Military
COAS urges stronger unit training and weapons proficiency to boost operational readiness
COAS urges stronger unit training and weapons proficiency to boost operational readiness
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has urged Nigerian Army personnel to intensify unit-level training, emphasising weapons handling, tactical proficiency, and operational readiness to enhance combat effectiveness.
Addressing troops of 82 Division in Enugu on Thursday, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu highlighted the critical role of senior non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and unit leaders in preparing soldiers for active operations and future security challenges.
Shaibu commended troops deployed in Enugu State for their professionalism during the recently concluded Anambra State elections, urging them to continue upholding Army core values, obey lawful orders, and exercise due diligence in all assigned tasks.
He congratulated the division for ensuring the successful conduct of the elections, noting that the outcome would not have been possible without their discipline and commitment.
“Are you promising me you will uphold that?” the COAS asked, receiving affirmations from the troops.
The COAS also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to the welfare of all personnel, highlighting the “soldier-first” concept. He assured that the well-being of every officer and soldier would be properly safeguarded, and urged troops to remain resolute and focused in the execution of their missions.
The COAS urged troops to remain committed and resolute in the execution of all missions, highlighting the direct impact of their presence on maintaining security and enabling normal civic activities.
He encouraged soldiers to take pride in their work, noting that their dedication directly contributes to maintaining operational effectiveness and security stability.
“Operational readiness is more than mere presence; it is about consistent unit training, basic tactics, and supervision at every level,” he said. “Senior NCOs must ensure that all soldiers are thoroughly trained on the fundamentals of weapon handling, minor tactics, and operational principles.”
The COAS specifically stressed the importance of weapons proficiency, instructing troops to know the effective ranges of their arms, including the SLR and AK-47.
“If you see an enemy at 300 or 400 metres, you should be able to neutralise them. This is not theoretical; it is what makes a soldier effective in combat,” he added.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu also encouraged officers and NCOs to supervise closely, mentor younger soldiers, and instil discipline and operational competence at the unit level.
He pointed out the pivotal role of NCOs in ensuring that soldiers are capable of responding decisively during crises or skirmishes.
“You are the key link in preparing soldiers for operations. Take unit training very seriously. Your supervision determines the operational effectiveness of your troops,” he said, seeking and receiving verbal commitments from all senior NCOs and young officers present.
The COAS further reiterated the Army’s “soldier-first” philosophy, stressing that the welfare of officers and soldiers would continue to be a priority, ensuring that personnel remain motivated and mission-ready.
The RSM Convention, attended by senior officers, Regimental Sergeant Majors, formation commanders, and representatives from other security agencies, featured interactive lectures and practical sessions designed to strengthen regimental standards, leadership, discipline, and operational efficiency.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu said the insights and best practices shared at the convention should be taken back to individual units to sustain combat readiness, improve morale, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.
He noted that all enablers have been provided to the troops and urged them to ensure professionalism in their operations while assuring them that their welfare will be well taken care of.
COAS urges stronger unit training and weapons proficiency to boost operational readiness
Troops arrest two suspected drug peddlers in Abia raid
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation UDO KA have arrested two suspected drug peddlers during a raid in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Security sources disclosed that the operation was conducted at about 6:00 p.m. on March 14 by troops of the 145 Battalion (Rear) under Operation Crush, Sector 1.
According to the sources, the troops carried out a targeted raid on a suspected drug peddlers’ hideout located along Bende Road following credible intelligence about illicit drug activities in the area.
During the operation, two suspects were apprehended while in possession of substances suspected to be psychotropic drugs.
The troops recovered the exhibits at the scene and secured the area before concluding the operation.
Military authorities said the suspects and the recovered items had been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) command in Umuahia for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Security officials noted that the operation formed part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb criminal activities within the state.
They reiterated the commitment of troops to sustain intelligence-driven operations in collaboration with relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe and secure environment for residents
Troops arrest two suspected drug peddlers in Abia raid
Troops rescue six kidnapped victims after gun battle with terrorists in Kaduna
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the 1 Division Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued six kidnapped victims after engaging suspected terrorists in a gun battle in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the rescue operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of armed terrorists suspected to be transporting abducted victims through forest routes in the area.
According to the sources, troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gurara, under Sub-Sector 4 of Operation FANSAN YANMA, responded swiftly to the intelligence at about 7 a.m. on March 14.
The troops subsequently laid an ambush at a suspected crossing point used by the terrorists around Sabon Kurutu Village in Kachia LGA.
“During the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a fierce gun battle. The criminals, overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the troops, fled into the surrounding bush, abandoning some items,” the source said.
Following the engagement, troops combed the general area and successfully rescued six kidnapped victims. However, a seventh victim, a minor, was reported to have died during the crossfire between the troops and the fleeing terrorists.
Troops also recovered three motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists during the movement of the abducted victims.
Preliminary interrogation of the rescued victims revealed that they were abducted earlier on March 14 from Janjala Village in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The victims said they had been moved through forest routes by the terrorists before the troops intercepted them.
The rescued victims and the body of the deceased minor were evacuated to Katari Hospital for medical attention and other necessary procedures.
Military sources said families of the rescued victims had been contacted.
The Military said the troops 1 Division Operation FANSAN YANMA and other task force has continued sustained offensives and intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks across the North-West region.
Troops rescue six kidnapped victims after gun battle with terrorists in Kaduna
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
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