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How Major General Farouk Yahaya Became Nigeria’s 26th  COAS May 26 On Merit

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General Farouk Yahaya Open Confession On Insecurity 
How Major General Farouk Yahaya Became Nigeria’s 26th  COAS May 27th On Merit
How Major General Faruk Yahaya Became Nigeria’s 26th  COAS May 26 On Merit
Major General Farouk Yahaya who was appointed the 26th Nigerian Army Chief of Staff on Thursday, May 27th by President Muhammadu Buhari has been described as a round peg in a round hole.
Findings by the National Association of Online Security Reporters, NAOSRE, revealed that the dedicated soldier least expected the elevation by President Buhari.
“He is such a dedicated officer who is primarily concerned about the professional execution of his assigned duties,” said a source that can be trusted with facts.
Continuing, the credible source told NAOSRE President, Femi Oyewale, that “Major General Faruk Yahaya is calm, cool and highly intelligent. When the idea for late general Attahiru’s replacement came up, he did not lobby anyone to interface for him.
“He never lobbied to be appointed. He did not even come near the Villa. He was just dedicated and committed to his duties as Theatre Commander Operation HADIN KAI, responsible for Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency operations in North East Nigeria.
“He is also well experienced as he has been a General Officer Commanding, GOC, Division 1, Kaduna. He is also a charismatic soldier  who is well loved by officers and men of the Nigerian Army.
“General Faruk Yahaya is very firm, tactical and a team player. Soldiers will co operate with him to end insurgency. So, the President has made the right choice,” disclosed the source.
Born on January 5, 1966, in Sifawa, Bodinga Local Government Area of Sokoto state, the new Chief of Army Staff is a thorough bred professional who  has distinguished himself over the years including as a two time Brigade Commander in Benin and North East, military Secretary and his recent assignment.
A member of the 37 Regular Course of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, he started his cadet training on 27 September 1985 and was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps on 22 September 1990.
He has held several appointments including Staff, Instructional and Command.
Notable among the appointments held by the new COAS are Garrison Commander Headquarters Guards Brigade, Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Deputy Director Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary,  Deputy Director Army Research and Development and the Chief of Staff, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation Pulo Shield.
He also served as the Principal General Staff Officer (PGSO) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Commander, Headquarters 4 Brigade and 29 Task Force Brigade (Operation Zaman Lafiya).
He was also Director Manpower at the Army Headquarters, Military Secretary, Army Headquarters and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army.
The new COAS is a proud holder of several honours and awards, some of which include, Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Grand Service Star, Passed staff course (Dagger), National Defence Course (Chile), Economic Community of West Africa State Monitoring Group Medal, Command Medal, Field Command Medal, General Operations Medal, Silver Jubilee Medal and Golden Jubilee Medal. He is happily married and blessed with children.
He holds a Bachelors of Arts Degree in History and Masters Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy and speaks Arabic, English language, Hausa  and Spanish fluently.
He was promoted first as a Lieutenant 27th September 1990, Captain 27th September 1994,Major 27th September 1998 and Lieutenant Colonel 27th September 2003.
Other preceding promotions were Colonel 27th September 2008, Brigadier General 27th September 2013 and  Major General 27th September 2017.
Among the appointments he has held are Platoon Commander 181 Mechanised Battalion; Platoon Commander  82 Mechanised Battalion; Company Second in Command 81 Battalion and Aide de Camp to Kano State Administrator.
He went on to later become Company Second in Command 20 Battalion; Commanding Officer 7 Battalion; General Staff Officer Grade 2 Army Headquarters Department of Training and Operations (Field Exercises).
General Yahaya was also a Staff Officer Grade 2 (Administration) Headquarters Guards Brigade; Staff Officer Grade 1 Headquarters Guards Brigade; Garrison Commander, Guards Brigade and Directing Staff, Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
He later became Deputy Director Military Secretary 3,  Department of Military Secretary (Army); Deputy Director Military Secretary 2,  Department of Military Secretary (Army); Deputy Director Research and Development,  Army Headquarters Department of Policy and Plans and Chief of Staff, Headquarters,  Operation Pulo Shield.
The military high Command subsequently entrusted him as Deputy Military Secretary 1, Department of Military Secretary (Army); Principal General Staff Officer to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Ministry  of Defence; Commander 4 Brigade Nigerian Army and Commander 29 Task Force Brigade,  Operation LAFIYA DOLE.
He also held the positions of Director Manpower, Army Headquarters Department of Administration; Military Secretary (Army), Department of Military Secretary (Army); General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army, Theatre Commander,  Operation LAFIYA DOLE and Theatre Commander Operation HADIN KAI respectively.
He has attended courses both home and abroad.

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“Chaos in Lokoja: Etsu Monarch Jumps Fence to Escape Deadly Hoodlum Raid on Palace”

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"Chaos in Lokoja: Etsu Monarch Jumps Fence to Escape Deadly Hoodlum Raid on Palace"

“Chaos in Lokoja: Etsu Monarch Jumps Fence to Escape Deadly Hoodlum Raid on Palace”

 

In a shocking turn of events, the Etsu Lokoja, HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika, Nyamkpa IV, narrowly escaped death when his palace was attacked by suspected hoodlums in the early hours of Saturday, around 1:00 am. The attackers set fire to his vehicle and other properties within the palace, forcing the monarch to jump over the palace fence to save his life.

 

The attack occurred just hours before the commencement of the “Lokoja ‘24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta,” a highly anticipated event organized by the Nupe natives of Lokoja Development Union. Many attendees had already arrived in preparation for the event, which was meant to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Nupe people. Unfortunately, the incident led to the cancellation of the event, which was supposed to take place on Saturday.

A Harrowing Escape

Narrating his terrifying experience to our correspondent on Monday, the Etsu Lokoja described the harrowing moments that followed the attack.

“It was around 1:00 am when I heard a loud bang on my door,” he recalled. “I woke up to check through the window, wondering what could have happened. Suddenly, I saw a wildfire coming out of my car, as it had been set ablaze by attackers.”

Realizing the palace was under siege, the monarch decided to act swiftly. “I knew it was an attack on the palace, and I couldn’t come out because of the fear of being attacked. So, I managed to exit through the back door and scaled the fence to save my life,” Dauda-Shelika said.

Once outside, the Etsu saw his neighbors attempting to extinguish the fire, but it was too late to save the vehicle, which was completely burned along with other valuables inside.

The Aborted Cultural Fiesta

The Etsu Lokoja expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the “Lokoja ‘24 Nupe Cultural Fiesta,” which was meant to be a significant celebration for the community. He explained that members of the event’s planning committee had met late into Friday night, until around 11:30 pm, and were heading home when the attack occurred.

“It is unfortunate that such an important cultural event had to be aborted due to this attack,” he lamented. “The Nupe people were looking forward to this celebration, and it’s very disheartening that it didn’t take place as planned.”

Appeals for Justice and Peace

Following the attack, the Etsu Lokoja made an emotional appeal to the government and security agencies, urging them to investigate the cause of the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also asked the Nupe natives of Lokoja to remain calm and avoid any acts of retaliation.

“We are appealing to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the relevant security agencies to use their offices to thoroughly investigate this unfortunate incident and bring those responsible to justice—whether directly or indirectly involved,” Dauda-Shelika said.

Furthermore, the monarch urged the government to officially recognize and grade the stool of Etsu Lokoja, which has existed long before colonization, as this would bring closure to the longstanding issues surrounding the title.

“We believe that by officially recognizing the stool of Etsu Lokoja, many of the issues surrounding our community will be laid to rest,” he added.

Authorities Tight-lipped on the Attack

As of Monday, the police and state security officials have remained tight-lipped about the incident. A police officer at the scene declined to comment, claiming he had not been authorized to speak on the matter. Efforts to reach the State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to repeated calls or text messages. Additionally, attempts to contact the state governor’s Security Adviser were also unsuccessful.

Conclusion

The attack on the Etsu Lokoja’s palace has left the community in shock, with many wondering about the motive behind such a brazen act. While investigations continue, the Etsu’s escape and the cancellation of the cultural event have cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous occasion for the Nupe people.

The public awaits answers from the authorities as the community hopes for justice and peace in the wake of this disturbing incident.

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Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

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Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

 

Nollywood superstar and box office queen Funke Akindele has achieved another remarkable feat with her latest comedy blockbuster, Everybody Loves Jenifa (ELJ). The film has officially become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2024, amassing a staggering N500 million in just 12 days.

Funke Akindele's Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

Taking to Instagram, Funke shared her heartfelt gratitude to fans and supporters for their unwavering love.


“Thank you, Lord!! Thank you, everyone!! I couldn’t have done this without your love and support!! God bless you all!!!” she wrote, accompanied by celebratory emojis.

 

 

The actress has every reason to celebrate, as Everybody Loves Jenifa continues to dominate cinemas both locally and internationally. The movie’s UK premiere at Odeon Cinemas last week sold out within minutes, prompting Funke to announce additional screenings to cater to the overwhelming demand.

 

 

Fans and critics alike have praised the film for its humor, relatability, and heartwarming themes, cementing Funke’s reputation as a Nollywood powerhouse and a master storyteller. The movie’s success is a testament to her ability to connect with audiences through her unique blend of comedy and heart.

 

 

With this latest achievement, Funke Akindele not only reinforces her status as a trailblazer in Nigerian cinema but also sets a new benchmark for Nollywood’s global reach and influence.

 

 

As Everybody Loves Jenifa continues its record-breaking streak, the actress remains focused on appreciating the fans who have made it all possible. “It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the love,” Funke said during a recent interview. “This journey wouldn’t be possible without God and my incredible supporters.”

 

 

The story of Jenifa’s endearing and comedic escapades has once again captivated audiences, proving that Funke Akindele’s magic is timeless and universal.

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Wizkid Ends 2024 in Style with a Stunning ₦1.7 Billion McLaren 750S

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Wizkid Ends 2024 in Style with a Stunning ₦1.7 Billion McLaren 750S

Wizkid Ends 2024 in Style with a Stunning ₦1.7 Billion McLaren 750S

 

Afrobeats superstar Wizkid has capped off an incredible year with a splashy new purchase: a 2024 McLaren 750S, reportedly valued at an eye-watering ₦1.7 billion.

Wizkid Ends 2024 in Style with a Stunning ₦1.7 Billion McLaren 750S

The acquisition of this exotic ride solidifies the ‘Joro’ hitmaker’s reputation as one of the most stylish and successful artists in the global music scene.

A video circulating online offers a closer look at the sleek supercar, showcasing its cutting-edge interior and powerful design. Wizkid’s excitement was palpable as he explored the modernized features of his new ride, flashing his signature smile while checking out the luxurious details.

This extravagant purchase comes hot on the heels of a different kind of headline: Wizkid recently offered ₦5 million to anyone who could help retrieve his stolen phone, snatched during a performance at a Lagos event. While the phone’s fate remains uncertain, Wizkid has wasted no time in treating himself to new milestones.

The star also made waves earlier this year with a heartwarming gesture for his sister, Yetunde, surprising her with a Range Rover worth an impressive ₦256 million.

Wizkid’s year-end splurge is a fitting finale to his stellar 2024, a year that saw him dominate the Afrobeats scene and maintain his reign as one of Africa’s most celebrated artists.

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