TheNewsGuru

Tag: Nigerian Army

  • Soldiers kill terrorist kingpin, rescue victims

    Soldiers kill terrorist kingpin, rescue victims

    The Nigerian Army says it has recorded major operational successes in recent operations, killing a notorious terrorist commander, identified as Amirul Fiya, also known as Abu Nazir and others.

    The acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, in a statement, said the troops also apprehended other suspects, rescued kidnapped victims and recovered assorted arms and ammunition.

    Anele said the operations took place between Thursday and Saturday under various commands and formations.

    In Borno, she said that troops of 3 Battalion, deployed at Forward Operating Base Rann Kala in Balge Local Government Area, repelled an attack by ISWAP/JAS terrorists on Thursday.

    According to her, the corpses of three terrorists, including their top commander, identified as Fiya, were recovered.

    She added that troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, two rocket-propelled grenades, an unexploded ordnance and other combat items.

    “A follow-up operation with the Civilian Joint Task Force and Hybrid Force on Aug. 9 led to the discovery of another terrorist corpse.

    “They also recovered a QJC 88-barrel gun, an AA gun tripod, 20 rounds of 12.7 x 108mm ammunition, a backpack and a bicycle,” she said.

    In Zamfara, Anele said the troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 2 acted on credible intelligence on Friday about terrorist activities on Gusau–Kaura Namoda road in Unguwar Sariki Musulmi, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

    According to her, the swift response forced the terrorists to flee, and two kidnapped victims were rescued and reunited with their families

    In Ebonyi, she said the troops of 24 Special Engineer Regiment Saturday responded to a communal crisis between Iyimagwu and Ekpomaka communities in Ikwo Local Government Area.

    “Troops came under fire from an abandoned building and responded decisively, neutralising one armed criminal.

    “One G3 rifle, 50 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 16 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and four hand grenades were recovered,” she said.

    Anele said the Nigerian Army remains resolute in defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting law-abiding citizens.

    “We are committed to sustaining aggressive operations, working in synergy with other security agencies, to ensure lasting peace and security across the country,” she said.

  • Nigerian army reacts to viral video on arrest of Foreign Dealer In Zamfara

    Nigerian army reacts to viral video on arrest of Foreign Dealer In Zamfara

    Nigerian Army has disowned a viral video on the arrest of a foreign arms dealer, Shehu Ali Kachalla, as a recent development linked to its operations in Zamfara State.

    In a statement by the acting director of Army Public Relations Lt-Col Appolonia Anele, he said, “The Nigerian Army wishes to categorically state that the said video is not recent.”

    She said the individual featured in the footage Shehu, Ali Kachalla, a 30-year-old Nigerien national, was arrested by the Zamfara State Police Command on 14th May, 2021 in a joint intelligence-led operation involving operatives of the Federal Intelligence Bureau (FIB) and the Special Tactical Squad (STS) of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Anele said the suspect had confessed to having illegally supplied over 450 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition to criminal elements across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger States.

    According to her, while the suspect in the 2021 case alleged collusion by an unnamed security personnel, no Nigerian Army personnel was indicted or arrested in connection with the matter.

    “The resurgence of the old video on social media is therefore, at best, aimed at misinforming the public, while undermining the ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” she said.

    The Director noted that the Nigerian Army maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unprofessional conduct. Where there are proven cases involving its personnel, appropriate disciplinary actions are always taken in line with the Armed Forces Act and other extant military regulations.

    She therefore urged the general public to disregard the recirculated video as outdated and misleading.

    “We also advise content creators and social media influencers to verify the authenticity and date of materials before sharing same in order to avoid unnecessary panic or confusion,” she added.

    She reiterated that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    “We shall continue to collaborate with sister security agencies and communities in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality threatening peace and stability in our country,” she said.

  • BREAKING: Nigerian Army confirms 17 soldiers killed in Niger State

    BREAKING: Nigerian Army confirms 17 soldiers killed in Niger State

    The Nigerian Army has confirmed that 17 “courageous” soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty at Kwana Dutse, in the Local Government Area of Niger State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the Nigerian Army confirmed this in a statement declaring a three-day mourning period to honour the soldiers.

    According to a statement posted on the official X account of the Nigerian Army, the mourning period will begin from June 25th to June 27th, 2025.

    “It is with profound respect that the Nigerian Army declares a three-day mourning period, from June 25th to June 27th, 2025, to honor the bravery and sacrifice of 17 courageous soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty at Kwana Dutse Local Government Area, Niger State.

    “As a mark of solemn tribute, all Nigerian Army formations and units have been directed to fly the Nigerian Army flag at half-mast.

    “During this period, we pay our deepest respects to these fallen heroes and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones.

    “Their unwavering dedication, valor, and sacrifice in defense of our nation will forever be remembered and cherished,” the statement reads.

    It was gathered that the courageous soldiers were killed in a fierce battle between troops and terrorists, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides.

    TNG reports the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, had visited the troops to assess the security situation in the area, following recent encounter.

  • Nigerian army speaks on planned attack against South-East

    Nigerian army speaks on planned attack against South-East

    The Nigerian Army has reacted to a misleading video alleging that the Federal Government and South-East and Northern governors have planned to transport weapons to attack South-East residents.

    The Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, in a statement warned residents to avoid digitally manipulated voice and video content circulating on social media platforms.

    Ayeni further described the claims as “entirely deceptive” and “a calculated attempt to incite disaffection among ethnic groups in the country.

    Ayeni urged the public to remain vigilant and rely only on accurate and verified information.

    He said, “The public is therefore urged to remain vigilant and rely only on accurate and verified information from credible sources, especially in this era of artificial intelligence and digitally manipulated content.

    “Ordinarily, the Division/Operation Udo Ka will not dignify such baseless allegations with a response.

    “However, in line with our overarching mission to ensure peace and security for socio-economic development in the region, we find it necessary to strongly condemn the misinformation.

    “The deliberate misinformation is designed to instil fear and cause public anxiety. Furthermore, all security agencies operating in the South-East region have significantly fostered peaceful coexistence through the effective neutralisation of threats to physical security.”

    Ayeni noted that any attempt by anyone or groups of persons to undermine the security architecture in the region would be futile.

  • Aligbe: Army’s transformation enhances operational efficiency

    Aligbe: Army’s transformation enhances operational efficiency

    The transformation of the Nigerian Army has undergone significant developments with a dynamic and pragmatic approach aimed at enhancing operational efficiency within joint and multi-agency environments, an official has said.

    Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Nigerian Army, said this in a statement issued by Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, TRADOC, in Minna on Wednesday.

    Uba noted that Aligbe said this while declaring the 2025 Department of Training In-House Study Period for personnel opened in Minna.

    He emphasised the critical role of capacity building and sound training in enhancing joint military operations.

    Aligbe, who was represented by the Chief of Research Development Test and Evaluation (CRDT&E), Maj.-Gen. Aminu Chinade, highlighted the significance of the study period as key training initiative within TRADOC’s 2025 forecast of events.

    The commander stressed the significance of the forum in advancing a professionally responsive Nigerian Army, in line with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) command philosophy.

    He emphasised the need for synergy between the army and relevant security partners to leverage global advancements.

    Aligbe urged participants to engage actively in deliberations to generate practical solutions that would enhance professional competence and improve the nation’s security framework.

    The commander expressed appreciation to COAS, Lt.- Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his unwavering support in making the study period possible.

    He reiterated the command’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

    Earlier, the Chief of Training, TRADOC NA, Maj.-Gen. Peter Okoye, highlighted the expertise of the carefully selected resource persons.

    Okoye expressed his confidence in the ability of the resource persons to deliver insightful perspectives on pressing security issues.

    He urged participants to contribute meaningfully to discussions as the outcomes of the study period would play a crucial role in shaping the NA’s training policies and operational strategies.

    The newsmen report that the event brought together top military officers, resource persons, and stakeholders to discuss contemporary security challenges and strategies for improving training effectiveness.

    The event with the theme, “Promoting Capacity Building through Effective Training for Joint Operations,” was designed to create an interactive platform for participants to exchange ideas on contemporary military challenges.

    The participants were drawn from Headquarters TRADOC A, 31 Artillery Brigade, 313 Artillery Regiment and members of the National Youth Service Corps.

  • Ikeja Cantonment renamed in honor of late COAS, Taoreed Lagbaja

    Ikeja Cantonment renamed in honor of late COAS, Taoreed Lagbaja

    The Nigerian Army has renamed the Ikeja Cantonment in honor of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the renaming ceremony held on Friday, February 28, with the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu attributing the move as a tribute to Lagbaja’s bravery and dedication to the nation.

    “This renaming is not just a new title; it represents our respect, gratitude, and recognition for the courage and sacrifices of one of Nigeria’s exceptional military officers, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the former chief of army staff,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    “By naming it after Lieutenant General Lagbaja, we pay tribute to a leader whose life exemplified courage, discipline, and patriotism.”

    Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Olufemi Oluyede stated that the Ikeja Cantonment was the most fitting place to honor Taoreed Lagbaja, as he had spearheaded significant infrastructural developments there during his tenure as commander of the 9 Brigade.

    “Some of these include the extensive renovation of officers and soldiers’ accommodations, the upgrade of the schools and medical centre facilities as well as restoration of the cantonment water treatment plant,” Oluyede said.

    “He was also key to resolving the intractable challenge of poor electricity supply to the cantonment. Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s impactful intervention undoubtedly brought comfort and joy to the cantonment community.”

  • Two soldiers killed during raid by IPOB’s armed wings In Imo

    Two soldiers killed during raid by IPOB’s armed wings In Imo

    The Nigerian Army on Saturday confirmed the death of two undisclosed officers following an attack by operatives of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

    According to the Army,  the 34 Artillery Brigade recorded a loss even though the military operation carried out  killed an unspecified number of criminals.

    The report also indicated that the operation which occurred on Friday witnessed a raid on members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Osina, Ideator North Local Government Area of Imo State.

    “The troops while returning from routine patrols responded to a distress call of IPOB/ESN attack on Osina Community, on arrival, the troops engaged the terrorists with overwhelming firepower as the dissidents withdrew in disarray.

    “Unfortunately, 2 security agents had been killed in action and 1 other missing in action and their weapons, an AK 47 Rifle and a Tear Gas Launcher were carted away by the terrorists,” the Army said.

    The statement revealed that the corpses of the slain were officers subsequently recovered and the troops proceeded to pursue the fleeing terrorists.

    The Troops, again, met with another set of IPOB/ESN elements at Nkwachi Community, where a gun duel ensued and led to the death of one.

    While others fled into the nearby forest, the Army said its troops pursued the criminals into Umalouma forest where a further gunfire broke out.

    “The dissidents finally abandoned their weapons due to the troops’ superior firepower and scampered into the thickly forested area with severe gunshot injuries.

    “An additional five (4) Ak-47 rifles, one (1) Fabrique Nationale Rifle and five (2) Magazines were recovered. A total of six (5) AK 47 Rifles and a Tear Gas Launcher were recovered,” the statement said.

  • Army arrests Miyetti Allah President, Badejo

    Army arrests Miyetti Allah President, Badejo

    The President of the Fulani socio-cultural organization Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Bello Badejo, has been arrested by soldiers from the 117 Guards’ Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

    TheNewsGuru.com(TNG) reports that Badejo was detained on Monday after an altercation between a retired soldier and Fulani pastoralists escalated, leaving the retired soldier with injuries.

    An official of the organization has expressed concern over Badejo’s continuous detention, describing it as worrisome.

    The official said, “From what we gathered, some fulani pastorists had an altercation with a retired soldier suspected to Air Force who live within the Tudun Wada community in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, which caused some bodily injury on the retired soldier.

    “The following day, the angry soldier mobilized his colleagues from the Keffi barrack to the location. Upon arrival, they cause panic and fear in the community through their sporadic gunshots. The were said to had equally made away unspecified number of cow. Unfortunately, the matter didn’t end there.

    “On Monday when the Miyetti Allah President returned from journey, the soldiers from the Keffi barrack stormed his office at Maliya cattle market, Tudun Wada, Nasarawa State, and picked him up to an unknown location, and he has been there with them without communication.

    “The sad part of the drama is that these fulani pastorists are neither his children, workers, nor were known to him. But, obviously, he was picked up because he is the President of the socio-cultural organization, hence he is seen as father and leader of fulani herdsmen.”

    Meanwhile, there are indications that he has been transferred to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for further investigation.

  • Oluyede officially assumes command as 24th COAS

    Oluyede officially assumes command as 24th COAS

    The Nigerian Army on Monday, performed a symbolic lowering and hoisting of command flag at Army Headquarters as Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, assumed command as the 24th Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

    NAN recalls that Oluyede was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on Oct. 30 in acting capacity following the death of his predecessor, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, had on Nov. 1, handed him the insignia of office in an unusual fashion in line with the Armed Forces Act.

    The symbolic lowering and hoisting of the command flag which signifies the beginning of his tenure, came after the Senate and House of Representatives confirmed his appointment.

    Until his appointment, Oluyede served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna.

    The 56-year-old Oluyede and Lagbaja were course mates and members of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA).

    He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987 and rose to the rank of Major General in September 2020.

  • Senate confirms Oluyede as substantive Chief of Army Staff

    Senate confirms Oluyede as substantive Chief of Army Staff

    The Senate on Tuesday at plenary confirmed the appointment of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

    The confirmation followed the adoption of a report of the Committee on Army on screening of Oluyede.

    The report was presented by the Chairman of the Committee, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC-Katsina).

    Yar’Adua said the committee was impressed with the high level of understanding, achievements and excellence stated in the credential of the nominee.

    He said the nomination of Oluyede is in line with Section 217, Subsection 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

    He also said that the nomination is in accordance with the provisions of Section 18, Subsection 1 of the Armed Forces Act.

    He explained that “the nominee possesses the required competence, experience and educational qualifications to be conferred with Chief of Army Staff.

    Yar’adua said the nominee had been cleared by the DSS, and went through the correct process of promotion till date, qualifying him to occupy the position of Chief of Army Staff.

    He said the committee had diligently and meticulously conducted the screening of the nominee and was satisfied with his conduct, competence, experience and educational qualification and

    urged the Senate to confirm the nomination.

    The Senate, thereafter, confirmed the appointment of Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.