Nigerian Army

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has advised soldiers serving under the 14 Brigade in Ohafia to respect human rights and safeguard the rights of children while carrying out their duties.

The directive was delivered during the opening of a two-day sensitisation workshop for troops of the brigade. The event took place in Umuahia, Abia State, on Wednesday as part of the Army’s Civil-Military Affairs programme.

Army authorities also warned the soldiers against engaging in gambling and drug abuse. The troops were instructed to maintain discipline and professionalism while performing their responsibilities.

In addition, the soldiers received a warning about the use of social media. They were told not to upload confidential photographs or sensitive information online. Officials said such materials could be accessed by criminal groups and misused.

The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs in the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Musa Awwal Etsu-Ndagi, explained that the workshop aims to remind troops about their responsibilities and the rights of civilians.

He said the training was designed to educate soldiers on their own rights, the rights of members of the public, and the protection of children. He also stressed the importance of proper conduct while interacting with civilians.

Etsu-Ndagi advised the soldiers to complete their Next of Kin forms accurately and ensure the information remains current. He said updated records would protect the families of soldiers from exploitation if a service member dies.

The senior officer also encouraged the troops to promote unity and understanding within their families.

During the workshop, the Deputy Controller of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Bekwele Chukwu, addressed the soldiers. He spoke about the dangers associated with the use of prohibited or controlled drugs. He warned that such substances could affect a person’s mental stability.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commander of the 14 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmad Mansur Dikko, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for organising the workshop for the troops.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops attached to Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke have prevented a kidnapping incident along the Enugu–Otukpo Road and rescued three victims without any loss of life.

The development occurred on February 25, 2026, when soldiers stationed at the Forward Operation Base in Otukpo were on a night patrol. They received credible intelligence that suspected kidnappers had intercepted an 18-seater Benue Links bus with registration number TYK 221 YK. The vehicle was said to be carrying four passengers alongside a minor when the attack happened.

Security operatives moved quickly to the location and tracked the suspects along their escape route. Their swift action forced the kidnappers to abandon three of the victims. Although there was no direct confrontation during the operation, troops recovered a mobile phone believed to belong to the suspects at the scene.

The Force Commander praised the soldiers for their resilience, alertness, and effectiveness. He noted that their timely intervention helped avert what could have developed into a serious security situation.

He also urged motorists to remain vigilant. According to him, drivers should take note of unusual situations such as a lack of vehicular movement within a two-kilometre stretch and stop when necessary to assess their surroundings. He further advised road users to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security post to enable a quick response.

The statement was issued by Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Lieutenant and Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, on February 26, 2026.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside local vigilantes and hunters, have neutralised a senior Boko Haram figure identified as Abdullahi Mafa in the Madagali axis of Zamfara State.

Security sources disclosed that Mafa, described as a former hybrid commander of the terrorist group, was killed during a coordinated operation in the area.

In a separate development, troops also apprehended a suspected logistics and drone supplier to the insurgents, Dauda Usman Gubula, during another mission in Madagali Local Government Area.

According to security analyst, Zagazola Makama, the encounter took place on Thursday. He said troops came in contact with suspected Boko Haram fighters during an ambush along the Visik River corridor.

The confrontation led to the death of the terrorist commander after an exchange of fire.

Makama further revealed that the alleged collaborator was arrested in a different operation. He said the suspect was picked up during a raid carried out at Madagali Motor Park.

Quoting officials, he stated that security operatives recovered several items from the suspect. These included two aerial drones and 20 solar power banks believed to be meant for terrorist operations.

The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, troops have sustained offensive actions across the region. The ongoing operations are targeted at dismantling Boko Haram cells and restoring normalcy in affected communities.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops under the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE have dismantled a suspected terrorist syndicate during an offensive operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, recording the recovery of arms, ammunition and other operational items.

The operation followed credible intelligence on the activities of a wanted bandit leader and his network. Security sources revealed that the group operated from a hideout located in Mtan Village, Utange Council Ward, within the local government area.

Troops deployed from Sector 1 moved to the identified location after receiving the intelligence. They encountered armed fighters at the hideout. A gun battle broke out during the advance. The suspects later fled the area under pressure from the troops.

Security forces searched the enclave after gaining control. Items recovered included two motorcycles believed to belong to the bandit leader, eight magazines, 162 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm special ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition, and 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Troops also recovered links of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and seven empty 7.62mm NATO cartridge casings. A red Toyota vehicle found at the scene was disabled to stop its use for further criminal operations.

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Moses Gara, applauded the intelligence unit for what he described as consistent and timely information that made the mission successful. He also praised the troops for their professionalism, resilience and tactical conduct during the raid.

He stressed the need for continued cooperation between security agencies and residents. He called on members of the public to sustain the flow of useful information to authorities, noting that intelligence sharing remains vital in the fight against terrorism and other crimes across Benue State.

By The Daily Reality

The Commanding Officer of the 133 Special Forces Battalion in Azare, Bauchi State, Lt. Col. A.K. Kachalla, has come under allegation from soldiers who accused him of protecting a lance corporal said to have absconded with funds belonging to colleagues and business partners.

The claims, raised by whistleblowers who spoke to SaharaReporters on Friday, revolve around 15NA/74/3376 L/Cpl Usman Umar Kao’oje, who is reported to be serving in the unit.

Sources alleged that the soldier was declared absent without leave around September 2025 after he allegedly disappeared with money contributed for business ventures.

One insider said: “He disappeared with between N40 million and N50 million meant for business deals. People trusted him with their money.”

The matter reportedly drew public attention after it appeared on SaharaReporters’ social media platforms on September 30, 2025.

According to insiders, L/Cpl Usman later returned to the unit after about three months. Upon his return, the commanding officer allegedly ordered that he be held in the guardroom pending an orderly room trial or further investigation.

However, sources claimed that while in detention, the soldier threatened to expose senior officers and institute legal action over alleged unpaid debts he said contributed to his financial troubles.

A source alleged: “When the CO (commanding officer) heard about the threat, he quickly ordered his release and assured him that nothing would happen to him. He said he would be protected.”


The soldier was said to have regained freedom after three days.

Another insider claimed that the commander later constituted a Board of Inquiry, which he alleged was meant to suppress the case.

He said: “He was charged and tried at the command level, but since then nothing has been done. A soldier who went AWOL for three months received no punishment. Instead, he was allowed to move freely in the barracks,”

Whistleblowers, according to a report by SaharaReporters, further alleged that the soldier was subsequently posted to Operation Whirl Stroke in Taraba State despite the unresolved accusations.

Sources also claimed that the lance corporal allegedly directed those demanding refunds to the commanding officer.

One source said: “The soldier wouldn’t have been so bold without the support of the CO,”

Insiders added that before he was declared AWOL, the soldier allegedly acted as an intermediary for the commanding officer. They claimed he collected “returns” from military checkpoints in Azare.

The whistleblowers further alleged that part of the disputed funds was used to acquire properties, including a heavy-duty truck reportedly valued at N24 million and deployed for transport business, alongside houses and other assets.

They questioned why due military procedures were not followed in handling the absence and financial allegations.

One whistleblower asked: “How can a soldier be away for three months and the AWOL not be forwarded to the Army authorities? Why was his account not blocked? Why was he not properly tried and punished?”

They argued that the handling of the case suggested complicity within the command structure.

Another source alleged: “This clearly shows that the CO supported the soldier to defraud his colleagues.”

The development, according to the whistleblowers, has angered many personnel within the battalion, who believe the situation has hurt morale and the reputation of the Nigerian Army.

A source said: “Nobody owns the Army. Neither the CO nor the soldier is above the law,”

They called on the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Army Intelligence Corps and the Military Police Provost, to open an independent probe into the matter.

The source added: “The CO and the soldier should be investigated. This attitude is tarnishing the image of the Army,”

Efforts to obtain official responses were unsuccessful. Attempts to reach Lt. Col. Kachalla did not go through as his phone line was unavailable at the time of filing this report.

Similarly, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele, neither answered calls nor replied to a text message seeking comment as of press time.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a move to intensify internal security, the Nigerian Army has deployed a fresh batch of specially trained soldiers to reinforce ongoing operations in the central region.

The troops, from the COAS Special Intervention Battalion XV, have completed an intensive Special Forces programme at the Nigerian Army Training Centre in Kontagora. Their deployment to the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) was approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu.

OPWS operates across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba states, areas plagued by banditry, armed violence, and attacks on communities. The new deployment aims to act as a “force multiplier,” bringing fresh momentum to efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks, safeguarding farmers, and restoring socio-economic activities.

Welcoming the troops, the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, charged them to apply their specialised skills with professionalism and ruthlessness against criminal elements. He emphasized the need for total commitment in a demanding operational environment.

Major General Gara also instructed the soldiers to maintain cordial relations with host communities, uphold human rights, and be cautious in their use of social media to avoid compromising operations. Collaboration with other security agencies was also stressed.

The soldiers, who arrived with high morale, are expected to bolster the fight to restore lasting normalcy to the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC) held a vibrant valedictory parade on Friday to honour ten of its retiring senior officers, marking the end of their distinguished service.

The event, held at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground in Apapa, Lagos, was praised by the Special Guest of Honour, retired Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf. He described it as “one of the most colourful and dignified” ceremonies of its kind, highlighting the military’s role in upholding tradition as the backbone of its discipline and identity.

The retirees honoured were Major Generals KI Yusuf, AA Fayemiwo, J Mohammed, RN Ochei, MO Ihanuwaze, M Galadima, SA Gumel, and Brigadier Generals EA Obona, AS Maikano, and MK Baba-Mallam.

In his speech, Major General Yusuf expressed thanks for divine protection during their service and commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, for his support. He also acknowledged the efforts of Major General TT Sidick, the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), in organizing the successful event.

The ceremony drew a wide array of guests, including serving and retired officers, former army chiefs, commanders, industry leaders, bankers, and the families of the retirees.

The programme featured a formal pulling-out parade, a march-past, and group photographs. Attendees were later hosted to a reception at the Command Finance Office, featuring music, comedy, cultural displays, and refreshments.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have overrun the stronghold of a notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, killing scores of bandits during a fierce gun battle.

This is contained in a statement signed by Lolaniyi Osoba, Lieutenant Colonel, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on February 1, 2026.

The military operation followed credible intelligence which revealed that more than 100 armed bandits had converged at the camp to plan coordinated attacks on surrounding communities and military supply routes. Troops placed the location under close surveillance for several days before launching the assault with support from the Nigerian Air Force.

The troops engaged the bandits on January 31, 2026. Heavy exchanges of gunfire broke out after the terrorists attempted to flank and encircle the advancing forces. The soldiers, backed by superior firepower, repelled the attempt and gained control of the camp. Many of the bandits were killed during the clash, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

After securing the area, the troops set the camp ablaze and withdrew in an organised manner. The Nigerian Air Force has continued interdiction missions to track and eliminate fleeing bandits, while ground forces retain control of the area.

The Nigerian Army confirmed that some soldiers lost their lives during the encounter. One combat enabler vehicle was also struck by an enemy Rocket Propelled Grenade and caught fire. The Army paid tribute to the fallen personnel and reaffirmed its resolve to sustain the fight against banditry.

According to the military, troop morale and combat effectiveness remain high as operations continue to dismantle criminal networks and disrupt their logistics across the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded a major operational success with the killing of a senior Boko Haram commander, Abu Khalid, alongside 10 other terrorists during a night operation in Borno State.

This is contained in a statement signed by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel and Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, and dated February 1, 2026.

Abu Khalid was identified as the second-in-command of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest. He was also described as a key figure within the terrorist hierarchy who coordinated operations and logistics across the Sambisa axis.

The development came less than 24 hours after troops neutralised another notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, who operated within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle.

According to the military, troops of Sector 1, working with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) under Operation DESERT SANITY, engaged the terrorists at the Komala general area of Konduga Local Government Area at about 11:00 p.m. during a night offensive.

Following the encounter, the troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, magazines, several bicycles, assorted logistics and food supplies, as well as a large quantity of medical consumables.

The military confirmed that no casualty was recorded among the troops during the operation. It added that the morale of personnel remains high as clearance operations continue across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle and other known Boko Haram and ISWAP hideouts in the North East.

The Joint Task Force, North East, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the tempo of operations until all terrorist elements are neutralised and lasting peace and economic stability are restored to the region.

The Military High Command also commended the troops for their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities in the North East, while urging them to maintain the current operational momentum.

By The Daily Reality

A family in Benue State has accused a military convoy of killing a farmer, Mr Aondover Tseshom David, along the Katsina-Ala Road, an incident they described as reckless homicide and an abuse of power, SaharaReporters, a Nigerian online newspaper, reported.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. The deceased was said to have been hit by a military convoy while attending to his daily activities aimed at supporting his family.

Relatives alleged that after the incident, security operatives dumped the farmer’s corpse at a police station. The body reportedly remained there until family members were contacted and compelled to arrange its retrieval.

The deceased’s first child, Miss Aondover Msendoo, demanded justice and described the incident as devastating and inhumane.

“My name is Aondover Msendoo. I am a 300-level Nursing student at Bayero University, Kano, and the first child of six,” she said.

“On Thursday, January 22, 2026, my life and that of my entire family were irrevocably shattered. My beloved father, Mr. Aondover Tseshom David, a poor, hardworking farmer from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, was brutally run down and killed by a military convoy along the Katsina-Ala Road.”

She said the family’s pain was worsened by how her father’s remains were treated after his death.

“The horror did not end with his death. His lifeless body was carelessly dumped at a police station as if he were trash, and left there until we, his traumatised family, could gather the strength and money to retrieve him. This act of profound indignity added immeasurable pain to our already unbearable loss,” she said.

Miss Msendoo said her father was the sole provider for the family and struggled daily to cater for his wife and six children.

“My father was the only provider for our family. His life was one of struggle, sacrifice and resilience. Just last July, we endured the agony of his kidnapping from his farm. We sold what little we had and borrowed money to pay a large ransom for his release,” she said.

She added that after his release, he returned to farming in an effort to rebuild their lives before his death.

“He survived criminals and kidnappers, only to be killed not by bandits, but by those sworn to protect the lives of Nigerians,” she said.

According to her, the family now faces severe hardship. She said her mother is overwhelmed, while relatives have mounted pressure for a quick burial due to increasing mortuary bills.

“We are now destitute. My mother is broken and under intense pressure from extended family members to bury my father immediately because of escalating mortuary costs. My five siblings are very young, and their future is now uncertain,” she said.

“As a student, I am struggling to see how I can continue my education while carrying this burden and at the same time fighting for justice for my father.”

Miss Msendoo rejected suggestions that the incident was accidental.

“We are convinced this was not an accident. It was an act of reckless homicide and a gross abuse of power, followed by the degrading treatment of my father’s remains. This speaks to a culture of impunity that has become common in our country,” she said.

She expressed concern that the case could be ignored without public attention and legal action.

“We fear that without the powerful voice of Nigerians and strong legal advocacy, this crime will be ignored and my father will become just another anonymous statistic,” she said.

The grieving daughter appealed to human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), to intervene and assist the family.

“Therefore, I humbly and desperately appeal for help. Please help us secure justice for my father. Help us hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure that no other family goes through this twin trauma of loss and indignity,” she said.

“We need guidance, legal expertise and strong advocacy to navigate this fight against a formidable system.”

Despite their circumstances, she said the family still believed in justice.

“We are poor, but we are not without hope. We believe in the rule of law and in champions who make it work for people like us,” she said.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army and the Benue State Police Command had not released any official statement on the incident.