The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has confirmed that the ministry is investigating a recent confrontation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and naval officer A. M. Yerima over a disputed land in Abuja. The incident occurred on Tuesday when Wike visited the site, alleging that the military had illegally taken over land reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.).
Speaking at a press briefing at the National Defence College, Abuja, marking the launch of activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Badaru assured that the Armed Forces will protect personnel performing lawful duties. He stated:
“At the ministry and indeed the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty. Any officer performing their job diligently will be fully safeguarded.”
The minister also addressed broader defence initiatives, unveiling programmes aimed at strengthening military operations, national security, and veterans’ welfare.
New Defence Initiatives for National Security
Badaru introduced the Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P), which will deploy retired but agile military veterans to secure areas previously controlled by terrorists. The programme also seeks to stimulate local economies through farming, mining, and other development projects, while preventing the resurgence of terrorism.
In addition, the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code initiative was launched, enabling Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalised messages of appreciation to troops on the frontlines.
Ongoing Military Operations and Achievements
Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, military operations have yielded significant results:
- Neutralisation of over 13,000 terrorists and criminals
- Arrest of more than 17,000 suspects
- Rescue of nearly 10,000 hostages
- Destruction of 1,900 illegal refining sites
- Surrender of over 100,000 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters and their families
Veterans’ Welfare and Support
Badaru highlighted the ministry’s efforts to improve veterans’ welfare, including:
- Creation of a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre
- Enrollment of 2,141 previously ineligible Civil War veterans
- Plans to amend the Nigerian Legion Act and rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN)
- Expansion of Defence Health Maintenance Limited coverage to over 400,000 enrollees, including 205,000 veterans and their families
The minister urged Nigerians to recognise the sacrifices of troops and fallen heroes:
“We must continue to honour gallant men and women who embody valour, discipline, and unity; the pillars of our democracy and sovereignty.”
