Fake Navy Captain Busted in Lagos: How Impostors Tried to Intimidate Residents in Oworonshoki

Lagos Task Force has arrested three men for allegedly posing as Nigerian Navy officers to defraud residents and obstruct government operations in Oworonshoki. The principal suspect, identified as James K. Robert, reportedly used a fake naval identity to intimidate officials, demand the release of seized vehicles and threaten confrontation. Suspicion arose after he failed to provide verifiable service details and wore a poorly arranged uniform. Naval Police later confirmed he was not a serving officer, leading to his arrest alongside two accomplices. Investigations are ongoing.

FG GRADUATES OVER 7,000 FOREST GUARDS, SET FOR IMMEDIATE DEPLOYMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF COMMISSIONS BOREHOLES AND COMMUNITY HEALTH POST IN PLATEAU STATE

On Tuesday, 23 December 2025, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), commissioned nine boreholes and the Dikam Dungku Community Health Post at Fungzai, Bwai District, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, under the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Quick Impact Projects (CNSQIP). The projects were facilitated by Rear Admiral Habila Dunku Zakaria, an illustrious son of the Fungzai Community, Mangu North LGA, while the CNS was represented at the event by the Chief of Naval Engineering, Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Nan’manle Damtong.

While commissioning the projects, Rear Admiral Damtong stated that the interventions reflect the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to community development beyond its core security responsibilities. He noted that the CNSQIP, introduced in 2024, aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Navy’s civil–military cooperation mandate. The CNS commended Rear Admiral Zakaria for giving back to his community and urged beneficiaries to use and maintain the facilities responsibly.

In his remarks, Rear Admiral Habilab Dunku Zakaria, the facilitator of the project, described the initiative as a strategic step towards improving the health, dignity and well-being of rural communities, particularly women, children and the elderly. He explained that the boreholes would ensure access to clean drinking water, while the community health post would serve as a first line of defence for disease prevention, health education, routine medical care, treatment of common ailments such as malaria, and immunisation services for children. The ceremony was attended by community members, traditional rulers, political office holders and friends of the facilitator.

#NigerianNavy
#OnwardTogether

Nigerian Navy Rescues 20 Crew Members from Fire on MV Chimba Express in Calabar

The Nigerian Navy confirmed the rescue of 20 crew members from the foreign vessel MV Chimba Express after a fire broke out along the Calabar Channel on December 22, 2025. The vessel, carrying 14 Nigerians and 7 Cameroonians from Gabon to Calabar, suffered a fire in its midship and aft sections. Naval personnel, supported by local fishermen and other units, rescued the crew using life buoys and administered first aid. One crew member, the Chief Engineer, remains missing after reportedly jumping overboard. Investigation into the fire’s cause and ongoing search operations continue.

#NigerianNavy #MVChimbaExpress #MaritimeRescue #Calabar #FireIncident #SeafarerSafety #NigeriaNews

20 Nigerian Navy Crew Members Rescued After MV Chimba Express Catches Fire in Cross River, Chief Engineer Missing Amid Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations

A Nigerian Navy vessel successfully rescued 20 crew members from the MV Chimba Express, which caught fire along the Oron–Calabar waterways in Cross River State. The vessel, en route from Gabon to Calabar carrying scrap materials, had 21 crew members, including 14 Nigerians and 7 Cameroonians. The Chief Engineer reportedly jumped into the water fearing an explosion and is still missing, with search operations ongoing. Rescue efforts were supported by local fishermen and naval personnel, using life buoys and portable pumps to contain the fire. The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maritime safety and protection of seafarers. This incident echoes a similar April fire on the Igbega Eko ferry, which injured four passengers.

#NigerianNavy #MaritimeSafety #CrossRiverAccident

Lawless Nigerian Navy Officer Brutalises Woman in Lagos During Dispute With Mechanic as Husband Watches, Sparking Outrage

A Nigerian Navy warrant officer, Balogun Olu, has been accused of violently assaulting a housewife in the presence of her husband during a dispute over a faulty car jack repair in Gowon Estate, Egbeda, Lagos State. According to the victim’s husband, Jacob Ipogah, the naval officer became aggressive while demanding an immediate refund from a mechanic and physically attacked Ipogah’s wife when she tried to calm the situation. The woman was allegedly slapped and beaten as bystanders intervened to stop the assault. Ipogah further alleged that naval authorities handled the complaint dismissively, asking the officer to merely apologise while blaming the victim for speaking up. The incident has raised serious concerns about abuse of power, gender-based violence, and impunity within Nigeria’s security agencies.

Two Suspected Kidnappers With Miyetti Allah IDs Killed in Navy Shootout in Kogi

Two suspected kidnappers allegedly carrying Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association ID cards were killed during a gun battle with Nigerian Navy operatives along the Inele/Inabe Road in Olamaboro LGA, Kogi State. The suspects reportedly engaged the naval patrol while attempting a kidnapping operation. The incident follows increasing insecurity in Kogi, including recent abductions in Yagba East and attacks on farmers. Authorities are investigating the authenticity of the ID cards and potential links to wider criminal networks, while residents continue to call foincreased security interventions.

Ondo Youth Brutalised by Naval Officers Battles for Life as Navy Redeploys Accused Commanding Officer

Gbenga Omogbemi, an Ilaje youth brutally assaulted by naval personnel over an alleged theft of $9,000 belonging to Navy Captain Aliyu Usman, remains in critical condition despite earlier reports claiming he had died. The Nigerian Navy has since redeployed Captain Usman, who was accused of leading multiple violent operations in Ilaje communities, including destruction of property, arson, killings, harassment, and repeated sexual assaults. Residents say the officers invaded Obejedo, Obe-Adun, and Obe-Nla on October 19, destroying property worth millions and leaving several people missing. Community members insist the Navy fabricated claims of illegal refining, while activists defending the victims have reportedly been arrested. They are calling for a full investigation and justice.


#OndoState

#NigerianNavy

#HumanRightsAbuse

Navy Officer Who had heated exchange with Wike ‘Escapes Assassination Attempt’ — Investigation Underway

A young Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. A.M. Yarima the same officer who recently clashed with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reportedly survived an assassination attempt on Sunday evening.

Military sources told Vanguard that unidentified men dressed in black, driving two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates, trailed the officer from the NIPCO Filling Station along the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way. Their coordinated movement reportedly raised immediate suspicion.

Upon sensing the threat, Yarima executed a “strategic maneuver,” successfully shaking off the suspected assailants around 6:30 p.m. The matter is currently under investigation, with officials describing it as “sensitive” and insisting that certain details are being withheld to avoid compromising ongoing findings.

This incident comes barely days after Yarima’s viral confrontation with Wike at a disputed land site in Gaduwa an exchange that sparked public outrage and forced the Presidency to halt the demolition exercise.

Following the clash, military veterans nationwide condemned Wike’s conduct, labelling his verbal attack on the officer as disrespectful and unacceptable. Coalition spokesman, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, warned that ex-service members were prepared to “occupy” the minister’s office and residence if any disciplinary action was taken against Yarima, stressing that military personnel owe allegiance to the nation, not to individual officials.

Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, later reassured the public that no officer acting lawfully would be punished, emphasising that the government remains committed to protecting personnel performing their duties professionally.

Veterans had earlier vowed to mobilise across the country should Lt. Yarima face any form of penalty a threat many say reflects the depth of support the young officer currently enjoys.

Lieutenant Yarima escapes "assassination attempt" in Abuja days after engaging in tense confrontation with Wike.

Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. A.M. Yarima, who recently had a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, reportedly escaped an assassination attempt around 6:30pm on Sunday, Nov. 16.

According to Vanguard, military sources stated that Yarima was trailed by some unknown men clad in black and riding in two unmarked Hilux vans with no number plates. The vehicles allegedly followed him from the NIPCO Filling Station off the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way.

According to the source, Yarima noticed the men trailing him and executed a “strategic maneuver,” successfully evading the suspected assailants.

The source added that the matter is under investigation and is receiving “the seriousness it deserves.”

The source also disclosed to the publication that further details are being withheld so as not to compromise the investigation.

This comes days after Lt. Yarima, while on duty with other security personnel, engaged in a tense confrontation with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed land site in Gaduwa District.

I Don’t Have Any Problem With The Military” – Wike Speaks After Clash With Soldiers In Abuja.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dispelled any claims of a misunderstanding between himself and the Nigerian military.

According to Wike, who spoke with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, he has no problem and would never have a problem with the military.

His comments follow the altercation between him and an officer of the Nigerian Navy on Tuesday over the legality of an ongoing development of a land in Abuja, which has since snowballed into a matter of national discourse.

However, in his chat with newsmen on Thursday, the FCT Minister stated that claims in certain quarters about a fallout between him and the Nigerian military are false, mischievous, and unfounded.

He submitted that the Armed Forces is an institution he has utmost respect for, adding that his administration has remained steadfast in supporting military operations within the FCT and across Nigeria.

“Let me make it clear I do not have any problem with the military and will never have. I have great respect for the institution and for the sacrifices they make to keep our nation safe,” he said.

Addressing his comments during the heated confrontation which broke out on Tuesday in Abuja after soldiers prevented him and his entourage from accessing a parcel of land in the Gaduwa district, Wike said his words were taken out of context as he was only advocating for lawful conduct and adherence to constitutional principles by all security operatives.

“What I said was simple no officer or individual should carry out an illegal order. If an instruction is unlawful, you have the right to say no. That does not mean I have a problem with the military.

You Can't Shut Me Up, Look At You, You're My Junior You Can't Talk When I'm Talking-Lt. A.M Yerima.

Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a Nigerian Navy officer, has drawn public attention after a video shared by Channels Television captured him leading a team of soldiers to block an alleged attempt by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to demolish the property of former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd).

In the footage, Yerima was seen standing firmly in front of police officers and officials from the FCT Administration who had arrived at the site to execute the demolition order. The naval officer resisted the move, insisting that the operation could not proceed without proper clearance from the appropriate authorities.

As tensions rose, Yerima clashed verbally with one of the police officers who tried to intervene in the heated situation. The visibly angry officer said, “You cannot shut me up. Look at you, you are my junior, you cannot even talk when I’m talking.” His response drew gasps from bystanders, highlighting the intensity of the standoff between the two security agencies.

Eyewitnesses reported that Yerima and his men successfully prevented the demolition team from entering the disputed property, located in an upscale district of Abuja. The building had earlier been marked for demolition by the FCT Administration over alleged violations of land use regulations.

“A Threat to National Security” — Buratai Slams Wike Over Clash with Naval Officer in Abuja

In a bold statement that has stirred national debate, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd.), has warned that the recent altercation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a Nigerian Navy officer poses a “clear and present danger to national security.”

Buratai, writing on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday, condemned Wike’s public confrontation with the officer, describing it as “a reckless act that undermines the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and the integrity of the Armed Forces.”

The confrontation reportedly took place at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja, over a disputed parcel of land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff.

According to reports, Wike—accompanied by officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)—had arrived at the site to halt what he called an illegal construction. A viral video from the scene shows the minister angrily confronting the officer, declaring that “no one, not even the Chief of Naval Staff, is above the law.”

The unnamed officer, however, maintained that the land belonged to a former service chief and was under legitimate military protection.

Reacting to the viral footage, Buratai warned that Wike’s actions went beyond political theatrics.

“A minister’s verbal assault on a uniformed officer is an act of profound indiscipline that strikes at the foundation of our national security,” he said.

Buratai urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to view the situation as a serious national security concern, insisting that Wike must publicly apologize to the Commander-in-Chief, the Armed Forces, and the affected officer.

“Our nation’s security must come first. It is time for decisive action, not politics of military bashing,” Buratai added.

The incident continues to spark heated reactions across Nigeria, with military veterans and citizens debating the boundaries of ministerial authority and military respect under a democratic government.

Nigerian Navy Rescues 10 Crew Members from Distressed Vessel Off Calabar Coast.

The Nigerian Navy says its personnel have rescued 10 crew members from a distressed vessel off Calabar waters.

In a statement on Friday, Navy spokesperson Commodore A. Adams-Aliu said the rescue was carried out by troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA after receiving a distress call at about 8pm.

According to him, the Base deployed a naval gunboat fitted with a submersible pump to assist MV SEMA III, which had departed Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, and was heading to Calabar, Cross River State, before it began taking in water.

Upon arrival, the naval team safely evacuated all 10 occupants — one Cameroonian, one Equatorial Guinean, and eight Nigerians. The rescued crew members were taken to FOB IBAKA, where they were debriefed, cared for, and accommodated until Saturday, 8 November 2025.

The Master of MV SEMA III expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for the swift response and professional handling of the situation.

He added that the incident highlights the Navy’s strengthened efforts under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to enhance maritime safety, safeguard national maritime assets, and support lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.

Nigeria Records Zero Piracy Cases in Five Years – Naval Chief

Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, says the country has not recorded a single case of piracy on its waterways in the past five years, crediting the achievement to sustained naval patrols and operations.

Speaking at the passing-out parade of the 2025 set of sailors at the Nigerian Navy School, Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom State, Ogalla — represented by Rear Admiral Gabriel Aligwe — highlighted the impact of initiatives like Operation Delta Sanity and constant surveillance systems.

He commended naval personnel for their resilience in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and urged graduating sailors to remain focused on their careers. Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, also encouraged the cadets to shun vices and pursue excellence in service and education.

#Nigeria #Navy #Piracy #MaritimeSecurity #EmmanuelOgalla #OperationDeltaSanity

Nigerian Navy Officer Dead As Boat Drowns In Lagos Anti-Rice Smuggling Operation.

The Nigerian Navy, operating from Forward Operating Base Escravos under NNS Delta, intercepted six boats carrying stolen crude oil and arrested three suspects for pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, based on intelligence reports.