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.
Veteran and celebrated journalist, who is the Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu, has been named the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) Media Icon of the Decade for his contribution to the field of journalism as well as lifting budding journalists to reach their desired heights.
The award was presented by the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who was the Distinguished Guest of Honour at the occasion, assisted by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Onikan, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, President of NAOSNP, Samson Oki and a host of other dignitaries present, at the 2024 National Security Conference of the Association, held at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, on Wednesday.
In her remarks at the presentation, the Honourable Minister praised the Ovation boss for his continuous to journalism, projecting African business and political leaders as well as other Nigerians in a positive light.
“We thank you Mr Ovation for all you do and continue to do. You deserve the award, and I happily present it to you,” the Minister, who reminisced with gusto the season Ovation covered her event, said.
In his response, an elated Dele Momodu, expressed gratitude to the executives and members of NAOSNP, whom he modestly described as ‘colleagues’, for considering him for the award, saying that it is always a thing of joy when your own constituency acknowledges your good works, and shows appreciation.
“I thank the members of this association for this award. It is fulfilling when your own colleagues remember you, and support you with an award of thus type. I thank the honorable minister for being available to present it to me. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said with a sense of patriotism.
Born on May 16, 1960, in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Chief Dele Momodu, a distinguished African Journalist of high repute, fulfills the dictates of impeccability in credentials, testimonials and track record.
A publisher, businessman, philanthropist, and more, he runs the highly rated Ovation International Magazine, a member of the Ovation Media Group, that has given publicity to numerous personalities. Others in his line of publications are Ovation Television and The Boss Newspaper.
Momodu has redefined negative perceptions of Africa, profiling positively African personalities, using his X, Instagram and more, where his followership runs into millions.
A former presidential candidate, Momodu has a degree in Yoruba from the Obafemi Awolowo University, and Doctorates (honoris causa) from various universities, with multiple traditional titles.
He is well traveled, and has visited over 69 countries of the world.
He is married, with four children.
Personality in Focus
Security Stakeholders, Others Laud Sulaiman-Ibrahim As Agent of Change, Capacity Builder, Fit for Public Service
The Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has received accolades from security agencies across board as well as stakeholders in the Nigerian security business, who acknowledged her undisputed legacy of thorough policing, initiatives and landmark achievements in the little over one year as an appointee of President Bola Tinubu.
The stakeholders unanimously agreed that Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in the discharge of her constitutional duties, has exceeded expectations of the observers, analysts, employees and employers as she continually dishes out one great innovation after another.
These recommendations were showered on the Minister at the 2024 Security Conference and Awards of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), which was held at the Oriental Hotel, in Lagos with notable dignitaries from the security agencies and beyond, including the Assistant Inspector-General of Police Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade; the Corp Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, who was represented by Assistant Corps Marshal Adeoye Irelewuyi; Superintendent of Customs Theophilus Duniya, representing the National Public Relations Officer, Chief Supt of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu, Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ishola, Representative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, delegates from Trace, Ogun State and a host of other stakeholders, in attendance.
In his speech as one of the keynote speakers at the Conference, with the theme, CONNECTING THE DOT BETWEEN IDENTITY TRACKING AND NATIONAL SECURITY, AIG Adegoke Fayoade lauded the Minister as one deserving of accolades, having steadfastly adjusted the Nigerian Police in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, ensuring that the Police receive the right equipment, training and remote as well as immediate paraphernalia to execute the job of policing. He noted that the Nigerian Police of today has implemented several identity tracking systems to enhance national security.
“Nigeria has implemented several identity tracking systems to enhance national security, improve governance, and reduce fraud over the years. These initiatives focus on creating a robust identity management framework that integrates multiple sectors, ranging from finance to telecommunications, immigration, and law enforcement,” the AIG noted.
Also speaking, Chief Momodu appreciated the fact that a woman of Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s capacity was on hand to present his award to him, stressing that he couldn’t have asked for a greater honour.
In the same vein, other speakers and respondents, including a former Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Comrade Ayodele Adewale, found spaces in their lines, to laud the intelligence of the Minister, citing that President Tinubu needs her likes to bring to fruition the promised Eldorado to Nigerians.
Speaking earlier as the Distinguished Guest Speaker, Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim, had highlighted the grace she brought to Police Affairs Ministry, which has seen to both the initiation and execution manifold projects, and their attendant testimonies, including identity tracking for national security.
“As someone deeply invested in the safety and security of our nation, I have spent considerable time reflecting on how best to address Nigeria’s complex security challenges. The more I engage with experts, our police force, and other stakeholders, the clearer it becomes that identity tracking is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal. It is not just about knowing who is in our country; it is about building a system where every identity is securely accounted for, and reducing opportunities for crime,” she said.
Appointed in August 2023 as the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, a distinguished international professional with over two decades of expertise spanning the public, private, and development sectors, has a wealth of experience in conflict management, human capital development, peace building, and national security. She has no doubt established herself as an administrator par excellence.
Well read and well learned, Sulaiman-Ibrahim obtained is a B.Sc in Sociology holder from the University of Abuja. She is reputed have earned two Master’s degrees; an MBA and an MA in Management – both from Webster University, St. Louis (London Campus) at the yiung age of 21.
Reflecting her dedication to continuous professional growth and barefaced love for education, the honorable minister is currently pursuing a Doctorate degree in Security and Strategic Studies at the Nigeria Defence Academy.
In addition to her academic achievements, she co-founded and serves as the President of the BumbleeBee Civic Initiative (formerly The Beehive Initiative), a platform dedicated to mentoring politically inclined women and promoting grassroots civic awareness.
Her public service record is equally impressive and worthy of emulation. As Special Assistant on Strategic Communication and Partnerships to the Minister of State for Education (August 2019 to December 2020), she led the development of the innovative Alternate School Programme, securing Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval for its implementation. She later served as Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), where she significantly improved national efforts to combat human trafficking and address irregular migration.
She has also served as Federal Commissioner and CEO of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). In this role, she launched the “Project 5s” initiative, a comprehensive program aimed at addressing the pressing challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Nigeria.
As a politician, strategist, and award-winning leader, Imaan has garnered recognition for her work in national security, conflict resolution, and human capital development. On July 27, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed her as the Minister of State for Police Affairs, making her the first female to hold this position.
Her glorious stewardship so far is summed in the below lines, which she self-delivered;
“Over the past year, we have made strategic investments in surveillance technologies, drones, and communication systems to boost real-time information gathering and response capabilities. We have also introduced ICT applications such as the RescueMe App and e-CMR (electronic Central Motor Registry) to enhance our epolicing strategy. These platforms have improved efficiency and productivity across our operations.
“Our efforts extend beyond technology; we are committed to community engagement as a fundamental aspect of our security strategy. We have held numerous townhall meetings nationwide to foster grassroots understanding of security dynamics and develop community-specific solutions. We have also strengthened our partnership with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), resulting in better intelligence sharing and collaboration.
“In addition, we are developing a National Policing Policy to enhance the operational capabilities of the NPF and ensure more responsive and responsible policing. We have also launched the NPF Gender Policy to improve the gender balance within the force, and I am proud to announce that our advocacy has led to the inclusion of a female officer in the force’s leadership team.”
Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim is indeed a force to reckon with in administration.
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Toads Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, is set to lead discourse at the forthcoming 2024 National Security Conference of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) bill to hold at the Ballroom of the prestigious Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The ebullient road safety administrator will be featuring as a special guest of honour with other Nigerians towards charting a sustainable path to address Security challenges in the country.
Themed Connecting the Dots Between Identity Tracking and National Security, the 5th edition of the Association’s security Confab is programmed to bring to the fore the various issues militating against smooth tracking of criminals even as the country continue to break barriers in communication technology, and achieve more breakthroughs, and proffer durable solutions.
The event holds on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 10am.
Speaking on the event, the Corps Marshal, through a statement by the Corps’ Public Education Officer, Corps Commander Olusegun Ogungbemide, said he was pleased to speak with the who is who in the Nigerian Security, cybersecurity, media and technology sector on such an important aspect of ‘our national, and in such a national platform’.
Among other distinguished personalities expected at the security parley are the Honourable Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaam Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who will be the Distinguished Keynote Speaker, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Board Member of Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu and the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida.
Other major security stakeholders expected at the meet are Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed A. Audi; Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun; the Managing Director, Executive Trainers Ltd, Dr. Mrs. Ajoke Ogunsan; Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs, CG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NASENI, Engr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada and a host of others.
