News
UPDATE: Profiles of the deceased military personnel in Niger crash

The Nigerian military is currently holding a mass burial for soldiers who lost their lives in an attack and plane crash in Niger state.
Bandits ambushed the troops, resulting in the death of 14 soldiers and injuring seven others. To respond to the situation, the Air Force deployed an evacuation aircraft, which unfortunately crashed, claiming the lives of all passengers, including two pilots and two crew members.
As seen in the programme of events, these are the profiles of the deceased soldiers;
LATE MAJOR SEGUN ABIODUN ONI (N/14427) AND OTHERS
1. Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni was born on 20 December 1986 in Benin City and hailed from Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. He attended Ebenezer Nursery and Primary School llorin from 1992 – 1998 where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate, thereafter, he proceeded to Nigerian Military School Zaria from 1999 – 2004 for his West African School Certificate. The late senior officer was granted Regular Combatant Commission on 17 September 2011 in the rank of second lieutenant. He was of Nigerian Army Infantry Corps and rose to the rank of Major effective 8 July 2020. Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni died on 13 August 2023.
2 The late senior officer has attended several courses and performed credibly, notable amongst are; Young Officer’s Course Infantry, Basic Airborne and Rigger Course, Platoon Commander Battle Course in the United Kingdom, Ranger and Special Purpose Commando Course in Belarus, Green Barret Special Forces Course in the United States of America, Counter Terrorist Course in South Africa and Junior Staff Course. During his Junior Staff Course, he was remarked as a smart, energetic and hardworking officer who exhibited good military bearing and leadership qualities worthy of praise.
3. Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni proved his mettle as a professional soldier while in Service and held several appointments. Notably are, Platoon Commander 72 Special Forces
Battalion, Company Second in Command Armed Forces Special Forces Battalion, Second in Command Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Battalion. As Platoon Commander in 72 Special Forces Battalion, he was described as a very hardworking officer whose personal integrity was exemplary. As Second in Command Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Battalion, he exhibited high sense of commitment and intelligence in discharge of his basic responsibilities and assigned task. His combat operations capability was impeccable and outstanding. He demonstrated an awesome tactical knowledge and good administration which kept his subordinates always in high morale and in turn yielded several operational successes.
4. The late senior officer was a brilliant, resourceful and hardworking officer. He was a disciplined, confident, diligent and professional officer with impeccable integrity and a consistent will to undertake additional tasks.. He was very patriotic and left marks of excellence everywhere he served. He was a forthright gentleman with vast experience and ability to impart knowledge. He had remarkable conduct and an overwhelming moral standard. In recognition of his distinguished service to the Nation, he was bestowed with the following decorations: River Niger Star, Passed Junior Staff Course, Golden Jubilee Medal, Centenary Medal and General Operations Medal.
5. It is said that from dust we came and unto dust we shall return Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni has bowed to Mother Earth. His death is a great loss to his family, the Nigerian Army and the Nation in general. We love you but God loves you more. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, here lies on this day 25 August 2023, 3. the body of Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni a gallant professional soldier, a gentleman officer and a worthy son of Nigeria. Late Major Segun Abiodun Oni Adieu. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen!
LATE FLIGHT LIEUTENANT ALFRED ANTHONY DURYUMSU (NAF/4481)
1. Late Flight Lieutenant Alfred Anthony Seth Duryumsu was born on 19 February 1995 at Dengi. He hailed from Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Nigerian Defence Academy 64 Regular Course on 22 September 2012 and commissioned Pilot Officer on 16 September 2017. He was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant on 22 September 2022. He held a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the Nigerian Defence Academy.Kaduna.
2. The late officer had attended several courses including the Primary Flying Training at 401 Flying Training School Kaduna, Flight Safety Officers’ Course at the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Safety Kaduna and Basic Helicopter Flying Training in USA. Similarly, he attended the MI-171 Helicopter Conversion Course, MI- 171E Co-Pilot Training at 201 Composite Group Bauchi, Air to Ground Integration Specialist and Qualification Course in Kaduna. Additionally, the late officer had undergone the Air to Ground Tactical Communication Course at Army War College Nigeria, Helicopter
Instructor Pilot Training at International Helicopter Flying School, Enugu and MI-171E Recurrency Simulation Training at Czech Republic.
Until his demise, the officer had served in 401 Flying Training School as a Student Pilot, 201 Composite Group, Bauchi as well as 115 Special Operations Group, and Nigerian Air Force Reference Hospital, Port Harcourt as a squadron pilot and safety officer, respectively. He was a brilliant, intelligent and highly resourceful officer with strong leadership skill who had shown high level of initiative in the performance of his official duties. He was diligent and had demonstrated high level of expertise and professionalism as a pilot. He was highly dedicated, resourceful and gallant officer who had actively participated in military operations including Operations HADARIN DAJI, HADIN KAI, WHIRL PUNCH, SAFE HAVEN amongst others. The late Flight Lieutenant Duryumsu was single and he loved flying, reading, travelling and badminton.
4. Late Flight Lieutenant Anthony Duryumsu will be sorely missed by all for his gallantry, courage and invaluable contributions to towards a safe and secure Nigeria. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
LATE FLIGHT LIEUTENANT IBRAHIM ABUBAKAR ADAMU (NAF/4521)
1. Late Flight Lieutenant Ibrahim Abubakar Adamu was born on 19 September 1993 at Burra. He hailed from Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Nigerian Defence Academy 64 Regular Course on 22 September 2012 and commissioned Pilot Officer on 16 September 2017. He was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant on 22 reading. September 2022. He held a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical/Electronics) degree 4. from Nigerian Defence Academy.
2. The late officer had attended several courses including the Primary Flying Training at 401 Flying Training School Kaduna, Flight Safety Officers Course at the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Safety Kaduna and Instrument Rating Course at the United States of America. Similarly, he attended the MI-171 Helicopter Air Training Course at Czech Republic, MI-171E Co-Pilot Training at 201 Composite Group as well as the MI-171E Recurrency Simulation Training at Czech Republic.
3. The late officer served at 401 Flying Training School Kaduna as a Student Pilot, 303 Medium Airlift Group Ilorin as Administrative/Operations Officer. Equally, late Fight Lieutenant Adamu served at 201 Composite Group, Bauchi and 115 Special Operations Group, Port Harcourt as a Squadron Pilot. Late Flight Lieutenant Adamu was a highly focused, intelligent and goal- oriented officer who would go extra mile to achieve result. He was a sincere, humble and result-oriented officer who believed in team work. He was highly resourceful and determined officer who had actively participated in military operations including Operations HADARIN DAJI, HADIN KAI. WHIRL PUNCH, SAFE HAVEN amongst others. In the course of his military career, he had displayed a high level of professionalism as a pilot. He was a gentle man officer and highly religious who had memorized the Holy Quran. The late Flight Lieutenant Adamu was married and blessed with a son. He loved travelling and Late Flight Lieutenant Ibrahim Adamu will be sorely missed by all for his gallantry. courage and invaluable contributions to towards a safe and secure Nigeria. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and may the Almighty forgive all his shortcomings.
LATE LIEUTENANT GBENGA MICHAEL ODUSAMI (N/17314)
1. Late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami was born on 20 May 1993 in Lagos and hailed from Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State. He obtained his Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree in Chemistry from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 2018.The late officer was granted Regular Combatant Commission as a member of Regular Course 65 on 6 October 2018 in the rank of second lieutenant. He was of the Nigerian Army Infantry and was recently promoted captain effective 21 September 2023. Until his death, he was serving at Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Brigade from 19 October 2022. Late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami died on 13 August 2023.
2. The late officer has attended several courses and performed creditably. Some of the courses include Special Counter Terrorist Training in Pakistan, Young Officers’ Course (Infantry), Company Amphibious Operations Course and Basic Airborne Course. During his Company Amphibious Operations Course, he was said to be a verified strong swimmer where he maintained his Class One rating throughout the course with ease. He was described as a disciplined and unassuming officer in his Young Officers’ Course report which was confirmed during his Basic Airborne Course. He successfully went through the rigorous ground training and also satisfied the 5 airborne jumps requirement to earn the Nigerian Army prestigious airborne badge.
3. Late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami proved his mettle as a professional soldier as a Platoon Commander at 103 Battalion where he was found to be a focused and hardworking officer with a high sense of military bearing. He was noted to be proactive in identifying and assessing security challenges in his area of responsibilities. He was also a Platoon Commander in 153 Task Force Battalion where he was noted with an exceptionally high ability for navigation and map reading which he brought to bear during operations.As a Platoon August Commander in Defence Headquarters Special Forces Battalion, he conducted several operations leading to the neutralisation and capture of several bandits and paid the supreme price in one of such operations.
4. The late officer was a brilliant, resourceful, hardworking, disciplined, confident, diligent and professional officer with impeccable integrity and a consistent will to undertake additional tasks. He was very patriotic and left marks of excellence everywhere he served. He was a forthright gentleman and an Infantry officer per excellence with vast experience and ability to impart knowledge. He had remarkable conduct and an overwhelming moral standard.
5. It is said that from dust we came and unto dust we shall return. Late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami has bowed to Mother Earth. His death is a great loss to his family, the Nigerian Army and the Nation in general. We love you but God loves you more. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, here lies on this day 25 August 2023, the body of late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami, a gallant professional soldier, a gentleman officer and worthy son of Nigeria. Late Lieutenant Gbenga Michael Odusami, Adieu. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.Amen!
LATE LIEUTENANT USMAN SHEHU ALKALI (N/18250)
1. Late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali was born on 25 March 1978 in Gombe and hailed from Gombe Local Government Area of Gombe State. He attended Talo Waziri Primary School and Government Teachers’ College where he obtained his Primary School Leaving Certificate and Secondary School Certificate in 1990 and 1996 respectively. He was granted Executive Commission as a member of Executive Course 1/2020 on 9 May 2020 in the rank of Lieutenant. The late officer obtained his National Diploma in Public Administration from Kogi State Polytechnic in 2014. He was of the Nigerian Army Infantry. Until his death, he was serving at 45 Battalion since 31 January 2022. Late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali died on 13 2023.
2. The late officer has attended the Young Officers’ Course (Infantry) where he performed creditably. During the course, he was described as a hardworking and unassuming officer who made positive contributions to classroom discussions and outdoor exercises. Though quiet in disposition, he had a good understanding of the use of English and adequately expressed himself well. He carried out his responsibilities with high sense of commitment and proved to be physically fit as he completed the 10km mandatory Walking/Jogging and the Tactical Walk-back in good time after Exercise WAZOBIA HUNTER.As Ambush Commander in Exercise BAUTAN KASA, he effectively played his roles while exhibiting utmost sense of responsibility.
3. Late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali proved his mettle as a professional soldier as a Platoon Commander at 146 Battalion where he exhibited a good level of commitment to duty as he treated all assigned tasks with the desired urgency. He proved to be a well groomed Infantry officer with sound military bearing. He was also a Platoon Commander in 45 Battalion where he was described as a disciplined, hardworking and courageous officer and was observed to be committed to duties. He participated actively in numerous operations conducted by his Battalion in Rafi, Mariga and Munya Local Government Areas. He led several fighting patrols to Kagara and environs to help his Battalion in the domination of its area of operations.
4. The late officer was a brilliant, resourceful, hardworking, disciplined, confident, diligent and professional officer with impeccable integrity and a consistent will to undertake additional tasks. He was very patriotic and left marks of excellence everywhere he served. He was a forthright gentleman and an Infantry officer per excellence. He had remarkable conduct and an overwhelming moral standard.
5. It is said that from dust we came and unto dust we shall return. Late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali has bowed to Mother Earth. His death is a great loss to his family, the Nigerian Army and the Nation in general. We love you but God loves you more. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, here lies on this day 25 August 2023, the body of late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali, a gallant professional soldier, a gentleman officer and worthy son of Nigeria. Late Lieutenant Usman Shehu Alkali,Adieu.
6. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen!
LATE 02NA/51/512 SERGEANT FAROUK MOHAMMED
1. Late Sgt Farouk Mohammed hailed from Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. He was born into the family of Alhaji Farouk on 25 May 1982. He was enlisted Into the Nigerian Army as a member of 51 Regular Intake in year 2002 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Mohammed attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification of Special Weapon X2.
2. His last unit in the NA was 26 Bn in Sokoto and served the NA for a period of 21 years. He
children. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Allah forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 03NA/53/2083 CORPORAL IBRAHIM GARBA
1. Late Cpl Ibrahim Garba hailed from Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. He was born on 14 October 1987. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 53 Regular Intake in 2003 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Garba attended various courses commensurate with his rank.
2. His last unit in the NA was DHQ Gar in Abuja and served the NA for a period of 20 years. He was a devoted Christian and happily married with children. May his gentle soul rest In perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 09NA/64/4275 CORPORAL CHIROMA POGUYAMTA
1. Late Cpl Chiroma Poguyamta hailed from Borno State. He was born into the family of Mr Chiroma on 15 April 1987. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 64 Regular Intake in year 2009 and posted to the Infantry Corps. Chiroma attended various courses commensurate to his rank.
2. His last unit in the NA was 192 Bn in Owode and served the NA for a period of 13 years. He was a devoted chiristian and happily married with children. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 11NA/66/10694 CORPORAL ADAMA ISSAC
1. Late Cpl Adamu Isaac hailed from Igalamela Local Government Area of Kogi State. He was born into the family of Mr Adamu on 28 September 1989. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 66 Regular Intake in 2011 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Isaac attended various courses commensurate with his rank.
2. His last unit in the NA was 18 Bn in Sokoto and served the NA for a period of II years. He was a devoted Christian and happily married with children. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly
LATE 11NA/66/11292 CORPORAL HARUNA JAMILU
1. Late Cpl Haruna Jamilu hailed from Hadeja Local Government Area of Jigawa State. He was born into the family of Mallam Haruna on 3 September 1991. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 66 Regular Intake in year 2011 and posted to the Nigerian Army Armour Corps. Jamilu attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification of Special 2. Forces XI.
2. His last unit in the NA was 242 Recce Bn in Monguno and served the NA for a period of 11 years. He was a devoted Muslim and happily married with children. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 12NA/68/5890 CORPORAL SAMAILA BASHIRU
1. Late Cpl Samaila Bashiru hailed
Bagwai Local Government Area of Kano State. He was born into the family of Alhaji Samaila on 13 July 1990. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 68 Regular Intake in 2012 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Bashiru attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification of Watermanship XI.
2. His last unit in the NA was 4 Demo Bn in Jaji and served the NA for a period of 11 years. He was a devoted Muslim and happily married with children. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE ABLE REGULATOR SULEIMAN MAHMUD KAILANI OFFICIAL NUMBER-X14168
Late Able Regulator Suleiman Mahmud Kailani X14168 was born to the family of Mr Suleiman Kailani on 10 May 1992 in Garku Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. He attended Trust Academy Primary School Garaku from September 1998 July 2003. – Thereafter, he proceeded to Government Secondary School Aloce, Akwanga Local Government Area from 2008-2011. In his pursuit of knowledge, he also attended Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Late Able Regulator Suleiman Mahmud Kailani’s passion for the military was his motivation for joining the Nigerian Navy on 9 July 2012. Accordingly, he underwent the Basic Military Training at Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) Batch 21 in Onne Port Harcourt, Rivers State. On successful completion of the Basic training, he served both onboard and ashore. Some of the ships he served are Naval Unit Abuja, Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and Nigerian Navy Ship WEY from where he was drafted to Defence Special Force and subsequently deployed for OPERATION WHIRL PUNCH in Bida, Niger State where he met his untimely death.
LATE NAF19/35900 CORPORAL JAURO AMOS
1. Late Corporal Jauro Amos was born on 15 November 1995. He hailed from Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State. He was recruited into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Basic Military Training Course 40/2019 on 19 August 2019 and allotted Regiment specialty on completion of his Basic Military Training.
2. Until his demise, the airman had served in 213 Forward Operations Base Katsina, Air Force Military School Jos, 371 Nigerian Air Force Detachment Warri, (now 320 Forward Operations Base), 25 Force Protection Wing Kerang, Defence Headquarters Operation Thunder Strike (Special Operations Forces). He was a disciplined, determined and courageous airman who had participated actively in many military operations. As a Special Force personnel, his proficiency in weapon handling and marksmanship made him stand out among his peers. Late Corporal Jauro Amos was single. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
LATE 12NA/68/5192 LANCE CORPORAL SUNDAY OKOPI
1. Late LCpl Sunday Okopi hailed from Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State. He was born into the family of Mr Sunday on 25 February 1992. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 68 Regular Intake in year 2012 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Okopi attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification of Band Al.
2. His last unit in the NA was 4 Demo Bn in Jaji and served the NA for a period of 11 years. He was a devoted Christian. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive
all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 13NA/70/3552 LANCE CORPORAL
EKPEYONG EDET
1. Late LCpl Ekpeyong Edet hailed from Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State. He was born into the family of Mr Ekpeyong on 02 July 1993. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 70 Regular Intake in year 2013 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Edet attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification ofWatermanship X2.
2. His last unit in the NA was 4 Demo Bn in Jaji and served the NA for a period of 9 years. He was a devoted Christian. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE NAF13/28034 LANCE CORPORAL ALARIBE DANIEL NNAMDI
1. Late Lance Corporal Alaribe Daniel Nnamdi was born on 15 December 1993. He hailed from Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State. He was recruited into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Basic Military Training Course 32/2014 on 15 August 2014 and allotted Aircraft Technician as a trade.
2. Until his demise, the airman served in 115 Special Operations Group Port Harcourt and 201 Composite Group Bauchi. He was a very loyal, diligent and very hardworking aircraft technician who would give his best without complain. He had participated in numerous military operations as a flight technician on the MI-171E helicopter across the country. Late Lance Corporal Alaribe Daniel Nnamdi was married with a son. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
LATE NAF14/28578 LCPL BRIGGS STEPHEN
1. Late Lance Corporal Briggs Stephen was born on September 22, 1995. He hailed from Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State. He was recruited into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Basic Military Training Course 34/2015 on 14 June 2015 and allotted Aircraft Technician as a trade. Until his demise, the airman had served in 115 Special Operations Group, Port Harcourt, 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja Lagos as well as 413 Force Protection Group, Kaduna. He was a highly disciplined, very hardworking and calm airman. He participated actively in various aircraft maintenance and military operations across the country as an aircraft technician. The late Lance Corporal Briggs Stephen was single. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
LATE 16NA/75/1484 LANCE CORPORAL YAKUBU AYUBA
1. Late LCpl Yakubu Ayuba hailed from Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State. He was born into the family of Alhaji Yakubu on 02 March 1994. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 75 Regular Intake in year 2016 and posted to the Nigerian Army Signal Corps. Ayuba attended various courses commensurate to his rank where he attained a course trade classification of Radio Operator B3.
2. His last unit in the NA was 54 Signal Bde in Enugu and served the NA for a period of seven years. He was a devoted Muslim. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 16NA/75/4442 LANCE CORPORAL NURA MOHAMMED
1. Late LCpl Nura Mohammed hailed from Gabasawa Local Government Area of Kano State. He was born into the family of Alhaji Mohammed on November 3, 1997. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 75 Regular Intake in year 2016 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Nura attended various courses commensurate with his rank.
2. His last unit in the NA was 6 Div Gar in Port Harcourt and served the NA for a period of seven years. He was a devoted Muslim. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 20NA/79/4397 PRIVATE HABIB ALIYU
1. Late Pte Habib Aliyu hailed from Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State. He was born into the family of Mallam Habib on January 9, 1999. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 79 Regular Intake in 2020 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Aliyu attended various courses commensurate to his rank
2. His last unit in the NA was 2 Bn and served the NA for a period of three years. He was a devoted Muslim. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE 20NA/79/4412 PRIVATE TANKO WAJE
1. Late Pte Tanko Waje hailed from Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. He was born into the family of Mallam Waje on September 6, 2000. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Army as a member of 79 Regular Intake in 2020 and posted to the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps. Tanko attended various courses commensurate with his rank.
2. His last unit in the NA was 2 Bn and served the NA for a period of three years. He was a devoted Muslim. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace and May Almighty forgive all his shortcomings accordingly.
LATE NAF17/33175 AIR CRAFTMAN ABUBAKAR ABDULRAHAMAN
1. Late Aircraftman Abubakar Abdulrahaman was born on February 4, 1999. He hailed from Dandi Local Government Area of Kebbi State. He was recruited into the Nigerian Air Force as a member of Basic Military Training Course 38/2017 on February 2, 2018 and allotted Regiment Specialty as a trade.
2. Until his demise, the airman had served in the following units, 201 Composite Group Bauchi, 407 Air Combat Training Group, Kainji, National Air Defence Corp, Lagos, 320 Forward Operations Bara, Warr and Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces (Operation Thunder Strike). He was a highly disciplined, smart and well behaved airman. He was a calm, very hardworking and highly religious airman. As a Special Force personnel, his proficiency in weapon handling and marksmanship made him stand out among his peers. The late Aircraftman Abubakar Abdulrahaman was single. His death is a great loss to the Nation and the Nigerian Air Force family. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
News
Kogi Enforcing Ban on Trailer Parks from October 29 – Fanwo
The decision followed credible intelligence reports that some trailer parks in the state, particularly those located at Zariagi and Osara, have become hideouts for criminal elements.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced that strict enforcement of the ban on trailer parks across the state will start effective from October 29, 2025.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who disclosed this in Lokoja, said that the decision followed credible intelligence reports that some trailer parks in the state, particularly those located at Zariagi and Osara, have become hideouts for criminal elements.
He emphasised that the government cannot fold its arms while such facilities are used to compromise the security of lives and property in the state.“
The directive of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, is clear. From October 29, 2025, the state will begin full enforcement of the ban on trailer parks.
Intelligence at our disposal shows that some of these parks, especially those at Zariagi and Osara, harbor criminals who threaten the peace and security of our people.
This is a proactive and preventive measure. We have decided to move ahead of the criminals instead of lamenting after lives might have been lost.
Government will not allow that to continue,” Fanwo said.
He revealed that security agencies across the state have been strictly briefed to enforce the order without compromise, stressing that violators will face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner further noted that the enforcement is backed by law, as Governor Ododo has already signed into law a bill banning the movement of articulated trucks during the day.
Fanwo urged operators to comply before the enforcement date and called on residents to support the government’s action, stressing that protecting lives and securing communities remain the top priority of the present administration.
International
Deported Nigerian Claims Ghanaian Officials Abandoned Him in Togo

A Nigerian man deported from the United States to Ghana has alleged that he is now stranded in Togo after Ghanaian authorities secretly transferred him and five others across the border without informing Togolese officials.
According to on Wednesday, the man, who spoke anonymously, said he was initially held at a military camp in Ghana after being deported last month along with other West African nationals. He claims Ghanaian officials promised to relocate them to better accommodation but instead covertly transported them into neighbouring Togo via a back route.
“They did not take us through the main border; they took us through the back door. They paid the police there and dropped us in Togo,” he said.
The group, which includes three Nigerians, a Liberian, and others, is now sheltering in a hotel in Lomé, the Togolese capital. None of them have valid documentation, and they are relying on hotel staff to help receive financial aid from relatives abroad.
“We’re struggling to survive in Togo without any documentation,” the man told the BBC. “None of us has family here. We’re just stuck.”
He said life in the Ghanaian military camp was “deplorable,” citing poor water, lack of medical care, and harsh conditions. After complaints to authorities, the group was told they would be moved to a hotel. Instead, they were driven to the Togo border and allegedly coerced under false pretenses.
“When we arrived [at the border], we asked what we were doing there. They told us we needed to sign some paperwork to go to a hotel. We didn’t sign anything,” he said.
The man also shared the personal toll of his deportation. “I have a house in the US where my kids live. How am I supposed to pay the mortgage? My kids can’t see me. It’s just so stressful.”
He is reportedly a member of the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement, an organisation campaigning for an independent Yoruba nation in south-west Nigeria. He fears persecution if forced to return to Nigeria and claims he had court-ordered protection in the US, which should have prevented his deportation. The US government has not publicly addressed this claim.
The deportee was part of a larger group of West Africans — including citizens of Liberia, The Gambia, and Togo — who were flown from US detention facilities to Ghana last month. Human rights lawyers representing the group have filed legal action against both the US and Ghana, citing violations of international protection and due process.
Ghanaian officials, including Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, have defended their decision, saying Ghana accepted the deportees based on “pan-African empathy” and denied receiving any financial compensation.
However, the deal — announced by President John Mahama — has drawn criticism from opposition lawmakers, who are now calling for its suspension until it is properly reviewed and ratified by parliament. Despite the controversy, the government is reportedly preparing to receive an additional 40 deportees.
As the legal battle unfolds and diplomatic pressure mounts, the fate of the stranded deportees in Togo remains uncertain.
News
Nigeria’s 65th Independence: Tinubu’s full speech

NATIONAL BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY BOLA AHNED TINUBU, GCFR, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE 65TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF NIGERIA, OCTOBER 1, 2025
Fellow Nigerians,
Today marks the 65th anniversary of our great nation’s Independence. As we reflect on the significance of this day and our journey of nationhood since October 1, 1960, when our founding fathers accepted the instruments of self-government from colonial rule, let us remember their sacrifice, devotion, and grand dream of a strong, prosperous, and united Nigeria that will lead Africa and be the beacon of light to the rest of the world.
Our founding heroes and heroines—Herbert Macaulay, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Margaret Ekpo, Anthony Enahoro, Ladoke Akintola, Michael Okpara, Aminu Kano, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and other nationalists—believed it was Nigeria’s manifest destiny to lead the entire black race as the largest black nation on earth.
For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them. In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development. Our economy has experienced significant growth since 1960.
Although, it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognise and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960. At Independence, Nigeria had 120 secondary schools with a student population of about 130,000. Available data indicate that, as of year 2024, there were more than 23,000 secondary schools in our country. At Independence, we had only the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology as the two tertiary institutions in Nigeria. By the end of last year, there were 274 universities, 183 Polytechnics, and 236 Colleges of Education in Nigeria, comprising Federal, State, and private institutions. We have experienced a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life since Independence – in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, aviation and defence, among others.
Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times in its 65 years of nationhood, as is normal for every nation and its people. We fought a bitter and avoidable civil war, experienced military dictatorships, and lived through major political crises. In all these, we weathered every storm and overcame every challenge with courage, grit, and uncommon determination. While our system and ties that bind us are sometimes stretched by insidious forces opposed to our values and ways of life, we continue to strive to build a more perfect union where every Nigerian can find better accommodation and find purpose and fulfilment.
Fellow Compatriots, this is the third time I will address you on our independence anniversary since I assumed office as your President on May 29, 2023. In the last 28 months of my administration, like our founding fathers and leaders who came before me, I have committed myself irrevocably to the unfinished nation-building business.
Upon assuming office, our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment that had impaired real growth. As a new administration, we faced a simple choice: continue business as usual and watch our nation drift, or embark on a courageous, fundamental reform path. We chose the path of reform. We chose the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today. Less than three years later, the seeds of those difficult but necessary decisions are bearing fruit.
In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority. At the same time, the masses received little or nothing from our Commonwealth. Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure, such as roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes. These initiatives will generally improve Nigerians’ quality of life. As a result of the tough decisions we made, the Federal and State governments, including Local Governments, now have more resources to take care of the people at the lower level of the ladder, to address our development challenges.
Fellow Nigerians, we are racing against time. We must build the roads we need, repair the ones that have become decrepit, and construct the schools our children will attend and the hospitals that will care for our people. We have to plan for the generations that will come after us. We do not have enough electricity to power our industries and homes today, or the resources to repair our deteriorating roads, build seaports, railroads, and international airports comparable to the best in the world, because we failed to make the necessary investments decades ago. Our administration is setting things right.
I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour.
Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results. The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%—Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund. Inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest level in three years. The administration is working diligently to boost agricultural production and ensure food security, reducing food costs.
In the last two years of our administration, we have achieved 12 remarkable economic milestones as a result of the implementation of our sound fiscal and monetary policies:
We have attained a record-breaking increase in non-oil revenue, achieving the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. In September 2025 alone, we raised N3.65 trillion, 411% higher than the amount raised in May 2023.
We have restored Fiscal Health: Our debt service-to-revenue ratio has been significantly reduced from 97% to below 50%. We have paid down the infamous “Ways and Means” advances that threatened our economic stability and triggered inflation. Following the removal of the corrupt petroleum subsidy, we have freed up trillions of Naira for targeted investment in the real economy and social programmes for the most vulnerable, as well as all tiers of government.
We have a stronger foreign Reserve position than three years ago. Our external reserves increased to $42.03 billion this September—the highest since 2019.
Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent. The ratio is expected to increase further when the new tax law takes effect in January. The tax law is not about increasing the burden on existing taxpayers but about expanding the base to build the Nigeria we deserve and providing tax relief to low-income earners.
We are now a Net Exporter: Nigeria has recorded a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home. Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3% in Q2 2025 to ₦7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years. Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173%. Non-oil exports, as a component of our export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent. This signals that we are diversifying our economy and foreign exchange sources outside oil and gas.
Oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day from barely one million in May 2023. The increase occurred due to improved security, new investments, and better stakeholder management in the Niger Delta. Furthermore, the country has made notable advancements by refining PMS domestically for the first time in four decades. It has also established itself as the continent’s leading exporter of aviation fuel.
The Naira has stabilised from the turbulence and volatility witnessed in 2023 and 2024. The gap between the official rate and the unofficial market has reduced substantially, following FX reforms and fresh capital and remittance inflows. The multiple exchange rates, which fostered corruption and arbitrage, are now part of history. Additionally, our currency rate against the dollar is no longer determined by fluctuations in crude oil prices.
Under the social investment programme to support poor households and vulnerable Nigerians, N330 billion has been disbursed to eight million households, many of whom have received either one or two out of the three tranches of the N25,000 each.
Coal mining recovered dramatically from a 22% decline in Q1 to 57.5% growth in Q2, becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors. The solid mineral sector is now pivotal in our economy, encouraging value-added production of minerals extracted from our soil.
The administration is expanding transport infrastructure across the country, covering rail, roads, airports, and seaports. Rail and water transport grew by over 40% and 27%, respectively. The 284-kilometre Kano-Kastina-Maradi Standard Gauge rail project and the Kaduna-Kano rail line are nearing completion. Work is progressing well on the legacy Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway. The Federal Executive Council recently approved $3 billion to complete the Eastern Rail Project.
The world is taking notice of our efforts. Sovereign credit rating agencies have upgraded their outlook for Nigeria, recognising our improved economic fundamentals. Our stock market is experiencing an unprecedented boom, rising from an all-share index of 55,000 points in May 2003 to 142,000 points as of September 26, 2025.
At its last MPC meeting, the Central Bank slashed interest rates for the first time in five years, expressing confidence in our country’s macroeconomic stability.
SECURITY:
We are working diligently to enhance national security, ensuring our economy experiences improved growth and performance. The officers and men of our armed forces and other security agencies are working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep us safe. They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram Terror in North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in South East and banditry and kidnapping. We must continue to celebrate their gallantry and salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation. Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in North-West and North-East, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes.
YOUTH:
I have a message for our young people. You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country. You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector. Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high. We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits. Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions. As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep allowance stood at N44.7 billion.
Credicorp, another initiative of our administration, has granted 153,000 Nigerians N30 billion affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, home upgrades, digital devices, and more.
YouthCred, which I promised last June, is a reality, with tens of thousands of NYSC members now active beneficiaries of consumer credit for resettlement.
Under our Renewed Hope Agenda, we promised to build a Nigeria where every young person, regardless of background, has an equitable opportunity to access a better future—thus, the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme. The Bank of Industry is driving the programme, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, the French Development Agency, and the Islamic Development Bank. This initiative is at the cusp of implementation. Over the last two years, we have collaborated with our partners to launch the programme, supporting our young builders and dreamers in the technology and creative sectors.
A MESSAGE OF HOPE
Fellow Nigerians, I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with some temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government. However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option. Our macro-economic progress has proven that our sacrifices have not been in vain. Together, we are laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand.
The accurate measure of our success will not be limited to economic statistics alone, but rather in the food on our families’ tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities. Let me assure you of our administration’s determination to ensure that the resources we have saved and the stability we have built are channelled into these critical areas. Today, the governors at the state level, and the local government autonomy are yielding more developments.
Therefore, on this 65th Anniversary of Our Independence, my message is hope and a call to action. The federal government will continue to do its part to fix the plumbing in our economy. Now, we must all turn on the taps of productivity, innovation, and enterprise, just like the Ministry of Interior has done with our travel passports, by quickening the processing. In this regard, I urge the sub-national entities to join us in nation-building. Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes.
Finally, let all hands be on deck. Let us believe, once more, in the boundless potential of our great nation.
With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.
Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Amen.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Presidential Villa,
Abuja.
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