DEFENCE
CDS Reaffirms Commitment to Upholding Principles Guiding Armed Forces
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, on Saturday night in Abuja reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the ideals and principles guiding the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Musa said this at the 37 Regular Course 38th anniversary of gratitude and the investiture of immediate past Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.
-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, as the Grand Patron of the Course.He expressed his belief that the success of the nation’s military life, not only in its operational progress but also in the unwavering support and trust of its veterans had been the bedrock of the nation’s defence.
“I remain committed to upholding the ideals and principles that have guided our armed forces throughout history.
“It is my solemn duty to ensure that the sacrifices made by each and every member of the service regular courses are duly acknowledged,” he said.
He added that the dedication and service of the armed forces veterans to the country, as well as their commitment to the ideals of duty, honour and loyalty had been source of encouragement.
“This is because they had been guarding the sovereignty of the country and protecting its citizens.
“Your actions both on and off the battlefield have set the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, serving as a channel example for all who have followed in your footsteps.
“Moreover, as we reflect upon the challenges faced by our Armed Forces throughout these years, it is impossible to overlook the pivotal role some regular course members have played in shaping the course of our military history.
“Your collective expert as strategic acumen and operational brilliance has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and security of our great nation.
“Nigeria stands tall today as a beacon of peace and stability in our region,” he said.
Lauding the immediate past COAS, Musa said that Yahaya’s influence and impact had continued to reverberate throughout the nation’s Armed Forces.
“The knowledge and experiences you have shared with your subordinates have shaped, the next generation of military leaders instilling in them the values of courage, discipline and resilience.
“You enduring legacy is not only measured by the battles fought and won, but also by the lives you have touched and indomitable spirit you have instilled in the military ranks.
“In recognising your remarkable achievement, it is important to acknowledge that the challenges we face in the realm of defence and security are ever evolving as we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected wall.
“It is imperative therefore that we continue to learn from wisdom and experiences from those who came before us.
“Your insights and counsels remain invaluable assets, and I assure you that your voice will continue to be heard and respected as we forge ahead in safeguarding our nation’s future,” he said.
Yahaya in his remarks appreciated his course mates for the honour done to him.
He said that the gesture of oneness and togetherness among the course 37 members had come a long way and appealed that it should not only be sustained but improved upon
“This gesture of oneness and togetherness have come a long way. We are talking about four decades of togetherness.
“So we should not relent but to continue and even seek better ways or more ways of improving in what we are doing. Time is changing, so we must move with time upon our mind and our hearts, not forgetting the essence.
“While this organisation is here. Every time we must reflect why and then continue to seek for improvement,” the former COAS said.
Earlier, the chairman of the occasion, retired Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, former Chief of Defence Staff, said that the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), had produced quality number of armed forces for the country.
He also said that the country had also nurtured a group of young Nigerians as military personnel, because while at NDA they picked degrees.
“So the modern day officers of the country forces are well educated. They are well connected with the needs of the community they have sworn to serve,” he said.
Also, Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu, President, 37 Regular Course, said that that the occasion was to celebrate and appreciate the former COAS for serving and representing them well.
He noted that the course had produced the highest number of two star generals in the history of the armed forces of Nigeria from 1964 to date.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Mrs Salamatu Faruk-Yahaya was also invested as the Queen Mother of the 37 Regular Course, while Mrs Appolonia Ezugwu was invested as the Matron. (NAN)
DEFENCE
Police Ban Covering of Vehicles, Motorcycles Registration Number Plates in Benue
In a bid to curb the escalating security situation, the Police Command in Benue, on Sunday ordered motorists and motorcyclists to stop covering their registration numbers plates.
The order was contained in a statement signed by the State’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, in Makurdi.
According to Anene, covering vehicle number plates was an offence and would be met with the appropriate sanctions.
“The practice of covering number plate has become increasingly prevalent in the state, and this is posing a significant security threat to the state, as criminals can take advantage of this practice to perpetuate crime and get away with it.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of police (CP), Benue State Command, Hassan Yabanet, has ordered all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders and Divisional Police Officers, to impound such vehicles for investigation and prosecution.
“Motorists are hereby advised to ensure that their vehicle registration number plates remain clearly visible at all times while driving within the state, to avoid any inconvenience that may be caused by the enforcement.
“Together, we can contribute to the promotion of public safety and the maintenance of law and order in Benue State.”the PPRO said in the statement. (NAN)
DEFENCE
Troops Rescue Abducted Kogi Varsity Students, others in Multiple Operations
The Nigerian Army says its troops have rescued the nine abducted students of the Confluence University of Science and Technology in Osara, Kogi State.
The army, in a post on its official X Handle on Sunday, said the troops in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes carried out a successful search and rescued the victims.
It said the troops encountered the scouts deployed by the kidnappers in the vicinity of the Osara Forests and nearby areas, resulting to a fierce fire fight.
According to the post, the superior fire power of the troops led to the kidnappers abandoning nine of the kidnapped students, who were subsequently rescued.
It said the troops had in a series of successful operations across the country, dealt substantial blows to terrorist groups and rescued several kidnap victims while a notorious militant surrendered.
The post also revealed that troops in the North West also rescued two persons abducted by terrorists in Danzara Village in Kanoma District in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara.
It said the troops demonstrated their rapid response capabilities, when they received a distress call on the abduction of the two locals by violent extremists.
According to the army, the terrorists, who had seized the victims in a red Golf car, were pursued by the troops but flee and abandon the hostages without harm in the cause of the confrontation with troops.
In Katsina State, the post revealed that the proactive efforts of the troops led to the rescue of 17 abducted victims in the Solar General Area of Batsari Local Government Area.
It said the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, compelling them to abandon the kidnap victims, who were later safely returned to the care of Batsari Local Government officials.
“In Borno, a notable incident occurred when Alhaji Wosai, identified as a notorious member of the Boko Haram Terrorists operating within the Garno Village, in Dikwa Local Government Area, voluntarily surrendered to troops.
“Wosai handed over his AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing two rounds of ammunition.
“These operations, highlight the relentless efforts of the Nigeria Army troops in combating terrorism and underscore their commitment to the safety and security of all citizens.
“Troops’ resolve in addressing the threat posed by terrorists and kidnappers remains unwavering, as they continue to work towards restoring peace and stability in the affected regions,” it said. (NAN)
DEFENCE
Gombe: Army Assesses Barracks Infrastructure, Restates Commitment to Troops, Veterans’ Welfare
A team from the Nigerian Army Headquarters, Department of Army Administration, on Wednesday visited the 301 Artillery Regiment (GS) in Gombe, to assess the state of barracks infrastructure in the state.
This is contained in a press statement issued in Gombe by Capt. Mazinho Attah, the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support).
Attah said that the Acting Deputy Chief of Administration (Army) Veterans Affairs Department (VAD), Brig .
Gen Umaru Alkali, led the team to the state.Attah quoted Alkali to have said that the visit was directed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, and aimed at improving facilities and enhancing the welfare of veterans and serving personnel.
“The visit is to address current conditions of legions, Nigerian Army cemeteries as well as command schools and hospitals,” he said.
He further highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Army leadership to ensure that troops and family welfare of serving and retired personnel remained top priority of the service.
While receiving the team, the Commander 301 Artillery Regiment, Colonel Musa Ahmed, briefed the team on the current conditions of facilities in Gombe State.
Ahmed noted the significance of completing ongoing projects at the new barracks and making it befitting for the regiment.
He further said that the assessment visit was crucial to boosting the morale of troops as well as impact positively on their living conditions.(NAN)