NIGERIA NEWS
Security Forces Rescue Seven Abducted Victims In Kaduna State
Security operatives from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Military have successfully rescued seven individuals who were kidnapped in a daring operation in Kaduna State.
The rescue mission was initiated after a distress call on December 5, 2025, reporting that armed kidnappers had invaded a community in Ushafa, located in the Bwari Area Council of Abuja, abducting several residents.
A swift and coordinated response was launched by a joint team comprising operatives from the FCT Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigerian Army, and the DSS.
In a statement released on Sunday, Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, detailed how the security forces mobilised on December 6 to begin the search and rescue operation.
“Following a distress call received by the Police on December 5, 2025, reporting that heavily armed kidnappers had invaded a community in Ushafa, Abuja, and whisked away several residents under the cover of darkness, a joint security task force made up of operatives from the FCT Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Nigerian Army, and the DSS swung into action on December 6, launching a coordinated manhunt for the abductors,” the statement said.
The security forces, guided by credible intelligence, tracked the suspects’ movements through the outskirts of the Mpape community, following their trail into settlements linking the Kagarko Local Government Area in Kaduna State.
Upon sighting the approaching security team, the kidnappers opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape, resulting in a fierce gun battle. In response, the security forces unleashed overwhelming firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon one of their captives during their retreat.
Superintendent of Police Josephine Adeh described the operation, stating, “Displaying uncommon courage and endurance, the joint security team continued the chase for more than seven grueling hours across treacherous mountains and dense forest paths, determined to dismantle the criminal network completely.”
The pursuit eventually led the operatives to the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside Kweri Forest in Kaduna State, where another heavy exchange of gunfire broke out, breaking the gang’s resistance and forcing them to flee in disarray.
A thorough sweep of the forest camp resulted in the rescue of six more victims, bringing the total number of freed captives to seven. The rescued individuals were immediately evacuated to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical attention and are reported to be in stable condition.
FCT Police Commissioner, Miller Dantawaye, commended the bravery, discipline, and professionalism of the operatives involved in the rescue mission. He further ordered the reinforcement of security along identified flashpoints to prevent further criminal incursions into the capital.
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All schoolchildren abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in the Papiri community of Niger State have been successfully released.
The final batch of 130 students regained their freedom on Tuesday, bringing the total number of rescued children to 230, officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) have confirmed.
The development brings an end to days of anguish and uncertainty for the affected families and marks a significant breakthrough for security agencies involved in the rescue operation.
The students were abducted when gunmen stormed the boarding school, an incident that triggered nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of schools across the country.
Authorities said the successful release followed sustained security pressure and coordinated efforts by relevant agencies. Meanwhile, calls have intensified for stronger protection of educational institutions and decisive measures to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
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A fire disaster, caused by a candlelight, has rendered an Abia couple, Mr and Mrs Godwin Nwosu, and their four children homeless in Agbama Housing Estate, Umuahia.
The inferno started when the four children had slept off, while using the candle to read their books.
In their calls for help, the Couple, Mr and Mrs Nwosu said they lost all their belongings to the fire, regretting that nothing was salvaged.
Mrs Nwosu, who spoke in tears, explained that the candle was lit by the children for reading before they slept off, saying that they (the couple) were not at home when the fire started.
She explained that she had bought the candle to enable her read her books in preparation for her NCE examinations, following some days of electricity outage in the Agbama area.
Also the husband, Mr. Godwin Nwosu, a tricycle operator in Umuahia, lamented that the inferno destroyed everything the family laboured for throughout the year 2025, leaving them with nothing but ashes.
“I am now homeless with my family. The fire razed the entire house. We could not salvage anything because my wife and I were not at home when it happened,” he said.
While thanking God that their four children did not die in the fire, the Abia couple appealed for temporary accommodation and financial support from the Abia public.
NIGERIA NEWS
US expands travel restrictions, suspends green card, citizenship applications for Nigerians
The United States government has expanded its travel restrictions on Nigeria, suspending the processing of legal immigration applications, including green cards, naturalisation, and other permanent residency pathways.
The development means that Nigerians are no longer able to submit or have applications for permanent residency and citizenship processed under the affected programmes.
According to a report by CBS News, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing the suspension in line with a recent proclamation by President Donald Trump, which initially imposed partial travel restrictions on several developing countries, including Nigeria.
The earlier measures restricted entry for nationals applying for B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas. However, the new directive goes further by halting access to long-term immigration benefits.
A USCIS official was quoted as saying the agency is “conducting a comprehensive review of anyone from anywhere who poses a threat to the United States, including those identified in the President’s latest proclamation.”
The suspension also affects several other countries, including Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Syria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
US authorities said the decision was based on national security considerations.
According to the US government, a “general lack of stability and government control” in the affected countries makes it difficult to properly vet applicants or assess potential security risks.
“The limitations are necessary to ensure the safety of the American people and the integrity of our immigration system,” a US official said.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian government has not issued an official response to the expanded restrictions. However, Nigerian authorities have previously stated their willingness to work with the United States to address concerns related to immigration procedures and security cooperation.
The new policy is expected to significantly affect thousands of Nigerians seeking permanent residency, citizenship, or long-term legal status in the United States.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of a former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Theophilus Adetunji Akeredolu.
Naija News reports that Akeredolu died on December 9, 2025.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, a Chief Superintendent of Police.
“The Nigeria Police Force announces with deep sorrow the passing of a distinguished senior retired police officer and elder statesman, Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Theophillus Adetunji Akeredolu, who passed to glory on 9th December, 2025,” the statement read.
Born on October 25, 1942, the late DIG devoted several decades of his life to the service of the Nigeria Police Force and the country.
Akeredolu was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on September 1, 1969, where he initially served as a civilian lecturer at the Police College, Ikeja.
He later converted to a General Duty Police Officer on August 1, 1973, with the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
According to the statement, Akeredolu attended St. John Primary School, Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, as well as Teacher Training Colleges in Epinmi, Akoko, and Ifako, Lagos.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English and a Diploma in Education from the University of Lagos, obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Ilorin, and also held a Diploma in Journalism, among other professional qualifications.
During his policing career, Akeredolu held several key positions, including Officer-in-Charge of Investigation at the Criminal Investigation Department, Kwara State Command; Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command; and Commandant of the Detective College, Enugu.
He also served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar, and later as AIG in charge of ‘B’ Department (Operations) at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
He was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police on January 1, 2001, and served as DIG in charge of Operations until his retirement on March 14, 2002.
The late DIG underwent extensive local and international training, including programmes at the Metropolitan Police College, Hendon, London; the Royal Institute of Public Administration, London; the Staff College, Jos; Durham, Great Britain; and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos.
In recognition of his service, he was honoured with several awards, including the Commander of the Order of the Niger.
Beyond policing, he was a respected traditional and religious leader, serving as the Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, and holding notable titles within the African Church community in Abuja and Ekiti State.
Akeredolu is survived by his wife, Mrs Yemi Akeredolu, and his children.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on behalf of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, extended condolences to the family, associates and the people of Ekiti State.
“The Force mourns the loss of a dedicated professional whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity will remain a source of inspiration to generations of police officers,” the statement added.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, called for unity and peace within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), emphasizing that the party cannot thrive without cohesion.
He also reiterated that his government in Kano State would remain fully inclusive, leaving no one behind.
Governor Yusuf spoke at the NNPP’s National Convention, an elective gathering in which former National Chairman Dr. Ajuji Ahmed and other National Working Committee (NWC) members were re-elected for a four-year term.
Speaking to delegates, the governor said, “This convention is not just another gathering; it is a defining moment in the life of our party. It is a moment to reflect on our journey, examine our current standing, and boldly chart our future. I sincerely thank every one of you for your dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to the party, from the grassroots to the national level, from founding members to the newest entrants. This party exists and thrives because of your belief in its vision and ideals.”
He acknowledged the contributions of the party leadership, saying, “I especially appreciate the efforts of our leader, His Excellency RMK, and the NWC members under Alhaji Ahmad Ajuji, who have tirelessly ensured the party’s success.”
On inclusivity, Yusuf stressed, “As we prepare for future political engagements, I call on all leaders at every level to promote fairness and inclusiveness. No ward, state, zone, or group should feel marginalized. Women and youth, who form the backbone of our population, must be fully carried along, not just in words, but in action. We are committed to internal democracy, delivering the dividends of governance in Kano State, and ensuring fairness at all levels.”
Highlighting the importance of unity, the governor said, “No political party can succeed without cohesion. Parties that stand divided fall weakened, but those united by shared values, mutual respect, and collective purpose become unstoppable forces for progress and good governance. Let us carry everyone along, men and women, young and old, professionals and grassroots members alike. When every member feels valued, the party grows stronger and more resilient.”
Concluding his address, Governor Yusuf urged delegates to embrace the spirit of unity and purpose: “Let this convention mark a new chapter. Let it be remembered as the moment we set aside divisions, strengthen our bonds, and reaffirm our collective resolve. United we shall stand, focused we shall advance, and together we shall succeed. May our party continue to grow from strength to strength, guided by unity, sustained by discipline, and crowned with victory.”
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Suspected gunmen have again struck in Niger State, abducting a woman during a midnight raid on Ebbo community in Lapai Local Government Area, heightening security concerns among residents.
Residents said the heavily armed assailants invaded the community late Sunday night, firing sporadically into the air for nearly an hour to instil fear and force people indoors before carrying out the abduction.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the prolonged gunfire caused widespread panic, leaving the usually busy community deserted as no one dared to step outside.
“They came around midnight and kept shooting into the air for about an hour. Nobody could come out. They kidnapped a woman named Precious, the wife of Mr Monday Musa, a well-known Point-of-Sale operator in Ebbo. She gave birth about three months ago, but the baby was left behind. They also took one Mr Anthony, but he managed to escape and returned this morning,” the resident said.
Sources said residents had noticed the presence of unfamiliar faces in the community for about four days before the attack and had remained on alert. However, the local vigilante group, which usually conducts routine patrols, was reportedly not on duty at the time of the incident.
READ ALSO: NDLEA arrests female drug kingpin, intercepts 23.50kg cocaine in Lagos
Confirming the attack, Niger State Police Public Relations Officer Wasiu Abiodun stated that the incident occurred on 20 December at approximately 11:45 p.m.
“Some armed men, about six in number, attacked a compound in Ebbo and abducted a woman to an unknown destination. Police operatives from the Lapai Division promptly moved to the scene, and one Salisu was arrested in connection with the incident,” Mr Abiodun said.
He added that investigations were ongoing, while efforts had been intensified to rescue the abducted woman and apprehend the gunmen.
NIGERIA NEWS
Oma Life Rescue Foundation Supports 1,000 Homes with Food, Clothes Fiesta in Chibiri Community
Oma Life Rescue Foundation on Saturday, December 20, brought relief and festive cheer to no fewer than 1,000 vulnerable homes during its annual Food and Clothes Fiesta held at Chibiri, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The humanitarian outreach saw the distribution of essential food items and clothing materials, including bags of rice, tubers of yam, cartons of Indomie noodles and wrappers, aimed at supporting families to celebrate the Yuletide season with dignity.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Dr. Omanibe Blessing Ameh, said the initiative was not designed for public display but as a deliberate intervention to ease hardship among vulnerable households during the festive period.
“This is our annual event at the foundation, and this year we are in Chibiri. We are not here to show off but to support vulnerable homes and ensure they do not celebrate this season in lack,” she said.
According to Dr. Ameh, the foundation distributed about 300 bags of rice, 1,000 tubers of yam, 200 cartons of Indomie noodles and 300 wrappers, made possible through the support of partners and donors.
She emphasized that the foundation remains committed to humanitarian service, calling on well-meaning Nigerians to embrace charity as a means of bridging the gap between the privileged and the less privileged in society.
Residents of the community expressed gratitude to the foundation for the timely intervention, describing it as a lifeline for many families amid rising economic pressures.
Oma Life Rescue Foundation has consistently organized relief programmes across communities, reinforcing its mission to support vulnerable populations and promote compassion, especially during critical seasons like Christmas and New Year celebrations.
NIGERIA NEWS
Lady Who Saved N50k Daily on Piggyvest Mentions How Much Interest She Got, Sparks Mixed Reactions
A Nigerian lady who saved N50,000 daily on Piggvest mentioned the interest she got.
Many reacted as she shared the amount currently in her account.
She also opened up about the job she does that made her save N50k daily.
Watch the video below:
Source: Legit.ng
The New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, has reelected the members of its National Working Committee, NWC, to see to the affairs of the party, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party delegates unanimously voted that the National Chairman of the party, Dr Ajuji Ahmed, remains in the position along with other members of the party executives.
This was the outcome of the party’s National convention held in Abuja on Saturday, attended by the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, national leader of the party, Engr Rabiu Kwankwaso, observers from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, among other party heavyweights.
The decision to reelect Ajuji-led NWC was taken at the National Executive Committee, NEC meeting held yesterday.
In his speech, the National Chairman of the party, Ajuji said the party is leaving no stone unturned in its quest for a strong, virile, united, progressive, equitable, prosperous and decent democratic nation.
“The NNPP’s flag must fly higher and higher at every nook and corner of Nigeria to reassure citizens that a new, better, greater and prosperous Nigeria is possible,” he said.
“NNPP has been repositioned, restructured and strengthened as a major stakeholder in the nation’s democratic process. All eyes are on our great party to point the way forward for sustainable democracy and development in Nigeria.
“Our country deserves a fresh start and citizens deserve a fresh new deal which only NNPP is capable to offer. In view of this, we have concluded Congresses at Ward, Local Government, State and Zonal levels where new leaders emerged.”
He urged leaders that emerged from the party’s state, zonal, local government and ward conventions to justify the confidence and trust party members reposed in them.
“NNPP is big enough to accommodate millions of fellow compatriots who desire and deserve a new Nigeria where peace and prosperity are guaranteed,” he added.
“Citizens look up to NNPP to chart the way forward for our dear nation. We must live up to their expectations.”
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has taken his dispute with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Supreme Court.
Akpabio is seeking to overturn a ruling of the Court of Appeal, Abuja division, which struck out his brief of argument in an appeal arising from the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Sources in Abuja said the Senate President’s legal team approached the apex court after the appeal court held that his brief was fundamentally defective and incompetent.
The appellate court said the brief failed to comply with mandatory provisions of the court of appeal rules.
The court faulted the brief for procedural violations, including unauthorised font size and line spacing, exceeding the 35-page limit, and failure to seek leave to regularise the defects.
The Appeal Court ruled that the infractions were not minor technical lapses but substantive breaches that went to the competence of the appeal.
In his notice of appeal, Akpabio argued that the Court of Appeal breached his constitutional right to fair hearing.
He said the lower court erred by refusing to grant him leave to correct the defective brief or permit him to re-file within or beyond the page limit.
Akpabio also contended that the court failed to treat parties equally, alleging that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s brief was allowed despite non-compliance with formatting rules.
The Senate President said the refusal to grant leave resulted in a miscarriage of justice.
The legal battle has fuelled speculation about political undertones, with some observers describing the dispute as a struggle for authority and control within the Senate.
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team said it is confident in the judiciary and described the Supreme Court appeal as a last-ditch effort.