Troops repel series of attacks by ISWAP in Borno, terrorists suffer casualties, as Borno residents celebrate

By: Zagazola Makama

Nigerian troops have successfully repelled coordinated attacks by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on multiple military positions across Borno State, including Maiduguri, Damboa, Baga, and Buratai, early Saturday, security sources confirmed.

At about 12:00 a.m., ISWAP attempted to attack troop positions on the outskirts of Maiduguri near Dala Ajilari Cross. The incursion was met with swift resistance by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with joint forces from Police Crack Squad, CJTF, NSCDC, and local hunters. Residents reported sporadic gunfire and significant military activity on the city outskirts.

At about 1:10 a.m., insurgents launched an assault on the 135 Special Forces Battalion in Buratai, Biu LGA, engaging troops in heavy gunfire for nearly two hours.

The attackers reportedly attempted to breach the military facility using multiple assault groups supported by heavy weapons and technical vehicles. Troops mounted a robust defence, forcing the insurgents to withdraw. A fire broke out in one of the military facilities after a projectile struck the building.

Simultaneously, ISWAP targeted the Brigade Headquarters and positions in the Baga–Mile 4 axis, including locations linked to the Special Boat Service (SBS), which secures Lake Chad waterways. Insurgents employed gun trucks, motorcycles, and rocket-propelled grenades in attempts to overwhelm defensive positions. Troops responded with coordinated firepower, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorists and forcing them to disengage.

A source in Baga said, “We inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists. The battle began at about 1:10 a.m. and lasted nearly two hours. Many of them were killed. They tried to remove some of their dead, but several corpses were left behind.”

The successful defence has sparked celebrations among Borno residents, who came out in large numbers to cheer troops in Maiduguri.

Residents expressed relief and renewed confidence in the military’s ability to secure their communities. The Youths joined in spontaneous celebrations and chanting support for the troops.

Troops repel series of attacks by ISWAP in Borno, terrorists suffer casualties, as Borno residents celebrate

Usman Takes Over as Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary, Seeks Stronger Collaboration

By: Michael Mike

The newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Salihu Aminu Usman, has officially assumed duty, pledging to strengthen collaboration within the ministry and across the nation’s environmental sector.

Usman made the call during a brief handover ceremony, where he urged staff, agencies and stakeholders to work together to advance environmental policies and programmes aimed at sustainable national development.

He stressed that the ministry’s mandate cannot be effectively achieved without collective commitment and teamwork, noting that cooperation among all actors in the sector is critical to delivering meaningful results.

The new Permanent Secretary assured staff that he would build on the achievements and institutional structures established by his predecessor, while focusing on staff development, professionalism and improved welfare.

According to him, strengthening the capacity and motivation of workers in the ministry will remain central to achieving the ministry’s environmental protection and sustainability goals.

In his remarks, the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mahmud Adam Kambari, described the Federal Ministry of Environment as an institution blessed with experienced and dedicated personnel.

He thanked the management and staff for the support and cooperation he received during his tenure and encouraged them to extend the same level of commitment to the incoming Permanent Secretary.

Kambari expressed confidence in Usman’s leadership ability, describing him as a professional with strong credentials and an amiable personality capable of sustaining the progress made in the ministry.

He also commended the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, describing him as an inspiring leader and mentor whose guidance contributed to the successes recorded during his time in office.

Speaking on behalf of the ministry’s management and staff, the Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Adenopo, expressed appreciation to Kambari for his leadership and contributions to the ministry.

She noted that his tenure witnessed important achievements that strengthened the ministry’s profile and institutional capacity.

Adenopo welcomed Usman to the ministry and assured him of the unwavering support and cooperation of the workforce.

She expressed confidence that his leadership would consolidate existing gains and guide the ministry toward greater progress in addressing Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

Usman Takes Over as Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary, Seeks Stronger Collaboration

Joint security forces arrest two suspected gunmen during clearance operation in Bauchi

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army and other joint security agencies have continued clearance operations in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, resulting in the arrest of mysuspected gunmen.

Security sources said the operation was carried out through a joint effort involving the army, the Nigeria Police Force, forest guards and personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The coordinated security operation was conducted in Mansur and Gwana areas of the local government area as part of ongoing efforts to clear criminal elements from communities in the area.

According to the sources, the joint security team raided suspected hideouts during the operation and successfully apprehended at least two suspected armed criminals.

Residents of nearby communities, including Duguri town in Alkaleri LGA, commended the security forces for their sustained efforts in restoring peace and protecting lives and property.

Community members also praised the sacrifices of Nigerian security personnel who operate in difficult and dangerous environments to safeguard communities and ensure stability.

They prayed for continued protection and strength for the troops and other security operatives as they carry out their duties in defence of the nation.

Joint security forces arrest two suspected gunmen during clearance operation in Bauchi