#breaking The Nigerian Army

[thatrickmcginnis]

FELA KUTI Toronto 1989

Even though it went unpublished anywhere for over twenty-five years, my 1989 portrait sitting with Nigerian musical legend Fela Kuti is probably one of my most important shoots. It happened because, to put it plainly, I wanted it to happen, and did my level best to make it happen. I was a fan and had photographed Fela at a press conference here in 1987, doing publicity for a concert that ended up not happening for two more years. I was in a bit of a lacuna in my career when a new concert was announced, first at a soccer stadium not far from where I lived, before it was moved to the old Masonic Temple downtown, also known as the Concert Hall. I wasn’t shooting regularly for any publication at the time, so I was working strictly on spec when I contacted Gary Froude, the promoter of the show, to see if I could get permission not just to photograph the concert but possibly a few minutes for a portrait sitting. To my surprise he said yes.

Fela Anikulapo Kuti was born to a prosperous family in Nigeria in 1938 and made his name with Africa 70, his first big band, attracting the attention of musicians like Ginger Baker and Paul McCartney. He also became a vocal opponent of Nigeria’s government, criticizing them as he recorded prolifically, on albums like Confusion, Expensive Shit, Zombie, No Agreement and many others. In 1977 his Lagos compound was raided; Fela as beaten severely and his mother was fatally injured when she was thrown out a window. By the end of the decade he’d formed a new band, Egypt 80, and began releasing records like Army Arrangement and Teacher Don’t Teach Me Nonsense on labels in Europe and America. The Nigerian government jailed him on charges of currency smuggling in 1984, and in 1986 he performed at an Amnesty International concert in Giants Stadium. But ticket sales for his show in Toronto in 1989 were slow, forcing it to be moved to a smaller venue; I’m not sure the promoter made any money on it, but I remember it as one of the best concerts I have ever seen.

I showed up to photography Fela Kuti around soundcheck and set up my modest lighting in a big dressing room in the basement of the Concert Hall on Yonge Street. Most of all I remember that Fela was one of the most intimidating men I have ever met, and that we began the portrait sitting with a series of rather straightforward shots on my Mamiya C330 camera. After finishing a roll Fela signaled for a break; he stretched out on a couch and began smoking the largest joint I had seen in my life for over a half hour. When the portrait session resumed he was, as I once wrote, rather heroically stoned, and these photos were far looser, as Fela glowered and pulled at his face. I’ve included every worthwhile frame I shot that afternoon on this post – the first time many of these shots have ever been published. Fela Kuti died of complications from AIDS in 1997.

I returned that night to shoot the show, going through several rolls of colour and black and white film, after which everything sat in my files for over two decades until I posted a few shots on my old blog. They came to the attention of Rikki Stein, Fela’s onetime manager, who arranged for them to appear for the first time in a 2017 box set of Fela’s records curated by Erykah Badu. Since then my Fela shots have been reprinted frequently; they were featured as part of a nightclub set on the Netflix reboot of the prime time soap Dynasty, on a line of t-shirts made by Carhartt, and in a Fela exhibit in Paris in 2023. Last year one of my live shots of Fela was on the cover of the debut issue of Rolling Stone Africa, which felt like vindication for that spec shoot I’d begged to do almost four decades ago. (Though I still wish they’d gone with one of these portraits.)

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 12.31 (after 1950)

1951 – Cold War: The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than US$13.3 billion in foreign aid to rebuild Western Europe. 1955 – General Motors becomes the first U.S. corporation to make over US$1 billion in a year. 1956 – The Romanian Television network begins its first broadcast in Bucharest. 1961 – RTÉ, Ireland's state broadcaster, launches its first national television service. 1963 – The Central African Federation officially collapses, subsequently becoming Zambia, Malawi and Rhodesia. 1965 – Jean-Bédel Bokassa, leader of the Central African Republic army, and his military officers begin a coup d'état against the government of President David Dacko. 1968 – The first flight of the Tupolev Tu-144, the first civilian supersonic transport in the world. 1968 – MacRobertson Miller Airlines Flight 1750 crashes near Port Hedland, Western Australia, killing all 26 people on board. 1981 – A coup d'état in Ghana removes President Hilla Limann's PNP government and replaces it with the Provisional National Defence Council led by Flight lieutenant Jerry Rawlings. 1983 – The AT&T Bell System is broken up by the United States Government. 1983 – Benjamin Ward is appointed New York City Police Department's first ever African American police commissioner. 1983 – In Nigeria, a coup d'état led by Major General Muhammadu Buhari ends the Second Nigerian Republic. 1991 – All official Soviet Union institutions have ceased operations by this date, five days after the Soviet Union is officially dissolved. 1992 – Czechoslovakia is peacefully dissolved in what is dubbed by media as the Velvet Divorce, resulting in the creation of the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. 1994 – This date is skipped altogether in Kiribati as the Phoenix Islands and Line Islands change time zones from UTC−11:00 to UTC+13:00 and UTC−10:00 to UTC+14:00, respectively. 1994 – The First Chechen War: The Russian Ground Forces begin a New Year's storming of Grozny. 1995 – The final comic of Calvin and Hobbes is published. 1998 – The European Exchange Rate Mechanism freezes the values of the legacy currencies in the Eurozone, and establishes the value of the euro currency. 1999 – The first President of Russia, Boris Yeltsin, resigns from office, leaving Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as the acting President and successor. 1999 – The U.S. government hands control of the Panama Canal (as well all the adjacent land to the canal known as the Panama Canal Zone) to Panama. This act complied with the signing of the 1977 Torrijos–Carter Treaties. 1999 – Indian Airlines Flight 814 hijacking ends after seven days with the release of 190 survivors at Kandahar Airport, Afghanistan. 2004 – The official opening of Taipei 101, the tallest skyscraper at that time in the world, standing at a height of 509 metres (1,670 ft). 2009 – Both a blue moon and a lunar eclipse occur. 2010 – Tornadoes touch down in midwestern and southern United States, including Washington County, Arkansas; Greater St. Louis, Sunset Hills, Missouri, Illinois, and Oklahoma, with a few tornadoes in the early hours. A total of 36 tornadoes touched down, resulting in the deaths of nine people and $113 million in damages. 2011 – NASA succeeds in putting the first of two Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory satellites in orbit around the Moon. 2014 – A New Year's Eve celebration stampede in Shanghai kills at least 36 people and injures 49 others. 2015 – A fire breaks out at the Downtown Address Hotel in Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates, located near the Burj Khalifa, two hours before the fireworks display is due to commence. Sixteen injuries were reported; one had a heart attack, another suffered a major injury, and fourteen others with minor injuries. 2018 – Thirty-nine people are killed after a ten-story building collapses in the industrial city of Magnitogorsk, Russia. 2019 – The World Health Organization is informed of cases of pneumonia with an unknown cause, detected in Wuhan. This later turned out to be COVID-19, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic.

[lboogie1906]

Lieutenant Colonel Chukwuemeka “Emeka” Odumegwu-Ojukwu (November 4, 1933 – November 26, 2011) was a Nigerian military officer, statesman, and politician who served as the military governor of the Eastern Region of Nigeria in 1966 and the leader of the breakaway Republic of Biafra (1967-70). He was active as a politician (1983-2011).

He started his secondary school education at CMS Grammar School, Lagos aged 10. He transferred to King’s College, Lagos in 1944 where he was involved in a controversy leading to his brief imprisonment for assaulting a British teacher who put down a student strike action that he was a part of. This event generated widespread coverage in local newspapers. At 13, his father sent him to the UK to continue his education, first at Epsom College and at Lincoln College, Oxford University, where he earned an MA in History. He returned to colonial Nigeria in 1956.

He joined the civil service in Eastern Nigeria as an Administrative Officer at Udi. In 1957, after two years of working with the colonial civil service and seeking to break away from his father’s influence over his civil service career, he left and joined the military enlisting as an NCO in Zaria.

From Zaria, he proceeded first, to the Royal West African Frontier Force Training School in Teshie, Ghana, and next, to Eaton Hall where he received his commission in March 1958 as a 2nd Lieutenant.

He was one of the first and few university graduates to receive an army commission. He attended the Infantry School in Warminster and the Small Arms School in Hythe. He was assigned to the Army’s Fifth Battalion in Kaduna.

The Nigerian Military Forces had 250 officers and only 15 were Nigerians. There were 6,400 other ranks, of which 336 were British. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1964 and posted to Kano, where he was in charge of the 5th Battalion of the Nigerian Army. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[secular-jew]

Daily Caliphate Headlines: The Repugnant and Vile Voices of the Global Islamic Caliphate:

Syrian Journalist: Supporting Terrorist Organizations In The Name Of Solidarity With The Palestinian Cause Endangers The Middle East

In Speech Leading To Her Arrest, International Coordinator Of Samidoun Charlotte Kates At Vancouver Rally: Long Live October 7; Hamas, PFLP, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hizbullah Are Not Terrorist Groups, They Are Heroes

Muslim American Society Staten Island Imam Abdelrahman Badawy: The Zionist Devils Have Envy, Hatred, Evil In Their Hearts; They Are Like The Sneaky, Cunning, Conniving, Foul Jewish Tribe That Battled The Prophet Muhammad

Islamic State Mozambique Province Releases Photos Showing Operatives Taking Down Crosses, Torching Church In Christian Village In Nampula

Jordanian MPs Join The 'Gaza Freedom Flotilla' In Turkey: We Have Written Our Wills And Are Here With The Intention Of Waging Jihad, Becoming Martyrs; We Will Sacrifice Our Souls And Blood To Redeem Our People; We Will Break The Siege And Join Our Brothers In Gaza

Hamas Senior Official Mousa Abu Marzouk: Most Of Hamas's Leaders Are Jordanian Citizens; If We Had To Leave Qatar, We Would Go To Jordan

The Houthis Seek To Position Themselves As A Regional Power Opposing The U.S. And The West; Houthi Shura Council Member: Everyone Hostile To America Is Our Friend, We Will Welcome Exchange Of Military Expertise

Strengthening Relations With Palestinian Factions; Coordination With Hamas Regarding Crew Of Highjacked "Galaxy Leader" Ship

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) Claims IED Attacks Against Nigerian Army, Affiliated Militia In Borno State; Publishes Photos Of Armed Assault On Army Barracks In Niger's Diffa Region

'Al-Akhbar' Daily: Iran-Backed Militias Deliberately Not Claiming Responsibility For Attacks Against U.S. Forces; Attacks To Continue Until U.S. Forces Withdraw, War In Gaza Ends

Iranian TV Report About Gaza 'Freedom Flotilla,' American Attorney Lamis Deek: The Age Of Israeli Impunity Has Ended; We Will Make Sure Every Israeli Soldier, Settler, Head Of State Pays For Every Crime Committed Against Palestinians Since 1948

Yemeni-Houthi Minister Of Information Dayfallah Al-Shami: We Chant 'Curses Upon The Jews' Because They Are Cunning Schemers; We Would Fight Against The Zionists Directly In Gaza, But It's Too Far Away

English-Language Salafi-Jihadi Telegram Channel Criticizes 'Tamed' Version Of Islam That Limits Jihad; Endorses Terror Attacks In Non-Muslim Countries

In Dari-Language Article, Hizb-ut Tahrir Afghanistan Writes: 'America Is Trying To Influence And Interfere In Afghanistan In Many Ways, Including The Issue Of Women'; 'Women In Western And American Thought Are Nothing More Than A Commodity To Be Used... To Secure The Evil Interests Of Western And American States' 

In Karachi, Suicide Bombers Target Van Carrying Japanese Nationals Working In Pakistan's Export Processing Zone

Sec.-Gen. Of The Arab League Ahmed Aboul Gheit: The Jews Have No Conscience Left – It Was Burned In The Holocaust; Israel Does Not Have The Right To Self-Defense Just Like The Nazis Did Not Have It In WWII

Hamas's Izz Al-Din Al-Qassam Brigades Spokesman Abu Ubaida: We Salute The Heroes In The West Bank And The Jordanian Masses And Call Upon Them To Escalate Their Activity And Resistance

 Pro-Al-Qaeda Media Group Praises Stabbings In Australia, France; Warns 'Crusader Peoples' Against Defaming Islam

Commanders Of Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias Hold Secret Meeting In Syrian City Of Al-Bukamal

Senior Hamas Official Praises Anti-Israel Demonstrations Across U.S.: 'Today's Students Are The Leaders Of Tomorrow'

Hizbullah-Affiliated Academic Sheikh Sadek Al-Naboulsi: The Pre-October 7 Element Of Surprise Has Been Lost, But Hizbullah Is Preparing For Nasrallah's Orders To Cross Into The Galilee At The Right Time

Qatari Shura Council Member Essa Al-Nassr: October 7 Was An Introduction To The Annihilation Of The Zionist State; There Can Be No Peace With Them; They Are The Slayers Of The Prophets

Dearborn, Michigan Friday Sermon By Dr. Baqir Berry: Zionism, Israel Pose An 'Imminent Danger' To Humanity, Like Nazism; The Jews Need To Be Re-educated; In America Too, The Zionists Are Barbaric, Criminal Savages – What Kind Of Peace Can You Have With Them?

Greenville, North Carolina Friday Sermon By Imam Khadem AbuZain: Allah Decreed Friday Sermons In Order To Inspire Youth To Raise The Banner Of Jihad; We Have Become Numb To The Nature Of The Jews, Who Killed Prophets And Apostles, And Strive To Spread Corruption; Gaza Is Harboring The Heroes Of Palestine Who Declared Jihad

[trivalentlinks]

List of all of my Leverage prompts (that I can remember):

(For some of these I've linked other people's (and my own) riffs on them as well, though many of them also have fun riffs in the notes that I didn't link)

(Updated Dec. 20, 2023)

Eliot (& or /) Quinn prompts:

Pre-canon E / or & Q AUs:

-- Quinn (who is from the US) is living in Europe and cannot find canned pumpkin anywhere for Thanksgiving; he tries to steal Eliot's (He is unsuccessful but makes a friend along the way)

-- the other Eliot and Quinn spending Thanksgiving in Europe prompt

-- At the height of Moreau's empire, a mysterious woman hires Quinn to remove Spencer from Moreau's side All does not go according to plan (aka the time loop one) (this is a bit longer and I actually posted it as a fic on AO3, but I do kind of still consider it a prompt in that I would love to see more here.)

-- Eliot on the run from Moreau accidentally mistakes Quinn (who is on vacation/recuperating and not on a job) for someone Moreau sent after him and beats him up

-- A riff on the above where Eliot mistakenly assumes Quinn is a sex worker and gets protective when he comes home from jobs injured/bruised (which happens a lot because Quinn is a hitter)

-- Further riffing on the above, Eliot, still upset at seeing Quinn come back looking roughed up, offers to teach him to fight

-- demon AU: Quinn is a demon Moreau summoned to try to exchange Eliot's soul for demonic powers (it doesn't work out for him)

-- AU where The Nigerian Job happens three years earlier, when Eliot still works for Moreau, so Dubenich hires Quinn instead, but the team ends up on Moreau's bad side and are getting hunted by his private army led by Eliot Spencer

.

Other E/Q AUs

-- darker twist on Quinn was the-Rundown-Job-sniper AU

(Riley didn't try to hire Eliot, so Eliot's not there and Quinn actually succeeds (When he find out what this job was really about, he calls in the favour to help stop the Spanish Flu, and he wrestles with the guilt of almost causing a pandemic))

-- Shifter AU where Eliot and Quinn make fun of each other's animal forms (comparing each other to hapless kittens and pitiful puppies)

(another shifter AU prompt here.)

-- Quinn is de-aged and kid!Quinn thinks Eliot is a mark

-- general request for cliche overdone AUs (coffeeshop au/flowershop au/arranged marriage au/ soulmate au)

(my own and other people's specific coffee-shop and flower-shop AU prompts in the notes here)

(a couple people also had specific ideas for soulmate aus that i adore and totally second (though i personally don't ship the ot3) here)

-- another coffeeshop AU: quinn is recovering from an injury, helping at his ex-hitter friend's coffee-shop while he does, Eliot's there on a job, things get violent (not in a bad way)

.

Non-AU E/Q prompts set post-Last-Dam-Job:

-- Quinn (having joined the team) kills someone on a team job and Nate freaks out, but Eliot supports Quinn's play

-- Eliot and Quinn can't do sparring-as-foreplay because the sparring is too fun and they're too competitive aka "five times they fully intended to have sex (and still had fun) and one time they actually got that far" (this prompt in collaboration with @wolves-in-the-world)

-- Eliot feels guilty about accidentally screwing up and getting Quinn captured on a job. Quinn cheers him up (Kind of. Mostly by being annoying af)

(a slightly softer take here.)

-- Eliot and Quinn playing hide and seek.

-- Quinn goes for a "smoke break" but actually goes outside to blow bubbles with a little bubble wand

-- Kitbull fusion

-- Quinn works with the team sometimes but distrusts all of them except Eliot until he has to work with them to rescue Eliot (because of sample bias and other reasons)

-- After a job goes un-salvageably wrong, Parker hires Quinn to kill a bad guy

-- emotional hurt/comfort where Eliot's the one doing the comforting (a specific idea/scenario for this here, but I'm more interested in the general concept of Eliot providing emotional comfort to Quinn)

-- Quinn doesn't like going to the dentist. Eliot helps. Kind of.

(someone else's more fun/lighthearted take on this here)

-- Eliot and Quinn spar at the MMA gym Eliot goes to, in front of Eliot's friends who have never seen Eliot full-contact sparring/hard rolling before

-- Five times Quinn came back and one time he didn't leave in the first place

Quinn prompts that are NOT Eliot (& or /) Quinn:

-- Quinn, having not gone to middle or high school, has some interesting knowledge gaps that Hardison trips over

-- Quinn/the cake-maker of Kyiv (OR Quinn is the cake-maker of Kyiv)

After all, as Hardison tells us, the cake-maker of Kyiv could whoop all our asses

-- Quinn thinks being in the mile high club means you've murdered someone mid-flight

-- "I drink coffee for your protection", but Quinn doesn't drink coffee

.

non-Quinn prompts:

-- Eliot takes Hardison wild berry picking

(Riffs on this here.)

-- angsty take on Hardison's soda and gummy worms

(softer take here and here)

-- The team learns Sophie's native language (this is AU if you count Leverage Redemption as canon, since that's where it's confirmed that she's actually from the UK)

-- Hardison's hands are too cold to type, so Parker (or Eliot) warms his hands in theirs

(Riffs bordering on a fill for this here)

.

[9jaboizgistworld-blog]

Army Recruitment Portal - How to apply for the Nigerian Army in 2025?

So, you’ve decided to join the Nigerian Army in 2025, huh? Well, you've made a bold and honorable choice! But now, you might be wondering: How do I even begin? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In this guide, I’m going to break down the whole process step-by-step so that you can navigate the Army recruitment portal like a pro. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know exactly what to do—and more importantly, how to do it right! Trust me, this isn’t one of those “endless forms to fill out” type of guides. I’m here to walk you through the process, show you exactly what you need, and make sure you're ready for every step. So, grab a pen and paper—or maybe just open a notes app—and let’s dive into how you can apply for the Nigerian Army in 2025.

Understanding the Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal

Before you can apply, you need to understand the Army Recruitment Portal—the website that’s your gateway to joining the Nigerian Army. You won’t find any paper forms here, folks. Everything’s online, which makes it both faster and more efficient. The Army Recruitment Portal (officially known as the Nigerian Army recruitment website) is where all the magic happens. This is where you’ll fill out your personal details, upload necessary documents, and submit your application for consideration. Sounds easy, right? But there’s more to it. Tip: Make sure you’re visiting the official portal. You don’t want to fall for scams or fake sites. A quick Google search for “Nigerian Army recruitment 2025 portal” should get you to the official site, which is always .mil.ng.

Prerequisites for Joining the Nigerian Army - Requirement

Alright, so before you can apply, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements. These are the basic conditions you need to meet to even start the application process: - Age: Generally, you need to be between 18 and 22 years old for regular soldiers. For tradesmen and women, it’s a bit older, with the maximum age extending to 26. - Nationality: You must be a Nigerian citizen. It’s pretty clear-cut. - Educational Qualifications: Depending on the position, you’ll need at least a WASSCE (West African Senior School Certificate Examination) or an equivalent qualification. For specialized roles, like those in technical fields, you might need further education. - Physical and Medical Fitness: Don’t think you can just fill out the form and get away with it! The Nigerian Army has strict physical and medical fitness standards. This means you’ll need to pass a series of tests to prove you're in top condition. I’m sure you're wondering, "How do I even know if I meet these requirements?" Easy. There are usually detailed instructions on the recruitment page about what you need. Just double-check everything before submitting your application.

How to Register on the Army Recruitment Portal

Once you’re sure you meet the eligibility requirements, it’s time to register. Here’s how you do it: - Visit the Recruitment Portal: Go to the official Nigerian Army recruitment website. - Create an Account: You’ll be prompted to create an account with your email and a password. It’s simple but make sure you use a valid email address. Why? Because the Army will send important updates and information about your application to that email! - Fill Out the Form: After registering, fill in your personal details, including your full name, contact information, and education background. Make sure you’re accurate here—one small mistake and your application could be rejected. - Upload Documents: You’ll need to upload scanned copies of your educational certificates, passport-sized photo, and other documents as required. Make sure the quality is good! Nothing too blurry. - Submit Your Application: Once you’ve double-checked everything, hit submit! If your application is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email with further instructions. And that’s it for the registration process. Simple, right?

Where to Apply: Official Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal

To apply for the Nigerian Army in 2025, you'll need to visit the official recruitment portal: Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal This is the legitimate website where you can find all the necessary information and submit your application. Important Tips: - Verify the URL: Always ensure you're on the official portal to avoid scams. - Stay Updated: Regularly check the portal for updates on recruitment periods and deadlines. - Prepare Your Documents: Have all required documents ready for upload to streamline your application process. By following these steps and utilizing the official portal, you'll be well-prepared to apply for the Nigerian Army in 2025.

What Happens After You Submit Your Application?

So, you’ve filled out your details, uploaded the necessary documents, and clicked “submit.” What now? Well, this is where the waiting game begins. The Nigerian Army will start reviewing applications, and if you’re shortlisted, you’ll be invited to take part in further stages of the selection process. Important: Always check your email for any updates. You might be invited for a screening test, which usually includes a physical fitness assessment, a written exam, and possibly an interview. Now, I know the waiting can be tough, but trust me, it’s all worth it. Just keep an eye out for any emails or text messages from the Nigerian Army.

Prepare for the Nigerian Army Recruitment Screening

The real challenge starts when you’re called in for the screening. But don’t sweat it—preparation is key. Here's what you need to focus on: - Physical Fitness: The physical tests are no joke. You’ll have to show that you can handle the tough demands of Army life. I recommend getting into a fitness routine early on to make sure you’re up to the task. - Written Exam: You’ll need to brush up on your general knowledge, math, and English. Review past questions or take practice tests online to improve your chances. - Interview: The interview is a chance for them to get to know you better. Make sure you can explain why you want to join the Nigerian Army and what you bring to the table. Make sure you take the preparation seriously. I can’t stress enough how important it is to be physically and mentally prepared for these assessments. Stay fit, stay sharp, and you’ll stand out.

Final Selection and Induction

If you pass all the screening stages, congratulations! You’re in. The final selection is where you’ll receive the call for induction into the Nigerian Army. This is when your official training begins, and you’ll start the journey toward becoming a part of one of the most respected military forces in Africa. Takeaway: The application process may seem long, but don’t get discouraged. Follow each step, stay organized, and give it your best shot. You’re one step away from a life-changing opportunity in the Nigerian Army. If you follow the instructions and put in the effort, the future looks bright!

What to Do if You're Not Selected: Don’t Lose Hope!

Let’s face it, not everyone gets through the recruitment process the first time. It’s tough. But if you’re not selected, it doesn’t mean the end of the road. Here’s what you can do: - Reflect and Improve: Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses. Were you physically prepared? Did you nail the written exam? Or was it your interview skills? Whatever it is, use the feedback (if any) to level up for the next recruitment period. - Stay Updated: Keep your eyes on the Army recruitment portal for the next opening. Often, there are different recruitment periods throughout the year. Be proactive and get your application in early! - Try Other Routes: If you're passionate about serving your country but didn’t make it into the Army, consider looking into other branches of the military or security forces. There are always opportunities for people who want to make a difference. The important thing here is not to give up! If you’re committed to this path, the right opportunity will come.

How to Stand Out: Tips to Get Noticed by the Nigerian Army

Want to increase your chances of getting in? Of course, you do! Here are a few ways to stand out during the recruitment process: - Perfect Your Physical Fitness: You might have passed the fitness test on your first try, but can you crush it in the Army boot camp? Work on your strength, endurance, and agility. The better prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel. - Sharpen Your Skills: Whether it’s improving your knowledge of current events, acing your math skills, or showing your leadership potential, every little bit helps. Invest time in preparation! - Be Confident, But Humble: When it comes to interviews, the right balance of confidence and humility can make all the difference. Show them you're eager to learn, but that you’ve also got what it takes to be a soldier. - Pay Attention to Detail: Whether you’re submitting documents or completing forms, make sure everything is neat, legible, and accurate. Army life is all about attention to detail, and this is your first chance to show you’ve got it.

Why Joining the Nigerian Army is Worth It

I’m not just writing this to get you through the recruitment process—I’m writing this because I want you to understand just how amazing this journey can be. There are huge benefits to joining the Nigerian Army, from financial security to career development and personal growth. - Job Security: The Nigerian Army offers stable employment, with regular pay, allowances, and pensions. - Skills and Training: Whether it’s combat training, leadership, or specialized skills in technology or engineering, the Army provides an opportunity for personal development that few other careers offer. - Serving Your Country: There's something incredibly rewarding about wearing the uniform and defending the country. The pride and honor that come with serving are unmatched. - Career Progression: The Nigerian Army offers various career paths, so you can advance in rank and develop professionally. It’s not just a job—it’s a career.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Recruitment Process

I know you want to get this right the first time. So let’s quickly go over some common mistakes that can trip up potential recruits, and how you can avoid them: - Skipping the Fine Print: Read the recruitment guidelines carefully! Sometimes, there are specific instructions that could trip you up if you miss them. - Missing the Deadline: Stay on top of deadlines for registration, documentation submission, and screening dates. Mark them on your calendar so you don’t miss out. - Lack of Preparation: Don’t think you can just wing it and get in. Take the time to prepare physically and mentally. The more effort you put in, the better your chances. - Submitting Low-Quality Documents: I’ve mentioned this before, but it’s important to upload clear, well-scanned documents. If they can’t read your certificates or see your face in your photo, your application could be rejected.

Conclusion: You’re Ready to Take the Next Step

Alright, now you know exactly what to do to apply for the Nigerian Army in 2025. You’ve got the roadmap to success! This isn’t just about filling out forms or clicking a button—it’s about committing to a life of service and discipline. If you’ve got the right attitude, a strong work ethic, and the willingness to learn, the Nigerian Army could be the perfect place for you. Remember, the process may seem challenging, but it’s totally doable. Take it one step at a time, stay motivated, and don’t let setbacks discourage you. Your dream of joining the Nigerian Army is within reach. So go ahead—start your application now, and good luck!   Read the full article

[gurutrends]

BREAKING: Tinubu Postpones FEC Meeting Over Nigerian Army Chief, Lagbaja’s Death, Orders Seven-Day Mourning

The meeting was initially slated for today (Wednesday), but had to be postponed in honour of Late Lagbaja, who passed away on Tuesday night. President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate postponement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting following the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja. It was learnt that the postponement was indefinite as the President…

[ejesgistnews]

Tinubu Elevates Acting Chief of Army Staff Olufemi Oluyede to Lieutenant General Amid Uncertainty Surrounding Ailing Lt. Gen. Lagbaja.  President Bola Tinubu has officially promoted Major General Olufemi Oluyede, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, to the rank of Lieutenant General. The promotion ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, according to sources from SaharaReporters. Read Also: Breaking: FG Makes U-Turn, Reverses 18-Year Admission Age Benchmark in Tertiary Institutions This move comes just a week after President Tinubu appointed Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff to fill in for the ailing substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu, announced the news in a recent statement. Background on Lt. Gen. Oluyede Before his current role, Oluyede, 56, served as the 56th Commander of the Nigerian Army’s elite Infantry Corps based in Jaji, Kaduna. His military career began in 1992 when he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, and he rose to the rank of Major General in September 2020. Pay Attention To: US Presidential Election Live Results: Kamala Harris vs Donald Trump In a statement regarding his promotion, President Tinubu remarked, “Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede has been appointed as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.” The Situation of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja The fate of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja remains uncertain. Earlier reports revealed that he had been secretly flown abroad for medical treatment following a prolonged absence from official duties. Also Read : Newly Promoted NSCDC Officer Dies Suddenly After Receiving First Salary Sources indicate that his health has raised concerns among top military officials, prompting intense competition for his position due to fears surrounding his potential return to office. Major General Olufemi Oluyede Biography, Family, Career, State of Origin Lagbaja, who was born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, was appointed as the 27th Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu in June 2023. He took office on June 23, 2023, replacing Faruk Yahaya. The Chief of Army Staff plays a crucial role, reporting to the Chief of Defence Staff, who, in turn, reports to the Defence Minister and ultimately to the President of Nigeria. Health Concerns and Leadership Void Sources described Lagbaja's ailment as "strange" and indicated that he had not been seen at the Army headquarters or any military functions for over three weeks. One insider stated, “The Chief of Army Staff is nowhere to be found. He hasn’t been seen for many days now. I can confirm he is seriously sick and was taken to the hospital, but his family arranged for him to be moved out of the country for treatment.” The current leadership void has left many Major Generals in the Nigerian Army in a state of uncertainty, as they lack direct guidance during this critical period. As the military awaits Lagbaja's recovery, the pressure mounts on Oluyede to lead effectively in his new capacity as Lieutenant General.

[ghanashowbizonline]

News Today - How much is Nigeria army salary

🚨 Watch Full Video Here – Part 1 ift.tt/EGxOvRN Ghana News Today – we break all trending daily news as it happens. Get daily comprehensive summary of the recent news, sports news & top stories that have rocked the online scene. The Nigerian Army is a respected force that keeps the country safe. If you’re thinking about joining the Army, you probably have a lot of questions, and one of the most…

[ghlagatindotcom]

Fight breaks out as military officers clash with youth wearing military uniforms

A dramatic scene unfolded in Ajegunle Alagbado, Lagos, as a man posing as a Nigerian soldier was apprehended by military personnel. The impostor, clad in Army camouflage, refused to cooperate with the soldiers, sparking a intense physical altercation. Eyewitnesses captured the brawl on video, showing the fake soldier engaging in a fierce fight with two military officers. Onlookers gathered…

[warningsine]

Chigozie Obioma is the Nigerian author of the novels The Fishermen (2015) and An Orchestra of Minorities (2019), both shortlisted for the Booker Prize for their unique, folkloric tales of Nigerian life in decades past. Like them, his 2024 novel The Road to the Country is “tinged with fable and prophecy”. It’s set in the brutal Nigerian Civil War of 1967-1960, fought between Nigeria and the Republic of Biafra, a secessionist state which had declared its independence. This epic story of “a young man seeking redemption in a country on fire” is about a shy Lagos student whose brother disappears during the war. He sets out to find him and make right something that happened in the past. We asked Obioma about the work.

Why did you undertake this story; how did it reveal itself?

I knew I wanted to write this book from very early on. In 1993, during a visit to my parents’ eastern village for the first time, I saw a lot of people with physical deformities of all sorts. I was surprised by this, having grown up in a city where I hardly saw anything of that sort. I asked my mother why these people were like this and she said to me, simply: “The war”. The village is in the former Biafran territory.

That stuck with me, and I never forgot it, so that, years later, I began to research the war very avidly and as I read and read, I realised I was going to be writing about it.

Then a couple of years ago, I had the idea of a Yoruba man from the west of Nigeria being conscripted to fight for Biafra, whose army was primarily made up of Igbos and minority groups. That gave me the window into the story and, almost immediately, I found the narrative pulse of the novel, which is centred on the journey into war of a man called Kunle looking to atone for a mistake he made as a child and ending up finding love and regeneration.

Was it a painful experience to recreate the war scenes?

I think so – this is historical fiction and I was looking to recreate a time in history that has not received as much attention as it should. And these events actually happened to people. I know it’s a cliché to say that people who have experienced the horrors of war, especially combatants, do not like to speak about it, but Biafra is especially unique in that this was a war of unequal forces to the nth degree.

As I depict in the novel, much of the time the Biafrans were fighting without weapons. We are talking of a company of 70 soldiers with only 40 rifles and very limited ammunition going against a federal unit equipped with tanks and heavy weapons and aerial support.

Why is family and brotherhood such a central concern of yours?

I am interested in relationships, which for me is the energy for storytelling. How do people form connections, break those connections, and sometimes attempt to put those connections back together again? This is what I am interested in investigating in stories, and it so happens that familial relationships have been part of that (The Fishermen).

I have also explored varied relationships including romantic relationships between a man and a woman and a mystical relationship between a man and his spirit (An Orchestra of Minorities). In The Road to the Country, I investigate the relationship between Kunle and his comrades, and a romantic relationship between him and his love interest, Agnes. So, while brotherhood features in many of these novels, it has not been the only focus.

What role does Igbo identity play in the work?

I believe that a writer is a sum of herself. There is the sense of who you are, have become and are becoming. These are the things that shape your writing to a degree. That is to say that these things are malleable, and must constantly change or, at least, shift.

Identity is too stiff, too anchored to be useful for the serious writer – I think. So, it doesn’t play a role. That said, it is obvious that I am interested in Igbo worldview, cultures, traditions and history.

Part of the reason for this interest is that I see a lot of unmined treasures for storytelling there, rather than for any sentimental reason. But I am also curious about the Yoruba cultures, American, Turkish, Danish, Swedish, Indian, Jamaican and all the places I have lived in or am interested in.

That said, outside the page, I am of course Igbo, Nigerian, African, Black…

Why the war? Why is a younger Nigerian writer interested in it?

I don’t know who wouldn’t be interested in something of that scale. The Biafran War of Independence was a catastrophe of epic proportions in the history of Nigeria. It reshaped the country and helped birth Nigeria as we know it today.

I wanted to write this novel because I was surprised to find that there was an abundance of non-fiction written about the war. There is some war-time fiction: that is, fiction in which the war is the backdrop. What you don’t find are many war novels: fiction in which the war is the central focus. I wanted to write a novel very much focused on the war, like All Quiet on the Western Front, a novel by Erich Maria Remarque, which depicts the fighting in the first world war.

What do you want readers to take away?

I framed the novel as a general warning on the consequences of not engaging in dialogue. What starts wars? Isn’t it often years of neglect, inability to arrive at a meaningful dialogue and shared understanding? That is why large scale violence is still occurring today.

So, the war portion of the novel itself has been presented to us in its entirety as a vision of the future so that it appears as if this war, though a historical fact, has not yet happened and can somehow be prevented if only we heed the warnings of the seer. The prime question for any society in this world then is this: who is or are your seers? Are we listening to them?

[matthewegbe-blog]

📰 🆕Breaking: Nigerian Army Declared 8 Individuals WANTED In Connection With The 17 Personnel Killed At Okuama Community.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.30 (after 1930)

1937 – Memorial Day massacre: Chicago police shoot and kill ten labor demonstrators. 1941 – World War II: Manolis Glezos and Apostolos Santas climb the Athenian Acropolis and tear down the German flag. 1942 – World War II: One thousand British bombers launch a 90-minute attack on Cologne, Germany. 1943 – The Holocaust: Josef Mengele becomes chief medical officer of the Zigeunerfamilienlager (Romani family camp) at Auschwitz concentration camp. 1948 – A dike along the flooding Columbia River breaks, obliterating Vanport, Oregon within minutes. Fifteen people die and tens of thousands are left homeless. 1958 – Memorial Day: The remains of two unidentified American servicemen, killed in action during World War II and the Korean War respectively, are buried at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. 1959 – The Auckland Harbour Bridge, crossing the Waitemata Harbour in Auckland, New Zealand, is officially opened by Governor-General Charles Lyttelton, 10th Viscount Cobham. 1961 – The long-time Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo is assassinated in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. 1961 – Viasa Flight 897 crashes after takeoff from Lisbon Airport, killing 61. 1963 – A protest against pro-Catholic discrimination during the Buddhist crisis is held outside South Vietnam's National Assembly, the first open demonstration during the eight-year presidency of Ngo Dinh Diem. 1966 – Former Congolese Prime Minister, Évariste Kimba, and several other politicians are publicly executed in Kinshasa on the orders of President Joseph Mobutu. 1967 – The Nigerian Eastern Region declares independence as the Republic of Biafra, sparking a civil war. 1968 – Charles de Gaulle reappears publicly after his flight to Baden-Baden, West Germany, and dissolves the French National Assembly by a radio appeal. Immediately after, less than one million of his supporters march on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. This is the turning point of May 1968 events in France. 1971 – Mariner program: Mariner 9 is launched to map 70% of the surface, and to study temporal changes in the atmosphere and surface, of Mars. 1972 – The Angry Brigade goes on trial over a series of 25 bombings throughout the United Kingdom. 1972 – In Ben Gurion Airport (at the time: Lod Airport), Israel, members of the Japanese Red Army carry out the Lod Airport massacre, killing 24 people and injuring 78 others. 1974 – The Airbus A300 passenger aircraft first enters service. 1975 – European Space Agency is established. 1979 – Downeast Flight 46 crashes on approach to Knox County Regional Airport in Rockland, Maine, killing 17. 1982 – Cold War: Spain joins NATO. 1989 – Tiananmen Square protests of 1989: The 10-metre high "Goddess of Democracy" statue is unveiled in Tiananmen Square by student demonstrators. 1990 – Croatian Parliament is constituted after the first free, multi-party elections, today celebrated as the National Day of Croatia. 1998 – The 6.5 Mw  Afghanistan earthquake shook the Takhar Province of northern Afghanistan with a maximum Mercalli intensity of VII (Very strong), killing around 4,000–4,500. 1998 – Nuclear Testing: Pakistan conducts an underground test in the Kharan Desert. It is reported to be a plutonium device with yield of 20kt TNT equivalent. 2003 – Depayin massacre: At least 70 people associated with the National League for Democracy are killed by government-sponsored mob in Burma. Aung San Suu Kyi flees the scene, but is arrested soon afterwards. 2008 – Convention on Cluster Munitions is adopted. 2008 – TACA Flight 390 overshoots the runway at Toncontín International Airport in Tegucigalpa, Honduras and crashes, killing five people. 2012 – Former Liberian president Charles Taylor is sentenced to 50 years in prison for his role in atrocities committed during the Sierra Leone Civil War. 2013 – Nigeria passes a law banning same-sex marriage.

[podcasttoday]

Home Beyond Hell by Karen Yakey

Book Summary:

Captain Ethan Evans has been running from his for two years. Europe is a big place. He and his outlaw army of ex-soldiers are good at surviving, but commandeering a crumbling Dutch fort in the Netherlands might be just another mistake. Hidden by a mask and robe, his scorched, scarred body is a constant reminder of what he did…and of what he deserves. Maybe 2066 will be the year his enemies catch up and put his head on a pike. Because vengeance is a ruthless hunter.

Home is full of painful memories for Vanessa Brouwer. She yearns for a change and a chance to find a soul mate. But who knew some freaky Phantom of the Opera wannabe and his band of marauders would take over the fort she’s trying to escape? His attitude is icier than a North Holland winter, but something fierce burns beneath that mysterious exterior. And the more he melts, the more she wants to see what’s behind his dark disguise and even darker mood swings.

Now, despite the deadly threat drawing closer, the one thing they can’t seem to escape is each other.

Purchase Link – Amazon, Bookshop.org

Reviews:

Manhattan Book Review

Vanessa Brouwer’s goal to travel and find the ideal person for her after splitting up with her partner is derailed when marauders overrun her little rural corner of Europe. Surprisingly, she finds Captain Ethan Evans, a leader among the marauders, incredibly appealing, which becomes more apparent the more she interacts with him. Ethan, who is highly respected by his soldiers, has a stern look that makes him even more attractive as she fantasizes about tearing down his defenses and getting him to show more emotions. Will Vanessa eventually break the harsh and unyielding soldier who has invaded her home, or will he continue to exploit his victims unchecked? Set in 2066, Karen Yakey’s Home Beyond Hell is a suspense-filled, addictive, and captivatingly dark narrative that combines love with some heinous human crimes in a chaotic, violent world. I truly appreciated this well-written piece, which is deftly recounted from the perspectives of two characters: Vanessa and Ethan. These two, who are from two separate worlds, struggle with their feelings for each another as they contend with the possibility of further upheaval in an already unstable environment. Karen has a talent for hooking the reader, luring them, and keeping them interested with well-placed, hotly sensual moments. Just as I thought Vanessa and Ethan were finally getting closer, something would happen to interrupt it and keep me waiting for the next opportunity for them to give in to their intense affection for each other. The intricate relational dynamics are matched by regular revelations of the protagonist’s thoughts, giving readers a deeply intimate experience. Ethan, for example, is seen in a situation where he must defend his position as a leader, and when he is assaulted, he considers the message he would be sending to his foes before responding. I was surprised to hear Yorùbá spoken in a particular scene with a Nigerian character, which made the tale more inclusive in my opinion. The book also depicts political developments in Ukraine, Russia, China, and the Netherlands, broadening the scope of the narrative and making its futuristic world details feel more real and believable—for example, isolationist countries are depicted to be struggling to protect themselves in the aftermath of China’s economic collapse. This novel is a must-read for mature readers that fancy a steady supply of interesting and unusual twists, multiple sexually tense moments, and deep messages about right and wrong. Overall, Home Beyond Hell provides readers with an exciting page-turner as well as a resource that teaches them about the dangers of power lust and the silent power of love, which can light a spark even in the coldest of hearts.

~ Foluso Falaye, Manhattan Book Review

About the Author:

Karen Yakey writes novels for adult readers who enjoy a cocktail of romance, humor, and action with a dark-drama chaser. Though her literary leanings harken back to a Master’s degree in literature, linguistics, and communications, she has spent twenty-three years in global corporations within the tech world and financial services, which helps feed an appetite for diverse experiences. A self-professed queen of beer-brewing and brisket-smoking, she has pulled up her Texas roots to plant them in Florida. Owing to a love of traveling throughout Europe, she has sought to imbue this story with an honest sense of how a simple human connection can bridge any border or culture.

The blog on her website at www.KarenYakey.com is where her introspective, often hyperbolic, humor goes to play, and pessimism has no place there. Please reach out anytime, sign up for her newsletter, and feel free to follow her on Twitter & Instagram (@KarenYakey) and Facebook (Facebook.com/KarenYakey).

[whattheabcxyz]

2023-12-27

Singapore

Jail for man who threatened doctors & nurses with Swiss Army knife & hurled vulgarities at them - drugs most likely to blame for his behaviour

Serangoon North shop owners frustrated over MRT construction barriers affecting sales

MOH says HIV disclosure law being reviewed - under current law, those with HIV/AIDS or who suspect themselves of having it must disclose their condition to their partner; advocacy groups argue that this is counterproductive to health goals

Singapore port hits all-time high of 3b gross tons in vessel arrivals this year

$15m plan by industry body to drive up chartered accountant numbers here

Indian family gets scammed trying to buy organic eggs off Facebook - they were sent a phishing link as usual, which they stupidly clicked on & used to enter their bank details, & now they are insisting that the banks take partial responsibility for their actions 😣

Money mule hiring spree goes digital as crime syndicates turn to Telegram

Bookshops, art dealers & theatre companies worry consumers will cut non-essential spending next year when GST is raised yet again - maybe then don't go into businesses like these if you're worried about making a decent living?! 🙄

30 people under probe after multi-agency anti-crime blitz in Geylang

2 women arrested for evading roadblock

Condo rents decreased for 4th consecutive month in Nov, but HDB rents rebounded

Science

Scientists destroy 99% of cancer cells in the lab using vibrating molecules - well, it's not 100%, & it wasn't done in humans

Nature

Reindeer can not only sleep with their eyes open, but also do other stuff (like chewing their food) while sleeping!

Art

^ This isn't a real human, but a sculpture!!! 😳

Home

Ceiling fan blade breaks off while in use - the family whose home the fan was installed in was luckily unharmed as they were not in the room; the fan had only been in use for 4 years

People

Parasite actor Lee Sun-Kyun found dead of apparent suicide - he'd been under investigation for drug use

Food

Stall owner in China beats customer up for adding "too much" vinegar to his meal - well, this just about sums up the Chinese mentality of everything revolving around $$$ & $$$ alone!!!

Gossip

K-pop star Park Bom's latest plastic surgery fail - those heavily plastic-surgeried pop stars & actresses all look like carbon copies of one another now

Entertainment

BBC's adaptation of Agatha Christie's "Murder Is Easy" sees protagonist changed from white colonial police officer to black Nigerian - when're they going to a do a black adaptation of Mulan or Pocahontas then? lol

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade BREAKING; Nigerian claims responsibility for bombing Kaduna Residents The Nigerian Army has said it is responsible for the bombing of villagers during a Maulud Nabiy celebration at Tudun Biriin in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The army, however, said the airstrikes were inadvertent, saying operatives were targeting terrorists. About 30 residents were feared dead in the airstrikes on Sunday night. Samuel Aruwan, Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State, said in a statement on Monday that the Army claimed responsibility for the unfortunate incident. “The Kaduna State Government has received briefings on Sunday night’s attack which left several citizens dead and others injured. In a meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, which had in attendance heads of security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, the Nigerian Army explained the circumstances which led to the unfortunate and unintended attack. “The General Officer Commanding One Division Nigerian Army, Major VU Okoro explained that the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists but inadvertently affected members of the community,” the statement read in part. It further stated that the deputy governor at the end of the closed door meeting conveyed condolences of the government and people of Kaduna State to the families that lost their loved ones. “As of the time of this update, search-and-rescue efforts are still ongoing, as dozens of injured victims have been evacuated to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital by the Government. “Heads of security agencies who attended the meeting include the Commissioner of Police, MY Garba, and Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) Abdul Eneche. The Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter of Jam’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) Professor Shafi’u Abdullahi, led other religious leaders. Also present at meeting was the District of Rigasa, Alhaji Aminu Idris in whose domain the incident occurred,” the statement added.