Military
Nigeria, Others to Reinvigorate MNJTF to Tackle Terrorism in West Africa
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
Military
Military Air Interdiction Neutralizes Scores, Decimates Terrorist Gathering and Destroy Gun Truck in Borno
Military Air Interdiction Neutralizes Scores, Decimates Terrorist Gathering and Destroy Gun Truck in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Military in Operation HADIN KAI has recorded another significant success against terrorist elements in Borno State, neutralising scores of insurgents and destroying a gun truck during a precision air interdiction mission.
Military sources disclosed that the operation was carried out on June 4 following credible intelligence and aerial surveillance over the Madamari general area in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the sources, an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, detected a group of about 15 terrorists who had dismounted from a gun truck and assembled under a tree within the target area.
Upon positive identification and confirmation of hostile activity, the platform designated the target and guided a strike aircraft onto the location.
“The strike aircraft executed a precise engagement on the terrorist gathering, resulting in the neutralisation of all the terrorists at the location,” the source said.
In a follow-up strike, the ISR platform tracked and designated the terrorists’ gun truck, which was subsequently destroyed by precision munitions. Four additional terrorists were neutralised in the process.
Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) conducted after the operation revealed that surviving terrorists in the vicinity were seen fleeing in different directions in an attempt to evade further air strikes, indicating the effectiveness of the engagement.
The sources said that the successful operation is part of sustained air offensives aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, disrupting their freedom of movement and denying them safe havens across the North-East theatre.
Military high command at Operation HADIN KAI reiterated their commitment to maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist elements and their logistics networks, in its ongoing clearance operations across the region.
Military Air Interdiction Neutralizes Scores, Decimates Terrorist Gathering and Destroy Gun Truck in Borno
Military
Force Commander OPWS Visits Boundary Area Between Nasarawa and Kaduna States, Reviews Security Measures
Force Commander OPWS Visits Boundary Area Between Nasarawa and Kaduna States, Reviews Security Measures
By: Zagazola Makama
The Force Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Maj.-Gen. K.M. Gara, on Friday visited the boundary area between Nasarawa and Kaduna States to assess the security situation and strengthen operational coordination along the Akwanga–Kaduna highway corridor.
Security sources said the visit, which took place at about 12:42 p.m. on June 5, also included the Commander of the Garrison, Brig.-Gen. D.C. Nwakonobi, and the Nasarawa State Police Area Commander, DCP S. Alli.
According to the sources, the team inspected operational deployments and received briefings on the security situation and combat readiness of troops from the Sub-Sector 71 Commander under Operation Safe Haven.
The sources added that the visit was aimed at assessing the highway axis between Akwanga and the boundary between Nasarawa and Kaduna States, with a view to strengthening measures against persistent kidnapping incidents along the route.
They noted that the exercise also sought to enhance synergy between Operation Safe Haven and Operation Whirl Stroke in addressing insecurity in the general area.
“The visit was part of ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping along major highways and improve inter-agency coordination,” the sources said.
The sources further confirmed that the visit was conducted peacefully without any security incident.
They added that routine patrols were ongoing across the Joint Operations Area to protect schools, churches and other critical national infrastructure.
Troops’ morale and operational efficiency, the sources said, remained satisfactory across the theatre.
Force Commander OPWS Visits Boundary Area Between Nasarawa and Kaduna States, Reviews Security Measures
Army Opens Combat Support Arms Training Week 2026 in Uyo
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army on Tuesday commenced the 2026 Combat Support Arms Training Week (COSAT) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with a call for enhanced adaptability, resilience and indigenous innovation to strengthen operational effectiveness.
The event, hosted by the Headquarters Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps (NAIC), was held at the Ibom Hall in Uyo Local Government Area and brought together senior military officers, government officials and other stakeholders.
The theme of the training week is: “Strengthening Combat Support Arms Adaptability and Resilience Through Indigenous Innovation for Integrated Operational Support Within a Joint and Multi-agency Framework.”
Speaking at the opening ceremony, participants underscored the importance of leveraging local innovation and inter-agency collaboration to address evolving security challenges and enhance operational support capabilities.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Capt. Iniobong Ekon (Rtd), attended the event alongside top military officials and invited guests.
Also present were the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, represented by Maj.-Gen. A.A. Adekeye; the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Maj.-Gen. E.E. Emekah; and the Chief Host and Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps, Maj.-Gen. R.E. Hedima.
Other attendees included corps commanders, senior serving and retired military officers, the Commander 2 Brigade/Sector 4 Operation Delta Safe, as well as representatives of various security agencies and organisations.
Activities conducted during the opening ceremony included professional lectures, static displays by combat support corps and the presentation of souvenirs.
The training week is expected to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, professional development and the exchange of ideas aimed at enhancing the Nigerian Army’s capacity to provide effective combat support within joint and multi-agency operations.
The event was conducted without any security or logistical incidents.
Army Opens Combat Support Arms Training Week 2026 in Uyo
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