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President Tinubu: We’ll Continue To Equip The Military To End Insecurity In Nigeria

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President Tinubu: We’ll Continue To Equip The Military To End Insecurity In Nigeria

** Inducts 2 new Agusta A-109S Trekker Power Attack Helicopters into NAF

By: Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday in Abuja inducted two Agusta A-109S Trekker Power Attack Helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), with a solemn promise that his administration will continue to invest in cutting-edge defence technologies and provide the Nigerian military with the resources needed to end Insecurity in the country.

He expressed confidence that the deployment of the helicopters will add impetus to the combat power of the nation’s military in the ongoing fight against insecurity in Nigeria as well as the entire West African region.

The President was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, at the induction ceremony held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron, Abuja, as part of activities to mark the 61st anniversary of the NAF.

The two new helicopters are the latest in the list of recent military procurements, including Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters and King Air 360i platforms.

The President assured his administration’s steadfastness in modernising the Armed Forces by ensuring that they get the best tools to perform their duties effectively.

He said, “We will continue to invest in cutting-edge defence technologies and provide our military with the resources needed to counter both conventional and asymmetric threats.”

The President noted that the purchase of the combat helicopters, as well as others that will be delivered in the coming months, was part of the federal government’s resolve to equip the armed forces to combat the contemporary insecurity challenges and protect Nigerians despite budgetary constraints.

“I am overly confident and rightly so that the deployment of these newly acquired platforms will add impetus to the combat power of the Nigerian Air Force in tackling our contemporary security challenges, not only within the shores of our Country but also in the West African sub-region.

“Despite our budgetary constraints amidst the prevailing economic situation, the acquisition of these aircraft, amongst other military equipment, is an expression of our commitment to enhanced national security. We shall ensure that every sector of our nation experiences the change that we have promised,” he stated.

President Tinubu explained that the investment in air power aligns with the broader vision of his administration “to create a buoyant and self-sufficient economy for local and foreign investments to thrive,” in order for Nigerians to partake in meaningful, productive ventures.

“It is for this reason that strengthening national security for peace and prosperity is a key priority area in the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he declared, pointing out that efforts by the military to finally wrapping up ongoing onslaught against the enemies of the nation’s collective progress are necessary in building the trust and confidence the citizens need to thrive and prosper.

“You must therefore step up and intensify your efforts at conclusively ending the multi-dimensional security challenges facing our dear country,” he told the NAF, just as he demanded discipline from its personnel in operation and “a strong maintenance culture that will enable the nation to derive maximum benefits from these acquisitions”.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, said the induction ceremony of the recently acquired Agusta A-109S Trekker Helicopters is a clear testament to the federal government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the nation’s military.

According to him, the idea is to enable the Air Force to combat terrorism, bandits, oil theft and other security problems confronting the country, just as he pointed out that the nation’s dynamic landscape demands an agile, well-equipped and responsive Air Force that is capable of rapid deployments across multiple theatres.

Abubakar explained that the successful acquisition of the helicopters is a significant feat in the modernisation effort of the Nigerian Air Force, saying the helicopters are specially designed for challenging operations, with cockpits that are ideally suited for training, battlefield operations and emergency response missions, among others.

Dignitaries present at the event included: Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Air Force, Senator Austin Akobundu; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa; Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche; Accountant General of the Federation, Shamsudeen Babatunde Ogunjimi; Auditor-General for the Federation, Shaakaa Kanyitor Chira and Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Nigeria, Zubaida Umar Abubakar, among others.

President Tinubu: We’ll Continue To Equip The Military To End Insecurity In Nigeria

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Waidi Shuaibu: from Theartre Commander to Army Chief — chronicling a transformative leadership journey

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Waidi Shuaibu: from Theartre Commander to Army Chief — chronicling a transformative leadership journey

By: Zagazola Makama

Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu’s appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to consolidate gains in the fight against insurgency and strengthen national security.

Before his elevation to the apex position in the Nigerian Army, Gen. Shuaibu served as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in the North-East, where his 14-month tenure was defined by tactical innovation, operational success, and deep civil-military engagement. His leadership transformed the counter-insurgency landscape, restoring relative stability to vast areas once dominated by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.

Upon assuming command of OPHK, Maj.-Gen. Shuaibu prioritized operational readiness, launching an extensive refurbishment of key military assets to boost troop morale and combat capability. He spearheaded the repair of vital armoured platforms, including ten VP1 Type 89 APCs, five BMPs, three Steyr APCs, and six Camel MRAPs, ensuring optimal deployment for the 2024 dry-season operations.

These efforts culminated in the historic deep-clearance operations into Sambisa Forest and the Tumbuktu Triangle in early 2024, which dealt devastating blows to terrorist hideouts, supply chains, and command structures. His coordinated offensive operations neutralized more than 567 terrorists and dismantled several high-value enemy enclaves between February 2024 and March 2025.

Under his leadership, the integration of air and ground components reached new heights. The Nigerian Air Force component executed over 230 sorties and 232 interdiction missions, clocking more than 567 flight hours, while the UAV Command carried out 760 ISR operations totaling 6,674 hours. These precision missions enhanced battlefield awareness, enabling ground troops to conduct over 9,800 patrols, 2,700 ambushes, and 990 clearance operations with high success rates.

Intelligence-led operations resulted in the arrest of 161 terrorist logisticians and the surrender of over 121,000 insurgents and their families — a remarkable milestone that shifted the dynamics of the North-East conflict toward peacebuilding and reintegration.

Maj.-Gen. Shuaibu’s counter-insurgency philosophy went beyond the battlefield. He introduced the Local Community Policing and Peace Enforcement (LCPPE) model in February 2024 — an initiative that deepened trust between the military and local communities. This approach paved the way for stabilization operations, including the resettlement of more than 4,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kukawa and other restored communities.

He also promoted civil-military cooperation through humanitarian and religious initiatives, including a Qur’anic Recitation Competition aimed at fostering moral resilience and unity among troops and civilians. Three participants were later sponsored for the Hajj pilgrimage — a gesture that reinforced goodwill and trust.

A hallmark of his tenure was the focus on infrastructure and troop welfare. He initiated the renovation and modernization of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Headquarters complex, constructed new escort and drivers’ lounges, refurbished soldiers’ accommodation, and built 30 two-bedroom community-based quarters for military families.

Additionally, the installation of long-range surveillance cameras in Monguno, Gajiram, and Kekeno enhanced operational intelligence and perimeter monitoring, further strengthening theatre-wide security.

Maj.-Gen. Shuaibu’s command period witnessed the elimination of several notorious terrorist leaders, including Tahir Baga and Abu Rijal, whose deaths crippled jihadist coordination and recruitment. His effective decapitation strategy was complemented by humanitarian outreach, leading to a steady return of normalcy in major population centres across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.

In recognition of these achievements, the North-East Theatre under his command received the Security Watch Africa Award in December 2024 as the Most Outstanding Defence Command in Africa, underscoring the effectiveness of his leadership and innovation in asymmetric warfare.

Now as Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Waidi Shuaibu is expected to replicate his transformative approach on a national scale. Security analysts and defence watchers believe his deep operational experience and emphasis on community-driven stability will guide the Nigerian Army toward renewed efficiency and professionalism.

His appointment signals continuity, discipline, and modernization — values he consistently championed throughout his command. Stakeholders within defence and civil sectors alike express optimism that his era will usher in strategic reforms to fortify Nigeria’s military capabilities and accelerate victory against insecurity.

Maj.-Gen. Shuaibu’s rise from Theatre Commander to Army Chief embodies the success of merit, dedication, and results-oriented leadership, a journey rooted in courage, intellect, and an unyielding commitment to peace and stability in Nigeria.

Waidi Shuaibu: from Theartre Commander to Army Chief — chronicling a transformative leadership journey

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Yobe: New commissioner for the livestock ministry, Hon. Yerima Mahmoud, promises to deliver on the mandate

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Yobe: New commissioner for the livestock ministry, Hon. Yerima Mahmoud, promises to deliver on the mandate

By: Yahaya Wakili

The newly appointed Commissioner of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Hon. Yarima Lawan Mahmoud, has expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, for giving him another opportunity to save the people of the state.

Hon. Yarima Lawan Mahmoud disclosed this today when he received the delegation from his local government led by the party chairman, Alhaji Ba Mariu Mohammed.

He reaffirmed his commitment to work closely with the local government authority and the party executives to strengthen the life of our people.

Earlier speaking, the leader of the delegation, who is also the party chairman of the Yunusari local government area, Alhaji Ba Mariu Mohammed, said they were at the Yarima Lawan Mahmoud residence to congratulate him on his recent appointment as a commissioner in the ministry of livestock development.

Alhaji Ba Mohammed further said the visit will also allow them to discuss areas of mutual collaboration aimed at improving the unity of the members of the party.

The commissioner then thanks the delegations who took their time to come from Yunusari to Damaturu to congratulate him on his appointment and pray to Almighty Allah to return them back home safely.

Yobe: New commissioner for the livestock ministry, Hon. Yerima Mahmoud, promises to deliver on the mandate

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UN@80: IPCR Says Charter Offers Guidance to Solving Terrorism, Violent Conflicts

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UN@80: IPCR Says Charter Offers Guidance to Solving Terrorism, Violent Conflicts

By: Michael Mike

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has said the principles of the United Nations Charter offers guidance to Nigeria and other African countries bedeviled by terrorism and other violent conflicts.

The message was given by the Director-General of the Institute, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of United Nations.

Ochogwu said: “Today, October 24, 2025, marks exactly 80 years since the entry into force of the United Nations Charter. As the world commemorates this historic milestone, we are reminded of the enduring vision of the Charter to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, and promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom. This vision remains profoundly relevant to Africa and to Nigeria, where the pursuit of peace, justice, and inclusive development continues to shape our collective aspirations.

“In today’s complex and rapidly changing security environment, the principles of the Charter, namely sovereign equality, peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for international law offer essential guidance. Across Africa, the persistence of violent conflicts, terrorism, and governance challenges underscores the urgent need to strengthen multilateral cooperation, preventive diplomacy, and mediation capacities. Nigeria’s leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and her experience in regional peacekeeping and conflict resolution affirm our commitment to these ideals and to the transformative role of international law in sustaining peace and security.

“The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) stands as a bridge between national policy and global peace initiatives. We reaffirm our partnership with the United Nations, the African Union, ECOWAS, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and institution-building. In this decade of action, we must deepen investments in peace infrastructure, youth empowerment, and cross-border cooperation to realize the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

He added that: “As we look to the future of the United Nations in Africa, the challenge before us is clear: to make peace sustainable, justice accessible, and security inclusive. The continued faith of Member States and communities in the principles of the UN Charter is an enduring source of hope for a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous continent.”

UN@80: IPCR Says Charter Offers Guidance to Solving Terrorism, Violent Conflicts

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