Troops neutralise several terrorists in ambush operation in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, have neutralised several Boko Haram terrorists during an ambush operation in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources said the incident occurred at about 2:33 a.m. on April 13 when an ambush team of 202 Battalion deployed at Bravo Kilo sighted a terrorist crossing the parapet at a defensive company location.

According to the sources, the troops engaged and neutralised five of the suspect on sight.

The sources added that the operation is part of ongoing clearance and ambush missions aimed at denying terrorists freedom of movement in the North-East theatre.

Troops neutralise several terrorists in ambush operation in Borno

Troops arrest suspected Boko Haram member in Yobe

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 233 Battalion have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS member within the Damaturu Military Cantonment in Yobe State.

Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 11:00 p.m. on April 12 between Charlie 2 and Charlie 3 areas of the cantonment in Damaturu Local Government Area.

According to the sources, troops recovered a bag containing clothes and a SIM card from the suspect.

They added that during preliminary investigation, the suspect claimed he was heading to Potiskum and identified himself as an almajiri from the 1000 Area of Maiduguri.

The sources, however, noted that his statements were incoherent, while further physical examination reportedly revealed a rifle sling mark on his shoulder, raising further suspicion.

They said the suspect is currently in custody for further investigation and necessary action.

Troops arrest suspected Boko Haram member in Yobe

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Collaboration, Innovation at AFRIDEX 2026

By: Michael Mike

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to inter-agency collaboration, innovation, and national development during a high-level engagement with organisers of the African International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026.

The Minister made this known while receiving Maj. Gen. Umar Alkali and his delegation on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

Describing AFRIDEX as “a very special programme,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that meaningful progress within Nigeria’s defence and security architecture can only be achieved through collaboration rather than isolated efforts. He stressed the need for institutions to embrace openness, synergy, and strategic partnerships to maximise national impact and drive sustainable development.

He commended the AFRIDEX initiative as a critical platform for both emerging and established innovators, particularly Nigerian youths who continue to demonstrate exceptional ingenuity in digital and cybersecurity sectors. According to the Minister, providing visibility for such talents is essential for strengthening national pride, advancing economic growth, and enhancing global competitiveness.

Highlighting the central role of research in national development, Tunji-Ojo called for stronger linkages between innovation and market opportunities. He noted that creating platforms where innovators, manufacturers, and investors can interact is key to translating research into tangible economic value.

Encouraging the organisers, the Minister advised that AFRIDEX should be institutionalised as an annual event. While acknowledging that the maiden edition may present challenges, he noted that it would also offer valuable lessons to improve future editions. He further called for deeper collaboration among security and intelligence agencies, stressing that “this is not a time for territorial thinking, but for collective progress.”

Reaffirming the Ministry’s support, he described AFRIDEX as an initiative that represents “the future, not just the present,” adding that sustained efforts would attract international participation and promote the growth of indigenous industries.

On visa facilitation, the Minister acknowledged ongoing improvements but recommended the establishment of a dedicated support desk to ensure seamless entry processes for the expected influx of international participants.

Earlier, Maj. Gen. Alkali expressed appreciation to the Minister for the audience and commended his continued support for capacity building and inter-agency cooperation. He formally introduced AFRIDEX as a premier global defence and security exhibition scheduled to hold from October 26–29, 2026, at Eko Atlantic City.

Organised with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria and hosted by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the event is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators. The exhibition will showcase cutting-edge solutions across land, air, maritime, space, and cyber domains, with over 30,000 international participants and 500 exhibitors anticipated.

Alkali also highlighted the critical role of the Ministry of Interior in ensuring the success of the event, particularly in the areas of security coordination and visa facilitation. He formally invited the Honourable Minister to participate and requested the Ministry’s support in promoting AFRIDEX through its platforms, as well as encouraging participation from agencies under its supervision.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to strategic partnership and a unified vision of positioning Nigeria as a global hub for defence innovation and security solutions.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Collaboration, Innovation at AFRIDEX 2026