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COAS Urges New Army Recruits to Take Firm Action Against Insecurity

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on graduating recruits under the Restore Hope programme to act decisively against bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups undermining national security.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for the 90 Regular Recruit Intake held on Thursday, 18 June 2026, at the Depot Nigerian Army Shooting Range in Zaria, he described Nigeria’s current security situation as complex and challenging, marked by terrorism, banditry, and other asymmetric threats that continue to cause suffering and destruction.

He stressed that modern security challenges require more than conventional military responses, noting that soldiers must combine courage with intelligence, discipline, and strategic thinking. He added that the military must adapt to unconventional threats rather than rely solely on traditional methods.

While urging the recruits—who are set for formal induction in two days—to remain professional, disciplined, and firm in dealing with criminals, he also emphasized strict adherence to rules of engagement and military ethics.

Shaibu congratulated the graduates for completing intensive and modern training, assuring them that the Nigerian Army has introduced improved combat systems and is working to acquire more equipment to enhance operational effectiveness and safety.

He explained that the Restore Hope initiative is designed to build discipline, resilience, professionalism, and loyalty among soldiers while preparing them to respond effectively to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

The statement was issued by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations.

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Nigeria’s Forgotten Aircraft Graveyard: The Rise and Fall of Okada Air

At Benin City Airport in Edo State lies a striking reminder of Nigeria’s aviation history—several abandoned aircraft that once belonged to Okada Air, the airline founded by Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Okada Air grew into one of Nigeria’s largest private airlines. Known for its affordable fares and extensive domestic network, it became a familiar name to travelers across the country and was widely recognized for making air travel more accessible.

Many of the aircraft associated with the airline are BAC One-Eleven (BAC 1-11) jets, easily identified by their twin rear-mounted engines and distinctive T-tail design. These British-built aircraft were a major part of the airline’s fleet during its peak years.

Okada Air ceased operations in 1997, and many of its aircraft remained parked at Benin Airport for years after the airline shut down. While various explanations have been offered for the company’s collapse, the rusting planes themselves have become enduring symbols of a once-ambitious era in Nigerian aviation.

Over the years, authorities have taken steps to remove some abandoned aircraft from airports, but several of the old Okada Air frames have continued to attract attention from aviation enthusiasts and historians.

Today, the site serves as a powerful reminder that Nigeria has long been home to bold entrepreneurial ventures and major private-sector achievements. The story of Okada Air reflects both the heights the country’s aviation industry once reached and the challenges it later faced.

Nigerians have been doing big things for decades—this is just one remarkable chapter in that history.

FRSC Patrol Team Arrests Suspected “One Chance” Operatives, Recovers Stolen Phone in Ibadan

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced the arrest of suspected members of a “one chance” and phone-theft syndicate operating along the Eleyele–Ojoo axis of Ibadan, Oyo State.

According to the Corps, the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, 15 June 2026, during a routine patrol on the Babalegba–Eleyele–Ojoo route. Officers became suspicious after noticing a motorcycle rider chasing a Nissan Micra with registration number AJW 903XE while a female passenger raised an alarm that her mobile phone had been stolen inside the vehicle.

The patrol team quickly intercepted the vehicle and questioned its occupants. During the initial investigation, the driver, identified as Idowu Mukaila, reportedly claimed he could arrange for the recovery of the missing phone. Shortly afterward, another individual arrived and produced the stolen device, prompting officers to suspect the existence of a coordinated criminal network.

The suspects were immediately taken into custody, and the matter was reported to the appropriate authorities. The FRSC disclosed that officials of the Oyo State Park Management System (PMS) and Drivers’ Union indicated that both the vehicle and its driver had previously come under scrutiny following multiple complaints alleging involvement in phone theft and “one chance” operations within Ibadan.

After further questioning by senior FRSC officials, the case was transferred to the Nigeria Police Force’s Eleyele Division for detailed investigation and possible prosecution.

The FRSC said the successful interception highlights the importance of proactive patrol operations and collaboration among security agencies in improving public safety. The Corps also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, emphasizing that public cooperation is essential in making Nigerian roads safer and more secure.

Cc: Federal Road Safety Corps Nigeria