Category: Military

  • Afeni Cup Promotes Football Education, Anti Smuggling Drive

    Afeni Cup Promotes Football Education, Anti Smuggling Drive

    A new inter-secondary school football competition has been officially launched in Idiroko, aiming to steer youth away from the dangers of border smuggling through the power of sports.

    According to a press release issued on Tuesday by Chado Zakari, Deputy Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, the initiative, in conjunction with Jonnyyeko College of Health Science and Technology, organised as a core Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drive, seeks to engage young minds productively, foster community spirit, and highlight sustainable career paths outside of illicit border trade.

    ​Idiroko, a strategic border location, has historically exposed vulnerable youth to the temptations of smuggling. This tournament provides a constructive alternative, channelling students’ energy into teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition.

    Declaring the competition open, the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command *Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni* said smuggling robs our youth of their future. By sponsoring this competition, we aren’t just playing football; we are providing a platform for advocacy, teaching life skills, and showing these students that their potential extends far beyond the border tracks.

    Afeni highlighted that the tournament aims to nurture young talent early, inspiring them to pursue football as a lucrative career while leveraging sports to combat smuggling.

    The tournament features twelve (12) teams from secondary schools across the local government, engaging hundreds of students both on the pitch and in the stands.

    Educational authorities, Youth Associations and community leaders have rallied behind the tournament, praising it as a timely intervention to keep students in the classroom and off the smuggling routes.

    Grand prizes, including educational materials and cash, will be awarded to the winning institutions and outstanding players.

    The competition kicked off on 13 July 2026 at Iko Gate Grammar School, Idiroko, and is set to conclude with a grand finale on 24 July 2026.

  • COAS Inaugurates Projects in 6 Division, Visits Akwa Ibom Governor

    COAS Inaugurates Projects in 6 Division, Visits Akwa Ibom Governor


    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has just concluded a 3-Day operational visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Area of Responsibility (AOR).

    According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, during the visit, the COAS commissioned several signature projects, initiated and executed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, and his subordinate commanders.

    While in Port Harcourt Barracks, the COAS commissioned the Headquarters 6 Division Office Complex Extension and the Python Harmony Centre. Additionally, he commissioned projects executed by 6 Division Garrison under the leadership of Brigadier General S Ahmed. These projects include newly constructed 2 x 10-family Corporal and Below Quarters (CBQs), remodeled 7 x CBQs, a remodeled Cantonment Office, and a newly constructed Petroleum Oil Lubricant Point, while 29 Battalion’s remodeled Quarter Guard and a 10XCBQs among others, were also commissioned.

    In 16 Brigade, Bayelsa State, the COAS commissioned the newly built 16 Brigade Annex Complex executed by the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Oluremi Obolo. The COAS also commissioned a electrification project undertaken by NDDC as part of corporate social responsibility. Additionally, a Garrison House newly built by Lieutenant Colonel Sheriff Kaigama was further unveiled. Others included the remodeled 5 Battalion Quarter Guard, the remodeled 343 Artillery Regiment Commanding Officer’s House, the commissioning of a newly installed transformer, and the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 20 units of two-bedroom flats for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ quarters at Elele Barracks. The COAS also inspected the newly remodeled and completely renovated Medical Reception Station at Wellington Barracks, Ibagwa Barracks, Akwa Ibom State.

    Meanwhile, as part of his strategic leadership engagement drive, the COAS visited the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, at Government House, Uyo. During the visit, the COAS reemphasized that the NA belongs to all Nigerians, adding that he was not surprised by the level of support the state government has been providing to the NA which accounts for the state being one of the most peaceful in the country. General Oluyede informed the Governor that he was in Akwa Ibom, one of the states under 6 Division AOR, on an operational visit.

    Responding, Governor Eno lauded the Nigerian Army for its outstanding contributions to peace, security, and development in the state, especially the sustained collaboration between Akwa Ibom State and the NA through the Commander 2 Brigade, Brigadier General Alex Tawasimi. He commended the NA for the robust Civil-Military Relations in the state and reassured continuous support to the NA in achieving its constitutional mandate.

    The Army Chief also addressed troops at 29 Battalion Parade Ground, Port Harcourt, as well as 6 Battalion Parade Ground, Ibagwa, Abak LGA of Akwa Ibom. During both addresses he commended troops for their unwavering dedication and resilience in the ongoing anti-oil theft and pipeline vandalism operations. He reassured the troops that their welfare has been adequately prioritized in line with his soldier first concept.

  • Western Naval Command, Conduct Joint Environmental Sanitation In Apapa

    Western Naval Command, Conduct Joint Environmental Sanitation In Apapa


    The Western Naval Command (WNC), in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry for Environment, executed a large-scale environmental sanitation exercise at Aremu Junction, Trailer Park and Marine Bridge in Apapa, Lagos State.

    The cleanup exercise involved various environmental stakeholders, including the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), the Lagos State Waste Water Management Office (LAWMO), the Office of Environmental Services, and the Office of Drainage Services.

    The Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Micheal Gregory Oamen described the exercise as part of the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military relations initiative, which aligns with the strategic directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Admiralty Medal. He underscored the Navy’s role as a key stakeholder in the Apapa community and highlighted the importance of supporting the Lagos State Government’s mandate to maintain a clean and healthy city for businesses to thrive.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Environment, Engr. Kunle Rotimi Akodu acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Navy and the support from other environmental agencies. He emphasized that their collective efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to improving public hygiene and maintaining a cleaner urban environment across Lagos.

    On her part, the Chairman of Apapa Local Government, Honourable Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, appreciated the Nigerian Navy for the initiative and called on other agencies to contribute their own quota towards keeping Apapa clean.

    During the exercise, participants cleared drainage channels, removed waste, and engaged local residents and traders on the significance of proper waste management. This initiative has strengthened the cooperation between Nigerian Navy and civilian institutions.

    The sanitation drive emphasizes the growing importance of collaborative environmental responsibility in Lagos State, setting an example for future joint efforts to enhance the city’s cleanliness.

  • Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    The Nigerian Navy has unveiled a line-up of activities for its 69th Anniversary Celebration scheduled to hold from Friday, 23 May to Sunday, 1 June 2025 in Lagos. Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, made this known during an international press conference held on Monday, 19 May 2025.

    Rear Admiral Dewu stated that the Navy Week, as the celebration is popularly known, commemorates the establishment of the Nigerian Navy on 1 June 1956. According to him, the Navy has grown from a modest coastal force into a formidable maritime institution with influence in the Gulf of Guinea and sub-Saharan Africa.

    He noted that the Navy Week is also an opportunity to present the scorecard of the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

    He explained that the Navy, under Ogalla, has achieved a high level of operational readiness in fulfilling its constitutional roles, especially in the fight against crude oil theft. The operation, initially launched in January 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity, was relaunched in December 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity II. The operations led to the arrest of 215 suspects, seizure of 26 vessels, and destruction of 468 illegal refinery sites in 2024 alone.

    In 2025, more than 103 illegal sites have already been destroyed, with the arrest of 34 suspects and the seizure of 39 wooden boats and one ship. So far, about 773,000 litres of crude oil and 150,000 litres of refined products have been recovered this year. Dewu stated that these achievements align with the President’s directive to eradicate oil theft and boost national oil production.

    The Nigerian Navy also maintains constant situational awareness through its Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems, which have contributed to Nigeria’s zero-piracy rating in the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy assessment.

    The Nigerian Navy has taken a leadership role in regional security, hosting the 8th Symposium of Heads of Navies and Coast Guards of Gulf of Guinea nations in November 2024. The symposium discussed the operationalization of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the region.

    In February 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, signed an agreement with the African Union for strategic sealift support by the Nigerian Navy. Dewu affirmed the Navy’s readiness to support AU peace operations and humanitarian missions.

    He also announced the establishment of a Special Operations Command in Makurdi, Benue State, on the North Bank of the River Benue, aimed at bolstering security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

    In terms of fleet renewal, the Navy will commission three new patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—acquired from Singapore and South Korea. Additionally, three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters will be added to the Navy’s fleet, bringing the total number of helicopters to 14.

    Dewu also highlighted the Navy’s participation in international exercises, including the recently concluded Exercise Obangame Express 2025, conducted from 10 to 16 May with partner nations such as the USA, Brazil, Italy, and Spain.

    He outlined the Navy Week events, starting with Juma’at prayers on Friday, 23 May in Abuja, and an interdenominational church service on Sunday, 25 May in Lagos. Other activities include Medical Rhapsodies and outreach by the Naval Officers’ Wives Association on Monday, 26 May, a sailing competition and boat race on Wednesday, 28 May, and the unveiling of a remodeled auditorium at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria.

    On Thursday, 29 May, naval ships will be open to public visitors in Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Calabar. On Friday, 30 May, the public will have an opportunity to go onboard ships for sea cruises, and there will also be a golf tournament at the Dolphin Golf Club in Navy Town, Lagos.

    The commissioning of ships, helicopters, and accommodation for junior officers will take place on Saturday, 31 May at NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos, while the celebration will end on Sunday, 1 June with a ceremonial sunset and dinner at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Rear Admiral Dewu appreciated the media for its continued support and called on journalists to give adequate publicity to the Navy Week activities.

    He then opened the floor for questions from members of the press.

  • Eastern Naval Command Boosts Personnels Proficiency With Small Arms Firing Exercise To Prepare Troops For Combat Scenarios

    Eastern Naval Command Boosts Personnels Proficiency With Small Arms Firing Exercise To Prepare Troops For Combat Scenarios


    In line with Nigerian Navy schedule of events 2025, Headquarters Eastern Naval Command kicks off a 3-day small arms firing exercise which started on Wednesday 14 and ended Friday 16 May 2025 at the Nigerian Police Shooting Range in Asabanka community, in Calabar.

    The exercise which aims to:
    Enhance marksmanship skills , Improve weapon handling and safety, Prepare troops for combat scenarios and Maintain operational readiness, commenced with the kickoff shot fired by Rear Admiral DM Ndanusa who represented the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral SA Akinwande.

    All units under Eastern Naval Command in Calabar Area and the Naval War College of Nigeria participated in the 3 days exercise.
    The exercise was designed to enhance the professionalism and mission readiness of naval personnel in response to emerging security threats.

    The exercise included full-scale live-fire drills, with participants firing various weapons at different distances, ranging from 200m, 100m, and 50m respectively. The exercise equally reinforced cooperation as some Nigerian Army gunnery instructors from the Nigeria Army 13 Brigade were invited for the exercise.

    Participants were grouped into 10-man syndicates, allowing for effective supervision and guidance, testing their marksmanship skills.
    The Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral SA Akinwande, in his closing remarks emphasized the importance of such exercises in maintaining personnel proficiency and enhancing operational readiness.

    The Firing Exercise was a resounding success, demonstrating the Eastern Naval Command’s commitment to enhancing the professionalism and mission readiness of personnel.

  • WE ARE OPEN TO COLLABORATION: GOC 81 Division Emphasised As He Hosted Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard

    WE ARE OPEN TO COLLABORATION: GOC 81 Division Emphasised As He Hosted Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard


    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to collaborating with other security agencies in Lagos and Ogun states. He made this known during a courtesy visit to the Division’s Headquarters by the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral IE Shehu on 6 May 25 at Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The GOC reiterated the Division’s commitment to joint operations with the Sister Services and other security agencies within the Division’s Area of Operations.

    He emphasized that such collaboration is imperative for effective security of lives and properties within the Area of Responsibility (AOR) as well as flourishing of economic activities.

    Major General Mijinyawa noted that the continuous crackdown on criminal activities that could hinder peace and security in the AOR are yielding positive results.

    Stating the purpose of the visit, the Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral IE Shehu stressed that the initiative was aimed at enhancing existing collaboration and ensuring seamless operational activities. He pledged the full support of the Naval Dockyard through essential engineering services and technical maintenance of platforms to support the Division’s operations.

    “We are committed to building on established relationships and opening new channels for collaboration,” Rear Admiral Shehu stated, underscoring the Dockyard’s readiness to fully support the Division’s efforts.

    The visit which is a decisive move to further fortify security in Lagos and Ogun states and boost inter-agency cooperation marked a significant milestone in reinforcing the strategic partnership between the NN and the NA, with a clear focus on further safeguarding Lagos and neighbouring states.

    The highlights of the visit include the exchange of souvenirs, interactive sessions, the admiral’s endorsement of the Visitors’ Book, and group photographs to commemorate the occasion.

    The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Nigerian Army.

  • NAFRC Partners EMPRETEC To Graduate Military Officers From Entrepreneurship & Management Training Programme

    NAFRC Partners EMPRETEC To Graduate Military Officers From Entrepreneurship & Management Training Programme


    The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), in collaboration with the EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, has graduated 30 military officers from its quarterly Senior and Mid-Level Entrepreneurship and Management Training Course (14/2025), held at the Centre’s Resource Complex in Oshodi.

    The graduation ceremony, Chaired by the Chairman Empretec Nigeria Foundation, H.E. Donald Duke—marked the culmination of a six-week intensive training aimed at equipping participants with entrepreneurial, vocational, and leadership skills needed for life during and after military service.

    In his keynote address, Duke lauded the efforts of the Commandant and the training team, emphasizing that the course has empowered the officers with essential tools for innovation, business development, and community impact.

    “As ‘Empretecos,’ I urge you to embrace innovation, effective management, and social responsibility. The entrepreneurial mindset you’ve developed here will drive positive change in our society,” he said.

    Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman, praised the graduating officers for their dedication and described the training as a strategic initiative to boost productivity, self-reliance, and post-service reintegration. He stated that the curriculum had been reviewed to meet the high standards expected of senior officers, with a focus on agriculture as demonstrated by the participants’ visit to Songhai Farms in Benin Republic.

    “You have been empowered to shape the future, turn visions into realities, and contribute to national development. Leadership is not just about authority—it is about empowering others,” AVM Mamman charged the officers.

    He also announced that the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) will visit the Centre in June to facilitate business registration for the new graduates, encouraging them to formalize their ventures.

    Donald Duke commended the initiative, calling it a transformational platform for military personnel. He noted the importance of preparing officers—many of whom joined the military at a young age—for successful transitions into civilian life.

    Director of Training, Brigadier General IO Olatunji, revealed that 30 participants—comprising 13 mid-level officers, 13 senior officers, and four NAFRC personnel—successfully completed the course out of the 85 expected. He acknowledged their exceptional discipline and coordination throughout the training.

    The event featured the formal conferment of graduation by AVM Mamman, along with certificate presentations and awards for outstanding performance.

    The programme reinforces NAFRC’s commitment to preparing Nigerian military officers for entrepreneurial success and sustainable livelihoods beyond active service.

  • AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills

    AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills


    In a renewed drive to empower officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces with vital post-service life skills, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) on Monday inaugurated the 14th edition of the Middle and Senior-Level Officers’ Entrepreneurship and Management Course. The programme, held in collaboration with EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, marks the second of four sessions scheduled for the year 2025.

    Addressing participants at the official opening ceremony, Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the course. He emphasized that while the training is not a pre-retirement programme, it is critical in preparing officers for the realities of post-service life.

    “This Course will equip you with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to navigate the dynamic world of business and leadership,” AVM Mamman stated. “It aligns with our mandate to provide quality training that adequately prepares personnel for reintegration into civilian life.”

    AVM Mamman disclosed that the Centre has so far trained over 47,000 personnel from the Senior Non-Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers cadre, many of whom now successfully run small and medium-scale businesses across Nigeria. He added that over 200 senior officers have benefited from this course since its inception, a number expected to grow significantly in 2025 with its quarterly rollout.

    He further noted that the training covers core areas such as entrepreneurship, agriculture, business law, human resource management, and marketing. In his words, “Success in entrepreneurship is not just about a great idea, but about strategic planning, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to hard work.”

    In her keynote address, Mrs. Onari Duke, Country Director of EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, lauded the Defence Headquarters and NAFRC leadership for their unwavering commitment to officer development. She said the collaboration reflects a national need to shift focus from traditional employment to entrepreneurship in addressing economic challenges.

    “NAFRC’s commitment to capacity building is critical in today’s entrepreneurial landscape,” she said. “This course will empower senior and mid-level officers with the skills required to succeed as entrepreneurs and managers in their post-service journeys.”

    Mrs. Duke highlighted the comprehensive curriculum for the training, which includes practical sessions, workshops, and visits to successful enterprises like Spectra Industries, Calaway Farms, Commint Buka, and Songhai Farm in Port Novo. She emphasized that the training represents a vital mindset shift for officers who have long devoted their lives to service, offering them a rare opportunity to invest in personal growth and future impact.

    Courses for senior officers include *21st Century Leadership Challenge*, *Strategic Thinking for Profitability*, *Financial Modelling and Budget Forecasting*, *Project Management*, *Conflict Resolution*, and *Corporate Governance*. Meanwhile, mid-level officers are receiving instruction in *Emotional Mastery*, *Inventory Management*, *Health and Wellness*, *Business Expansion*, and *Product Specification*.

    The Commandant officially inaugurated the course and charged participants to fully embrace the opportunity to plan, strategize, and begin building their entrepreneurial future while still in service.

    The event concluded with appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for his support and foresight, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his enduring leadership and commitment to the welfare of military personnel.

    The initiative reinforces NAFRC’s vision of preparing service personnel for a seamless transition into impactful civilian life through entrepreneurship, innovation, and enterprise development.

  • Admiral Oamen Receives Naval Engineering, Reaffirms Technical Support for Fleet Readiness

    Admiral Oamen Receives Naval Engineering, Reaffirms Technical Support for Fleet Readiness

    The Chief of Naval Engineering (CONE), Rear Admiral B. Iyalla, on Wednesday, April 3, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral M.G. Oamen, at the Command Headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.

    The visit, part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration with naval units and establishments in the Lagos area, provided an avenue for the two senior officers to deliberate on critical issues concerning engineering support and infrastructural development within the Western Naval Command.

    Rear Admiral Iyalla praised the leadership of Rear Admiral Oamen for his commitment to fleet readiness and operational efficiency. He reaffirmed the Naval Engineering branch’s dedication to providing the necessary technical assistance required to sustain and enhance the operational capabilities of the Command.

    In his remarks, Rear Admiral Oamen expressed gratitude for the visit and emphasized the importance of continuous synergy between the engineering arm and operational commands. He assured that the Western Naval Command would remain committed to maintaining high engineering standards and supporting the broader development goals of the Nigerian Navy.

    The visit underscores the Navy’s drive to ensure seamless integration between its engineering and operational components in pursuit of maritime security and national defense objectives.

  • Navy Seizes Over 340,000 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil, Shuts Down 30 Illegal Refineries in March 2025

    Navy Seizes Over 340,000 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil, Shuts Down 30 Illegal Refineries in March 2025

    The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing anti-crude oil theft campaign, Operation DELTA SANITY II, with the seizure of over 340,000 litres of stolen crude oil and the deactivation of at least 30 illegal refinery sites across the Niger Delta region in the month of March 2025.

    According to a statement released by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, the Navy also recovered large quantities of illegally refined petroleum products, arrested suspects, and uncovered illegal arms during operations in Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Ondo States.

    Among the major highlights of the operation, on March 7, an illegal refinery site was discovered at Oteghele, Obodo Omadino in Warri, Delta State, with 5,500 litres of stolen crude and 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO. On March 9, the Navy intercepted MFT Olokun VIII, a vessel with IMO number 8778275, carrying illegal arms and ammunition on the Saint Nicholas River in Bayelsa. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal firearms.

    On March 13, the largest haul was recorded at Ohaji/Egbema West in Rivers State, where eight illegal refinery sites and 55 ovens holding 55,000 litres of stolen crude and 4,000 litres of AGO were seized. On March 25, a massive wooden boat carrying 100,000 litres of crude oil was seized around Egbessan oilfield in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. Similarly, on March 27, a suspected cultist/kidnappers’ camp and four vandalized wellheads were uncovered alongside 70,000 litres of crude oil, 25,000 litres of AGO, and 15,000 litres of kerosene in Rivers State.

    The operation concluded on March 31 with the deactivation of 12 refining ovens and two dugout pits containing 30,000 litres of crude oil and 5,000 litres of AGO in Tumburu and Biseni forest, Bayelsa State.

    In total, the Nigerian Navy neutralized over 30 illegal refinery sites, seized more than 340,000 litres of crude oil, and confiscated a large cache of petroleum products, arms, and refining equipment.

    The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, reiterated the Navy’s resolve to maintain aggressive patrols and operations to safeguard Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and boost crude oil output in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive.

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