Category: Nigeria

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Trump recognises Remi Tinubu at US national prayer breakfast

US President Donald Trump says Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady of Nigeria, attended the country’s national prayer breakfast held in Washington DC on Thursday.

Recognising the first lady at the event,Trump described Oluremi as a “very respected woman” and a “Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria”.

“We are honoured to be joined by the First Lady of Nigeria (Remi Tinubu), who also happens to be a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria, very respected woman…. it’s a great honour. Thank you very much,” Trump said in a video of the event.

The national prayer breakfast is an annual event where people of different political beliefs come together to pray.

Oluremi was ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal denominations, in 2018.

The first lady’s presence at the event comes amid the stance of the US government on killings and persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

In October 2025, Trump redesignated Nigeria as a ‘country of particular concern’ in response to allegations of a Christian genocide in the country.

Barely a month later, Trump asked the United States department of war to prepare for “possible action” to wipe out Islamic terrorists in Nigeria.

On December 25, 2025, the US government launched a fusillade of air strikes on ISIS terrorists in the north-western Nigerian state of Sokoto.

Subsequently, the US and Nigerian governments formed a working group to address issues on counter-terrorism and religious freedom in Nigeria. (TheCable)

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Kwara: Nigeria won’t surrender citizens to terrorism masquerading as faith – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has, for the umpteenth time, vowed that Nigeria will never surrender its people to extremism and terrorism masquerading as faith.

The President’s vow came on the heels of the recent attack in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State by gunmen that led to the death of about 100 people.

President Tinubu condemned in the strongest terms “the cowardly and beastly attack”, describing the gunmen as “heartless for choosing soft targets in their campaign of terror.”

He said the actions of the gunmen offended humanity and Nigeria’s shared values as a nation.

The President, in a statement he personally signed on Thursday night after meeting with Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said that perpetrators of the dastardly act will not go scot-free.

The statement read: “Today, I met with the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq @RealAARahman, to be debriefed on the incident in Kaiama LGA.

“I condemn in the strongest terms this cowardly and beastly attack. The gunmen are heartless for choosing soft targets in their doomed campaign of terror. Their actions offend our humanity, our faith, and our shared values as a nation.

“Yesterday, I directed the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State following the horrific attack on innocent villagers in Worro.

“This new military command will spearhead Operation Savannah Shield to checkmate these barbaric terrorists and protect defenceless communities.

“It is particularly disturbing that the victims were killed because they rejected an attempt at forced indoctrination. As I said, it is commendable that the community members, even though Muslims, refused to be conscripted into a weird belief that promoted violence over peace and dialogue. Nigeria will never surrender its people to extremism and terrorism masquerading as faith.

“I have further directed close collaboration between federal and state agencies to provide immediate support and relief to the affected community and to ensure that those responsible for this atrocity are pursued and brought to justice, just like other terrorists before them. They will not go scot-free.

“I pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. I also sympathise with the people and government of Kwara State.

“The Federal Government stands with you. We will protect our communities, defend our values, and defeat those who seek to divide us through terror.” (Vanguard)

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Tinubu Returns From Türkiye

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria from his state visit to the Republic of Türkiye.

Tinubu arrived at about 8:55 p.m.

He was received by senior government officials.

The President had departed Abuja for Türkiye on January 26, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

It follows an earlier official visit to Nigeria by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan between October 19 and 20, 2021, which reinforced diplomatic ties between Abuja and Ankara.

During the days-long trip, Tinubu and his Turkish counterpart signed nine Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

At the centre of this was the move to ramp up bilateral trade from $2 billion to $5 billion.

“We also discussed opportunities to support our investments in Nigeria. We believe that the joint Economy and Trade Committee, which we agreed to establish today, will be instrumental in this regard,” Tinubu had said in a joint briefing with Erdogan.

Other deals sealed during the trip ranged from energy cooperation, media, higher education, and Halal Quality Infrastructure, aimed at giving Nigerian agricultural products a competitive edge.

Erdogan said his country would support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, expressing readiness to deepen cooperation in military training and intelligence.

Speaking at a joint press conference, the Turkish president said that under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is taking firm steps against terrorism, and Türkiye stands by the Nigerian people in this struggle.

“We are ready to share Türkiye’s significant experience in counterterrorism,” presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the Turkish leader as saying.

The Turkish president also said terrorist groups, particularly in Africa’s Sahel region, pose a threat to the continent’s stability.

Nigerian officials held meetings with Türkiye’s leading defense industry firms during the visit and expressed confidence that the outcomes of those talks would be positive.

While Nigeria exports crude oil and agricultural products to Turkiye, the European country exports planes, iron and steel, chemical products, and helicopters to the West African country. (Channels)

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Army kills ISWAP commander, foils terror attacks in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI have killed a top Islamic State West Africa Province commander and foiled criminal operations, the force said on Saturday.

The force in a statement signed by Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, revealed that the top ISWAP commander was killed in Borno State.

“Intelligence has confirmed the killing of Julaibib, a top ISWAP commander operating within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle, during an encounter around Kimba, Damboa LGA of Borno State on 30 January 2026.

“The elimination of the terrorist leader has thrown ISWAP elements in the area into disarray, with several fighters reportedly neutralised during the operation. This impressive development represents a major blow to the command and control structure of ISWAP in the region,” the statement said.

The troops further revealed that, working with the Civilian Joint Task Force, they neutralised three terrorists during an ambush between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities in Borno State.

The statement said, “Troops tactically laid an ambush along the identified route and engaged the terrorists with effective firepower, resulting in the neutralisation of three insurgents, while others fled with gunshot injuries. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the scene.”

On 29 January, troops deployed in an ambush at Tsokorok, Gwoza LGA, engaged BH/ISWAP terrorists, forcing them to withdraw. “One terrorist was neutralised, with no casualties recorded on the side of the troops. Two motorcycles were recovered from the scene,” the statement said.

The Joint Task Force also reported successes in Adamawa State. Troops responded to a distress call from Barama community, Mubi North LGA, on 29 January, foiling an armed robbery attempt.

“Two armed robbery suspects attempting to attack a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, were arrested. One suspect sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh and was evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre, Mubi, for treatment.

“Items recovered include three cutlasses, two laptops, four mobile phones, and one power bank. The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation,” the statement said.

Earlier, on 28 January, troops and local vigilantes conducted a patrol along the Amtasa–Washim axis in Hong LGA.

“During the patrol, troops made contact with terrorists and engaged them with a high volume of fire, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray.

“The patrol team also rescued a woman abducted by the terrorists and recovered one AK-47 rifle (Reg. No. 2056792) with 2 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one SMG rifle, and 42 rounds of assorted ammunition,” the statement said.

The statement added that the general security situation across the theatre remains stable, with OPHK committed “to protect lives and property, dismantle terrorist networks, and work with local communities and security critical stakeholders to restore lasting peace and economic stability across the North-East region.” (Punch)

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Friend of a Thief is a Thief, Musa warns Gumi, others sympathising with terrorists

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned Sheikh Ahmed Gumi and others sympathetic to terrorists and bandits to stop their subversive endeavour, saying, “a friend of a thief is a thief.”

Musa cautioned against providing overt or covert support to criminal elements seeking to destabilise the country.

Speaking yesterday during an official visit to Maiduguri, the minister said those engaged in acts of terrorism and banditry did not represent any form of regional, ethnic, or religious brotherhood.

The warning came as the Nigerian Army said it had taken a significant step towards strengthening its manpower development and national security framework with the construction of a new training depot at Amasiri-Edda, located within Afikpo and Edda local government areas of Ebonyi State.

In another development, Poland identified Nigeria as a key pillar of stability in West Africa, acknowledging the decisive role played by the Nigerian Armed Forces in counter-insurgency operations and regional security initiatives.

Musa explained that his remarks were deliberate and purposeful, not merely symbolic. He stressed that Nigerians must refrain from supporting or justifying criminal activities in any form.

He said the warning directly responded to narratives previously advanced by Sheikh Gumi, who had referred to bandits hiding in forests as “our brothers” and suggested that society could not function without them.

Musa made a distinction between compassion and complicity, stating that while empathy for fellow citizens is important, excusing or normalising terrorism only emboldens criminal networks.

He said the criminal groups had ravaged communities, displaced thousands of families, and claimed countless innocent lives across the country.

He emphasised that portraying bandits as “brothers” neither reduced violence nor promoted peace; rather, it legitimised criminal behaviour and undermined ongoing national security efforts.

The defence minister warned that terrorism did not thrive on weapons alone but also on moral and rhetorical cover.

He stressed that individuals, who defended, excused, or shielded criminals—whether through words, influence, or silence—must recognise that they shared responsibility for the consequences of such actions.

Musa stated that Nigeria could not defeat terrorism and banditry while dangerous narratives blurred the line between victims and perpetrators. (ThisDay)

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Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Akume others eulogise Akande at 87

Nigerians from all walks of life yesterday paid glowing tributes to former Osun State Governor and elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande.

Chief Akande, who clocked 87 on Friday, received birthday greetings from prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; a former member of the House of Representatives who represented Ife Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Rotimi Makinde, among others.

President Tinubu and Akume described Akande as a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

They spoke at the 87th birthday celebration of Chief Akande held in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, where they praised his lifelong commitment to democratic ideals, principled leadership and selfless service to the nation, noting that his contributions to Nigeria’s political development remain enduring and invaluable.

Tinubu’s goodwill message was delivered by Senator Akume at the ceremony.

In the message, the President described Akande as a mentor whose wisdom and counsel have guided generations of political leaders through difficult moments in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Secretary of the Government of the Federation (SGF) on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, he said the nation owes the elder statesman a debt of gratitude for his sacrifices and steadfast belief in democratic governance, praying for continued good health, strength and peace for him.

President Tinubu also expressed confidence that Akande’s legacy of integrity and patriotism would continue to illuminate Nigeria’s path towards unity, stability and progress.

In his personal goodwill message, Akume described Chief Akande as an embodiment of courage, humility and unwavering commitment to democratic values, noting that his service to the nation has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history.

Recalling their political collaboration, Akume said they jointly launched a deliberate strategy aimed at dismantling the dominance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West. (Nation)

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He saved 262 Christians where govt failed — CAN mourns Imam Abdullahi

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has paid tribute to the late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, recalling how his personal decision to protect others in a moment of extreme danger saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018 and left an enduring mark on the nation’s conscience.

In a statement on Saturday and signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, the association mourned the Imam while reflecting on how his single, courageous act spoke to Nigeria’s deep divisions and the fragile bonds holding its social fabric together.

“The late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi will forever be remembered for his rare moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger.

“By choosing to protect innocent lives at great personal risk, he saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018, standing firmly on the side of humanity when it mattered most.

“His actions transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed that the sanctity of human life is sacred above all else.

“This singular act of heroism did more than save lives. It reinforced hope, strengthened interfaith harmony, and reminded our nation that peace is possible when conscience, love, and faith guide our actions.

“It was in recognition of this exceptional service to humanity that CAN honoured him with an award during its Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021.

“CAN believes that such courage deserves not only remembrance but amplification.

“As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived in service to God and humanity,” the association added. (Vanguard)

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Tinubu, Mark, Sanwo-Olu, Ododo, Idris mourn Mohammed, Newswatch co-founder

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, joined prominent Nigerians to extend heartfelt condolences to the family of veteran journalist and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, who died on Monday night.

Other Nigerians who also mourned the deceased included former Senate President, David Mark; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his Kogi State counterpart, Usman Ododo; the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris; and the Nigerian Guild of Editors.

Mohammed, alongside late Dele Giwa, Dan Agbese, and Ray Ekpu, founded Newswatch Magazine in 1984, inspiring the era of fearless investigative journalism in Nigeria during the military era.

Mohammed served as pro-chancellor and chancellor of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University. He was also Associate Editor of New Nigerian Newspapers (1976-1980), Deputy Editor and Editor of National Concord (1980-1984) before the founding of Newswatch.

The president, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with the government and people of Kogi State, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Commonwealth Journalists’ Association, and other media institutions, public and private, where the late Mohammed had provided leadership.

Tinubu affirmed that Mohammed’s career in journalism, spanning over 50 years, was devoted to nation-building, with the journalist placing his life on the line to tell the truth to power.

He noted the dedication of Mohammed, whom he called a personal friend, and his colleagues in sustaining the visionary legacy of Newswatch Magazine after the assassination of Dele Giwa in 1986, further confirming their resolve and courage in pushing the boundaries of investigative journalism in Nigeria.

Tinubu believed that Mohammed’s publication of his memoirs, “Beyond Expectations,” in November 2025, provided an opportunity for soul-searching and deep reflection on leadership in Nigeria and the role of journalists.

He prayed that the Almighty God would receive the soul of the departed, and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. (ThisDay)

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Ikorodu school collapse: Sanwo-Olu orders relocation of pupils

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered the relocation of pupils from Odokekere High School in Ikorodu to nearby schools following the collapse of a classroom block during lectures on Thursday.

While no casualties were reported, students who sustained minor injuries are said to be in perfect condition. The relocation order aims to prevent disruption to the pupils’ academic activities.

The Lagos State Government and the Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) expressed regret over the incident.

A source from the SCRPS office revealed that the collapsed classroom block had already been marked for demolition to make way for a new classroom building designed to accommodate the school’s large student population.

The chairman of SCRPS, Hakeem Smith, who led a spot assessment of the site, confirmed to The Guardian that work will begin immediately on constructing an ultra-modern classroom block. He promised to provide further information on the development.

A statement from SCRPS read: “Lagos State Government and Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) received with shock the sad news of the bungalow classroom block which collapsed at Odokekere High School in Ikorodu, Lagos.

“The state government regrets the unfortunate incident. However, we also wish to state that no casualties were recorded in the building collapse. All of our students are in perfect condition.”

The incident has reignited concerns about the state of public schools in Lagos State.

Despite SCRPS’s significant work in building and upgrading school infrastructure in recent years, many believe more needs to be done to improve existing facilities. (Guardian)

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Across Nigeria, governors urge support for armed forces on remembrance day

As Nigeria marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, governors across the country paid tribute to fallen heroes, commended serving and retired personnel, and called for strengthened support for the nation’s military.

In Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal, represented by Secretary to the State Government Malam Abubakar Nakwada, assured security agencies of the state government’s unwavering cooperation in discharging their duties. Speaking at the ceremony held at the Domestic Trade Fair Centre in Gusau, Lawal pledged to improve logistics, welfare, and intelligence-driven strategies aimed at safeguarding lives and property.

Highlighting the sacrifices of security personnel in restoring peace to communities, he said, “Many brave sons and daughters have paid the ultimate price in the course of ensuring stability. Today, we salute their courage and reaffirm our collective resolve to build a safer and more prosperous Zamfara State.”

He further commended the fallen heroes of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and other security agencies, pledging continued government support for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of their families.

In Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri urged corporate organisations and private individuals to support Nigeria’s armed forces through contributions and partnerships, citing the need to enhance conditions of service. The governor made the call during the remembrance ceremony at Peace Park, Yenagoa.

Paying tribute to serving, retired, and fallen soldiers, Diri stressed that “the Armed Forces are the bedrock of national security. Without them, the very fabric of our country would be torn apart.” He also highlighted his administration’s recent completion and handover of residential accommodation to the Nigerian Army 16 Brigade at Elebele and invited the Armed Forces to collaborate with the state on agricultural initiatives to boost food security and sustainable livelihoods.

The ceremony featured wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Governor Diri, the Speaker of the State Assembly, service commanders, representatives of widows, and traditional leaders.

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s security architecture during the ceremony at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan. He emphasized the importance of security for economic growth and social stability, assuring that his government would continue to work closely with security agencies to protect lives and property.

Makinde also announced plans to implement a welfare scheme for the families of five forest guards recently killed at the Old Oyo National Park, describing them as heroes who died in service. He commended security personnel for their professionalism and dedication, assuring residents that their welfare and operational needs would remain a priority.

The Commandant-General and Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Oyo State, Julius Alabi, lauded both federal and state governments for improving welfare for ex-servicemen and urged sustained support for families of fallen heroes to preserve their legacy.

Across all states, the remembrance events underscored the sacrifices of Nigeria’s armed forces and the continued responsibility of government, communities, and private citizens to support their welfare. The ceremonies combined solemn tributes with public reflection on the courage and dedication of men and women who risk their lives to ensure national security. (Vanguard)