Tag: Security

  • Nigerian Army Skydivers Thrill Crowd with 12,000-Foot Jump During NADCEL 2026

    The Nigerian Army showcased its airborne capabilities with a high-altitude parachute display during the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), as military skydivers jumped from a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft at about 12,000 feet above sea level.

    The display formed part of activities marking the Army’s 163rd anniversary, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    Skydivers demonstrate airborne capability

    Videos shared by the Nigerian Army and circulated on social media captured the soldiers exiting the rear ramp of the moving aircraft before deploying their parachutes and landing safely near the parade ground.

    The demonstration highlighted the Army’s operational readiness and the coordination between the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force during airborne operations.

    Part of NADCEL 2026 activities

    NADCEL 2026 featured military parades, tactical demonstrations, veterans’ recognition, medical outreach programmes and civil-military engagement activities.

    The event was held under the theme, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”

    Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to professionalism and national security during the celebrations, while Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at key events.

    Mixed reactions online

    The skydiving display attracted praise from many Nigerians, who commended the soldiers’ courage, discipline and level of training.

    Others, however, urged the military to focus more on tackling insecurity across the country, saying such demonstrations should be matched with improved security operations.

    No incidents were reported during the parachute exercise, which military authorities described as part of efforts to showcase the Nigerian Army’s evolving capabilities.

  • MURIC Urges South-West Governors to Arm Amotekun, OPC Against Kidnappers

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on governors in the South-West to urgently strengthen and equip local security outfits, including Amotekun and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), to combat growing cases of kidnapping and violent crime across the region.

    The group said immediate action is needed to prevent criminal gangs from becoming more entrenched in communities.

    MURIC Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Friday, MURIC Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, warned that insecurity in the South-West is worsening and requires a stronger local response.

    He urged state governments to treat community-based security groups as frontline responders and provide them with the resources needed to tackle banditry and abductions.

    The call follows recent attacks in the region, including the abduction of dozens of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Call for More Support for Local Security Groups

    Akintola said security outfits such as Amotekun, OPC and other local networks should be empowered to improve their effectiveness.

    “MURIC advises South-West governments to prepare vigilante groups as first responders. Groups like the Oduduwa Peoples Congress (OPC) and Iru Ekun should be empowered in order to halt the advance of bandits,” he stated.

    He also called for increased recruitment into the Amotekun Corps to strengthen its operational capacity.

    “More personnel should be recruited into the Amotekun Corps for effectiveness,” he added.

    Appeal to Yoruba Muslims and Christians

    The organisation urged Yoruba Muslims to draw inspiration from Islamic teachings in confronting criminal elements.

    Quoting passages from the Qur’an, Akintola encouraged communities not to surrender to fear in the face of insecurity.

    “MURIC charges Yoruba Muslims to take inspiration from the Glorious Qur’an on the need to confront bandits,” he said.

    The group extended the appeal to Yoruba Christians, encouraging them to adopt a similar determination against criminal groups operating within the region.

    Demand for Stronger Response

    According to MURIC, kidnappers and bandits often thrive when communities are unable to resist them.

    “We encourage Yoruba Christians to replicate this approach to criminality in the region. Bandits have a field day when we turn and run. But they don’t like confrontation,” the statement said.

    “We must therefore meet their force with force, bullet for bullet, stratagem for stratagem. There must be a balance of terror if we are going to succeed in stopping these hoodlums.”

    Akintola maintained that expanding Amotekun’s manpower and strengthening local security networks would improve intelligence gathering and response efforts in communities facing increasing security threats.

  • State Police Constitutional Amendment Near as Tinubu Government Advances Framework

    The Presidency has announced significant progress toward the establishment of state police, revealing that a constitutional amendment to support the initiative is expected soon.

    Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this on Thursday after a high-level consultative meeting on state police held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    Presidency Reports Progress on State Police

    Speaking to State House Correspondents, Gbajabiamila said discussions on the framework for state police began several months ago following a directive from President Bola Tinubu.

    He explained that while there is widespread support for the initiative, the process requires careful consideration of constitutional and legal issues before implementation.

    “We started deliberations in the last three or four months on how to go about the establishment of state police as directed by Mr President,” he said.

    “Establishing state police is not something that you do with the snap of the fingers. There is a lot involved in terms of constitution and legalities, and thank God we have now gained a lot of traction.”

    Constitutional Amendment Under Consideration

    According to Gbajabiamila, discussions have advanced to the stage of considering the constitutional amendments required to create a legal foundation for state police.

    He noted that the enabling legislation would follow once the constitutional amendment process is completed.

    “Hopefully, the amendment will come shortly, and the details of the amendment will come after that,” he added.

    “Right now, what we are looking at is the constitutional amendment itself, and then the enabling law would follow thereafter.”

    Tinubu to Receive Report

    The Chief of Staff said President Tinubu would receive a detailed report on the outcome of the consultations.

    He stressed that the national conversation has largely shifted from whether state police should exist to how the institution should be structured and regulated.

    Gbajabiamila also reiterated that the initiative is aimed at improving grassroots security, enhancing intelligence gathering and strengthening the ability of state governments to tackle security threats.

    Top Officials Attend Meeting

    The meeting was attended by several senior government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, and Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu.

    The Federal Government has held a series of consultations on the proposal as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges through a decentralised policing structure.

  • Tinubu Commissions Three Naval Vessels, Hails Navy at 70

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to maritime security and national development as the service marked its 70th anniversary in Lagos.

    The President made the remarks at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, where he also commissioned three naval vessels: NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara.

    Tinubu Praises Maritime Security Efforts

    Speaking as the reviewing officer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the Navy’s efforts in tackling piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, maritime smuggling and other crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.

    He noted that operations against crude oil theft and maritime criminality have helped boost oil production, improve government revenue and strengthen investor confidence.

    “Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country,” Tinubu said.

    He also praised the Navy’s Special Boat Service and expressed confidence that the recent deployment of Nigerian Navy Marines would further enhance security operations.

    Navy Described as Key Security Institution

    The President described the Navy as a critical pillar of national and regional security, highlighting its role in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and supporting economic activities.

    According to him, the effective use of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and enforcement operations has helped eliminate piracy in Nigerian waters while reducing crude oil theft and related crimes.

    “Your theme for this milestone event, ‘Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,’ is not merely a slogan but a proven reality,” he said.

    Tinubu also thanked foreign naval delegations and partner countries for participating in the fleet review, describing their presence as a sign of growing international cooperation in maritime security.

    Commitment to Naval Modernisation

    The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Navy through investments in modern platforms, technology, personnel welfare, training and capacity development.

    He congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, officers, ratings, veterans and families of naval personnel for their service to the country.

    Naval Chief Highlights Progress

    Vice Admiral Abbas attributed the Navy’s recent successes to government support, strategic investments and improved collaboration among security agencies.

    He said the acquisition of modern platforms and enhanced surveillance capabilities had strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and improved efforts against piracy, crude oil theft, sea robbery and illegal fishing.

    The naval chief pledged the continued loyalty of officers and ratings to the Constitution and assured Nigerians that the Navy would remain committed to protecting the nation’s maritime domain.

    Top Dignitaries Attend Event

    Among dignitaries present were Babajide Sanwo-Olu, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, and senior military and security officials.

    Chiefs of Naval Staff from several Gulf of Guinea countries, including Ghana, Benin, Liberia and Sierra Leone, also attended the event.

  • Nigerian Army to Recruit 28,000 New Troops as Tinubu Orders Major Security Expansion

    The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops as part of a wide-ranging expansion aimed at strengthening national security amid rising threats across the country.

    The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, during the opening of the First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 in Abuja, where he outlined new strategies to boost military manpower and operational capacity.

    Mass Recruitment Drive Announced

    According to the Army leadership, the recruitment is part of directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address manpower gaps within the armed forces.

    The move is expected to significantly boost “boots on the ground” across various theatres of operation, including insurgency-hit regions in the North-East and banditry-prone North-West.

    The Army said the new personnel will be trained to support intelligence-led operations and rapid response missions across the country.

    New Military Formations Across States

    Alongside the recruitment plan, the Nigerian Army has established several new formations to strengthen security coverage nationwide.

    These include the 15 Brigade in parts of the South-East, new battalions in Kogi and Adamawa States, as well as logistics bases in Ilorin, Kwara State and Gusau, Zamfara State.

    A new training depot has also been set up in Amasiri, Ebonyi State, which will serve as a key centre for training the incoming recruits.

    Security Strategy and Government Push

    Military authorities say the expansion is aimed at improving coordination, enhancing intelligence gathering, and increasing response speed to emerging threats across different regions.

    Lt. Gen. Shuaibu commended President Tinubu for continued support in equipment procurement, welfare improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the Army.

    He also noted that the restructuring has already contributed to improved operational outcomes in some volatile areas.

    Concerns Over Implementation

    While the development has been welcomed by some security analysts and stakeholders, concerns remain over training capacity, troop welfare, and the challenges of integrating such a large number of recruits within a short timeframe.

    There are also ongoing discussions around casualties and long-term sustainability of military operations amid widespread insecurity.

    Further details on recruitment requirements, timelines, and application processes are expected to be released by the Nigerian Army in the coming weeks.

     

  • Tinubu Appoints Ex-Army General Adeyinka Fadewa as Homeland Security Adviser

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of retired Major General Adeyinka Fadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security framework.

    The appointment was confirmed in a statement released on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

    FG Explains Reason for Fadewa’s Appointment

    According to the statement, the appointment was approved based on Fadewa’s “exceptional record of service, strategic expertise, and outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s national security architecture.”

    The Federal Government noted that the retired army officer brings decades of military intelligence and security experience to the role amid growing security concerns across the country.

    The Tinubu homeland security appointment has already attracted attention in latest Nigerian politics news and national security discussions.

    Who Is Major General Adeyinka Fadewa?

    Major General Adeyinka Fadewa is a retired senior officer of the Nigerian Army with more than 30 years of military service experience.

    He is widely known for his background in military intelligence, counter-terrorism operations, and national security strategy.

    Fadewa previously served as Principal General Staff Officer to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) between 2015 and 2021.

    During his time at ONSA, he reportedly played a major role in establishing the Intelligence Fusion Centre (IFC).

    Role in Intelligence Coordination

    The Intelligence Fusion Centre was created to improve intelligence sharing among major security agencies in Nigeria.

    The agencies involved include the Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), Nigeria Police Force, and the Armed Forces.

    Security analysts believe the Tinubu security appointment could further strengthen inter-agency coordination in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insecurity.

    Academic, Research Contributions

    After retiring from military service, Fadewa worked as a Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.

    His research areas reportedly focused on policing, civil-security cooperation, and reforms within Nigeria’s security sector.

    He also authored a monograph titled “Policing and National Security in Nigeria,” which focused on improving collaboration among security agencies.

    The latest presidential appointment in Nigeria has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today amid ongoing conversations about national security reforms.

  • NAF Strikes Terrorist Stronghold in Southern Tumbuns, Eliminates Insurgents

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Hadin Kai, has destroyed terrorist enclaves in the Southern Tumbuns, eliminating several insurgents during a precision airstrike carried out on April 24, 2026, over Ali Sheriffti.

    The location is described as a known terrorist stronghold, with the operation conducted in the evening hours based on credible intelligence.

    Intelligence-Led Operation

    According to a statement by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, surveillance missions tracked insurgents moving through concealed routes before they were traced to hidden structures under dense foliage.

    The Air Force then carried out a precision strike after confirming the targets.

    “The operation achieved its objective, destroying the terrorist hideouts and further degrading their operational capability,” the statement said.

    Military Reaffirms Commitment

    The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the force would continue sustained operations to dismantle terrorist networks.

    He stressed that no safe haven would be allowed for extremist groups, adding that operations would intensify to protect citizens.

    Training Boosts Operational Capacity

    In a related development, the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) graduated officers from specialised training programmes focused on air campaign planning and intelligence operations.

    At the ceremony, Air Vice Marshal PN Amadi urged participants to apply their knowledge in strengthening field operations, describing them as key assets in ongoing missions.

    The Commandant of AWDC, Air Vice Marshal Garba Jibia, said the training was designed to improve coordination, intelligence integration, and mission effectiveness in modern warfare.

    Push for Operational Excellence

    The NAF said the training aligns with efforts to strengthen operational capacity and adapt to evolving security threats through improved planning and intelligence-driven strategies.

    The latest strike underscores ongoing military operations targeting insurgent hideouts across conflict-prone regions.

     

  • Trump Reacts Hours After White House Security Breach, Suspect Apprehended

    U.S. President Donald Trump spoke out hours after a security incident near the White House, calling his role “the hardest job” amid what authorities describe as an apparent assassination attempt.

    Trump said an armed man charged a security checkpoint before being subdued by the United States Secret Service. “A man with multiple weapons charged the checkpoint and was taken down,” he said, calling the suspect a “very sick person” and a “thug.”

    Secret Service Officer Survives

    The president confirmed a Secret Service officer was shot but survived thanks to protective gear. “He was saved by his bulletproof vest and is doing great,” Trump added.

    The incident occurred during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, where gunfire near a screening area caused panic and forced the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests.

    Suspect in Custody

    Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Allen, who was arrested and is expected to face charges in court on Monday. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, said Allen faces multiple charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer.

    “This individual was intent on doing as much harm as possible,” Pirro said, adding that no one else was injured due to the checkpoint.

    Trump Urges Peace Amid Threats

    Speaking at a press briefing, Trump urged Americans to commit to peaceful resolution despite political tensions. “This is not the first time our republic has been attacked by a would-be assassin,” he said.

    On whether he was the intended target, Trump responded cautiously: “I guess.” He described the dangers of political leadership, noting that even the best security cannot fully prevent determined threats.

    Trump said the incident would not affect his policy direction, including tensions involving Iran. Investigators continue to determine the suspect’s motive.

    Ongoing Security Concerns

    The Secret Service confirmed the shooting occurred at a screening area and is under active investigation. The scare adds to a series of threats Trump has faced in recent years, including a near-fatal attack during a 2024 campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

     

  • PSC Fixes April 28 for Police Recruitment Exams, Issues Fresh Instructions to Applicants

    The Police Service Commission has fixed April 28 to 30, 2026, for the written examination of applicants seeking enlistment into the Nigeria Police Force as constables.

    Exam to hold nationwide

    The commission disclosed this in a statement on Thursday through its Head of Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Njoku Kalu.

    According to the statement, the examination will be conducted in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force across selected centres in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Only candidates who successfully completed the physical and credentials screening will be eligible to sit for the test.

    Portal opens for exam slips

    Qualified applicants have been directed to log on to the official recruitment portal from Friday, April 24, 2026, to print their examination invitation cards.

    The slip will contain details of the candidate’s exam date, time, and venue.

    “The Police Service Commission (PSC), in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has scheduled a written test for applicants seeking enlistment as Police Constables from April 28 to 30, 2026,” the statement read.

    Items and dress code announced

    The commission also outlined requirements for the examination, stating that candidates must come along with specific items.

    These include a pen, National Identification Number slip with a clear photograph, and a printed copy of the examination invitation card.

    Applicants are also expected to appear in white shorts, white T-shirt, and white canvas.

    Warning against racketeering

    The PSC reiterated that the recruitment exercise is free and warned applicants against falling victim to fraud.

    It stressed that any form of job racketeering or financial inducement would be treated as a criminal offence.

    Candidates were advised to rely only on official communication channels for updates regarding the exercise.

     

  • Police Foil IED Attack Plot in Ondo, Arrest Six Suspects in Akure

    The Ondo State Police Command has foiled a planned attack involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) targeting government infrastructure in Akure and other parts of the state, arresting six suspects during a swift intelligence-led operation.

    How the operation unfolded

    Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected criminal syndicate.

    Acting on the tip-off, operatives were deployed to a strategic location in Akure, where the suspects were intercepted before carrying out the planned attacks.

    The arrests and recovery were made on April 15, 2026.

    What police recovered

    A search of the scene and the suspects’ residence led to the recovery of several items believed to be linked to the planned operation.

    Recovered exhibits include 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, criminal charms, 17 mobile phones, ₦187,000 cash, two HP laptops, eight slings, a knife, an external hard drive, identity cards, a National Identity Number card, and two motorcycles.

    Police said some of the items are suspected components for assembling explosive devices.

    What investigators found

    Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects were actively involved in assembling IEDs intended for attacks on government facilities.

    Authorities also revealed that the group’s operations may not be limited to Ondo State, raising concerns about a wider network.

    “Early findings show the group was engaged in assembling IEDs for deployment on government infrastructure,” Lawal said.

    Security concerns

    The development highlights ongoing security threats across parts of the country, with authorities continuing to monitor activities of criminal groups operating across state lines.

    The police command said it remains committed to preventing attacks and protecting lives and property.

    Police assurance to residents

    CP Lawal urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.

    He assured that sustained operations are underway to dismantle criminal networks and prevent further threats in the state.