Civilian JTF operative shoots man in Katsina, arrested

By: Zagazola Makama

A 37-year-old member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) has been arrested after shooting a man during an altercation in Yantumaki town, Katsina State.

Sources said that the incident occurred on Feb. 9 at about 7:30 p.m.

According to the sources, the Civilian JTF operative, Musa Idi, reportedly shot 55-year-old Ummaru Maulaye on his right leg during a confrontation, causing a fracture.

“The incident incited youths in the town who mobilized in an attempt to breach the peace. The DPO promptly responded to pacify the situation,” the sources said.

The victim was taken to the General Hospital in Dutsin-Ma and is currently receiving treatment. The suspect has been taken into custody, and the rifle used in the incident was recovered.

Civilian JTF operative shoots man in Katsina, arrested

Troops intercept ISWAP terrorists stealing school roofing in Yobe, one injured

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 159 Military Battalion, Kanamma, have intercepted suspected ISWAP terrorists attempting to steal roofing zinc from Ngamma Primary School in Ngamma village, Yunusari Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Zagazola learnt that the incident occurred on Feb. 9 at about 9:00 p.m., when unknown gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons invaded the school. They reportedly mobilized some community youths to assist in removing the roofing zinc.

Personnel of 159 Military Battalion were swiftly deployed to the scene.

While engaging the insurgents, a flying bullet injured one Umar Maigari, a 19-year-old resident of the village, who sustained a gunshot wound on his left leg,” the sources said.

The victim was rushed to Specialist Hospital, Geidam, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding to care.

The situation has been brought under control, with monitoring and intelligence operations ongoing to prevent further attacks.

Troops intercept ISWAP terrorists stealing school roofing in Yobe, one injured

Army Chief tasks 18 brigade troops on intensified operations, approves new accommodation

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has approved the construction of additional accommodation and the renovation of administrative buildings at the Headquarters of 18 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Niger State, as part of measures to improve troop welfare and operational efficiency.

Shaibu made the disclosure on Tuesday while addressing officers and soldiers of the brigade during an operational visit to the formation.

The Army Chief said the decision followed a detailed briefing by the brigade and divisional commanders, who highlighted accommodation and infrastructure challenges affecting personnel at the headquarters.

“I have listened to the briefing from your commanders, particularly on the challenges you are facing in terms of accommodation.

“We have approved the construction of additional accommodation, as well as the renovation and remodification of some of your administrative blocks, to ameliorate these challenges,” he said.

Shaibu stressed that troop welfare and improved working conditions were critical to morale, discipline and operational effectiveness, adding that the army leadership remained committed to providing a conducive environment for soldiers and their families.

He said the welfare interventions would also serve as a force multiplier as the Nigerian Army intensified offensive operations against bandits and other criminal elements operating within the brigade’s area of responsibility.

“Most importantly, the conduct of operations to rid this area of marauding bandits and miscreants will be strengthened.

“We are going to enhance the capabilities of this brigade to conduct more offensive operations, which you will be participating in,” the COAS said.

Shaibu charged the troops to remain combat-ready and mentally prepared for sustained operations, reminding them that offensive action remained the core duty of soldiering.

“As soldiers, once the enabling environment and combat enablers are provided, you must go out and do what soldiers are trained to do.

“You have the training, you have the experience, and you have the commanders who will lead you to carry out the operations you are supposed to do,” he said.

The army chief urged the soldiers to maintain discipline and professionalism, advising them to listen to their officers and commanders in the conduct of operations.

“Listen to your officers. They will lead you well to do the operations you are supposed to do,” he added.

Shaibu expressed appreciation to the troops for their sacrifices and commitment in safeguarding lives and property, acknowledging the support and resilience of their families.

“I appreciate all of you, and I appreciate your families. We are committed to ensuring that your barracks environment is more comfortable for you,” he said.

The COAS expressed confidence in the ability of 18 Brigade to deliver on its mandate, assuring the personnel of continuous support from the army leadership as operations are intensified to restore lasting peace and security in Niger State and adjoining areas.

He later invited questions from the troops, urging them to remain focused, disciplined and resolute in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

Army Chief tasks 18 brigade troops on intensified operations, approves new accommodation