By Our Correspondent
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the welfare and safety of Nigerian troops engaged in internal security operations across the country.
Speaking on Thursday at the inauguration of the Bola Tinubu Barracks in Abuja, the president emphasized the importance of adequate support for the military, stating, “Your welfare cannot and will not be compromised. We will continue to commit resources to improve your welfare and ensure you have what you need to fulfill your mandate. You are our heroes.”
Tinubu also urged troops to adopt a strong maintenance culture to preserve the facilities provided.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the accommodation deficit in the Nigerian Army, with over 40% of personnel still without housing.
He noted that the newly inaugurated barracks include 614 residential units for 170 officers and 444 soldiers, along with their families.
The facilities feature various accommodation types, worship centers, sports facilities, a powerhouse, and extensive infrastructure, including a perimeter fence, road networks, and water supply systems.
However, Gen. Oluyede described the project as only a fraction of the housing needs of the Nigerian Army in Abuja.

By Our Correspondent 

The residents of Ipoti-Ekiti have called on the Nigerian Army to reconsider its decision to relocate the 148 Battalion from the community, citing concerns over economic setbacks and perceived marginalization.

In a statement signed by Dr. (Hon.) Lai Oke, Mr. Adedayo Babajide, and Barrister Gbenga Awoyomi, the group, under the aegis of Ipoti Ekiti Patriotic Indigene, expressed shock at the decision communicated in a military memo dated January 13, 2025.

The statement highlighted that over a decade ago, the Nigerian Army acquired land in Ipoti-Ekiti for the barracks, constructed facilities, and commenced operations before withdrawing personnel last year without explanation.

The sudden announcement of the relocation to another town was described as unjustifiable, especially given the proximity of an existing barracks in Akure to Ikere-Ekiti.

The group noted a history of politically unfavorable decisions affecting Ipoti-Ekiti, including attempts to undermine its status as the headquarters of Irede LCDA in 2022.

They accused authorities of perpetuating marginalization and stifling the community’s development despite its consistent support for government policies.

Appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the National Assembly, and the Chief of Army Staff, the group urged the reversal of the relocation to foster fairness and unity.

They emphasized the need for equitable distribution of public institutions to prevent resentment and maintain communal harmony.

The statement concluded by urging swift intervention to restore the barracks, correcting what they termed a grave injustice against the people of Ipoti-Ekiti.

By Our Correspondent 

The Osun State Commandant of Amotekun Corps, Mr. Adekunle Omoyele, has reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to leveraging African science, commonly referred to as ‘juju,’ in its fight against banditry and crime.

Speaking to journalists in Osogbo, Omoyele stated that the incorporation of spiritual methods remains a deliberate and effective strategy for combating criminals, many of whom rely on similar forces for protection.

“Amotekun was founded on the principle of using African science alongside conventional methods to counter criminals who often use charms and incantations. We are spiritually and physically combat-ready,” he said.

He also called for the approval of sophisticated weapons for Amotekun personnel to match the firepower of bandits and armed robbers, emphasizing the need for a balance of force to ensure the corps’ effectiveness.

Omoyele announced plans to recruit 1,000 new personnel and upgrade logistics, with support from Governor Ademola Adeleke, while also refurbishing a world-class emergency center to monitor crime activities across major cities in the state.

“Criminals will find no haven in Osun State. We are determined to ensure the safety and security of our people,” he vowed.