Major General Emekah says improved troop welfare remains top priority under Chief of Army Staff Shaibu’s command philosophy

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, has commissioned newly renovated accommodation and a Heroes Memorial Stand at the Headquarters of the 29 Battalion in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The event, which held on 8 June 2026, saw the Army reaffirm its commitment to the welfare and morale of personnel serving in the South-South region.

During the commissioning ceremony, Major General Emekah stressed that sound administration and improved living conditions are central to the command philosophy of Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. He stated that providing decent accommodation is critical for boosting troops’ morale and ensuring operational effectiveness as they confront contemporary security challenges in the Niger Delta and beyond.

The GOC commended Lieutenant Colonel Irinam Otogo, Commanding Officer of the 29 Battalion, for demonstrating leadership by executing projects targeted at raising living standards for soldiers under his command. According to Emekah, such investments are necessary to maintain a highly motivated and combat-ready force. “Welfare of our troops is not just a routine; it is an ongoing priority that ensures our men remain focused and ready to defend national interests,” he said at the event.

The ceremony also featured the unveiling of a Heroes Memorial Stand in honour of officers and men who lost their lives in service. While the Nigerian Army did not disclose casualty figures during the event, Emekah emphasised that remembering fallen heroes is vital for building esprit de corps among serving personnel.

As at press time, representatives from civil society groups were not present at the occasion and opposition parties have yet to comment on the development. The Army has indicated that further barracks renovation projects are planned across key formations in Rivers and neighbouring states under ongoing welfare initiatives led by Army headquarters.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/army-reaffirms-commitment-to-troops-welfare-honours-fallen-heroes/

Military confirms high-profile defections as security forces intensify operations against insurgents in North-East region

A senior bomb expert and top commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have surrendered to Nigerian military authorities in Borno State, officials announced on Thursday. The development comes as part of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts by the armed forces in the North-East.

According to security sources, the ISWAP operatives turned themselves in to troops stationed in Borno, where military operations have been intensified against insurgent hideouts. The surrender reportedly took place earlier this week, though the army did not disclose specific details about the identities of the former militants or the exact location for operational reasons.

The surrender of a bomb specialist and a senior field commander is considered significant by security analysts, given ISWAP’s reputation for deploying improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and carrying out coordinated attacks on both civilian and military targets. The North-East, particularly Borno State, has been at the centre of the over a decade-long insurgency that has displaced millions and caused thousands of deaths.

Military officials welcomed the development as evidence that sustained pressure on ISWAP camps is yielding results. “Our intensified operations are forcing many terrorists to reconsider their position,” an official said, urging other insurgents to lay down their arms. There was no immediate response from ISWAP or independent verification from local authorities.

Security experts say such high-profile defections could weaken ISWAP’s operational capacity in the region, but warn that continued vigilance is needed. The military has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace across affected communities, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies as clearance operations continue.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886913-iswap-bomb-expert-senior-commander-surrender-to-nigerian-military-official.html

Minister stresses youths’ critical role in reporting threats and using technology to support national security drive

Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerian youths across the country to take a leading role in tackling insecurity, saying that the efforts of security agencies alone are not enough to restore peace and stability. Musa made the call during a public event on Tuesday, highlighting the urgent need for active youth involvement at the community level.

The minister, addressing young Nigerians from various states, emphasised that the nation’s youth population remains its greatest asset and must be fully mobilised against rising cases of banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality affecting different regions. He noted that insecurity continues to threaten national development and disrupt livelihoods.

Musa stated that young people are well positioned within their communities to identify suspicious activities and share relevant information with security authorities. “Security is not just for the military or police. Every citizen, especially our youths, has a part to play,” he said.

He urged Nigerian youths to embrace patriotism and civic responsibility by supporting security efforts through vigilance, innovation, and positive use of technology. According to Musa, “We need our young people to use technology wisely—report threats early and prevent criminals from exploiting social networks.”

The minister further explained that empowering youths through education, skills acquisition, and economic opportunities would help address root causes of insecurity such as unemployment and vulnerability to recruitment by criminal groups. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving security but stressed that lasting peace requires collaboration between citizens and authorities.

Musa’s comments come as Nigeria grapples with persistent security challenges across several states, prompting renewed debate over community-led approaches. He concluded by calling on young Nigerians nationwide to rise above divisions and contribute actively towards building safer communities.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/christopher-musa-challenges-nigerian-youths-to-lead-fight-against-insecurity-2026061116455602486