Chief of Army Staff visits Etsu Nupe, reiterated NA’s operational readiness and seeks guidance on security challenges

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday visited the Etsu of Nupe, HRH Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, in Bide town, expressing appreciation for the traditional ruler’s support to the Nigerian Army and seeking guidance on addressing prevailing security challenges across the country.

In his remarks, Lt. Gen. Shaibu draw attention to the ongoing assessment of army deployments in member states, noting the operational gaps and opportunities to infuse additional troops where necessary.

He emphasized the importance of human intelligence in aiding the work of various security commissions and agencies, stressing that intelligence from local communities remains vital for effective operations.

“We are here not only to pay a courtesy visit but also to seek your constant advice on tackling security challenges, particularly in collaboration with the police,” the COAS said. “Your experience from past operations in Liberia, and Multi National Joint forces uniquely positions you to guide the current leadership of the army on security policies and strategies, both in Niger State and nationwide.”

Lt. Gen. Shaibu also acknowledged the role of the Etsu of Nupe’s family in supporting military personnel operating in the area, describing their involvement as critical to navigating the security terrain effectively.

He assured the traditional ruler of the army’s commitment to continuous engagement with community leaders to strengthen operational success.

The COAS also assured on leveraging of technology to counter security challenges bedeviling the country.

Responding, the Etsu of Nupe commended the Nigerian Army for its dedication and service. “We pray that Allah, the Most Gracious, will continue to protect and guide you, granting strength, wisdom, and courage to overcome all challenges,” HRH Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar said.

“The history of the Nigerian Army is rich with experience, and we are confident that under your leadership, the army will continue to excel in all operations, both domestically and internationally.”

He further emphasized the importance of logistics, manpower, training, and technological investments in maintaining operational readiness.

The monarch assured continuous prayers and support for the army and its personnel, noting that the synergy between traditional institutions and security forces is essential for national stability.

The Etsu of Nupe also acknowledged the growth and development of military formations in the region, from battalions to brigades and special forces units, and expressed hope that further expansion would continue to enhance security operations.

Chief of Army Staff visits Etsu Nupe, reiterated NA’s operational readiness and seeks guidance on security challenges

Zulum Inaugurates New GDSS Wandali Ending 30 Years on Temporary Site
…Inspects Hospitals, Schools

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has inaugurated the permanent site of Government Day Secondary School Wandali in Kwaya Kusar Local Government Area. The school had been operating from a temporary site for thirty years.

The new 20-classroom school includes a computer laboratory fully equipped with digital tools.

This is the second school Governor Zulum has commissioned on Tuesday as part of a working visit to southern Borno.

The Governor affirmed his administration’s commitment to revamping the education sector through substantial investment in infrastructure, manpower development, and digital and vocational skills.

“The construction of the permanent site of Government Day Secondary School Wandali fulfils our promise to provide access to education for communities across the state,” Zulum remarked.

He added: “Let me express my administration’s resolve to revamp the education sector in the state. I want to also assure you that all necessary facilities will be provided in the school to enable it to function optimally.”

The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, noted that the school had been operating from temporary accommodation since 1996.

He stated that the school comprises 20 classrooms, a computer laboratory, administrative blocks, and fully equipped laboratories to enable students to learn digital and other skills.

While in Kwaya Kusar, the Governor also inspected General Hospital Kwaya Kusar, where he promised to rehabilitate the facility and restore its electricity supply.

He commended the Medical Officer, an indigene of Rivers State, who has served at the hospital for the past four years, praising his dedication and service.

Earlier, before departing Bayo, Governor Zulum inspected the recently inaugurated Bilingual Boarding School in Briyel, which currently has 430 orphaned pupils enrolled.

He also inspected General Hospital Briyel and assured staff that the challenge of power supply would be addressed.

The Governor was accompanied by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; Hon. Bukar Talba; the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Abdullahi Musa Askira; members of the State Assembly, commissioners, local government chairmen, and other stakeholders from the area.

Zulum Inaugurates New GDSS Wandali Ending 30 Years on Temporary Site
…Inspects Hospitals, Schools

Two killed, two injured as bandits attack Katsina communities

By: Zagazola Makama

Suspected armed bandits have attacked Gidan Alhaji Barau and Gidan Hazo villages in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, leaving two persons dead and two others injured.

Zagazola Makama report that the incident occurred in the early hours of Jan. 6 at about 1:10 a.m.

According to the sources, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Malumfashi received a distress call that armed bandits had invaded the two communities.

“The DPO swiftly mobilised a joint security team to the area, blocked exit routes and engaged the hoodlums in an exchange of gunfire,” the source said.

After the encounter, four victims were discovered to have sustained gunshot injuries.

They were identified as Lawal Tanimu, 30; Umaima Sale, 25; Sani Umar, 30; and Harisu Salisu, 29, all residents of Gidan Alhaji Barau village.

The victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Malumfashi for medical attention.

However, police said two of the victims were certified dead by a medical doctor on arrival, while the remaining two were admitted and were receiving treatment.

The police said efforts were being sustained to track down and arrest the perpetrators of the attack.

They reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to continue to support security agencies with timely information.

Two killed, two injured as bandits attack Katsina communities