Nigerian Army speaks as IPOB call on Igbo youths to shun ongoing recruitment
Nigerian Army speaks as IPOB call on Igbo youths to shun ongoing recruitment
The Nigerian Army has again cautioned the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) against issuing an unpatriotic warning to youths of the South East to shun the ongoing recruitment into the army.
This is contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Nwachukwu described the call as a “brazen yet futile attempt to undermine national unity and cohesion”.
resorted to fear-mongering. vibrant and resilient
According to him, this reckless and misguided statement circulated in the media urges the youth to shun the ongoing Nigerian Army 88 Regular Recruits Intake (RRI) exercise.
“The Nigerian Army finds it necessary to reaffirm that youths from the South East have, time and again, demonstrated unwavering patriotism and commitment by filling their quotas in various military and paramilitary recruitments,”.
He said that they also participated in the civil service of federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“Despite IPOB’s baseless threats, the ongoing registration for the 88 RRI has witnessed an encouraging turnout of applicants from the southeast.
“It is equally important to recall that South Eastern youths proudly filled their slots during the recent commissioning of Direct Regular Cadets at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
“The South East remains a veritable stronghold of loyal and professional personnel in the Nigerian military, who, unlike the unpatriotic and dissident IPOB elements, have pledged their allegiance to the Nigerian state and are excelling in service,” he said.
Nwachukwu said that IPOB, by contrast, was nothing but a band of terrorists and militias responsible for dragging the region into economic ruin.
According to him, their senseless enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders has crippled hitherto blossoming businesses and enterprise, while their involvement in kidnappings and killings has brought misery to the very people they claim to represent.
He said the latest statement from IPOB was nothing short of a veiled threat, designed to intimidate the very youths whose futures they seek to destroy for no reason than for selfish interest.
The Army spokesman said it was crystal clear that IPOB had done nothing but exacerbate the suffering of the South East.
“It is a destructive force, and any youth aligning with their so-called ‘cause’ is doing so at the expense of their future.
He advised the Southeastern youths to disregard IPOB’s antics and pursue their noble ambitions within the military, a profession that valued merit above tribe, creed, or religion.
“The gallant efforts of the Nigerian military in restoring peace to the region and curbing the menace of IPOB’s terrorist factions are well documented.
“The recent successes in defeating these criminals stand as a testament to the strength and resolve of the South Easterners who wear the uniform with pride.
“IPOB’s latest propaganda is nothing other than the wailing of a failing group, in desperation to remain relevant, even as it watches its grip slip away.
“Youths of the South East and ndigbo in general must remain resolute. Let no one rob you of your dreams and rights.
“IPOB’s propaganda is indicative of the last kicks of a dying man attempting to sabotage your future and should be met with contempt.
“They have done nothing for the region but cause pain, economic devastation, and palpable fear.
“The Nigerian Army stands as a beacon of hope, offering avenues for self-advancement, honour, and service to the nation,” he added. (NAN)
The troops’ overwhelming weaponry overpowered the terrorists during the attack, which targeted a well-known Boko Haram stronghold in the Iza woodland.
Ten terrorists were killed during the operation, while the others were left in ruins. Two AK-47 weapons and two loaded magazines were found in the aftermath.
In addition, a significant terror collaborator—known for extorting ransom on behalf of various terrorist and bandit groups—was captured.
Elsewhere, in a separate operation in Tunfa village, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, troops carried out a successful ambush based on credible intelligence. They neutralized a bandit and apprehended a high-value suspect tied to the notorious Sani Black terrorist faction.
The captured suspect provided vital information that led to a raid on Tunga village, a bandit hideout dealing in stolen cattle. Several bandits were arrested, and all bandit infrastructure in the area was dismantled.
Furthermore, troops in Sokoto State acted on human intelligence to arrest a suspected terrorist at Illela Market in Illela Local Government Area.
Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, commended the troops for their exceptional efforts and operational precision.
He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s firm resolve to eliminate terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminal activity across the nation. He also urged citizens to continue providing credible intelligence to bolster the military’s ongoing efforts.
Military
208 Army officers write Lt. to Capt. promotion examination
208 Army officers write Lt. to Capt. promotion examination
The Nigerian Army on Sunday commenced the 2025 Lt. to Capt. practical promotion examination, with 208 candidates participating in Kaduna.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the week-long examination is being conducted by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Nigerian Army.
Addressing the candidates, the President of the Examination Board, Commander, TRADOC , Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe,. charged them to focus fully on the important task ahead.
He said, “The examination aims to evaluate the officers’ proficiency in various aspects of the military profession, including command ability, tactical employment, and physical fitness.”
Aligbe also emphasised the importance of the examination, stating that it was a critical milestone in the officers’ careers.
He urged the candidates to remain focused, intuitive, and confident in their abilities, assuring them that the examination board was committed to transparency and fairness.
Aligbe disclosed that subjects to cover during the examination include tactics and low intensity conflicts, map reading, communication and skills at arms proficiency test.
Others are driving and maintenance, administration in the field, French language and physical fitness test.
Aligbe said: “Candidates are required to score a minimum of 50 per cent in all the subjects, with a minimum aggregate score of 60 per cent overall score to pass the examination.
“Let me remind you that Army Headquarters policy allows a maximum of three attempts for any candidate to pass this examination.
“I urge you all, particularly the candidates on their second attempt, to put in your best in order to obtain the minimum marks required to earn a pass.
“Be confident in yourselves and do not be discouraged.
“Just be focused and I assure you that if you give your best, you will pass the examination.”
According to the commander, to ensure the integrity of the examination, the Nigerian Army has put in place strict security measures, including video coverage and invigilation by experienced officers.
“The top-performing officers will be rewarded with Certificates of Excellence and Letters of Commendation, as well as cash gifts.
“We shall, in the conduct of this examination, be guided by good conscience and the extant provisions of the NA Charter r Promotion Examinations (Revised) September 2022, “he said.
Aligbe added that there was no need to be pessimistic or contemplate failure, adding, “this is if you have prepared well for this examination.
“In fact, our desire is to see all of you pass this examination.
“On our part, I assure you of our determination to carry out a meticulous and painstaking assessment of your performances and accurate recording of your marks.
“We shall be firm, but fair to all of you and will not tolerate any actions that would jeopardize the integrity of the process.”
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding ,(GOC), 1 Division Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, urged the candidates to put in their best in passing the examination with all sense of integrity.
Saraso appreciated the Chief of Army Staff , Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for approving the division to host the promotion.
He urged the candidates to take the examination seriously as it was a critical milestone to their progression career in the army.(NAN)
Military
BREAKING; Nigerian Army General makes historic parachute jump from moving aeroplane
BREAKING; Nigerian Army General makes historic parachute jump from moving aeroplane
During airborne training in Kaduna State, Nigerian Army Brig. Gen. Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu made history on Wednesday by becoming the second person in the Nigerian Army to ever execute such a daring jump from a moving plane.
He accomplished this feat by making a spectacular leap from a moving aircraft and landing with the help of a parachute.
“The General has in a remarkable display of leadership and bravery, achieved a historic airborne feat, matching the accomplishment of former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General KTJ Minimah.
”As the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Lt Gen Minimah had been the most senior Nigerian Army officer to execute a parachute jump.
“Brig Gen Aliyu’s jump was more than just a personal achievement; it demonstrated his commitment to the future of the Nigerian Army. He was not alone in this feat, as cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) joined him, marking their first parachute jump and the beginning of their careers as officers in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“By leading from the front, Brig Gen Aliyu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s enduring ethos: “No guts, no glory.” This moment was not just an airborne jump, but a lesson in leadership. For the cadets who jumped alongside him, this experience will be unforgettable, instilling confidence, courage, and a deep understanding of true leadership.
“Brig Gen Aliyu’s action embodies the spirit of the Nigerian Army, where leaders do not just issue orders, but share in the challenges and triumphs of those they lead. As the Nigerian Army continues to shape its future leaders, Brig Gen AS Aliyu’s historic jump will serve as a lasting inspiration, reminding them that leadership is about stepping forward, into the unknown, with those who will one day take up the mantle, the Nigerian Army told journalists.