Personality in Focus
MNJTF Achieving Stability in Lake Chad Basin, Ten Months into Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali’s Command
By Abubakar Abdullahi
In the heart of Africa, the Lake Chad Basin serves as lifeblood for tens of millions, a unique ecological sanctuary, and a linchpin in regional stability. This expansive area, touching Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, is more than a geographical feature; it’s the cradle of biodiversity, agriculture, and cultures that have thrived for centuries. Amidst its abundant resources, however, the region has faced its share of turmoil, exacerbated by the shadow of Boko Haram and other insurgent groups. Yet, hope glimmers on the horizon, significantly attributed to the efforts and successes of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) over the past ten months.
The importance of the Lake Chad Basin cannot be overstated. It underpins the livelihoods of over 30 million people, offering water, fish, livestock grazing, and irrigation for agriculture. But beyond its economic significance, Lake Chad is a vital ecological habitat, home to diverse species and acting as a buffer against desertification. This multifaceted utility of the Lake Chad Basin underscores the imperative of preserving its stability and prosperity. However, the specter of insecurity, primarily due to the insurgent activities of Boko Haram and its offshoots, has cast a long shadow over the region. The resulting humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and at risk of starvation, has necessitated a robust response. Enter the MNJTF, a coalition of forces from Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria and Benin Republic, established with the purpose of counteracting the threat posed by these insurgent groups.
In the last ten months, the MNJTF under the command of Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali has made commendable strides in restoring peace and security to the Lake Chad Basin. Its multifaceted approach, combining kinetic and non-kinetic efforts, has proven effective. Notable successes include the dislodgement of insurgents from its strongholds, rescue of hostages, and reductions in the frequency and severity of attacks in the region. These military victories have been complemented by efforts to secure returnees and facilitate humanitarian assistance, reflecting a comprehensive strategy towards lasting peace. Moreover, the MNJTF has played a major role in facilitating the return of displaced persons and the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected areas by other state actors. Infrastructure, once devastated by years of conflict, is being rehabilitated, and community resilience initiatives are being introduced, aiming at not just recovery but a sustainable improvement in quality of life. These efforts signify a beacon of hope for the basin’s future, symbolizing a turn towards stability and prosperity.
The MNJTF has achieved considerable success in kinetic operations aimed at eliminating remnants of Boko Haram and other terrorist factions in the Lake Chad Basin. Between July 2023 and April 2024, a significant victory was achieved with 299 terrorists being neutralized, 273 surrendering and 337 arrested for further investigation across different sectors. The operations also led to the recovery of various arms and ammunition, including 20 AK-47 rifles, 4 machine guns, 5 hand grenades, and 35 magazines, among various personal items. Additionally, the troops recovered 1,416 rounds of ammunition of different calibers. These operations, carried out within their national territories by the sectors, have significantly degraded the terrorists’ ability to launch large-scale attacks on the Lake, forcing them instead to resort to hit-and-run tactics against isolated civilian targets.
Likewise, the MNJTF has conducted Operation NASHRUL SALAM, a non-kinetic approach to break the cycle of terror. This psychological operation was tailored to foster surrender and disrupt unity among the terrorist factions. Operation NASHRUL SALAM disseminated messages across the Lake Chad region in 5 languages: Kanuri, Hausa, Arabic, French, and English, to ensure widespread comprehension. These tailored messages were air-dropped over specific islands known to harbour terrorists, targeting them directly in their hideouts. The operation’s impact was profound, culminating in a significant number of terrorists surrendering. This wave of capitulation not only weakened the terrorists’ resolve but also led to the recovery of a variety of arms and ammunition, which were surrendered to the troops.
The success of Operation NASHRUL SALAM underscores the effectiveness of psychological operations in counter-terrorism efforts, showcasing the power of communication in undermining terror networks and encouraging peace.
Operation NASHRUL SALAM is not the sole non-kinetic initiative aimed at enhancing stability in the Lake Chad region. Supported by its partner, the European Union, the MNJTF has executed Quick Impact Projects throughout the four sectors of the MNJTF. In particular, after successful kinetic operations, over 3,200 residents of the Bagatelerom community in Chad have returned to their ancestral homes, with MNJTF personnel assisting their resettlement in partnership with relevant agencies. Additionally, the revival of fishing activities, previously hindered by security concerns in the region, marks a significant turnaround. Moreover, within the year, farmers in the Baga community have received agricultural tools and benefited from the installation of more than ten irrigation boreholes to bolster food security in the area. These efforts underscore our modest yet impactful contributions toward enhancing the socio-economic conditions within the Lake Chad Basin Region. Over the last ten months, we have carried out 95 Quick Impact Projects in 31 communities around Lake Chad, spanning water and sanitation, health, and education sectors.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the support provided by the Lake Chad Basin Commission. The Commission took a lead role in convening a meeting of the Council of Chiefs of Defence Staff and Ministers of Defence from the Troop Contributing Countries in N’Djamena, Chad, from 11 to 15 March 2024. This council acknowledged the need to initiate Operation LAKE SANITY 2 to thwart any terrorist attempts to regroup and to capitalize on the progress already achieved. This strategic deliberation paved the way for the launch of Operation LAKE SANITY 2 on 23 April 2024. Since the operation’s commencement, the troops have exhibited a high level of dedication to achieving the mission’s objectives, showcasing their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.
Operation LAKE SANITY 2 is poised to significantly compliment various national operations and solidify the multinational joint efforts of the MNJTF. The troops have demonstrated unparalleled dedication to achieving their mission, a sentiment warmly echoed by the local communities, who have greeted the forces with open arms and cheers—a clear sign of their support. This local backing aligns with the Force Commander’s repeated calls for community engagement across different sectors within the MNJTF Area of operations, highlighting the operation’s importance and the critical role of local support in its success.
This collaborative success story of MNJTF under Maj Gen IS Ali serves as a testament to what can be accomplished when nations unite against a common threat. As we look forward, it’s imperative that the successes of the MNJTF are built upon. Continued international support, coupled with sustained commitment from the member states, is indispensable. The Lake Chad Basin, with its profound importance to ecological balance, economic sustenance, and cultural heritage, deserves no less. The strides made by the MNJTF in restoring stability are but the first steps on the long road to comprehensive recovery and development. The future of the Lake Chad Basin hinges on the continuation of these concerted efforts to ensure that this vital region can fully realize its potential as a cradle of prosperity and peace.
Abubakar Abdullahi is a Lieutenant Colonel, and the Chief Public Information Officer, Headquarters Multinational Joint Task Force, Ndjamena, Chad Republic.
Personality in Focus
CM Shehu Mohammed Lauds NAOSNP over 2025 Road Safety Champion Award, Hails Staff
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mallam Shehu Mohammed has won the 2025 Road Safety Champion Awards instituted by the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) at the National Conference/Awards held recently in Lagos, in recognition of his aggressive transformation agenda in road transportation safety and commitment to championing the campaign for safer road environment in Nigeria through the FRSC platform.
In his remarks at the event, the National President of NAOSNP, Mayor Oki Samson emphasized the growing responsibility of the media—particularly online security news outlets in shaping public understanding and national resilience in an era marked by complex security threats, misinformation, and rapid technological changes. Mayor Oki underscored the vital role of the press in national security discourse and called for deeper collaboration between media and security agencies to ensure accurate, timely, and responsible reporting.
According to him, the event represents not just a dialogue, but a critical partnership between those who safeguard the nation and those that shape public opinions, stressing the need for harmony that could present national understanding, cohesion and development. He called on the award winners to continue to discharge their national responsibilities with greater zeal and patriotism, noting that building and safeguarding a nation requires robust collaboration and partnerships between stakeholders.
In his Keynote address, the the former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, who was represented by Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman underscored the critical interplay between security, governance, and national development. His called for unity, responsible journalism, and collective action to secure Nigeria’s future. “This event serves as a platform for reinforcing the media’s role in national security and commitment to safeguarding the nation,” he stated.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 2 Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade, who spoke on the theme of the conference, positioned security as a foundational enabler of economic development and resource safeguarding in Nigeria, saying the two must always harmonize to produce credible results for national security and development agenda.
With the theme “Securing and Safeguarding Nigeria’s Economic Resources,” AIG Fayoade’s messages highlighted the necessity of aligning security operations with economic priorities, leveraging identity and information systems, partnering across sectors, and ensuring ethical, capable, forward‑looking security institutions. Such an approach, he said, recognises that economic resources whether tangible (infrastructure, commodities, ports) or intangible (identity systems, revenue flows, investor confidence) require integrated, multi‑dimensional protection.
”As Nigeria continues to aim for growth, investment, and resource optimisation, the link between security and economy remains central,” the AIG submitted.
Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed of the FRSC whose award was received on his behalf by the Sector Commander of Lagos State Sector Command of the FRSC, Corps Commander Kehinde Hamzat, reiterated that every movement starts and ends on the road. He stressed that transportation is a critical aspect of Nigeria’s infrastructure and plays a vital role in connecting people, goods and services across the country.Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed further noted that Road Traffic Crashes are the major factors contributing to disruptions in the supply chains and increase in operational costs for the transport sector.
While emphasizing the role of stakeholders in national security and development efforts, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed gave assurances that FRSC as an agency of the Federal Government charged with the lead agency responsibility of ensuring road traffic management and safety administration in the country will effectively enforce relevant reforms in transportation safety laws as government at all levels is geared toward investing more in infrastructure and combating corruption in the system.
The FRSC Boss further called on the media to continue to raise public awareness on issues of road safety, hold people accountable and disseminate information most professionally to build trust and ensure integrity of their reportage, dedicating the award to the hardworking personnel of the FRSC.
In attendance at the event which also saw the award of NAOSNP “Best Security Agency Spokesperson of the Year” to the FRSC Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide
were representative of the former Chief of Defence Staff; representative of the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade and the representative of the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi among security and other agencies.
It is worthy of note that NAOSNP National Security Conference/Awards has over the years become the largest media-organized security conference, gathering top public and private stakeholders in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Personality in Focus
Tunji Alausa is a True Son of Yorubaland, Family Member Replies Detractors, Says Attacks Politically Motivated
The Chief Executive Officer, Okay Group, Mrs. Motunrayo Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu, has publicly condemned a series of online posts accusing the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Morufu Alausa, of attempting to abolish the teaching of Yoruba language in Nigerian schools.
Akinlosotu, who identified herself as a relative of the minister, described the claims as unfounded and driven by political motives.
She reacted specifically to a viral Facebook post by one Abulesowo Egbowon, who labelled Dr. Alausa “an enemy and a saboteur of Yorubaland” and accused him of allegedly opposing Yoruba language education and regional interests.
In a strongly worded response, Akinlosotu dismissed the allegations, insisting that Dr. Alausa is a “true son of Yoruba land” whose heritage and service record contradict the narrative being pushed online.
“My name is Motunrayo Ajeigbe-Akinlosotu. Dr. Alausa happens to be my uncle. He is from Lagos State. The mother is half Lagos and half Ilesa. While the father is from Lagos on both sides of his family. So Alausa is a true son of Yorubaland and a true son of Lekombi Omo Eko,” she said.
She expressed shock that some individuals were cursing the minister over policies she said he had no hand in, noting that the attacks appeared politically motivated.
“I don’t know why people are now raising curses on Dr. Alausa. It’s not about the portfolio he is holding. Many of those spreading these things are simply frustrated,” she said.
She believes the attacks may be coming from Alausa’s enemies who are frightened by his rising profile in politics.
Ajeigbe praised the minister’s performance, describing him as a hardworking reformer who has introduced policies aimed at improving the education sector.
“Dr. Alausa is doing well in the Ministry of Education. He has changed many things that were not working. He is always ready to help people at any time, even without seeking recognition,” she added.
Addressing insinuations about his religious or cultural identity, Ajeigbe emphasised that the minister comes from a deeply religious family with both Muslim and Christian backgrounds and has always been committed to supporting communities in Lagos and beyond.
“This is a man many people look up to in Lagos State. He helps quietly without announcing it. So where is all this beef coming from?” she asked.
She urged Nigerians to disregard false narratives being circulated on social media, warning that political actors may be attempting to smear the minister for personal or partisan reasons.
The controversy began after Egbowon’s Facebook post accused Dr. Alausa of attempting to halt Yoruba-language instruction in schools and questioned why none of the minister’s children reportedly bear Yoruba names.
The post sparked a flurry of negative comments portraying the minister as “not a son of the soil.”
Ajeigbe called for restraint and urged the public to seek facts rather than fall for misleading information circulated online.
“Please, people should be very careful. I am not talking about politics. I am talking about who Dr. Tunji Alausa truly is,” she said.
Personality in Focus
CINI Boss, Habeeb Okunola Bags Canadian Excellence Award for Philanthropy, Community Devt
The Chief Executive Officer, CINI Holdings Limited, High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, has honoured with an excellence award by the Mayor of Brampton, in Canada.
The award was in recognition of the business man’s commitment to community development, and excellent philanthropic gestures to humanity.
The presentation of the excellence award, which took place at the CINI Holdings Ikoyi Lagos Office, proved to be significant as the Mayor of Brampton, His Lordship Mayor Patrick Brown, who was represented by Mr. Richard Forward, Senior Manager of Financial Advisory Services at the Corporate Budget Office of the City of Brampton, was present.
In his entourage were Mr. Imadu Maurice, an adviser and community engagement specialist from the Mayor’s Office, and Mrs. Kehinde Adelaja-Okoroafor, the Founder of the Make Mee Elegant Foundation.
While bestowing the honour on High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, MON, OFR, who is also the Akosin of Yoruba Land, they duo noted in separate remarks that the awardee’s track record in community development and acts of outstanding philanthropy, have set him apart as a thoroughbred and deserving of the honour.
High Chief Habeeb’s philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted many lives, and this recognition was also accompanied by a letter sealed by the Mayor, acknowledging his commitment to economic development, community advancement also his unwavering support for the African Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) in Canada earlier this year.
Mayor Brown expressed his deep commitment to fostering partnerships with dedicated Nigerians both at home and abroad, particularly in areas of human capital development, empowerment, and entrepreneurship.
“With a vibrant Nigerian community comprising approximately 12,000 residents in Brampton, it is crucial to spotlight individuals like High Chief Habeeb, who are making a tangible difference in the welfare of others. His philanthropic spirit embodies the values of compassion and community service that the Mayor seeks to promote.” the Mayor said in his speech.
In a gesture of appreciation and collaboration, Mayor Brown extended an invitation to High Chief Habeeb to join him and his entourage for next year’s African Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) event, which the City of Brampton will host. This event aims to further enhance economic ties, empower one thousand women and celebrate the contributions of the African Diaspora to Canadian society.
In his response, an elated Okunola thanked the organizers for his recognising his ‘little’ contributions to the growth of humanity, and promised to do more to put smiles on the faces of people whenever he could.
