Army Intensifies Nationwide Offensive, Rescues Kidnap Victims, Arrests Suspects

By Musa Garba, Kaduna

The Nigerian Army has stepped up its nationwide operations, recording a string of gains including the rescue of abducted victims, arrest of suspected terrorists, and disruption of criminal activities across several regions of the country.

Details of the latest operations were tcontained in a situation repor released on Saturday in Abuja.

According to the report, troops deployed under Operation Savannah Shield successfully rescued kidnapped victims in Kwara State after confronting suspected abductors in a forest. The criminals reportedly fled under pressure, abandoning their captives.

In Kogi State, soldiers operating under Operation Mesa apprehended two suspects during raids on criminal hideouts in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area. The operation, carried out in Kakuma and Ijumu communities, also led to the recovery of four motorcycles and two chainsaws.

Military authorities said the suspects, along with the seized items, had been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

Similarly, troops at the Forward Operating Base in Afaka, located in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, arrested another suspect believed to have links to terrorist groups. Preliminary interrogation indicated that the individual fled a camp following a violent internal dispute between rival commanders identified as Dogo Gide and Kabiru along the Kachia–Kagarko–Chikun corridor.

In the North-east, troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on insurgent groups, including the detection and safe neutralisation of improvised explosive devices. Ongoing offensives under Operation Desert Sanity V were also said to be yielding results.

Operations in the North-west saw troops under Operation Fansan Yamma repel attacks in Sokoto and Zamfara States, forcing armed groups to retreat, while search-and-rescue efforts for kidnapped victims continued.

In Lagos, personnel of Operation Mesa arrested 15 individuals in the Ibeju-Lekki area over alleged involvement in illegal oil siphoning. Items recovered during the operation included vehicles, a speedboat engine, pumping equipment and hoses.

Further operations in the South-east involved troops of Operation Udo Ka working alongside police and local vigilantes. The team reportedly encountered multiple improvised explosive devices during a patrol in Anambra State and engaged armed elements, who later retreated.

In the South-south, the army said it intensified efforts against criminal networks, targeting illegal bunkering and drug trafficking, leading to additional arrests.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its resolve to sustain ongoing offensives aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and safeguarding lives and property across the country.

Tears and Tributes as Nigeria Buries Fallen Soldiers in Maiduguri

By Auwal Ahmad Umar 

Nigeria on Wednesday paid its last respects to slain military personnel, including Brigadier General Omo Braimah and Captain Ismail, in a solemn ceremony held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The emotionally charged burial drew grieving families, military officers and top government officials, all united in honour of soldiers who died in active service while defending the country’s territorial integrity.

Among the dignitaries present were Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, along with senior officers of the Armed Forces.

The fallen troops were laid to rest with full military honours, including ceremonial processions and the reading of citations recounting their service records and acts of bravery. The atmosphere was marked by silence, tears, and deep reflection as colleagues and loved ones said goodbye.

In separate tributes, officials described the deceased as gallant patriots who stood firm in the face of danger.

“Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. They paid the ultimate price so that others may live in peace,” one of the senior military officials said during the ceremony.

Governor Zulum noted that the courage of the fallen soldiers reflects the resilience of Nigeria’s armed forces in confronting security challenges, particularly in the north-east.

Defence Minister Musa also commended the troops’ constant dedication to duty, saying their legacy would continue to motivate both serving personnel and future generations.

Prayers were offered for the repose of their souls, while family members struggled to contain their grief as final rites were performed.

The burial once again highlighted the heavy toll of Nigeria’s ongoing security operations, reminding citizens of the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces.

Even in death, the fallen soldiers were honoured not just for how they died but also for how they lived  in service, courage and devotion to the nation.

40 Years On: NDA 27th Course Veterans Celebrate Legacy, Renew Bonds in Abuja

By Musa Garba, Kaduna

Former members of the 27 Short Service Combatant Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) on Saturday gathered in Abuja to commemorate four decades since their commissioning, using the occasion to reinforce unity, promote wellbeing, and strengthen lifelong friendships.

Speaking at the reunion, President of the alumni association, retired Major General Okechukwu Ugo, expressed appreciation for the privilege of witnessing the milestone, describing it as a moment of reflection and gratitude.

He recalled that the group’s previous reunion took place in 2022 at the National Defence College, noting that this year’s event offered another opportunity for members to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate years of dedicated service to the country.

Ugo paid homage to colleagues who have passed on and extended prayers for those dealing with health challenges, urging members to continue supporting one another in all circumstances.

He explained that the anniversary programme featured a range of activities, including medical awareness sessions, leadership elections, and a gala evening designed to foster relaxation and camaraderie.

Highlighting the importance of health education, Ugo urged participants to take the sessions seriously, particularly those focused on ageing and wellness, stressing that continuous learning is key to maintaining good health in later years.

In a show of compassion, spouses of the alumni visited an orphanage in Kuje, where they provided assistance to vulnerable children. Ugo described the outreach as a reflection of the group’s enduring commitment to humanitarian values and social responsibility.

On leadership succession, he noted that the current executives would hand over to a new team, expressing confidence that the transition process would be transparent and credible.

He added that the gala night would serve as a fitting conclusion to the celebrations, giving members the chance to unwind and honour the shared journey that has kept them united over the years.

The event also featured a health lecture themed “Geriatric Health: Mind and Body,” delivered by Professor Ehiz Odigie-Okpataku and Dr. Okiobeya Davidson, who provided insights on maintaining physical and mental wellbeing in later life.