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Nigerian Army will procure new platforms for artillery corps —General Lagbaj

 

The Chief of Army Staff(COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja , said the Army Headquarters will sustain efforts to upgrade existing equipment and procure new platforms for the Artillery Corps to boost its operational capabilities.

The COAS stated this at the closing ceremony of Exercise Vulcan Glow X, 2024 , Firepower Demonstration on Friday at the Nigerian Army Military Training Range, Kachia LGA, Kaduna State.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) the COAS was represented by Maj.-Gen. Sani Muhammad, the Chief of Training, Army.

NAN also reports that the exercise is conducted annually at Artillery formations and units on the employment of Artillery resources in all phases of conventional, hybrid and asymmetric warfare as well as military operations other than war.

The 2024 theme was: “Integration of Emerging Technologies into Training for Enhanced Fire Support to Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint Environment”.

The COAS said, “The exercise provides a good opportunity for the participating formations and units to sharpen their skills, knowledge and expertise in the conduct of Artillery Tactics, Techniques and procedures..

”This is to effectively provide fire support to manoeuvre forces, taking advantage of existing technologies and new innovations.”

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According to him, this year’s theme was carefully selected to ensure that the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery keeps pace with the latest trends in new and emerging technologies in line with the Nigerian Army’s modernisation drive.

Lagbaja applauded the performance of the formations and the foresight of the corps towards integrating emerging technologies into training for enhanced fire support to Nigerian Army operations.

“Indeed, sound fire support is essential for success in the current volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous operational environment.

“The complexity and sophistication of the drivers of insecurity that cut across political, economic, cultural and social spheres of our national life constitute major impediments to the Nigerian military and other law enforcement agencies.

“These issues which are further exacerbated by shifting demographics, globalisation and rapidly changing technologies, among other factors, have clearly reinforced the need for new patterns of trainings, adaptations and contingencies.

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“I am particularly happy that the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery has continued to be innovative and also utilising its new technologies for provision of effective fire support to the Nigerian Army.

“This has evidently manifested in the various theatres of operation across the country, “he said.

Lagbaja explained that the periodic assessments visits to the Nigerian Army School of Artillery and other Artillery formations have provided a better understanding of the state of your integral weapon systems, equipment and other capabilities.

The Army chief congratulated the corps for sustaining remarkable progress through periodic gun repairs and Research and Development initiatives.

He said, “Your tenacity and focus is a reflection of your excellent performance at the Research and Development Exhibition conducted during the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024.

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“This feat of exploring indigenous solutions to address present challenges is commendable.”

Lagbaja enjoined all Corps of the Nigerian Army to devote more attention to improving indigenous research and development programmes and transform them into world-class repairs, maintenance and manufacturing systems.

He commended the Commanderm Corps of Artillery, all gunner officers and soldiers for their efforts in ensuring the successful conduct of Exercise VULCAN GLOW 2024.

 

“Your commitment towards enhancing the proficiency of the Artillery Corps is consistent with the strategic objectives of my command philosophy.

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”This is to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our responsibilities, ” he said.

The COAS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his leadership, strategic guidance and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army.

” I enjoin the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery not to rest on its oars but to keep the shells flying and continue to be the Corps of Proud Professionals,” Lagbaja said.

 

Earlier, the Commander, Corps of Artillery, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, said training was critical to achieving any desired end in military operations.

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Kangye said, “Hence, my desire to develop skilled and competent Artillery personnel and to maintain serviceable platforms and equipment required for the provision of accurate, timely and effective fire support to NA operations.

”This year’s exercise has consolidated on the gains of last year with the participation of NA Space Command through the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle systems for observation and correction of fall of shots.” (NAN)

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Nigerian troops decimate Boko Haram fighters, capture suspected terror collaborator

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Nigerian troops decimate Boko Haram fighters, capture suspected terror collaborator

On February 17, 2025, Nigerian Army troops in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State carried out a daring operation that resulted in the successful neutralisation of 10 Boko Haram members and the seizure of a sizable arsenal of weapons in an attempt to quell insurgency.

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.

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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.

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208 Army officers write Lt. to Capt. promotion examination

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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“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.

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He urged the candidates to take the examination seriously as it was a critical milestone to their progression career in the army.(NAN)

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BREAKING; Nigerian Army General makes historic parachute jump from moving aeroplane

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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.

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“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.

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