In what he describes as a monumental success for the Nigerian military, Brigadier General Usman Lawal, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade in Obinze, Imo State, has hailed the dismantling of the Biafran Supreme Headquarters as one of the most significant military operations of his career. The operation, executed in February 2024, targeted one of the most symbolic strongholds of the defunct Biafran secessionist movement, and Lawal is adamant that its destruction represents a key turning point in regional security.
Speaking during the end-of-year 2024 Combined Nigerian Army Social Activity (NASA) at Obinze Barracks, Lawal reflected on the operation that involved troops sweeping through multiple local government areas, including Eke Ututu, Njaba, Mbaitoli, Oru East and West, and areas in the Niger Delta region. The result was the neutralization of several armed criminal elements and the seizure of large quantities of weapons and ammunition.
“A Critical Operation for National Security”
Describing the operation as one of the most significant he had ever been involved in, Lawal recounted the immense planning and coordination required to execute the mission successfully. “The dismantling of the Biafran Supreme Headquarters is a clear demonstration of our commitment to eliminating remnants of violent secessionist activities and ensuring that the sovereignty of the Nigerian state is upheld,” Lawal stated.
He further elaborated on the operation’s far-reaching impacts on regional stability. “It wasn’t just about destroying a building. It was about dismantling a key part of a larger network of criminal activity that has historically fueled insecurity in this region,” Lawal said. “From there, we were able to disrupt a significant portion of the secessionist groups’ operations, ensuring the safety of the civilians in Imo State and beyond.”
Imo State: A Changing Landscape for Security
The operation was part of the broader security efforts led by the Nigerian Army to combat a wide array of threats in the southeast, particularly from secessionist groups and criminal elements. Lawal highlighted how the Brigade had not only targeted secessionists but also played a crucial role in combating kidnapping, cultism, political violence, and armed robbery.
“Through deterrence, timely force projection, and the elimination of criminal threats, we’ve made significant progress in curbing criminality in Imo State,” Lawal said. “Our efforts in 2024 have resulted in fewer incidents of violent crime, and the state has seen a drastic reduction in kidnappings, cult killings, and political assassinations.”
The 34 Artillery Brigade’s operations have been strategically aimed at restoring peace and order in an area that has long been plagued by violence. The successful operations have also contributed to a growing sense of stability that has allowed for the economic potential of the region to flourish, according to Lawal.
Imo’s Role in National Economic Growth
While discussing the Brigade’s successes, Lawal took the opportunity to highlight the economic benefits that have followed the restoration of security in the region. “I am proud to say that Imo State is now one of the major contributors to the nation’s oil production,” Lawal stated. “With our efforts, the region has become a hub for crude oil extraction, and the benefits are now visible in the nation’s economic output.”
Indeed, Imo State has emerged as a key player in Nigeria’s oil industry, with a significant portion of the country’s crude production originating from the state. This newfound stability is expected to further boost the state’s economic contributions, which had been severely hindered by years of insecurity.
A Year of Success for the Brigade
Looking back on the past year, Lawal described 2024 as a highly successful one for the 34 Artillery Brigade. Despite the numerous challenges faced throughout the year, including the continued operations against secessionists and criminal groups, Lawal emphasized that the Brigade’s impact in the region was undeniable.
“The year has been one of progress,” Lawal remarked. “We’ve effectively tackled many of the pressing security issues facing this state and have significantly reduced the influence of criminal groups. From anti-bunkering operations to dismantling violent cells, we’ve made significant strides in securing Imo and the entire southeast region.”
Lawal also touched on the importance of the military’s relationship with other security agencies. The cooperation between the Nigerian Army, police, and other agencies has been essential to maintaining the overall security framework in the state.
Governor Uzodimma’s Appreciation and Future Expectations
Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented at the event by Hon. Modestus Osakwe, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, praised the professionalism of the 34 Artillery Brigade. “The dedication and skill of the officers and soldiers have been pivotal in maintaining the peace during our elections, and we’ve seen a decrease in violent crimes over the last year,” Uzodimma stated.
Uzodimma also expressed confidence in the Brigade’s ability to continue to secure the state in the coming year. “I encourage all military personnel to double down on their efforts as we enter 2025. The security challenges we face are not over, but with the leadership of Brigadier General Lawal and his team, we are hopeful that peace will prevail.”
The Annual WASA Celebration: A Moment of Camaraderie
The end-of-year NASA event provided a moment of respite for the troops and their families, offering a break from the usual rigorous military routine. The event, which marks the conclusion of the Brigade’s operational activities for the year, included various social activities such as tug-of-war competitions, the presentation of awards to outstanding soldiers, and a display of local and traditional delicacies.
Dignitaries from across Imo State and beyond attended the occasion, including Senator Osita Izunaso, Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha, and Brigadier General Yenus Olayinka Zubairo, who represented the General Officer Commanding 82 Division.
In his closing remarks, Lawal noted that while the military’s work was far from over, the successes of 2024 had laid a solid foundation for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead. “Together, we’ve achieved a great deal. But our mission is ongoing. We will continue to protect the peace of Imo State and Nigeria,” Lawal concluded.
