Author Archives: BNCC NEWS

MNJTF CONDUCTS MEDAL PARADE FOR OUTGOING MILITARY STAFF OFFICERS

The Headquarters, Multinational Joint Taskforce (HQ MNJTF), in Camp Farcha, N`Djamena Republic of Chad on Wednesday 27 October 2021 came agog with a colourful medal parade ceremony for the outgoing Military Staff Officer (MSOs), who have completed one year tour of duty.

A total of Twenty-Four (24) MSOs from Republics of Benin, Nigeria and Chad were decorated with MNJTF medals and the Operation YANCIN TAFKI Medal in recognition of their meritorious service for peace and security in the Lake Chad region.
Thus was contained in a statement signed by the chief military public information HQ MNJTF N’Djamena Chad and made available to the press on 27 October 2021

The Force Commander (FC), MNJTF, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim noted that Award of medals remains one of the most cherished and sacred traditions of the military and military medals are awarded in recognition of bravery or gallantry, heroism, or meritorious service.

Speaking further, General Ibrahim said MNJTF was re-operationalized in 2015 to tackle the insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin region and restore normalcy to the affected communities. Adding that, since its inception the Force conducts operations and undertakes other non-kinetic activities towards the achievement of its mandate.
He pointed out that, these operations and activities, which are coordinated at HQ MNJTF by MSOs, have yielded many successes including the liberation of communities previously held by the terrorists, rescue of thousands of captives, neutralization of countless insurgents and resettlement of thousands of refugees and internally displaced persons back to Banki town, Baga and Doron Baga in Nigeria; Amchide and Kolofata in Cameroon; and Baroua in Niger Republic among others.
Giving account of the professional handling of ongoing mass surrender of Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents by MNJTF troops, the FC said, there is no record of mistreatment of anyone of them. He further confirmed the killing of key BHT/ISWAP leaders; Abu Musab Al-Barnawi and Mallam Bako, with assurance that the Force surely go after any successor as well as the terrorists` groups as a whole. General Ibrahim therefore called on the remaining BHT/ISWAP criminals to embrace the path of peace, by dropping their arms and surrender to security forces. He thanked the brotherly Republic of Chad for being a good host to the HQ MNJTF.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), the Chadian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Abakar Abdelkarim Daoud, represented by Major General G Mandjita congratulated the recipients for the excellent performance to merit the award of MNJTF Medal.
He commended the FC for the great work of ensuring return of normalcy in the region, thus creating necessary conditions for relocation and resettlement of affected communities. He assured the FC of continued safety ,security and a conducive working environment for the MNJTF.
Among the dignitaries that attended the ceremony are the Ambassadors of Niger and Cameroon, while Nigerian Ambassador was represented,the representative of Honourable Minister of Defence, the Chadian Chief of Air Staff, Representative of Head of Mission MNJTF, Resident Special Representatives of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), European Union (EU) and African Union (AU). Others are top brass of Chadian military authorities, Defence Attaches and Advisers from Niger, Cameroon, Nigeria, United States, the representatives of Operations Barkhane, Centre for Coordination and Liaison (CCL) and G5 Sahel Joint Taskforce.

The high points of the event are the decoration of outgoing MSOs with MNJTF Medals, presentations of Souvenir and Medal to SGOH, presentation of plaques to MSOs, group photograph and refreshment. The event was hitch free.

Buratai Commends President Buhari Development Strides…

Calls For Synergy Among Stakeholders…

Immediate past chief of army staff, now Nigeria’s ambassador to Benin republic Amb Tukur Buratai has emphasized the need for holistic synergy between stakeholders in other to consolidate on the achievements of the current administration.

Gen Buratai made the remarks at the convocation lecture on Friday at the Moddibo Adama University Yola.

The retired military chief and now diplomat said there was every need to focus on ideological aspects of addressing our nation’s challenges”

” We must address the ideological, economic, social and political factors that influence development, he stressed that the opportunity given to him by president Buhari to serve in the diplomatic capacity has sharpened his views more on how best to move forward” he maintained.

“Central to this conversation is that security and development is a collective responsibility of every nigerian so as to compliment military Interventions” all over the world, development is a joint venture between the stakeholders. Every one of us is a stakeholder in the development of our dear nation.

He further expressed desire to use his wealth of knowledge to deepen peace and stability efforts of the Nigerian government.

Reacting to misreading reports in some online platforms, Conference Of harmonised Civil Society Organisations (CHCSON) said Amb Buratai desire to always lend his wealth of experience for National growth is highly commendable and urged other stakeholders to sustain the call for national growth.

CHADIAN CHIEF OF AIR STAFF ASSURES MNJTF OF CONTINOUS SUPPORT….as Air assets remain critical to any military operation

The FC MNJTF, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim visited the Chadian Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Brigadier General Amine Ahmed Idriss on 21 October 2021 at the HQ Chadian Airforce N`Djamena Chad. The visit is part of ongoing familiarization tour to some strategic senior military commanders and other security chiefs in Lake Chad region.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Chief of military Public Information HQ MNJTF, N`Djamena Colonel Muhammad Dole Chad and available to the press on 21 October 2021

The FC, appreciated the CAS, for the warm reception and continuous support in the ongoing Operation Yanchi Tafki.
The FC said, the visit is aimed at exploring and seeking ways for stronger support for the MNJTF activities, adding that air assets remain critical for any military operations. General Ibrahim was emphatic on the need for team work and seamless synergy of efforts between the MNJTF and national forces, so as to take advantage of the in-fight and surrendering among the insurgents. He also expressed condolences for the demise of late President, Marshal Idriss Deby Itno, whom he described as a Pillar for peace and security in the region.
In his responce, General Amine Idriss assured the FC of his continuous support, noting that previous Force Commanders have established good relationship with the Chadian Airforce, hence the imperative of team work with MNJTF. Despite the national commitments, MNJTF will continue to remain a priority to the Chadian Airforce, he said. He equally encouraged FC to regularly reach out to other military and security chiefs to further solidify the good military brotherhood.
Accompanied the FC to the visit were the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Abdou Harouna Assoumane and some Chiefs of cells at HQ MNJTF

REMAINS OF BABA MUSA S. GWABIN, FATHER OF THEATRE COMMANDER, Operation HADIN KAI Laid To Rest In Kaduna

The remains of the  late Baba Musa  Sukwai Gwabin, father of Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI Major General Christopher Musa Gwabin have been laid to rest in Kaduna. Late Baba Musa S.Gwabin died at the age of 82, from 1939 to October 6th 2021.
At the funeral service held at the ECWA Goodnews Narayi High Cost Kaduna, several dignitaries were on ground to pay their final respect.
Officiating Ministers were, Rev Mark Ayuba, Rev. Joshua Malam, and host of other ministers, with the ceremony coordinated by Elder Bright Andrew.
Testimonies were read by family, friends, ECWA Church Sokoto and Narayi Bayan Dutse & other churches.
Dignitaries that graced the occasion include a powerful delegation from Borno State Government, led by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Hon Umar Usman Kadafur. The Chief of Army Staff was also represented by the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Victor Ezegwu.Other members from the Borno State delegation include, Head of Service, Commissioners, State Assembly Members, Special assistants to the Governor, Politicians and other  State government officials. Also present were serving and retired Generals of the Armed Forces.
It was noted that he lived a joyful life, surrounded by his late wife, children, church and service to humanity.
His integrity, love and humility earned him respect in everywhere he lived.
Final internment was held at the Barnawa Cemetery, Kaduna.

Wake Keep For Late Father Of Commander Operation HADIN KAI Attracts Dignitaries To Kaduna

The Wake Keep for Late Baba Musa S. Gwabin, father of Theatre Commander Operation HADIN KAI, North East, Major General Christopher Musa who died on  October 6, 2021, at the age of 82 years has been held in Kaduna.
Mammoth crowd, family members, friends and other dignitaries thronged his residence at Moshoeshoe close, Narayi high cost kaduna.     In his remarks, Reverend Mark Ayuba of ECWA Church Bayan Dutse Narayi where Baba and Mama used to worship welcomed all to the gathering.
He said Mama and Baba are all with the Lord, explaining that Mama passed away three years ago and Baba this time around.
“We thank God that before Baba left the world, he was prayerful. We are confident that he is with our saviour,” he prayed. According to him, the life of the late father is worthy of celebration.
In a tribute, Elder James Daniel said that everyone God created is for a purpose.”God takes one when  your time is off, whether you achieve your purpose or not.
“Baba has lived for so many years. Everyone will be praying to live that long. It doesn’t matter how long you live, but how well you lived,” he said. 
Maj Dangana from 1 Division Nigerian Army also prayed for the deceased and consoled the family.
In his remarks,  the Theatre Commander Operation HADIN KAI, Major Gen Christopher Musa said they were overwhelmed by the show of love from their family, friends and associates.
“We are grateful to everyone that came around despite short notice. The Governor of Borno State, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur and all others who came from far and near,” he said.
Yohana Bobai in a vote of thanks on behalf of the family, thanked all who were present.
“We appreciate each and every one of you. We thank God for your coming and  I am sure if Baba were to wake up and see all, he will say, “Lord I thank you”.
He also invited the general public to the final internment billed for Thursday 14, October 2021.
As part of activities at the wake keep, songs were administered by Women fellowship of Ecwa Church Bayan Dutse Narayi and 1 Division Christian fellowship.

APC governors celebrate Inuwa Yahaya @60, call him ‘shining light’

The governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the platform of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has described the governor of Gombe state Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, as a ‘shining light’ even as he marks his 60th birthday.

In a statement signed Saturday in Abuja by the chairman of the forum and Kebbi state governor, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, commended governor Yahaya’s contributions to the development of Nigeria.

The APC governors said it join the people of Gombe state, and other well-meaning Nigerians to celebrate Yahaya’s special occasion.

“We wish to acknowledge and commend your leadership, vision and commitment to a united and prosperous Nigeria. Guided by our party, APC, you have been a consistent and selfless contributor to progressive initiatives towards developing our states and Nigeria. We also recognise your insightful and resolute inputs to the processes of managing governance in Gombe State.

As Governor of Gombe State, through all the development initiatives being implemented by your APC-led government, you are a shining light of our politics!

“As we rejoice with HE Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, we also reaffirmed our collective commitment to implement programmes that would strengthen the capacities of our progressive states to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, reduce inequality and diminish poverty in Nigeria.

“Once again, congratulations and Happy Birthday to HE. Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya!”

Itel Debuts itel S17, Cinema TV Projector, and Other User-Friendly Products

Itel, one of the world’s largest and most affordable smartphone, television, and accessories brands, has announced the release of the itel S17- a new addition to its flagship S series- along with several other user-friendly products. The release, announced at a colourful online launch held on the 8th of October 2021, is in line with itel’s commitment to continue to make life better through cutting-edge technology, cost-cutting innovation, and unrivalled lifestyle and entertainment

itel S17 Unveiling by Olamide ‘Baddo’ Adedeji at the itel Online Launch Event
The exclusive launch featured itel brand ambassador and one of Nigeria’s biggest pop stars Olamide, veteran actor Mercy Johnson and TV host Stephanie Coker, who took turns to extol the many amazing features that the new products offer to Nigerians, especially at such unbelievably affordable prices.

The itel team held nothing back in a launch that restated their exalted place within the smartphone and gadget industry in Africa and beyond.

Capture Your Smile with itel S17
The itel S17 is a huge statement by itel; one that signals a shift from the norm; launching the user into a realm of superb artificial intelligence. It is a wholesome package offering limitless possibilities for talk, chat, work, and play. This big battery and selfie smartphone is built to taste, allowing you to customize and enjoy every bit of the experience. It comes with new and interesting features to make it worth your while.

Itel S17 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
The new itel S17 smartphone helps you capture the good moments with the Smile Selfie feature, a first-of-its-kind AI-powered innovation. You no longer must struggle to hold a smile when you take a picture only to find out you lost it at the last moment. With the itel S17 Smile Selfie, the 8MP front camera automatically takes a photo when your best smile is detected. No buttons pushed, no hassles.

itel S17 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
Talking about photos, the portrait mode gives an artistic effect that feels like a close-up in a movie. For unbeatable clarity and enhanced beauty, background details are blurred to help your features pop and stand out. And if you’re a social media star, the 10-second short video mode helps you record your best moments in 10 crisp seconds and share them on social media with just a single click.

itel S17 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
itel is also offering more power and more fun time with the 5000mAh big battery. This is an increase of 1000mAh on the previous generation. With the big battery, you get as much as 10 hours of movies, TV shows, games, and social media interactions; 70 hours of music; 30 hours of chat; or 7 hours of Selfie. That is all the fun you want, all day long.

itel S17 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
This HD+ Large Screen for unique visual enjoyment is another major talking point of the itel S17. The 6.6 HD+ waterproof full screen comes with an elegant, optimized frame proportion. It is an improved 90% screen ratio that increases vision due to its enhanced display space. This perfectly complements the 8.85 mm super slim body with the iconic uniform aesthetic design on the back. It is easy to notice the three independent rear cameras which ensure more light for better photography.

Get More For Less With Itel Products 

itel Cinema Projector TV Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
Other products announced during the launch include the Cinema TV H1 Pro. It is a DTV cinematic projector that offers as much as 100-inch large screen. The device, which supports i-Cast, comes with 2×5 width double speakers, a 1.5m stand and 100-inch screen cloth.

Itel Spirit 1 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
itel has also launched the new Spirit 1; a 15.6-inch FHD Screen, Intel core 13, Windows 11 laptop built for work and play.

Itel Smart Watch 1 Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
What’s more, the Smart Watch 1 has been added to the itel family. If you’ve ever wanted a wristwatch you can use for fashion, sports, and everything in-between, this HD-colour smart piece is fully equipped to serve your needs. Asides its cute band, colourful screen and narrow metal bezel design, the watch features blood oxygen monitor, heart rate monitor, music and camera control, a personalised menu and 7 sports modes.

Itel Wireless Neckband Unveiling at the itel Online Launch Event
Finally, a wireless neckband like no other. The N53F earpiece is a set of magnetic earbuds, ergonomically designed to sit around your neck comfortably and complement your style. Equipped with a 10.4mm bass boost driver, the earbuds can withstand harsh weather conditions like rainfall. It also has the iPX5 rating for water resistance, so you’ve got nothing to worry about.

You too can enjoy better life like Olamide. Get on the good side by visiting the itel Home Store on 9, Oba Ogunji Road, Agege Pen Cinema, Lagos or any itel store or partner outlet near you from 9th of October 2021 for any of these products.

Theater Commander Calls for Improve Capacities of Personnel

Theater Commander Operation Hadin Kai, North East, Maj. Gen Christopher Musa has called for improve capacities of Junior officers and soldiers, urging participants of Course 5, Nigerian Army War College to develop realistic strategies that will aid the counter-terrorism operation in the country. 

General Musa made the call in Maiduguri when he received the participants of Course 5, Army War College at the Headquarters, Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, Borno State. 

The Commander urged the participants to dig deep while coming up with modules as the war on insurgency is changing.

He commended the Army War College of Nigeria for its initiatives and contributions to operational plans and Strategies.

He said with the successes recorded and efforts being put in place as well as other operational plans and strategies, Insurgency will soon come to an end in the country.

The Theatre Commander who expressed delight for the visit, equally noted that “the participants would see for themselves what they have been taught theoretically in the college in order for them to have opportunity to see the practicality at the warfront.

He also advised them to avail themselves of the privileges available at their disposal by engaging practically in various army operations while pointing out that their different experiences will help them contribute to their roles, capabilities and quality leadership.

The Commandant of the Army War College, Major General Solomon Odounwa said the participants were visiting the theatre to seek how they can expand studies on military operation in the north-east.

He said it was also an opportunity to contribute to what the theatre is doing and to lay foundation for the young officers who will be the military commanders in the nearest future.

He said the college had been monitoring the development at the theatre and the successes recorded despite the challenges including difficult terrain.

“We are here to see how we can contribute to what you are doing and to lay foundation for our young officers who will be our military commanders in the nearest future,” disclosed the commandant. 

The Director of the college, Brig Gen Alkali said the institute was established to train educational leaders of the Nigerian Army with various modules including military contribution to existing operations, peace building among others.

He said the college has a mandate to produce well trained military officers and the Course 5 participants include 30 military officers, four allied forces from Niger, Togo, DR Congo and Liberia.

Theater Commander Calls for Improve Capacities of Personnel

Theater Commander Operation Hadin Kai, North East, Maj. Gen Christopher Musa has called for improve capacities of Junior officers and soldiers, urging participants of Course 5, Nigerian Army War College to develop realistic strategies that will aid the counter-terrorism operation in the country. 

General Musa made the call in Maiduguri when he received the participants of Course 5, Army War College at the Headquarters, Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, Borno State. 

The Commander urged the participants to dig deep while coming up with modules as the war on insurgency is changing.

He commended the Army War College of Nigeria for its initiatives and contributions to operational plans and Strategies.

He said with the successes recorded and efforts being put in place as well as other operational plans and strategies, Insurgency will soon come to an end in the country.

The Theatre Commander who expressed delight for the visit, equally noted that “the participants would see for themselves what they have been taught theoretically in the college in order for them to have opportunity to see the practicality at the warfront.

He also advised them to avail themselves of the privileges available at their disposal by engaging practically in various army operations while pointing out that their different experiences will help them contribute to their roles, capabilities and quality leadership.

The Commandant of the Army War College, Major General Solomon Odounwa said the participants were visiting the theatre to seek how they can expand studies on military operation in the north-east.

He said it was also an opportunity to contribute to what the theatre is doing and to lay foundation for the young officers who will be the military commanders in the nearest future.

He said the college had been monitoring the development at the theatre and the successes recorded despite the challenges including difficult terrain.

“We are here to see how we can contribute to what you are doing and to lay foundation for our young officers who will be our military commanders in the nearest future,” disclosed the commandant. 

The Director of the college, Brig Gen Alkali said the institute was established to train educational leaders of the Nigerian Army with various modules including military contribution to existing operations, peace building among others.

He said the college has a mandate to produce well trained military officers and the Course 5 participants include 30 military officers, four allied forces from Niger, Togo, DR Congo and Liberia.

Great Nations Never Succumb to Momentary Challenges- Yemi 

Vice president Prof Yemi Osinbajo SAN says since Federal Government came on board  have had it share of social upheavals, political instability, religious intolerance and economic hardship.
In his address on Thursday  as a guest of honor  at the 31  Convocation ceremony  31ST  of 68 Regular Course  and Post Graduate, Yemi said  these are challenges which most nations face. 
Represented by Defence Minister, Major General Bashir Salihi Magashi retired, Yemi  explained that as the foremost military University and a citadel of learning in sub-saharan Africa, government shall spare no effort to sustain the continuing development of the Academy.
According to him “We have invested vital resources in confronting our national problems, and we will continue to do so across all facets of our economy and polity, adding that as part of our commitment to this great institution, we shall sustain the tempo of funding and infrastructural facilities to ensure a conducive learning environment.”The Vice president continue, great nations never succumb to momentary challenges, neither do they as a nation, Nigeria has always defied the odd,  pointing out that rather than falter or lose hope, we should draw inspiration from the brighter chapters of our history and in a determined spirit engage the reservoir of our resourcefulness. He further explained that National development is not attained only by a select group professionals but by all with everyone contributing his/her quota.He said  creativity, sense of sacrifice and national commitment which we as a people can accumulate only from institutions like the Nigerian Defence Academy. Since I became VicePresident of this great country, I have had opportunities to come to this institution and in all my periods of visitation. “I  have always been marveled by the uncommon enthusiasm of the cadets, military instructors, staff, and postgraduate students,  adding this is so because what I have always seen in this institution by way of academic activities, research and association with the larger society has always captivated my interest. While commenting on the Nigerian Defence Academy, Yemi said  “ We appreciate the Academy as the foremost military university and a citadel of learning in sub-Saharan Africa,  adding  we shall spare no effort or resources to sustain the continuing development of this Academy.”Yemi also  draw the attention of the management of the Academy that despite the integrated knowledge provided to cadets, pointing out that military training must not be watered down to unnecessary intellectualism or abstract theorizing that would undermine military prowess and professionalism.According to him, In this age of revolution in military affairs, cadets should be provided a balanced diet of learning- centered, technology-driven and dynamic knowledge and skills set that will prepare them for military leadership, regimentation and combat readiness.He maintained that  in this direction, those modern disciplines that bother on sound military thought and philosophy should be given priority with subjects like modern weaponry and engineering, intelligence, logistics and asymmetric warfare relevant to our contemporary needs rather than curriculum requiring argumentative judgments and mere regurgitation of facts, hypotheses and theories.On the  convicting cadets and postgraduate students,  Yemi  charged them to should know that knowledge is power, adding that  it is meaningful to you when you develop the corresponding skills set and competences to the application of its principles to life situations and appeals.According to him, “ I have no doubt that you are equal to the task because the Nigerian Defence Academy has given you all you require in terms of knowledge, character and networking to be valuable citizens of our dear country.”Earlier, Commandant of the Academy Major General Ibrahim Manu Yusuf said over the years, the Academy has made its mark as the foremost military university in sub-saharan Africa through its contribution to human development in military and academic circles.The Commandant urged the graduands to be good ambassadors of NDA where ever they find themselves.A total of two thousand Eight hundred and five graduands comprising two hundred and forty-nine cadets and two thousand, five hundred and fifty-six post graduate students participated in the convocation ceremony.Highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to deserving cadets, post-graduate students as well as honourary doctorate degrees on Alhaji Aliko Dangote and post humous doctorate degrees on late Alhaji Ahmed Joda and former chief of Army Staff, late Lt General Ibrahim Attahiru.