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Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa

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Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa

By: Michael Mike

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has disclosed that steps are on to reinvigorate the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in order to tackle terrorism in the West African subregion.

Speaking in Abuja at Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary Foreign Policy Public Lecture, organised by the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN), Tuggar disclosed that Nigeria is leading the push for the reinvigoration of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and in collaboration with other countries of RCOWAS is working at repositioning the regional Standby Force to effectively counter terrorism.

He further assured that Nigeria will continue to promote governance based on constitutional authority, structured transitions and accountability to the population.

Tuggar said: “The Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are the essential building blocks of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). And it is safe to say that the creation of the AfCFTA is now a public convention, as well as a political conviction widely accepted across the globe.

“No RECs, no AfCFTA. However, we cannot sustain growth without peace, stability, and good governance.”

He advised the regional bloc to uphold its commitment to integration, resolving disputes peacefully, maintaining security in the region and democratic governance.

He said: “For peace to reign in ECOWAS and the expanding Sahel, we must continue to proffer our own organic solutions, with the support of partners who are genuinely committed to our developmental aspirations. We must not allow our region to become a zone of global contestation.”

“I wish to reiterate that our foreign policy is always in service to domestic needs and priorities. The Tinubu Doctrine of 4-D Diplomacy – based on Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora – is aligned with the Administration’s 8-point Agenda.

“We must work with regional and international partners to achieve these objectives, which include job creation, industrialisation, infrastructure development and security. We count on your trust and continued cooperation in this important mission.”

He stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is paying close attention to developments in other parts of the world and rigorously analysing them for more efficient implementation of foreign policy.

He said: “The worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan; escalating conflict in the Middle East; recently released report on the Future of European Competitiveness by Mario Draghi, the former President of European Central Bank; as well as the upcoming US Presidential elections, could have a profound effect on global geopolitics, leading to further weaponisation of migration, heightened insecurity and increased competition for influence in Africa.

“We also continue to monitor piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, implementation of sustainable climate and energy transition frameworks, advancements in Artificial Intelligence, the impact of cryptocurrency, as well as ongoing efforts to reform global governance structures and the international financial architecture.

“We are at a critical juncture, and charting a path forward requires continuous consultation with experienced policymakers like yourselves.

“The insights of our retired Ambassadors and senior diplomats are invaluable, as we navigate the evolving challenges in our region and our planet. Your experience has shaped the past and your counsel is essential in shaping the future.” He said.
Also, the former Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff, Gen Martin Luther Agwai, reiterated that over the years, ECOWAS has made tremendous effort to foster democracy and maintain stability.
“From mediating, organizing peaceful elections, our regional body has remained a key player in advancing democracy and peace. We have witnessed ECOWAS respond to unconstitutional changes of government, actively restoring governance and ensuring that the voice of the people is being respected.”

He noted that: “These efforts have not only strengthened democracy, but also showcased our region’s resolve to stand firm on the face of instability.

“That is why in Sahel, where terrorism, transnational crime, and humanitarian crises continue to threaten regional stability, ECOWAS, in collaboration with African Union and other international partners, have been in the forefront and in the effort to promote African-led solutions to these crises.

“By coordinating security initiatives, deploying peacekeepers and peacekeeping missions, and facilitating dialogue, our region is taking concrete steps to ensure that the Sahel remains part of a stable and prosperous West Africa. He said.

The Chairman of ARCAN, Ambassador Joe Keshi, in his welcome address, noted that one of the most pressing challenges facing ECOWAS is regional security.

He added that the rise of terrorist groups and cross-border conflicts has threatened stability and undermined economic development.

“In response, ECOWAS has strengthened its security architecture, including the establishment of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group.”

“The security challenges facing our region require collective action and coordination. ECOWAS must continue to work closely with member states, international partners, and civil society to address these concerns.”
“ECOWAS’ economic integration efforts must prioritize inclusivity and equity. We must ensure that the benefits of regional cooperation are shared equitably among member states and citizens.”

Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa

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Troops Repel Bandit Attack on Mada, Kill Four in Zamfara

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Troops Repel Bandit Attack on Mada, Kill Four in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation FANSAR YANMA, in collaboration with local vigilantes, repelled another attack by bandits on Mada town in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State, killing four of the assailants.

The attack, which occurred at about 10 p.m. on Friday, was the latest in a series of retaliatory assaults on the town by bandits following the killing of a notorious kingpin in the area.

A security source told Zagazola Makama that the troops, acting on intelligence, swiftly engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into the forest with gunshot wounds.

“The bandits stormed the town in an attempt to unleash terror, but the security forces and vigilantes responded effectively. We neutralized four of them, while others escaped with injuries,” the source said.

A resident identified as Naziru Bakanike Mada sustained a gunshot wound on his shoulder during the confrontation and was rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

Zagazola report that Friday’s attack marked at least the fourth attempt by the bandits to overrun Mada in revenge for the killing of notorious bandit leader, Alhaji Sani Dan Garin Bawo, by security forces in an earlier military operation.

Since March 11, to date, fighters loyal to neutralized kingpin headed bandits Dogo Hamza have carried out a large-scale retaliatory attack on Mada. However, security forces have consistently repelled their incursions, inflicting heavy casualties on them.

“Mada is their burial ground, let them keep coming and continue trying their luck and we shall continue sending them to their maker,”said a military official.

Troops Repel Bandit Attack on Mada, Kill Four in Zamfara

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Army Troops Neutralize 12 Terrorists including a Bandit kingpin Kachallah Dogo in Katsina, capture 7 motorcycles

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Army Troops Neutralize 12 Terrorists including a Bandit kingpin Kachallah Dogo in Katsina, capture 7 motorcycles

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA conducting a fighting patrol in Maigora village, Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State, have successfully neutralized 12 terrorists and capturing multiple motorcycles used by the assailants.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that that the terrorists were neutralized on Friday when the armed bandits stormed the village around 12:30 p.m.

However, troops in the vicinity swiftly responded, engaging the attackers in a firefight that forced them to withdraw into nearby bushes.

In the initial encounter, troops neutralized five bandits and seized two motorcycles. During a follow-up operation, the fleeing bandits regrouped and launched a counterattack on the troops, who decisively repelled them and pursued them into the hills.

The security forces then engaged the retreating bandits with mortar fire, killing seven more and scattering the remaining fighters.

Further exploitation of the area led to the capture of seven additional motorcycles belonging to the terrorists.

Battle damaged assessments indicated that a key bandit leader, identified as Malum, sustained gunshot wounds during the engagement.

Meanwhile, sources confirmed that at least 12 bandits were buried on Friday evening, including a senior commander known as Dogo, who was neutralized during the operation.

As of Friday morning, security operatives have maintained dominance in the area to prevent any further incursion by the bandits.

Army Troops Neutralize 12 Terrorists including a Bandit kingpin Kachallah Dogo in Katsina, capture 7 motorcycles

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Troops Rescue Two Kidnapped Girls in Plateau, Pursue Fleeing Suspects

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Troops Rescue Two Kidnapped Girls in Plateau, Pursue Fleeing Suspects

Troops of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, under Operation Safe Haven have rescued two kidnapped victims in the outskirts of Josho Village, Daffo District, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out at about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday following credible intelligence on the location of the victims.

Upon sighting the troops, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the bush. A search of their hideout led to the rescue of two female victims, identified as 11-year-old Nanbam Adamu and Dorcas Wantu, both from Mbor Village in Mushere District, Bokkos LGA.

The victims were debriefed and handed over to their uncle, Mr. Caleb Mantau, to reunite them with their families.

Meanwhile, troops have launched a follow-up operation to track down and neutralize the fleeing kidnappers.

Troops Rescue Two Kidnapped Girls in Plateau, Pursue Fleeing Suspects

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