the continent, to understand ourselves,” Abdullahi said.

In his remarks, Wike thanked the CDS for giving Abuja the opportunity to be the chief host of the games.

The minister said the 3,000 expected participants would become ambassadors and tell the world that indeed, “Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa and that Nigeria is moving forward.

“We will do everything to give you the necessary support so you can have a successful hosting of the event so that your colleagues can be proud of you,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim