Military History

Explore Nigeria’s military history on OldNaija.com. Discover tales of valor, the Nigerian armed forces’ evolution, and their pivotal role in shaping Nigeria. An essential resource for military enthusiasts and those interested in Nigeria’s military heritage.

5 Historical Riots/Wars In Nigeria That Almost Destroyed the Country

Various factors have stirred up conflicts among ethnic, religious and political groups in Nigeria. Religious, political and ethnic nationalism have…
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This Is Why An American Magazine Labelled Sani Abacha as “Thug of the Year” In 1995

General Sani Abacha General Sani Abacha is perhaps Nigeria’s most enigmatic head of state. He reigned from 1993 until his…
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Photos: In 1969, General Yakubu Gowon Got Married in the Middle of the Biafran War

On April 19, 1969, Nigeria’s Head of State at the time, Major-General Yakubu Gowon, married Miss Victoria Zakari at the…
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The Cameroons & Nigerian Artillery During An Attack On Mountain Hill Camp During WWI

Context: The Kamerun Campaign – This was part of the confrontation between Britain, France and Belgium on one hand and…
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Who Killed Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu?

Major Kaduna Nzeogwu’s Grave A Grim Anniversary Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu died in the final week of July 1967. While…
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January 8 Nigeria’s History: Ojukwu Fled to Ivory Coast Amidst War

On this day, 8th of January, 1970, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, leader of the breakaway Republic of Biafra, fled into exile…
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What Happened On The Night We Were To Be Executed By Abacha’s Boys – Oladipo Diya

Lt. General Oladipo Diya (rtd.) Lt. General Oladipo Diya served as the Chief of the General Staff (Deputy Head of…
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Leaked Video Of Gen. Diya Crying And Begging Late General Sani Abacha

Below is a leaked video clip of Former Ogun State Leader, General Oladipo Diya, grovelling at General Sani Abacha’s feet,…
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Victor Banjo’s Touching Letter To Aguiyi-Ironsi From Ikot Ekpene Prison

Who Was Victor Banjo And What Landed Him In Prison? Lt. Colonel Victor Banjo was a gallant Nigerian military officer…
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First Speech Of General Aguiyi Ironsi As The Head Of State Of Nigeria

Sub-Lieutenant Emmanuel Oladipo Makinde stands behind Commodore J.E.A. Wey (left) and Major General J.T. Aguiyi-Ironsi (speaking) at the first press…
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What You Need To Know About General Sani Abacha, His Iron Regime And Death

General Sani Abacha | The Cable Few Nigerians, and the many people involved in Commonwealth or international affairs and in…
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Timeline Of Notable Events That Happened In 1987, Nigeria

Below is a comprehensive compilation of the major/notable events that happened back in 1987 during the regime of the military…
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Major Gideon Orkar And Other April 1990 Coup Plotters Awaiting Judgement

Sitting from left to right – Captain Harley Empere, Major Gideon Orkar, Captain Perebo Dakolo, Lieutenant Cyril Ozoalor and Lieutenant…
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Execution of General I.D. Bisalla and Other February 1976 Coup Plotters

General Iliya D. Bisalla was executed along with 30 other officers on March 11, 1976, for being involved in the…
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How Ibrahim Babankowa Found Tafawa Balewa’s Decomposing Body Along Lagos-Abeokuta Road

The first and only Prime Minister of Nigeria, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa’s decomposing body was found in a bush near…
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