Category: News

In a strategic move to strengthen leadership and reposition the Nigerian Army (NA) for greater operational effectiveness, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has approved the posting and appointment of some senior officers to key command, instructional, and staff positions across various formations and units of the Nigerian Army.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the redeployment encompasses few Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters (AHQ), two General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and Brigade Commanders, among other appointments critical to the Nigerian Army’s operational and administrative structure.

Some of the senior officers appointed as Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters include, Maj Gen AA Adeyinka who was posted from Nigerian Army Corp of Supply and Transport (NACST) to the Department of Army Logistics and appointed Chief of Logistics (Army), Maj Gen AA Adekeye posted from AHQ Department of Standard and Evaluation to AHQ Department of Personnel Management as Chief of Personnel Management (Army), Maj Gen TB Ugiagbe from Headquarters Nigerian Army Intelligence Corp to Army Headquarters Department of Standard and Evaluation and appointed Chief of Standard and Evaluation. Others are Maj Gen AA Idris from Defence Headquarters to Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps and appointed Chief of Military Intelligence (Army), Maj Gen MO Erebulu from the Department of Special Services and Programmes to Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police and appointed Provost Marshall (Army).

Furthermore, Maj Gen EA Anaryu from Defence Space Administration have been redeployed and appointed Corps Commander Supply and Transport while Maj Gen SA Akesode from Office of the National Security Adviser to African Union Verification Mission in Tigray Region, Ethiopia as Head of Mission, while Maj Gen JE Osifo from Nigerian Army School of Finance and Accounts, to Nigerian Army Finance Corporation as Director General.

Senior officers appointed as General Officers Commanding (GOCs) are Major General ASM Wase from Department of Training to Headquarters 1 Division/Sector 1 Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) as GOC 1 Division/Commander Sector 1, Maj Gen CR Nnebeife is also appointed as the General Officer Commanding 2 Division/ Sector 3 Joint Task Force OPFY.

Some of the senior officers appointed as Commandants of NA Training Institutions are, Maj Gen MO Ihanuwaze from Nigerian Army Finance Insurance Corporation to Nigerian Army Finance School and Administration and appointed Commandant, Maj Gen KO Osemwegie now the commandant Army Signal School, Maj Gen AJ Aliyu also appointed commandant Nigerian Army Ordinance School, while Maj Gen AC Adetoba was posted from the Department of Transformation and Innovation to Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management as commandant amongst others.

Other senior officers also affected in the redeployment are Brig Gen M Jimoh from HQ Operation FANSAN YAMMA to HQ 1 Brigade as Commander, Brig Gen NE Okoloagu from Army War College Nigeria to 2 Brigade as Commander as well as Brig Gen AA Bello from Nigerian Army School of Infantry to 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 JTF South South Operation DELTA SAFE as Commander.

The Chief of Army Staff has charged the newly appointed senior officers to redouble their effort and commitment to duty in ensuring the sustenance of the ongoing onslaught against terrorism, insurgency and other threats to national security, as they assume their new appointments. He also reiterates his commitment to welfare of troops as paramount to operational successes.

The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has announced that it will conduct its Second Annual Range Classification Exercise for 2025 from August 18 to September 28 at the Division’s Shooting Range in Ajilete, Ogun State.

According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel M.A. Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Division, the exercise is part of the Nigerian Army’s 2025 Forecast of Events and will include troop movements and live ammunition firing.

The Army assured the public that the exercise is routine and urged residents of Ajilete and surrounding communities not to panic over the sounds of gunfire or troop activities during the period.

“For safety reasons, farmers, herders, and other law-abiding citizens operating near the range areas are strongly advised to stay away throughout the exercise period,” the statement added.

The Division also appealed to the media to assist in sensitizing the public to ensure understanding and cooperation.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, earlier today laid the foundation for the Nigerian Army Special Forces School (NASFS) in Doma, Nasarawa State, describing it as “a legacy of excellence, bravery and sacrifice” that will redefine the training of Nigeria’s elite troops.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the initiative designed to produce highly skilled warriors capable of dominating complex and unconventional battlefields, marks a strategic leap in strengthening the Nigerian Army’s combat power towards safeguarding the nation’s future.

Originally established in Buni Yadi, Yobe State, as part of Nigerian Army’s response to evolving security threats, the school’s relocation to Doma offers an enhanced environment for advanced, mission-specific training. The Buni Yadi facility will now serve as the Nigerian Army Acclimatization Center, dedicated to preparing troops for the unique challenges of operations in the North East theatre.

Speaking at the event, Lt Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to delivering world-class training and equipment, ensuring Nigerian Army’s Special Forces remain “unconquerable” and at par with their global counterparts.

The COAS also commissioned two other major projects, including the new 4 Special Forces Command Headquarters and a modern Officers’ Mess completed with operational workspaces, conference facilitie and recreational amenities designed to enhance capacity, welfare and morale of personnel.

Earlier in Lafia, the COAS paid a courtesy call on the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr Abdullahi Sule, highlighting the Nigerian Army’s national character and urging collective civilian-military collaboration in securing the country. Governor Sule lauded the Army’s role in maintaining stability, enabling agriculture and mining to thrive in the state despite regional security pressures.

The ceremony climaxed with a symbolic tree planting, a gift presentation to the COAS by the Andoma of Doma in recognition of his leadership and a group photograph with dignitaries.

In a bid to accelerate national economic growth, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) under the framework of the National Export Strategy (NES) have reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration. Both agencies aim to streamline export procedures, enhance trade facilitation, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks that hinder non-oil exports.

National President Professor Adeola Adenikinju led a delegation comprising members of the Governing Council and the FCT Chapter Chairman on a courtesy visit to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adawale Adeniyi, at the Service’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, 13 August 2025.

Emphasising the need for stronger collaboration to advance Nigeria’s development agenda, the CGC said, “While the NES provides evidence-based economic research and policy recommendations, the NCS plays a pivotal role in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and the enforcement of fiscal policies that directly shape the economy.”

He underscored the importance of aligning economic research with the operational realities at Nigeria’s borders to foster policy efficiency and enhance the nation’s trade competitiveness.

Professor Adenikinju formally invited the CGC to participate in the forthcoming conference, noting that his insights would be invaluable to deliberations on economic transformation. He highlighted that Customs’ unique access to data on trade patterns, revenue trends, and cross-border economic activity positions it as a crucial partner in shaping sound economic policies.

The NES President also announced the Comptroller-General’s nomination for the 2025 Distinguished Public Service Award (DPSNES), one of the Society’s highest honours. The nomination recognises his leadership in modernising Customs operations, boosting revenue collection, and implementing innovative trade facilitation measures that have strengthened Nigeria’s economic stability and growth.

According to the NES, the award celebrates public servants whose work has tangibly advanced the nation’s economic development objectives. The Comptroller-General’s nomination, they said, reflects the transformative impact of ongoing reforms under the current Customs leadership.

The Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced a significant leap in revenue collection and compliance for the first half of 2025, alongside notable anti-smuggling achievements.

Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, August 15, 2025, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Eghosa Joy Edelduok, said the Command collected ₦89.2 billion between January and June 2025, compared to ₦54.8 billion recorded in the same period in 2024. The increase of ₦34.3 billion represents a 63 percent growth.

Comptroller Edelduok attributed the performance to focused reforms, targeted enforcement, and practical compliance strategies aimed at protecting the national economy and securing borders under the Command’s jurisdiction.

On enforcement activities, she disclosed that the Command intercepted two 40-foot containers laden with expired pharmaceutical products valued at ₦130 million. The seized items, which contravened the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and other import laws, are being handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

Reiterating the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on infractions, Edelduok said the seizures underscored its commitment to safeguarding public health while maintaining transparency, accountability, and professionalism.

She commended the officers and men of the Command for their diligence and discipline, while also appreciating stakeholders, partner agencies, and the media for their continued cooperation and support.

The Customs Area Controller further expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his management team for providing strategic guidance and an enabling environment for operational success.

Edelduok assured that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command would continue to drive compliance, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and deliver on its statutory mandate in line with the Service’s broader goals of national security, economic growth, and service excellence.

The Nigerian Navy Military School Ikot Ntuen Under the leadership of The Commandant Captain OB Oko celebrated excellence and determination on Friday 15 August 2025, with a grand Speech and Prize Giving Day ceremony. The event honored outstanding young sailors and staff who have demonstrated remarkable academic and military prowess.

The ceremony was graced by The chairman of the Institution’s governing board and Chief of Administration (COA) Naval Headquarters, who served as the special guest of honor, Rear Admiral GSM Aligwe, Other notable attendees included Director of Naval Education, Captain CO Dick-Ubi, senior officers, professors, and prominent state dignitaries.

In his address, The Chief of Administration and Special Guest of honour, Rear Admiral GSM Aligwe, encouraged the young sailors to embrace challenges and persevere in pursuit of their dreams, commending the Commandant Captain OB Oko and the school’s staff on their outstanding achievements. Professor Udosen Alice Effong, the guest lecturer, delivered a compelling lecture titled “Determination as a Key to Success in Both Life and Career,” urging the young sailors to remain resolute in their pursuit of excellence.

Highlights of the ceremony included award Presentations to deserving young sailors, officers, and civilian staff in recognition of their hard work and dedication.
Parent-Instructor Association (PIA) also made a special presentation to The Commandant Captain OB Oko, acknowledging his tireless efforts and commitment to the school’s success.

A cultural dance display by the Young Sailors and launch of the 3rd edition of the Nigerian Navy Military School Magazine (The Young Sailors Magazine)
The ceremony concluded with group photographs, capturing the joy and sense of accomplishment that filled the event.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral MG Oamen, has paid a courtesy visit to the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, at the Institute’s Lagos headquarters, with a focus on enhancing collaboration in maritime security, foreign policy, and strategic research.

During the August 14, 2025 meeting, Rear Admiral Oamen underscored the Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting that naval operations are closely linked to the country’s foreign policy objectives. He stressed the importance of protecting maritime trade routes and promoting regional stability, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea.

Professor Osaghae commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to national security and emphasised the value of knowledge sharing, collaborative research, and strategic dialogue between the NIIA and the Navy. He said such cooperation was critical in addressing evolving maritime threats and shaping informed policy decisions.

Both sides explored potential areas of partnership, including academic research, policy development, and joint participation in regional maritime security forums. The visit ended with an exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph, signalling their shared commitment to strengthening institutional cooperation in the interest of national and regional security.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched its Reputation Management Campaign in Zone ‘B’, Kaduna, marking another major step in a nationwide drive to strengthen institutional integrity, build public trust, and improve service delivery.

The campaign flag-off took place on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’ auditorium in Kawo, Kaduna State. The event brought together representatives from commands across the zone and featured train-the-trainer sessions to equip key officers with the skills to embed the principles of reputation management across all formations in Zone ‘B’.

In his remarks, Customs Area Controller for FOU Zone ‘B’, Comptroller Aliyu Alkalia, thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi and the Management Team for initiating the Guide, calling it “a significant milestone in the journey to enhance service delivery and project the positive image of the organisation.”

“Reputation is everything in the Service. It is the foundation for building trust and distinguishing the Nigeria Customs Service. Our conduct as officers directly shapes the Service’s image, and the seven golden rules serve as our compass for promoting transparency, accountability, and professionalism,” Alkalia said.

Delivering the keynote address, Zonal Coordinator, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Adekunle Oloyede represented by Comptroller Ofonime Ido stressed that a strong reputation underpins operational success and fosters public cooperation.

“As representatives of the Nigeria Customs Service, we are ambassadors of our organisation. Our behaviour and conduct directly affect how the public perceives us,” he noted.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Assistant Comptroller (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of consistent communication and professionalism in sustaining the Service’s credibility.

The train-the-trainer sessions provided practical strategies for instilling the Guide’s principles at command and unit levels, ensuring uniform adoption across the Service.

Closing the ceremony, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Sambo Adamu reaffirmed Zone ‘B’ officers’ commitment to fully uphold the Reputation Management Guide in all engagements.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has convened a high-level stakeholders’ engagement meeting to address emerging issues affecting the maritime industry and cargo clearance processes and ensure seamless trade facilitation.

Speaking at the forum held on Monday, 11 August 2025, at Apapa Area Command, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, restated that the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), codenamed B’Odogwu, remains a firm and irreversible policy direction.

“On B’Odogwu, there is no going back. We have to forge ahead with what we have started. We know there will be issues, which is why, before now, we met with some authorised banks, and that engagement has yielded positive results”, Adeniyi said.

The CGC stressed the Service’s readiness to maintain open communication with stakeholders. “It’s our intent to always listen to you patiently, so we have brought everyone together today as equal partners in this project,” he added.

The Comptroller General disclosed that some challenges have already been resolved through joint efforts, while work continues on others. He also raised concern over recent attempts to compromise the Service’s digital infrastructure.

“Just over the weekend, there were reports of individuals trying to infiltrate our system. There were several attempts, and the whole idea was to render our system inefficient. I want to remind you that such nefarious acts constitute economic sabotage, which we will not spare. On our part, we will continue to strengthen our system firewalls to prevent future downtimes”, he said.

The engagement concluded with an interactive session, during which stakeholders shared their perspectives and concerns on maritime sector operations, with a collective resolve to work towards efficiency and transparency in cargo clearance.

The Niger State government has vowed to commence sanctioning and prosecuting Boat operators who refused to adhere to the usage of life jackets

The Commissioner of Transport Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta who led a high delegation to Guni in Munya Local Government area to condole with the families of the victims of boat mishap which occurred in Zumba made this known during the visit.

The Commissioner revealed that her Ministry provided one hundred and fifty life jackets to Guni boat operators before the incident and expressed her dismay as to why the passengers who lost their lives in the mishap refused to use them. She appealed to traditional leaders and especially the association of boat operators to ensure its usage as government will not take it lightly with anyone caught disobeying the rule.

In their separate condolence messages on behalf of the Governor, the Commissioner of Lands and Survey Maurice Magaji and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management Mairo Mohammed Mann urged members of the community to accept the irreparable loss as a destiny but stressed the need for the community leaders to ensure proper supervision of passengers wearing life jackets and the removal of undergrowth to prevent future occurrence. The duo assured of Umaru Mohammed Bago’s commitment in saving lives and properties of the people but call for collaboration from all stakeholders in achieving that objective.

The families of the thirteen people who lost their lives in the mishap were availed two hundred thousand naira, 50kg of rice and maize each while fifty additional life jackets were also given to the association of boat operators in the area.