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HMOD AFFIRMS FG’S COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING NAF’S OPERATIONAL CAPACITY TO COMBAT EMERGING THREATS

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HMOD AFFIRMS FG’S COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING NAF’S OPERATIONAL CAPACITY TO COMBAT EMERGING THREATS

By: Olusola F Akinboyewa

The Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar mni, has affirmed the commitment of the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to bolstering the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) towards effectively addressing emerging security threats. This was revealed by the HMOD, during the 2024 NAF Training, Operations and Safety Seminar which commenced today, 4 December 2024, at the NAF Officers Mess and Suites in Kado, Abuja.

The HMOD, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Kana mni, also commended the NAF’s leadership under Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar for its proactive posture and decisive action in countering threats such as insurgency, terrorism and banditry through effective utilization of newly acquired assets and platforms. He noted the remarkable progress achieved by the NAF and other defence and security agencies in restoring stability to the Northeast and other parts of the country, attributing this success to the synergy between deliberate mission-oriented training and effective operational execution.

Speaking further, the HMOD highlighted the importance of the Seminar to sustaining the gains in enhancing Nigeria’s security. According to him, “the Northeastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. All these would not have been possible if not for the constant need to assess performance and identify shortcomings in our operational activities and I believe this is what gave birth to a forum like this, where we would rub minds and examine areas that require improvement”.

The CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the NAF, describing the current period as a “Golden Era” for the Service. He highlighted significant advancements under the Tinubu administration, including the acquisition of 12 advanced aircraft over the past year, such as KA-360i and DA-62 planes, as well as T-129 ATAK and AW-109 Trekker helicopters. Additionally, the CAS announced forthcoming deliveries of various high-performance platforms, including M-346FA jets, CASA-295 aircraft, and AH-1Z attack helicopters. He also noted the procurement of 12 pre-owned Alpha Jets from the French Air Force, with 6 to be operationally restored and 6 allocated for spare parts. These developments underscore the NAF’s enhanced operational readiness and modernization efforts. Accordingly, the CAS urged all participants at the Seminar to be fully engaged, absorb the lessons to be shared and apply them rigorously in their respective areas of responsibility. “Together, we can strengthen the Training, Operations as well as Safety posture of the NAF, thereby enhancing our ability to protect the integrity of the Nigerian Airspace, as we serve our Great Nation”, he added.

The Chief of Training and Operations, Air Vice Marshal FO Edosa, while delivering the training highlights before the winging of 28 new NAF pilots and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operators, informed of significant strides in fleet expansion and pilot training under the leadership of Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar. He added that with 14 new platforms delivered and 50 more expected soon, the need for increased skilled aircrew cannot be overemphasized. The pilots and UAV operators were recognized for completing rigorous courses, including fighter, helicopter, and UAV pilot training conducted in Nigeria, Egypt, and the United States. According to him, the training programs focused on advanced tactical, operational, and safety skills to enhance the NAF’s readiness for contemporary security challenges.

The Seminar, themed “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats,” emphasises the critical role of safety, advanced training, and innovation in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges. Scheduled to last two days, the 2024 NAF Training, Operations, and Safety Seminar has brought together experts to deliberate on key strategies to optimize NAF operations and enhance safety measures.

Day-One of the event featured several significant activities, including the winging of 28 newly trained NAF pilots and the presentation of awards for gallantry and exceptional performance to deserving personnel. Additionally, key milestones were achieved, such as the signing of reviewed memoranda of understanding between the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), as well as between the NAF and Hybrid HSE. The event also witnessed the historic presentation of an accreditation certificate as an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) to the Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC) by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This milestone achievement by the NAF has repositioned ATSTC for delivery of world-class capacity development not only for NAF and Nigeria’s civil aviation sector, but also for international partners.

The Training, Operations and Safety Seminar 2024 reinforces the NAF’s commitment to operational excellence and safety as well as its resolve to decisively address evolving threats to national security.

HMOD AFFIRMS FG’S COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING NAF’S OPERATIONAL CAPACITY TO COMBAT EMERGING THREATS

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Armed Men Go on Rampage in Edo, Attack National Park Security Post and Destroy Property Following Hunter’s Death

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Armed Men Go on Rampage in Edo, Attack National Park Security Post and Destroy Property Following Hunter’s Death

By: Zagazola Makama

Armed men reportedly went on a rampage in Edo State, attacking a security post at the National Party and destroying several properties in retaliation for the death of a local hunter, Timi Jimoh.

The body of the deceased hunter, Jimoh, was found with a single barrel gun nearby and signs of violence and burns on his body.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on March 31, 2025, when a group of armed individuals, believed to be Ijaw youths from Inikorogha, launched a violent attack on a security post near Okomu National Park.

The group, armed with dangerous weapons, destroyed various properties, including houses, mattresses, doors, windows, plantain crops, and a water tank. This act of destruction came in response to the death of Jimoh, who was found dead on March 29, 2025, with visible signs of violence on his body.

The security outfit was targeted by the attackers in a bid for revenge. Despite the chaos, the armed group fled the scene before law enforcement could intervene.

A Police sources said that the authorities have yet to determine the full circumstances surrounding his death, and investigations are ongoing.

According to him, the property destruction has been documented and investigations are underway to track down those responsible.

Armed Men Go on Rampage in Edo, Attack National Park Security Post and Destroy Property Following Hunter’s Death

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National Unity, Peaceful Coexistence Must Be Our Gift To One Another – VP Shettima

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National Unity, Peaceful Coexistence Must Be Our Gift To One Another - VP Shettima

National Unity, Peaceful Coexistence Must Be Our Gift To One Another – VP Shettima

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to embrace unity, peaceful coexistence, and tolerance as key pillars for national progress, drawing from the lessons of Ramadan.

The Vice President also called on everyone to support the administration’s ongoing economic reforms, assuring that short-term difficulties would yield long-term benefits for the country.

Speaking on Monday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, during a luncheon with Borno State elders and his schoolmates in celebration of Eid-El-Fitr, the Vice President, who spoke through the member representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis, said there was a need for continued harmony among citizens.

“We thank the Almighty Allah for sparing our lives to witness this Eid-El-Fitr. I wish to also say that we should all perfect, maintain, and build on the sense of unity that exists among us for our collective gain and progress as a gift for one another.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to implementing policies that will create sustainable development for all Nigerians. Just as Ramadan teaches endurance, we ask for your continued patience as these necessary reforms take root and bear fruit,” he said.

The Vice President, who arrived in his home state on Sunday evening, urged Nigerians to continue embodying the spiritual lessons gained during Ramadan as a pathway to national development.

“Peaceful coexistence is very important and we should not relent in maintaining that virtue. It will go a long way in bringing about the development of ourselves and the nation,” he said.

VP Shettima enjoined the citizens of Borno State and Nigerians in general to always maintain traits of humility and communal living in line with the teachings of the Holy books, values he described as foundational to national progress.

Also speaking, Senator representing Borno Central Senatorial District, Kaka Shehu Lawan, SAN, prayed for lasting peace in Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians to rally round President Tinubu as the father of the nation, stressing that the President needs the prayers and support of Nigerians, as he implements the good policies he has for the improvement of the economy and overall development of Nigeria.

The Senator urged his constituents to imbibe the attributes of Vice President Kashim Shettima, saying, “His Excellency the Vice President is an epitome of leadership, sacrifice, resilience, integrity, perseverance and above all courage.

“So, I will like my constituents and indeed people of Borno State and Nigerians at large to emulate his virtues. He is a leader and we are proud of his achievements.”

The lawmaker thanked the Vice President for hosting his schoolmates and elders of Borno State in his usual magnanimity and demonstration of love.

“In his usual show of love every festive period, the Vice President extends hands of fellowship to all and sundry from Maiduguri Metropolitan Council to Borno Central District and by extension the entire state” he said.

Also, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security,Senator Abubakar Kyari, commended the Vice President for his show of love, especially to the needy, despite his tight schedule.

“When he is in Abuja, his schedule is overwhelming, yet he always finds time for his people. Seeing the joyful faces of his classmates, elders, and other guests at this event is a testament to his character,” Kyari noted.
The Agric Minister said the Vice President’s humility has endeared him to his people, adding that he is a man of good character and extreme humility.

Earlier, Chairman of the Borno State Elders Forum, Alhaji Gambo Gubio, expressed appreciation for the Vice President’s hospitality and assured him of continued prayers for success in his duties.

Among the dignitaries present were the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijjani, and several of VP Shettima’s former classmates and neighbours in Maiduguri.
End

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SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar

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SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar

By: Our Reporter

The Secretary to Borno State Government (SSG), Hon. Bukar Tijjani, and the Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, led a government delegation to observe the two raka’at Eid prayers at Ramat Square Eid ground.

This was in accordance with the directive of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who is currently in Mecca for a spiritual exercise.

The Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur was unable to attend as he is in mourning following the passing of his elder brother, Mai Aliyu Usman Kadafur, in Biu town.

The Eid prayer marks the conclusion of the sacred month of Ramadan, a period dedicated to spiritual blessings and devotion.

Accompanying the SSG and the senator were former deputy governor, Hon Usman Mamman Ndurkwa, the State Head of Service, Dr Muhammad Aminu Ghuluze, commissioners, special advisers, heads of government agencies, stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress (APC), heads of security agencies, and members of the business community.

His Royal Highness, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi, also led members of Borno Emirate Council to attend the prayers.

In a sermon shortly after the prayers, the Imam Idaini of Borno, Imam Shettima Mamman Saleh, urged Muslim faithful to apply the lessons learned during the Ramadan fast to foster harmonious relationships and peaceful coexistence among diverse groups across the country.

He further described Eid al-Fitr as a period of self-reflection and reassessment of the values inculcated during the holy month.

The Imam encouraged Muslims to give alms to the needy, known as Zakatul Fitr, and to observe six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal to earn Allah’s blessings and rewards.

Delivering the governor’s message shortly after the eid prayers at the Government House, Hon. Bukar Tijjani expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for witnessing a hitch free sallah celebration.

He called on people of the state to continue to support Zulum’s administration, stressing the need for a peaceful and harmonious relationship.

In a remark, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan said the governor is in Saudi Arabia to offer special prayers for peace and prosperity to continue to reign in the state and the country at large.

He extended Governor Zulum’s Sallah message, who directed them to take part in all activities lined up for the eid celebration.

The delegation later proceeded to the Shehu of Borno’s palace, where the royal father staged a durbar, displaying the rich cultural heritage of the people of Borno and a sign that peace has returned to the state

In a message, Shehu Abubakar Garbai Elkanemi lauded governor Zulum for his relentless effort towards the restoration of peace in the state.

He commended the federal government for the reconstruction and expansion of the Alau dam and called for prayers to avert the reoccurrence of last year’s flood disaster and for restoration of sustainable peace in the state.

SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar

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