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Lt Gen Farouq Yahaya And The Iconic Journey So Far

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By Adedoyin Abayomi

Right from the era of antiquity up until the present age, records have shown that the leadership pattern of a leader is a function of the general wellbeing of the subject he leads and even the territorial integrity of the land. A prominent military juggernaut, General Norman Schwarzkopf, a man who exhibited stellar leadership qualities in the United States Army, once said, and I quote, “It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States and former Army Colonel, once quoted that, “If there is not a war, you don’t get the great generals; if there is not a great occasion, you don’t get a great statesman; if Lincoln had lived in a time of peace, no one would have known his name.”
Lt. General Farouk Yahaya is a fantastic example of the above quotes. He has a humble, meek, and unassuming personality and has absolute respect for the Nigerian state and humanity in general. A passionate leader who adheres strictly to the philosophies of collectivism and idealism. Throughout his military career, he has demonstrated that he is a leader who strictly adheres to legitimacy, credibility, and moral authority and possesses a can-do attitude. He believes that the security of lives and property is a vital ingredient in any innovative and aspiring society. Lt.-General Farouk is a perfect gentleman, a game changer, who has an eagle eye for the Nigerian state. A complete compatriot who has been working diligently to defend the territorial integrity of the country. A statesman to the core. A cursory look at his antecedent in the Nigerian Army affirms that he is a man of many colors. He is a man who believes in the supremacy of God and coordinates himself in accordance with His will. Officers and men in the Nigerian Army can attest that he has no room for religious fanaticism, which is why he is loved by all. His big heart for giving and donating to those in need is obviously unrivaled.
Before being appointed as the 22nd Chief of Army Staff by President Buhari, Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya was the Theatre Commander of Operation HANDI KAI, whose primary mission was to combat insurgency and terrorism in the highbrow areas of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He enrolled in the prestigious Nigerian Defense Academy’s 37 Regular Course. He began his cadet training on September 27, 1985, and was commissioned into the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 22, 1990. His visionary leadership made him eligible to be appointed to the following prestigious offices: Headquarters Joint Task Force, Garrison Commander, Headquarter Guards Brigade, Deputy Director Army Research and Development, and Directing Staff at the Army Forces Command, Brigade and College (AFCSC). In other capacities, he served as Military Secretary, Principal General Staff Officer to the Honourable Minister of Defense, the commander, Headquarters 4 Brigade, and 29 Task Force (Operation Zaman Lafiya), and General Officer Commanding (GOC). 1 Division of the Nigerian Army. Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya holds a master’s degree in international affairs and diplomacy.
In 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari placed a search light on the Nigerian Army to see who was absolutely qualified to oversee the activities of the Nigerian Army, especially to crackdown on the insurgency that had bedeviled the nation. The light beamed on him, and he was appointed. His antecedents spoke for him. President Buhari, having a military background, knew that Lieutenant General Farouk had the experience, charisma, and wherewithal to deliver. A lot of things were put in place immediately after he took office as Chief of Army Staff, and the record shows that the country’s security posture has taken a commendable shape today. In office, he has been known for his leadership strategy, foresight, re-invigoration, and, of course, the internal working strategy of the Nigerian Army. In spite of the daunting challenges of the present day, like kidnapping, terrorism, pipeline vandalism, farmer-herder clashes, and a host of others, the Chief of Army Staff has shown professionalism at its peak, inspiring men and officers alike to be patriotic and resolute in the defense of the nation. More often than not, he has buttressed the importance of teamwork, discipline, and focus in the field of war, and all of these have helped gallant soldiers in the fight against insurgency in the North East and other parts of the country. If you randomly sample the opinion of the general public, I am confident that the majority will attest to the fact that security of life and property has significantly improved. The lieutenant has proven to Nigerians and indeed the world that the country can be very safe and, of course, a haven for citizens and even foreigners to do their businesses. I recently traveled along the Abuja-Kaduna route and found a heavy presence of military personnel, and I asked myself this question: “Has this road not been a dead zone and no-go area in the recent past?” The journey was quite smooth. I saw commuters ply the same road and businessmen and women going about their legal business. This is happening in the administration of Lieutenant-General Farouk Yahya.
Another thing the gallant officer is known for is the healthy and symbiotic relationship he established between the Nigerian Army and other security operatives, namely, the Police, Department of State Security, Navy, Air Force, and even the community-based security outfits. The synergy that has existed among these security outfits has since brought about significant results in battling insecurity. Definitely, this officer, who wouldn’t want the labor of our heroes past to be in vain, is apparently writing his name on the sand of time, which will definitely be indelible. Military formations are equipped with modern weapons that meet international standards; officers are given better field training; and there is a visible infrastructure development drive that will invariably improve the living conditions of the gallant soldiers in the field and their families. It can be succinctly said that this officer has reorganized the military with his wealth of experience as a soldier and uncommon wisdom. The president, in his wisdom, chose this officer to pilot the affairs of the Army, and for me, this is one of the nicest decisions that has been taken in the current administration. Without mincing words, he is one of the finest in recent history.
This man of valor garnered meritorious awards like the Meritorious Service Star, Forces Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Pass Staff Course (Dagger), National Defense College Golden Jubilee Medal, Silver Jubilee Medal, Field Command of Honor, Economic Community of West African State Monitoring Group Medal, and a host of others. Now, let us analyze these prestigious awards critically, without any sentiment of any kind: it takes a man of repute and impact to get them; it takes an officer with great knowledge and who has explored to deserve them. This alone has inspired other officers and soldiers in the Nigerian Army to stay focused and make a significant impact. Leiutenant General Farouk is a hero whose image has undoubtedly launched him onto the world stage when it comes to military capacity, and generations to come will read about him and his stellar qualities of humility, doggedness, intelligence, compassion, and patriotism. On a final note, whichever way one decides to look at it, Farouk Yahaya is an accomplished man, Nigerian, and military officer. His good works will continue to speak for his children, the Nigerian Army, Nigeria, and this generation. Shannon Adler once said, ”Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.” Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya has carved his name on the hearts of many Nigerians, and they will surely share fantastic stories about him. Happy Birthday to a true General.

Abayomi is a public affairs analyst based in Lagos.

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion

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Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.

In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.

According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.

“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.

The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.

Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.

“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.

Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.

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Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity

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A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.

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