NAF AIRSTRIKES NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF BANDITS HIBERNATING AT ALAWA FOREST IN SHIRORO LGA OF NIGER STATE

By: Olusola F Akinboyewa

The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (AC OPFY) has recorded another significant achievement in its counter-terrorism campaign, neutralising scores of bandits and dismantling their logistics base at Alawa Forest in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. This operation, conducted on 21 January 2025, was based on credible intelligence and follow-up confirmatory aerial surveillance efforts which indicated an influx of armed terrorists into the forest. These criminals were linked to widespread violence, including two Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks on 19 December 2024 in Bassa, Shiroro LGA, which claimed several innocent lives.

In response, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched a three-day sustained air operation, code-named KONAN DAJI, to degrade the terrorists’ capabilities and render the forest unhabitable for them. To this end, AC OPFY dispatched a formation of fighter aircraft to execute air interdiction missions in the area. Upon arrival, the jets swiftly engaged the identified targets with precision strikes, neutralising numerous armed fighters and destroying their logistics base, as confirmed by multiple secondary explosions.

The NAF, in close coordination with ground forces, remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining operational dominance across the region. Sustained efforts are underway to eliminate all criminal elements from Alawa Forest and surrounding areas, ensuring lasting peace and security for communities in Niger State and beyond.

NAF AIRSTRIKES NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF BANDITS HIBERNATING AT ALAWA FOREST IN SHIRORO LGA OF NIGER STATE

“GOODBYES ARE NOT THE END, BUT THE BEGINNING OF NEW JOURNEYS,” SAYS MAJOR GENERAL MAINA………as He Hands Over to Major General UM Alkali, the 7th Commandant of AWCN

By: Hashimu Saad

The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) witnessed a memorable leadership transition on 22 January 2025, as Major General Ishaya Maina handed over the leadership to Major General Umar Mohammed Alkali, the 7th Commandant of the institution. The ceremony, held at the College Conference Room in Asokoro, Abuja, marked the end of an impactful tenure for Maj Gen Maina and the beginning of a new chapter for AWCN.

In his valedictory address, Maj Gen Maina reflected on his tenure, which began on 30 June 2023, describing it as a challenging yet rewarding journey. Expressing gratitude, he acknowledged the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for granting him the opportunity to contribute to training operational-level leaders in line with the COAS’s Command Philosophy:

“To consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”

Maj Gen Maina extended his appreciation to the College Governing Council, the Chief of Training (Army), and other Army Headquarters Principal Staff Officers for their critical support, which enabled AWCN to fulfill its mission of producing well-trained, educated, and inspired operational leaders for the Nigerian Army.

Addressing the College staff, he urged them to offer the same unwavering support to the incoming Commandant, Major General Umar Mohammed Alkali.

In his remarks, Maj Gen Alkali expressed his deep appreciation for the trust reposed in him to lead such a prestigious institution. He pledged to continue building on the foundation laid by his predecessors, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, innovation, and a forward-looking approach.

“The Army War College Nigeria holds a strategic role in shaping the operational leadership of our Army. I am committed to ensuring that we sustain and enhance the standards of excellence that this institution is known for. Together, we will forge new paths, introduce cutting-edge methodologies, and strive for transformative outcomes in the training and education of our operational leaders.”

He called on the faculty and staff to maintain their dedication and professionalism, as their contributions are vital to achieving the College’s objectives.

The event featured several key moments, including a tour of the College facilities, the signing of handing-over notes, the ceremonial transfer of the College flag, the presentation of souvenir, and a group photograph.

As he bid farewell, Maj Gen Maina left the audience with an inspiring message: “Goodbyes are not the end, but the beginning of new journeys.”

“GOODBYES ARE NOT THE END, BUT THE BEGINNING OF NEW JOURNEYS,” SAYS MAJOR GENERAL MAINA………as He Hands Over to Major General UM Alkali, the 7th Commandant of AWCN

FORMER CDS, GENERAL IRABOR CHARGES NIGERIAN ARMY TO UPHOLD DEMOCRATIC VALUES AND NATIONAL SECURITY

By: Our Reporter

The former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (Retired), has called on personnel of the Nigerian Army (NA) to remain steadfast in upholding their constitutional responsibilities and democratic values while synergizing with other security agencies to address the nation’s security challenges. He made this appeal on Saturday, 18 January 2025, during the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024 held at the Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.

General Irabor who was the Special Guest of Honour (SGoH), commended the sacrifices and dedication of personnel, encouraging them to remain vigilant and focused on their duties. He highlighted the richness and cultural diversity of Nigerian soldiers which he described as source of strength for effectiveness.

General Irabor averred that NA has a long history of heritage and achievements with documented victories in both World Wars, peacekeeping operations, and internal security operations across the country. General Irabor noted that the Army has made significant contributions to national growth and development, beyond their traditional defence and security duties through the dedication and sacrifices of military personnel, some of whom have paid the supreme price through service to the nation.

He urged the Army to continue synergizing with other security agencies, respect rules of law, and subordinate to civil authority. The former CDS commemorate with the officers and soldiers of the Army and urged them to remain focus as the nation looks upto the NA to keep upholding democratic values.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede emphasized the significance of WASA as a platform to celebrate national heritage and promote unity, camaraderie and esprit de corps among personnel and their families. The COAS stated further that the event also avails the command the opportunity to thank God and appreciate personnel for their individual and collective contributions peace and security of the citizens.

The COAS posited that WASA showcases the Nigerian Army’s diverse ethnic heritage, rich cultural traditions, extensive geographical representation, and huge expectations of Nigerians in NA’s commitment to addressing security challenges.

The Army Chief appreciated the continued support and cooperation of other security and sister agencies in the execution of various operations, assuring that the NA will continue to foster stronger partnerships to enhance collective capacity to address the nation’s security challenges.

The Army Chief further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.

Earlier in his welcome address, Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Koko Isoni recalled the tradition of WASA dated back to the era of the second World War, during which Officers, soldiers and their families come together to socialize in a relaxed mood to mark the end of the year’s activities.

He affirmed that the event also serves as a vehicle to enhance espirit de corps and the spirit of brotherliness within the NA.

The WASA is an annual event that brings together military personnel and their families to promote unity, camaraderie, and esprit de corps.

This year’s event was marked by various activities including Tug of War, Female Soldiers Bike Display, Band display, presentation of awards, Mega Suya/Nigerian Tradition Cuisine Competition, cultural performances showcasing Nigeria cultural diversity and lightening of burn fire by the SGoH.

FORMER CDS, GENERAL IRABOR CHARGES NIGERIAN ARMY TO UPHOLD DEMOCRATIC VALUES AND NATIONAL SECURITY