NIGERIA NEWS
COAS Waidi Shaibu Meets Sultan Of Sokoto After US Air Strikes
Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, met with the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, on Friday in a move the Nigerian Army described as aimed at strengthening ties with community leadership to promote national stability.
The visit, according to the army, was meant to reaffirm the resolve of the Nigerian Army to work closely with community leaders to promote stability and coexistence across the country.
In a post on 𝕏, the Nigerian Army said the engagement underscores its renewed commitment to strengthening civil–military relations and fostering collaboration with traditional institutions in support of national unity, peace, and security.
The meeting took place less than 24 hours after the United States launched air strikes on ISIS‑linked enclaves in Sokoto State.
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the aerial bombardment was carried out “at the request of Nigerian authorities.”
Shortly after, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed that the Nigerian military collaborated with the US government in executing the strikes. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, explained that the operations were deliberately calibrated to neutralise the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage.
However, the action was not without controversy. Nigerian broadcaster and former Director‑General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ladan Salihu, claimed the strikes missed their intended target and lacked precision.
He asserted that the bombs landed in Jabo village, Tambuwal LGA of Sokoto, where residents reported no fatalities.
The Ministry of Information later clarified that the intended target was Buani Forest in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto, known to harbour extremist elements.
The ministry also noted that debris from the strikes fell in Jabo and Offa in Kwara State during the operation.
Suspected bandits on Friday evening reportedly invaded Adanla, a suburb of Igbaja in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, and abducted no fewer than seven persons, residents said.
The attack occurred around 7 pm on December 26, 2025, plunging the otherwise peaceful agrarian community into fear and panic.
A community leader and Coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Community Security Watch Network, Elder Olaitan Oyin‑Zubair, confirmed the incident to Punch on Saturday.
“At about 7:30 pm, we received a report from Adanla‑Irese, a suburb of Igbaja, that bandits had entered the community,” Oyin‑Zubair said.
According to him, the armed assailants stormed Adanla in large numbers, firing indiscriminately and moving from house to house, forcing residents into submission.
He said, “We immediately swung into action by mobilising hunters and vigilantes from Igbaja to the area. We also alerted the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, who directed his men around the axis to respond swiftly.”
He noted that soldiers later arrived in the community in two operational trucks to support local security operatives.
“Unfortunately, before their arrival, the bandits had already abducted eight persons and wounded a woman. They were shooting indiscriminately to scare the locals,” Oyin‑Zubair said.
Residents told Punch that several people sustained injuries while trying to escape. Many families fled their homes, taking refuge in nearby bushes and neighbouring communities to avoid further attacks.
As of Saturday morning, efforts to obtain official confirmation from the police were ongoing.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, SP Adetoun Ejire‑Adeyemi, said she was yet to receive a detailed briefing on the attack.
“I am yet to be properly briefed about the incident. I got the information last night too, but as soon as I have details, I will get back to you,” she said.
A civil society organisation, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), has petitioned Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), calling for an independent review into the death of a 19-year-old in Enugu State following contradictory official police conclusions on whether the teenager was murdered or died of natural causes.
In a petition dated 26 December and shared with PREMIUM TIMES on Friday, the organisation said its intervention is not based on a definitive finding of homicide, but on what it described as the failure of the Nigeria Police Force to transparently reconcile conflicting investigative outcomes reached by different police units.
RULAAC said the contradictions are institutionally significant because they involve divergent findings by separate police formations on the same death, raising questions about investigative coordination, evidentiary standards, and the authority of final police investigations.
The organisation warned that the absence of a clear, reconciled official position risks undermining due process, public confidence, and internal accountability within the police.
“These contradictions raise serious unresolved questions regarding the actual cause of Nnamdi Chidi’s death, the existence and findings of any autopsy or medical reports, and whether criminal justice processes are being influenced by competing petitions, internal community conflicts, or abuse of police authority,” RULAAC’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, wrote.
Mr Chidi, who was linked by maternal origin to the Agunese Mmaku community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, died on 8 May under circumstances that have since generated sharply opposing narratives involving community members and different police formations.
How it happened
In early May, detectives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja, arrested a community member, Emmanuel Okeke, in connection with issues arising from the Agunese Mmaku community.
According to one account, an alleged attack occurred at the home of Mr Chidi’s family in the early hours of 6 May.
Mr Chidi died two days later, on 8 May, at Beacon Hospital in Awgu.
In the days that followed, the Enugu State Police Command reportedly treated the matter as a homicide, conducted an autopsy, and arrested a suspect before the Force Headquarters Homicide Unit later took over the investigation.
A subsequent review by the IGP Monitoring Unit disputed the homicide claim, resulting in conflicting official narratives that later prompted RULAAC’s petition to the Inspector-General of Police on 26 December.
Account alleging homicide
According to information presented to RULAAC, the Enugu State Police Command linked Mr Chidi’s death to injuries allegedly sustained during an assault on his family home following the arrest of Emmanuel Okeke.
Police investigation said threats were issued shortly after the arrest and that in the early hours of 6 May, Mr Chidi was assaulted during an attack on the compound.
He was taken to Beacon Hospital, Awgu, where he died two days later.
In a letter dated 5 December to the deceased’s maternal uncle, Jonathan Onuoha, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iya Muhammad, confirmed that the autopsy and investigation reports were released to the family following a formal request.
According to the police, the autopsy was conducted on 20 August at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, by a consultant pathologist, I. O. Nwidenyi, in the presence of the investigating police officer. The deceased’s body was identified by his uncle.
The police said the postmortem examination revealed multiple external and internal injuries, including bruises on various parts of the body, contusions on the scalp, intracranial haemorrhage and brain swelling.
Investigators said the pattern and severity of the injuries were consistent with repeated blunt-force trauma and not with a sudden natural medical episode.
A copy of the autopsy report seen by PREMIUM TIMES stated that Mr Chidi suffered fatal head injuries. The pathologist concluded that the cause of death was severe head injury resulting from multiple blunt-force impacts.
The Enugu State Police Command described the incident as a premeditated and unlawful attack, adding that investigators had established a prima facie case of conspiracy and murder. Police said the suspects fled the area and remained at large.
Counter account denying homicide
However, a counter-narrative attributed to the IGP Monitoring Unit disputes the claim that any homicide occurred.
According to this account, RULAAC said the deceased’s mother allegedly stated that her son was not assaulted and died from natural causes linked to a pre-existing medical condition.
The Monitoring Unit reportedly concluded, following enquiries in the community, that the murder allegation was fabricated and rooted in longstanding internal disputes.
RULAAC stated that the police have not publicly clarified which of the two investigative outcomes reflects the official position of the Nigeria Police Force, nor have they explained how the differing conclusions were reconciled.
RULAAC’s core complaint
RULAAC said its petition centres on what it described as institutional silence and lack of transparency in reconciling contradictory investigative outcomes, rather than on challenging the authority of the police to conduct investigations.
The organisation said unresolved questions remain over the actual cause of Mr Chidi’s death, the authenticity and handling of any autopsy, and which investigative conclusions represent the official position of the Nigeria Police Force.
It added that uncertainty persists over the credibility and voluntariness of witness statements, as well as the respective roles played by the Enugu State Homicide Unit, Force Headquarters, and the IGP Monitoring Unit, noting that the lack of clarity has complicated accountability and continued to fuel conflicting public narratives.
RULAAC also raised concerns that counter-petitions, allegations of cyberbullying, and character assassination were allegedly deployed against individuals who raised the homicide claim, potentially discouraging witnesses and undermining investigative integrity.
“These inconsistencies, left unaddressed, risk eroding public confidence in law enforcement and the administration of justice,” the organisation said.
RULAAC called on the Inspector-General of Police to order an independent, impartial, and transparent review of the case, clarify the status of investigations, and ensure coordination among police units involved.
The organisation also urged the police leadership to prevent any actions that could undermine due process or give the impression of selective investigation.
Community, family dispute homicide claim
The police account of homicide has been disputed by the deceased’s family and some community members.
At a press conference on 20 December in Lagos, a lawyer, Vincent Okafor, and a businessman, Emmanuel Okeke, both indigenes of the community, said they had petitioned the IGP, disputing the autopsy findings and calling for an independent investigation.
They alleged that the autopsy report was fabricated and urged the police to exhume Mr Chidi’s remains for a fresh postmortem examination.
Mr Chidi’s mother, Augustina Onuoha, also denied that her son was assaulted, insisting that he died from epilepsy.
“My son was not beaten by anybody. Nobody touched him before he died,” she said in a video footage seen by PREMIUM TIMES.
The petitioners further accused the community’s traditional ruler, Cyprian Nevobasi, of using the incident to intimidate perceived opponents amid a prolonged leadership crisis in the community.
Speaking on the sidelines of the press conference, Mr Okeke also called for the release of his younger brother, Ifeanyi Okeke, who has been in detention in Abuja for nearly four weeks while investigations into the case continued.
Mr Nevobasi denied the allegations, saying he was neither a complainant nor a witness in any murder case and that he had withdrawn any petitions previously submitted to security agencies against community members.
However, the petitioners provided PREMIUM TIMES with copies of petitions allegedly written by Mr Nevobasi to the police and the State Security Service, accusing several community members of sponsoring armed groups.
They said some of those named were detained for weeks or months, prompting a suit at the Federal High Court in Enugu.
RULAAC’s concerns
RULAAC said its petition to the IGP was based on documents shared with it, including police investigation findings, an autopsy report, and correspondence with oversight bodies.
The organisation also alleged that officers at the FCID Annex, Enugu, initially refused to accept its petition when it was delivered through a courier service and demanded unofficial payments for its submission—claims the police have not publicly addressed.
READ ALSO: Full detail: Why IPI Nigeria listed IGP Egbetokun, Govs Bago, Umo in Book of Infamy
RULAAC called on the IGP to clarify the status of the petition, issue clear directives prohibiting obstruction of petitions, and order a professional investigation into the issues raised.
Contacted via WhatsApp, the police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, said on Friday that he would “find out” when asked to respond to the allegations. But he has yet to revert to this reporter as of the time of filing this report on Saturday.
By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
The founder of the Pan-African Teens Development Initiative (PATDI), Princess Anita B.C. Umeweni, has issued a Boxing Day message urging society to reflect on its responsibility towards teenagers and work towards creating a crime-free society.
In the message, PATDI reaffirms its commitment to guiding teens through mentorship, character development, and opportunities, emphasizing that a crime-free society among teens is a shared responsibility.
The statement reads, “A crime-free society among teens is not a wish; it is a responsibility we must all share.” PATDI encourages individuals to contribute their time, values, and voices to shape a safer future for young people.
The message concludes with a call to action, stating, “Together, we must get it right for our teens and for generations to come.”
Princess Anita B.C. Umeweni’s PATDI focuses on guiding teenagers towards positive paths, emphasizing mentorship, character development, and opportunities to prevent crime.
Some potential areas of focus, include teen mentorship programs, character-building initiatives, community engagement for crime prevention and
Partnerships for teen development.
Several organizations are working to prevent crime and empower youths. Princess Anita Umeweni’s Vision 2035 aims to engage teenagers constructively through vocational training and mentorship, with a goal of preventing crime and promoting positive development. This 10-year program plans to establish monitoring committees in all states and the Federal Capital Territory to ensure effective implementation.
The PATDI also emphasizes individual responsibility in creating a crime-free society, urging citizens, especially youths, to choose the right path and stand against societal ills like drug abuse and cultism.
Other organizations that are into similar initiatives as PATDI are, Raised for Excellence Foundation, providing mental support and skills training to youths in high-crime areas, Nwakaego Initiative and Empowerment Foundation, launching the: “Say No To Crime” campaign to educate youths on common and lesser-known crimes,
Boys Aid Network, inspiring young Nigerian boys to build safe communities through the “Boys Against Crime Campaign”
These organizations recognize that addressing poverty, unemployment, and family conditions is crucial to reducing crime rates.
NIGERIA NEWS
Oyibo Man Confirms Name of Missile Used in US Bombing of ISIS Camps in Sokoto: “Hit On Target”
- An Oyibo man got many people talking on social media as he made a sensitive statement about the attack on ISIS bases
- He mentioned the name of the deadly weapon that was used by the United States military to carry out the strike
- The revelation of the individual got many people talking on social media over the name he mentioned in the viral post
An Oyibo man has confirmed the name of the deadly missile used by the United States to bomb ISIS terrorists in Sokoto state, as well as the location from which the missile was fired.
He made the revelation hours after the attack on ISIS bases in Sokoto was confirmed by Donald Trump, the US president.
Oyibo man confirms missile used to hit ISIS in Sokoto. Photo source: Twitter/MarioNawfal, Wikipedia, Army Recognition
Source: Twitter
Oyibo man details strike on ISIS
In a post making waves online, the Oyibo man spoke about the missile and other important details.
The Oyibo man, @Mario Nawfal, cited a news report to make his statement and confirmed the name of the missile.
Read also
Man refutes claims that Trump’s missile missed target in Nigeria: “They refused to share images”
He wrote:
“U.S. LAUNCHES TOMAHAWK CRUISE MISSILES INTO NIGERIA ON CHRISTMAS DAY, TARGETING ISIS CAMPS.”
After speaking about the missile, he discussed the location from which the missiles were fired.
Oyibo man reveals location of US missile strike in Nigeria. Photo source: Twitter/MarioNawfal, Army Recognition
Source: Twitter
He continued in the viral post:
“A U.S. Navy warship in the Gulf of Guinea launched over a dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles at two ISIS-Sahel Province camps in Sokoto State, Nigeria.”
He made several other statements in the post, which people reacted to in the comments section.
Reactions as oyibo man speaks about attack
@MarekPasz added:
“Strikes against ISIS camps underscore how far terrorism has spread — and how complex protecting civilians has become. Defending innocent lives matters, but lasting peace can’t be built on missiles alone. Justice must pair security with long-term solutions.”
@BlueWarriorFx noted:
“And as for the good people of Nigeria, This is the best News so far in the Year 2025. Anybody that is opposing this strikes and further strikes that wipe those terrorist is a Confirmed Terrorist.”
Read also
US strike on ISIS in Sokoto: Nigerian journalist calls for proof of terrorists eliminated
Steven Yao said:
“@stevenhigherfun Sure—Tomahawks, “perfect strikes,” and a Christmas-night warning, all neatly gift-wrapped… with the only missing item being independently verifiable details. Until there’s a clear post-strike assessment and sourcing beyond slogans, treat the missile-type/body-count claims as hype—and stop selling Nigeria’s violence as “Christians only,” because even Abuja rejects that framing..”
@Oryonfinance stressed:
“Direct action on Christmas Day signals zero tolerance for terror Precision strikes show intent to protect and deter.”
@Truth_Unfiltere shared:
“real question: does this actually slow the slaughter, or just push militants to melt into civilian cover again until the next round.”
@AndinoAsuquo noted:
“Hit on target.”
@hoylejohn69 said:
“Black winter is coming, if the USA and Europe isn’t kicked out of Africa fast hm, Traore also said same thing many has been trying to pass out. The desperation of the conceptual west against Africa taking back what’s hers has driven them made. A cruise missile is another’s ctry?”
Read also
US soldier taunts Sokoto terrorists hours after deadly strike: “Eyes are on you”
Read the post below
In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a Nigerian man in the US army got people talking online after he spoke about the US attack on ISIS terrorists in Sokoto, northern Nigeria.
Nigerian journalist questions US strike in Sokoto
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that a young Nigerian journalist spoke about the US attack on ISIS terrorists in Sokoto, northern Nigeria.
The attack was ordered by US President Donald Trump, but the journalist is not sure it worked. He said there is no proof showing how many terrorists were killed.
Source: Legit.ng
A young boy has gone viral after reportedly rejecting a ₦100 Christmas gift, insisting that he would only accept ₦1,000.
“I no dey collect N100, na only 1,000”
According to witnesses, the boy’s reaction left family and friends surprised, with many joking about how money has lost its value in recent years.
In an exchange shared online, the boy allegedly told the gift giver, “Me I no dey collect N100, na only 1,000”
The story quickly gained traction, with online users sharing their own experiences with children and festive gifts.
Social media reactions:
@Ecstasy2468 commented: “U sef see boy wey drip head to toe like dis & u get mind dey give am 100 omo u suppose do jail”
@Awo_abayomi commented: “100 naira is now 1 kobo”
@babaGdeyjr commented: “100 no get value again”
@Chizzy3015 commented: “Area don clear his mind”
@E4twof commented: “It’s easy for kids to know 1k now cause 1 biscuits and 1 coke 1k don finish. No change. So they know say Coke and biscuits is 1k”
@LOBWarri commented: “Me wey dem go give #10 or #20 or #50 i go dey Happy na all this brat of this Generation dey get pride for money wey Dem still wan Dash Them Kai life”
@SampsonObi commented: “Nigeria don fail nah 100 naira can’t buy anything again, APC well done work”
@JezebelRe commented: “1000 you be criminal”
@JustAmof commented: “The boy mouth don big oh 100 no fit buy Wetin he Dey chop”
Watch the video below…
Dem give this boy ₦100 for Christmas, he reject am say na ₦1,000 him dey collect now 😲😂🙆🏾♂️ pic.twitter.com/8nlGO2af48
— Cleverly 💐 (@Cleverlydey4u) December 27, 2025
Former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, has claimed that billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke, father of music star, Davido, wields the real power in Osun State, not Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Speaking during an interview on state affairs with Edmund Obilo, Adesiyan alleged that Deji Adeleke is the true authority behind the state government, describing him as the “real governor” of Osun.
“Deji Adeleke is the governor. Who is Ademola Adeleke? Can that one become governor?” Adesiyan said. “Deji is the one in charge.”
He further stated that Deji Adeleke has long exercised significant influence in Osun politics, even during the tenure of his brother, the late Senator Isiaka Adeleke.
“I served under his brother when he was in government. I knew the influence Deji wielded over his senior brother,” Adesiyan added.
According to him, Deji Adeleke is a powerful businessman and “a capitalist to the core,” whose influence, he claimed, extends deeply into the political structure of the state.
A former senior officer of the Nigerian Army, Major General John Enenche (retd.), has strongly defended recent United States airstrikes targeting ISIS enclaves in northwest Nigeria, insisting that opposition to the action is driven by selfish interests rather than national concern.
Enenche described the strikes as timely, necessary, and long overdue, arguing that Nigeria has suffered for decades from terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism without achieving a decisive breakthrough.
He said the intervention signals a turning point in the country’s long-running security crisis.
Speaking during a television interview, the retired general said the airstrikes, carried out in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State, showed serious international commitment to Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
He noted that the impact of insecurity has gone far beyond loss of lives, extending to economic collapse, displacement of communities, and long-term instability.
“I am very happy about the development in the sense that this is an issue that has lasted for over two decades. We have lost so many people, innocent people, despite trying various solutions: diplomatic efforts, dialogue, even bargaining and talking to bandits and terrorists as if there was no other solution,” Enenche said.
Drawing from personal experience, he recalled his time serving in affected areas more than 20 years ago and described the destruction he witnessed.
According to him, insecurity should not be viewed only from a military angle but as a broad threat affecting human lives, livelihoods, and national development.
“As a military man who fought in that area over 20 years ago, I saw with my own eyes the casualties, the rage and the devastation. When you talk about security, you are talking about human beings, human security, economic security, cyber security. It affects everyone,” he said.
Enenche praised the United States for openly backing Nigeria, stating that clear support from a global power sends a strong message to terror groups. He linked the action to earlier assurances from the U.S. leadership to assist Nigeria in tackling insecurity.
“America has come out boldly to say, ‘We are going to help you’. President Donald Trump came out and said they will assist Nigeria. For me, this is the beginning of good things to come for this country,” he stated.
Responding to critics who fear that U.S. involvement could drag Nigeria into prolonged foreign conflict, Enenche dismissed such views as defeatist.
He argued that international cooperation has worked for Nigeria in the past and should not suddenly be seen as dangerous.
“Where some people see negatives, we should see positives. Those who constantly project fear and pessimism, I see them as enemies of this country. Why didn’t we say this when Nigerians went to Liberia, Sierra Leone or Congo? Anytime Nigerians cooperate and act as a team, we get results,” he said.
He, however, stressed that Nigeria must take full responsibility for securing its territory.
According to him, foreign partners may provide air support and intelligence, but the Nigerian military and government must handle ground operations with seriousness.
“They may not put boots on the ground, but we must do the foot-on-ground work. We must deploy the necessary resources, and that is where state governments and local governments must support this effort,” he said.
On doubts surrounding the intelligence behind the strikes, Enenche said the level of precision clearly showed advanced surveillance and targeting capabilities beyond what Nigeria currently possesses.
“Look at the capacity, look at the weapons used. Do we have that capability? This was intelligence-driven and precise. These terrorists do not want to be followed to their staging or assembly areas,” he said.
The former army spokesman also warned that corruption and poor governance could weaken the gains if not addressed decisively. He urged the Federal Government to confront internal sabotage within the security system.
“We have to tackle corruption and poor leadership alongside this effort. There should be no sacred cows. From the highest rank to the lowest corporal, anyone found complicit should be dealt with decisively. Heaven will not fall,” he said.
Enenche added that international military cooperation often operates on mutual interest and should not be misunderstood. He said transparency is important, but secrecy in security agreements is sometimes unavoidable.
“A wise country always puts something on the table and looks at returns on investment. There is nothing wrong if some agreements are not made public. What matters is that Nigeria also puts its house in order,” he said.
He further called for expanded use of technology, especially drones, to maintain pressure on criminal groups. He suggested that collective funding by northern states could support a robust surveillance and strike system.
“Since we introduced surveillance drones in some areas, criminal activities reduced significantly for like six months. We need to expand this. If the 19 northern states are contributing N1bn monthly, that N19bn can be used to establish drone stations with surveillance and even lethal capabilities, as permitted,” he said.
Addressing growing opposition to the strikes, Enenche accused critics of undermining national interest. He specifically targeted individuals and groups condemning U.S. involvement.
“Anyone opposing this effort is anti-Nigerian. Either you have not lost a loved one, or you are benefiting directly from the insecurity. Even if it is my brother, my wife or my children, I will accuse them. The government should act decisively against such people,” he said.
He also rejected claims that Nigeria’s sovereignty or image would be damaged by foreign military support, insisting that saving lives must come first.
“Is this the first time Nigeria’s image has been damaged? No. We have already been labelled corrupt. But if this action saves lives, then the end justifies the means,” he said.
Enenche concluded by urging Nigerians to unite behind the security effort, warning that both external terrorists and internal collaborators must be confronted for the country to move forward.
“The government and the people must support this effort together. We must stop this monstrous menace, both the external terrorists and the internal collaborators, if Nigeria is to move forward,” he said.
Meanwhile, Politics Nigeria earlier reported that Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend all military cooperation with the United States following the airstrikes.
Gumi warned that American involvement could escalate instability and weaken Nigeria’s sovereignty. The cleric has previously faced criticism over comments seen as sympathetic to armed terrorist groups.
Africa’s creative economy has swiftly transitioned from cultural expression to a strategic economic powerhouse, fueling both cultural influence and financial opportunity across the region.
Driven by rapidly expanding internet access and mobile connectivity, the creator economy in Africa was valued at approximately $60 billion and is projected to balloon to nearly $200 billion by 2030 according to varying reports.
In Nigeria, where many adults engage with social media and platforms like TikTok reach roughly 44% of the country’s internet users, digital content creation is not just entertainment; it’s a significant economic force.
TikTok’s dramatic expansion, with its Nigerian user base growing more than 50% year‑on‑year, reflects broader shifts in how young Africans consume media, express identity, and monetize creativity.
Against this backdrop, Nigeria stands out not only for the size of its audience but for the global impact of its creators. The country’s short‑form video stars command millions of followers and billions of engagements, transforming personality, culture, and commerce into scalable digital value.
As brands, agencies, and marketers increasingly look to leverage influencer reach, Nigerian content creators have become central to shaping consumer narratives locally and internationally while redefining what it means to turn followers into sustainable economic contribution.
This report explores the Top 10 most-followed TikTok creators in Nigeria in 2025, spotlighting the personalities who embody this new digital frontier and the broader structural shifts propelling West Africa’s creative economy toward global relevance.
- Followers: 8.9M
- Total Likes:146.5M
Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Ejekwu, professionally known as Mr Funny or Oga Sabinus, is a Nigerian comedian, skit maker, actor, and social media content creator with a strong presence on TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. On TikTok alone, he boasts 8.9 million followers and 146.5 million likes, with his most-viewed video reaching 9.8 million views, showcasing his consistent ability to create highly engaging content that resonates with a wide audience.
Born in Rivers State and educated in Port Harcourt, Sabinus earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics and Communication Studies from the University of Port Harcourt. He discovered his talent for comedy during university, performing skits as early as 2015 during school events. By uploading these skits to social media especially Instagram, he gradually attracted attention from top Nigerian influencers, paving the way for mainstream success in 2019.
Over the years, Sabinus has expanded beyond short-form comedy into Nollywood, featuring in films like Billionaire’s Bride and Man of War.
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NIGERIA NEWS
“Arrest Sheikh Gumi now” – Tinubu urged to ‘arrest’ controversial cleric over open support for terrorists
A Catholic deacon and writer, Nick Donnelly, has called for the arrest and prosecution of Nigerian Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, over his reaction to recent United States military operations in Nigeria.
Background: U.S. Christmas Airstrikes in Sokoto
The United States carried out Christmas Day airstrikes targeting insurgents in parts of Sokoto State.
The operation was aimed at groups accused of violent attacks and killings in northern Nigeria.
What Gumi Said
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi reacted sharply to the development.
He reportedly urged the Federal Government to suspend any cooperation with the U.S. in actions targeting those he claimed were being accused of “genocide against Christians.”
Nick Donnelly took to X to condemn Gumi’s position, accusing the cleric of defending violent extremists.
In his words: “Sheikh Gumi protests President Trump’s Christmas military strikes against the bestial Islamist terrorists. Calling the terrorists conducting the genocide against Christians ‘our warriors’.”
“Gumi Must Face Justice”
The Catholic deacon did not stop there.
He insisted Gumi should face serious legal consequences for his alleged role in supporting terrorism.
He stated: “Gumi must be arrested and put on trial for crimes against humanity.”
Call to President Tinubu
Donnelly also called out President Bola Tinubu, insisting the Nigerian leader must not stay silent on the matter.
“Tinubu must publicly condemn Gumi or else he is declaring his complicity in his crimes,” he added.
President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the ongoing recalibration of the nation’s security architecture would soon yield results capable of restoring public confidence.
The President gave the assurance on Friday during a meeting with a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence.
This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu said his administration remained committed to security sector reforms, including the establishment of state and community policing to address emerging threats across the country.
“The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are so large. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it,” the president said.
He called on religious leaders to support government efforts through cooperation, vigilance and prayers, noting that some security measures required time to mature.
“We are very religious. We are prayer warriors. We need your focus, vigilance and cooperation,”
The president said state and community police would become a reality once the National Assembly completed the required legislative processes.
“Community and State Police will be a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” he said.
Tinubu explained that delays in acquiring military hardware were affecting public perception, noting that such equipment was expensive and not readily available.
“Military hardware is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not available off the shelf,”
He disclosed that Nigeria had ordered four attack helicopters from the United States, while also engaging Turkey for additional support.
“Our orders for four attack helicopters from the United States of America will take some time to arrive. We have approached Turkey for assistance,”
The president said the government remained resolute despite the guerrilla tactics of bandits and insurgents, stressing that restoring peace remained a top priority.
On the recent abduction and release of school children in Niger and Kebbi States, Tinubu urged vigilance, saying the safety of the victims was paramount.
“The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means,” he said.
Responding, CAN President, Okoh, assured Tinubu of the Christian community’s support for his administration.
“You are our President. The Church has no choice but to support you and your administration,” Okoh said.
He commended the administration’s efforts at improving security, noting that the 2025 Christmas season was notably peaceful.
“This Christmas happened to be the first in many years that we were not woken up by midnight calls reporting attacks on churches,” he said.
Okoh also praised Tinubu’s engagement with religious bodies, saying it had strengthened trust between the government and the Church.
“Your commitment has closed the gap between the government and the Church. This has never happened before,” he said.
The CAN President appealed for sustained engagement through CAN’s structures at the 774 local government areas and requested the release of funds to the Christian Pilgrims’ Board.
Other members of the delegation included Vice President of CAN, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; and representatives of the Catholic, Methodist and African Instituted Churches.
(NAN)
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday distributed 1,000 bags of 25kg rice to the Christian community in Bauchi State as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Speaking at the flag-off in Bauchi, the Bauchi State Coordinator of the Christian Northern Nigerian Political Forum (CNNPF), Ayuba Dogara, commended the First Lady for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful in supporting Christian faithful during the festive season.
Ayuba noted that the First Lady extended similar support to other Northern states, targeting the less privileged, widows, youths, and leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, the 1,000 bags of rice allocated to Bauchi State would be distributed across the 20 local government areas of the state through recognised groups and coordinators to ensure that the items reached the intended beneficiaries.
“We are here to flag off the distribution of food items donated to Bauchi State by Her Excellency, the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu,” he said.
Ayuba also praised President Bola Tinubu for his efforts aimed at stabilising the country, adding that the relative peace being enjoyed in Nigeria was a result of purposeful leadership.
He urged local government coordinators to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution process, stressing that the success of the gesture depended on the items reaching the actual beneficiaries.
“I urge beneficiaries to receive these items with gratitude and to pray for the First Lady and the administration of her husband,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Bege Matandu expressed appreciation to the First Lady, saying the donation would help ease the economic hardship faced by many families during the Christmas period.
Also speaking, the APC Chairman of Bogoro Local Government Area, Mr Istifanus Mmanasi, described the gesture as a sign of inclusive governance.
He said the donation had renewed hope among Christians and APC members in the area, adding that it demonstrated the government’s sensitivity to the needs of ordinary citizens.
Mmanasi further appreciated the collaboration between President Tinubu and the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, noting that such synergy would continue to bring development to the constituency and the state.
He encouraged APC members and supporters to remain united and committed to the party’s vision as the country moves towards 2027, expressing confidence that continuity and stability would keep Nigeria on the right path.
Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers accused of terrorising residents of Sarau Belel community in Maiha Local Government Area of the state.
The arrest followed a complaint received on December 26, 2025, from Mr. Emmanuel Daniel of Sagal Village, Sarau Belel.
According to the police, Daniel reported that he was being threatened with abduction by two men who allegedly claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of his younger brother, Joshua Daniel, in November 2024.
“Daniel reported that he was being threatened with abduction by two men who allegedly claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of his younger brother, Joshua Daniel, in November 2024,” the statement read.
Police said the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa State, Mr. Dankombo Morris, ordered an immediate response upon receiving the report.
Operatives, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Sarau Belel, subsequently carried out a coordinated operation which led to the arrest of the suspects.
The suspects were identified as Sunday Yakubu, 36, and Daniel Yakubu, 38, both residents of Konjoli Village in Maiha Local Government Area.
Police sources disclosed that during interrogation, the suspects confessed to the allegations and are currently assisting investigators with useful information to aid further investigations.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has directed the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take over the case to ensure a thorough investigation and diligent prosecution of the suspects in accordance with the law.
The Adamawa State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
NIGERIA NEWS
US airstrike in Sokoto: I’m not afraid of Trump, attack didn’t harm any bandit – Asari Dokubo
Former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has said that the United States airstrikes in Sokoto State did not kill any bandits.
Asari said the airstrikes achieved nothing because the missiles landed on empty land and caused no real damage.
In a video shared on X, Asari re-emphasized that he is not afraid of US President Donald Trump.
Asari also said the US only used drones in Sokoto and described the whole operation as fake.
He charged the Nigerian government to show proof that the airstrikes killed at least one terrorist.
The former freedom fighter argued that the US cannot send its soldiers into Nigeria because the West African country is an independent nation.
He said: “The US army strike in Sokoto did not harm any bandits. They only dropped bombs in an open field, endangering the lives of innocent people. Do you think I’m afraid of President Donald Trump?”
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday, December 26, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace in Sokoto State.
The visit underscored the Nigerian Army’s renewed commitment to strengthening civil–military relations and deepening collaboration with traditional institutions to enhance national unity, peace and security.
During the meeting, Lieutenant General Shaibu reiterated the resolve of the Nigerian Army to partner with traditional rulers and community leaders in promoting stability, peaceful coexistence and security across the country.
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He noted that traditional institutions remain critical stakeholders in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution and community engagement efforts aimed at addressing security challenges.
In his response, the Sultan of Sokoto commended the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices and steadfast efforts in protecting lives and property nationwide.
He prayed for the continued success of the Army in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities and assured the COAS of the support of traditional institutions in fostering peace and national cohesion.
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No fewer than two soldiers and dozens of civilians were reported feared dead following a recent attack in Garaha District of Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Christmas day.
Reports from Garaha District, the home town of former Secretary of the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha indicated that the insurgents numbering in hundreds invaded the town and overpowered the security in place.
Eye witness who spoke with Journalists on condition of anonymity in Hong, said the bandits first invaded Mayo Ladde, under Garaha which borders Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State near Sambisa Forest.
He said troops of the 144 Battalion, the Police and the Civilian JTF were taken unawares as Boko Haram invaded the Garaha Market before killing two soldiers whose bodies were later taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Hong.
However, number of civilian casualties that lost their lives could be ascertained but eyewitnesses said the situation was gravely deplorable as the entire community are enveloped with uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the Adamawa State Police Spokesperson, ASP Yahaya Ngurore who confirmed the attack with our Correspondent Saturday said attack took place Friday night and that security operative are on ground for assessments, adding that the situation has been brought under control.
ASP Ngurore said the “anti terror unit based in Garaha District received several reports of distress calls by 2am yesterday night and the unit in collaboration with the 144 Battalion of the Nigerian Army including JTF responded swiftly to the cries of the people of Garaha but during the attack several lives were lost including that of two soldiers”.
Management of the FMC Hong confirmed to journalist who visited, that some soldiers were taken to the hospital including those injured and those who could not survive the attack and were deprived from visiting Garaha due to the dangerous situation there.
However, efforts to reach the Chairman Hong Local Government Area proved abortive while attempts to also reach the Army Public Relations officer of the 23 Brigade for a statement on the development also proved abortive as calls put to him were rejected.
New Telegraph reports that Garaha which borders Sambisa Forest have been unfortunately a target of the insurgents for several years due to its proximity.
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