Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has issued a stern warning to officers and men of the division, declaring that he would not tolerate any compromise of professional standards under his command.

Major General Babalola, who officially assumed office on Tuesday, made this known during a brief handover ceremony in Lagos, where he pledged to sustain discipline, professionalism and operational excellence, while building on the achievements of his predecessor.

“For those who have worked with me, you should know that I do not compromise standards,” the GOC said. “Once we remain professional and refuse to lower our standards, you will not have any problem with me. But anyone who compromises standards will have me to contend with.”

Emphasising the expectations of Nigerians from the Armed Forces, Babalola recalled the words of a former Chief of Army Staff, noting that the military remained a national institution drawn from all parts of the country.

“We are all Nigerians, and Nigerians expect so much from the military. If we key into the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, we will achieve great success. The mantra is simple: mission success,” he stated.

The GOC stressed that there was no excuse for failure in the discharge of the Army’s constitutional responsibilities, describing the military as the backbone of national stability.

“All Nigerians expect so much from us. Every day, we must redouble our efforts to make Nigeria safe, support the democratic process and create an enabling environment for economic development to thrive,” he added.

Major General Babalola expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and paid glowing tribute to the outgoing GOC, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, whom he described as a highly respected, disciplined and professional officer.

He recalled that both officers shared a long professional history dating back to 1992 as cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy, adding that he had also worked under Mijinyawa at Army Headquarters and benefited immensely from his leadership.

“I am stepping into big shoes, but I will continue to consult with you from time to time,” Babalola said, assuring that the strong foundation laid by his predecessor had placed him on “very sound footing” to succeed.

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to national security, democratic governance and economic growth, urging officers and men to continually redouble their efforts in the discharge of their duties.

Earlier, the outgoing GOC, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, said the 81 Division recorded remarkable operational, training and administrative milestones during his 18 month tenure, attributing the successes to professionalism, discipline and effective inter-agency collaboration.

Describing his tenure as fulfilling, Mijinyawa said he was privileged to have worked with “some of the finest officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army,” whose dedication enabled the division to effectively deliver on its mandate under the motto, “Strength and Resilience.”

He disclosed that the division maintained optimal operational readiness throughout the period, contributing significantly to internal security operations and joint assignments across its area of responsibility.

“In the area of training, the division successfully conducted all activities outlined in the Nigerian Army focus of events,” he said, adding that the formation hosted four major Army level training exercises in 2025, including the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.

According to him, hosting the conference was a strong vote of confidence by Army Headquarters in the capacity and professionalism of the division.

On operations, Mijinyawa said the division effectively secured the South Western flank of the country, working closely with sister security agencies to maintain peace and stability in Lagos and Ogun states.

He disclosed that notable successes were recorded in reducing criminal activities through joint operations, including an ongoing joint international operation.

Administratively, the outgoing GOC said discipline within the division remained “very satisfactory,” with incidents of illegal duties by soldiers drastically reduced.

He also highlighted major infrastructural improvements facilitated by Army Headquarters, including the construction and renovation of accommodation for officers and soldiers, as well as enhanced lift capability to boost operational effectiveness.

Mijinyawa expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the confidence reposed in him, as well as to principal staff officers at Army Headquarters, divisional commanders, officers and soldiers, other security agencies, stakeholders and the media for their support.

Welcoming his successor, he described Major General Babalola as a seasoned officer and long-time colleague, expressing confidence that he would surpass existing achievements.

“I urge all officers and soldiers to give him maximum support and redouble their efforts,” he said, assuring that he remained available for consultations and advice.

He concluded by thanking officers and men of the division for their commitment and dedication, which he said enabled the formation to excel during his tenure.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, has recorded a significant victory in protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity and upholding commitments under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Operatives intercepted four live pangolins during a targeted patrol.

According to the press statement by Hussaini Abdullahi Chief Superintendent of Customs
Public Relations Officer, at approximately 18:33 hours on Thursday, January 15, 2026, a patrol team—acting on credible intelligence—stopped a wooden boat laden with the pangolins in wire mesh cages along the waterways of Alapa Creek, Ajilete. The caged animals indicated a deliberate smuggling syndicate. Upon spotting the officers, the suspects fled into the creeks, abandoning both the pangolins and the boat.

To ensure the animals’ welfare, the seized endangered species were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for safekeeping on January 16, 2026, at 07:00 hours. The handover was performed by Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, DC AO Oguntuase, on behalf of Comptroller FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu.

Comptroller Aliyu praised the officers’ courage and professionalism during the nighttime operation. He urged all personnel to remain vigilant against trans-border crimes.

Comptroller Aliyu reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and partnering with stakeholders to eradicate trade in endangered species.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, commended the officers for their dedication to CITES enforcement. He emphasized that the interception highlights his administration’s zero-tolerance stance against saboteurs undermining Nigeria’s CITES compliance and economic stability.

The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to an online publication alleging that soldiers are threatening mutiny over salaries and allowances. We view the report published by Sahara Reporters as false, misleading and deliberately sensational, designed to undermine public confidence and national security.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, at no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Nigerian Army. Mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel, who remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The report relied solemnly on anonymous, unverifiable claims circulated through non-official channels. Such narratives do not represent the views, conduct or disposition of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, who are trained to channel grievances through established military procedures rather than public platforms.

For avoidance of doubt, it is important to clarify that promotion increments are only one component of military remuneration and should not be misrepresented as total earnings. Military pay comprises consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances and other entitlements that vary by deployment, qualification and responsibilities.

The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government authorities, continues to implement structured welfare reforms, including periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care, and insurance packages for troops and their families. Issues relating to allowances are continuously reviewed within approved government frameworks.

The Chief of Army Staff on assumption of duty has initiated positive engagements with the appropriate authority on troops welfare. This is already yielding progressive outcomes.

Contrary to claims of neglect, the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges.

The Nigerian Army remains a cohesive, disciplined and professional force, fully focused on its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting internal security operations. Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security.

The public is urged to disregard such unfounded reports and rely on official communication channels for accurate information concerning the Armed Forces especially the Nigerian Army.

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Dr. Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, commending his exemplary leadership and far-reaching reforms that have repositioned the Service.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President described the milestone as a celebration of decades of dedicated national service, marked by landmark institutional reforms since Dr. Adeniyi assumed office as Comptroller-General.

President Tinubu noted that under Dr. Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS has been steadily transformed into a globally competitive and relevant institution, a feat underscored by his election as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in June 2025.

The President praised the Customs boss for elevating Nigeria’s and Africa’s profile on the global stage through inclusive, pragmatic and charismatic leadership at the WCO, as well as his success in mobilising Customs administrations and key stakeholders toward the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) via the C-PACT platform.

He further highlighted the integration of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programme in Nigeria, with WCO support, noting its impact on faster cargo clearance, improved revenue performance and stronger partnerships with traders. The President also acknowledged the adoption of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards to secure and facilitate global trade.

According to the President, the ongoing internal reforms within the NCS driven by automation and digitisation, enhanced training and capacity building for officers, strategic diplomacy and adherence to global best practices have yielded significant improvements in trade facilitation and revenue generation.

President Tinubu also commended Dr. Adeniyi’s visionary leadership for fostering better community relations, consistently surpassing revenue targets, strengthening trade partnerships with countries and multilateral institutions, and improving security along Nigeria’s borders.

As Dr. Adeniyi marks his 60th birthday, the President prayed that God Almighty would grant him continued good health, strength and wisdom to sustain his service to the nation.

Abu Dhabi Ports Group and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore strategic collaboration in ports development, maritime logistics, and digital solutions.

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR, The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the recently concluded Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria–UAE economic relations.

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola CON, led the Nigerian delegation, while the Chairman of AD Ports Group, H.E. Mohamed Hassan, led the Group’s management team. Also present was the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA Dr Dayo Mobereola.

The delegation subsequently briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the details and strategic importance of the MoU.

The agreement, which had been under consideration for over two decades, forms part of the broader trade and investment engagements between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates. Its signing represents a renewed commitment by both countries to deepen cooperation in the maritime and blue economy sectors.

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, has rolled out a mandatory weekly physical fitness programme for all officers and men of the Command, in a move aimed at strengthening wellness, discipline and operational effectiveness.

The initiative, which takes place every Thursday, aligns with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs to build a healthier, physically resilient and mentally alert workforce capable of meeting the demanding responsibilities of the Service.

Speaking at the official launch on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Deputy Comptroller Afeni noted that the nature of Customs duties often involving long hours, strenuous field operations and high-pressure assignments makes intentional attention to health and fitness non-negotiable.

According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Ogun I Area Command, DSC Chado Zakari, the exercise programme is designed to ensure that officers remain physically fit and mentally sharp in the discharge of their duties to the nation.

“This is not a one-off activity,” Afeni stressed. “By institutionalising weekly exercise sessions, we are promoting teamwork, informal interaction, discipline and service readiness. Fitness is becoming a culture here because a fit team is a formidable team.”

The Deputy Comptroller reaffirmed that staff welfare remains a top priority under his leadership, urging officers to fully embrace physical fitness as an integral part of their professional lives.

The maiden exercise session featured jogging, aerobics, football and volleyball, while also serving as a platform to reduce stress, strengthen camaraderie and boost morale across the Command.

Beyond physical wellbeing, the initiative is expected to enhance unity, improve productivity and reinforce the overall effectiveness of the Ogun I Area Command.

In line with its commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has partnered with Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, to plant trees at Elegushi Beach, Lekki, Lagos.

The intervention was implemented as part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP). It was funded and administered by the newly inducted employees, referred to as the Vault Class, who selected this initiative for their community impact project. The bank provided matching financial support to ensure the project’s successful execution.

Speaking during the event, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, highlighted the bank’s resolve to consistently champion initiatives that preserve the environment and reduce the impact of climate change.

“Environmental preservation is a key CSR pillar for us at Fidelity Bank. We believe that protecting the earth is a shared responsibility. That is why this initiative is not a one-time activity, but part of our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable best practices,” Nwagboh said. “We are committed to ensuring that our environment, including marine habitats, remains protected from pollution and degradation.”

In addition to planting trees, the Fidelity Bank team conducted a beach clean-up exercise to remove waste materials from the shoreline and surrounding marine areas. Nwagboh further noted that the bank continues to support environmental conservation through various initiatives nationwide and remains a proud partner of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).

“Tree planting is an integral part of our climate action and resilience plan, and our goal is to consistently expand our environment-friendly operations.” Nwagboh added. “We are delighted for this partnership with Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative. It is one we intend to nurture, as we believe there’s more to be done to protect our environment.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Chinedu Mogbo, Founder of Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, commended Fidelity Bank for its proactive commitment to environmental sustainability. He emphasized that the partnership aligns with the NGO’s mission to foster safer, cleaner environments for both humans and wildlife.

“Our partnership with Fidelity Bank is driven by a shared mission to create a safer, greener environment for both humans and wildlife. Beyond enhancing environmental safety, planting trees contributes to beautifying our surroundings and restoring balance to nature.” Mogbo stated.

The exercise marks another significant step in Fidelity Bank’s environmental CSR efforts aimed at promoting sustainable living across communities, combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and conserving aquatic ecosystems.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has announced that a total of 1,185 films were approved and classified between January and December 2025, underscoring sustained growth and activity within Nigeria’s film industry.

According to the annual classification report, the films approved during the year spanned a wide range of genres and languages, reflecting both the vibrancy of local film production and the continued submission of foreign-language content for classification in Nigeria. By comparison, the Board classified 1,088 films in 2024, indicating a consistently high level of industry engagement.

According to the signed press release by Ogbonna Onwumere
Director, Corporate Affairs.
For: National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) “English-language films accounted for the highest number of approvals throughout the year, reaffirming their dominance in Nigeria’s film production landscape. Yoruba and Igbo films followed, while Hausa and other indigenous Nigerian language films appeared less frequently.

The report, however, noted a broader representation of indigenous languages such as Nupe, Berom, and Gbagyi particularly in September 2025, highlighting Nigeria’s cultural diversity. Foreign-language films, including those in Hindi, French, and Japanese, were also classified during the year.

In terms of audience classification, the data reveal a strong concentration of 15 and 18 ratings across all months, indicating that most films approved in 2025 were targeted at mature audiences. Family-friendly classifications such as G, PG, and 12A were comparatively fewer, suggesting limited production of children’s and general-audience content during the year.

Monthly analysis showed that May 2025 recorded the highest number of film approvals, with 173 titles classified. Overall trends for the year indicate :a consistent dominance of English-language films in monthly approvals;
A clear majority of films classified under mature ratings (15 and 18);
Growing, though still limited, inclusion of indigenous Nigerian languages beyond the major ones.

Commenting on the report, the NFVCB reiterated its commitment to encouraging greater diversity in film production, particularly increased investment in family-friendly content and wider use of Nigeria’s indigenous languages. This aligns with the Executive Director’s ongoing emphasis on promoting cultural representation and inclusivity within the nation’s film industry. The Board had in a bid to encourage more indigenous language films reduced the classification fees of indigenous language films outside of Igbo, Youruba and Hausa.

The Board further affirmed that the 2025 classification figures demonstrate sustained momentum in Nigeria’s film sector and reaffirm the NFVCB’s role in ensuring responsible content classification while supporting industry growth.

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The Federal Government has conferred various honours on serving personnel and veterans of the Nigerian Army in recognition of gallantry, sacrifice, innovation, exemplary leadership and post-service contributions to national development.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the awards were presented during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Gala Night held at the Banquet Hall State House on Tuesday, 13 January, 2026, in Abuja.

Among the recipients was the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutrnant General Waidi Shaibu, who received the Service and Sacrifice Award for exemplifying selfless service and providing decisive leadership in counter-insurgency and internal security operations across multiple theatres.

Other recipients of the Service and Sacrifice Award include Major General Abdulsalami Enesi Abubakar, Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI and Major General Faruk Mijinyawa, General Officer Commanding, 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Lagos, for their exceptional operational leadership and dedication to duty.

Brigadier General Musa Uba was posthumously honoured with the Gallantry Award for displaying exceptional courage and leading troops from the front during counter-insurgency operations in Borno State, while Brigadier General Usman Ahmad received the Mission Success Award for his critical role in repelling repeated terrorist attacks and sustaining operational effectiveness under intense pressure.

In the area of innovation, Colonel Ibrahim Mohammed Gero received the Innovation Award for developing and deploying a redesigned ballistic gunboat that significantly enhanced operational effectiveness in support of Operation DELTA SAFE.

Late Colonel B Umaru was posthumously awarded the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Excellence Award for his outstanding intelligence leadership during Operation HADIN KAI, while late Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Ebisingha Alari received the Fallen Heroes Award for his gallantry and pivotal role in major counter-terrorism operations in the North-East.

In the veterans’ category, former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutrnant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), was honoured with the Legacy (Service and Sacrifice) Award for his reforms and expansion of operational capacity during his tenure from 2015 to 2021, as well as his subsequent diplomatic service as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.

Also honoured was Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), who received the Sentinel of Freedom Award for his contributions to strategic military communication, peacekeeping operations and sustained advocacy for veterans’ welfare, national security and civic values.

Major General Mohammed Sadiq Aliyu (rtd) received the Phoenix Award for resilience and exceptional leadership, having continued to render distinguished service despite being wounded in action during counter-insurgency operations.

Colonel Olubunmi Oyekola (rtd) was honoured with the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award for successfully translating military discipline and logistics expertise into a thriving catering and hospitality enterprise, while Colonel Bartholomew Chukwuemeka Ogbonna (rtd) received the Community Champion Award for his commitment to grassroots development, healthcare support, water projects and youth mobilisation for service in the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

Master Warrant Officer Manu Garba was also awarded the Distinguished Citizen Service Medal for his 35 years of meritorious service in the Nigerian Army and his sustained post-retirement community development initiatives.

The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is an annual event dedicated to honouring fallen heroes, recognising serving personnel and celebrating veterans whose courage, professionalism and sacrifice continue to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity and national resilience.