“No Retreat, No Complacency: Buratai Insists Fighting Spirit Must Remain Unbroken as Troops Turn the Tide”

ABUJA — Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has said Nigerian troops have recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres of operation, noting that recent gains indicate a shifting momentum in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security threats.

Buratai disclosed this in a post on his verified Facebook page, stating that coordinated efforts by the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force have contributed to sustained pressure on criminal elements across the country.

In the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai repelled a major attack on Kukareta community in Borno State, killing 24 terrorists and recovering a cache of weapons, including rifles, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenade launchers.

He added that follow-up operations led to the discovery of additional terrorist casualties, while troops in Kanamma, Yobe State, neutralised four insurgents alongside a high-value ISWAP commander identified as Abu Jarir.

Buratai further stated that airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force in the Lake Chad region targeted gatherings of ISWAP fighters on Kaniram Island, resulting in heavy casualties and disruption of their movement.

In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma recorded notable successes against bandits, including the recovery of over 200 rustled cattle in Katsina State after an encounter with a group led by a suspected kingpin, Muhammad Filani.

He noted that similar operations in Zamfara State and Kaduna State led to the destruction of criminal hideouts, recovery of arms, rescue of kidnapped victims and arrest of suspects.

In the North-Central, Buratai said troops of Operation Enduring Peace arrested suspected militia members involved in cattle rustling in Plateau State and recovered stolen livestock, while ambush operations led to the neutralisation of armed bandits.

He also disclosed that troops of Operation Delta Safe uncovered illegal oil bunkering activities in Rivers State, recovering large quantities of stolen crude oil

In the South-East, security forces arrested a suspected commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra known as “Calamity,” allegedly linked to attacks on security personnel.

Buratai further revealed that the remains of two soldiers killed in 2022—Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Lance Corporal Gloria Mathew—had been recovered and would be accorded full military burial honours.

He attributed the operational gains to improved intelligence gathering, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and the resilience of troops on the frontlines.

While acknowledging that the fight against insecurity is not yet over, Buratai urged Nigerians to sustain support for the military and other security agencies through credible intelligence and encouragement.

He stressed that the moment demands heightened resolve from troops.

“The terrorists and bandits are weakened but still dangerous. This is the time to intensify operations and not relent,” he said.

Buratai also called on the media to maintain balanced reporting on security matters, noting that highlighting both successes and challenges remains essential to sustaining public trust and national morale.

IGP Disu Feted At Lagos Banquet, Credited With Leadership Shaped By The State

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, was on Saturday honoured at a state banquet in Lagos, where he was celebrated as a proud son of the state whose career reflects discipline and service.

The event, hosted by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, brought together top government officials, security chiefs and community leaders to recognise the nation’s top police officer.

Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu described Disu as “one of our own,” noting that his journey was shaped by Lagos. He highlighted his academic background at Lagos State University and his upbringing on Lagos Island as key influences on his leadership and values.

Disu’s career progression was also spotlighted, particularly his tenure as head of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos, where he was credited with strengthening security operations and improving public confidence.

“Tonight is a celebration of service and the Lagos spirit,” the Governor said, adding that the state takes pride in Disu’s achievements at the national level.

The event featured a ceremonial toast in honour of the Inspector-General, who was described as the “OG Good Guy of the Good Guys.”

In his response, Disu expressed appreciation for the recognition, dedicating the honour to officers of the Nigeria Police Force working daily to ensure security across the country.

A native of Lagos Island and an alumnus of Lagos State University, Disu has held several strategic command positions prior to his appointment as Inspector-General of Police. His leadership of the Rapid Response Squad is widely regarded as pivotal to Lagos’ security framework.

Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Makinde, Ajadi, Others Converge in Ibadan for Historic Opposition Summit Ahead of 2027

In a significant political convergence that could reshape Nigeria’s democratic landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, prominent opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, gathered in Ibadan on Saturday for the National Summit of Opposition Political Parties Leaders.

The high-level summit, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House Ibadan, also drew the participation of leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, alongside several political heavyweights and stakeholders across party lines.

Convened under the theme, “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” the summit brought together representatives from major opposition platforms including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

Other notable figures at the summit included former Senate President David Mark, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal.

Also in attendance were elder statesman Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, political economist Pat Utomi, social activist Aisha Yesufu, and former APC National Secretary John Akpanudoedehe, among others.

Speakers and stakeholders at the summit examined critical national issues, including electoral reforms, national security, economic recovery, and the need for stronger democratic institutions, as part of efforts to forge a united opposition front ahead of 2027.

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, who actively participated in the summit, spoke with journalists shortly after stepping out of the Banquet Hall. Addressing newsmen, Ajadi described the gathering as a turning point for opposition politics in Nigeria.

“This summit represents a new beginning for the opposition in Nigeria. What we are seeing is a deliberate effort to put aside differences and work towards a common goal,” Ajadi said.

He noted that the collaboration among diverse political actors signals a renewed commitment to national development and democratic consolidation.

Nigerians are looking for direction and credible leadership. The responsibility is on us as opposition leaders to provide that alternative and restore confidence in governance,” he added.

Analysts say the Ibadan summit marks one of the most coordinated efforts by opposition forces in recent years, signaling early realignments and possible coalition-building ahead of the next general elections.

As deliberations continue, political observers believe the outcomes of the summit could significantly influence Nigeria’s political direction, particularly if the unity advocated by participants translates into concrete alliances.