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The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
By Zagazola Makama
In the intricate tapestry of life, with its twists and turns, highs and lows, moments of joy and sorrow, and contrasts between humility and arrogance, our paths lead us to either sweet or bitter ends.
Life, as described in the holy book, is fleeting. Fashioned from clay, we shall all return to dust, leaving behind only memories of the moments, good or bad, that we crafted in our time on earth.
In this fleeting existence, where we chase power, wealth, and ego-driven pursuits, there is one universal truth that binds us all – death. It comes spontaneously, without regard for status or position – a sobering reminder of our mortality.
Nigerians, and indeed the world, are familiar with the harrowing tales of attacks on Nigerian troops by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the northeast. However, the story of an attack on Nigerian troops by the very community they were deployed to protect is a rare and tragic occurrence.
On March 14, 2024, a community launched a senseless assault on the troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State. This attack resulted in the tragic loss of Lt. Col. Ali, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 soldiers who were committed to brokering peace between warring communities.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi Hassan Ali, a valiant and results-driven officer, had a distinguished career marked by courage, focus, and unwavering dedication to his duty. From his early days with the 198 Special Forces Battalion to his leadership in successful operations in the Northeast and beyond, Lt. Col. Ali exemplified the qualities of a true military leader.
His leadership was tested in challenging missions, such as the operation in the Timbuktu Triangle and the retaking of Dikwa and Marte from terrorists. With each operation, Lt. Col. Ali displayed extraordinary bravery and strategic acumen, leading his troops to victory while securing critical objectives.
Beyond the counterinsurgency operations in the North East, Lt. Col. Ali demonstrated his valor in combating bandits and stabilizing troubled regions in Kaduna and Niger States. His unwavering commitment to his duty, his men, and the mission resulted in numerous successes against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the region.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi Hassan Ali’s legacy is one of bravery, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to serving his country. His meticulous attention to detail, commitment to the welfare of his officers and soldiers, and relentless pursuit of excellence set him apart as a true hero worth honoring.
Lt. Col. Ali’s tragic end at the hands of those he swore to protect serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by brave men and women in uniform. His story, along with that of his fallen comrades, resonates with the profound impact of their service and the ultimate price they paid in the line of duty.
As we reflect on the life and service of Lt. Col. AH Ali and his brave comrades, let us remember their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to defending their fellow countrymen. Their sacrifices shall not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers and leaders.
In a world marked by uncertainties and dangers, it is the resilience and valor of individuals like Lt. Col. Ali that shine as beacons of hope and strength. May their memory be honored, their deeds celebrated, and their sacrifices remembered as a testament to the enduring spirit of service and sacrifice that defines the noble profession of arms.
The Tragic Story of Lt. Col. AH Ali and His 13 Brave Comrades
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Saudi Arabia Ramps Up Humanitarian Efforts To Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan
Saudi Arabia Ramps Up Humanitarian Efforts To Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan
By: Michael Mike
Saudi Arabia has ramped up humanitarian efforts to Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan in order to bring succour to those affected by ongoing crises in the three areas.
A statement on Thursday by the Embassy of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria read that: “As conflict, economic hardship, and displacement continue to impact millions of people in Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), has intensified its humanitarian efforts, delivering critical aids to vulnerable populations in order to face challenges with renewed hope and resilience.
“In Gaza, where humanitarian needs have reached critical levels as a result of Israeli war, KSrelief has launched one of its most extensive relief campaigns to date. Over 54 aid planes and 8 ships have been dispatched, loaded with emergency food, medical supplies, shelter materials, and a wide range of logistical support items.
“Among the specific aid resources are 20 ambulances, 30 electricity generators, and 10 water tanks, all designed to provide immediate relief to those affected by ongoing Israel war on Gaza. Additionally, KSrelief has distributed 39,200 ready-to-eat meals to help meet immediate nutritional needs for families facing severe food shortages. This operation includes specialised provisions and support for displaced individuals, offering a comprehensive response to the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
The statement added that: “Furthering its commitment, Saudi Arabia has allocated over $80 million to support long-term aid projects in Gaza. These funds, channeled through partnerships with major international organisations such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian Refugees, the World Food Programme (WFP), World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Palestinian Red Crescent Society, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), target critical sectors including food security, health, water and sanitation, shelter, and emergency response. This funding aims to create sustainable support systems that will continue to aid Gaza’s population even after immediate crisis relief has been delivered, laying the foundation for longer-term recovery.
“In Lebanon, where an economic collapse has placed immense pressure on innocent civilians, KSrelief has increased its humanitarian outreach to alleviate hardship. KSrelief’s twenty aid plane arrived in Beirut, carrying essential food, medical, and shelter supplies to provide relief to vulnerable communities across the country. Lebanon’s economic crisis due to Israel air strikes has led to widespread shortages in food, fuel, and healthcare services, impacting millions and worsening living conditions.
“Saudi Arabia’s aid to Lebanon, managed through KSrelief, also includes targeted support for medical facilities, with critical supplies directed towards hospitals and healthcare centers strained by resource shortages. KSrelief’s strategic efforts align with the Kingdom’s broader vision of fostering stability in the Middle East, addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and providing resources to bolster Lebanon’s health and food security systems.”
In Sudan with the country grapples with the effects of prolonged conflict and displacement, KSrelief has sent 13 planes and 31 relief vessels loaded with vital resources, including food supplies, health equipment, shelter materials, and other essential non-food items.
The statement said: “This aid, totaling over $118 million, underscores Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting Sudanese families affected by instability and ensuring that they have access to critical resources needed for survival and recovery.
“In addition to delivering emergency relief, KSrelief has implemented programmes designed to address Sudan’s food security and health infrastructure needs, supporting local healthcare facilities and nutrition programmes for vulnerable populations. Volunteer initiatives and logistical support programmes coordinated by KSrelief further strengthen the Kingdom’s response, as Saudi Arabia positions itself as a reliable partner in Sudan’s path to recovery.”
Saudi Arabia Ramps Up Humanitarian Efforts To Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan
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Go And Be Responsible Citizens, President Tinubu Charges Pardoned Suspects
Go And Be Responsible Citizens, President Tinubu Charges Pardoned Suspects
By: Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has advised the 119 suspects in the August 1 protests in Kano and Kaduna States to use the opportunity given them by his presidential pardon to become responsible citizens of the country.
This was the message passed by Vice President Kashim Shettima to the pardoned suspects while advising them to desist from acts that will lead to violence and destruction of public and private property.
He said the federal government is finding solutions to challenges confronting the nation.
The Vice President gave the charge on Tuesday during the formal handover of 112 suspects, 73 from Kano and 39 from Kaduna States, to their respective governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Seven of the pardoned suspects had earlier been granted bail, and three were released to their parents, making a total of 119.
At the brief ceremony, the Vice President, who spoke in English and Hausa languages, said despite overwhelming evidence against the suspects, including their involvement in the destruction of public and private property worth billions of naira, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered their release on humanitarian grounds, giving them another chance to become responsible citizens.
He called on the governments of Kaduna and Kano States to anchor the rehabilitation of the suspects so they can be reintegrated into the social fabric of their respective communities and society at large.
The Vice President described President Tinubu as a compassionate leader who cares for all Nigerians and is leaving no stone unturned in the bid to improve the nation’s economy.
Earlier in his presentation to the VP, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, said all pardoned suspects had been medically examined and certified fit to be released to their parents/guardians.
He added that while 112 of the suspects were being presented to the VP for the formal handover to their respective state governments, seven others had earlier been released.
Earlier in his remarks, Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, urged the released suspects to reflect on their actions and embrace the opportunity given to them by President Tinubu to become better and responsible citizens, maintaining that they must desist from further acts that will pit them against the laws of the land.
He pledged his administration’s commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders to support the freed suspects in completing their education or engaging in ventures that will positively impact their lives.
For his part, the Governor of Kano State, Engr Abba Yusuf, said the release of the suspects has further demonstrated President Tinubu’s compassion for the masses. He noted that the state government does not take the gesture for granted.
He said the state government will ensure that the suspects are adequately rehabilitated and reintegrated into their respective communities.
Similarly, the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Jibrin Barau, urged the pardoned suspects to embrace the opportunity to become better citizens, just as he thanked the President for forgiving them and ensuring their release to their families.
The event’s high point was the Vice President’s symbolic handover of the suspects to their respective state governors.
The event was also attended by the Minister of Environment, Engr Balarabe Lawal; Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Yusuf Sununu; and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Abubakar Bichi.
Go And Be Responsible Citizens, President Tinubu Charges Pardoned Suspects
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ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF MAJOR GENERAL OLUFEMI OLUYEDE ASSUMES DUTY
ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF MAJOR GENERAL OLUFEMI OLUYEDE ASSUMES DUTY
..solicits support to tackle security challenges
By: Our Reporter
The Acting Chief of Army Staff (Ag COAS), Major General Olufemi Oluyede, today, Friday, 1st November 2024, assumed duties at the Army Headquarters, Abuja. The acting COAS was appointed by the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, pending the return of the substantive COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who is currently on medical leave.
At the formal taking-over ceremony at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, emphasized that the appointment aligns with the Armed Forces Act of 2004. General Musa stressed that the Armed Forces could not afford to let insecurity prevail and called for support for the acting COAS in his new role.
General Musa reminded all field commanders of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to the Armed Forces and the tasks at hand. He urged the commanders not to relent in guaranteeing national security and the safety of all Nigerians.
In his remarks, the acting Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding him worthy of the appointment and prayed for the speedy recuperation of the COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Ag COAS solicited support from all personnel of the Armed Forces and Nigerians in general, in tackling the security challenges bedeviling the country. He pledged his loyalty to the Commander In Chief of the Armed Forces and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Highlight of the event was the formal handover of Army Command flag by the CDS, General Christopher Musa to the acting Chief of Army Staff.
Until his appointment, Major General Olufemi Oluyede served as the 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in Jaji, Kaduna.
A member of the 39th Regular Combatant Course of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Oluyede was commissioned into the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1992 and rose steadily to the enviable rank of Major General in September 2020. His illustrious career traverse various command, staff and instructional appointments such as Platoon Commander, Adjutant, Company Commander, Brigade commander, and General Officer Commanding, amongst several other appointments.
He has participated in several operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi and Operation HADIN KAI in the North East theatre of operations, where he commanded 27 Task Force Brigade and Sector 2.
Major General Olufemi Oluyede also earned several honours and awards for his meritorious service in diverse fields of operation.
ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF MAJOR GENERAL OLUFEMI OLUYEDE ASSUMES DUTY
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