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Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Building team work through paintball

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Paintballers in action at The Cardboard, Three Bridges Park, Idu Industrial Layout, Abuja

 

The 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, which was held on Jan. 15, featured the usual and traditional activities—parades and laying of wreaths across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

In Abuja, President Muhammadu Buhari led Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, to lay wreaths at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja, to commemorate the day.

The festival is to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, internal security operations as well as Peace Support Operations around the world.

A unique and noble initiative debuted among activities that heralded the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day; it added colour and verve to the celebration.

That novel and grand event is Paintballing Festival held on Jan. 14 at The Cardboard, Three Bridges Park, Idu Industrial Layout, Abuja.

The Paintballing Festival was organised by Forest Hunters, a non-governmental organisation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces—the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force; and Defence Headquarters.

Paintballing is a simulation of a live-combat scenario using dummy ammunition with paint bullets, among other things.

The objectives of Paintballing include capture the flag, attack and defend, total annihilation and protect the president among others.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, who presided over the ceremony, handed over awards to the navy team who emerged champions after defeating the army team in the final.

Prior to the final, there was also an exhibition game by the Professional Association of Paintballers in Nigeria.

Irabor congratulated members of the armed forces especially the veterans.

“Those we consider to be our forebears in the services of the armed forces for a very good work that have done; which has made the nation to set out Jan. 15 of every year to honour them as the Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration.

“This is because they have committed to the service of this nation in the manner that the sovereignty of Nigeria has been sustained.

“Many of our forebears have paid the supreme sacrifice; and they are long gone; a few others are alive and kicking.

“And in order to let them know that their services are valued, the nation has set aside the Jan. 15 of every year to remember them and indeed, honour them,” he said.

CDS fires paintball
CDS fires paintball

The defence chief said that as a prelude to the Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration, there were series of events that would lead to the climax.

According to him, Paintballing Festival is one of such innovations introduced into Remembrance Day.

“Two days ago, we had the gulf tournament which was packaged to honour our veterans.

“I am glad to announce that they were there in their numbers playing gulf; what a delight it was.

“So, tonight, the event we have witnessed is to also honour them; to let them know that their services will never be forgotten.

“So, I am proud that we have been able to put this together in partnership with the Forest Hunters who of course, came up with the idea and suggested that we partner with them,’’ Irabor said.

He commended Bayo Omoboriowo, Project Lead, Forest Hunters, for packaging the event.

He said that Omoboriowo, alongside his team in Forest Hunters, had given the armed forces a 30 per cent rebate for any use of the arena.

The CDS said that Paintballing would henceforth feature in the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration with requisite modifications.

He said: “ I will like to also say that going forward, we will do everything possible to partner with the Forest Hunters; making it an annual event as we remember our fallen heroes and of course, the armed forces every Jan. 15.

“Now, Paintballing, wherein in 1960 or thereabout, Mr Charles Nelson was forward looking enough; being a worker in a paint industry to design a programme of this nature which, over the years, has evolved to what we saw earlier this evening.

“I am delighted that here in Nigeria, we will do further modifications to suit our environment and I think that this location, where we are having the premier edition, is a very unique position that affords us the privilege.

Providing an insight into the maiden edition of the festival, Omoboriowo said it was conceived on a short notice when he met with the CDS and discussed the idea of honouring the fallen heroes.

He said he had been very passionate about the military and security of Nigeria and passionate about Nigeria as a nation.

Gen. Irabor and Omoboriowo pose with the competitors
Gen. Irabor and Omoboriowo pose with the competitors

“Forest Hunters recognises the dedication and sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in preserving the security the country, promoting national integration and diversity.

“This festival is to appreciate the valiant efforts of the living and fallen heroes of Nigeria, using paintball as a sport to encourage team building, strategic thinking and physical and mental fitness.

“I believe so much in the future of Nigeria; and I believe the future of Nigeria can only be possible by the efforts we make as individuals; the government cannot do it alone; the people cannot do it alone; it is synergy.

“And for me, I have come to partner and collaborate with the service chiefs and anybody that is willing and interested in building a better Nigeria,” he said.

The project leader said that future of Nigeria belonged to every Nigerian; hence the need for synergy to move the country forward.

He said that the CDS, who believed in young people and believed in Nigeria, bought into the idea and gave all the support needed to bring it to fruition.

“I want to appreciate everyone that played on that field today; that field was built in seven days; everything you are seeing here was done just in two weeks.

“We are building the future of Nigeria…we believe we can convert the history of Nigeria and turn to a story we can all celebrate,’’ he said.

A paintballer, who pleaded anonymity, said that Paintballing Festival, if incorporated into the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, would promote team work and interpersonal relations among personnel of the armed forces.

He said it would enhance the fitness and combat readiness of Nigerian armed forces.

Observers say the introduction of Paintballing Festival as part of the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration is a quintessential mark of honour to the fallen heroes

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Dr. Nafiu Sankara Emerges as Kano Central Senatorial Candidate Ahead of the Next Elections

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Dr. Nafiu Danladi Sankara has emerged as a leading political figure and consensus candidate for the Kano Central Senatorial District under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 elections. His emergence reflects a growing call for purposeful leadership, youth inclusion, and a renewed political vision for Kano and Nigeria at large.

Dr. Sankara is widely known for his contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and public engagement. A politician, philanthropist, and public affairs advocate, he has consistently supported initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for young people and strengthening grassroots participation in governance.

His political journey is not new. In the 2019 general elections, Dr. Sankara contested as an aspirant for the House of Representatives under the PDP to represent the Tarauni Federal Constituency in Kano State. His participation in the democratic process demonstrated his long-standing commitment to public service and political representation.

With a vision centered on Youth Empowerment, Innovation, Good Governance, and National Unity, Dr. Sankara is seen by supporters as part of a new generation of leaders focused on inclusive development and responsive representation. His message emphasizes the importance of accountability, opportunity creation, and citizen-centered leadership.

Supporters and party stakeholders believe his experience in community engagement and grassroots mobilization will contribute positively to legislative representation, ensuring that the concerns of ordinary citizens receive adequate attention. His growing acceptance across different groups is seen as a sign of confidence in his leadership and political aspirations.

As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, many observers view Dr. Nafiu Sankara’s political journey as part of a broader conversation about leadership renewal, youth participation, and the future direction of governance in Kano State and Nigeria.

“The Youth. The Vision. The Change. The Future is Ours.”

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Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu Declared Winner of Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in Taraba

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Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Friendship Group, has been declared the winner of the APC primary elections for the Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in Taraba State. His victory reflects the overwhelming support of voters across the constituency, who have entrusted him once again with the responsibility of representing their interests at the National Assembly.

Since his election into the House of Representatives, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu has distinguished himself as a legislator of vision and purpose. His leadership of the Nigeria-China Friendship Group has been instrumental in strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in areas of trade, infrastructure, and technology. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to balance international diplomacy with grassroots development, ensuring that his constituency benefits from both global partnerships and local initiatives.

Hon. Yakubu is widely respected for his integrity, accessibility, and people-centered approach to governance. Voters describe him as approachable and transparent, qualities that have earned him trust and loyalty. His interventions in education, road construction, and youth empowerment have provided vital opportunities for rural communities in Taraba, connecting them to broader national development. His consistency in legislative duties and his reliability as a representative have further cemented his standing as a dependable voice in the House of Representatives.

His victory at the primaries is not just a political achievement but a reaffirmation of his commitment to service. Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu’s re-election bid promises continuity in championing international cooperation, local development, and legislative accountability. As Taraba looks forward to stronger representation in the National Assembly, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu stands out as a leader who combines vision, diplomacy, and grassroots connection to deliver meaningful progress for Bali/Gassol and Nigeria at large.

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Tinubu Mega Group Mobilises 1,500, Endorses Tinubu’s Second Term Bid

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The nation’s capital, Abuja, witnessed a massive political gathering on Tuesday as thousands of supporters under the umbrella of the Tinubu Mega Group (TMG) staged what organisers described as a “National Unity Rally” in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his re election bid ahead of the 2027 presidential election.The rally, which attracted participants from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, brought together over 1,500 groups comprising professionals, civil society organisations, youth associations, religious leaders, artisans, traders, women groups, and grassroots mobilisers.At the rally, the coalition formally presented what it described as the endorsement of “20 million Nigerians” for another four years of President Tinubu’s administration, insisting that ongoing economic and structural reforms must be sustained beyond 2027.Addressing the gathering, the National Spokesperson of the Tinubu Mega Group, Tijani Ali Danjuma, said the rally represented the collective voice of Nigerians who believe in continuity, stability, and national progress.According to him, despite prevailing economic difficulties and global challenges, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated courage and direction in tackling inherited national problems.He highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, renewed investments in local refining, economic stabilisation efforts, improved support for state governments, social intervention programmes, and reforms targeted at strengthening local governance and attracting investments.“The student loan programme has opened new opportunities for young Nigerians. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen the naira, improve food production, and reposition the economy for long term growth,” he stated.Danjuma added that the massive turnout at the rally was proof that support for the President cuts across regions, sectors, and religious affiliations.“To those spreading false narratives and attempting to create division, our answer is simple, the people have spoken. Nigerians are choosing continuity over confusion and progress over propaganda,” he declared.Also speaking at the rally on behalf of Nigerian professionals, Dr. Tabuko Kennedy said professionals across critical sectors of the economy were backing the administration because reforms require consistency and continuity to succeed.Representing doctors, lawyers, engineers, academics, entrepreneurs, creatives, artisans, and technocrats, Kennedy argued that abandoning ongoing reforms midway could negatively affect national development.He maintained that President Tinubu had shown commitment toward rebuilding the economy, strengthening infrastructure, improving revenue generation, supporting local industries, and creating opportunities for Nigerian youths.“As professionals, we understand that difficult reforms are never easy at the beginning, but we also know that abandoning reforms halfway can damage national progress,” he said.Kennedy further declared that “there is NO VACANCY in Aso Rock in 2027,” a statement that drew loud cheers from supporters at the venue.The Christian community was represented by Bishop Kola Oyedepo, who described the current phase of Nigeria’s development as a period requiring patience, sacrifice, wisdom, and collective responsibility.The cleric noted that leadership often demands difficult decisions and urged Nigerians not to allow bitterness, division, or destructive politics to derail ongoing efforts aimed at repositioning the country.According to him, reforms initiated under President Tinubu, including economic restructuring, infrastructure development, educational support through student loans, and efforts to improve local refining capacity, were necessary foundations for a stronger Nigeria.“Every wise builder must first lay a solid foundation. Nigeria today is in the process of rebuilding and restructuring its foundation for a stronger future,” the bishop stated.He urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country and its leaders while reiterating support for continuity in governance.“There is NO VACANCY in Aso Rock in 2027,” he added.Similarly, Islamic cleric Sheik Abubakar Mustapha called for patience, peace, unity, and support for national development efforts.The Imam acknowledged the economic and social challenges facing the country, but stressed that meaningful reforms require time, perseverance, and courageous leadership.He commended the administration’s focus on infrastructure, education support initiatives, governance reforms, and local refining projects aimed at strengthening national productivity.“We must not allow division, hatred, or politics of bitterness to weaken our country. Instead, we must support unity, peaceful coexistence, and responsible leadership,” he said.Mustapha also aligned with the position of the organisers, insisting that Nigerians who desire stability and sustained development understand that “there is NO VACANCY in Aso Rock in 2027.”Observers described the rally as one of the largest political mobilisation efforts witnessed in Abuja in recent months, with participants carrying banners, placards, and campaign materials bearing inscriptions such as “20 Million Nigerians Support Tinubu,” “Continuity for National Development,” and “One Voice, One Vision, One Nigeria.”The rally ended peacefully with prayers for national unity, economic recovery, and sustained democratic governance in Nigeria.

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