Military Dismisses Alleged Presence of Terrorist Elements in FCT

• Boko Haram lost, education won as 12 rescued Chibok girls Graduate at AUN

Daji Sani in Yola and Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian military has dismissed reports of alleged infiltration of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by elements of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), particularly around fringe communities, describing the claims as unfounded and lacking any verifiable evidence.

The military high command also disclosed plans to investigate the killing of a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in Abuja, even as it highlighted significant operational gains recorded across various theatres of operation.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said categorically that there was no credible evidence of terrorist presence in any part of the FCT.

“There is no verifiable report confirming the presence of terrorists in any part of the FCT. The allegation of presence of terrorists in Jukwoyi is not true. I can state categorically that it is not true,” he said.

He, however, noted that while terrorist presence was not established, criminal elements might exist within the territory.

On the incident involving the NYSC corps member, Onoja explained that conflicting accounts were currently under review.

He said the military unit involved reported that its personnel were pursuing armed robbers and that the incident occurred during a crossfire, while the family has disputed this version of events.

According to him, “I have reviewed both the military’s report and the family’s counter-narrative. It is evident that there are gaps in both accounts.

“While the soldiers maintain that they were pursuing an armed robber and that there was a crossfire, the family insists that this account is inaccurate, and we are currently engaging with them.”

He added that internal verification was ongoing to determine the most credible version of events, stressing accountability for any wrongdoing.

“On our part, we are conducting internal verification to determine which account is more credible. I can assure you that anyone found culpable or who acted beyond their mandate will be held accountable.

“At the appropriate time, the outcome will be communicated to the general public. We therefore ask for your patience as the investigation continues.”

Onoja reiterated that security agencies remained on high alert to ensure the FCT remained secure, noting that all military formations have been tasked with preventing any security breach.

Boko Haram Lost, Education Won as 12 Rescued Chibok Girls Graduate at AUN

The American University of Nigeria, Yola, Adamawa State capital, will host a landmark graduation ceremony on May 9, 2026, as 12 rescued Chibok girls receive degrees, turning a symbol of national tragedy into one of resilience and academic victory.

AUN President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, announced the historic milestone during a media briefing ahead of the ceremony.

He described the event as one of the most emotional and defining moments in the university’s history, signaling a major defeat for Boko Haram’s anti-education campaign.

“When these 12 girls walk across that stage, it will be deeply symbolic. For years, the world cried ‘Bring Back Our Girls.’ On May 9, we are not just bringing them back, we are sending them forth as educated, empowered women ready to shape the future. Boko Haram lost. Education won,” Frazier said.

He said a renowned CNN journalist, Stephanie Busari, whose “proof of life” report on the Chibok girls drew global attention, would deliver the keynote address, adding that her presence recognised the role of journalism in keeping the Chibok cause in the global spotlight.

The president also highlighted AUN’s transformation over the past three years under his leadership.

He revealed that the university has achieved the largest enrollment growth in its history after recovering from COVID-19 disruptions, leadership changes, and financial strain.

According to Frazier, AUN’s revival is anchored on a student-centered model built on accessibility and innovation. He noted that more than 30 per cent of students now benefit from scholarships, pushing back against the perception that the university serves only the elite