CAS Honours Troops At Eid-el-Fitr Luncheon As NAF Intensifies Pressure On Terrorist In Makurdi

CAS honours troops at Eid-el-Fitr luncheon as NAF intensifies pressure on terrorist in Makurdi. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to sustaining intensified air operations against terrorist and criminal elements, even as he honoured troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon in Makurdi.

Represented at the event by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the CAS conveyed his profound appreciation for the courage, discipline and sacrifices of personnel deployed within the theatre.

The occasion, marking the successful completion of Ramadan, provided an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of unity, resilience and selfless service that continue to underpin the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.

Addressing the evolving security dynamics in the North-Central region, the CAS assured troops that the Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in prosecuting intelligence-driven air campaigns designed to degrade the operational capabilities of terrorists and criminal networks.

He emphasised the sustained employment of precision strikes, close air support and armed reconnaissance missions in synergy with sister Services and other security agencies, noting that these coordinated efforts have significantly disrupted adversary logistics, command structures and freedom of movement.

The recent operational gains recorded within the theatre were attributed to the professionalism, determination and joint operational synergy demonstrated by personnel on the frontlines.

In his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, commended the dedication and high morale of personnel, emphasising the importance of sustained operational focus and unity of purpose in confronting emerging threats.

The Air Component Commander, Wing Commander OO Evulobi, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the continued support of the Chief of the Air Staff and the collective efforts of all stakeholders in advancing operational success.

NAF

The CAS further highlighted ongoing investments in modern air platforms, advanced training and enhanced welfare initiatives, while urging personnel to remain vigilant, disciplined and resolute in sustaining efforts towards achieving lasting peace, stability and national prosperity.

Works Minister Umahi Raise Alarm Over Misuse Of Roads, Warns Against Parking Of Tankers, Others

Works Minister Umahi raise alarm over misuse of roads, warns against parking of tankers, Others. As young engineers set to understudy the project under the President’s mentorship program

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON has raised serious concern over the damaging practice of parking fuel tankers and other heavy-duty vehicles on newly constructed roads, warning that such actions pose direct threat to the durability and lifespan of critical national infrastructure.

The Minister made this known during an inspection of the Aleto Bridge project, Rivers State on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

“Yesterday I was passing through this road, the entire road we have completed was totally blocked… not by moving vehicles but fuel tankers, they parked on the road.”

He emphasized that no road infrastructure is designed to withstand prolonged static loading from heavy vehicles.

“No road project anywhere in the world is designed for static loads, they will destroy the road.”

With the total project cost exceeding ₦230 billion ₦156 billion for phase one and ₦83 billion for phase two the Minister stressed that such investments must be protected.

“Is that what we should fold our hands and allow it to be destroyed?”

The Minister expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work being delivered by the contractor, RCC, while also commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his decisive intervention in sustaining the project.

“I want to thank RCC very highly and commend Mr President for his heart of love toward the Niger Delta,” the Minister stated.

He explained that although funding by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited ceased in August 2025, the President promptly approved an alternative funding mechanism, ensuring that work continued uninterrupted.

“We are not owing RCC on this project… it is a very, very highly skilled and technical project and I’m very happy with the quality of work.”

The Minister described the Aleto Bridge Project as a landmark engineering effort, incorporating modern concrete pavement technology, solar-powered lighting, environmental landscaping, and reinforced structural features.

In line with the Federal Government’s commitment to human capital development, the Minister disclosed plans to integrate young Nigerian engineers into the project through a mentorship programme championed by President Tinubu.

“We are making efforts on President Tinubu mentorship programme where young engineers will come and study what we’re doing here. They are our future leaders and it is a technical project to behold.”

Providing an update on timelines, the Minister noted that one carriageway of the project is expected to be completed before May 25, 2026, with the first phase projected for full completion by August 2026.

“They have promised me that before May 25th that one carriageway of this very innovative construction will be completed and before August the first phase of this project would have been totally completed.”

He further expressed confidence that the second phase, which includes multiple flyovers and bridges, will be delivered within the year.

Works Minister Umahi

The Minister also highlighted the strategic redesign of the project from asphalt to concrete pavement, a decision directed by the President to ensure long-term durability.

“We inherited this project from zero ground. It was the President that directed that we should redesign using concrete and then you can see the result.”

The Honourable Minister concluded by calling on Nigerians, particularly road users and transport operators, to take collective responsibility in safeguarding public infrastructure.

“Let us protect our own. The minister cannot be here and everywhere. The road is being done and it’s been perfectly done but we have a duty to protect it.”

Francis Nwaze, FIPMD
Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media)
March 22, 2026.

Remi Tinubu Condemns Ozoro ‘Rape Festival’, Says “No Tradition Allows Violation Of Women’s Rights”

Remi Tinubu condemns Ozoro ‘rape festival. Mrs Tinubu maintained that no custom can justify violence or abuse against women.

In a statement on her X page on Sunday, Mrs Tinubu said she watched “horrific viral footage” showing girls being physically and sexually assaulted and subjected to humiliation and cruel treatment during what was meant to be a community celebration.

While expressing respect for Nigeria’s diverse cultures and traditions, she mentioned that no custom can justify violence or abuse against women.

Oluremi Tinubu

“No tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl,” she said.

The first lady commended the Nigeria Police Force for the arrest of suspects and urged authorities to ensure that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

She also encouraged victims to seek medical and psychological help, and offered her prayers.