Military
Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa
Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa
By: Michael Mike
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has disclosed that steps are on to reinvigorate the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in order to tackle terrorism in the West African subregion.
Speaking in Abuja at Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary Foreign Policy Public Lecture, organised by the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN), Tuggar disclosed that Nigeria is leading the push for the reinvigoration of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and in collaboration with other countries of RCOWAS is working at repositioning the regional Standby Force to effectively counter terrorism.
He further assured that Nigeria will continue to promote governance based on constitutional authority, structured transitions and accountability to the population.
Tuggar said: “The Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are the essential building blocks of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). And it is safe to say that the creation of the AfCFTA is now a public convention, as well as a political conviction widely accepted across the globe.
“No RECs, no AfCFTA. However, we cannot sustain growth without peace, stability, and good governance.”
He advised the regional bloc to uphold its commitment to integration, resolving disputes peacefully, maintaining security in the region and democratic governance.
He said: “For peace to reign in ECOWAS and the expanding Sahel, we must continue to proffer our own organic solutions, with the support of partners who are genuinely committed to our developmental aspirations. We must not allow our region to become a zone of global contestation.”
“I wish to reiterate that our foreign policy is always in service to domestic needs and priorities. The Tinubu Doctrine of 4-D Diplomacy – based on Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora – is aligned with the Administration’s 8-point Agenda.
“We must work with regional and international partners to achieve these objectives, which include job creation, industrialisation, infrastructure development and security. We count on your trust and continued cooperation in this important mission.”
He stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is paying close attention to developments in other parts of the world and rigorously analysing them for more efficient implementation of foreign policy.
He said: “The worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan; escalating conflict in the Middle East; recently released report on the Future of European Competitiveness by Mario Draghi, the former President of European Central Bank; as well as the upcoming US Presidential elections, could have a profound effect on global geopolitics, leading to further weaponisation of migration, heightened insecurity and increased competition for influence in Africa.
“We also continue to monitor piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, implementation of sustainable climate and energy transition frameworks, advancements in Artificial Intelligence, the impact of cryptocurrency, as well as ongoing efforts to reform global governance structures and the international financial architecture.
“We are at a critical juncture, and charting a path forward requires continuous consultation with experienced policymakers like yourselves.
“The insights of our retired Ambassadors and senior diplomats are invaluable, as we navigate the evolving challenges in our region and our planet. Your experience has shaped the past and your counsel is essential in shaping the future.” He said.
Also, the former Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff, Gen Martin Luther Agwai, reiterated that over the years, ECOWAS has made tremendous effort to foster democracy and maintain stability.
“From mediating, organizing peaceful elections, our regional body has remained a key player in advancing democracy and peace. We have witnessed ECOWAS respond to unconstitutional changes of government, actively restoring governance and ensuring that the voice of the people is being respected.”
He noted that: “These efforts have not only strengthened democracy, but also showcased our region’s resolve to stand firm on the face of instability.
“That is why in Sahel, where terrorism, transnational crime, and humanitarian crises continue to threaten regional stability, ECOWAS, in collaboration with African Union and other international partners, have been in the forefront and in the effort to promote African-led solutions to these crises.
“By coordinating security initiatives, deploying peacekeepers and peacekeeping missions, and facilitating dialogue, our region is taking concrete steps to ensure that the Sahel remains part of a stable and prosperous West Africa. He said.
The Chairman of ARCAN, Ambassador Joe Keshi, in his welcome address, noted that one of the most pressing challenges facing ECOWAS is regional security.
He added that the rise of terrorist groups and cross-border conflicts has threatened stability and undermined economic development.
“In response, ECOWAS has strengthened its security architecture, including the establishment of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group.”
“The security challenges facing our region require collective action and coordination. ECOWAS must continue to work closely with member states, international partners, and civil society to address these concerns.”
“ECOWAS’ economic integration efforts must prioritize inclusivity and equity. We must ensure that the benefits of regional cooperation are shared equitably among member states and citizens.”
Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa
Military
COAS INAUGURATES INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES COURSE 17/2024, UNDERSCORES COMMITMENT TO LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY IN MILITARY OPERATIONS
COAS INAUGURATES INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES COURSE 17/2024, UNDERSCORES COMMITMENT TO LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY IN MILITARY OPERATIONS
By: Our Reporter
In a significant stride toward enhancing language proficiency within the Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja NAM, officially inaugurated Indigenous Languages Course 17/2024 today, October 15, 2024, at Hall C, TY Buratai Block, Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), Abuja. Representing the COAS at the event was the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General OJ Akpor, who highlighted the critical role of indigenous language training in improving communication and operational efficiency, particularly in diverse and challenging environments.
The inauguration ceremony attracted a distinguished audience, including the Director General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Major General GA Wahab (Rtd), who was represented by the Executive Director Consult, Major General AS Ndalolo. Also in attendance were Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, Directors at NARC, Consultants, the Managing Director of LACLIC Services Limited, and several resource persons, underscoring the importance of the initiative.
The Indigenous Languages Course, now in its 17th iteration, is part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to empower personnel with the linguistic skills necessary to enhance military operations, foster better community relations, and address security challenges across Nigeria’s multilingual regions.
COAS INAUGURATES INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES COURSE 17/2024, UNDERSCORES COMMITMENT TO LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY IN MILITARY OPERATIONS
Military
MILITARY SECRETARY (ARMY) SENSITISES OFFICERS IN 1 DIVISION AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY ON CAREER PLANNING AND PROSPECTS
MILITARY SECRETARY (ARMY) SENSITISES OFFICERS IN 1 DIVISION AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY ON CAREER PLANNING AND PROSPECTS
By: Our Reporter
The Military Secretary Army MS(A), Major General Eyitayo Folusho Oyinlola has sensitized officers in 1 Division Area of Responsibility on career planning and prospects in the Nigerian Army on 14 October 2024 at Headquarters 1 Division Auditorium, Kawo, Kaduna.
Earlier in his welcome address, the host and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Mayirenso Lander Saraso, expressed his appreciation to the MS(A) for the well packaged and informative lecture. He emphasized the importance of career planning in helping officers set professional goals and as well achieve them.
He noted that the lecture aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of ensuring that officers are well-informed about their postings, promotions, and professional growth. He encouraged participants to strive for excellence through hard work, discipline and commitment to duty. The GOC further urged participants to be actively engaged in the lecture by listening attentively and asking relevant questions to clear their doubts.
Before the commencement of his lecture and also in his closing remarks, the MS (A) Major General EF Oyinlola thanked the GOC for hosting the event and urged participants to take the lessons seriously, emphasizing the importance of sharing the knowledge learnt with other officers who could not attend due to operational commitments and exigencies. He reiterated the need for officers to be highly disciplined and avoid all acts that may jeopardize their career.
In attendance at the lecture were the Commandant Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna Major General John Ochefu Ochai, GOC 1 Division Major General MLD Saraso, Commanders and Principal Staff Officers from NDA and Headquarters 1 Division and participants drawn from various NA Formations, Units, Establishments and Schools within 1 Division Area of Responsibility.
Highlights of the event were the lecture on career planning in the NA delivered by the MS (A), signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.
MILITARY SECRETARY (ARMY) SENSITISES OFFICERS IN 1 DIVISION AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY ON CAREER PLANNING AND PROSPECTS
Military
ENHANCING NAF COMBAT POWER: CAS LEADS TECHNICAL TEAM TO ITALY FOR M-346 JET, AW-109 TREKKER HELI PROCUREMENT
ENHANCING NAF COMBAT POWER: CAS LEADS TECHNICAL TEAM TO ITALY FOR M-346 JET, AW-109 TREKKER HELI PROCUREMENT
By: Our Reporter
A team of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experts, led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, recently participated in a Programme Management Review Meeting in Italy with Messrs Leonardo S.p.A.
The meeting aimed to finalise arrangements for the NAF’s acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets as well as an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to the 2 already procured by the NAF.
While in Italy, the CAS made a strategic stopover at the Leonardo Headquarters in Rome, where he engaged with top executives to consolidate a long-term partnership between the NAF and the company. He also inspected the first batch of 6 M-346 jets, noting that 3 are nearing completion, and evaluated key support systems required to boost the NAF’s operational readiness.
In the Review Meeting, the CAS received updates on the delivery schedules, confirming that the first 3 units of 24 M-346 aircraft to be built for Nigeria are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026. Meanwhile, with 2 Trekkers already acquired, the additional 10 are expected by early 2026.
The CAS recommended the establishment of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project implementation. He also stressed the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, especially for the M-346 fleet.
As part of the visit, the Leonardo Aircraft Division put on an aerial display to showcase the performance of the M-346 and highlight its advanced features. Capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the M-346 will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s air combat capabilities.
On its part, the AW-109 will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) amongst others.
The M-346 and Trekker acquisitions are key steps towards fleet renewal, in consonance with the CAS Command Philosophy to transform the NAF for greater agility and resilience, with emphasis on the optimization of force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness.
Ends
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