Category: News

Sterling Bank Limited has brought together stakeholders in the renewable energy industry to explore ways to accelerate action in the sector. The premier colloquium, held in Lagos on Monday, aimed to identify priority areas for action to increase energy access and drive economic growth in the quest to attain a one trillion-dollar economy.

Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Bank Limited, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, gave the charge in his address at the colloquium organized with the theme: Beyond The Grid; Unlocking New Frontiers in Renewable Energy.

The CEO, who was represented by Dele Faseemo, Group Executive, Corporate & Investment Banking, explained that Sterling Bank will be paying closer attention to policy actions in two or three key priority areas, especially regulation and financing.

He noted that by focusing on these areas, the Bank can do more to drive progress and expand access to energy, which he described as essential for supporting economic growth and overall development.

In a keynote address titled Scaling Electrification in Nigeria, The REA Impact, Managing Director and CEO of The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr. Abba Aliyu, spoke on the vision, mission and mandate of the agency.

He noted that Nigeria requires about $26 billion to address its energy deficit. He said the energy transition in Nigeria is a strategic shift towards achieving universal, reliable and sustainable energy access by integrating the grid, mini-grid and off grid technologies while aligning with national development and climate goals.

The CEO who was represented by Mr. Abba Hayatudden, Senior Advisor to the MD, said “REA is strategically expanding and optimizing channels to accelerate the adoption and sustainable growth of renewable energy acrossthe country in the areas of value chain development, regulation enhancement, funding windows, alternative resources and technical standardization.”

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, commended Sterling Bank for convening the conversation on renewable energy.

He stated that the Federal Government has placed renewable energy and rural electrification at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The minister who was represented by Engineer Samuel Ayangeaor said, “The Federal Ministry of Power has continued to expand electricity access to underserved communities in a bid to drive economic growth, foster industrial activity and create jobs across the nation.”

In his goodwill message, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, noted that the current administration is implementing the most ambitious energy transformation ever undertaken.

He highlighted the state’s efforts in renewable energy and sustainability, including the two-gigawatt Lagos grid scale solar project.

The CEO of Sterling One Foundation, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, emphasized the need for collective action. She urged participants not to allow the day’s deliberations to end as mere conversations or points documented in a communiqué.

Instead, she encouraged everyone to leverage the strength of their networks, act with intention, and remain focused on delivering meaningful impact.

The colloquium featured two panel sessions on financing and scaling green energy solutions in Africa, among others. Sterling Bank Limited 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 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.

The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The President gave the assurance at the opening ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, holding in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, President Bola Ahamed Tinubu paid glowing tribute to serving and retired senior military officers whose sacrifices, leadership and institutional memory have continued to shape the Nigerian Army. Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, he described the gathering of elder statesmen and former Service Chiefs as a testament to the enduring heritage, professionalism and fighting spirit of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The President commended the courage and patriotism of officers and soldiers who consistently place national duty above personal comfort, noting that their sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity would remain indelibly etched in the nation’s history. He observed that the Annual Conference provides a critical platform for honest reflection, strategic evaluation and continuous improvement in the Army’s training, administration and operations, particularly in the face of evolving global, regional and national security challenges.

Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, retired, OFR, described the conference as a vital strategic forum for reviewing operational posture, assessing readiness and aligning the Nigerian Army’s future direction with national security priorities. He commended the resilience and professionalism of Army personnel and acknowledged the contributions of past Service Chiefs and senior officers, both serving and retired.

The Defence Minister emphasized the importance of joint operations, inter-agency collaboration and a whole-of-society approach in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges. He urged senior commanders to ensure that the outcomes of the conference translate into concrete operational actions and measurable results on the battlefield.

In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal expressed profound appreciation to the President for his sustained political will and strategic support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernization, training and institutional reforms. He also acknowledged the invaluable legislative and budgetary support of the National Assembly, which he said has significantly enhanced the Army’s operational readiness across all theatres.

The COAS reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains at the forefront of national efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality. He added that the Army is deliberately transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven force capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats. He urged participants to be guided by patriotism, professionalism and a shared commitment to national peace and stability during their deliberations.

Also speaking, the Lagos state Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described security as a fundamental prerequisite for development and commended the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in preserving national unity and safeguarding democratic governance. He particularly lauded Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, for its contributions to peace and stability in Lagos State and assured the continued support of the Lagos State Government for the Nigerian Army.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army Staff, senior military officers serving and retired, heads of security agencies, diplomats and other distinguished guests.

The Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025 is expected to deliberate on key operational, administrative and strategic issues aimed at further strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

Polaris Bank, in partnership with Evolve Charity Trust, has successfully concluded its 2025 nationwide distribution of school essentials to 1,000 students across ten public secondary schools in five states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The initiative is part of the Bank’s sustained Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts to keep more children, especially the girl child, in school.

This year’s exercise adds to a growing intervention that has supported more than 24,000 students in public schools across 49 locations since 2021.

This year’s beneficiaries received a complete learning kit consisting of a school uniform, school bag, a pair of sandals, six exercise books and pens. According to school authorities, these materials continue to improve attendance, boost confidence and support academic performance.

In delivering the programme, Polaris Bank also stimulated the local economy by sourcing uniforms from local tailors, procuring books from bookshops and purchasing sandals and bags from community traders, thereby supporting small businesses across the beneficiary states.

Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Kayode Lawal, reaffirmed the Bank’s five-year promise to champion the education of Nigeria’s girl child, noting that the materials are symbols of belief in the students’ potential to become scholars, innovators and future leaders.

School administrators across the country expressed gratitude for the timely support, noting that the essentials meet real and urgent needs, ease the burden on families and positively impact academic performance. Many students come from homes where parents cannot afford these items and the gesture has restored pride among beneficiaries.

Representatives of the Bank reiterated their commitment to improving access to education, championing access to quality learning, and encouraging students to make the best use of the materials and stay committed to success.

The 2025 distribution covered the following schools: Government Girls Secondary School, Kundila, Kano; Model Junior Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja; Government Junior Secondary School, Area 10, Garki, Abuja; Fortune Secondary School, Lokoja, Kogi State; National High School, Arondizuogu, Imo State; Iheme Memorial Secondary School, Iheme, Imo State; Akokwa High School, Akokwa, Imo State; Opebi Junior Grammar School, Opebi, Lagos; Gbaja Girls Junior Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos; and Gbaja Girls Senior Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos.

Expressing gratitude for the timely support, Hajiya Aisha Shehu Yakasai, Principal of Government Girls Secondary School in Kundila, Kano, said the essentials “meet real and urgent needs” and have eased the burden on families. Aso, Madam Maji-Abu Omanyo Esther, Principal of Fortune Secondary School, Lokoja, described the gesture as one that “brought joy and will positively impact academic performance.”

Commending the Bank for restoring pride among beneficiaries, Mrs. Erdoo Lortyom, Vice Principal at Model Junior Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja, noted that many students come from homes where parents cannot afford these items while Mrs. Dabiri Nwabuoku Adetoun Iyabo, Principal of Gbaja Girls Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Surulere, thanked Polaris Bank for its “consistent yearly gesture,” assuring that the materials will be put to excellent use.

Representatives of the Bank reiterated their commitment to improving access to education.

In Kano, Branch Head, Mr. Madiebo Godwin, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to “championing access to quality learning,” while in Lokoja, Business Development Manager, David Ojonugwa, encouraged students to “make the best use of the materials and stay committed to success.”

Speaking in Imo State, the Bank’s Business Development Manager for Urualla Branch, Mr. Peter Nnamani, urged students to aim high, noting that every career dream “begins with dedication in school.”

Project Manager of Evolve Charity Trust, Mr. Godwin Ejeh, noted that investing in a child’s education “lights a candle that brightens entire communities,” noting the ripple effect witnessed across states visited during the distribution.

The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality, by promoting inclusive access to education and reducing gender-based barriers that keep girls out of school.

Polaris Bank affirmed its continued commitment to partnering with credible development organisations to deliver sustainable educational impact across Nigeria.

A five-member panel of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Lawal Garba, on Friday ruled in favor of Fidelity Bank in its appeal against Sagecom Concepts Limited. Given previous rulings, this marks a significant victory for Fidelity Bank in a long-running legal dispute.

The judgment brings definitive closure to a legacy case that has attracted attention across the financial sector for more than two decades.

In a motion dated October 8, 2025, Fidelity Bank sought clarification from the Supreme Court, requesting a consequential order that the judgment debt be paid in Naira. The bank also asked that the interest rate be set at 19.5% per annum rather than 19.5% compounded daily. Additionally, it prayed that the exchange rate used for conversion be the rate on the date of the High Court judgment, in line with the Supreme Court’s decision in Anibaba v. Dana Airlines.

Fidelity Bank further requested that the judgment debt be fixed at ₦30,197,286,603.13 and that interest on this amount be payable at 19.5% per annum until full settlement.

In a ruling delivered by Justice Adamu Jauro, the apex court granted the bank’s first three prayers but declined the fourth and fifth. As a result, the judgment sum will be paid in Naira at an annual interest rate of 19.5%, rather than the daily compounded rate previously awarded by the High Court. The Supreme Court also affirmed that the applicable exchange rate should be that of the date of the High Court judgment, consistent with its earlier decision in Anibaba v. Dana Airlines.

The dispute originated from a legacy transaction involving the former FSB International Bank, which merged with Fidelity Bank in 2005. It stemmed from a 2002 credit facility extended to G. Cappa Plc and subsequent legal proceedings tied to the collateral.

This ruling provides finality to years of litigation and confirms a significantly lower liability than the ₦225 billion previously speculated in some quarters. It aligns with Fidelity Bank’s consistent computation and materially contradicts earlier estimates.

Throughout the case, Fidelity Bank’s share price remained stable, reflecting investor confidence in its strong governance framework, prudent risk management, and robust financial fundamentals. Industry experts believe the judgment reinforces the bank’s financial strength and commitment to transparent, responsible governance.

When approached for comment, Fidelity Bank representatives declined to speak on the matter but expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for bringing clarity and closure to the case.

The Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) of the Nigeria Customs Service and renowned anti-smuggling czar, Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu, has paid glowing tributes to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD, MFR, describing him as a transformative leader who gave him the platform to fully showcase his professional capabilities in the Service.

Speaking during an interview on the sidelines of his well-attended retirement ceremony held in Lagos on Sunday, ACG Ejibunu reflected on a distinguished 35-year career in the Nigeria Customs Service, marked by dedication, sacrifice, and frontline enforcement against smuggling.

Looking back on his journey, Ejibunu revealed that three individuals played defining roles in shaping his career and giving his service meaning. He identified Senator Francis Ade Fadahunsi, MFR; former Comptroller-General of Customs, Hameed Ali (rtd); and the incumbent Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as key figures who “showcased him to the world.”

He also acknowledged the support of the former Minister of Industry and the former Minister of Interior, Major General Abdullahi Bagudu (rtd), who facilitated his enlistment into the Nigeria Customs Service.

According to Ejibunu, it was Senator Fadahunsi who first brought him into the CG Strike Force when the senator served as its Coordinator.

“I remained the last man standing with him at the time. He believed in me and gave me the opportunity to prove myself,” he recalled.

He further disclosed that while he was posted to the Customs Headquarters in Abuja, former CG Hameed Ali appointed him Commander of the Strike Force in Abuja, following a major enforcement breakthrough.

“One day, in the line of duty, I intercepted 22 Hilux vehicles inside a military barracks. That incident made CG Ali start watching me closely. When the opportunity arose at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, he immediately drafted me to superintend over the unit,” Ejibunu said.

Reflecting on his elevation under the current administration, Ejibunu noted that his rise under CG Adeniyi was driven purely by merit and performance.

“When CG Adeniyi assumed office, some officers, out of sentiments, demanded my removal. But he said, ‘No.’ In December 2023, he promoted me to the rank of Comptroller,” he stated.

He added that in April 2024, CG Adeniyi appointed him to the Abuja Headquarters as the Pioneer National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, a special initiative aimed at curbing the smuggling of petroleum products.

“Under Operation Whirlwind, we worked closely with multiple security and regulatory agencies to nip fuel smuggling in the bud. It was during this period that CG Adeniyi further elevated me to the rank of Assistant Comptroller General,” Ejibunu disclosed.

According to him, the successes recorded by Operation Whirlwind earned the team a Presidential Commendation, further validating the effectiveness of the initiative.

On the future of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ejibunu advised CG Adeniyi to ensure the completion of the ongoing institutional reforms before the end of his tenure.

“It is important that these reforms are fully concluded so that the younger officers coming behind us are well-grounded and able to sustain the stability and progress of the Service,” he said.

While expressing concern over the gradual exit of highly experienced officers, Ejibunu maintained that there remains hope in the current crop of officers to uphold professionalism and institutional values if properly mentored.

Recounting his most painful experience in service, the retired ACG described the death of two of his officers during an operation at FOU Zone A as the most traumatic moment of his career. “I wept bitterly,” he said emotionally.

He revealed that one of the slain officers was dumped in a ditch after Customs operatives were ambushed by smugglers. “After that ugly incident, I gave a directive that such criminals should be shot from the kneecap downward. We would treat them and then charge them to court,” Ejibunu stated.

He also recalled a dangerous encounter with lions in Niger State during an operation that led to the interception of 65 used (‘tokunbo’) vehicles, underscoring the risks faced by officers in the line of duty.

ACG Ejibunu concluded by thanking Almighty God for His protection and mercy throughout his 35 years of active service in the Nigeria Customs Service.

The retirement ceremony was attended by several serving and retired senior Customs officers and government functionaries, including Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) Alajogun, fsi; DCG Omale; DCG Adeola; and DCG Abba Kura.

Also in attendance were ACG Joy Edelduok; Comptroller Aliyu of FOU Zone A; Deputy Comptroller Afeni CAC of the Idiroko Border Command; and a representative of the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, among others.

During a coordinated operation at Urohi Village, Esan West Local Government Area of the State, the Edo State Police Command has arrested twenty-seven (27) suspected members of the Neo Black Axe Movement of Nigeria (A.K.A Black Axe).

According to a press statement issued by ASP Eno Ikoedem, Police Public Relations Officer, Edo State Command “The operation, which took place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at about 10:00pm, followed credible intelligence that the suspected cult group had converged in the area, about 18 kilometres from Ekpoma, for an initiation exercise.

Acting on credible intelligence at the disposal of the command, the Divisional Police Officer, Ekpoma Division, SP Nelson Igbinoba, was swiftly deployed to lead a combined team of Police tactical operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters to the location. During the attempt to arrest the suspects, one of the cultists opened fire on the Police and in a fierce gun duel, the suspect was neutralised in the ensuing exchange.

Twenty-seven (27) suspects were successfully arrested, while the following items were recovered and registered as exhibits:
• One locally made shotgun
• One live cartridge
• One battle axe
• One knife
• One Toyota Camry with registration number AUC 377 LU
• One Toyota Camry with registration number RBC 867 JJ
• One Lexus RX Jeep without registration number
• 51 cell phones of different make
• ⁠15 Pairs of different colors of Timberland boots
• ⁠Several Sling bags all containing substance suspected to be Indian hemp

The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered for their immediate transfer to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough investigation and onward prosecution. He also commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism. He reassures members of the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating cultism and all forms of criminality across the State, while urging residents to continue to support the Police with timely and credible information through the available emergency lines.
08077773721 &
08037646272

For Complaints;
CRU- 08100389992

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) are strengthening their collaboration to combat the diversion of petroleum products intended for domestic use and to safeguard Nigeria’s energy security.

This renewed partnership, highlighted during a meeting between Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi and NMDPRA Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ogbugo Ukoha on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, at Customs House, Maitama, Abuja.

During the engagement, CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to strengthening interagency cooperation, particularly in safeguarding Nigeria’s domestic energy security and ensuring that petroleum products meant for local consumption are not diverted to neighbouring countries.

He noted that collaboration between both agencies had already produced measurable results, especially through Operation Whirlwind, which he described as a model for intelligence sharing, joint enforcement and coordinated field operations.

CGC Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service remains fully aligned with ongoing reforms in the petroleum regulatory space and will continue to provide technical input, operational feedback and border management expertise to support the implementation of new guidelines being developed by the NMDPRA.

He commended the Authority for its efforts to harmonise legacy processes with the Petroleum Industry Act, stressing that clear and efficient export point procedures are essential as Nigeria moves from being a net importer to an emerging exporter of petroleum products.

“We welcome every initiative that strengthens energy security and ensures that the gains made in reducing cross border diversion are not reversed. Our shared responsibility is to protect national interest, support legitimate trade and maintain a transparent system that stakeholders can rely on. We will continue to work closely with sister agencies to achieve these outcomes,” he stated.

In his remarks, the Executive Director, Ukoha, said the NMDPRA enjoys a longstanding and productive working relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service, noting that Operation Whirlwind remained the high point of that collaboration.

He explained that both agencies deployed personnel, exchanged intelligence and jointly monitored petroleum products in border corridors, leading to a marked reduction in cross border diversion.

Ukoha said the purpose of the visit was to brief the CGC on newly developed guidelines for designating export points for petroleum products as Nigeria’s refining capacity expands.

He said the NMDPRA is engaging key institutions, including Customs, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Nigerian Navy, to ensure the guidelines reflect operational realities before implementation.

He recalled several field operations and strategic engagements with the Customs leadership, including the joint launch of Operation Whirlwind in Yola, where both agencies reinforced their commitment to curbing diversion and securing the domestic supply chain.

He added that while enforcement had played a major role in reducing irregular movements of petroleum products, the removal of fuel subsidy had significantly reduced the economic incentive for cross border smuggling.

According to him, the NMDPRA will continue to work closely with the Customs Service to sustain progress and ensure that petroleum exports are properly regulated without exposing the country to energy security risks.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged students of the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria, to uphold discipline, academic excellence and focus, describing the institution as a sacred foundation that would shape their future contributions to national development.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “The COAS gave the charge on Saturday while addressing students of the school during an official visit.

Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that while some of the students would progress to further military training and eventually serve as officers of the Armed Forces, others would proceed to tertiary institutions, where they are expected to distinguish themselves through the discipline and values imbibed at NMS.

“Wherever you find yourselves in the future, you will be different from your peers because of the discipline, enthusiasm and leadership values instilled in you here. This institution will always remain part of your life,” he said.

He assured the students that the Nigerian Army was making sustained investments to improve teaching methodology, classroom aesthetics and the deployment of modern technology to provide a world-class learning environment.

The Army Chief also urged the students to uphold the school’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence, particularly its past achievements in inter-school quiz competitions, stressing the importance of hard work and commitment to studies.

“You have emerged through a rigorous selection process and have been introduced to a world-class learning environment. Everything is in place for you to succeed, and you must make the best use of this opportunity,” the COAS stated.

The COAS commended the officers, soldiers and instructors of the school for their dedication to grooming the students, describing them as custodians of the nation’s future leadership.

“These young men are our future. Ensure they are properly guided, protected and kept on the trajectory of excellence,” he added.

He congratulated the entire NMS community for their collective efforts and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining high standards in military education and training.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (NAM), has charged the 3,439 newly trained recruits of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of loyalty, discipline, and professionalism as they formally join the service.

According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “The recruits, who are members of the 89 Regular Intake of the Nigerian Army, have successfully completed six months of intensive training at Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, and were presented during a Passing Out Parade today, marking their official induction into the Army. The parade, described by the COAS as a “testament to your dedication and perseverance,” showcased the skills, discipline, and esprit de corps instilled in the recruits over the course of their training.

Addressing the parade as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, Lieutenant General Shaibu said their successful training reflects hard work, dedication, and discipline.

Highlighting the Army’s role as a professional, combat-ready force, he stressed the significance of the additional manpower in strengthening national security. He noted that the Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational threats and that the new recruits are vital to sustaining operational readiness across the country.

“Your successful training reflects hard work, dedication, and discipline. You have been moulded to meet the highest standards of soldiering and are now entrusted with the sacred duty of safeguarding the territorial integrity of our nation. I have no doubt that you will rise to the challenges ahead and serve with honour, courage, and professionalism.

“The Nigerian Army continues to confront emerging domestic and transnational security threats. Your induction today is not only a boost to our manpower but a reinforcement of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every Nigerian. You are now part of a professional, combat-ready force capable of decisively responding to any threat to our nation,” he said.

The COAS commended Depot Nigerian Army for its historic role in producing professional soldiers since its establishment in 1924, adding that the premier institution remains the backbone of the Nigerian Army’s training capabilities.

“I assure you that it will continue to receive unwavering support in terms of logistics, training infrastructure, and personnel welfare to maintain its high standards.”

Lieutenant General Shaibu urged the recruits to maintain discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights in all operations, stressing that these values are the cornerstone of professional soldiering.

He reminded them of the Oath of Allegiance they took, stating:”By that oath, you are now bound to uphold both civil and military laws. Avoid any act that may tarnish the image of the Nigerian Army or the nation. Serve with honour, dignity, and unwavering loyalty to constituted authority.”

The COAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, and various security agencies for their continuous support to the Nigerian Army. He also commended the Commandant, instructors, and staff of Depot Nigerian Army for their dedication in producing well-trained, professional soldiers.

“Congratulations to the passing-out recruits, your parents, and guardians for this remarkable achievement. May your careers be distinguished, your service exemplary, and your deployment to various Army formations safe and fulfilling,” he concluded.

As part of its end-of-year activities, the Nigerian Navy (NN) on Friday, December 12, 2025, hosted its Ceremonial Sunset, Dinner and Awards Night at the Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the formal close of its operational activities for the year.

The high-profile event brought together top government officials, senior military officers, stakeholders, families, friends and partners of the Service to reflect on achievements recorded in 2025 and honour outstanding officers, ratings and civilian staff.

Speaking at the occasion, the Special Guest of Honour and Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, commended the Nigerian Navy for its sustained use of modern technology and robust operational strategies in addressing maritime threats and enhancing security within Nigeria’s waters and the Gulf of Guinea.

Dr. Matawalle noted that the Navy’s efforts have significantly reduced sea robbery, crude oil theft and other illegal maritime activities, contributing to a safer maritime environment and supporting national economic growth. He assured the Service of the Federal Government’s continued support, stressing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, remains committed to addressing challenges relating to platforms, surveillance equipment and logistics to further strengthen naval operations.

“I commend the officers and men of the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for their professionalism and dedication. The Federal Government will continue to provide the necessary funding and support to enhance your capacity and promote national development,” the Minister said.

He also acknowledged the synergy between the Navy and other security agencies in maintaining peace across riverine and coastal areas, describing the Ceremonial Sunset as an opportunity to relax, reflect and celebrate collective successes. Dr. Matawalle paid tribute to naval personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring their families of the Navy’s continued support.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, described the event as the 25th Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night of the Nigerian Navy, noting that the ceremony is an age-long naval tradition marking the end of activities for a specific period.

Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted 2025 as a year of remarkable progress and operational successes for the Service, particularly in maritime security, anti-oil theft operations, anti-smuggling and anti-human trafficking efforts. He disclosed that Operation Delta Sanity, which was relaunched as Operation Delta Sanity II, recorded significant successes with the arrest of several vessels and suspects involved in crude oil theft.

According to the CNS, the Nigerian Navy also strengthened inter-agency collaboration, handing over seized smuggled items to sister agencies including the Nigeria Customs Service, NDLEA and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. He added that the Navy remains actively involved in joint operations across the six geopolitical zones to enhance national security.

Vice Admiral Abbas further revealed that the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service spearheaded the training of over 6,500 forest guards in January 2025, with an additional 7,000 currently undergoing training to safeguard Nigeria’s vast natural reserves. He also announced the establishment of the Special Operations Command and the Nigerian Navy Marines in April 2025 to bolster rapid response capabilities, with the first batch expected to be deployed in the first quarter of 2026.

On fleet and capability development, the CNS said the Navy took delivery of an AW109 helicopter, 18 unmanned aerial vehicles, and five fast patrol boats, while construction of two 43-metre sea lift defence boats is ongoing and expected to be completed by mid-2026. He noted that these acquisitions will enhance Nigeria’s naval power projection within the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.

Vice Admiral Abbas also outlined extensive infrastructural and welfare improvements across various naval commands, including barracks development, accommodation projects, medical care, educational sponsorships for personnel and families of fallen heroes, as well as improved training facilities. He emphasized that personnel welfare remains a top priority of the Nigerian Navy.

The CNS highlighted the Navy’s role in regional and international maritime cooperation through exercises such as Obangame Express, Grand African Naval Exercise and other multinational engagements, which contributed to Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council after a 14-year absence.

Despite these achievements, Vice Admiral Abbas acknowledged existing challenges, particularly in the area of equipment, expressing optimism that continued government support would help address them. He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, the National Assembly, Lagos State Government, sister services, international partners, and other stakeholders for their unwavering support.

Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barrister Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised the Nigerian Navy for its critical role in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, especially in Lagos, a state deeply shaped by water, commerce and maritime activities.

She described the Ceremonial Sunset as a powerful symbol of discipline, resilience and continuity of service, noting that even as the sun sets, the Navy’s duty never ends. She commended the Navy’s partnership with Lagos State in maritime security, waterways management, environmental protection and the development of the blue economy.

Barrister Salu-Hundeyin celebrated the award recipients for their exemplary service, describing them as role models for future generations, and paid glowing tribute to the families of naval personnel for their sacrifices and unwavering support.

“As a government, we remain committed to building a safer, more resilient and prosperous Lagos in harmony with the Nigerian Navy. We see your work, we honour your sacrifices and we will continue to stand with you as you stand for Nigeria,” she said.

The event featured ceremonial displays, award presentations and social engagements, setting the tone for the Nigerian Navy’s preparations towards 2026, a year that will mark its 70th anniversary, including plans for an international fleet review.