MNJTF CELEBRATES THE SUCCESS OF OPERATION LAKE SANITY 2, PRESENTS OPERATIONAL MEDALS TO TROOPS

By: OLANIYI OSOBA

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has commemorated the successful completion of Operation LAKE SANITY 2 (OPLS 2 ) with a presentation of medal ceremony that celebrated the bravery and sacrifices of its troops. The OPLS 2 Medal presentation ceremony held at Headquarters MNJTF Farcha in N’Djamena, Chad was graced by the Minister of Armed Forces, Veteran and War Victims of Chad, Issaka Maluoa Djamous, as the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH).

The Honourable Minister of Defence Chad, in a stirring address, commended the exceptional heroic action and dedication demonstrated by the troops throughout the operation. He stated that the success of OPLS 2 was not only a significant milestone but also a testament to the unwavering resolve and immense sacrifices of the troops.

The SGOH underscored the critical importance of collaboration between the MNJTF and national forces in restoring peace and stability across the sub-region, emphasizing that solidarity and team work have contributed to strengthening the foundations of lasting peace in the region which has been plagued by instability for several years. The SGOH also paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the operation, reiterating that the sacrifices will never be forgotten.

In his welcome remarks, the Force Commander (FC) MNJTF Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali highlighted the critical successes under OPLS 2 over the past year. He said the achievement includes repatriating over 30,000 refugees and internally displaced persons, dismantling of crucial terrorists logistical bases, neutralisation of over 310 terrorists and the crippling of the Terrorists’ operational capabilities.

General Ali also reiterated that OPLS 2 also led to the arrest of over 160 logistics suppliers and informants as well as the surrender of more than 800 terrorists and their families as well as the recovery of significant arms and ammunition, indicating a decline in support for terrorism.

Major General Ali on behalf of the troops, expressed profound gratitude for the continued support and strategic direction provided by the Lake Chad Basin Commission, particularly by the Head of Mission during the operation. He also acknowledged the visionary leadership of former force commanders , whose efforts in previous operations such as AMNI FAKAT, GAMA AIKI and YANCIN TAFKI laid the groundwork for the success of OPLS 2.

The occasion was graced by the Head of Mission MNJTF, Governors and Chiefs of Defence Staff of Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) and Key Military Commanders from national forces. Others are top government functionaries from Chad, Royal Fathers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and specially invited guests. Highlights of the ceremony include the decoration of the FC, DFC, sector commanders and troops for their outstanding contributions to OPLS 2.

The Chiefs of Defence Staff of TCCs were also honoured with the prestigious OPLS 2 Medal for their extraordinary contributions to regional peace and stability. In addition, families of soldiers wounded or who paid the supreme sacrifice during the operation were presented with tokens as a symbol of MNJTF’s profound gratitude and respect. The ceremony concluded with the commissioning of the newly remodelled MNJTF’s Photo Stand by the SGOH

MNJTF CELEBRATES THE SUCCESS OF OPERATION LAKE SANITY 2, PRESENTS OPERATIONAL MEDALS TO TROOPS

ARMY WAR COLLEGE NIGERIA DECORATES SIX NEWLY PROMOTED BRIGADIER GENERALS

By: Saad Abdullahi

The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) held a ceremony on Friday 3 January 2025, to decorate six of its officers recently elevated to the rank of Brigadier General. The event took place at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Hall of the College, located in Asokoro, Abuja.

The newly promoted officers are Brigadier General IB Buhari, Brigadier General SBN Egbulem, Brigadier General AA Sambo, Brigadier General AU Abdul, Brigadier General AM Dikko, and Brigadier General MI Lemu.

In his remarks, the Commandant of AWCN, Major General Ishaya Maina, commended the newly promoted officers for their dedication, professionalism, and loyalty, which had earned them this significant career milestone. Addressing the promoted officers, he emphasized the weight of leadership and responsibility that accompanies their new rank.

Quoting General Norman Schwarzkopf, a revered U.S. Army Commander, General Maina remarked, “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.” He underscored the message by explaining that while strategic expertise is crucial, the character of a leader defines their ability to inspire trust and loyalty, especially in challenging circumstances.

He further reminded the officers of the purpose of rank and authority by quoting General Bruce C. Clarke: “Rank is given you to enable you to better serve those above and below you. It is not given for you to practice your idiosyncrasies.” General Maina elaborated on this, urging the newly decorated generals to view their promotion not as a privilege but as a call to greater service, accountability, and humility.

The Commandant also extended his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his unwavering support of the College and for approving the promotions.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Director of Administration and Logistics AWCN, Brigadier General JN Garba, commended the officers’ exceptional achievements. He noted that these six individuals were part of the 73 colonels promoted by the Nigerian Army, who had been thoroughly assessed by the promotion board and deemed exemplary in character, military expertise, and dedication.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Senatorial District; the Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Major General HT Wesley; and Major General DG Alu, among others.

ARMY WAR COLLEGE NIGERIA DECORATES SIX NEWLY PROMOTED BRIGADIER GENERALS

Nigeria: Troops intercepted a terrorist courier conveying IEDs in Borno

By: Our Reporter

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) operating under Sector 3 in Monguno, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), intercepted a suspected terrorist courier conveying a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) and making materials at the entrance to Gubio Local Government Area on Thursday, 2 January 2025, in a significant counter-terrorism operation.

Gunio is located about 60km from Maiduguri, the Borno state capital, Northeast Nigeria.

Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF, N’djamena, Chad, in a statement on Wednesday, identified the suspect as Mr. Murktar Alhaji Chari, 28 years old.

According to the statement, the suspect confessed to transporting the materials to Damasak town in the Mobbar Local Government Area for a planned attack on MNJTF troops.

“The intercepted materials included four empty 12kg cylinders, one empty 6kg cylinder, two carburetor gas canisters, two pressure regulators, and a hose.” The statement further said

According to the statement, information revealed that the materials were intended for a group of terrorists planning a retaliatory attack following the killing of their members and seizure of a significant weapons cache.
by the armed forces

It said the suspect is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.

The Force Commander MNJTF, Major General Ibrahim Ali, has commended the troops and CJTF for their vigilance and professionalism, reiterating MNJTF’s resolve to combat terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of the region.

Nigeria: Troops intercepted a terrorist courier conveying IEDs in Borno