The Nigerian Army has been awarded the title of Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025 by African Security Watch, marking a significant recognition of its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism across the continent. The honor was conferred on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja to Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had previously accepted the award on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia. The award highlights the Army's accomplishments in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-led campaigns, civil-military cooperation, force development, and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts have contributed to disrupting terrorist networks and enhancing both national and regional security. The Nigerian Army's success in counter-terrorism has been attributed to its strategic leadership and sustained commitment to maintaining order in regions plagued by insurgency and extremist activities. During the ceremony, Shaibu expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a tribute to the bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices of Nigerian Army personnel. He emphasized that the award reflects the dedication of officers and soldiers who continue to face security threats throughout the country. The Army chief also dedicated the award to those who lost their lives in service, acknowledging the unwavering support and sacrifice of their families. Shaibu reiterated the Army's determination to build upon its operational successes through intelligence-driven strategies, advanced training, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and improved welfare for personnel. He outlined plans to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force capable of addressing evolving security challenges and contributing to regional stability. Meanwhile, a tragic incident involving a senior military officer has raised concerns over security in Abuja. On Monday evening, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, a serving Nigerian Army intelligence officer, was fatally shot by armed assailants who attempted to kidnap him at his residence in the Kurudu area of Abuja. According to reports, the attackers opened fire as Ude exited his vehicle and tried to abduct him. Despite being outnumbered, Ude resisted the gunmen, ultimately preventing the abduction. However, the assailants shot him multiple times at close range, resulting in his death. The attack also injured his wife, driver, and a security guard, all of whom were hospitalized. The Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, though its spokesperson, Colonel Appolonia Anele, stated she would provide further information. The DIA later confirmed the killing, noting that the incident occurred around 10:45 p.m. on Monday, 27 July, and that security and law enforcement agencies are conducting a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Colonel Ude, who hailed from Enugu State, had served in key intelligence and counter-terrorism roles within the Nigerian military. He had participated in operations against insurgents in the northeastern region and had undertaken specialized assignments in Chad and France. His death comes amid a pattern of attacks targeting the Phase 5 Army Housing Estate in Kurudu, where numerous military personnel reside. This is not the first such incident; in January 2024, gunmen invaded the Phase 2 section of the estate, abducting the wife and an in-law of a resident, Cyril Adikwu, after a brief exchange of gunfire. The attackers reportedly demanded a ransom of N30 million for the victims' release. In April, the estate was targeted again, with suspected kidnappers attempting another attack. Security forces engaged the assailants in a gunfight, killing one suspect and thwarting the abduction. Investigations into these incidents have since been initiated. Abuja has experienced a surge in kidnapping attempts, particularly in peripheral communities, prompting increased security measures and the dismantling of several criminal networks. Authorities have intensified operations in the city, leading to the arrest of numerous suspects. The recent incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by organized crime and highlight the need for continued vigilance and robust security protocols. As investigations into Colonel Ude’s murder unfold, the Nigerian military faces the dual challenge of upholding its reputation as a formidable counter-terrorism force while addressing internal security threats that endanger its personnel.
6 reports
Premium Times NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 904 days agoA Nigerian Army colonel, Abdussalam Ude, was shot dead while resisting an abduction attempt by armed assailants at his residence in Kurudu, Abuja. The incident occurred on Monday evening, with reports indicating that the attackers opened fire as he exited his vehicle. Despite being outnumbered, Colonel Ude resisted the kidnappers, but they ultimately shot him multiple times at close range, killing him. His wife, driver, and a security guard sustained gunshot wounds and were hospitalized. The Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement yet, though its spokesperson confirmed investigations into the matter. Colonel Ude, known for his service in counter-terrorism and intelligence roles, was set to be promoted to brigadier general and was originally from Enugu State. His funeral was planned for Tuesday at the Mambilla Mosque in Abuja.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a violent crime involving a high-ranking military officer without overtly favoring any political side. It includes quotes from security sources and mentions ongoing investigations, maintaining neutrality in tone and framing.
Why factuality (85): The article explains the clearance of a Niger Republic resident from terror allegations, citing the findings of the military investigation. It matches the cross-source consensus and provides specific details about the individual and the process.
Why objectivity (90): The tone is neutral and factual, presenting the military's findings without emotional language or bias. It focuses on the procedural aspects of the clearance.
The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 908 days agoMilitary forces in Yobe State, Nigeria, arrested five suspected kidnappers during an intelligence-led operation in Jegalari Village on July 23, 2026. The operation, carried out by troops from the 233 Battalion under Operation HADIN KAI, resulted in the recovery of weapons including three AK-47 rifles, one pistol, ammunition, and mobile phones linked to the suspects' alleged criminal activities. The suspects are in military custody for further investigation into kidnapping and related offenses. The military emphasized the operation's role in disrupting criminal networks in the North-East and called for community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a military operation targeting kidnappers, focusing on operational details, recovered evidence, and official statements. There is no overt ideological slant or emphasis on specific political factions. The framing remains neutral, relying on official military
Why factuality (85): This article reports on a military operation that resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of weapons. It provides specific dates, types of weapons, and operational details, consistent with the cross-source pattern of military interventions against criminal activity. It does not incl
Why objectivity (90): The tone is formal and objective, focusing solely on the military operation and its results. There is no indication of personal opinion or bias in the reporting.
Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 908 days agoOn 23 July 2026, Nigerian military forces under Operation HADIN KAI, in collaboration with the Yobe State Hunters Group, arrested five individuals suspected of kidnapping during a coordinated operation in Jegalari Village, Fune Local Government Area. The operation, led by troops from 233 Battalion based in Damaturu, was based on credible intelligence and resulted in the seizure of weapons and electronic devices linked to the suspects' activities. The detainees are being held for further investigation into their alleged involvement in kidnapping and other crimes. The military emphasized the importance of community vigilance and reporting of suspicious activity to support ongoing security efforts in the region.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a military operation targeting suspected kidnappers, focusing on operational details, intelligence used, and outcomes. There is no overt ideological slant or emphasis on specific political groups. The framing remains neutral, emphasizing the military’s role,
Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details about the operation, including date, location, number of suspects arrested, weapons recovered, and quotes from the commanding officer. It aligns with the cross-source consensus of similar operations reported by other outlets. No contradictions or inconsistencies
Why objectivity (90): The tone is formal and informative, presenting facts without emotional language or bias. The article maintains neutrality by focusing on the operation's outcomes and official statements.
Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 853 days ago Nigerian Army honoured as Africa’s best in counter-terrorism operationsThe Nigerian Army has been awarded 'Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations' for 2025 by African Security Watch, recognizing its efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism across the continent. The honor was presented to Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. The award highlights the Army’s operational achievements, strategic leadership, and commitment to counter-terrorism, including coordinated joint operations, intelligence-led campaigns, and civil-military cooperation. Shaibu praised the sacrifice of military personnel and emphasized the Army’s ongoing transformation into a more professional and combat-ready force. He also acknowledged the loss of personnel and expressed gratitude to their families for their support.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the Nigerian Army's achievement in counter-terrorism without overtly praising or criticizing the government's policies. It provides balanced reporting on the recognition, the ceremony, and the Army chief's remarks, focusing on factual acknowledgment rather than ideological slant
Why factuality (85): The article reports on the killing of a military officer, citing the DIA's confirmation and providing background on the victim. It aligns with other reports on the incident, though there are slight variations in the details.
Why objectivity (85): The tone is factual but carries some weight in terms of the gravity of the event. There is no overt bias, but the subject matter inherently involves a tragic outcome.
Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 858 days ago Troops kill four kidnap suspects, rescue three victims in Kwara, Kogi operationsNigerian Army troops conducted coordinated operations in Kogi and Kwara states, resulting in the neutralization of four suspected kidnappers and the rescue of three kidnapped individuals. The operations took place in areas such as Kaiama Local Government in Kwara and Yagba West Local Government in Kogi. During these operations, troops also arrested eight suspects, recovered weapons and cash, and provided medical assistance to victims. Additional actions included intervening in a farmer-herder conflict in Plateau state and thwarting an armed robbery attempt in Riyom Local Government Area.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about military operations and does not exhibit clear ideological framing or biased language. It reports on actions taken by the Nigerian Army without apparent emphasis on political implications or partisan perspectives.
Why factuality (80): The article reports on a successful police operation that resulted in the rescue of victims and the apprehension of suspects. It aligns with the cross-source consensus but contains some incomplete sentences and lacks the depth of other reports.
Why objectivity (85): The tone is generally neutral, but the article uses some emotionally charged language when describing the confrontation with the kidnappers.
Premium Times NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 803 days ago Military confirms killing of army colonel by gunmen in AbujaThe Nigerian Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) confirmed the killing of Colonel Abdussalam Ude, a senior military officer, during a gunfight with unidentified assailants at his home in Abuja. The attack occurred on 27 July, and Ude's wife, driver, and security guard were injured. The DIA stated that investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those responsible. Colonel Ude, known for his service in counter-terrorism and intelligence roles, was set to be promoted to brigadier general. This incident follows previous attacks on the same military housing estate, including abductions and attempts to kidnap residents. Security forces have been actively responding to rising kidnapping cases in Abuja.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a violent crime involving a high-ranking military officer, providing quotes from the DIA and contextual information about prior attacks in the area. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the DＩ
Why factuality (80): The article reports on the same incident as #4 but with slightly different phrasing and emphasis. It aligns with the cross-source consensus but lacks some of the contextual details provided in the more comprehensive report.
Why objectivity (80): The article presents the event with a somewhat dramatic tone, using phrases like 'shot dead' and 'resisting kidnappers,' which may imply a certain perspective rather than pure neutrality.
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