Nigerian Army

By Uzair Adam  

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) under Sector 4 in Diffa, Republic of Niger, intercepted 174 Nigerian men attempting to cross into border communities in Niger.  

The suspects, stopped at Gueskeru, a strategic border town linking Yobe State to Niger, claimed they were travelling to the Lake Chad region for fishing activities.  

However, concerns were raised about the porous nature of the borders, often exploited by terrorist groups such as Lakurawa, notorious for attacks on border communities.  

In a statement, MNJTF spokesperson Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba noted that allowing such a large group of able-bodied men to access terrorist-prone areas could threaten regional security.  

The suspects are currently undergoing profiling and questioning to determine their motives and ensure they do not pose a security risk.  

The MNJTF noted its commitment to counterterrorism, civilian protection, and regional stability.  

It called for enhanced border vigilance and greater collaboration among troop-contributing countries to tackle cross-border terrorism effectively.

By Uzair Adam

Nigerian military troops have intensified their nationwide operations, eliminating 135 terrorists, apprehending 185 suspects, and rescuing 129 kidnapped victims within the past week.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, provided the update during a briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Saturday.

He disclosed that in the North Central region, some terrorists have begun surrendering due to sustained military offensives and collaborative non-kinetic engagements with community stakeholders.

Among those who surrendered are notable figures such as Yellow Jambros, Alhaji Mallam, Ardo Idi (Alhaji Lawal), Lawal Kwalba, Salkado, Yellow Ibrahim, Gana’e, and Babangida.

Buba emphasized that the military would maintain its operational momentum to dismantle terrorist networks and encourage further surrenders.

During the operations, troops recovered 113 weapons and 2,415 rounds of ammunition, including 72 AK-47 rifles, 11 fabricated guns, 15 Dane guns, eight pump-action shotguns, and four hand grenades. They also seized 46 motorcycles, 15 vehicles, 28 mobile phones, and various communication devices.

In the Niger Delta, troops destroyed 93 crude oil cooking ovens, 12 dugout pits, 37 boats, and 82 illegal refining sites.

They also recovered 909,800 litres of stolen crude oil, 71,060 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 13,580 litres of petrol.

Maj.-Gen. Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, stating, “We remain in a winning position in this war and will continue to innovate in our approach.”

By Uzair Adam

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied recent reports about the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), dispelling speculation from certain media outlets.

The DHQ emphasized that no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

In a statement on Monday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, clarified that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on his 2024 annual leave.

The Daily Reality reports that the statement emphasized there are no changes in the military leadership.

“The AFN is professionally managed and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the FGN.

“Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures,” the statement read.

The DHQ urged individuals spreading rumors to stop immediately, clarifying that the COAS is “hale and hearty” and will resume duties at the end of his leave.

Media organizations were advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before releasing “fake news.”

Gusau further noted that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) had spoken with the COAS only a few minutes before the statement.

Additionally, Gusau warned that those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should note that “such actions are treasonable under the Constitution.”

“The AFN is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and are loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” Gusau added.

The Daily Reality gathered that the military remains focused on protecting the nation’s integrity. The relative peace being enjoyed is a result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of AFN leadership.

“To this end, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.

“The CDS appreciates Nigerians for their support and prayers. Victory is assured,” the statement concluded.

By Uzair Adam

In a continued effort to tackle crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, Nigerian troops have successfully dismantled more than 30 illegal refinery sites and recovered over 230,000 litres of stolen crude products.

According to a statement from Army headquarters, the operation took place in several locations, including Assa, Lekuma, Abiama, and other creek areas.

Alongside the destruction of refining sites, the troops also confiscated 44 cooking pots, six wooden boats, and various equipment used in the illegal operations.

Collaboration between the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division and other security agencies in the Niger Delta Region (NDR) has led to increased success in thwarting attempts to steal crude oil.

In the past week, the troops intercepted 12 boats, nine vehicles, and four motorcycles used to transport stolen products, leading to the arrest of eight suspects.

Additionally, in Rivers State, an illegal refining site was destroyed in Akuku-Toru LGA, with 9,000 litres of stolen gas oil recovered.

More operations in the region also uncovered a criminal loading point in Eleme LGA, resulting in the arrest of five guards and the seizure of over 40,000 litres of stolen products.

By Uzair Adam

The Commander of the 3 Brigade in Kano, Brigadier General M.A. Sadiq, has been detained by military police in Abuja over allegations of diverting rice palliatives meant for soldiers and selling military equipment, including operational vehicles and generator sets, to scrap dealers.

According to sources, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters has distributed rice palliatives to soldiers in various brigades across the country on multiple occasions.

However, it is alleged that Brigadier General Sadiq provided only a 5kg bag of rice to the soldiers while selling the remaining supplies.

In addition to the rice diversion scandal, sources revealed that the embattled commander also allegedly sold equipment, including a MIKANO heavy-duty generator, from the Military Training Camp in Falgore, Kano, to scrap dealers.

Brigadier General Sadiq has been replaced by Brigadier General A.M. Tukur, the former registrar of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

The detained officer is currently facing interrogation by the military police’s special investigation branch, and further investigations are underway. He is expected to face a court-martial once the probe is completed.

At the time of reporting, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, had not responded to inquiries.

By Uzair Adam

The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, based in Jalingo, has called on residents of Taraba State, particularly in Jalingo and Yorro Local Government Areas, to remain calm during a military shooting exercise.

According to Captain Olubodunde Oni, spokesperson for the Brigade, the exercise is part of the Army’s Annual Range Classification Phase 2 and will take place at the Jimlari military range from September 17 to September 19, 2024.

The Daily Reality gathered that the aim is to improve the troops’ weapon handling and maintenance skills.

Residents have been cautioned to expect the movement of troops and equipment, including live ammunition firing at the range.

To ensure public safety, the Army has urged people to avoid the 114 Battalion Rear Jimlari Shooting Range during this period.

Similar military drills have been carried out in other states like Gombe and Oyo, aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of military personnel.

The Army recently established new battalions, including the 114 Battalion in Taraba, to bolster security in the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In aggressive, offensive operations against terrorism and insurgency, Nigerian Army troops have obliterated yet another terrorist stronghold, successfully rescuing kidnapped students and seizing a significant cache of arms and ammunition. Troops also eliminated some insurgents, while some others were captured alive.

On 12 September 2024, acting on reliable intelligence, troops stationed in Kaduna State launched a highly coordinated operation aimed at rescuing abducted persons from violent extremist camps. Engaging in an intense firefight at Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government Area, the troops overpowered the terrorists, forcing them to flee and abandoning their captives. 

A thorough sweep of the area led to the rescue of 13 victims, comprising six males and seven females, as well as the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 87 rounds of 7.63mm ammunition, four magazines, a locally fabricated rifle and the sum of ₦192,220.00. 

Five solar panels, five mobile phones, dry rations, and clothing items were also recovered. The rescued victims have been evacuated to 1 Division Medical Services and Hospital for medical attention.

In another decisive operation, troops in Kachia Local Government Area have intercepted two notorious terrorist logistics suppliers, Mallam Usman Waikili and Salisu Idris, at Kagarko village. The troops confiscated the sum of ₦1,306,700.00, three SIM cards, two mobile phones, three national identity cards, 8 ATM cards, 2 Moniepoint POS machines, an MTN MiFi and other items from the suspects.

In a separate operation in Suleja, Niger State, troops stormed a terrorist hideout, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire. The troops’ overwhelming firepower led to the neutralization of 3 terrorists, while three others, identified as Mallam Halalu, Mallam Suleiman, and Mr. Musa, were captured alive. The suspects led the troops to a hidden armoury, where 3 AK-47 rifles, 121 rounds of 7.62mm.

By Uzair Adam

The military high command has vowed to bring Bello Turji, one of the notorious bandit leaders terrorizing Zamfara State and parts of the Northwest, to justice for his crimes against humanity.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, stated during a press briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja that the military is determined to put an end to the levies being imposed by Turji and other terrorists on farmers.

He assured Nigerians that the days of the bandit leader are numbered, urging citizens to support the military’s efforts to restore peace.Gen.

Musa revealed that despite the bandits’ attempts to disrupt the lives of farmers, the military is working tirelessly to end these atrocities.

He also warned communities against supporting or providing information to the bandits, as doing so only prolongs the conflict.This declaration follows a recent visit by Gen.

Musa and other service chiefs to Sokoto, ordered by President Bola Tinubu, to intensify the fight against insurgency in the region.

The Chief of Defence urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to collaborate with security forces to ensure the success of ongoing military operations.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Army has apprehended 23-year-old Adeleye Ayomide, suspected of being the killer of Christiana Idowu, a 300-level student of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), who was abducted in Lagos State.

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the handover of the suspect on Thursday, following an investigation into the incident.

According to Lagos Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, Ayomide was handed over by the Nigerian Army’s 9 Brigade at about 2 p.m. on September 5.

The late Christiana was kidnapped along the Ikorodu-Yaba Road on August 19, sparking public outrage, especially on social media.

The hashtag #JusticeForChristianah has gained traction, with many Nigerians calling for justice.

A user on social media, going by “Man of Letters,” shared details of how the suspect, who was reportedly in a close relationship with Christiana based on their interactions on Instagram, was tracked down.

Security operatives traced Ayomide through his mobile phone, leading to his arrest at his parents’ house in Ikorodu.

Among the evidence recovered from the suspect was the victim’s blue ITEL A56 phone.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to bring justice for the slain student.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Troops of Operation Hadarin Daji were ambushed by terrorists in Bachaka Kurya Forest, Gudu Local Government Area, Sokoto State, resulting in the loss of four military personnel. 

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the incident in a statement released in Abuja, stating, “The ambush took place near the Nigeria-Niger border.

In the ensuing firefight, several terrorists were killed, and troops recovered weapons and ammunition.” The military authorities identified the perpetrators as a terror group from Niger Republic known as Lakurawa. 

“The corpses of the killed terrorist reveal that it was perpetrated by a terror group from Niger Republic known as Lakurawa. Sadly, 4 of our personnel were killed in the encounter,” the statement added. 

The military has vowed to pursue the remaining members of the terror group, who escaped into Niger Republic.

“Troops are however in pursuit to find and destroy the terrorist,” the statement concluded.