As Muslims across Nigeria join millions around the world to celebrate Eid El-Adha, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON, has called on Nigerians to uphold the values of sacrifice, patience, unity and peaceful coexistence for the progress and stability of the country.
In his Eid El-Adha message to Muslim faithfuls and Nigerians, Matawalle said the festival serves as a reminder of devotion to Almighty Allah and the importance of national unity at a time the country continues to confront security challenges.
The Minister urged citizens to continue promoting peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, stressing that these virtues remain critical to strengthening national cohesion and advancing development.
“I extend my warm felicitations to Muslim faithfuls and all Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Eid El-Adha celebration,” he stated.
Matawalle assured Nigerians of his continued commitment, alongside the Armed Forces and other security agencies, to protecting the territorial integrity of the nation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
He also paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and dedication in defending the country against security threats.
“I salute the courage and dedication of our troops who continue to make sacrifices in defence of our nation and its people,” he said.
The Minister further prayed for lasting peace, security and prosperity across the country as Nigerians celebrate the festive season.
Amid renewed security challenges confronting parts of the country, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) OFR, has called for sustained national support and prayers for troops engaged in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and banditry across Nigeria.
General Musa made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving the General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The Defence Minister stressed that military operations alone cannot completely address the country’s security concerns, noting that national unity, moral support and collaboration from religious bodies remain critical in boosting the morale of personnel deployed in various theatres of operation.
He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria remained resolute in defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting lives and property, despite the evolving nature of security threats across the country.
General Musa commended Pastor Muoka and members of the church for their continued prayers and support for the military and other security institutions, describing such gestures as vital to sustaining the fighting spirit of troops on the frontlines.
The minister further urged religious leaders across the country to continue preaching peace, patriotism and national cohesion, adding that faith-based organisations have a strategic role in promoting harmony and supporting national security efforts.
In his remarks, Pastor Muoka assured the Ministry of Defence of the church’s continued support for the Armed Forces and the Federal Government.
The cleric also offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, asking God to grant him wisdom, strength, good health and the capacity to steer the country towards peace, stability and economic prosperity.
Pastor Muoka equally prayed for divine protection and victory for troops combating insecurity, while expressing hope for lasting peace across all parts of the country.
The visit also featured an exchange of souvenirs, as both the Ministry of Defence and the Christian community reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration in advancing national peace, unity and security.
As the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen fiscal discipline and improve accountability in public finance management, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has sought deeper collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Finance to drive ongoing reforms and address operational challenges confronting the agency.
Acting Chairman of the Commission, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, made the appeal on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the FRC management team to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, FCA, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, Abana described the Permanent Secretary as a key figure in the history of the Commission, noting that Omachi was among the pioneer staff of the FRC and served as its first Head of Accounts.
The Acting Chairman said the decision to make the ministry their first official point of call since his assumption of office was informed by the Permanent Secretary’s longstanding relationship with the Commission and his institutional knowledge of its operations.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Finance remains a critical stakeholder in the activities of the Commission and has continued to play a supportive role over the years.
Abana commended Omachi for the support previously extended to the Commission, particularly during the tenure of the immediate past Chairman of the FRC, Victor Muruako, Esq., while appealing for sustained cooperation.
He disclosed that the Commission recently concluded a management retreat where a strategic work plan aimed at aligning its operations with international best practices was developed.
The Acting Chairman also revealed plans by the Commission to organise a workshop on Fiscal Responsibility Index studies for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as part of efforts to deepen compliance with fiscal regulations.
On ongoing reforms, Abana said the Commission was working with the Federal Ministry of Justice to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 to strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
He noted that while the existing law contains several offences, many lack corresponding sanctions necessary for effective implementation.
According to him, discussions are equally ongoing with the National Assembly on fiscal rules and the process of gazetting them.
Abana also raised concerns over manpower shortages within the Commission, attributing the situation to the migration of staff to other government agencies offering better remuneration packages.
He stressed the need for recruitment, training and retraining of personnel to enable the Commission effectively discharge its mandate.
The Acting Chairman further lamented the Commission’s office accommodation challenges, describing the current arrangement as unhealthy and inadequate for efficient operations.
He said deputy directors currently share office spaces with junior officers and appealed for intervention to improve the working environment.
Responding, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, FCA, expressed delight over the visit and commended Barrister Abana’s leadership.
Omachi expressed confidence in Abana’s capacity, as one of the foundation members of the Commission, to reposition the FRC for greater national impact.
He noted that the Commission had continued to make significant contributions to fiscal discipline and accountability in the country, adding that the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 has remained instrumental in promoting prudent management of national resources.
The Permanent Secretary acknowledged the poor office conditions facing the Commission and advised the FRC to formally engage the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), which he described as the Commission’s supervisory authority, on the accommodation issue.
On the proposed amendment of the FRA 2007, Omachi assured the Commission of the ministry’s support, particularly during public hearings and stakeholder consultations.
He also pledged continued institutional backing for the Commission, stressing that its responsibilities require adequate funding and government support.
Omachi further urged staff members to support the leadership of Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana in advancing the Commission’s mandate and strengthening fiscal responsibility in the country.
As Nigeria continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft across several regions, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) says it has intensified coordinated military offensives nationwide, leading to the neutralisation of 317 terrorists and criminal elements in May 2026 alone.
The Defence Headquarters said troops also arrested 314 suspects, rescued 221 kidnapped civilians, recovered 93 weapons, dismantled illegal arms and oil bunkering networks, while compelling 18 terrorists to surrender during sustained operations across the country.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Tuesday during the monthly briefing on ongoing military operations, where he said the armed forces had sustained “unrelenting and comprehensive offensives” through coordinated land, air and maritime operations aimed at restoring peace and safeguarding national security.
Against the backdrop of growing security concerns in parts of the country, Onoja said troops remained under clear directives to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal logistics networks and deny armed groups freedom of operation.
According to him, military operations during the month produced “landmark achievements of considerable strategic significance,” including the destruction of terrorist camps, arrests of gunrunners and collaborators, seizure of stolen petroleum products and rescue of civilians held in captivity.
Giving a breakdown of operations in the North East under Operation HADIN KAI, the DDMO said troops sustained intense pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa and Taraba States.
He disclosed that 73 insurgents were neutralised, 159 arrested and 112 kidnapped persons rescued within the period under review.
Onoja said troops repelled coordinated terrorist assaults in several locations, including Magumeri and Buni Gari, recovering anti-aircraft weapons, RPG launchers, machine guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition during fierce encounters.
He explained that troops also intercepted terrorist logistics convoys attempting to infiltrate Nigeria through border routes from Cameroon, recovering fuel supplies, medications, motorcycle parts and other items allegedly meant for insurgents.
The Defence spokesman further revealed that sustained clearance and rescue operations led to the liberation of several women and children abducted from Ngoshe community earlier in the ayear.
In one of the most dramatic rescue operations, he said troops mobilised a Quick Reaction Force after terrorists abducted commuters along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Borno State, forcing the attackers to abandon eight vehicles and 92 captives during pursuit operations.
He added that troops also detected and safely detonated improvised explosive devices planted along strategic routes by fleeing insurgents.
On Operation FANSAN YAMMA in the North West, Onoja said troops intensified coordinated offensives against terrorists and bandits operating in Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara States.
According to him, 24 terrorists were neutralised, 13 suspects arrested and 22 kidnapped civilians rescued during operations in the region.
The DDMO stated that troops, supported by air assets including Super Tucano aircraft, successfully repelled attacks on military formations in Zamfara State and launched follow-up offensives that inflicted heavy casualties on armed groups.
He disclosed that troops rescued 32 abducted persons, including women and children, during a major offensive in Katsina State, while precision air strikes in Shinkafi destroyed terrorist hideouts.
Onoja also announced the arrest of a suspected major gunrunner linked to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, describing the development as a major breakthrough against arms trafficking networks fueling insecurity in the North West.
In the North Central region, the Defence Headquarters said troops under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE recorded significant successes against kidnappers, illegal arms manufacturers and criminal syndicates operating across Kwara, Niger, Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa and Taraba States.
The Defence spokesman said troops dismantled illegal arms production sites in Plateau State where fabricated AK-47 rifles and weapons-making equipment were recovered.
He added that several kidnappers, ammunition couriers, terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers were arrested during intelligence-driven operations across the region.
According to him, troops also intercepted large quantities of ammunition concealed in vehicles and food consignments allegedly being transported to criminal groups operating along the River Niger corridor.
In the South-South under Operation DELTA SAFE, Onoja said troops intensified the crackdown on kidnappers, oil thieves and economic saboteurs across Rivers, Delta, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
He disclosed that troops destroyed illegal refining sites, intercepted stolen petroleum products and arrested several suspects linked to crude oil theft syndicates.
The DDMO revealed that troops uncovered heavily modified vehicles allegedly being used to transport stolen fuel near the Eleme Petrochemical Company in Rivers State, leading to the arrest of drivers and security personnel suspected of aiding the illegal operation.
On operations in the South East under Operation UDO KA, Onoja said troops sustained offensives against suspected IPOB/ESN elements and violent criminal groups across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi and Imo States.
He stated that 60 suspects were arrested, three terrorists neutralised and 18 kidnapped civilians rescued during operations in the region.
According to him, troops recovered illegal firearms, fake Biafran currency and arrested suspected gunrunners and illegal miners during raids conducted across several communities.
Beyond combat operations, the Defence Headquarters said the armed forces also intensified non-kinetic engagements aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and supporting vulnerable communities.
Onoja said the Nigerian Air Force conducted medical outreaches for residents and displaced persons in Maiduguri, while troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA donated 400 bags of fertiliser to farming communities in Zamfara State to support agricultural production ahead of the planting season.
Reacting to the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State, the Defence spokesman said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, had ordered immediate security reinforcements, aerial surveillance and coordinated operations to track down the perpetrators.
He assured Nigerians that troops would sustain offensive operations across all theatres until criminal networks threatening national security were completely dismantled.
Onoja also conveyed the condolences of the military high command to families of personnel who lost their lives during operations, while commending troops for what he described as their “extraordinary gallantry, tactical ingenuity and unwavering professionalism” in the defence of the country.
Across newsrooms, some of the most impactful investigative reports are rarely produced in isolation, yet many lose momentum once published, weakening the opportunity to sustain public pressure and drive accountability.
It was against this backdrop that the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism organised the virtual Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity and Accountability (CMEDIA) Collaborative Investigations Training, where journalists were urged to embrace partnerships that strengthen investigative reporting and deepen democratic accountability.
Facilitating a session titled “From Idea to Impact,” the Chief Executive Officer of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, Motunrayo Alaka, said successful collaborative investigations must be built on shared public interest values, strategic partnerships and ethical leadership.
“The greatest threat to collaboration is ambiguity,” Alaka stated, stressing the need for clear governance structures, trust infrastructure and agreed operational guidelines among partners.
She explained that impactful collaborative journalism involves risk mapping, stakeholder mapping, language considerations and strategic timelines to ensure credibility, safety, audience reach and long-term impact.
According to her, “Collaborative investigations are ultimately about democratic responsibilities.”
Alaka also encouraged journalists to collaborate beyond traditional newsroom spaces in order to amplify investigative stories and expand audience engagement. “Protect people rigorously, lead ethically,” she added.
Also speaking, Haruna Babale urged journalists to move beyond competition and prioritise partnerships capable of advancing public interest journalism.
“If the goal of journalism is to make society better, then we should grow past competition,” he said.
Babale further questioned the reluctance among journalists to collaborate despite the organised nature of corruption and abuse of public resources.
“What is stopping us from collaborating if those stealing our resources collaborate?” he asked. The training focused on strengthening collaborative investigative journalism as a tool for accountability, inclusivity and sustained civic engagement in Nigeria.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) OFR, has declared that Nigeria’s security and national outlook are steadily improving under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing the progress to the President’s commitment to national security and development.
General Musa made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while speaking with journalists shortly after the commissioning of the annex branch of Haam Legal Consult Services.
The Defence Minister said President Tinubu had continued to provide strong support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, boosting the military’s operational capacity in the fight against insecurity across the country.
He disclosed that the Nigerian military was also collaborating with its American counterparts and other peace-loving nations to tackle the nation’s security challenges.
According to him, the Armed Forces remain fully committed to safeguarding lives and property, assuring Nigerians that troops were working tirelessly to restore peace and stability nationwide.
General Musa, however, stressed that national security could not be achieved by the military alone, calling on citizens to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities.
He warned against harbouring or assisting criminal elements, noting that insecurity persists in some communities because certain individuals continue to shield offenders.
“If all Nigerians decide today that there will be no more support for criminals, I can assure you that within one month, these security challenges would largely become things of the past,” he stated.
Speaking further on leadership and governance, the Minister underscored the need for credible and visionary leaders committed to national growth and development.
“We do not need criminal-minded individuals in leadership positions. We need leaders who genuinely have passion for this country and are committed to making the necessary changes Nigeria desires. We all travel outside the country and see how things work; it is all about leadership. Once we have purposeful leadership, things will change. Nigeria is changing,” he said.
He also urged Nigerians to actively participate in politics and support leaders genuinely committed to nation-building, cautioning against ethnic, religious and sentimental politics, as well as vote-selling.
On the newly commissioned Haam Legal Consult Services annex branch, General Musa commended the initiative of young legal practitioners, particularly the Principal Partner of the firm and Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Barrister Aliyu Anas.
The Minister highlighted the importance of law, justice and human rights in nation-building, stressing that no society can thrive without respect for the rule of law.
“A community that is respected is a community that obeys the law and respects the rights of others. Without law and order, humanity cannot thrive, and no nation can command respect if its laws are not obeyed. Even businesses cannot flourish in an environment where there is no respect for the rule of law,” he stated.
Earlier, the Head of Chambers, Barrister Abdulsalam Ibrahim, appreciated the Honourable Minister of Defence and his entourage for attending the event.
He pledged that the firm would continue to render services with fairness and justice in line with the ethics of the legal profession.
Barrister Abdulsalam Ibrahim added that the firm provides services in areas including land and property agreements, legal advisory services, legal drafting, election matters, property management, contract reviews, real estate and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, among others.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) operations and key energy infrastructure, as concerns over threats to the nation’s economic value chain continue to mount.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa Gwabin (Rtd) OFR, during a courtesy visit by the executive leadership of NLNG to the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
The high-level engagement centred on strengthening security collaboration to safeguard vital energy infrastructure, ensure national economic stability and support NLNG’s ongoing capacity expansion projects.
General Christopher Musa (rtd) stressed that “Nigeria needs gas” and described collaboration between stakeholders as the most effective approach to addressing operational bottlenecks affecting the sector.
The Defence Minister also disclosed that the Federal Government had established a dedicated Maritime Task Force operating within the Gulf of Guinea to tackle insecurity in the maritime domain and protect strategic assets.
He further revealed that amid a global slowdown in international arms procurement, Nigeria was increasingly looking inward by developing local defence production capacity as a sustainable long-term solution. Reaffirming the Armed Forces’ readiness to support NLNG operations, General Musa stated: “I assure you that we are together, and we are going to give you all the support that you need.”
Earlier, the NLNG Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Leye Falade, commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued role in protecting critical national infrastructure essential to economic growth.
Falade noted that disruptions to upstream operations directly impact national output, particularly as NLNG remains a joint venture with majority government ownership.
He also highlighted the growing domestic demand for cleaner energy alternatives, stressing that the company was working to address challenges linked to lack of clean cooking solutions across the country.
“The military has significantly stepped up to help us continue serving the nation. As one of Nigeria’s highest tax-paying organizations, we want to do even more for the economy. We are currently expanding our capacity by 35 percent through our Train 7 project, and safeguarding these operations is paramount to balancing the expectations of our shareholders with our national mandate,” Falade stated.
He particularly praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in ensuring maritime safety and security, describing the Armed Forces as indispensable to protecting Nigeria’s economic value chain.
The meeting ended with both parties agreeing to deepen operational synergy to ensure that NLNG’s expansion projects and ongoing operations remain secure and resilient in driving Nigeria’s future economic growth.
The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, SA (Media to the Honourable Minister).
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) operations and key energy infrastructure, as concerns over threats to the nation’s economic value chain continue to mount.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa Gwabin (Rtd) OFR, during a courtesy visit by the executive leadership of NLNG to the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
The high-level engagement centred on strengthening security collaboration to safeguard vital energy infrastructure, ensure national economic stability and support NLNG’s ongoing capacity expansion projects.
General Christopher Musa (rtd) stressed that “Nigeria needs gas” and described collaboration between stakeholders as the most effective approach to addressing operational bottlenecks affecting the sector.
The Defence Minister also disclosed that the Federal Government had established a dedicated Maritime Task Force operating within the Gulf of Guinea to tackle insecurity in the maritime domain and protect strategic assets.
He further revealed that amid a global slowdown in international arms procurement, Nigeria was increasingly looking inward by developing local defence production capacity as a sustainable long-term solution. Reaffirming the Armed Forces’ readiness to support NLNG operations, General Musa stated: “I assure you that we are together, and we are going to give you all the support that you need.”
Earlier, the NLNG Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Leye Falade, commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued role in protecting critical national infrastructure essential to economic growth.
Falade noted that disruptions to upstream operations directly impact national output, particularly as NLNG remains a joint venture with majority government ownership.
He also highlighted the growing domestic demand for cleaner energy alternatives, stressing that the company was working to address challenges linked to lack of clean cooking solutions across the country.
“The military has significantly stepped up to help us continue serving the nation. As one of Nigeria’s highest tax-paying organizations, we want to do even more for the economy. We are currently expanding our capacity by 35 percent through our Train 7 project, and safeguarding these operations is paramount to balancing the expectations of our shareholders with our national mandate,” Falade stated.
He particularly praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in ensuring maritime safety and security, describing the Armed Forces as indispensable to protecting Nigeria’s economic value chain.
The meeting ended with both parties agreeing to deepen operational synergy to ensure that NLNG’s expansion projects and ongoing operations remain secure and resilient in driving Nigeria’s future economic growth.
The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, SA (Media to the Honourable Minister).
Hassan Ghazaly, founder of Pan African initiative on media and journalism “Afromedia”, expresses his sincere congratulations to the Editorial team of Cairo 24’s website, chiefly journalist Mahmoud El-Mamlouk, editor in chief, on the occasion of honoring the website and receiving the “The best in Middle East” award during the Trend Awards ceremony. This achievement reflects a well-established professional and media status that the website has successfully reinforced within only a few years in Egypt and Africa.
Ghazaly confirmed that honoring “Cairo 24” comes as an influential media example on both the African and local levels, capable of combining speed, accuracy and credibility in delivering news, in addition to its role in following regional and international issues, especially issues related to the African continent and its peoples.
Ghazaly appreciated this achievement, explaining that it indicates the importance of the role that Egyptian media institutions can play in supporting development issues in Africa, highlighting the voice of its peoples, and shedding light on the challenges and opportunities facing the continent, in a way that strengthens bridges of cooperation and media integration among peoples.
He added that this coronation doubles the responsibility of leading media institutions to continue presenting professional content that contributes to raising public awareness, supporting issues of justice and development, and strengthening Africa’s presence in regional and international media coverage. He wished continued success and prosperity for “Cairo 24” and more distinction and leadership in the media scene, which is embodied through the contributions of journalist Mahmoud El-Mamlouk by providing free training for African journalists and media professionals through the “Afromedia” initiative. The Afromedia initiative was founded in 2021 under the slogan “voice of Egypt.. voice of Africa,” and it plays the role of a media communication bridge among the peoples of the continent. The “Afromedia” initiative was established in 2021 with the aim of developing journalistic and media skills for African journalists and media professionals.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of families of military personnel who die in active service, as the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, hosted the brother of late Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah in Abuja.
The late senior officer, described as a gallant Infantry Commander, was killed in action at Benisheikh on April 9, 2026, while serving as Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
Receiving Mr. Hassan Braimah at the Ministry of Defence, the Minister conveyed the condolences of the Ministry and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the bereaved family, assuring them that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers would never be forgotten.
According to the Minister, the Federal Government remains committed to providing continuous care, support and direct access to families of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.
“The Armed Forces will never abandon the families of those who lay down their lives for this country. We remain committed to providing assistance, care and direct access to the Ministry whenever needed,” Musa stated. During the meeting, Hassan Braimah reflected on the life and service of his late brother, describing him as a devoted and courageous officer who served Nigeria with honour and dedication.
He also pledged the family’s support for the loved ones left behind, while expressing pride in the legacy of sacrifice and patriotism associated with the late Brigadier General.
Brigadier General Braimah was buried with full military honours at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri on April 15, alongside seven other military personnel who also died in service.
The visit, according to the Ministry, highlighted the nation’s appreciation for the sacrifices of its military personnel and the government’s determination to preserve their legacy through sustained support for their families.
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