Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to welcome you to this briefing on the achievements of the Ministry of Defence under my watch. Over the past 2 years, our ministry has made significant strides in enhancing national security, modernizing our defence capabilities and promoting regional and international cooperation. Today, we will highlight some of the key accomplishments and milestones that demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding our nation and its people. As Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria’s stability is pivotal for West Africa and the continent at large. Globally, the proliferation of transnational threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime has necessitated enhanced international cooperation. Nigeria’s security challenges remain deeply connected to global and regional developments. Across Africa, we have seen a rise in transnational terrorism, cyber threats and armed insurgencies, fueled by weak borders, poverty, and climate-related displacement.

 

2. The Sahel region, in particular, has become a hotspot for Jihadist activities, with groups exploiting local grievances and state weaknesses. The instability in the Sahel has direct implications for Nigeria, especially in its northern regions. The Sahel, stretching across Africa south of the Sahara, faces escalating violence from armed Islamist groups. The formation of the Alliance of Sahel States by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, following their exit from ECOWAS, signifies a shift in regional security dynamics. However, analysts express concerns that these moves may further destabilize the region. Nigeria has had to respond strategically, balancing regional diplomacy with reinforced border security. Notably, we have maintained Nigeria’s commitment to multilateral platforms while recalibrating our regional defence posture to address new alliances such as the Alliance of Sahel States.

At this juncture, I am pleased to share with you an expert view on the cascading effect of the international security scenario, particularly on our national situation

3. The Lake Chad Basin, encompassing parts of Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, remains a focal point of insecurity. Despite efforts by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), continue to pose significant threats. Over the past 2 years, however, our intensified operations in the northeast, particularly through collaboration within the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have significantly weakened Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds. Several high-value targets have been neutralized, and dozens of captured territories have been reclaimed. In collaboration with our international partners, we have also enhanced intelligence sharing and deployed advanced surveillance technology in the Lake Chad region, improving our cross-border response capabilities.

4. Internally, Nigeria grapples with multiple security crises. In the northeast, the Boko Haram and ISWAP have continued to carry out isolated and desperate attacks, including the use of armed drones. The Northwest also faces banditry and kidnapping, while the North-central region experiences ethnic related and farmer-herder conflicts, exacerbated by climate change and resource competition. President Bola Tinubu’s administration, elected in 2023 with promises to enhance security, has been making determined efforts to fulfill this promise. However, contemporary security challenges in the country are neither isolated nor simplistic. They are deeply rooted in decades-long socio-political fractures, economic dislocations, porous transnational borders, foreign insurgent influences and a global terrorism matrix that continues to mutate beyond classical military doctrines.

5. Accordingly, addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, combining military efforts with socio-economic development, regional cooperation and robust governance to ensure lasting peace and stability. President Tinubu’s firm directive, “Enough is enough,” signals reinforcement of political will, which also spurs us to double our efforts in conjunction with all stakeholders towards overcoming the security challenges. Thus, under the leadership and direction of the president, the Ministry of Defence has coordinated joint efforts through intelligence sharing, coordinated various kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to defeat insecurity. In pursuance of the ministerial deliverables, the Ministry has achieved many feats which show a leap in the right direction. Nonetheless, history shows that defeating asymmetric threats requires not just bullets and bombs, but winning hearts and minds, stabilizing local economies, deradicalizing ideologies, and rebuilding governance structures all of which can best be achieved through whole of nation approach. Accordingly, this brief seeks to present the achievements of our ministry towards attaining its ascribed deliverables under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
AIM
6. The aim of this brief is to highlight the gains the Ministry of Defence has made towards achieving its ministerial deliverables from May 2023 to date.

 

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE MINISTERIAL DELIVERABLES

7. The ministerial deliverables for the Ministry of Defence centred around securing the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria. Accordingly, Honourable Ministers of Defence are answerable for the following deliverables:
a. Improve, expand and empower Special Operations Forces (SOF) Battalion.
b. Develop a policy framework for reducing dependency on imported foreign equipment.
c. Review policy framework on welfare for frontline security personnel.
d. Collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the strengthening of partnerships with neighbouring countries in dealing with conflict, insecurity, border control and joint economic and security-related operations.
e. Build the capacity of personnel of the AFN to enhance their operational efficiency.
f. Collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review Nigeria’s engagement/participation in Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), AU and ECOWAS Standby forces.
g. Collaborate with ONSA to develop and implement a revised policy framework that institutionalizes Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC).
h. Work with AFN to end insurgency in the North-East, Banditry in the North-West and other forms of insurgency in Nigeria.
i. Protect Nigerian Oil Installations on and Offshore.
j. Secure Nigeria’s territorial waters and end piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
k. Deploy and operationalize Electronic Content Management System (ECMS).
l. Implement the personnel performance management system of the Federal government to promote accountability in public service delivery.
m. Initiate and implement quarterly citizens and stakeholder engagement sessions to communicate government activities and serve as a feedback mechanism.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

8. The Ministry of Defence, with the support, and direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has continued to defend lives and property towards ensuring national security and protecting the territorial integrity of our country. The key achievements include enhanced synergy within the AFN and with other security agencies, defence equipment procurement, improvement in defence production and capacity development of troops. Others are troops’ welfare, increasing partnerships with friendly nations/organizations and sustaining stakeholder engagement sessions.
ENHANCED SYNERGY

9. The Ministry of Defence has prioritized collaboration among the services and with all stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to national security in Nigeria. The Ministry has also been championing initiatives and efforts to ensure the armed forces operate jointly and efficiently with all relevant stakeholders towards achieving operational objectives. A key part of this is the establishment of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre by the AFN. This underpins synergy across all Services by promoting joint doctrines and concepts which guide the conduct of operations. This enhanced synergy has led to the successes attained by our gallant troops in conjunction with other agencies.

10. Remarkably, the period under review has seen the killing/capture of numerous terrorists/bandits kingpins, the rescue of several hostages and the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition. Troops have also restored peace to hundreds of communities, and thousands of our people have returned to their ancestral homes. For instance, from May 2023 to February 2025, our troops have neutralized 13,543 terrorists/criminals, arrested 17,469 and rescued 9,821 hostages. Meanwhile, 124,408 BH/ISWAP terrorist combatant fighters and their families surrendered. The summary of other operational successes induced by the renewed synergy includes the recovery of 11,118 weapons and 252,596 assorted ammunitions.

 

As attested by the President, HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, during Nigeria’s 64th Independence Broadcast, over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated.  Some of the notorious key extremists/terrorist leaders eliminated include:
a. Damina Hannungiwa Bindin.
b. Kachalla Halilu Sabubu.
c. Ali Kawaje Madada.
d. Yallo Nagoshi Madada.
e. Mai Kusa Katsina.
f. Kachalla Dogo Gudale.
g. Sani Dangote.
h. Haruna Isya Boderi.
i. Buharin Yadi.
j. Munzir Arika – (BHT)
k. Ameer Modu – (BHT).
l. Bakura Arina Chiki – (BHT).
m. Kachalla Nagala Jabbi.
n. Kachalla Sani Black.
o. Kachalla Balejo.
p. Kachalla Uban Gida.
q. Lamo Saude.
r. Abu Bilal Manuki.
s. Alhaji Baldu Madaci.
t. Kachalla Idi (Namaidaro).
u. Gambo Kawaje Madada.
v. Kachalla Kabiru (Doka).
w. Maza Barume Madaro.
x. Kachalla Alhaji Dayi.
y. Sani Wala Burki.
z. Kachalla Dogo Kwaddi
aa. Chairman Hanazuwa.
ab. Kachalla Bandiyo.
ac. Odumegu.
ad. Maiyara Madaci.
ae. Alhaji Karki.
af. Kachalla Makore.
ag. Zakiru.
ah. Kachalla Azarailu.

11. Recently, there has been a renewed impetus to all our operations across the country, translating into commendable achievements. Specifically, in the Northeast, despite the recent short-lived desperation of the terrorists, troops have responded decisively and dealt a devastating blow across the theatre, killing Boko Haram Kingpins in the process. This year, troops have stormed the Timbuktu Triangle in the Northeast East, clearing terrorist Camps in Buk, Jamyeri, Abulam, Digimari and their training camp at Barin Baban Alasan. In the process, 18 terrorists were killed, including 3 high-profile terrorists namely Talha, the women leader, Mallam Umar, the RPG trainer and Abu Yazeed, the ISWAP Brigade Commander in the Triangle. Since May 2023, security along major routes such as Maiduguri – Gamborou, Maiduguri – Baga, Bama – Banki, Bama – Pulka – Kirawa, Maiduguri – Gwoza – Yola and many more has improved allowing socio-economic activities to thrive. Besides, communities in Borno State like Yemteke, Bita, Nguro-Soye, Gajibo and Kukawa, alongside many others, have returned to their ancestral homes. This shows the slow but steady return of peace through our kinetic and non-kinetic efforts. Our non-kinetic efforts include Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) in the NE which is sustained by the ministry. This programme that has received commendations and visits by foreign non-kinetic think tanks. For instance, the Sahelian Non-kinetic ThinkTank Study Group visited OPSC NE in March 2025 with a view to replicate it in the Sahelian States.

12. In the North West and North Central Zones, more steam was added to our operational posture with the deployment of hi-tech combat enablers and the operationalization of Operation FANSAN YAMMA. Also, the mandate of operation WHIRL STROKE has been expanded to include parts of Taraba State in addition to Nasarawa and Benue States. This stance has indeed yielded dividends in the killing of many Bandits and the arrest of several others. The enhanced synergism between our security forces, as inspired by the renewed Hope Agenda, has also spurred our troops to keep our highways clear of criminals. For instance, the Kaduna-Abuja Highway and the Railway are now safer for commuters and have been used for a long time without hitches. Another remarkable achievement was the prevailing security along roads like Kaduna – Birnin Gwari, Funtua – Gusau – Sokoto and Gusau – Kauran Namoda – Zurmi – Jibia. Similarly, the markets in areas such as Giwa, Birnin Gwari, Kasuwar Daji and Jibia are now booming with business, as attested by various traditional leaders, political leaders and the general public.

13. To mention a few specific examples of our recent operational successes in the Northwest, under Operation FANSAN YANMA, on 7 January 2025, a notorious bandit kingpin, Kachalla Dogo Isah, a cousin to late Tukur Sharme, who terrorised residents of Kachia and parts of Kajuru LGAs in Kaduna State along with 2 of his gang members, was neutralised. Similarly, on 7 February 2025, our troops neutralised 44 terrorists and wounded over 25 others in a coordinated assault in Zamfara State. Among the 44 terrorists eliminated were Sanni Bammuwa, Kachallah Auta (formerly the deputy to Sani Black), Audu Gajere, Kabiru Jangeru and Dan-Kane (son of Audu Jabbi). Similarly, Others killed this year were Sule Kachalla a.k.a Sulelle, Kachalla Dan Dange aka Sarkin Fulani, Salisu Mohammed aka Dogo Saleh, Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe and Na’ballo.

14. Moreover, a notorious gun runner and bandit, Na Faranshi, famous for supplying weapons from Mali and Niger to criminal groups in Nigeria’s Northwest was also eliminated in February 2025. Within April this year, Joint Military Operations eliminated Bandit Kingpin Gwaska, alongside over 100 foot soldiers in Katsina. Also, a bandit kingpin, Bello Kaura, who succeeded the late Halilu Sububu, was neutralised alongside Sububu’s brother Mati and an unspecified number of bandits on 9 April 2025. Maigemu, a Lakurawa kingpin, was also eliminated in Arewa LGA of Kebbi State, while bandit leader “Yellow Aboki” was eliminated in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara State within the First Quarter of 2025. In April 2025 alone, key leaders such as Kachalla Alti, Kachalla Harisu and Kachalla Bello Kaura have been neutralised alongside their numerous foot soldiers. Most recently, in a decisive operation, on 1 Apr 25, 3 key terrorist leaders, including Auta Jijji, Dankali and Sagidi, Kachalla Rijaji and Kachalla Suza were neutralized in Zamfara State. During the encounter, some weapons and ammunition were captured.

15. In the North Central, Operation SAFE HAVEN and Operation WHIRL STROKE have neutralised/arrested several terrorists, gun runners and kidnappers. The establishment of 2 National Mission Force (NMF) Bde, Samaru Kataf by DHQ have helped to address the challenges in Southern Kaduna, leading to improved socio-economic activities. Within the First Quarter of 2025, a total of 122 extremists were eliminated, while 1,023 criminals and 405 hostages were arrested and rescued, respectively. Gladly, 3 gun-making factories were discovered and destroyed in the Riyom and Mangu areas of Plateau State. To mention but a few, on 15 March 2025, two notorious kidnappers, Bashir Mohammed and Ismail Mohammad, were apprehended by troops in in Bassa LGA of Plateau State. Besides, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN have arrested a notorious cult leader Fidelis Adamu on 20 March 2025 in Plateau State. Additionally, on the same day, troops apprehended a suspected member of a high-profile gunrunning syndicate Alhaji Mansur Mohammad in Donga LGA of Taraba State. Furthermore, on the same day, troops arrested a suspected high-profile bandit leader, Adamu Yakubu (aka No Money No Guy). Adamu is linked the suspect to several cases of banditry, kidnapping for ransom and violent crimes across Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State and Southern Taraba including a brutal attack on 10 March 2025 at Tse-Shiikaa village in Katsina-Ala LGA.

16. At this juncture, let me cast our minds to the fact that the tragedy unfolding across Benue, Plateau, Kwara, and other states is not a sudden phenomenon. It is the culmination of years of weak communal relations, the collapse of rural economies, foreign fighter infiltration, climate-driven migration pressures, and the trans-border proliferation of sophisticated arms from failed North African states. These are strategic and complex problems far beyond the reach of simple military deployment or spontaneous reaction. Hence, we have initiated several non-kinetic mechanisms to ensure that various parties embrace peace and shun violence as a means of settling scores. I have visited Plateau State twice and engaged with all the parties, and our meetings were very fruitful.

17. The SW Zone has remained relatively calm with isolated cases of armed robbery, kidnappings for ransom and cultism. There were also reports of migration of terrorists into the SW Zone, particularly the KAINJI National Park. Our troops in conjunction with other agencies and local volunteers are making efforts to defeat the threats, especially the so-called Mahmuda Insurgents. Moreover, the efforts of troops have forestalled many illegal activities that could further compound the complexity of the security landscape in the zone. Thus, the NA, through joint efforts with local authorities and increased public cooperation in sharing vital information, has been able to significantly decrease criminal activities in the zone. One key achievement among many others was the interception of a truck with 2 occupants on 15 Jul 23 by troops, in which 720 cartons of Red Star Cartridge of 12 Calibre, totaling 18,000 cartridges and 250 packets of live Black Pellets, totaling 2,500 cartridges, were discovered. The arrested suspects, Eric (Ghanaian) and Lukman Sani (Nigerian), claimed the exhibit was being conveyed from MALI via IDIROKO to be delivered to the owner at ONITSHA in ANAMBRA State. Interceptions like this help reduce the proliferation of arms in the country, which are fuelers of insecurity.

18. In the South East Operation, UDO KA, several secessionist agitators have been eliminated and some arrested. This has made the infamous sit–at–home orders by the criminals ineffective. For instance, in late 2024, our troops arrested Paul Iguh, the founding father of the ESN group in the Orsu general area of Imo State. Similarly, troops have conducted a raid that resulted in the arrest of another IPOB terrorist commander identified as Emmanuel Onwugu. Relatedly, troops and security forces in a combined sting operation arrested a notorious cult leader, Ifeanyi Rock alongside 10 of his combatants in Arochukwu in Abia State. The coordinated arrest of IPOB chief, Simon Ekpa, by Finnish Police also helps break the organization. Efforts were also made to isolate the IPOB by denying them the leeway to align with the Ambazonian Rebels in Cameroon. Recently, combined efforts of security forces have resulted in the neutralization of 6 separatists, including 3 key ESN kingpins: Ifeanyi Anayo (a.k.a. Zuma De Rock), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe (a.k.a. Nmimi) and Kingsley Sunday. With these developments, the security situation in the Southeast is relatively calm under this administration, thereby returning the socio-economic boom the region is known for.

19. In the South-south region, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE have discovered and destroyed about 3,849 dugout pits (used to store stolen crude before local processing), 1,871 boats and 4,543 storage tanks. Other items recovered and destroyed included 3,773 cooking ovens, 135 pumping machines and 1,978 illegal refining sites. Moreover, large quantities of stolen crude oil, illegally refined AGO, DPK and PMS were confiscated. The navy has also arrested some vessels for various offences. Some of these vessels include MT KALI, MT SWEET HARBOUR SPIRIT, MT SAISNIL, MV TOKITO, MT VINILLARIS and MT SWEET MIRI, among other boats associated with illegal activities.

20. Moreover, high percentages of terminal factors recorded along the Trans-Niger, Trans Escravos and Trans Forcados pipelines by as much as 95 – 100 per cent have been sustained in the Third and Fourth Quarters of 2024, as well as the First Quarter of 2025. This has improved Nigeria’s oil production from an average of 1.25m bpd in January 2023 to averagely 1.8m bpd, as many illegal refining sites/infrastructures were destroyed, while crude oil theft worth millions of Naira was averted. The Navy’s operational responses within the period under review also led to the capture of foreign parboiled rice, Cannabis Sativa and other psychoactive substances smuggled or attempted to be smuggled in wooden boats, worth millions of Naira. It is also worth noting that our efforts have led to Nigeria’s exit from the list of piracy-prone countries by the International Maritime Bureau Global Piracy Report of 3 March 2022, which is being sustained.

21. To further enhance the synergism, the Ministry is actively collaborating with the Ministries of Blue Economy, Agriculture, Petroleum, Communications, Power and Solid Minerals to enhance security around national parks, forest reserves, inland waterways, as well as mining, oil exploration/supply sites and other critical national assets in conjunction with other security agencies. This has greatly boosted economic activities and enhanced livelihood in the affected areas while enhancing service delivery to all Nigerians. On the whole, the security strategy spearheaded by ensuring synergy has proven to be efficient. This was further confirmed by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, during a high-level dialogue while delivering a lecture on the Renewed Hope Agenda with the theme “Nigeria’s Global Ambitions: From Hope to Reality,” on 17 May 2024 in Abuja.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am not beating this success drum alone, as various leaders and the general public have testified to the great successes achieved by this administration in terms of security. Accordingly, permit me to show you just a few for emphasis in this video clip

Deliverables H, I and J

ENHANCING REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

22. The Ministry has acknowledged that insecurity is best tackled through collective efforts. Accordingly, the Ministry, in collaboration with the MoFA, has engaged in a series of bilateral talks, meetings and agreements with allied countries and regional/international organizations. Key areas of foreign collaboration achieved by the MOD within the period include:
a. Renewed commitment to engage the Lake Chad Basin Development Countries under the MNJTF.
b. Defence bilateral meeting at the sidelines of the High-Level Counter-Terrorism Summit with delegations from Libya, Tunisia, Angola, Mauritania, and the EU, to seek for best alternatives for fighting security threats and forging defence ties.
c. Ongoing engagement between the MODs of Nigeria and Ethiopia to articulate and approve a joint action plan to implement the already signed Nigeria-Ethiopia defence bilateral MoU.
d. MoU on Joint Military Cooperation between Nigeria and Egypt signed on 28th August, 2024.
e. The successful organizing and hosting of the Africa Armed Forces Games in Nigeria.
f. Participation in the Schuman Forum 2024, which is an EU initiative to ensure global security. The security of the Sahel was the focal point.
g. Participated in the 79th UNGA, where issues bordering on the Nuclear Arms Treaty and global peace initiatives were deliberated.
h. Meeting with the delegation of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition, Saudi Arabia, led by the Secretary General, Major General Mohammed Bin Saleem Al-Moghidi, on 28 October 2024.
i. Meeting with Commander United States African Command.
j. Various meetings/discussions to secure Africa and the ECOWAS region on the platforms of the AU and Africa.
k. The 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff.

l. The 6th Turkey – Nigeria Defence Industry Cooperation Meeting between the Defence Industry Agency of Turkey and the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, held in Turkey from 20 – 24 February 2024.
m. Finalizing MoU waiting to be signed with Brazil on defence cooperation.
23. To further entrench Regional and International Cooperation and contribute to global peace and security, within the period, Nigeria, through the MOD, has maintained its forces deployed across the globe for peacekeeping operations. These are:
a. A total of 196 Nigerian troops are currently deployed for the ECOWAS Mission in the Gambia (ECOMIG).
b. Nigeria has a total of 173 personnel in the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Force in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB)
c. Nigeria maintains a Base Defence Company (BDC) of 160 Nigerian troops for the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA).
d. ECOWAS Advisory Training Team in Liberia (EATT) – 7 Personnel.
e. Regional Centre for Maritime Security of West Africa CRESMAO/ MMCCC), Cote D’Ivoire – 2 Personnel.
f. African Union Continental Logistics Base in Douala, Cameroon – 2 Personnel.
g. Multinational Maritime Coord Centre, Cotonou. – 5 Personnel.
h. United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) – 14 Personnel.
i. United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA) – 7 Personnel.
j. United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO. – 8 Personnel.
k. United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (NUNURSO) – 7 Personnel.
l. United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) – 2 Personnel.
m. United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) 4 Personnel.
n. United Nations Interim Security Force Abyei (UNISFA) – 21 Personnel.
o. United Nations Multi-Dimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) – 13 Personnel.
Deliverable F

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT OF TROOPS

24. The MOD is ever grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his magnanimity and commitment towards ensuring national security as enshrined in his Renewed Hope Agenda. In this wise, the President, through the supplementary budget, Annual Budgets and several interventions, has provided the Ministry with financial resources to procure platforms, upgrade/maintain existing ones, and provide infrastructure and training for the armed forces. This is to boost the capacity of the services and enhance their efficiency in tackling contemporary and emerging threats.

25. Procurement/Upgrade of Equipment. Within the allocated resources, the MOD has invested in advanced weaponry, communications systems, surveillance technology, and logistics infrastructure to enhance the operational effectiveness of the services. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Army.
(1) 20 Light Combat Vehicles from EPAIL.
(2) Acquisition of 224 B vehicles.
(3) Procurement of 50 EQ Series 2060 and 50 EQ Series Armoured Fighting Vehicles.
(4) The procurement of 2 Bell UH–1d Helicopters.
(5) The ongoing installation of a precision security equipment system for the security of the Abuja – Kaduna Highway/Rail Line.
(6) Purchase of Heavy-Duty Counter IED with GPR.
(7) Purchase of Qty 3695 x AK 47 Rifles.
(8) Acquisition of 2 Sets of 100m Bailey Bridges with Spares and Training.
b. Navy.
(1) Two Ships, NNS ZUR and NNS CHALLAWA.
(2) Two OPV NNS SHERE and NNS FARO.
(3) Twenty two Fast assault Boats (delivered).
(4) Two Messrs Leonardo Helicopter AW109.
(5) Four U8A and 4 UAS UAVS.
(6) One Ocean Survey Vessel; NNS OCHUZO.
(7) Three Augusta Westland|0 Helicopters inducted.
(8) PKM 317 Vessel from South Korea.

c. Air Force

(1) The acquisition and induction of the King Air 360i and DA-62.
(2) The upgrade of Alpha Jet and L-39, Mi-35s and 2 x A109-p helicopters.
(3) The induction of 6 T-129 – ATAK Helicopters.
(4) Procurement of 4 DA-62 SMA aircraft.
(5) Procurement of one KA-350ER aircraft.
(6) Procurement of 2 KA–360/ER aircraft.
(7) Procurement of 2 CW–400 UAVs.
(8) Procurement of 2 A–109 Trekka Helicopters (to be inducted soon into service).

26. Training. Improving the skills and capabilities of the AFN through comprehensive training programmes is essential. Within the period, the Ministry has supported the conduct of basic, technical, leadership and specialized training in areas such as counterinsurgency, cyber security, and peacekeeping operations at home and abroad. Additionally, the annual recruitments and enlistments have been steadily maintained to boost the ranks of the AFN. Moreover, all our military training institutions have been adequately resourced and guided to conduct professional military courses to equip our personnel, personnel sister security agencies and personnel of allied nations with skills to operated professionally in contemporary and emerging security environments. There is also ongoing training and equipping of 800 Special Forces drawn from our Armed Forces which is the first of the earmarked 2400 personnel in Jaji, Kaduna State. The training and equipping of Special Forces will serve as a force multiplier and will enable the Services to conduct specialized missions. It is pertinent to state that the Ministers regularly visit the training areas to have an on-the-spot assessment of the quality of the training and training materials, as well as encourage the trainees. As part of the numerous efforts to enhance troops’ capacity, the Ministry has recently supported the Nigerian Army to train pilots, Aircraft Engineers and support personnel to operationalize the NA Aviation Corps.

27. Modernization. Technology is considered another aspect that boosts troops’ efficiency. Accordingly, the Ministry has invested heavily in acquiring modern equipment from budgetary allocations and interventions. Recently, a Technical Committee of experts that has members from the Armed Forces, office of the NSA, MDAs and relevant stakeholders tasked by the ministry to come up with the best technology that could be deployed to give our forces an edge has submitted its report for implementation. Moreover, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Defence Complex was conducted this year. The project was part of the defence sector reform to provide AFN with modern, conducive working in line with global trend. When completed, the complex will house the DHQ, services headquarters, and a state-of–the-art command-and-control hub to ensure uninterrupted coordination amongst the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
Deliverables A and E

ENHANCING DEFENCE PRODUCTION

28. On assumption of office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the DICON Bill, 2023, which is a significant step towards enhancing the country’s defence production. The Act endows the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) with several powers, including the establishment of a robust Military-Industrial Complex (MIC). Presently, DICON has established various levels of engagement to collaborate with 53 defence companies across the globe to develop a Military Industrial hub in Nigeria. DICON has signed MoU with 28 companies while 25 have pending MoU. Additionally 10 companies that signed MoU with DICON have commenced production. Accordingly, below are some companies that signed MoU with DICON.
a. D7G.
b. Proforce Limited.
c. Imperium Industries Nigeria Ltd.
d. Defence Integrated Resources Ltd.
e. Nigerian Defence Academy (R&D) .
f. National Metallurgical Development Center.
g. Equipment Application Ltd.
h. Phylote Ltd.
i. X – Shield Ltd.
j. Buckler Ltd.
k. DICON Sur.
l. Mystrose Defence System Ltd.

29. Recently, DICON has also resumed the production of ammunition due to the repairs and upgrades of the production line. This production will save the nation a huge amount of funds that could be channeled to other sectors for national development.
Deliverable B

PERSONNEL WELFARE

30. The Ministry of Defence, within the reviewed period, has been paying adequate attention to the physical and mental well-being of personnel. To ensure thoroughness, the Ministry looks at welfare holistically to include the service and retired personnel. These include specialized care for combat-related injuries, mental health support, and preventive care. The recent giant step was the groundbreaking ceremony of the Invictus Care Centre. A state-of-the-art medical care centre to attend to wounded personnel that has no second in Africa. All military personnel and their families are enrolled in the NHIS system through the DHML. Moreover, military hospitals are adequately resourced with personnel and equipment to cater for the medical needs of the military. Some of the achievements include:

a. Accreditation of Military Hospital Port Harcourt to a 5-star status.
b. Accreditation of the defence reference laboratory to a 5-star standard laboratory.
c. Construction and furnishing of Medical Research Laboratory at 82 Div Hospital Enugu.
d. Procurement of Electronic Medical Records for 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna,
e. Upgrade of Military Hospital Port Harcourt and Nigerian Navy Hospital Warri.
f. Establishment and commencement of Interns’ training at Defence Hospital Abuja.
g. Accreditation of Nigerian Army School of Signals and School of Medical Sciences.

31. Another aspect of ensuring troops’ welfare was to ensure all entitlements were paid as appropriate and as when due. Accordingly, this Ministry has ensured all emoluments due to serving or retired personnel are paid as when due. Notably, the president has approved and released the sum of 18 billion Naira as Group Life Insurance Benefits to support with Nigerian Army personnel who died and were omitted from the Insurance between 2011 – 2014. Considering the present realities and to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda, the MOD, through the Military Pension Board, has developed a system for the electronic verification of pensioners known as the Electronic Verification Management System (EVMS). The EVMS was to wade off the transportation hassles on the pensioners and enable them to verify from the comfort of their homes using mobile devices without physical verification. This portrays another welfare initiative to pensioners by helping them avoid the associated risks and costs of travelling as well as ensuring they receive their pensions promptly. This coupled with the introduction of the Debarment Allowance remain huge incentives to prevent the veterans from being less inclined to use their skills against national interests.

32. It is worth mentioning that our service men have never missed any allowance due to them throughout the period. Additionally, the Ministry has improved accommodation and other welfare incentives, which have kept the morale and fighting spirit as well as their efficiency at its best throughout the tenure of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. At service levels, the MOD has encouraged welfare schemes to provide succour to troops and their families as appropriate. These initiatives include the COAS Personnel Empowerment Loan Scheme (CPELS), designed to complement the already existing Nigerian Army Welfare Loan Scheme. The key areas CPELS focuses on include skill acquisition, agriculture, and investment/establishment of small and medium-scale businesses, amongst others. There is also the CAS Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy (GPAIP), which was instituted in January 2024 to provide compensation for bodily injuries, temporary or permanent disabilities, death, medical expenses, and salary reimbursement to the Next of Kin of deceased personnel. GPAIP would provide comfort to families of deceased personnel and reassure serving personnel that the NAF prioritizes their welfare. In the last Quarter of 2024, the Ministry has coordinated the signing of the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for our Armed Forces. This document encapsulates robust measures to cater for the welfare of our servicemen and their families. Most recently, Defence Holdings Company Limited was commissioned as a private limited liability company established as a platform for innovation, to contribute meaningfully to national development and enhance troops’ welfare.

33. Improving Infrastructure. Within the available funding, the Ministry has also provided some infrastructure to ensure optimal output and cater for the welfare of service personnel. Recently, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks was commissioned, which is one of the numerous efforts by the president through the ministry to accord a befitting accommodation to our officers and soldiers. Outlined below are some initiatives in this regard:
a. Construction and operationalization of the 2 NMF Bde Samaru Kataf.
b. Construction of a state-of-the-art medical facility in 401 Special Forces Brigade, Makurdi.
c. Construction and furnishing of Medical Research Laboratory at 82 Division Hospital, Enugu.
d. Construction and repairs of Jetties at NOP IKURU and FOB BONNY.
e. Establishment of Naval Outpost SHAGUNU in Niger State (Currently ongoing Operationalization phase).
f. Establishment of Naval Composite Operations Base in Enugu.
g. Repairs/construction of Barracks accommodation at:
(1) HQ 3 Bde Kano.

(2) Depot NA, Zaria.

(3) Mambilla Barracks, Abuja.

(4) NAF Base Abuja.

(5) HQ 23 Armoured Bde Yola.

(6) 10 x 1 Bedrooms at Nigerian Navy Logistics College Kano.

(7) 10 x 1 Bedroom at HQ Central Naval Command Yenagoa.

(8) 16 x 2 Bedroom and 24 x 1 Bedroom at Navy Town Asokoro, Abuja.

(9) Road Network at NNS SOROH, Yenagoa.
(10) BOQ, Base Flat at NNS Beecroft, Apapa.
(11) 6 x Flats at Navy Barracks Calabar.
(12) Upgrade of computer schools at NNS QUORRA, Lagos and Nigerian Navy Engineering College, Sapele to Core ICT Centres.
(13) Block of 10 x 1 Bedroom Airmen studio at Igbara–Oke.
(14) Additional 200 Bed Hostel, Igbara – Oke.
(15) Block of 10 x 1 Bedroom SOQ at Igbara – Oke.
(16) 18 x 2 Bedroom Airmen Accommodation at Oshogbo.
(17) Construction of Engineering Wing at 213 FOB Katsina.
(18) 18 x 2 Bedroom SNCO Accommodation at 407 ACTG, Kainji.
(19) Multi-Storey Office Building at 1065 Cadastral Zone Abuja – Phases 1, 2 & 3.
(20) Military Airport Commandant Building, Abuja.
(22) Taxiway at Katsina Airport.
(23) 30 x 1 Bedroom at NAF Base Bill Clinton, Abuja.
(24) Joint Airmen Mess, Ushafa.
(25) Major and internal road network in MBC Giri Phase 1.
(26) 4 Km block wall fence around MBC Giri Phase 1.
(27) Warehouses, fence and administrative block at 2 Base Ammunition Depot.
(28) Staff residential accommodation at the Army War College, Nigeria.
(29) 10-Family CBQ, 5 each across AHQ, Corps HQ, training schools and independent units.
(30) Completion of primary school at NASFC Doma (Phase 2).
(31) NAF Hospital, Asokoro.
(32) NAF Micro Finance Bank, Abuja.

34. The Ministry is also giving due attention to the welfare of troops on various operations. These include prompt payments of allowances and other entitlements. The Ministry has also ensured the supply of equipment and ensured they are in good working condition at all times by ensuring a steady supply of spares and consumables. Medically, the MOD, through its reinvigorated synergy, ensured prompt treatment in the front for minor cases and immediate MEDEVAC/AIR EVACUATION as the case may be. The ministers have been visiting the troops at the front lines and have directed service chiefs and the CDS to do so regularly. This is to give the troops a sense of belonging and spur them to do their best. The visit was also to assess the morale, operational readiness and efficiency. The ministers paid a visit to troops of Op HADIN KAI in Maiduguri on 28 November 23 and Op HADARIN DAJI in Sokoto on 10 May 24. In another effort to assess operational readiness and efficiency, they also paid a visit to troops of Op WHIRL PUNCH and Op FOREST SANITY at HQ 1 Div Kaduna and HQ 3 Div Kano on 22 and 23 March 2024, respectively. I have undertaken a tour of operational areas in Port Harcourt, Bayelsa, Bonny Island, Kaduna, Birnin Gwari, Kachia, Kafanchan and Jos. Other areas visited were Maiduguri, Gusau, Zurmi, Katsina and Sokoto.

35. Establishment of Command Secondary Schools. The well-being of troops’ families has been a key priority to the current administration. To cater for the educational needs of troops’ wards, 3 command children’s schools and one command secondary school were established. These include:
a. Command Children School, Gusau.
b. Command Children School, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
c. Command Children School, Daura.
d. Command Day Secondary School, Daura.

Deliverable C

INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF CIVIL-MILITARY COOPERATION AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS

36. The MOD has now embraced an all-society approach to our national security. As part of our non-kinetic efforts, we are engaging civil society organizations (CSOs), community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to address the root causes. Building trust and cooperation between the military and civilian institutions can strengthen national security and stability. The ministers had several meetings with CSOs and key leaders. They also encouraged the weekly press briefing by the DHQ to keep the public abreast of the happenings in different operational theatres. Recently, on a working visit, I interacted with the governments and troops in Katsina, Borno, Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, Plateau, Enugu, Imo, Rivers and Bayelsa States. The engagements were to implore all relevant stakeholders to devise both kinetic and non-kinetic options towards lasting solutions to the insecurity and safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria. Visiting our troops also accorded me the opportunity to interact with them, asses challenges and the general operational situation for necessary intervention. Some key stakeholders that the ministers met in this regard include:

a. Concerned Yoruba Muslim Scholars in Nigeria .
b. National President, Alumni Association of the National Institute.
c. Nigerian Clerics Association.
d. African Youth Sports Federation.
e. North Central Peoples’ Forum Youth Wing.
f. Nigeria Red Cross Society.
g. Arewa Traders Association.
h. National Association of Nigerian Students.
i. National Students Association of Nigeria.
j. Nigerian Association of Women Journalists.
k. Veterans Associations (The Nigerian Legion, Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers Association).
l. Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
m. Chartered Institute of Project Managers.
n. Nigerian Military School, Zaria Ex-Boys Association.
o. Geo-Information Society of Nigeria.

37. The Ministers have also met other key personalities, including:
a. Alhaji Abdulsalami Abubakar.
b. Gen Martin Luther Agwai (Rtd).
c. Maj Gen Bashir Salihi Magashi (Rtd) – immediate past HMOD.
d. Brig Gen Mansur Dan Ali (Rtd) – Past HMOD.
e. Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Saad Abubakar.
f. Hajia Amina Mohammed – UN Deputy Secretary General.
g. Emirs of Birnin- Gwari and Kontagora.
h. Governors/representatives of Kaduna, Plateau, Zamfara, Jigawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Enugu, Imo, Borno, Imo, Enugu, Rivers and Katsina States Governments.
i. Meeting with Major General Garrick Harmon, the Director of Strategy Engagement and Programmes of the US AFRICOM.
j. Mr Mohammed Malick, The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria.
k. Mr Casmin Dirban, the Director Peace, Partnership and Crisis Management, Department of European External Action Service, Brussels.
l. General Shahir Shamsad of the Pakistan Army.
m. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs.
n. Rear Admiral HU Gangfeng, the Vice President and Dean, National Defence University, China.
o. Lord Coaker, the UK Minister of Armed Forces.
p. Dr Yau Usman, the DG Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority.
q. Maj Gen Kenneth Ekman, Head of the US Department of West Africa Coordination Element

Deliverables G and M

CONTAINMENT MEASURES

38. Recently, there has been a resurgence of Boko Haram attacks in isolated military locations in Borno State and a communal clash in the Bokkos LGA of Plateau State, which claimed some lives. This development is unfortunate, but we remain resolute to keep Nigeria safe for all law-abiding citizens. Accordingly, the Ministry has undertaken the following steps:

a. A monthly security brief by CDS and service chiefs to the Honourable Minister to appraise the security situation, operational progress, and to develop strategies to effectively counter threats.
b. Redeployment of Special Forces Units to Goniri in Yobe State.
c. The re-jig of other operating factors in the North East.
d. Establishment and operationalization of Sect 4, OPHK in Mubi.
e. The generation of an additional 4 battalions that are currently undergoing training to be injected into the North East Theatre.
f. Chief of Army Staff stakeholders’ engagement in Bokkos and Shendam LGAs.
g. Charging relevant government agencies to do more, especially in the aspect of non-kinetic efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of the crisis in the Plateau State.
h. Expanding the mandate of operation WHIRL STROKE to include parts of Taraba State in addition to Nasarawa and Benue States.

THE ROAD AHEAD

39. The Ministry’s future strategic plans are focused towards the desired outcome that is expected to achieve certain parameters for enhanced national security. These parameters are geared towards ending insurgency and banditry in the Northeast and Northwest, respectively. Furthermore, these measures will also be a vehicle to curb pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the South-south and help to end separatist agitation in the Southeast for enhanced national security via:

a. Continuous modernization of the Armed Forces through the acquisition of state-of-the-art technology equipment.
b. Continuous collaboration with MDAs, relevant security agencies, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders for sustained national security and development.
c. Continuous partnership with friendly nations to enhance national and regional security.
d. Review of National Defence Policy 2017,( which is ongoing).
e. Implementation of the provisions of Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service 2024 (officers and soldiers/ratings/airmen).
f. Continued digitalization and electronic content management system.
g. Increase the strength of the AFN through the enlistment of more officers and enhanced recruitment of soldiers, ratings and airmen/airwomen.

Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni
May 2025 Honourable Minister of Defence