Author: Dodo Elias Denen

In a major move to bolster Nigeria’s economic security, the Nigerian Navy has officially transitioned from Operation DELTA SANITY II to a new, more robust phase titled Operation DELTA SENTINEL.

This transition follows a highly successful 2025 campaign that saw the Navy recover stolen petroleum products valued at over ₦3.65 billion. During the formal flag-off ceremony, the CTG 25.1 who is the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral CD Okehie revealed that the outgoing operation resulted in the arrest of 203 suspects and the deactivation of 324 illegal refining sites, contributing to the lowest crude oil losses reported in Nigeria since 2009.

​The outgoing commander further highlighted that between January and December 2025, the Navy seized over 3.7 million litres of stolen crude oil and destroyed an extensive network of criminal infrastructure, including 91 wooden boats and 732 illegal ovens. These efforts, supported by the visionary leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, have not only protected national revenue but have also significantly enhanced Nigeria’s international reputation as a reliable energy producer.

The operation’s success was attributed to the integration of advanced maritime surveillance and strong collaboration with host communities and sister security agencies.

​Taking over the mandate, the Commander of Task Group 26.1, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, emphasized that Operation DELTA SENTINEL is designed to align with the Federal Government’s “Project 1mbpd” initiative, which aims to aggressively increase national oil production. The new operation will run for an initial period of one year, focusing on deep offshore developments and protecting the evolving portfolios of International Oil Companies (IOCs).

Admiral Ibrahim noted that with oil production targets set for 2.5 mbpd by 2027, the Navy will intensify its use of technology-enabled surveillance, including manned and unmanned air assets. ​The new command has declared a zero-tolerance policy toward economic sabotage, vowing to make the Niger Delta increasingly hostile to oil thieves and maritime criminals.

While the previous operation successfully reduced average daily crude oil losses by 90% since 2021, Operation DELTA SENTINEL aims to drive those figures even lower. Rear Admiral Ibrahim reiterated NN’s commitment to professional engagement with host communities, stating that success will ultimately be measured by sustained increases in crude oil production and the continued stability of Nigeria’s maritime domain under the strategic direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a renewed commitment to strengthen environmental protection across
Nigeria, Sterling One Foundation, in collaboration with Sterling Bank, Sunbeth, government agencies, community volunteers, and partner organizations, spearheaded a nationwide Environmental Cleanup and Beach Adoption exercise on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

The initiative, which is in line with the United Nations Decade of Action, spanned 17 states, including Wuse Market in Abuja, Alpha Beach in Lagos, and communities across 15 other states, reinforcing the need for consistent, community-led action to combat all forms of plastic and waste pollution and restore the health of Nigeria’s environment. Across these locations, hundreds of volunteers, environmental experts, youth groups, and government representatives came together to remove waste, promote recycling awareness, and advocate for responsible waste disposal practices.

Tunde Akande, Business Executive, Institutional Banking, Sterling Bank, Abuja, speaking on the relevance of the cleanup project, stated, “Maintaining a clean and safe city depends heavily on sustained local participation. The effort in Abuja, where residents and institutions work hand-in-hand, truly embodies communal responsibility and environmental pride.”

Engr. Braimah Osilama, Director of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, represented by Omenta Rachael Chinenye, Head, Community Sanitation & Education, Environmental Health & Safety Department, also mentioned, “This partnership-driven initiative is vital for long-term environmental progress. We deeply appreciate the volunteers’ commitment because lasting change requires continuous education, community engagement, and strong institutional support.”

At the Lagos beach cleanup, Akporee Idenedo, Divisional Head, Commercial Banking, Sterling Bank, remarked, “The collective energy from residents and stakeholders is inspiring. Sterling Bank remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that protect public spaces and elevate the quality of life in Nigerian communities. Our Sterling Environmental Makeover (STEM) program has thrived for over a decade, and we will continue prioritizing environmental sustainability in all our actions.”

Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, reflected during the Lagos beach cleanup, “This nationwide effort is a powerful demonstration of what Nigerians can achieve when united by purpose. We are proud of every volunteer across the country; each act of service, big or small, shapes a cleaner and healthier future for Nigeria. The Foundation is committed to deepening environmental awareness, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring ongoing action.”

Across all 18 locations, volunteers collected plastic waste, cleared debris, and engaged in environmental awareness sessions on recycling, waste sorting, and responsible disposal practices.

About Sterling Bank Limited
Sterling Bank is a full-service national commercial bank in Nigeria and a member of Sterling Financial Holdings Group. With a heritage of more than 60 years, the bank has evolved from Nigeria’s pre-eminent investment banking institution to a trusted provider of retail, commercial, and corporate banking services.

Sterling is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions, exceptional service, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast focus on its HEART strategy, which centers on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

As pioneers in digital banking and financial inclusion, Sterling continues to lead by example, showing how purpose-driven leadership can deliver transformative outcomes for individuals, businesses, and society at large.

Guided by a culture of innovation and a passion for excellence, Sterling Bank remains dedicated to redefining the banking experience for millions of customers across Nigeria. For more information visit https://sterling.ng/

Sterling One Foundation is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across three critical sectors namely: health, education and climate action & food security. Gender Equality and women empowerment are integrated as a cross-cutting priority across all our programming areas. The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing
partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Nigerian Navy has called for increased collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA in the area of hydrography to sustain improved safety of navigation in Nigerian waters.

The Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command (FOC-WNC), Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, made this call during a familiarization visit to NIMASA Headquarters, where he also acknowledged the gains recorded from NIMASA’s longstanding partnership with the Nigerian Navy.

Rear Admiral Mustapha noted that “the longstanding and unwavering partnership NIMASA has maintained with the Nigerian Navy has culminated in the current tranquility being witnessed within the Nigerian maritime domain, and it is a clear testament to the strength of this partnership.”

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR, the FOC stated that enhanced information sharing through the integration of NIMASA’s C4i Centre with the Navy’s Falcon Eye system would significantly improve security within the nation’s maritime domain.

Speaking further, Rear Admiral Mustapha said: “I would like to use this opportunity to commend NIMASA for providing and maintaining platforms under the Deep Blue Project, which are operated by the Nigerian Navy. This has greatly enhanced our operations.”

He added that the two newly acquired hydrographic vessels, with the capability to identify the exact location and size of wrecks, would significantly enhance NIMASA’s operations in wreck removal.

According to him, “Utilizing advanced vessels such as NNS Lana and NNS Ochuzor has undoubtedly contributed to improved safety standards within the maritime sector. It is therefore important that we jointly sustain these standards through deeper collaboration with NIMASA.”

In his response, the DG/CEO NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the improved security in Nigeria’s territorial waters as the backbone of President Bola Tinubu administration’s economic diversification policy.

According to him, “the maritime sector is at the forefront of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as well as the Federal Government’s economic diversification policy and it is our shared obligation (NIMASA and the Navy) to deliver a safe and secure maritime space for maritime activities to thrive. Accordingly, achieving optimum security levels in our maritime area is the backbone of these aims and is what gives shipping companies the confidence to invest in the sector”.

The NIMASA DG also acknowledged the support of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, noting that his unwavering commitment to the development of the Blue Economy sector has continued to yield results.

In a renewed push to curb smuggling and other cross-border economic crimes, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has officially handed over a total of 372 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), following a series of coordinated anti-smuggling operations within its area of responsibility.

The handover, carried out on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, was in strict compliance with the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures. According to a press statement signed by the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry, Navy Captain B.O. Omotayo, the seizures were distributed to relevant Customs formations for further necessary action.

Specifically, 302 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice were handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, while an additional 70 bags of 50kg were transferred to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command.

The successful operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s statutory role in supporting civil authorities to combat smuggling, safeguard national economic interests, and maintain security across Nigeria’s maritime and border corridors.

Since assuming office, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has consistently articulated a strategic vision of building a highly professional and responsive naval force, working in synergy with sister security agencies to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain.

In line with this vision, FOB Badagry has sustained intensive patrols and intelligence-driven operations across coastal waters and adjoining land areas. These efforts are anchored on professionalism, dedication, and strong collaboration with host communities, sister services, and other security agencies to counter transnational crimes and other threats to the nation’s economy.

The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation and maintaining relentless pressure on smugglers and economic saboteurs operating within Nigeria’s maritime environment.

The coast appears to be clearing for the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming off-cycle election in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has formally endorsed his candidacy.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Monday, the Southwest Zone D Coordinator of NANS, Owolewa Taiwo, said the endorsement was largely influenced by Oyebamiji’s clean and credible educational background, which, according to him, would enhance his capacity to attract competent and qualified individuals into governance.

The student body expressed strong confidence in Oyebamiji’s leadership style, noting their belief that he would not depend on cronies or sycophants in running the affairs of the state.

As part of the endorsement, NANS announced the launch of a youth and students’ movement to mobilise support for Oyebamiji, citing his consistent commitment to youth development, education and sustained engagement with students.

“His impeccable antecedents and outstanding records of excellence in public service reflect a leader who understands governance from the people’s perspective,” Taiwo stated.

The association further noted that Oyebamiji has consistently demonstrated that governance should be inclusive, with benefits extending to all segments of society, including students, women, artisans, professionals and civil servants.
They commended his vision of running an inclusive government that ensures equitable distribution of resources across Osun State.

NANS maintained that Oyebamiji’s sterling educational background inspires confidence in his ability to attract qualified personnel from across the state, rather than governing through narrow interests, factions or divisions.

Beyond the Osun governorship endorsement, the students also applauded President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to the welfare and education of Nigerian students under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

They specifically acknowledged initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden on students, particularly the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which they said has enabled many students to remain in school.

The students also expressed appreciation for empowerment programmes such as the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, which are designed to equip Nigerian youths with skills for global competitiveness.

“These policies reflect a government that understands that investing in students is investing in the future of Nigeria,” NANS added.

Tier-one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to community development and educational empowerment with the donation of essential learning materials to schoolchildren in Makoko Community, Yaba, Lagos under its Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP).

The outreach, which was facilitated by the bank’s Legal Services Division, saw the presentation of school bags, notebooks, mathematical sets, writing materials, and other learning materials to pupils of Makoko Anglican Nursery and Primary School; Aiyetoro Nursery and Primary School, and Adekunle Anglican Nursery and Primary School in Lagos.

Speaking during the presentation, Divisional Head of Legal Services, Fidelity Bank Plc, Kingsley Ohiri, explained that the gesture forms part of Fidelity Bank’s broader CSR initiatives centered on empowering young people, supporting education, and enhancing social welfare in vulnerable communities.

“The Fidelity Helping Hands Program is our staff volunteer program that enables employees to identify and execute impactful CSR projects,” he said. “Through this program, staff volunteers from the Legal Services Division are here today in Makoko to distribute back-to-school materials such as school bags, notebooks, pencils and other essential learning tools. This aligns strongly with one of our CSR pillars: education.”

Ohiri further emphasized the bank’s focus on improving access to quality education for children in public schools, especially those from indigent backgrounds.

“Over 500 school bags, more than 2,000 exercise books and several other learning items were distributed today. We at Fidelity Bank are proud to give back to Makoko community. We believe that by supporting these pupils with the tools they need to learn, we are helping to build a stronger future for the pupils, the community and Nigeria,” Ohiri added.

Aimed at enhancing the learning experience of children in one of Lagos’ most underserved riverine communities, the gesture received warm appreciation from school leaders, teachers, and parents who
expressed gratitude for the bank’s support.

“We sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank for selecting our school as one of the beneficiaries. This gesture will go a long way in helping our pupils improve academically. Recognizing students who placed 1st to 10th in their classes is also a great motivation for our children”, stated the Head Teacher of Adekunle Nursery and Primary School, Mrs. Tinubu Abimbola.

Similarly, the School Manager of Makoko Anglican Nursery and Primary School, Mr. Laoye Joseph, described the donation as a profound act of compassion and responsibility, saying, “We truly appreciate Fidelity Bank and the continuous support for the educational development of our children. Many families here struggle to provide basic learning materials due to economic hardship, so this intervention is highly impactful. We pray that God continues to uplift the bank.”

Teachers present at the event also noted that many pupils often attend classes without basic supplies, a challenge that affects participation and performance. They commended Fidelity Bank for easing the financial burden on parents, especially amid rising household expenses.

Through FHHP, Fidelity Bank Plc’s staff identify impactful projects in their communities and raise funds to support them. The bank’s management matches these contributions, amplifying their reach and impact.

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 attention of Army Headquarters has been drawn to an outright misrepresentation of facts on the recent visit by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks. The submission by Sahara Reporters with the headline “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta” is misleading, malicious and should be disregarded. It is also important to unequivocally state that the COAS did not express concern nor raise any alarm in any quarter on alleged rising cases of pipeline vandalism as portrayed in the misleading account.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, “For the record, the COAS, while addressing troops on Friday, 9 January 2025, at 6 Division, Port Harcourt, said: “Your job here is very key to protecting critical national infrastructure, and once you do that job very well, it will impact positively on the economy of the country.” The Army Chief stressed that, “So you need to take your job very seriously, be disciplined, committed and dedicated to the mandate of this Division. While you do that, be assured I will take care of your welfare issues, which are topmost priorities as captured in my Command Philosophy.

“Some of the challenges raised by your commanders were addressed immediately; for instance, the issue of accommodation. We have approved the construction of additional accommodation, the renovation of certain quarters and the completion of some ongoing projects.” He added, “Once this is done, it will go a long way in mitigating some of the accommodation challenges that are here.” He maintained that, “In terms of quality education for your children, that is all being looked into and in turn, we expect you to do your job conscientiously. So listen to your officers; they will guide you and lead you right.”

The COAS while fielding questions from the press revealed, “Normally, I go round various Divisions to see officers and men, interact with them and ensure their combat readiness. So I am here in the 6 Division area of responsibility for my maiden operational visit to see what the troops are doing, to look at their challenges and see how we can address them headlong so that they can go about doing their jobs seriously.”

He further assured that some of the challenges raised during the visit would be promptly addressed.
“I have looked at some of the challenges they have raised; some were addressed immediately, while others will be addressed immediately we get to Abuja.” He further said, “I want you to continue to do your jobs conscientiously. Your jobs around here involve the protection of critical national infrastructure, which impacts our economy, so once you do your job very well, everything will be fine.”

Furthermore, it is important to restate that media houses whose stock in trade is to arm-twist narratives to project their adversarial posture are hereby enjoined to check the veracity of their facts before placing them in the public domain. For clarity, the COAS did not raise alarm over rising cases of pipeline vandalism as reported. Parameters on ground, security-wise, indicated a commendable security efforts at checking the menace of oil theft and pipeline vandalism across the region. These efforts have significantly led to sustained exploration activities in the oil and gas sector, in the interest of the nation’s economy.

Members of the public are called upon to disregard such subtle but futile attempts at downplaying security efforts that are yielding positive results across the region. Additionally, the good people of the region are urged to continue to provide credible intelligence on the activities of economic saboteurs in their domain to security agencies for prompt response.

A voluntary and precautionary recall of specific batches of Nestlé Infant Formula has been announced in some countries, and we understand that this may have raised questions.

According to a statement signed by the Corporate Affairs Manager Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Toju Egbebi, “We would like to clarify that Infant Formula sold by Nestlé Nigeria is not part of the voluntary and precautionary recall of specific batches of Infant Formula announced in some countries.

We want to emphasize that the Nestlé Infant Formula products sold by Nestlé Nigeria and officially registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) are not affected by this recall.

We would like to reassure that all SMA (SMA Gold 1, SMA Gold 2 and SMA Gold 3) and NAN product ranges (NAN Optipro 1, NAN Optipro 2 and NAN Optipro 3) sold by Nestlé Nigeria are safe for consumption.

The safety and quality of our products, and the health of babies, are our top priorities.

For additional information please contact:
Corporate.Communications@NG.nestle.com

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International Nigeria (TI Nigeria) have commended the United Kingdom government for its role in combating corruption and illicit financial flows following the recovery of $9.5 million in stolen Nigerian assets.

In a statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisations described the recovery as a positive demonstration of international cooperation consistent with Nigeria’s Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), 2022.

According to CISLAC and TI Nigeria, POCA provides Nigeria with a comprehensive legal framework for tracing, freezing, confiscating, managing, and recovering proceeds of crime, both within the country and from foreign jurisdictions. The law remains Nigeria’s principal instrument for ensuring that criminals do not benefit from corruption or other financial crimes, particularly funds looted and concealed abroad.

The organisations added that the latest recovery underscores the importance of mutual legal assistance and cross-border collaboration, which are central objectives of POCA, describing such cooperation as critical to strengthening Nigeria’s asset recovery efforts and deterring illicit financial flows.

While welcoming the return of the stolen funds, CISLAC and TI Nigeria expressed concern over the utilisation and management of recovered assets. The statement noted that despite significant asset recoveries over the past decade, Nigerians continue to experience limited access to information on how recovered funds are deployed.

The organisations stated that citizens remain dissatisfied with the level of transparency surrounding recovered assets, stressing that civil society groups have developed accountability frameworks aligned with POCA to prevent re-looting and ensure recovered funds are used for the public good.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria emphasised that we must focus not only on recovering looted funds but on blocking lapses that allow theft in the first place. Nigeria must take illicit financial flows seriously. With estimated annual losses of $18 billion, the country cannot rely on recovery efforts alone. Financial institutions and systems must be thoroughly sanitised to prevent looters and ensure that taxpayers’ money does not exit the country illegally. Nigeria accounts for a large percentage of illicit financial flows in Africa, and allowing this situation to continue directly contributes to poverty and deficits in infrastructure development.

The statement further noted that these systemic vulnerabilities have global consequences. Nigerians often face suspicion and discrimination abroad because their information, certifications, and data are routinely questioned, reflecting the lack of credibility caused by domestic financial mismanagement. Strengthening accountability, transparency, and enforcement would protect national wealth, restore international confidence, and reduce the negative perception of Nigerian citizens globally.

Key accountability measures required to guarantee transparency include independent monitoring and oversight of recovered assets, public disclosure of Memoranda of Understanding guiding asset repatriation, and clear information on where and how recovered funds will be spent. Public reporting, regular auditing, and strict sanctions against any individuals involved in the re-looting of recovered proceeds of crime, as provided under POCA, are essential.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria emphasised that recovered assets should be lodged in dedicated accounts to enable proper tracking and accountability. Once recovered funds are paid into the general government account, transparency becomes difficult, and the process risks being absorbed into routine government spending without adequate oversight.

The organisations welcomed the latest recovery and urged the Nigerian government to fully implement the Proceeds of Crime Act and honour its commitments under the Global Forum on Asset Recovery, where Nigeria pledged to ensure that recovered assets are managed transparently and used to improve citizens’ welfare.

The statement also called for independent oversight by the National Assembly to ensure that recovered funds are effectively traced, tracked, and measured in line with POCA’s objectives. It noted that accountability becomes nearly impossible when recovered assets are merged into regular government expenditure without clear reporting mechanisms.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria highlighted ongoing challenges faced by civil society organisations, particularly limited access to timely and accurate information on recovered assets. The groups urged the government to improve transparency by providing clearer and more consistent data, noting that openness would also help counter misinformation, rumours, and fake news.

While describing the asset recovery as a positive development for Nigeria’s financial system, the organisations warned that weak enforcement continues to undermine existing laws. They noted that Nigeria still loses significant amounts of stolen funds due to prolonged litigation, institutional weaknesses, and procedural delays.

The statement concluded by urging the government to prioritise the effective implementation of the Proceeds of Crime Act, strengthen institutions, block financial leakages, and prevent looting to safeguard public resources and ensure that recovered assets deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

The Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army Engineers, in collaboration with 9 Brigade, on Saturday, 10 January 2026, hosted a colourful and well-attended combined West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the iconic TA Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja, Lagos.

The annual event brought together senior military officers, soldiers, families, sister security agencies, government officials, and traditional stakeholders in a celebration of unity, culture, and operational excellence within the Nigerian Army.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, praised the Nigerian Army for its relentless commitment to national and regional security.

He noted that troops across the country have remained fully engaged in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, internal security operations, intensive training programmes, parades, workshops, and administrative responsibilities throughout the year.

According to him, such demanding schedules make it imperative for soldiers and their families to periodically unwind and reconnect in a relaxed environment.

“The WASA celebration provides a befitting conclusion to the year’s demanding activities. It allows our gallant troops to relax, celebrate their achievements, and share joy with their loved ones after months of selfless service,” he said.

The governor described WASA as a cherished cultural legacy dating back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, designed to promote unity, camaraderie, and a strong sense of belonging among troops and their families.

He added that the tradition not only strengthens bonds within the barracks community but also enhances the relationship between the military and its host communities, while mentally and socially preparing personnel for renewed commitment in the new year.

Commending the colourful cultural displays and performances, the governor applauded the soldiers for showcasing remarkable creativity beyond their military duties.

“Today’s performances highlight the richness of our heritage and the diversity that binds us together as one nation. I am impressed by the talent and versatility displayed by our troops,” he said, expressing confidence that the objectives of the 2025 WASA had been fully achieved.

He concluded by appreciating the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, officers, soldiers, civilian staff, families, and sister security agencies for their collective efforts and dedication.

In his opening remarks, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, warmly welcomed guests on behalf of officers and soldiers of the division and Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers.

He described WASA as a long-standing Nigerian Army tradition that draws the curtain on the year’s activities, promotes regimentation, and strengthens unity among personnel and their families.

Major General Mijinyawa congratulated officers and soldiers of the division for what he described as a highly successful 2025, marked by outstanding achievements in training, administration, and operations.

He disclosed that the division effectively executed all training activities outlined in the Nigerian Army Training Directive 2025 and successfully hosted several major army-level events, including:
Conversion Board 2025 for Nigerian Army Officers in Abeokuta; Senior Command and Leadership Seminar; Pre-Retirement and Business Seminar in Lagos; The prestigious Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025.

On operations, the GOC revealed that the division, in synergy with other security agencies, conducted sustained internal security operations that ensured peace and stability within its area of responsibility.

He further disclosed that, in line with ECOWAS protocols, the division swiftly deployed troops in December 2025 to support the Benin Republic, where Nigerian soldiers are currently conducting joint operations with their Beninese counterparts.

“I commend the professionalism, discipline, and dedication of every officer and soldier of this division. I am proud of you all, and I urge you to sustain this tempo in the new year,” he said.

Reflecting on his impending completion of tour of duty as GOC, Major General Mijinyawa expressed deep appreciation to officers, soldiers, and their families for their sacrifices and unwavering support. He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his strategic guidance and timely provision of resources.

The GOC acknowledged the support of Lagos and Ogun State Governments, particularly through Operation MESA, as well as traditional rulers, host communities, and members of the press for their cooperation throughout 2025.

Charging troops to remain steadfast in the year ahead, he urged them to redouble efforts toward safeguarding lives and property within the division’s area of responsibility.

The event was graced by senior serving and retired military officers, including representatives of the Western Naval Command, led by the Chief Staff Officer, Rear Admiral Nnamdi Christiantus Ekwom, on behalf of the Flag Officer Commanding.

Other notable dignitaries included Senator Musiliu Olatunde Obanikoro (Koro), Commander NNS BEECROFT, Rear Admiral Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, Air Commodore MA Imam, and several other stakeholders across the security architecture.