NigeriaNews24

Category: Defence/security

  • New FCT CP Unveils Tech-Driven Security Strategy for Abuja

    New FCT CP Unveils Tech-Driven Security Strategy for Abuja

    The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Adewale Ajao, has pledged to adopt a technology-driven approach to enhance security in Abuja.

    Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Ajao outlined plans to overhaul the intelligence department and deploy advanced surveillance tools, including CCTV cameras, drones, and digital crime mapping systems, for real-time crime monitoring and response.

    He also announced the establishment of a 24-hour Command and Control Centre to coordinate emergency operations efficiently.

    “My mission is to ensure that every resident of the FCT feels safe and secure in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to community policing and intelligence-led security measures.

    Ajao further highlighted plans to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and engage local leaders to improve grassroots security efforts. He vowed to uphold professionalism, combat corruption, and prioritize officer training and welfare.

    Calling for public cooperation, Ajao urged residents and stakeholders to support his vision of making Abuja a model for crime control and public safety.

  • Visa Denial: CECOE Condemns Canada’s Action, Calls It a Diplomatic Insult

    Visa Denial: CECOE Condemns Canada’s Action, Calls It a Diplomatic Insult

    • …Urges Stronger Nigerian Assertiveness

    The Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation, and Empowerment (CECOE) has strongly condemned the Canadian government’s decision to deny visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials.

    It described the move as a blatant act of diplomatic disrespect and a signal of Canada’s disregard for Nigeria’s sovereignty and military leadership.

    Recall the Nigerian officials were due to attend a high-level event in Canada focused on security cooperation and honoring war veterans, but according to the CDS, only a portion of the delegation received visas.

    CECOE, in a strongly worded statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. David Owah on Thursday, denounced the decision as “unjustifiable, insensitive, and an affront to Nigeria’s dignity on the global stage.”

    “This action by the Canadian government, is not just an administrative oversight, it is a clear dismissal of Nigeria’s importance in global security affairs. It raises troubling questions about Canada’s stance toward our military leadership and the overall diplomatic relationship between our two nations. We find this completely unacceptable.”

    The group, further aligned with General Musa’s call for Nigeria to assert itself more forcefully in international affairs and avoid being treated as an afterthought. They also backed the remarks of National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who stressed the need for Nigeria to work toward greater self-sufficiency to prevent undue reliance on foreign cooperation.

    While the exact reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, CECOE emphasized that this incident highlights the bureaucratic and political barriers Nigerian officials often face in international engagements, urging the Nigerian government to take decisive action, ensuring that such disrespect is not tolerated in future diplomatic dealings.

    “As a nation, we must demand respect and reciprocity in our international partnerships. Nigeria cannot afford to be treated with such disregard. The government must take this as an opportunity to strengthen our position and ensure our leaders are never subjected to such indignities again.

    “Additionally, we are calling on the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to act upon this blatant disrespect and disregard. He should immediately engage with Canadian authorities to seek an explanation for the visa denials and to implement measures that ensure, Nigerian officials are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve in all international engagements.” They added.

    The statement concluded with a call for Canada to provide immediate clarifications on its decision while urging Nigerian authorities to push back against any form of diplomatic discrimination against the country’s officials.

     

  • Nigerian Troops Eliminate Notorious Terrorist Commander Munzur Ya Audu in Yobe

    Nigerian Troops Eliminate Notorious Terrorist Commander Munzur Ya Audu in Yobe

    The Nigerian Army has successfully eliminated the notorious terrorist commander, Munzur Ya Audu, in Yobe State. The operation was confirmed by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

    Buba highlighted that the troops’ efforts extended beyond Ya Audu’s capture, focusing on dismantling terrorist logistics bases and disrupting terror group networks.

    In addition to neutralizing Ya Audu, the military seized a large cache of weapons and ammunition. The recovered items include 145 assorted weapons, 3,825 rounds of ammunition, and various explosive devices. The arsenal recovered was extensive and included AK47 rifles, RPG bombs, hand grenades, and locally made firearms.

    This operation marks a significant victory in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism, demonstrating the military’s commitment to eliminating terrorist threats and safeguarding national security.

  • Yuletide: Oyo, Osun Tighten Security Around Borders

    Yuletide: Oyo, Osun Tighten Security Around Borders

    The Oyo and Ogun State governments have announced enhanced security measures along their borders to address rising insecurity, particularly during the festive season. The Joint Security Commission for both states made the announcement following a meeting held along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Thursday.

    The security reinforcement aims to ensure the safety of residents, motorists, and travelers during the ember months, which typically see increased movement across borders. Special Advisers on Security to both governors, Fatai Owoseni of Oyo and Olusola Subair of Ogun, emphasized the importance of collective vigilance and collaboration between security agencies.

    Both states have strengthened their security framework, including communication integration, where residents can call a toll-free number (615) to report suspicious activities, facilitating swift governmental action. The meeting also reviewed the progress made over the past two years in reducing criminal activities on key highways linking the two states.

  • Police Inaugurate EOD Training School in Borno

    Police Inaugurate EOD Training School in Borno

     

    The Borno State police command has officially launched the first-ever Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training school in the region, located in Maiduguri. The new facility, which aims to improve the capacity of officers in handling explosives, was inaugurated on Tuesday in a ceremony attended by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Bello, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

    Bello emphasized the importance of the training center, citing the frequent cases of explosions in Borno State. The center will provide officers with the necessary skills to effectively neutralize explosive threats and enhance public safety.

    “We are grateful for the support from our partners, particularly the United Nations through the Lake Chad Basin framework,” Bello said. He also reminded officers of the need for proper maintenance of the facility to ensure its continued effectiveness.

    The facility features advanced EOD training equipment, a solar-powered energy system, water facilities, air conditioning, and a hostel with a 60-bed capacity. The UN Mine Action Service’s Edwin Faidmane highlighted that Borno’s history with insurgency and explosive threats made it an ideal location for the school.

    Roger Fawcus, a senior military advisor for the Lake Chad Basin Support Framework, expressed optimism about the role the school will play in strengthening the region’s security personnel.

  •  Nigerian Army Intensifies Manhunt for Lukarawa Terror Group in Sokoto, Kebbi States

     Nigerian Army Intensifies Manhunt for Lukarawa Terror Group in Sokoto, Kebbi States

     

    The Nigerian Army has intensified its efforts to dismantle the new terror group, Lukarawa, which has escalated violence in Sokoto and Kebbi States. Following recent attacks, the acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, visited the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto. He urged the troops to crush Lukarawa, which reportedly attracts youth through financial incentives, recruiting locally with support from extremist elements in Mali, Niger, and other countries.

    Oluyede emphasized the importance of community cooperation, urging residents to provide timely information to help the military’s ongoing clearance operations. He visited Tangaza and Illela, meeting with local leaders and security personnel to bolster collaborative security efforts.

    The group has imposed taxes, restricted local freedoms, and allegedly killed 15 people in Mera, Kebbi, during a recent cattle raid. The Nigerian Air Force has launched airstrikes targeting Lukarawa’s strongholds, while the Arewa Consultative Forum and other leaders demand swift and decisive actions to neutralize the group.

  • Zamfara’s Security Dilemma: Expert Challenges Governor’s Election-Centric Approach Amid Banditry

    Zamfara’s Security Dilemma: Expert Challenges Governor’s Election-Centric Approach Amid Banditry

    A security expert Captain Bish Johnson has criticised Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal for prioritising the 2027 elections over addressing the state’s banditry crisis.

    In an interview on TVC, Johnson praised security agents for their capacity to tackle the issue, citing the recent elimination of notorious bandit kingpin Halilu Sububu. However, he expressed concern that Lawal’s politicization may hinder further progress.

    The security expert lamented that Lawal has been using media outlets to attack his predecessor, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of State for Defence, falsely accusing him of fund misappropriation.

    Johnson emphasized the need for synergy and the need to separate politics from security matters, allowing professionals to do their jobs.

    He noted that Lawal’s 2027 electioneering campaign is premature and distracting him from governance.

    “From what we have seen recently, it is very clear that our security agents can deal with security problems, particularly banditry in the northwest,” he said. 

    “The elimination of Halilu Sububu who was a prominent figure in what is now known to be a syndicated commercialized economic crime. However, we need to address an issue which may derail the efforts of the security agents.

    “The issue of mixing politics with insecurity. In the last few days, the Governor of Zamfara State Dauda Lawal has been on different media outlets, infusing politics into what is supposed to be a pure fight to secure the northwest from the bandits. 

    “He’s been attacking his predecessor, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of State for Defence. The Minister would have been an added asset had the governor agreed to work in synergy with him.

    “Rather, he has brought his 2027 electioneering campaign into 2024 by alleging that Matawalle either misappropriated or stole funds.  But we have done our independent research on this matter and found all these to be false.

    “There is already a situation like this in the south-south, particularly in Rivers State where we have a sitting governor at loggerheads with his predecessor at a time they are supposed to be on the same page to continue on the momentum that was already on the ground. 

    “We have to separate politics from security matters and allow professionals to do their jobs. The governor is bringing forward 2027 politics to 2024, there is time for everything. There is time for electioneering and there is time for governance. 

    “Security agents need good roads and infrastructure to do their jobs. These are to be provided through governance by working with the central government and other stakeholders. “

  • Minister of Defence, CDS arrive north-west to boost troops’ morale on war against banditry

    Minister of Defence, CDS arrive north-west to boost troops’ morale on war against banditry

    .as Matawalle reinstates Tinubu’s resolve to wipe out terrorists

    In a significant move to tackle the growing insecurity in the North-West region, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has arrived in Sokoto.

    Matawalle is joined by Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa and other top military chiefs in a bid to boost troops’ morale and intensify the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

    The Minister’s visit comes on the heels of his recent expression of sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States.

    Matawalle assured the people of the region that the security forces would leave no stone unturned in their quest to flush out the bandits.

    During his arrival, the Minister reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and banditry in the region. He emphasised the government’s determination to restore peace and security to the affected areas.

    The presence of the Minister and top military chiefs in the northwest is expected to bolster the troops’ morale and enhance their operational capabilities. The move is seen as a decisive step towards addressing the growing insecurity in the region.

    More details later.

  • CWAI Commends NSCDC’s Agro-Rangers, Mining Marshals Initiatives

    CWAI Commends NSCDC’s Agro-Rangers, Mining Marshals Initiatives

    The Citizens Watch Advocacy Initiative (CWAI), a civil society and pressure group, has lauded the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its innovative Agro-Rangers and Mining Marshals initiatives. These programs aim to boost Nigeria’s food security, protect farmers, and secure the country’s mining sector.

    The Agro-Rangers Initiative, spearheaded by NSCDC Commandant-General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has deployed over 1,000 officers to safeguard farmers and their farmlands across the country, particularly in the northern states. This move has enabled farmers to cultivate and harvest their crops without fear of attacks from bandits and other criminal elements.

    CWAI Executive Secretary Omoba Kenneth Aigbegbele praised the NSCDC for its efforts, stating that the initiative has reduced insecurity in farming communities and increased food production. “The Agro-Rangers have been instrumental in mediating conflicts between farmers and herders, preventing malicious destruction of farmlands, and ensuring the safety of agricultural investments.”

    In addition to the Agro-Rangers, the NSCDC has also launched the Mining Marshals program to combat illegal mining and promote economic growth. The Federal Government recently deployed an additional 350 marshals to enhance the operational effectiveness of the squad.

    Since the inauguration of the marshals, over 200 illegal mining suspects have been arrested, with 135 prosecutions and confiscation of illegally mined resources. CWAI commended the NSCDC for its commitment to reforming the mining sector and generating revenue for the country.

    The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, emphasized the importance of the Mining Marshals in sanitizing the sector and boosting investors’ confidence. “The deployment of additional operatives will intensify efforts against illegal miners nationwide and ensure the country reaps the full benefits of its solid minerals for economic development.”

    The group stated that, Dr. Audi stressed the need for continuous training and deployments to ensure comprehensive coverage of the country’s vast mining areas. according to him “The NSCDC will not rest until the country is completely free from any form of insecurity.”

    However, CWAI endorsed the initiatives, urging the Federal Government to provide adequate funding for training, capacity development, and manpower development of the Agro-Rangers and Mining Marshals.

    “The populist approach of these initiatives will assist in fishing out hoodlums, rustlers, and bandits, promoting peaceful co-existence and economic growth,” Aigbegbele said.

    The Agro-Rangers Initiative has been particularly effective in states plagued by banditry and insecurity, such as Benue and Borno. Farmers in these areas can now access their farmlands with confidence, thanks to the protection provided by the Agro-Rangers.

    CWAI also noted that NSCDC’s collaboration with international organizations has bolstered efforts to safeguard agro-allied investments and boost the mining sector.

    The organization pledged to support the NSCDC in its efforts to tackle bandits, herders, and illegal miners, promoting a safe and secure environment for all.

    “NSCDC’s initiatives align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at diversifying the economy and promoting economic growth,” Aigbegbele said.

  • CSOs Demand Investigation of Delta State NSCDC Commandant’s Alleged Abuses, Extortion

    CSOs Demand Investigation of Delta State NSCDC Commandant’s Alleged Abuses, Extortion

    The African Leadership Strategy and Transparency Development Initiative, along with allied civil society organizations, has called for urgent action and investigation  against Mr. Suleiman A. Jimoh, the Delta State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    Addressing newsmen yesterday in Abuja, Comrade Nelson Ossaiege highlighted grave accusations of abuse of office, extortion, assault, and infringement of fundamental human rights under Mr. Jimoh’s command.

    He specifically cited the case of Mr. Nnamdi Okezie, who was illegally arrested, detained, and extorted.

    He further stated that Mr. Okezie’s ordeal sheds light on the alarming trend of arbitrary arrests and violence against Nigerians by NSCDC officers, allegedly orchestrated by Mr. Jimoh.

    Ossaiege said victims, including Mr. Okezie, reported being subjected to physical assault and threats, highlighting a culture of impunity within the ranks.

    He stressed that the call for action extends to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to overhaul the NSCDC and direct the Minister of Interior to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations.

    He said the demand underscores the need for accountability and respect for the rule of law within Nigeria’s security agencies.

    As the nation grapples with the need for reform and transparency, the groups further reaffirmed their support for President Tinubu’s administration and emphasized the imperative of addressing corruption within the public service.