This directive was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, following the CDS’s operational visit to the brigade located in Samaru, Kataf, Kaduna State.

The statement noted that the visit was primarily aimed at assessing the combat readiness of the brigade and identifying operational challenges facing troops, with a view to addressing them effectively.

According to Uba, the mission also focused on strengthening efforts to eliminate terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities previously widespread in the area before the brigade was established in 2024.

During his address to the troops, the CDS commended their level of alertness and professionalism, urging them to remain disciplined, dedicated, and fully committed to their duties.

He further encouraged them to adopt innovative strategies to stay ahead of criminal elements, stressing the need for proactive thinking in operations.

“You must keep outwitting criminals by anticipating their actions and evolving effective countermeasures. We will continue to support you with the necessary equipment, enablers and platforms and ensure your welfare is given priority,” he stated.

Earlier, the Commander of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade, Navy Captain O.J. Ekuma, highlighted key achievements of the unit, including the neutralisation of criminals, recovery of weapons and rustled cattle, rescue of kidnapped victims, and the arrest of high-profile bandits and their collaborators.

He added that the brigade had also disrupted the movement of criminal elements within its operational area, leading to improved security in the region.

As part of the visit, the CDS inspected ongoing Defence Headquarters projects and military deployments, directing the provision of essential operational equipment where gaps were identified.

The CDS was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Operations, Maj. Gen. J.H. Abdussalam; GOC 3 Division, Maj. Gen. E.F. Oyinlola; and other senior military officers.

The visit reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to enhancing troop welfare, bridging operational gaps, and improving overall efficiency in ongoing security operations.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, was filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who is asking the court to declare Jonathan constitutionally ineligible to run for president again.

Jideobi argued that the former president has already reached the constitutional limit of two terms, noting that he first completed the tenure of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2010 before winning a full term in the 2011 election.

On April 28, Justice Peter Lifu ordered that hearing notices be served on all defendants after they failed to respond within the required timeframe.

Jonathan is listed as the first defendant, while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney-General of the Federation are named as second and third defendants respectively.

The plaintiff is seeking an order restraining Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party as a candidate in the 2027 election, as well as preventing INEC from accepting or publishing his name as a contestant.

In an affidavit filed in support of the suit, Emmanuel Agida stated that Jonathan assumed office on May 6, 2010, following the death of President Yar’Adua.

He added that reports of a possible 2027 presidential comeback prompted the legal action, insisting that Jonathan has already served the maximum constitutional tenure allowed.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Jonathan’s court appearance on Friday may coincide with a potential declaration of interest in the 2027 presidential race, including a possible announcement of his political platform.

The former president, who led Nigeria from 2011 to 2015 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), recently indicated openness to a return to politics, saying he would consult widely before making a final decision.

“Presidential race is not a computer game. But I’ve heard you, and I’ll consult widely,” he told a group of youths who urged him to contest, adding that his focus remains on giving young Nigerians hope.