Author: Dodo Elias Denen

Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA (OPUK), have executed another precision strike against criminal elements, successfully extracting 14 kidnapped victims in a rapid, high-impact raid within the Orokam Forest corridor linking Udenu LGA of Enugu State and Ogbadigbo LGA of Benue State.

The operation was triggered by actionable intelligence from vigilant community sources. Acting swiftly, troops working in concert with local vigilante mounted a deliberate assault on a suspected kidnap hideout concealed deep in the forest. On contact, the criminals unleashed gunfire, prompting a fierce engagement. The joint force’s superior firepower, tactical manoeuvre and relentless advance forced the kidnappers to break contact and flee, abandoning the abductees.

The rescued victims were seized over the weekend while returning from a burial and were being held in dispersed clusters across the forest. Intelligence further indicated that the victims were abducted from two separate communities: Ezimo Agu in Udenu LGA of Enugu State and Orokam in Ogbadigbo LGA of Benue State.

All rescued persons have been formally handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Udenu Division, for proper profiling and subsequent reunification with their families.

Nigerian Army troops continue to maintain aggressive battlespace dominance across the theatre of operations general area, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to neutralise all threats and uphold peace and security throughout the South East.

A security stakeholder and community engagement expert, Henry Bassey, has faulted the call by the Senator representing Osun East, Francis Fadahunsi, for the replacement of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, with a retired military officer.
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‎Fadahunsi had, in a statement issued on December 2, 2025, urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint a former military officer as NSA and redeploy Ribadu to another national assignment.
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‎Reacting, Bassey described the call as “dangerous, outdated and inconsistent with modern security leadership.”
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‎He said, “The call to replace Mallam Nuhu Ribadu with a retired military officer reflects a narrow and outdated understanding of national security. What Nigeria needs is results, not recycled arguments rooted in obsolete assumptions.”
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‎Bassey explained that national security had gone beyond military hardware to include political, economic, environmental, food, energy and cyber considerations.
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‎He noted that globally, the NSA position is often held by civilians with deep policy and intelligence backgrounds, citing the United States where the current NSA, Jake Sullivan, is a civilian lawyer.
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‎“Even in Nigeria, former police chiefs like Gambo Jimeta and Aliyu Ismaila Gwarzo served as NSA and performed excellently,” he said.
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‎According to him, Ribadu’s background in intelligence, anti-corruption, inter-agency coordination and counter-terrorism makes him well suited for the office.
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‎“The NSA is not a combatant position. It requires strategic thinking, intelligence coordination and integrity, qualities Ribadu has demonstrated for decades,” Bassey added.
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‎He warned that the notion that only military officers could command respect within the armed forces was dangerous in a democratic setting.
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‎Bassey urged the Federal Government to sustain the current security architecture under Ribadu, stressing that “excessive militarisation of the NSA office will only weaken Nigeria’s broader security framework.”

CIRCUIT, a virtual cinema and digital entertainment platform, has announced new initiatives aimed at strengthening content monetization and protecting intellectual property within Africa’s film industry. The company’s Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Imade Bibowei Osuobeni, disclosed this during a media parley in Ikeja, Lagos.

Mrs. Osuobeni said the platform was created to address what she described as the industry’s core challenge, distribution and monetization not production. According to her, many African filmmakers continue to lose revenue to piracy and free online circulation of their work.

She explained that CIRCUIT operates exclusively on a pay-per-view system, which she said enables creators to earn directly from each stream, rental, or purchase. She added that the model ensures daily revenue flow and encourages creators to maintain premium quality.

The platform offers multilingual subtitles, compatibility across devices, and cinema-style timed downloads. Films on CIRCUIT cost below ₦1,000, with an additional “Flexi-Watch” package granting access to over 50 films for a single payment.

Mrs. Osuobeni identified piracy and consumer reluctance to pay for content as persistent obstacles to sustainable earnings in the creative sector. She noted that the platform is working to shift audience behaviour by promoting the value of paid content.

A major feature of the briefing was the announcement of the Film Veterans Dignity Fund, launched earlier in the year to provide monthly stipends and health insurance for Nigerian film veterans aged 70 and above. Beneficiaries currently include Pete Edochie, Idowu Phillips (Mama Rainbow) and Lere Paimo, with health coverage provided in partnership with NEM Insurance.

Filmmaker and actor, Ms. Amina Atairu, speaking at the event, said the platform offers improved transparency, anti-piracy protection and global reach. She maintained that CIRCUIT’s revenue model allows creators to track the number of views and earnings in real time, unlike traditional platforms.

Mrs. Osuobeni said CIRCUIT aims to provide a viable, long-term distribution alternative as rising cinema costs and declining revenue streams continue to push creators toward less structured platforms such as skitmaking.

She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting African content creators and expanding global access to local films.

The Western Naval Command (WNC) held a colourful decoration ceremony for newly promoted senior and junior officers at the Command Headquarters, Apapa, Lagos.

The event marked a significant milestone in the careers of officers elevated across various ranks in the Nigerian Navy.

The ceremony featured the decoration of 2 officers promoted from Captains to Commodore, 16 Commanders to Captain, and 15 Sub-Lieutenants to Lieutenant, reflecting the service’s commitment to recognising hard work, professionalism, and dedication to duty.

The Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, served as the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH). In his remarks, the FOC congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a call to higher responsibility. He urged them to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Navy, maintain exemplary conduct, and continue contributing to the Command’s mission and national security.

Rear Admiral Mustapha also appreciated the families of the officers for their support, noting that the achievements of the personnel would not be possible without the sacrifices made by their loved ones.

The ceremony, attended by senior officers, families, and friends, concluded with group photographs and celebrations in honour of the newly decorated officers.

The Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Friday, December 5th, 2025, conducted a formal handing over and taking over ceremony, marking the assumption of office by the newly posted Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller BL Adigun.

According to signed press statement by CSC V.U. Ogagbor “He takes over from Assistant Comptroller General E. J. Edelduok, following her appointment into the management team of the Service.

The ceremony, held at the Command’s conference hall, brought together senior officers, representatives of partner agencies, and key stakeholders, who convened to witness a smooth and orderly transition of leadership in line with Customs’ administrative tradition.

In her handing over remarks, ACG Edelduok expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and the management team for the privilege to serve at KLT. She described her tenure as fulfilling and impactful, noting that the progress recorded at the Command was made possible through teamwork, professionalism, and the consistent support of officers and stakeholders. She urged everyone to extend the same cooperation and loyalty to the incoming Customs Area Controller.

In his acceptance speech, the new Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller BL Adigun, thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs for the confidence reposed in him. He commended ACG Edelduok for her exemplary and results-driven leadership, and assured stakeholders of his determination to consolidate and build on the achievements of the Command.

He stated that his administration would prioritise revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling efforts, and operational integrity. He called for continuous collaboration with stakeholders and charged officers to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to the Service’s mandate.

Stakeholders present described the transition as a demonstration of institutional stability and continuity within the Nigeria Customs Service. They expressed optimism that the new Acting Customs Area Controller would provide strong and effective leadership that would further elevate the Command’s performance.

The ceremony featured the formal signing of handover documents, symbolic presentation of the Service’ flag, and group photographs, signifying the official transfer of authority.

With the assumption of office by the new Acting Customs Area Controller, the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command looks forward to sustained progress, strengthened partnerships, and enhanced service delivery going forward.

The Central Naval Command (CNC) and the Nigerian Air Force Mobility Command have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening synergy to tackle rising insecurity, particularly the menace of crude oil theft, in the Niger Delta region.

​The commitment was the highlight of a significant visit by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) CNC, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, to the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal MN Onyebashi, at the NAF base in Yenagoa.

​During the meeting, Rear Admiral Ibrahim pledged full cooperation, stating, “The Central Naval Command under my watch would work hand-in-hand with the Mobility Command to achieve the mission and vision of our both services.” He stressed that the collaboration aligns with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s (CNS) Leadership and Command Ethos, thanking Vice Admiral Idi Abbas for his guidance.

​In his response, Air Vice Marshal Onyebashi expressed the Mobility Command’s readiness to strengthen the existing relationship, emphasizing that this renewed synergy would lead to significant improvements in security. ​He specifically outlined the Mobility Command’s support:

​Intelligence Gathering: Conducting joint maritime and air patrols aimed at gathering critical intelligence.

​Targeting Illegalities: Directing efforts against crude oil theft and other illegal activities within both commands’ Areas of Responsibility.

​AVM Onyebashi lauded the choice of Rear Admiral Ibrahim as FOC CNC, noting his professionalism and familiarity with the Niger Delta region. “Our continued collaboration will enhance the prosperity of the Nation,” the AOC maintained.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has charged newly promoted senior officers of the Division to remain committed to providing purposeful and exemplary leadership to their troops.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army “The GOC gave the charge on 4 December 2025 during the decoration ceremony of senior officers promoted from Lieutenant Colonel to Colonel and Colonel to Brigadier General, held at the Hippo Officers’ Mess, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Major General Mijinyawa congratulated the newly promoted senior officers on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Division, commending them for their dedication, discipline, hard work, and unwavering commitment to duty. He noted that the Division’s success in meeting its mandate under the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy for the year was due to the relentless efforts of the promoted officers, alongside other senior officers, officers, and soldiers of the Division.

He described the promotions as merit-based and urged the senior officers to continue demonstrating leadership by example, providing direction and mentorship to their troops, and working towards earning their next ranks. He also appreciated the spouses of the promoted senior officers for their support, which enables the officers to perform their duties effectively.

The newly promoted senior officers included Brigadier General IB Sheriff, Chief of Staff 9 Brigade, Brigadier General MI Abdulkadir, Deputy Chief of Staff (Training and Operations), Headquarters 81 Division, and Brigadier General OS Idowu, Commander 81 Division Medical Services and Hospital. Others include Colonel OA Olubo, Acting Director, 81 Division Education Services and Colonel M Bwete, Chief of Staff, 104 Division Equipment Support.

Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the newly promoted senior officers, Brigadier General IB Sheriff, expressed gratitude to God Almighty and to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, for considering them worthy of elevation. He also thanked the GOC, as well as their respective Commanders for their strategic guidance and mentorship, pledging renewed dedication and commitment in their new roles. He further appreciated their families, friends, colleagues, well wishers, and subordinates for their support and prayers.

The colourful ceremony was graced by the Commandant Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management Maj Gen AC Adetoba, the President Mess Committee 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Brig Gen UD Igbokwe, Chief of Staff Headquarters 81 Division Brig Gen MA Oloyede, Commander 9 Brigade, Brig Gen AO Owolabi, Formation Commanders, Staff Officers, invited dignitaries including the Chairman House Committee on Marine and Blue Economy, Hon Abdussamad Dasuki, former GOC 1 Division Maj Gen MB Obi (rtd), AVM AA Zannah(rtd) and family members as well as well-wishers of the newly promoted senior officers.

The Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD has appointed Deputy Comptroller of Customs Olukayode Oladapo Afeni as the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Command.

In a signed Statment by Ogun I Command’s PRO, DSC Chado Zakari ANIPR, the formal handover ceremony from Comptroller Godwin Otunla, held on Thursday, 4 December 2025 at the Command Headquarters, Idiroko, marked a smooth transition of leadership within one of the Customs most strategic land borders in the country.

In his remarks, Deputy Comptroller Afeni expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to consolidate the gains recorded in the areas of Trade Facilitation, Revenue Collection, and Anti Smuggling activities.

“It is a great honour to assume the leadership of Ogun 1. I am fully aware of the unique operational environment of the command, with its vast borders. I am also aware of the strategic importance of this command to the national economy and border security. I assure you to consolidate the gains already recorded by my predecessor and pursue continuous improvement in the area of efficiency, enforcement, intelligence-led operations, stakeholders collaboration and community relations. he said.

DC Afeni emphasised his resolve to strengthen inter-agency cooperation, suppress smuggling activities to the barest minimum. He also pledged to prioritise personnel welfare and professional development under his leadership.
A seasoned officer and accomplished administrator, DC Afeni brings close to two decades of professional service marked by strategic leadership, operational depth, and academic distinction.
DC Afeni holds a Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) in Industrial Design from Federal University of Technology, Akure, a Masters degree in Diplomacy and Strategic studies (MDSS) from University of Lagos.

His professional development includes several courses such as: Basic Conflict Management course from Institute for peace and conflict resolution-Nigeria peace Academy Abuja, Advance course in conflict Analysis and international Negotiation, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, Strategic Leadership Management Training, Abuja and Rural Border Patrol Operation Academy Mentorship.

DC Afeni is a Member of Nigerian Institute International Affairs and a fellow of Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria Chartered. He loves playing Squash.

In his farewell address, the outgoing Customs Area Controller, Compt. Godwin Otunla described his tenure as “challenging yet fulfilling” He noted that under his watch, the Command achieved significant milestones in curbing smuggling activities, enhancing trade facilitation and improving personnel welfare.

Beyond seizures and revenue, the Command placed emphasis on inter-agency cooperation which significantly strengthened border security and crime control within the Command’s area of responsibility.

“I am confident that DC Afeni will consolidate the gains and lead the Command to greater heights.” Otunla said.

The transition marks another milestone in the Service to sustain suppression of smuggling activities, border security and safeguard the vast land border of the command, a mission the Ag CAC is poised to advance with renewed energy and strategic focus.

Searchlight News has announced that preparations have been completed for the highly anticipated 7th Global Leadership Summit & Awards, scheduled to take place this week in Lagos.

A statement signed by Lola Adesokan, Managing Editor/Convener Searchlight News/Global Leadership Summit disclosed that the 7th edition is themed “Celebrating Visionary Leaders Driving Economic, Social, and Institutional Transformation,” reflecting the core mandate of the Summit—to honour individuals whose leadership is shaping national progress across multiple sectors.

This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Oluwasegun Musa, a respected maritime expert, strategic thinker, and national development advocate whose work continues to influence transport policy, logistics intelligence, and institutional strengthening in Nigeria.

The Summit will also feature two powerful technical and policy-focused presentations. Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, will present a paper titled “Building Institutional Strength Through Labour Unity: The Role of Maritime Workers in National Development.”

Additionally, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, President of NAGAFF, will deliver a paper on “Trade Facilitation and Leadership Transformation: Strengthening Freight Forwarding Systems for Sustainable Economic Growth.”The event will be chaired by Ms. Temilade Ogunniyi, a respected professional known for her commitment to excellence, administrative expertise, and leadership integrity.

The 7th Global Leadership Summit & Awards will honor distinguished personalities who have demonstrated exceptional service, innovation, humanitarian impact, and transformational leadership.

This year’s awardees include ACG Ahmadu Bello Shu’aibu; Comrade Francis Bunu Abi; Comrade Bodunde Akinola; Primate Oluwarotimi Dada; HRM Adekunle Adefemi Adebayo; High Chief Tochukwu Emmanuel Ezisi; Dr. Oluwasegun Musa; Dr. Nkeiru Ijeoma Nwala; Comrade Akeem Agboola; Comptroller Hauwa Kulu Anifowoshe-Abubakar; Comptroller Frank Onyeka; Engr. Sarat Braimah; Prince Olawale Mathew Cole; Comrade Onome Joy Monije; AC Francis Ogbemudia; Dr. Ifeanyi Madu; Comrade Michael Adetumi; and Comrade Olajide Olalekan.

The Summit remains one of Nigeria’s most credible platforms for celebrating impactful leadership and fostering conversations that strengthen institutions, promote ethical governance, enhance trade systems, and inspire national development.

Searchlight News invites the public, stakeholders, and leaders across sectors to join in honoring these exemplary Nigerians as they receive one of the nation’s most respected leadership recognitions.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has reiterated the Division’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Air Force and other relevant security agencies to ensure the safety and security of lives and property across Lagos and Ogun States.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army “He gave this assurance while receiving the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, who paid a courtesy visit to the Division’s Headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos, on 3 December 2025.

Major General Mijinyawa attributed the prevailing calm and relative peace in the Division’s Area of Responsibility to the robust synergy among the Armed Forces and other security agencies. He emphasized the strategic importance of Lagos and Ogun States as major commercial hubs, stressing that sustained collaboration among security agencies is crucial for maintaining peace, attracting investors, and boosting economic activities.

The GOC assured that the Nigerian Army would continue to collaborate and share ideas with the Nigerian Air Force to maintain peace and security. He congratulated Air Vice Marshal Suleh on his recent appointment as the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command and wished him a successful and fulfilling tour of duty.

Earlier in his remarks, Air Vice Marshal Suleh stated that the visit aimed to strengthen existing cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to providing air support, logistics, and other forms of assistance to enhance the Division’s operational effectiveness and contribute to national security.

Highpoint of the visit includes signing of the Visitors’ Book, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph, underscoring the commitment to enhanced synergy between the two security agencies.