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Troops Intensify Offensive, Neutralize Scores of Boko Haram/ISWAP Terrorists, Clear 25 Camps

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Troops Intensify Offensive, Neutralize Scores of Boko Haram/ISWAP Terrorists, Clear 25 Camps

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully neutralized scores of Boko Haram/Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP) fighters during a significant week-long offensive against terrorists in the northeast of Borno State.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, that the land and air offensive, which began on January 7, 2024, as part of Operation Desert Sanity III, also resulted in the clearance and destruction of over 25 terrorist camps in the Sambisa Forest and the Timbuktu Triangle.

The sources reported that during one of the fierce offensives by the troops of the 21 Armored Brigade in Bama, they encountered terrorists in Ukuba, Sambisa, and engaged them with heavy firepower. As a result of the encounter, 11 ISWAP fighters were neutralized, which caused the remaining terrorists to scatter and flee in disarray. During the clash, one gun truck loaded with ammunition exploded and burned.

The troops recovered various weapons and equipment, including one anti-aircraft gun, one rocket-propelled grenade tube, one general-purpose machine gun (GPMG), two RPG chargers, five AK-47 rifles, a terrorist flag, two pickup vans, and one grinding machine mill, among other items. Continuing their offensive operations deeper into the Sambisa Forest, the troops cleared areas such as Garin Abu Umaru, New/Old Mjimia, Garin Munzo, Alafa 1, and Alafa 2. An alleged Amir of Garin Munzo and five other fighters were intercepted and neutralized, while newly established camps were discovered and destroyed.

The source highlighted the team’s bravery and commitment, which significantly contributed to the dislodgement of terrorists from numerous locations, including New Goske, Garin Abbas, Garin Ba’aba, Korege, Arra, Garin Abu Amina, Garin Noma, Garin Malam Ma’azu, Garin Fallujah, Ukuba, Sabil Huda, Garin Munzo, Garin Abu Umaru, New Njimia, Garin Adamu, and a farmland in Dure at Balar, Yaro Bulamari, Yaro Goni Krumidi, Yaro Lawanti, and Yaro Umaradi, among others.

However, while en route to clear these locations, a patrol team triggered an IED around 1530 hours near Alagarno. Fortunately, no casualties were sustained, but the armored personnel carrier sustained damage to its rear track and two turbochargers.

Simultaneously, the troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade advanced and cleared Boko Haram enclaves in Amadaga Madachi and Amadaga villages in Gwoza LGA. The suspected terrorists fled upon noticing the troops’ advance. The troops continued toward Gobara, where they made contact with the enemy, who fled with injuries as evidenced by traces of blood.

In another encounter, the troops of the 159 Battalion and 199 Special Forces Battalion, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), cleared terrorist enclaves at BBalar, Yaro Bulamari, Yaro Goni Krumidi, Yaro Lawanti, and Yaro Umaradi. No contact with the enemy was made during this operation.

In Yobe State, the troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade continued their advances and cleared the area of Gol. They discovered and safely detonated one IED. The terrorists fled the scene, abandoning 67 bags of assorted grains in an underground storage facility along with ammunition.

Additionally, the troops ambushed and neutralized two ISWAP terrorists at Katarko along the road to Yobe State University and recovered two AK-47 rifles.

As the offensive persisted, troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade cleared Galengi and Dusuri. About 2 kilometers ahead of Tobolo, contact was made with enemy combatants. The troops engaged the terrorists in a gunfight, killing two and recovering their weapons.

The troops also cleared Arimarim and Koborori villages. Before reaching Galengi, they encountered and neutralized one terrorist, recovering a Dane gun. A terrorist camp was set ablaze during the operation.

Despite facing challenges such as difficult terrain, IED threats, and other issues, the troops have maintained their momentum, focusing on and remaining determined to pursue and decimate the fleeing terrorists wherever they are found in the Sambisa Forest.

According to the source, ISWAP commanders, including Abu Aisha (Khaid) and four assistant commanders (Munzir)—Bako, Mallam Abubakar, Abu Ibrahim, and Hanzala (also a Khaid)—are currently on the run. Nevertheless, the troops are resolute in their determination to hunt them down.

Troops Intensify Offensive, Neutralize Scores of Boko Haram/ISWAP Terrorists, Clear 25 Camps

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NAF CONDUCTS FOURTH QUARTER ROUTE MARCH TO BOLSTER TROOP READINESS, HONOURS FALLEN PERSONNEL IN SOLEMN TRIBUTE

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NAF CONDUCTS FOURTH QUARTER ROUTE MARCH TO BOLSTER TROOP READINESS, HONOURS FALLEN PERSONNEL IN SOLEMN TRIBUTE

By: Our Reporter

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted its Fourth Quarter 2024 Route March exercise today, 26 October 2024, across all NAF formations in the country. The nationwide event saw personnel from various units engaging in a coordinated show of physical fitness, mental resilience, and unity, reinforcing the NAF’s operational readiness.

In Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, who was also the Guest of Honour, stressed the critical importance of physical and mental preparedness for all personnel, especially given Nigeria’s dynamic security challenges. The CAS reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to rigorous training, which was in consonance with one of the key enablers of his Command Philosophy, namely “Deliberate Training and Mission-oriented Force Development”. This speaks eloquently to the CAS strategic intent to develop and sustain optimal operational effectiveness in the NAF.

Air Marshal Abubakar also highlighted plans to upgrade NAF sporting facilities, including constructing a state-of-the-art gym at the NAF Special Operations Command and refurbishing existing gyms across all units. He encouraged weekly participation in sporting activities to foster fitness, teamwork, and talent discovery, noting that youth competitions are in the works to engage young people in NAF bases and uncover hidden talents.

The NAF remains steadfast in providing essential resources and training to support personnel in all operational tasks. The exercise concluded with a solemn reminder to maintain vigilance, adaptability, and resilience amid evolving security demands. As part of activities that marked the event, the NAF male volleyball team was congratulated on topping the National Division 1 Volleyball League, leading to its promotion to the Premier League.

A sombre tone accompanied the event as the CAS led attendees in a mark of honor for 5 NAF personnel who recently lost their lives in a tragic accident while en route to represent Nigeria at the African Military Games 2024 in Abuja. A minute of silence was observed in their memory, underscoring the sacrifices of NAF personnel in service to the nation. The CAS further assured that the NAF would forever remember our fallen heroes and stand by the families they left behind.

NAF CONDUCTS FOURTH QUARTER ROUTE MARCH TO BOLSTER TROOP READINESS, HONOURS FALLEN PERSONNEL IN SOLEMN TRIBUTE

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DHQ CLARIFIES: NO APPOINTMENT OF ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF; CALLS FOR MILITARY COUP IS TREASONABLE

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DHQ CLARIFIES: NO APPOINTMENT OF ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF; CALLS FOR MILITARY COUP IS TREASONABLE

By: Tukur Gusau

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave. The AFN is professionally managed and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitutionof the FGN. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS as per SOP.

The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately. The COAS is hail and hearty and will doon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.

Media organizations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before releasing fake news to the public. The CDS had only spoken with the COAS a few minutes ago.

Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution.

The AFN is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and are loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity.

The relative peace being enjoyed today is a direct result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of the AFN leadership.

To this end, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country. The CDS appreciates Nigerians for their support and prayers. Victory is assured.

DHQ CLARIFIES: NO APPOINTMENT OF ACTING CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF; CALLS FOR MILITARY COUP IS TREASONABLE

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CAS REAFFIRMS LOYALTY TO C-IN-C, BACKS SENIOR LEADERS ON NAF TRANSFORMATION

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CAS REAFFIRMS LOYALTY TO C-IN-C, BACKS SENIOR LEADERS ON NAF TRANSFORMATION

By: Our Reporter

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. The CAS also expressed strong confidence in the capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Senior Leadership to spearhead the ongoing transformation for greater agility and resilience, towards more effective airpower delivery in pursuit of Nigeria’s national defence and security imperatives. This was communicated during the CAS Second Biannual Meeting with Headquarters (HQ) NAF Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding (AOCs) of NAF field commands and Commandants of Tri-Service and Major NAF institutions. The 2-day meeting began today, 17 October 2024, at the Air Marshal MD Umar Blue Room, HQ NAF. In his opening remarks, the CAS congratulated those newly appointed to their roles, emphasizing that the appointments were indicative of their pedigree of hard work and dedication. He urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and loyalty as they steer their respective Branches and Commands to greater heights.

Addressing the security challenges facing the nation, and speaking particularly to the expanded counterinsurgency operations in the North-West as well as anti-oil theft operations in the South-South, the CAS commended the transformational leadership of the AOCs and Branch Chiefs. He credited their tireless efforts for the significant results seen on the ground, but emphasised the need for continued innovation, resilience, and adaptability to confront evolving threats. The CAS also reflected on the NAF’s recent achievements, noting the induction of 12 aircraft into the Service inventory in the past year, with an additional 50 aircraft expected by 2026. He described this development as a “Golden Era” of transformation for the NAF, expressing optimism that under the leadership of the current Branch Chiefs and AOCs, the Air Force would continue to rise to the occasion and fulfil the airpower requirements of national security. The meeting serves as a platform for critical review and recalibration of strategies to enhance the operational effectiveness of the NAF. In this light, the CAS employed the analogy of Colonel John Boyd’s “Observe-Orient-Decide-Act (OODA) Loop” decision-making framework, to drive home the need for commanders to continuously assess, adapt, and act decisively to stay ahead of security challenges.

The CAS also used the opportunity to reaffirm the NAF’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a safer and stronger Nigeria, pledging the absolute support of the NAF in contributing to national security and stability. He noted in particular Mr President’s determination to ensure that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is equipped with the best weapons, platforms and logistics to effectively carry out it’s constitutional role.

The CAS also expressed appreciation to members of the 39 Regular Course there present, for their continued support and their enormous wealth of experience which undoubtedly had been a critical contributor to the NAF’s ongoing transformation. He called for open, objective and constructive dialogue during the two-day meeting, expressing confidence that the outcomes would further consolidate the NAF’s capabilities for decisive airpower employment to ensure the security, safety and prosperity of the country.

CAS REAFFIRMS LOYALTY TO C-IN-C, BACKS SENIOR LEADERS ON NAF TRANSFORMATION

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