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Tag: army

  • How Army, Police, local forces rescued abductees in Enugu forest

    How Army, Police, local forces rescued abductees in Enugu forest

    Six victims who had been kidnapped in Enugu State were released unharmed on May 2, following a coordinated operation by joint security forces.

    The victims were freed at about 7:30 AM after intense pursuit and pressure from the troops of the Nigerian Army, police, neighborhood watch members, and forest guards.

    The kidnappers, unable to withstand the mounting pressure, abandoned their captives in the Nkwo Okwutu forest in Nsukka Local Government Area, which lies along the border between Enugu and Kogi states.

    The rescued individuals include Reverend Sister Ukwluaba Ogochukwu, Ugwan Likani, Ezema Goodluck, Ukwuaba Esther, Chekueuche Odo, and Reverend Sister Florian Amrdia.

    All six victims were taken to the Catholic Hospital Emene for medical evaluation and were found to be in good health. After being debriefed, they were reunited with their families.

  • Army Chief kicks against beating, harassing civilians in military uniform, says, it’s wrong

    Army Chief kicks against beating, harassing civilians in military uniform, says, it’s wrong

    The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army), Major General Gold Chibuisi, has condemned the harassment and assault of civilians unlawfully wearing military uniforms, stressing that while such acts are illegal, the Nigerian Army does not support violence against offenders.

    Speaking during a media chat with Defence correspondents on Saturday night in Abuja, Maj. Gen. Chibuisi said that although it is against Nigerian law for non-military personnel to wear military uniforms, soldiers must act professionally and lawfully when handling such cases.

    “I’m surprised that in most briefs we give in our programmes, we always talk about this uniform issue because it keeps recurring. It’s against the law of the land. If you are not in the armed forces, please don’t use our uniform, whether you love it or not.

    “But that’s one part of it. Let people stop it. The other part is what we do, what our troops do when they see somebody dressed in a military uniform. You’re supposed to just get the person to remove it, arrest, and hand it over to the police, basically for persecution. All these other things that come with it are not right. And we are doing sensitisation on them.”

    He said many soldiers had been sanctioned for assaulting Nigerians who wore military camouflage.

    ” Those that we find and there is evidence that they did that, we always sanction them sternly. And we’ll continue to do that, ” Chibuisi said.

    He appealed to citizens to avoid wearing military uniforms illegally, noting that respecting the uniform is an important part of strengthening national security and building trust between the military and the public.

    Chibuisi noted that criminals increasingly exploit military uniforms to commit crimes, making it harder for civilians and security agencies to identify genuine soldiers.

    “Currently, there are a lot of criminals using military garb to perpetrate crime. If people keep dressing like that, how do you differentiate between a criminal and a genuine soldier?”
    He urged families and communities to help with sensitization at the home level.

    “If somebody you know is not in the military comes out in the morning, and he wants to jog or drive somewhere wearing our uniform, you should tell him not to, “he said.

    Chibuisi also reminded the public that the Army belongs to the people and should be seen as part of their families, not as distant or fearsome figures.

    “There is no army that doesn’t want itself to be seen as working for the people. We are the Nigerian Army. The Nigerian people own us.”

    As part of efforts to foster better understanding, the Army, he said, is strengthening its sensitisation campaigns both internally among troops and externally to the wider public.

    “We are fine-tuning the conduct of our personnel.
    “And I believe as we keep interacting, the relationship will continue to improve, ” he said.

  • COAS orders Nigeria Army to free Kwara, Niger from bandits

    COAS orders Nigeria Army to free Kwara, Niger from bandits

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has given a marching order to the Nigerian Army to flush out bandits terrorising the people of Barutein and Kaiama local governments of Kwara.

    The Chief of Army Staff similarly gave an order to fish out terrorists in Borgu in Kainji Forest of Niger within one month.

    Oluyede gave the order on Wednesday at the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigeria Army, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin.

    Addressing the troops, Oluyede said that the Nigerian Army would not allow the insurgency in the North-East to escalate to the North-Central.

    He said that it was the responsibility of the Nigerian Army to protect the territorial integrity of the nation and no single part of the territory would be taken away by insurgents.

    The Chief of Army Staff gave the troops one month to recover all areas in Baruten, Kaiama and other areas in Kainji Forest from the bandits.

    “All of you have promised to fight and recover whatever the insurgents might have taken from the country and I believe you will keep the promise.

    “In the next one month, I don’t want to see any one of the insurgents in our borders again,” he ordered.

    Oluyede promised better welfare, feeding, education and hospital facilities for members of the Armed forces, adding that he wish to see soldiers children becoming medical doctors, engineers and other professionals.

    “I want you to restore sanity to the areas in just one month, so that you can return home to your families. That means you have to be committed, dedicated and serious.

    “I know you can do it. To make sure those people leave that place, as soon as possible, before they turn the place to their base,” he said.

    NAN recalls that a group of yet to be identified terrorists recently surfaced in Kaiama and Baruten local governments of Kwara where seven people were killed on April 21.

  • Lt.-Col. Anele assumes command as first female army spokesperson

    Lt.-Col. Anele assumes command as first female army spokesperson

    Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Anele, on Tuesday, took over command of the Directorate of Army Public Relations as the first female officer to hold the position in the Nigerian Army.

    Anele, whose appointment is in acting capacity, took over from the erstwhile Director, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been posted to the Nigerian Heritage and Future Centre, Giri Abuja.

    In her remarks, Anele said she recognised the enormous responsibilities that come with the office, as well as the expectations and the historic significance of her appointment.

    She promised to uphold professionalism as the first female officer to be entrusted with such strategic role as army spokesperson in the history of the Nigerian army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    She thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for finding her worthy of the appointment.

    ”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven,” she said.

    Anele commended her immediate predecessor, Nwachukwu, for his passion, resilience, and professionalism, adding that he had laid a formidable foundation and transformed the directorate to an enviable state.

    According to her, Nwachukwu’s contributions to enhancing the image and strategic communication of the Nigerian army over the years are remarkable.

    She urged the media to continue to support the army as partners in progress, and commended the defence correspondents for their professionalism in reporting military activities.

    The new spokesperson also encouraged the media to continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in their engagements for the good of the nation.

    ”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian army.

    ”I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.

    ”As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.

    ”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation,” she said.

    Earlier, the outgone spokesman, thanked the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, for the privilege to serve and as well as their trust, guidance, and unflinching support.

    Nwachukwu said that the COAS’ vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian army inspired them to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of the army.

    He also appreciated members of the press who had over the years, been relentlessly and untiringly weathering the storm with the army in its effort at eradicating security challenges in troubled parts of the country.

    ”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.

    ”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place.

    ”Take the directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity,” he said.

  • Army appoints first female Spokesperson

    Army appoints first female Spokesperson

    Authorities of the Nigerian Army have appointed Appolonia Anaele as the acting Director, Department of Army Public Relations.

    Anaele, a Lieutenant Colonel, will formally take over from Onyema Nwachukwu, a Major-General next week Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

    Anaele, will be the first female senior military officer to be appointed as the spokesperson for the ground troops.

    Checks showed that since the creation of the Nigerian Army over five decades ago, no female officer has manned the public relations department.

  • Nigerian soldiers under Operation ‘Fansan Yamma’ raise alarm, say we’re being fed poisonous food, owed allowances

    Nigerian soldiers under Operation ‘Fansan Yamma’ raise alarm, say we’re being fed poisonous food, owed allowances

    Nigerian soldiers deployed under Operation Fansan Yamma in the North West, covering Katsina and Zamfara states, have condemned the food provided to them, describing it as poisonous and inedible, stating that even a street child would refuse to eat it willingly.

    They also lamented the absence of meat in their meals, the non-payment of allowances, and unsafe drinking water.

    One of the soldiers, revealed details of their ordeal. “The food is so bad that even Almajiri can’t eat it with happiness, I swear,” he said. “That’s not food, that is poisonous and disgusting. It is also without meat and tasteless.”

    He decried their treatment despite their sacrifices in fighting bandits. “We are fighting bandits, risking our lives, but unfortunately, we are suffering. Poor feeding, non-payment of our allowances as at when due.”

    According to him, the hardship has persisted for over two years and six months, forcing many soldiers to contemplate leaving the job.

    “That is what we are passing through for over two years and six months. That makes many soldiers consider leaving the job because of this treatment.”

    He also expressed concerns about the water they consume, stating that its source is dangerously close to toilets. “It is not up to 20 metres away from the toilet and bathroom. There is a possibility of toilet water linking to the borehole.”

    Expressing his disgust, he added, “I always tell our people that the water may have its way back to the underground water of the borehole… Very disgusting.”

    “Thank God they are sharing the food now.”

    However, he maintained that the core issues of poor feeding, unpaid allowances, and unsafe drinking water remain, affecting morale among the troops battling banditry in the region.

    Recall that the same troops from Operation Fansan Yamma, North West, had expressed frustration with the military’s failure to rotate them, citing a lack of funds.

    The troops, who were initially assigned a six-month deployment, have now spent two years and six months on the frontlines without being allowed to return home.

    Despite being overdue for redeployment, the soldiers say they are repeatedly told there are no funds to facilitate their return. Many of them have not seen their families in years, leading to exhaustion and demoralisation.

    “About the ill-treatment, we are facing here in Operation Fansan Yamma North West. And the most important thing is that we are due for rotation from the operation but up till now, they keep telling us no funds to change us back and see our family,” one of the affected soldiers had lamented.

  • Sudan military recaptures presidential palace from RSF

    Sudan military recaptures presidential palace from RSF

    The Sudanese army has recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum from the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, military leaders have said.

    Video and photographs posted on social media and verified by the BBC show jubilant soldiers waving their guns, cheering, and kneeling to pray.

    The army appears poised to regain control of the capital two years after it was kicked out by its paramilitary rivals, known as the RSF.

    The paramilitary group has yet to comment.

    Nabil Abdallah, the army spokesperson, said on state TV that the military took control of the palace and ministry buildings in central Khartoum.

    “Our forces completely destroyed the enemy’s fighters and equipment, and seized large quantities of equipment and weapons,” Abdallah added.

    “We confirm that we will continue fighting until victory is complete.”

    Khartoum is where the country’s brutal civil war began nearly two years ago, and where some of its biggest battles were fought.

    The RSF has held most of the capital as well as the west of Sudan since the start of the war.

    Reclaiming Khartoum would be a huge victory for the Sudanese Armed Forces and a pivotal moment in the conflict. The army has also made gains in parts of central Sudan in recent weeks.

    On Thursday, witnesses reported explosions from drone attacks and air strikes near the Republican Palace.

    In a video recording on Saturday, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, vowed to defend the presidential palace and surrounding areas that are under the control of his paramilitary group.

    He threatened further attacks in several northern cities.

    Several peace efforts have collapsed as the rival forces vow to continue fighting to control the strategic areas.

    The war has caused the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, according to the UN, with both the RSF and the army accused of widespread human rights abuses.

  • Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety – Army chief tells troops

    Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety – Army chief tells troops

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has urged Nigerian Army troops to make the country safer and more secure for all citizens.

    He gave this charge while addressing troops during his maiden operational visit to 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Charimaigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, on Sunday.

    Oluyede praised the troops for their efforts and sacrifices in safeguarding national security, defending sovereignty, and protecting Nigeria’s interests.

    He said: “When you consider security challenges in the North-West, North-East, North-Central, and beyond, it’s clear that more needs to be done.

    “Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety. This requires greater commitment, a sense of duty, responsibility, and courage on our part.

    The COAS pledged to prioritise soldiers’ welfare and that of their families, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication to the nation.

    Under his leadership, the Army has increased Ration Cash Allowance (RCA), Instructors’ Allowance, and introduced affordable housing schemes for soldiers post-retirement.

    He also assured troops of regular supply of uniforms, kits, combat gear, improved living and working conditions, and access to soft loans for those in need.

    Soldiers were urged to take advantage of loan and housing schemes to secure their own homes after retiring from service.

    He promised continued efforts, within available resources, to improve conditions for troops and their families across the Army.

    “My philosophy is to do my utmost to enhance welfare for you and your families, and to build a stronger, better-equipped Army.

    “If there’s no security, development cannot happen. It’s our joint responsibility to ensure safety, for Nigeria’s progress and our children’s future.

    “As your leader, I’ll do my best to improve your lives. But you must remain committed to securing Nigeria,” Oluyede said.

    He cautioned troops against extravagant lifestyles and urged them to live within their means and earnings.

    NAN reports that Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, led the COAS on an inspection of ongoing and completed projects in the barracks.

    The COAS also performed ground-breaking for an electrically powered borehole (6,000-litre capacity) and laid foundations for new non-commissioned officers’ residential quarters.

    Oluyede inspected the remodelled and upgraded 12 Brigade Medical Centre during his visit.

    He was accompanied by Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and other senior Nigerian Army officers.

  • Don’t panic on hearing gunshots in Enugu – Army

    Don’t panic on hearing gunshots in Enugu – Army

    The Nigerian Army has advised residents of Enugu State not to panic upon witnessing heavy movement of troops and equipment, or hearing gunshots, between March 17 and March 20.

    Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, gave the advice in a statement issued in Enugu on Thursday.

    According to Unuakhalu, the activity is part of a week-long range classification exercise by Nigerian Army personnel.

    “In line with the Army Headquarters Training Directives for 2025, the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army will conduct its first range classification exercise of the year from Monday, March 17 to Thursday, March 20, 2025.

    “The range classification will take place at the Army Training Area in Udi Local Government Area (LGA), located just outside the Enugu metropolis.

    “The exercise is designed to sharpen the shooting skills of officers and soldiers in the Division, as well as assess the serviceability of weapons that have not been deployed in operations,” he added.

    Unuakhalu further assured the public, especially residents of Ogbede, Ukehe, Umoka, Affa, Ochima, and Onyohor communities in Udi LGA, that there was no cause for alarm.

    He urged them not to panic on sighting heavy movement of troops and equipment or hearing gunshots during the specified dates.

    “Additionally, locals are advised to stay clear of the range area throughout the exercise, as it will involve the use of live ammunition,” he said.

    “Thank you for your usual cooperation, and please accept the warmest regards of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division Nigerian Army,” Unuakhalu added.

  • Release detained Okuama residents or charge them to court, Reps tell army

    Release detained Okuama residents or charge them to court, Reps tell army

    The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Army to release the detained innocent members of Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta or charge them to court.

    The call was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved by Rep. Francis Waive (APC-Delta) at plenary on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Moving the motion, Waive recalled the unfortunate killing of 17 soldiers on March 14, 2024, whose lifeless bodies were discovered in Okuama community.

    He said that the incident led to the reprisal destruction of the community and the arrest of some residents by the army.

    The lawmaker further stated that since the event happened, the perpetrators of the crime had not been arrested despite claims that the alleged criminals were known to the authorities.

    “Several innocent indigenes of the community, including Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogo, Mr Dennis Amlaka, Miss Owhemu Mabel and Pa James Oghoroko, who died in custody, among others, were detained and have since been in detention.

    “The affected community requested that a judicial inquiry be made to look into the facts of the events, an option that was not considered.

    “The Committee on Defence conducted an investigation into the matter, in which the army refused to participate.

    “The Nigerian Army decided to conduct their own investigations; it is believed that by now, one year later, they should have had sufficient time to conclude investigations,” he said.

    The house urged the army to release the investigation’s report and rebuild the homes destroyed by their men in the wake of the incident.

    In his ruling, the Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, mandated the Committee on Defence to ensure compliance and report to the house within four weeks for further legislative action.