Connect with us

General

Osinbajo Tasks Military to Partner Private Sector on Research, Innovation

Published

on

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Vice President, Mr Yemi Osinbajo, has advised the Nigerian Armed Forces to partner with the private sector on research and innovation.

Mr Osinbajo gave this charge at the weekend during the combined passing out parade for cadets of 64 Regular Course (Army, Navy, Air Force) 65 Regular Course (Navy and Air Force) and Short Service Course 44 (Army) where he represented President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Vice President said crimes in the world have taken new turns and security operatives have to always be a step ahead of criminals, especially terrorists.

He said last week’s bombing in a London tube suggest that tutorials for making the explosive devices used are available on the internet.

“How can the military get ahead of the curve on communications in the age of the fast, cheap and available communication for all?” he asked, pointing out that, “We must also answer the question of how to defeat the ideologies that promote mindless killings and anarchy.”

He further said the swift evolution in suicide bombings is a perfect illustration of the nature of the threats that nations face today, unpredictable, asymmetric, constantly adapting to changing conditions, driven by a compulsive need to inflict maximum damage with minimal effort.

According to him, “This is therefore the question we ought to be asking ourselves: Are our Armed Forces evolving with a similar speed and urgency, are they adapting with a similar nimbleness? How do we evolve rules of engagement in asymmetric warfare situations? Should we be redefining the borders of the Geneva Convention in the light of military engagements with armed militant combatants? Can we observe the same human rights rules where suicide bombers and persons determined to die and take with them as many innocent lives as possible are the enemy we must confront? What are the borders of the right to privacy and freedom of expression on the internet? What is the responsibility of Nations of the world in policing the internet which has become a virtual training ground for much good and as much evil?”

Mr Osinbajo said, “But just as important as these issues around conflict are the issues around how the military can in the process of innovating or thinking through use science and technology to add real value to the society and nation it has sworn to defend.”

“Let me speak briefly about the relationship between the military and scientific innovation, and how both have historically shaped and influenced each other.

“Centuries ago, inventions like the wheel, and gunpowder, forever changed the nature of war. National armies wasted little time taking advantage of these innovations in the endless battle to gain an edge over existing and emerging enemies.

“In a similar manner, the military has also spearheaded technology and practices that civilians have latched on to, to alter human civilization as we know it. The one that comes to mind most readily is the Internet, originating from the 1960s Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) Project of the United States Department of Defense.

“Five decades on, the Internet has turned out to be perhaps the most definitive invention in the history of mankind, creating unprecedented social, economic and political opportunity. The American military has also been credited with the invention of GPS- Global Positioning System (GPS) now so common that every smartphone and cars use it to ascertain location.

“But this network of satellites was originally set up by the U.S. Department of Defense in the 1970s. President Ronald Reagan ordered GPS to be made available to civilians once it was completed, while President Bill Clinton later declared that the highest quality GPS signal should be available as well.

“How about RADAR? (an acronym for Radio Detection and Ranging,) this system uses radio waves to find speed, altitude, range, and direction of moving objects such as planes, ground vehicles, missiles, etc. Radar was developed before World War II for military purposes.

“Today, it’s used for a variety of purposes, both military and civilian, including air traffic control and weather forecasting. Inadvertently, it was discovered that microwaves transmitted from radar equipment during WWII could also cook food, which led to the post-war creation of the microwave oven.

“The use of Unmanned Aerial devices or drones today for surveillance, photography (and in Rwanda), the delivery of blood to rural medical facilities originated from the development of the devices by the military in the early 20th Century.

“The world I have just described is the one that today’s cadets are graduating into. Placed side-by-side with this contemporary context, the Cold War Era into which your predecessors – today’s Generals and Commanding Officers – graduated, almost feels like a model of orderliness and predictability.

“At this point let me say that I am pleased to note that the NDA has been positioning itself as a hub for innovation. I am already aware of inventions such as an Automated Pop-Up Target System, a Multi-Purpose Combat Mobile Robot, and a Perimeter Surveillance Robot, which the NDA has showcased at various science and technology exhibitions in the recent past. This is laudable and I urge you to sustain the culture.

“I would also like to urge you to collaborate more extensively with the private sector, for research and innovation. All around the country technology hubs are springing up that are attracting our Nigeria’s brightest talent, and breaking new technological ground. I am convinced that the military should make its presence felt in this area,” the Vice President said.

Modupe Gbadeyanka is a fast-rising journalist with Business Post Nigeria. Her passion for journalism is amazing. She is willing to learn more with a view to becoming one of the best pen-pushers in Nigeria. Her role models are the duo of CNN's Richard Quest and Christiane Amanpour.

General

Army Destroys 16 Illegal Refineries in Rivers, Bayelsa, Recovers Stolen Oil

Published

on

By Adedapo Adesanya

Troops of the Nigerian Army have destroyed 16 illegal refining sites in Rivers and Bayelsa states, while arresting 23 suspects and recovering massive volumes of stolen crude oil and refined products as part of ongoing efforts against crude oil theft and related crimes in the Niger Delta.

The operations, conducted by troops of the Nigerian Army 6 Division Port Harcourt, in conjunction with other security agencies between April 14 and 20, 2025, also led to the recovery of weapons, pumping equipment, wooden boats, and thousands of litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) known as diesel.

In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the troops deactivated four illegal refineries at Oando operated wellhead in Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State, recovering over 35,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 2,500 litres of refined AGO, pumping machines, and a wellhead valve.

According to the spokesperson, the illicit activity was being carried out using an 80-metre long pipe connected directly to the wellhead.

“These heinous crimes were perpetrated through the use of an 80 meters long pipe connected to the Wellhead used for siphoning crude oil,” he said.

Also in Bayelsa, troops intercepted tricycles transporting stolen petroleum products along the Gbarain–Zarama axis, arresting two suspects in connection with the theft.

“In Rivers and Abia States, clearance operations around the Imo River corridor led to the dismantling of six artisanal refineries, seizure of 1,100 sacks containing over 22,000 litres of stolen products, and confiscation of 30 drum pots and 24 drum receivers. These were recovered around Obuzor (Ukwa West LGA, Abia) and Okoloma (Oyigbo LGA, Rivers State).

“At Okrika Creek, troops acting on intelligence recovered a wooden boat loaded with 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil, suspected to have been illegally siphoned from the NNPC Jetty in Okrika. In Kula, Akuku-Toru LGA, three buyers and three sellers of stolen products were apprehended, leading to the seizure of three tugboats, a fibre boat, and over 1,500 litres of refined AGO.

“In Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA), a wooden boat filled with several sacks of stolen crude was intercepted at Obohia Road, while additional seizures were made at Okwuzi and Okarki Forest in Ahoada West LGA.

“In Delta State, troops busted a kidnappers’ hideout around Rhobot City, Asaba, and Iselle Azagba in Aniocha LGA. Two suspects were arrested and a cache of dangerous weapons recovered, including two pump-action rifles, a double-barrel gun, one dane gun, 56 cartridges, 13 cutlasses, charms, and cult regalia.

“Also in Warri South LGA, troops raided an illegal refining site, confiscating three cooking pots, an unspecified quantity of refined AGO, and three drums filled with over 600 litres of stolen crude oil.
“In Akwa Ibom State, the army maintained a strong operational presence to deter oil theft and other criminal activities.”

The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, visited troops’ locations in Bayelsa and Delta States, where he commended the soldiers and urged them to maintain the momentum.

“Your welfare will continue to receive the desired attention as you surge operations against economic saboteurs and associated crimes in the region,” he assured.

The Nigerian Army said the operations are part of a broader effort to dismantle oil theft networks and secure Nigeria’s economic assets in the Niger Delta.

Continue Reading

General

Without an Empty Grave, There is no Christian Faith—Apostle Flourish Peters

Published

on

Jesus + Nothing Worship

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

The Lead Pastor and Apostolic Head of the Love of God in Christ (LOGIC) Churches Global, Apostle Flourish Peters, has stressed the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ to the Christian faith.

Speaking at the church’s inaugural Jesus + Nothing Worship on Good Friday in Lagos, he informed the congregation that, “Without an empty grave, there is no Christian faith.”

“Our faith is fundamentally premised on this singular, undeniable truth – the empty grave. This is what distinguishes our faith; while over 4,000 religions exist, only one points to a vacated tomb.

“Ours is the unique faith where the very person we worship lives within us. We are truly elated that through the resounding success of Jesus + Nothing Worship, we were able to bring christocentric worship to the masses,” the cleric added.

Business Post reports that the programme, a powerful evening of gospel music, left attendees deeply moved and spiritually uplifted.

It served as a profound reminder of the sacrifice and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasising the core message that through a sober Friday came a Good Friday for all.

Several entertainers, including Timi Dakolo and Greatman Takit, alongside Neon Adejo, SMJ, Noble G, Steve Hills, Lily Perez, Joxie, Anderson Qozan, Pastor Victor Paul, Emeka Songz, Flo, Dorcas Moore, Magpsalms, Mera Owili, Gerald Bishung, Phebe Lion, Larry J and the Evolution Children’s Choir delivered soul-stirring performances that resonated with the central theme of redemption through Jesus Christ at the church’s headquarters in Lekki.

Apostle Peters said Jesus + Nothing Worship was an impactful success, declaring that it would become an annual event.

He emphasised that this worship session is intentionally focused on Jesus Christ, the message of salvation, and providing a vital platform to unveil the gospel talents within The LOGIC Church.

Jesus + Nothing Worship has been a truly unifying experience, allowing us to collectively focus on the profound significance of Jesus’ death and the abundant life we have in His resurrection.

“It is our vision to create a consistent platform where the power of music can amplify the core message of the Gospel and provide an opportunity for the incredible music ministers within our church to impact lives,” he stated.

Building on the momentum of the successful 2024 Jesus + Nothing Conference, the Jesus + Nothing Worship further solidified The LOGIC Church’s mission to cultivate a family centred on grace and faith, where the transformative Love of God in Christ is tangibly felt.

Continue Reading

General

Tinubu to Return to Nigeria Today After 19 Days Away

Published

on

Tinubu address nation

By Adedapo Adesanya

President Bola Tinubu will return to Nigeria today from his work visit to France, the presidency has said.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a post on his X handle on Monday.

President Tinubu left Nigeria on April 2, 2025, for Paris, France, on a short working visit. This means the President would have spent 19 days in the European nation if he arrives today.

According to the statement, President Tinubu used the retreat to review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary.

His latest trip had been faulted by major opposition leaders who criticised him for being away despite the rising insecurity in the country, especially in Benue and Plateau states, where scores of residents have been killed in attacks on several communities.

President Tinubu closest opponent at the 2023 presidential election and former Vice President, Mr Atiku Abubakar, asked him to end his trip to France and address the spate of insecurity in Nigeria.

Mr Atiku questioned Mr Tinubu’s continued stay in the European country despite the spate of killings across Nigeria.

“While Tinubu dines under chandeliers in the land of good governance, the country he governs is spiraling into chaos. Plateau has turned into a killing field — over 100 lives lost in relentless attacks,” his spokesman, Mr Paul Ibe, said in a statement on April 17.

Also, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, urged Mr Tinubu to suspend his France trip and urgently return to Nigeria to address the deteriorating security situation, particularly in Plateau and Benue states.

Continue Reading

Trending