Africa Security Investigation News

Nigeria to Host the World’s Weather, Water and Climate Leaders at the Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting 2026

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) is set to host the Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting 2026 from 13 to 15 October 2026 at Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos, Nigeria by the invitation of the Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

This event brings together the leadership of the World Meteorological Organization; other seventeen member institutions of the Alliance for Hydromet Development, including major development banks, climate funds and United Nations agencies; ministers and government leaders; development partners, regional and continental bodies; the finance and private sectors; academia and the users of weather, water and climate services to Lagos, Nigeria for three days of high-level dialogue on hydrometeorological investments and the future of weather, water and climate services.

Convened under the theme “Partnerships, Innovation and Sustainable Investment in Weather, Water and Climate Services,” the meeting marks the first time the Alliance’s Annual Meeting will be hosted on the African soil. It offers a platform to showcase African leadership while addressing global priorities for strengthening hydrometeorological services, the systems that underpin disaster risk reduction, food and nutrition security, water resources management, sustainable aviation, efficient energy resource, public health, community resilience and climate adaptation.

As host, Nigeria through the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) serves as a practical case study in national leadership, demonstrating how a country can strengthen its meteorological and hydrological services and coordinate investment in service of the Alliance’s wider objectives, and cushion the budgetary provision of Government in Hydrometeorology.
Organised around five strategic pillars, – Strengthening partnerships and Alliance coordination, – Mobilising sustainable investment, – Innovation and public-private engagement, – Delivering value through user-centred services, – Building sustainable hydrometeorological services; the event promises to strengthen partnerships, mobilize sustainable investment, advance innovation and public-private engagement, and enhance the long-term sustainability of hydrometeorological services.

Under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo Esq, as the Chief Host, “Nigeria is proud to host the Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting 2026 and promote the critical relevance of Weather, Water and Climate services for de-risking national, regional and global socioeconomic activities” said Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General of NiMet and Permanent Representative of Nigeria with WMO.

Further information will be shared through NiMet’s official channels.

Nigeria, Benin Strengthen Defence Cooperation to Tackle Cross-Border Terrorism, Insecurity

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have agreed to deepen defence cooperation, expand intelligence sharing and strengthen joint border security operations as part of renewed efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and transnational crime across West Africa.

The agreement was reached during a three-day working visit to Cotonou by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), where he held bilateral talks with Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Gildas Agonkan, alongside senior military officials of both countries.

According to the Nigerian Ministry of Defence, the discussions focused on improving coordination between the two neighbouring countries to address growing security threats in the sub-region, including terrorism, cross-border criminal activities and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea.

Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting democratic governance, strengthening border security and promoting greater collaboration among regional security institutions to confront the evolving security challenges facing West Africa.

A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to enhance real-time intelligence sharing to enable both militaries identify, monitor and disrupt the activities of terrorist groups, insurgents and transnational criminal networks operating across their shared borders.

Speaking during the visit, General Musa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to deny violent extremist groups safe havens within the region, stressing that stronger collaboration between neighbouring countries remains critical to defeating terrorism.

He also proposed broader operational cooperation along the Nigeria-Benin border to improve the ability of security personnel to prevent the movement of insurgents, arms traffickers and other criminal elements between both countries.

As part of the visit, the Nigerian delegation toured the Centre for Post-Conflict Demining and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operations (CPADD) and the Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ), where discussions centred on strengthening local capacity in defence technology, explosive ordnance disposal and industrial development.

The ministry said the engagements also explored opportunities for greater economic and industrial cooperation in line with ECOWAS trade protocols and the African Continental Free Trade Area.

General Musa further visited Nigerian Army personnel deployed at Togbin, Cotonou, under Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II, a peace support mission in the Republic of Benin, where he commended the troops for their service and assured them of the Federal Government’s continued commitment to improving their welfare.

Addressing the soldiers, the minister said Nigeria would continue working closely with Beninese security forces to prevent criminal groups from exploiting the porous borders between both countries.
“We are going to partner with the troops of the Republic of Benin to ensure that we stop all those bandits and criminals that are killing people in our countries. One of the reasons for my visit is to meet with their Minister of Defence so that we can coordinate our operations and stop these people from infiltrating through our borders,” he said.

Musa also assured the troops that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to providing the support and resources required to enhance their operational effectiveness and welfare.

The Defence Minister equally held talks with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim, during which he reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to regional peace, military cooperation and the welfare of personnel serving the country.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Defence, Leah Katung-Babatunde, General Musa has since returned to Abuja following the conclusion of the strategic visit.

Defence Minister Hails Tinubu’s Historic Military Pay Rise, Says 250,000 Personnel to Benefit

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving what he described as a historic salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying the move will significantly boost troop morale and strengthen national security operations.

General Musa, speaking on behalf of the military establishment and the Ministry of Defence, described the President’s approval as a landmark intervention that reflects the administration’s commitment to the welfare of military personnel and ongoing security sector reforms.

According to a statement signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the salary increase, will take effect from September 1, 2026 and will benefit about 250,000 personnel across the Armed Forces. Under the new structure, personnel from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase, those from Warrant Officer to Colonel will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while senior officers above the rank of Colonel will receive a 30 per cent increase.

The Minister noted that the revised salary package raises the annual personnel cost of the Armed Forces from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion, describing it as evidence of President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of officers and soldiers.

According to General Musa, the salary review will ease the financial burden on troops deployed in various theatres of operation, including those fighting insurgency in the North-East and personnel engaged in combating banditry, oil theft and kidnapping in other parts of the country.

He assured the President and Nigerians that the Armed Forces would reciprocate the gesture with greater dedication, discipline and enhanced operational effectiveness in the fight against insecurity.

General Musa also charged officers and soldiers to regard the improved conditions of service as a renewed call to duty by intensifying efforts to neutralise security threats, protect civilian lives and restore lasting peace across the country.

He reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s agenda of modernising military equipment, strengthening technological capabilities and improving the living conditions of military personnel and their families.

Adeyanju Assumes Office as RMAFC Secretary, Pledges to Advance Commission’s Mandate

Maryam Aminu

The newly appointed Secretary to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Comrade Tosin Johnson Adeyanju, has formally assumed office, pledging to deploy his experience and work closely with members and staff to strengthen the Commission’s capacity to deliver on its constitutional mandate.

Speaking during the handover ceremony held on Tuesday at the Commission’s new Boardroom, Adeyanju assured stakeholders of his commitment to collaborative leadership and efficient service delivery. He also commended his predecessor, Engr. Joseph Nwaze Okechukwu, for his contributions to the Commission and his service to the nation.

The New RMAFC Secretary, Comrade Tosin Johnson Adeyanju

The new RMAFC Secretary expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment, promising to justify the trust by contributing his best to the Commission’s objectives.

In his remarks, the outgoing Secretary, Engr. Joseph Nwaze Okechukwu, thanked the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR, as well as members and staff, for the support and cooperation he received during his tenure. He urged them to extend the same level of support to his successor to ensure continuity in the Commission’s operations.

Before his appointment, Comrade Tosin Adeyanju served as Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), where he provided administrative leadership and supervised the implementation of the Fund’s statutory responsibilities.

L-R: RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR in a handshake with the RMAFC Secretary, Comrade Tosin Adeyanju as the latter resumed office in RMAFC

His appointment followed the expiration of the tenure of Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze and is expected to strengthen the Commission’s administrative machinery as it continues to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

The statement was signed by Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr, Head, Information and Public Relations Unit, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

Matawalle Hails Tinubu Over 30–80% Armed Forces Salary Increase, Says 250,000 Personnel to Benefit

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving a 30 to 80 per cent salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the decision as a major boost to troop welfare and a reward for the sacrifices of military personnel.

Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle

Dr. Matawalle, in a statement by signed by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart (CIO), for Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence said the new salary structure underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare, morale and operational effectiveness of officers and soldiers who continue to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and confront security threats across the country.

The Minister disclosed that the review of military salaries had remained a priority since the inception of the current administration and noted that he personally championed the initiative within government circles.

He commended President Tinubu for what he described as visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.

According to him, the approved salary adjustment will take effect from September 1, 2026, with about 250,000 personnel expected to benefit from the new pay package.

He explained that officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of Colonel to Warrant Officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from the rank of Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increase.

Dr. Matawalle said the salary review forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to strengthen troop welfare as military personnel continue operations against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism nationwide.

Quoting President Tinubu, the Minister said, “The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation.”

He added that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise the welfare of troops while modernising the Armed Forces through the acquisition of weapons and advanced technological tools to enhance operational effectiveness.

The Minister also urged members of the Armed Forces to view the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their dedication and patriotism.
“I urge our servicemen to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland.Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he said.

ECOWAS, AES Must Set Aside Differences to Crush Terrorism, Defence Minister Musa Urges

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has called for a new era of security cooperation between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), warning that the region cannot overcome terrorism and transnational crime without a united front.

General Musa made the appeal on Tuesday as he arrived in Cotonou, Benin Republic, for a three-day working visit focused on strengthening regional defence cooperation and harmonising strategies to combat insurgency, cross-border crime and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. He was received at the Cotonou International Airport by Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan.

Addressing defence officials, the minister stressed that the security threats confronting West Africa have become increasingly interconnected, making collaboration among regional blocs imperative. He urged the leadership of ECOWAS and the AES to bridge existing divides, secure porous land borders against terrorist infiltration and intensify joint efforts to safeguard the Gulf of Guinea from criminal activities.

General Musa said lasting peace and stability in the sub-region would only be achieved through intelligence sharing, coordinated military operations and stronger diplomatic engagement among neighbouring countries.

Responding, Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan, praised Nigeria’s leadership in promoting peace and security across West Africa. He described the country as a dependable partner in efforts to combat transnational crime and preserve democratic governance within the region.

Agonkan also commended the professionalism displayed by the Nigerian Army contingent during Benin’s National Day parade on August 1, noting that their performance reflected the strength and discipline of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.

During the visit, General Musa met with Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s continued commitment to improving troop welfare, boosting operational effectiveness and enhancing the capacity of the Armed Forces to address emerging security threats.

The Defence Minister also visited the Nigeria House in Cotonou, where he held talks with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim. The ambassador reaffirmed that Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Benin remains centred on expanding bilateral trade while deepening joint border surveillance to strengthen security cooperation between both countries.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

Defence Minister Unveils South-East Basketball Championship, Donates ₦2m to Abia Youth Camp

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has unveiled plans for a South East Regional Basketball Championship aimed at identifying and developing grassroots sporting talent, while announcing a ₦2 million donation to support a youth basketball camp in Abia State.

General Musa made the announcement in Umuahia after inspecting the Umuahia Township Stadium at the end of his three-day official working visit to Abia State. During the visit, he interacted with young participants at the inaugural multi-age basketball camp organised by the Crossover Foundation and sponsored by Nigerian diaspora basketball stars Godsgift Achiuwa and Precious Achiuwa.

The Defence Minister commended the Crossover Foundation and the Abia State Government for collaborating to expand youth sports infrastructure across the state, describing the initiative as a strategic investment in the nation’s future.

An avid basketball enthusiast, General Musa announced an immediate donation of ₦2,000,000 to support the camp’s operations and assured participants that the proposed regional championship would provide a competitive platform bringing together emerging basketball talents from all five South-East states.

He urged parents to encourage their children to participate in organised sports, stressing that athletics remains a vital tool for building discipline, leadership qualities and national unity.

The Minister also disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would soon commence targeted sports recruitment programmes to provide talented young athletes with opportunities to pursue careers in the military through sports.

In appreciation of his support for youth development through sports, the organisers presented General Musa with a signed basketball at the end of the visit.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

Defence Minister Unveils South-East Basketball Championship, Donates ₦2m to Abia Youth Camp

Emmanuel Daudu

He urged parents to encourage their children to participate in organised sports, stressing that athletics remains a vital tool for building discipline, leadership qualities and national unity.

In appreciation of his support for youth development through sports, the organisers presented General Musa with a signed basketball at the end of the visit.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

CONYSSA Honours Prince Emeka Dennis for Entrepreneurship, Youth Empowerment

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has honoured entrepreneur and business leader Prince Emeka Dennis with an award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, job creation and socio-economic development.

The honour was presented by CONYSSA as part of its efforts to recognise individuals whose achievements and leadership continue to inspire young Nigerians and promote national development through enterprise and innovation.

Prince Dennis, the Chief Executive Officer of Infinite Luxury Homes and Work & Chop Luxury Autos, was commended for building successful businesses while creating opportunities for young people through mentorship, skills development, business guidance and employment.

A native of Azia Community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, the award recipient was described as a visionary entrepreneur whose businesses have earned recognition for professionalism, innovation and customer satisfaction.

According to CONYSSA, Dennis has remained committed to developing human capital by encouraging young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, acquire practical skills and become economically productive. The organisation noted that his dedication to empowering youths has inspired many to pursue legitimate businesses and become creators of wealth rather than dependents.

CONYSSA further praised his leadership philosophy, anchored on excellence, discipline, accountability and continuous learning, saying his enterprises have become platforms where aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals can build sustainable careers.

CONYSSA said the award recognises Dennis’ enduring contributions to entrepreneurship, youth development, innovation, job creation and economic growth, describing him as a worthy ambassador of excellence whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

AFN Deals Major Blow To Terrorists, Rescues 393 Kidnap Victims, Neutralises Over 102 Criminals In July Operations

By Dr Emmanuel Daudu Ph.D

Abuja, July 31, 2026 – The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded another significant milestone in the country’s ongoing war against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other violent crimes, neutralising over 102 terrorists and criminal elements, rescuing 393 kidnapped victims, arresting 345 suspects and recovering large caches of weapons and ammunition during coordinated nationwide military operations in July 2026.

The remarkable achievements were unveiled on Friday during the monthly operational briefing by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who spoke on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, GCOR, AFM.

According to the military, troops operating across all theatres of operations maintained sustained offensive pressure against terrorists, kidnappers, armed militias, secessionist groups, sea pirates, oil thieves and other criminal networks, resulting in the rescue of hundreds of abducted victims and the dismantling of several criminal enclaves across the country.

In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI intensified operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Adamawa, Borno, Yobe and Bauchi States, eliminating 54 terrorists, arresting 102 insurgents and rescuing 102 kidnapped victims.

Among the major breakthroughs was the killing of Abu Salim al-Barnawi, described as a senior ISWAP commander and propaganda chief, during a fierce military engagement in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

Military offensives also forced dozens of terrorists and their family members to surrender, including a senior ISWAP finance operative who voluntarily surrendered alongside weapons, ammunition, cash and two children after sustained military bombardments weakened the insurgents’ operational capacity.

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA operating across Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi States recorded another impressive outing by rescuing 191 kidnapped victims while neutralising 33 terrorists and arresting 66 criminal suspects.

Military operations successfully foiled several mass abduction attempts, rescued a local government chairman’s family, secured the release of dozens of kidnapped commuters and prevented terrorists from consolidating control in several communities.

Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE collectively recorded significant victories against terrorists, armed militias and kidnappers operating across Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Kwara, Kaduna, Plateau and Taraba States.

Notably, troops neutralised notorious terrorist kingpin Puuga in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, dismantled several criminal camps, arrested dozens of militia members and rescued numerous kidnapped civilians.

The military equally intercepted arms traffickers, recovered sophisticated weapons and destroyed terrorist hideouts used as operational bases for kidnapping and violent attacks.

In the Niger Delta, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE sustained relentless operations against economic saboteurs, dismantling 18 illegal refining sites while recovering over 250,500 litres of stolen petroleum products.

Several notorious kidnapping syndicates were also dismantled in Edo, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States as troops arrested multiple suspects and rescued dozens of kidnapped victims during coordinated land and maritime operations.

Military operations under Operation UDO KA in the South-East also yielded positive results with the arrest of 26 criminal suspects linked to separatist activities, gunrunning and kidnapping.

Troops recovered several assault rifles, pump-action guns, ammunition and other military hardware while dismantling illegal bunkering facilities and criminal hideouts across Abia, Imo, Enugu and Rivers States.

The Air Component of the Armed Forces complemented ground troops through precision air strikes and intelligence-driven operations that eliminated terrorist formations in Niger State while enabling kidnapped victims to escape from captivity.

According to the military, precision surveillance and coordinated strikes significantly degraded terrorist movements and operational capabilities during the month under review.

Beyond combat operations, the Armed Forces continued implementing Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects across several states, including the construction of boreholes, schools, transformers, town halls and mediation initiatives aimed at promoting peace and strengthening relationships with host communities.

Troops also participated in humanitarian interventions, including cholera response activities in Borno State and community engagement programmes designed to foster public confidence and cooperation.

Commending troops for their courage and professionalism, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, praised the synergy among the Armed Forces, other security agencies and local vigilante groups, noting that their collaboration continues to produce tangible results against criminal elements nationwide.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that the Armed Forces remain fully committed to protecting lives, safeguarding national assets and ensuring that terrorism, kidnapping, separatist violence and other forms of criminality are decisively defeated.

The military also urged Nigerians to continue providing credible intelligence through military formations and the toll-free emergency line 193, assuring citizens that all information received would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.