Author Archives: daudupress

Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirms stand on ending  terrorism, insecurity across Country

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, has reaffirmed its resolution in eradicating terrorism and insecurity in its wholistic nature across the federation stating that it is not going back on the resolution made to Nigerians and the good and loving law I ding citizens. 

Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations, made this known to journalists in Abuja during a biweekly press conference on ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria as at 29 February, 2024.



According to him,  “The armed forces is determined to end terrorism and insecurity across the country and therefore taking concrete steps in the direction. For us , creating a safer environment for citizens translates to eliminating all threat hindering the safety and security of  citizens.

“Troops conducted synchronised strikes between  the ground and air forces on terrorist enclaves killing significant number of them.  It is possible to say with significant certainty that these strikes have had significant impacted on the terrorist adversely.

” The focus of the armed forces is to conduct its operations in support of national security interest. Consequently, in February troops recorded significant successes in theatres across the 6 geopolitical zero new of the country. 

“It is important to state that, in February 2024, troops recorded the following: neutralized 974 terrorists, arrested 621 of them  and rescued 466 kidnapped hostages. Furthermore, troops recovered 1,573 assorted weapons, 23,345 assorted ammunitions and  denied the oil theft of an estimated sum over #8 bn (N8,006,996,894.00) only.

“Breakdown for the month of February includes and is not limited to the following: 640 AK47 rifles, 248 locally fabricated guns, 93 pump action guns, 168 dane guns, 15,120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 6,102 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 512 rounds of 9mm and 2,132 live cartridges.

“Others are 8,993,245 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,062,635 litres of illegally refined AGO, 18,950 litres of DPK and 45,950 litres of PMS amongst other item.

“Certainly,  if these terrorist groups don’t come to the table in peace. The armed forces will continue to punish them with overwhelming military force. It would be recalled that we recently took delivery of additional air platform to further enhance our lethal capabilities.

” Contrary to the opinion of some,  troops are making significant strides and recording  notable successes in operations across the country. Though it might not seem so to some, the fact remains remarkable progress is being made.

  Overall, I urge citizens to endure today’s pain for our tomorrow’s gain. We should take solace in knowing that, It is all in a bit to make Nigeria great again.

” We can all begin in making Nigeria great again, by taking on the Celebrate Nigeria Challenge. I therefore throw open the Celebrate Nigeria Challenge”, he said. 

ATACA visits Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo on Tuesday, 27 February, 2024, received in audience, the Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA), delegation led by the Chairman, Oru Leonard Oru.

Keyamo who received ATACA members in his office, commended the Association for seeking to collaborate with the Ministry on adequate and objective coverage and said he will work closely with the association to ensure that the public are properly informed. He said that issues which bother on operations will need to go through bureaucracy.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of ATACA, Oru Leonard Oru requested for the personal presence of the Honourable Minister during the ATACA Annual Seminar, training on technical aspects of operations in the aviation sector, Special interview for the next edition of ATACA Magazine which focus on his one year in office, regular press briefing with the Aviation Correspondents.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the current edition of ATACA Journal which features the hundred days in office of Barrister Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

Learn Skills, Take Your Future In Your Hands- Youth Minister Charges Kogi Corps members

Maryam Aminu

In line with his “One youth, two skills” initiative, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande has charged corps members on the need to equip themselves with market driven skills while serving the country in order to secure their future

The Minister, who gave the charge while on a working visit to the Asaya National Youth Service Corps, (NYSC), orientation camp, Kabba, Kogi state, noted that this will empower them to play a significant role in developing the economy of the nation.

Olawande posited that the future of Nigeria would be greatly enhanced when the youths harnessed their potential and skills.

The Minister, who was welcomed to the orientation camp by the Kogi State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Williams M.A. said he was in the camp to check on the corps members whom he described as “my people.”

Addressing the corps members, the minister urged them to endeavour to learn skills, stating that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the number of its skilled youths.

Mr Olawande addressing the corps members during his visit to their csmp at Asaya at Kabba, Kogi state.

He lamented that due to lack of skill, some job opportunities that should have been given to Nigerian youths, especially in the private sector, are being taken by foreign nationals.

While speaking on the effort of his Ministry to change the narrative, Olawande said, *”At the Ministry of Youth Development, we are encouraging every Nigerian youth to learn new skills. We are setting up the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), which would be a platform for every willing youth of this country to learn skills free of charge. For me, it is unacceptable for any Nigerian youth not to learn at least two skills.”

He further said, “We will keep doing our best to support every willing youth to acquire skills that are relevant to the needs of the global labour market.”

Before leaving the camp, Hon. Olawande inspected the facilities such as the hostels, clinic, kitchen, and the mammy market.

Earlier in her welcome address, the coordinator, Mrs. Williams appreciated the minister for visiting the camp.

She likened the presence of the minister to that of the president, stating that the Kogi State NYSC family was honored to have a representative of the president in the midst of corps members in camp.

In line with his “One youth, two skills” initiative, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande has charged corps members on the need to equip themselves with market driven skills while serving the country in order to secure their future

The Minister, who gave the charge while on a working visit to the Asaya National Youth Service Corps, (NYSC), orientation camp, Kabba, Kogi state, noted that this will empower them to play a significant role in developing the economy of the nation.

Olawande posited that the future of Nigeria would be greatly enhanced when the youths harnessed their potential and skills.

The Minister, who was welcomed to the orientation camp by the Kogi State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Williams M.A. said he was in the camp to check on the corps members whom he described as “my people.”

Addressing the corps members, the minister urged them to endeavour to learn skills, stating that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the number of its skilled youths.

He lamented that due to lack of skill, some job opportunities that should have been given to Nigerian youths, especially in the private sector, are being taken by foreign nationals.

While speaking on the effort of his Ministry to change the narrative, Olawande said, *”At the Ministry of Youth Development, we are encouraging every Nigerian youth to learn new skills. We are setting up the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), which would be a platform for every willing youth of this country to learn skills free of charge. For me, it is unacceptable for any Nigerian youth not to learn at least two skills.”

He further said, “We will keep doing our best to support every willing youth to acquire skills that are relevant to the needs of the global labour market.”

Before leaving the camp, Hon. Olawande inspected the facilities such as the hostels, clinic, kitchen, and the mammy market.

Earlier in her welcome address, the coordinator, Mrs. Williams appreciated the minister for visiting the camp.

She likened the presence of the minister to that of the president, stating that the Kogi State NYSC family was honored to have a representative of the president in the midst of corps members in camp.

Strengthening Peace Support Operations: ECOWAS organizes Workshop on Training in Planning, Management, and Liquidation on Curriculum Development

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, through the Directorate of Peacekeeping and Regional Security (DPKRS), with the technical and financial support of the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations (EPSAO) project has organized a two-day Joint Review Workshop on the development of a Curriculum for the Training in Planning, Management and Liquidation of Peace Support Operations Missions from February 27 to 28, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria.

According to the ECOWAS Programme Officer IT and Communication, Mr. Kouadio Serge in a media summary he signed and made available to journalists in Abuja, the objective of the workshop is to review, harmonize and validate the draft curriculum for training on planning, management, and liquidation of ECOWAS Peace Support Operations missions.

He said, the two days
meeting was attended by training experts of the ECOWAS Commission Peace Support Operations and the ECOWAS Standby Force, training officers from the National Defence College (NDC) and GIZ Nigeria.
“Over the two days, the experts discussed the draft curriculum developed and submitted by the consultant, the methodology and the training strategy to be adopted by the Peace Support Operations Division of the ECOWAS Commission

Speaking on behalf of Dr Cyriaque AGNEKETHOM, (ECOWAS Director of Peacekeeping and Regional Security), Dr Sani Adamu, Acting Head of the Peace Support Operations Division, stressed that “given recent political developments within the West Africa region, having a curriculum that will enhance the capacity of the ECOWAS Standby Force which includes the military, police, and civilians in Peace Support Operations, planning, management, and liquidation for a successful mission is apt. He further informed that the ECOWAS Commission is about to launch its first Peace Support Operations Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone. Therefore, the development of this curriculum came at the right time.

Dr Cyriaque AGNEKETHOM also welcomed the continued support of the EPSAO project implemented by GIZ on behalf of the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), he acknowledged and thanked National Defence College Abuja Nigeria, for the longstanding partnership as the ECOWAS Training Centre of Excellence on Peace Support Operations at the Strategic Level.

Defence Hdq Hosts USA  Air War College Participants

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday,  27 February 2024 played host to participants of  United  States of America Air War College at the Armed Forces Complex in Abuja.

According to Brigadier General Tukur Gusau
Acting Director Defence Information on the
28 Feb 2024, while welcoming the participants  who were on a study tour of the DHQ , the Chief of the  Defence Staff (CDS),  General Christopher Musa,  represented by the Deputy Director of Plans at the DHQ,  Brigadier General Ismail Oloyede  assured them of a memorable stay in Nigeria. He eulogized the  United States Government for  the Super Tucano aircraft sold  to Nigeria, emphasizing that the combat platform have yielded desired  results, particularly  in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country.  He  sought  for information and intelligence sharing between the United States and Nigeria to help  contain insecurity.

In a remark  at the occasion, the  Leader of the participants, Colonel John Gunter thanked the CDS for the warm reception accorded him and  the participants. He stated that the tour of DHQ  was not just  to hold  discussion  on the military operations and perceived  challenges in Nigeria,  but also on that of the globe  at 
largel. Colonel John assured the DHQ that American Government will continue to support and partner with Nigeria in area of intelligence sharing and overall security of Nigeria.  He also pointed out that both countries need to work together to achieve a better and peaceful place in the world

Highlights of the occasion  featured  a brief on the history, organization and roles of the DHQ which dovetailed to an  interactive session; presentation of souvenirs and group photograph between the participants/their leader and senior officers of the  DHQ.

FG TO DEEPEN BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH US ON MILITARY COOPERATION

The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence Dr Ibrahim Abubakar kana, mni has said that the Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to reinforce the bilateral relations with the United States on Military Cooperation.

According to Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr, FCAi, Fsca, Fcpe, Director ( Information & Public relations) in a press release said Dr Kana stated this when he hosted the delegations of the United States Air War College participants undertaking Foreign Study Tour of allied countries, in Ship House Abuja.

Describing Nigerian foreign policy as afrocentric, he said Nigeria has played a major role in providing Peace Support Operations to many African countries such as Mali, Equatorial, Liberia, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Gambia, Sudan and Chad among others.

Nigeria and United States of America have  enjoyed a mutual bilateral relation over the years following the establishment of a  diplomatic relation with Nigeria in 1960.

He further explained that the inauguration of the civilian President in 1999 deepened the relationship between both countries and improved  the cooperation on foreign policy goals such as regional peace keeping.  

The Permanent Secretary noted that the visit of the United States Air War College participants would help both countries to reinforce
Military Cooperation as a working tool for future collaboration.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Col. Gunter John appreciated the Permanent Secretary for granting them audience adding that the visit would afford them the opportunity of learning from Nigeria’s approach to defence management and  the defence structures.

The highlight of the meeting was the presentation by the Ministry on the existing bilateral military cooperation of both countries.

NiMet And Varysian Ltd Sign MOU To Partner In Key Areas

Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Tuesday, 27th February, 2024, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Varysian Limited, a United Kingdom-based weather and climate services consultancy, to partner in key areas that will lead to improved service delivery by the agency.

Speaking at the MoU signing, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike said that the MoU signing and eventual actualization will further strengthen the agency’s commitment to providing world-class weather and climate information services to Nigerians and the various industry sectors that it serves. “We are happy to be partnering Varysian Limited. Their expertise is in enhancing partnership and collaboration between National Meteorological & Hydrological Services (NMHS) and other industry stakeholders, through world-class events, data and research”, Professor Anosike said.

“The MoU covers a lot of areas but most importantly, we will prioritize operationalizing capacity development of our staff in marine meteorology, instituting a mentorship programme for our staff with global weather and climate services organizations and improving our capacity in parametric weather insurance”, Professor Anosike concluded.

The MoU signing was witnessed by the Executive Director of Legal Services of NiMet, Barr. Shola Gabriel and other staff of the agency. The Chief Executive Officer of Varysian Limited, Tom Copping signed the MoU on behalf of Varysian, while Professor Charles Anosike signed on behalf of NiMet.

Learn to remain loyal to constitutional authorities and be Patrotic to our nation-CDS tells Nigerians

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has urged all Nigerians to continuously remain patriotic to the nation and law abiding, stating that there is no other country that we can call our own aside Nigeria.

The CDS made the statement while giving a remark at the 1 Day Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria, DECAN, Seminar with the theme: Civil Military Relations: Non-Kinetic Efforts of the Nigerian Military in Security Management, Challenges, and prospects held on the 27th Feb., 2024 at the Army Resources Centre, Abuja.

While speaking further, he has this to say, “I most encourage and employ us all that we must endeavour to continue to remain loyal to constitutional authorities and be patriotic to our great nation.

“And then the members of the media, I’m happy that you have been very positive. I just want to encourage you not to get discouraged. The challenges are enormous all over, but we must look at the positive as well as speak well of our country.



“I assure you that the federal government will continue to give the armed forces of Nigeria and other security agencies the resources required to perform effectively.”


Speaking on the theme,
“Some of the non kinetic activities conducted by the enforcement of Nigeria Operation Safe Corridor designed to deradicalize, rehabilitate, and reintegrate surrendered, willing and repentant members of the terrorist groups are result driven. Others are civil military cooperation and engagement with key leaders of various communities and stakeholders, especially those that are directly affected by security as well as the veterans.

“It is worthy to note that the non kinetic efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have produced appreciable outcomes complementing our kinetic actions.

“Though non without challenges, I wish to assert here that the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other various security agencies have continued to work tirelessly to improve Nigeria’s security.

“Going further, I want to state that tackling threats in Nigeria is a continuous process whereby the development of resilience at societal, national, and regional levels plays a key role. This involves the cooperation and integration of the military, private sector, local authorities, civil society organization, non governmental organizations, the academia, international organizations, amongst other with the sole aim of accomplishing strategic goals.

The President  of the Association,  Comr. Ismail Musa lauded the effort of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in making the event a dream come through, affirming the commitment of journalists in the security beat of their support in the fight against insecurity across the nation.

Earlier, the National Coordinator, NCTC, retired Rear Adm. Yaminu Musa, represented by Commodore BM Sule stated that in recent years, “we have witnessed the expanding role of the military in addressing non conventional security threats such as terrorism, insurgency and communal conflicts. Previously, attention was only given to the kinetic means in managing security. However, the Nigerian military currently utilizes non kinetic approach which involves strategies that don’t involve direct use of military force. These approaches could include community engagement through civil military cooperation, information operations and conflict resolution methods aimed at resolving security issues without physical combat.

“The Nigerian military has been actively involved in various non kinetic initiatives aimed at promoting stability, peace and development as the non kinetic approach has become increasingly relevant in managing today’s complex security landscape.

“In today’s modern society, the relationship between the military and the civilian population is a crucial aspect of national security and governance.

“Civil military cooperation is essential for ensuring the defence of a nation and building public trust in the military which is vital for maintaining national stability and unity.

“The  press plays a significant role in shaping this relationship as it serves as a bridge between the military and the public. The press has been a dependable partner in projecting the military in positive light by providing accurate and timely information to the public.

“By reporting on military operations, security challenges and government initiative, the press helps keeps citizens informed, fosters transparency and makes public officials accountable. This information is essential for a well informed society and can influence public perceptions, policies and decisions related to security and defence.

“Furthermore, the press plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and understanding between the military and the public.

“Through news coverage, interviews, and opinion pieces, journalists can help to educate the public about the role and mission of the military.

“This increased understanding can lead to greater cooperation and collaboration between the military and civilian communities as both sides develop mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s roles. Moreover, the press can serve as a platform for the military to communicate with the public”, he added.

Come To The Aid Of The Good People Of Kogi State- Group Begs President of The Court of Appeal

Maryam Aminu

Members of a concerned organization, Kogi Youth Frontiers for Good Governance has appealed to the office of the President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria and well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the good people of Kogi State both at home and Diaspora to kindly wade into some security concerns plaguing the 2023 Kogi State Governorship Election Tribunal at it current sitting in Abuja.

The President, Kogi Youth Frontiers for Good Governance, Comrade Ibrahim Danjuma, made the appeal in a statement he signed and made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja

Danjuma expressed that the Tribunal was billed to conduct its activities in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital but due to some massive state of insecurity in the ancient city, it was well-considered to get it moved to Abuja, the nation’s seat of power.

He added that for those who have been following this ugly development or trend in the state since after the ill- fated and bastardized Kogi State Governorship election held on the 11th November, 2023, political watchers will agree to the fact that a particular political party in the state has been laying claim to victory during the election.

He disclosed that the political party is currently going about to intimidate and ready to unleash mayhem on their challengers.

The President added that the party is also set to destroy evidences or proofs that could make them lose their supposed victory they claimed they have in their kits.”

“Authoritatively, they have recruited idle young and evil-minded youths popularly called thugs to attack some law-abiding individuals, institutions, structures and property in order to hide their weaknesses at the Tribunal. He alleged

“With this ugly and ignoble development and for the safety of Tribunal officials, lawyers and INEC staffers and the witnesses, the Tribunal listened to the appeal of Kogites and considered it proper to move its sittings to Abuja and which to us in this group and to the generality of Kogites welcomed it and considered the decision as very timely, right, ideal and cogent.
Really, it was a huge relief and a thing of joy for every reasonable person when the announcement was finally made to relocate the sitting to Abuja.
But surprisingly, on 26th February, 2024, at its sitting in Abuja, the unusual happened, as attempts were made to over populate the Tribunal with uninvited guests sponsored by some undemocratic forces to thwart the sitting and to create confusion and skirmishes in Abuja,” he expressed

“All these would have led to impromptu conclusion of its sitting yesterday but thank God, wisdom was applied by the judges led by Hon. Justice Yusuf Ado Birnin Kudu as well as the security agents in attendance.

He disclosed that the evil intention of the thugs at the Tribunal was to scare away several principal witnesses through intimidation and violence.”

Appealing to the President of the court of Appeal, the organization said:
“Madam, we are appealing to your office to please provide adequate security to the Tribunal members, as well as the witnesses and journalists covering the Tribunal’s proceedings.”

The organization noted that a local radio station called the Tao FM in the state has made several announcements warning the people from giving any evidence at the Tribunal against a particular political party and candidate from Kogi Central Senatorial district adding that any such attempt will be met with reprisal or serious sanctions.

“This radio announcement is verifiable.
We plead with you to allow witnesses to give evidences via Skye zoom to avoid intimidation and physical or verbal attack which has been the cases in recent days.” They pleaded

“Madam, this is our major concern and appeal to you.
Ma, for your information, it has been alleged that three witnesses from a political party were kidnapped yesterday in Abuja and taken to unknown destination by these thugs. This is our fear for other witnesses that may be willing to give hard evidences at the Tribunal. Please kindly act immediately and may God bless you.”

IPCR Has The Potential To Promote Peace In The Country- BIO- IBRAHIM

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim has said that the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has a germane role to play in the promotion of peace, conflict prevention, management, and resolution in the country.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim stated this when she received a delegation from the Institute in her office in Abuja.

L-R ; Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Hon. Minister of Youth Development and Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) during their courtesy call on the Minister in her office.

The Minister disclosed that she was aware of some of the activities of the IPCR because she had been one of its close observers.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim in a statement by the Head Press and Public Relations, Maryam Umar Yusuf expressed
preparedness to synergise with the Institute to ensure that the youth play their cardinal role in peace and conflict resolution in the country.

She also stressed the need to collaborate with the IPCR to implement the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security by adopting, validating and launching of the National Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security.

“It is important to deploy a non kinetic approach to conflict resolutions in order to have lasting peace in the country,” she said.

According to her, “A clear concept of the role to be played by the youths is needed in the effort to stem the tide of banditary militancy, and boko haram so as to bring about enduring peace and harmony in our nation.”

Speaking further, the Minister emphasized that one of the priority areas of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is the inclusion of youth in ensuring peace and harmony in the country. She therefore advised the DG to come up with a clear plan on how the youths can be actively engaged in keeping the peace.

Earlier speaking, the Director General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu said the Institute provides Nigeria and some other countries with policies based on result oriented research to build capacity in conflict management, adding that collaborating with the youths in conflict resolution will foster togetherness and patriotism.