Author: Dodo Elias Denen

Lagos witnessed an evening of glamour, recognition, and renewed commitment to national security as top government officials, security chiefs, media executives, and civil society leaders recently gathered at Shoregate Hotel Event Hall in GRA Ikeja for the prestigious RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards. The event, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most credible platforms for celebrating excellence in public service and security sector collaboration, became a defining moment for the Lagos State Police Command as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, emerged as Best Commissioner of Police in Anti-Crime Operations.

The award ceremony, held in Lagos amidst tight security and an atmosphere of elegance, was more than a celebration of individual achievement. It was a powerful affirmation of the growing synergy between security agencies, the media, and the public in the collective fight against crime. For the Lagos Police Command, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh stood out as a public validation of months, indeed years of sustained operations, strategic reforms, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement under the current leadership.

From the moment the Lagos CP Jimoh arrived at the venue, it was evident that the event would be special. Accompanied by senior officers of the command, the police boss received warm acknowledgment from colleagues across sister security agencies, journalists, and public figures who recognize the enormity of securing Africa’s most populous city. The applause that followed his introduction reflected not protocol but genuine appreciation for a leader whose work has left a tangible impact on safety and crime reduction across the state.

The highlight of the night came when the Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief of RazorNews Group, Mr. Odita Sunday announced the Lagos State Commissioner of Police as Best CP in Anti-Crime. The citation praised his “strategic leadership, proactive crime prevention measures, effective coordination with sister agencies, and commitment to intelligence-driven policing in Lagos State.” According to the organisers, the decision was based on months of independent assessment, data analysis, field reports, and feedback from residents, security stakeholders, and professional bodies.

Under his watch, Lagos has recorded significant breakthroughs in the fight against violent crimes including armed robbery, cult-related violence, kidnapping, traffic-related crimes, and cyber-enabled offences. Tactical deployments, improved response time, and the reinvigoration of police-community relations have strengthened public confidence in the command. RazorNews noted that policing in Lagos under the current leadership has moved beyond reactive enforcement to a more preventive, technology-driven, and collaborative model.

Policing Lagos is a task unlike any other in Nigeria. With a population estimated to exceed 20 million, sprawling urban communities, a bustling economy, and constant human movement, Lagos presents complex security challenges that require innovation, resilience, and adaptability. Criminal elements often evolve rapidly, exploiting technology, mobility, and anonymity within the megacity.

In spite of these challenges, the Lagos CP has consistently emphasized professionalism, discipline, and accountability within the ranks. Regular briefings, operational reviews, intelligence sharing, and joint task operations with other agencies such as the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Civil Defence Corps, and traffic management authorities have ensured a coordinated approach to security.

RazorNews underscored that the award was also a recognition of the CP’s ability to foster inter-agency cooperation, a core theme of the awards ceremony. In an era where security threats are multifaceted, the Lagos Police Command has stood out for its willingness to collaborate rather than compete, to share intelligence rather than operate in silos.

Receiving the award, the Lagos CP expressed gratitude to RazorNews for the recognition, describing it as “an honour that belongs to the officers and men of the Lagos State Police Command.” He dedicated the award to police personnel who risk their lives daily to keep Lagos safe and to those who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

“This award is not about one individual,” he said. “It reflects the collective sacrifice, resilience, and professionalism of thousands of officers who work tirelessly, often under very difficult conditions, to protect lives and property in Lagos State.”

The CP also commended the Lagos State Government for its continuous support, noting that effective policing thrives where leadership invests in security infrastructure, welfare, training, and logistics. He further acknowledged the role of the media, especially responsible platforms like RazorNews, in shaping public perception, disseminating accurate information, and promoting accountability within the security sector.

Importantly, he used the opportunity to reiterate that security is a shared responsibility. Calling on citizens to continue partnering with the police, he emphasized timely information sharing, community vigilance, and trust-building as essential tools in sustaining peace and safety across the state.

The RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards have, over the years, grown into a respected platform that bridges the gap between security institutions and the public. By spotlighting exemplary service, the awards encourage accountability, healthy competition, and best practices among agencies tasked with national safety.

In his address, the Publisher of RazorNews noted that the choice of the Lagos CP for the anti-crime award was “clear and compelling,” adding that the command’s record speaks loudly. He stressed that recognizing excellence is not about praise alone, but about setting benchmarks for others to emulate.

“Our goal is to encourage a culture where good work is seen, documented, and celebrated,” he said. “When security leaders know that their efforts are independently assessed, it motivates sustained professionalism and transparency.”

Within the Lagos Police Command, the award has been widely celebrated as a morale booster for officers across divisions, area commands, and tactical units. For many personnel, the recognition serves as proof that their sacrifices are neither ignored nor taken for granted.

Lagos state police public relations officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, anipr, mipra, described the award as motivating, noting that strong leadership at the top often translates to clarity of purpose and discipline at operational levels. She expressed optimism that the recognition would further energize ongoing reforms and welfare-driven initiatives within the command.

As the ceremony drew to a close, one message remained clear: the award is not an endpoint but a challenge to do more. With evolving security threats, rapid urban expansion, and rising public expectations, the task ahead remains demanding.

However, confidence remains high that under the current leadership, the Lagos State Police Command will continue to prioritize innovation, partnership, and professionalism. Plans to deepen intelligence-led operations, expand technology use, strengthen community policing structures, and enhance officer welfare remain firmly on the agenda.

The RazorNews Inter-Agency Cooperation Awards will be remembered not only for the plaques presented but for the broader message it conveyed, that effective security in Nigeria depends on cooperation, integrity, and visionary leadership.

For the Lagos CP, the Best Commissioner of Police in Anti-Crime award stands as a powerful affirmation of leadership under pressure and service in a city that never sleeps. For Lagos residents, it reinforces hope that their safety remains in capable hands. And for Nigeria’s security architecture, it offers a model of what is possible when institutions work together in the interest of the people.

As the world marks the United Nations Anti-Corruption Day, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigerian chapter of Transparency International (TI), has issued a strong warning that corruption remains one of the most destructive forces driving insecurity across the country.

In a press statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of TI-Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation expressed deep concern that despite massive investments in defence and internal security over the years, corruption within the system continues to weaken national safety and expose citizens to relentless violence.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria noted that Nigeria’s prolonged battles with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, militancy, communal clashes and organised criminal networks have been compounded by deep-rooted corruption that undermines every layer of the security architecture. The organisation explained that from defence procurement to personnel recruitment, welfare administration, intelligence sharing and operational command, corruption has become entrenched in ways that directly fuel insecurity.

According to the organisation, security funds continue to disappear through inflated contracts, questionable procurement deals, misallocation of resources and outright diversion of money meant for operations and equipment. It observed that welfare-related corruption has left frontline personnel poorly motivated, while the families of officers who die in service often receive no entitlements, eroding morale and trust within the ranks.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria further highlighted how recruitment corruption has placed unqualified individuals in sensitive positions and pushed competent officers aside. It said misuse of security priority, where ordinary citizens remain vulnerable while some individuals enjoy excessive security protection, reflects systemic inequality and mismanagement. The organisation also condemned entrenched nepotism and situations where officials manipulate laws to unlawfully extend tenure in security institutions, describing such practices as dangerous to national stability.

The statement also raised concerns over weak oversight from the National Assembly and the persistent failure of government institutions to ensure accountability in the security sector. It noted that the lack of collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies continues to create loopholes exploited by criminal groups. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria added that illegal payments made by police officers at roadblocks to remit returns to superiors illustrate how corruption has permeated routine law enforcement.

The organisation lamented what it described as the collapse of administrative justice, where impunity persists for security failures and corruption-related misconduct. It also criticised the widespread violation of the presidential directive withdrawing police personnel from VIPs, noting that the directive has been largely disregarded. According to CISLAC/TI-Nigeria, insecurity has now become a lucrative enterprise for certain actors in government who facilitate ransom payments and negotiations with terrorists, prioritising short-term fixes over lasting solutions.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria highlighted the intense proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria, warning that this has become a major driver of insecurity. In 2021, the country was estimated to house roughly 70 percent of illicit arms and weapons in West Africa. The organisation noted that growing concerns about the financing of terrorist activities within the country have contributed to Nigeria being ranked 8th among the top 10 countries with the highest levels of terrorism in the 2024 Global Terrorism Index. This alarming trend, it said, underscores the urgent need for both security sector reforms and anti-corruption measures to prevent further destabilisation.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria called for urgent and comprehensive reforms, urging the Federal Government, National Assembly, security agencies and anti-corruption bodies to prioritise transparency and accountability in the management of defence and security funds. The organisation emphasised the need for full disclosure of procurement processes and audited expenditure records in line with global standards.

It stressed the importance of stronger legislative oversight to ensure that security budgets and operational performance are independently reviewed. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria also advocated for an independent defence procurement audit system to end contract inflation, ghost projects and misuse of funds.

The organisation urged government to implement far-reaching security sector reforms that include strict disciplinary measures for officers involved in bribery, extortion, collusion with criminal networks or any form of operational compromise. It also called for improved welfare, insurance and equipment for frontline personnel to rebuild morale and operational effectiveness.

Furthermore, CISLAC/TI-Nigeria underscored the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation to eliminate gaps exploited by criminal organisations. It also called for the protection of whistle-blowers to encourage the reporting of corruption within the security and defence sector.

The organisation maintained that Nigeria cannot overcome insecurity without first addressing corruption within the security sector. It emphasised that no volume of military spending or sophisticated equipment will deliver results if diverted funds, weak oversight and entrenched impunity continue to undermine the system.

CISLAC/TI-Nigeria affirmed that the safety of Nigerians must not be compromised by corruption, political interests or institutional negligence. It reiterated its commitment to working with government, parliament, security agencies and citizens to champion reforms that will enhance accountability, strengthen national security and rebuild public trust.

Nigeria, the organisation said, deserves a secure, just and prosperous future. It added that such a future can only be achieved by confronting and eliminating corruption at the heart of the country’s security framework.

8 Division Nigerian Army /Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma Strike Team deployed for counter banditry and terrorism operation in Sokoto State in a swift and decisive ambush operation and tactical operationsuccessfully neutralized 11 bandits and recovered substantial cache of arms. The bold and tactical operation, conducted near Kurawa Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area disrupted a planned attack on Tara Village, a critical area for cross-movement by terroristand bandit elements.

Acting on precise credible intelligence the strike team executed a well-coordinated ambush engaging the bandits in an intense firefight. The operation resulted in the neutralization of 11 bandits, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The troops recovered 8 AK-47 rifles, 5 extra magazine and 26 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition**

The operation not only prevented a potential terrorist attack but also dealt a significant blow to the bandits and terrorists network operating in the Sabon Birni Corridor which has been a flash point in recent time. The proactive response by the troops highlights their unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens in Sokoto State and its surrounding areas.

The success of this mission reinforces the Division’s resolve to combat banditry and terrorism, ensuring peace and security for the people of Sokoto State.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal, on 9 December 2025, decorated the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel in recognition of her steadfast dedication and exemplary service to the Nigerian Army.

At a brief ceremony held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, the COAS commended Colonel Anele’s professionalism and unwavering commitment, charging the Directorate of Army Public Relations to sustain its efforts in projecting the Nigerian Army’s image responsibly and credibly.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS underscored the indispensable role of public trust in the success of military operations. He urged the Directorate of Army Public Relations to strengthen transparent, accountableand timely communication on the activities of the Nigerian Army, stressing that effective strategic communication remains vital in bolstering national confidence in the Armed Forces.

The Army Chief further tasked the Acting Director to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and loyalty, while mentoring her subordinates to enhance the overall effectiveness and capacity of the Directorate.

In her vote of thanks, Colonel Appolonia Anele expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for their visionary leadership, purposeful guidance and mentorship, which she described as instrumental to her career advancement.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including former Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd) mni; Colonel Mustapha Anka (Rtd) mni, senior officers serving and retired; alongside family members, friends and well-wishers.

This information was disclosed in a press statement issued by Major Akinola Ajibola, Acting Staff Officer 1, Information and Publicity, Headquarters Directorate of Army Public Relations.

Heavyweight prophets, Joshua Iginla and Joshua Afolabi will be the cynosure of all eyes as they ignite Grace Nation Church’s thanksgiving conference this week.

Both name-sake clerics with awesome pedigrees are celebrated worldwide for their uncanny abilities to unravel mysteries, ministering healing and deliverance to multitudes in Nigeria and overseas.

Prophet Iginla, founder and senior pastor of Royal Assembly, a megachurch with 80,000 capacity auditorium in Kubwa, Abuja, Nigeria’s seat of power has earned a name for himself as a major prophet who many refer to as the “Joshua of our time.”

Ditto, for his co-anchor, Dr Joshua Afolabi, a dynamic preacher with a powerful prophetic mandate, who oversees the Palace Fire Chapel in Iba, Lagos.

They will both be lighting the Grace Nation Church auditorium up in four action-packed days of ministrations beginning from Wednesday December 10 to Sunday, December 14, 2025.

The 4-day programme tagged, “Breaking Into The Overflow,” is designed to break lingering battles in the lives of people, as well as offer them a platform to receive end-of-the-year miracles.

On ground to host the programme will be the church’s founder and senior pastor, Dr Chris Okafor who will be rubbing his anointing with his invited celebrity guests in what is expected to be an explosion of prophetic razzmatazz.

Attendees from far and wide have been assured the time of their lives if they can just make out time to attend.

“It is another time for us to thank God for a year that has ended with no untoward incidents. In an era of uncertainties and heightened insecurity in this part of the world, we have every reason to thank Elohim for His mercies,” Dr Chris Okafor said while announcing the programme.

“We will not only be thanking God. We have added a bonus by inviting prophetic generals like my good friends, Joshua Iginla and Joshua Afolabi to add fire to the programme that is scheduled for four days between Wednesday and Sunday this week.

“The programme is designed to break every lingering battles in the life of our people. For you who wants to see a change in your career, business, marriage, academics, etc, this programme is for you. God is set to finally end years of pain, sorrow and anguish in the lives of people. So, don’t miss it for anything.

“Make this programme part of your December. Come and get divine immunity from satanic surprises, disasters, calamities and tragedies — mishaps often associated with the ’ember’ months and enter 2026 free from all forms of demonic oppression,” Dr Okafor said.

Also to minister at the 4-day event are popular gospel singers as Ebuka Songs, Lilian Nneji and others. The Church’s Choir known as the ‘Streams of Grace’ will also be offering backups as they take the crowd through sizzling praise and worship sessions.

Wednesday’s programme will hold at 6pm, while Thursday’s will run from 8am till 12 noon. The Friday session will begin at 8pm while Saturday’s will hold in the morning at 8am.

The programme will then close on Sunday with the church’s annual thanksgiving and child dedication service.

The AniochaOshimili people are gearing up to host a landmark summit aimed at addressing insecurity, economic development, and cultural preservation within the region. The Njiko AniochaOshimili General Meeting 2025 is scheduled to take place on December 29, 2025, at 12:00 Noon at the Asagba Conference Centre (Ogwa-Ukwu Ahaba), Asaba.

This year’s conference is themed “Unity, Development and Security: Unifying, Developing and Securing the Vision, Aspirations and Future of Aniocha-Oshimili People.” The event is organized by Njiko AniochaOshimili, the apex mouthpiece of the Aniocha and Oshimili communities, comprising Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili North, and Oshimili South Local Government Areas.

The summit seeks to foster meaningful dialogue on the community’s collective future, with a focus on promoting regional development, safeguarding cultural heritage, and ensuring security and sustainability. Interactive panels and networking opportunities will feature prominently on the agenda.

In a statement, HRM Prof. Epiphany Azinge OON, SAN, FNIALS, FICMIC, KSJI, KSG, Asagba of Asaba, and Engr. Igwe Enuoyibo, Leader of Njiko AniochaOshimili, emphasized the importance of unity, sustainable development, and security in light of regional realignments across Nigeria.

Sponsorship packages are available, ranging from Gold (3,000,000 NGN) to Bronze (1,000,000 NGN), each offering varying benefits including delegate registrations, exhibition space, and branding opportunities. Interested sponsors and participants are urged to confirm their participation before December 12, 2025.

For further details, registration, and sponsorship inquiries, please contact Njiko AniochaOshimili via the Asagba’s Palace, Asaba, Delta State, or call 08037214809, 08033044834, 08037152027, 09054854511.

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on Monday formally flagged off the Nigerian Navy’s Annual Sea Exercise, EX ERU OBODO, reaffirming the Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and contributing to security across the Gulf of Guinea.

Delivering his remarks at the flag-off ceremony held on 8 December 2025, Vice Admiral Abbas described the exercise as a central pillar of the Nigerian Navy’s operational calendar and a critical platform for testing fleet readiness, operational effectiveness and combat preparedness.

According to the Naval Chief, the exercise codenamed ERU OBODO, meaning “Guardian of the Nation” aptly reflects the constitutional and professional mandate of the Nigerian Navy. “You are the guardians of our blue territory, the protectors of our national economic lifelines, and the sentinels against threats emanating from the sea,” he charged officers and ratings participating in the exercise.

He noted that Nigeria’s maritime environment remains strategically vital as a corridor for commerce, a source of immense natural resources and a frontline of national security. As such, the Navy’s ability to dominate the maritime space, guarantee freedom of navigation and deter criminality remains non-negotiable.

Vice Admiral Abbas explained that EX ERU OBODO has been carefully structured to mirror real-world operational challenges. The exercise will test a broad range of naval competencies, including fleet manoeuvres, advanced gunnery, anti-piracy operations, suppression of illegal oil bunkering, search and rescue missions, and Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations.

The exercise will also evaluate inter-agency cooperation with key maritime stakeholders, as well as the Navy’s capacity for logistics support and combat sustainability at extended ranges from shore bases.

Beyond Nigeria’s waters, the CNS reiterated that the Nigerian Navy remains a key stabilising force in the Gulf of Guinea, contributing significantly to the reduction of piracy, protection of shipping lanes and the promotion of maritime governance in the region.

Under the leadership of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he affirmed that the Navy stands fully prepared to undertake any mission assigned to it. “Exercises like this strengthen our readiness and ensure that we remain a reliable guardian of Nigeria’s maritime interests and regional maritime security,” he said.

Addressing participating ships, helicopters, special forces and supporting units, the Naval Chief urged personnel to view the exercise not as a routine drill but as battle preparation.

“You must operate with tactical rigor, procedural precision and uncompromising discipline. Push your platforms and yourselves to the limit, identify gaps, learn from every evolution and build the muscle memory required for real combat,” he stressed, while emphasizing that safety must remain paramount throughout all phases of the exercise.

He commended the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, the Exercise Planning Team and supporting staff for their thorough preparations, describing their professionalism as the backbone of the exercise’s success.

To coastal communities and Nigerians at large, Vice Admiral Abbas reassured that the Navy remains resolute in protecting lives, livelihoods and the maritime environment. He added that the exercise would translate into safer waterways for fishermen and mariners, a more secure Gulf of Guinea and enhanced economic prosperity.

Expressing confidence in the Navy’s fighting spirit and professionalism, the CNS officially declared EX ERU OBODO underway, urging the fleet to “set sail, guard the nation and make us proud.”

Earlier, while delivering his Officer in Tactical Command (OTC) address during the Chief of the Naval Staff Annual Sea Inspection 2025 (CASI 25), the FOC Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, described the exercise as the culmination of all naval operations and exercises conducted during the year.

Rear Admiral Mustapha noted that CASI 25 provides an opportunity for the CNS to assess the operational readiness of the fleet in line with his mission of deploying a highly motivated, professional and combat-ready Navy capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting joint operations.

He observed that the maritime environment has become increasingly complex, with persistent threats such as sea robbery, crude oil theft, illegal trafficking and unregulated exploitation of marine resources.

“Exercises like ERU OBODO allow us to test our fleet under realistic conditions, validate doctrines, enhance interoperability and refine the tactical skills required for maritime dominance,” he said.

According to him, the exercise brings together surface platforms, air assets, special operations forces and key maritime security stakeholders in multi-layered maritime interdiction operations. Planned scenarios include anti-illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (Anti-IUUF), AIS infractions with hot pursuit, anti-crude oil theft, anti-piracy, anti-small arms and anti-narcotics operations, all executed through established VBSS procedures.

Participating ships will also undergo medical evacuation drills, fleet manoeuvres, gunnery exercises, communication drills and emergency responses, all aimed at ensuring a high state of operational preparedness.

Also speaking, the Officer Conducting the Exercise (OCE) and Chief of Operations Naval Headquarters Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, said the exercise aligns squarely with the CNS Strategic Directives on fleet readiness and mission effectiveness.

He explained that CASI 25 is designed to test and refine the Navy’s capacity to secure Nigeria’s maritime interests through effective command and control, logistics sustainability, tactical manoeuvres and coordinated employment of maritime and air assets.

Rear Admiral Katagum urged all participants to demonstrate initiative, situational awareness, adherence to doctrine and strict compliance with safety standards, noting that performance during the exercise reflects the Navy’s collective capacity to deter threats and maintain national stability.

Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the exercise, Vice Admiral Abbas clarified that the operation is a routine annual activity and not a response to any specific incident.

“This exercise is an annual one. Its timing is purely coincidental,” he said, adding that part of the Navy’s mandate is to ensure the safety of Nigeria’s maritime environment and the wider Gulf of Guinea.

He stressed that the primary objective is to assess the Navy’s operational capabilities, identify gaps and further enhance preparedness. “We rehearse during peacetime to prepare for war. We expect to come out of this exercise with a stronger and more capable Navy,” he said.

On piracy and illegal fishing, the CNS noted that sustained patrols and exercises such as EX ERU OBODO are essential to maintaining recent security gains and sending a clear message to maritime criminals that the Nigerian Navy remains vigilant, capable and ever ready.

The Nigerian Army has taken a major leap in strengthening its operational readiness with the commissioning of a State-of-the-Art Wargaming Centre at the Department of Land Warfare, Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, on Saturday, 6 December 2025.

Welcoming the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal at the event, the Commandant AFCSC, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Idris Alhaji, stated that the College remains committed to producing officers who are intellectually prepared for command, instructional and staff duties across complex security environments.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “He noted that the new Wargaming Centre, conceptualised and driven by the Chief of Army Staff, will significantly enhance the capacity of personnel to develop modern operational concepts, refine strategic thinking and improve combat decision-making processes essential for today’s dynamic battlefield.

The Commandant commended the Chief of Army Staff for the facility, assuring that the College will continue to support the Department of Land Warfare in delivering world-class professional military education.

In his address, the Chief of Army Staff, reaffirmed the strategic role of AFCSC as a centre of excellence in shaping officers capable of meeting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges. He emphasized that the Wargaming Centre will serve as a critical asset for sharpening commanders’ ability to plan, rehearse and execute operations with precision.

The COAS stated that investing in advanced training technologies is essential to stay ahead of adversaries and deepen the Army’s capability for effective deployment across theatres of operation. He charged the students to maximize the facility as the Army continues to operate in fluid, unpredictable and technology-driven environments.

He reiterated his vision to upgrade and modernize all existing military training infrastructures to meet global standards, adding that AFCSC remains a reputable institution attracting officers from across the world, making cutting-edge facilities like the Wargaming Centre indispensable.

The COAS appreciated the unwavering support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, whose commitment to strengthening national security continues to empower the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive. He also commended the Commandant and the entire College community for their dedication.

As part of the renewed drive to reinforce Nigeria’s security architecture in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency on Security, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal has charged newly commissioned officers to place national interest above all else and uphold absolute loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “General Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday, 6 December 2025, during the Passing Out Parade of Executive Commission Course 2/2025, held at the prestigious Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji. The COAS stated that the commissioning of this new set of officers forms a critical component of the President’s directive to expand manpower, strengthen frontline deployments and accelerate security stabilisation efforts nationwide.

The Army Chief expressed confidence in the quality of training received by the officers, noting that their exceptional display of parade and weapon handling reflects the Army’s rising standards at a time when the nation demands heightened operational vigilance. He urged them to remain uncompromisingly apolitical, disciplined and subordinate to civil authority, stressing that professionalism and constitutional loyalty remain the bedrock of military service.

General Shaibu further reminded the officers that their commission comes at a defining moment in Nigeria’s security history, where terrorism, banditry and other emerging threats require mission-focused, courageous and ethically grounded leaders.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commandant of NASI, Major General Frank Etim, stated that the training curriculum was deliberately restructured to align with the emerging security threats. He revealed that the 250 officers, including 14 female officers underwent intensive courses in Counterterrorism, Counterinsurgency, Leadership, Physical Conditioning and Tactical Command, ensuring they are battle-ready for ongoing and future operations across the country.

He noted that the training instilled core military values of loyalty, courage, discipline and integrity, which remain indispensable for officers expected to take up leadership tasks in an increasingly complex operational environment.

Awards were presented to outstanding officers who distinguished themselves in academics, field exercises and leadership performance during the course.

The Nigerian Army reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s security emergency action plan through massive recruitment, rigorous training, enhanced readiness and strategic deployments across all theatres of operation.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has presided over his first meeting as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, steering the 93rd Session of the Policy Commission in Antigua, Guatemala, and deepening Nigeria’s visibility in global customs governance.

The session, held from 2 to 4 December 2025 at the historic Hotel Soleil, drew Heads of Customs Administrations and senior delegates from across the WCO’s six regions.

Opening the proceedings, CGC Adeniyi welcomed participants to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua Guatemala, paying tribute to customs officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and urging delegates to engage constructively on issues shaping the global customs landscape.

He was joined at the occasion by WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders and Guatemala’s Vice Minister of Public Finance, Honourable Patricia Joachin, who delivered remarks on behalf of the host government.

The gathering was further enriched by the cultural heritage of the host nation, with delegates hosted to a traditional dinner at the historic Capuchinas Ruins.

It will be recalled that CGC Adeniyi’s election as WCO Council Chair in June 2025 was widely regarded as a milestone for Nigeria and the African continent, placing the country at the helm of an organisation with 187 member administrations.

While reflecting on the significance of his mandate, CGC Adeniyi said the position comes with “a major responsibility for Nigeria and for Africa,” adding that the objective is to provide quality leadership that strengthens global trade, security, and inclusive customs governance.

His comments echo remarks made earlier in an exclusive WCO Global interview on The Customs Exchange: Conversations with Global Customs Leaders, where he described his election as a validation of Nigeria’s ongoing customs reforms.

According to him, the confidence expressed in his leadership is “an endorsement by the global customs community that we are on track,” drawing attention to the Service’s modernisation efforts over the past two years, including procedural upgrades, systems alignment and strengthened collaboration with international partners.

He highlighted Nigeria’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, developed with WCO support, as one of the country’s most transformative reforms.

The initiative, he said, has shortened clearance timelines, improved revenue outcomes and deepened trust between Customs and compliant traders.

He also referenced the SAFE Framework of Standards, the Time Release Study (TRS), and the ongoing work on advance rulings as further evidence of Nigeria’s alignment with international best practices.

Adeniyi called for deeper cooperation among customs administrations and emphasised diversity as one of the WCO’s greatest strengths, saying, “Our uniqueness is our strength. We must allow that diversity to continue creating opportunities and progress for us.”