NIGERIA NEWS
Lagos mobile courts order remand of 6 over assault on LASTMA, others
- As 56 vehicles impounded at Lagos Airport Road
The Lagos State Mobile Courts, on Tuesday, ordered the remand of six suspected notorious miscreants apprehended for a violent assault on personnel of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and other sister agencies.
This is as the agency has impounded 56 vehicles for various traffic and environmental infractions at the Lagos Airport Road.
A statement on Wednesday by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, said that the attack took place during a coordinated midnight enforcement operation along Airport Road, Lagos.
The statement hinted that seven miscreants had carried out the attack, but one of the suspects entered a plea of not guilty and was consequently admitted to bail, while the six others were remanded in custody.
According to Taofiq, the seven suspects were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate of the Lagos State Mobile Court on four-count charges.
The case was, however, adjourned to February 19, 2026, for further hearing.
The enforcement exercise, Taofiq said, was led by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, and in strategic collaboration with other government agencies, including security operatives, the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Corps, the Lagos State Task Force, and LASTMA field officers.
He emphasised that the operation was conducted after a formal complaint submitted by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), which lamented the persistent and unlawful encroachment on its facilities by criminal syndicates and recalcitrant commercial bus operators operating in flagrant defiance of extant regulations.
Taofiq expressed that during the execution of the enforcement operation, five officers of the joint task force were viciously attacked with dangerous weapons, while one of the authority’s tow trucks was deliberately set ablaze by the rampaging miscreants in a desperate attempt to sabotage the exercise and challenge the authority of the state.
No fewer than 56 vehicles were impounded for various traffic and environmental infractions, comprising 44 commercial buses, five private vehicles, and seven trucks.
Bakare-Oki reiterated the resolve of the State Government to safeguard critical public infrastructure, guarantee the safety of all road users, and uphold law and order across the metropolis.
He warned that the government would neither capitulate to intimidation nor tolerate violence from criminal elements.
He vowed that every act of lawlessness would be met decisively with the full weight of the law.
The statement added: “LASTMA boss further assures members of the public that enforcement operations along critical and strategic corridors of Lagos will remain continuous, intensified, and firmly anchored within the confines of the law, in close collaboration with sister agencies, to eradicate criminality, restore public order, and safeguard lives and property.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has called on Nigerians to reject what it called distorted or falsified tax law, stressing the importance of inclusivity and fairness in the formulation of fiscal policies.
The NLC emphasised that laws affecting workers must be carefully crafted to avoid serious errors or political manipulations that could harm the majority.
The President of the Labour union, Joe Ajaero, in a statement titled, “Our hope lies in collective action”, highlighted the need for workers to unite in protecting their interests, wages, pensions, and dignity.
He called for social and tax justice, insisting that all citizens must have access to quality healthcare, education, and security, while workers’ rights and rewards are respected.
“It is better to patiently craft a law that is broadly co-created and owned than rush into one filled with serious errors and outright political manipulations.
“We must insist on social justice where all citizens have access to dignity, good healthcare, and quality education; greater equity for workers where labour is justly rewarded and rights are respected; and a safe and secure nation where lives and properties are guaranteed and people can move about their businesses without fear or intimidation,” the statement read in part.
Ajaero further emphasized that the power of workers lies in unity and collective action. He urged Nigerians to stand together to resist policies that inflict suffering and exploit the population, warning against divisions based on tribe, religion, or region.
NLC demands total rejection of tax law
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has approved the appointment of 15 aides as part of efforts to strengthen the party’s administrative and strategic framework.
Naija News reports that the appointments, which cut across Special Advisers, Advisers and Senior Special Assistants, were announced on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
The development was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy to the APC chairman, Abimbola Tokin.
Tokin explained that the appointments were aimed at improving coordination, policy formulation and stakeholder engagement at the party’s national secretariat.
According to him, the newly appointed aides are expected to bring their wealth of experience and professionalism to bear in supporting the national chairman in driving the party’s agenda.
Tokin noted that Prof. Yilwatda congratulated the appointees and charged them to show dedication, loyalty and commitment to the ideals and objectives of the APC.
“The appointments take immediate effect,” he said.
Those appointed as Special Advisers include Sen. Danladi Sankara (Political Matters), Daniel Oritsegbubemi (National Assembly Matters), and Dr Sorochi Longdet (Research, Strategy and Planning).
The Advisers are Mr Jubrin Surajo (Community Engagement), Mr Paul Domsing (Special Duties), Mr Suleiman Bukari (Intelligence Coordination), and Prof. Taiwo Balofin, who will serve as Honorary Adviser on Diaspora Coordination and Mobilisation.
The Senior Special Assistants appointed include Imran Muhammad (New Media), Mildred Bako (Civil Society Organisations), Juliet Obinta (Youth Mobilisation), and Ismaila Mohammed (Conflict Management).
Others are Zarah Onyinye (Media–Public Affairs), Mrs Enenedu Idusuyi (Protocol), Yusuf Dingyadi (Media), and Adaku Apugo (Media).
The appointments are seen as part of ongoing efforts by the APC leadership to reposition the party ahead of future political engagements and strengthen its internal structures.
Tragedy struck the Kano State House of Assembly on Wednesday as two serving lawmakers were reported dead within minutes of each other, sending shockwaves across the state’s political landscape.
Reports indicate that Aminu Saadu, representing Ungogo constituency, fell ill shortly after arriving at the Assembly earlier in the day and was immediately rushed to a hospital, where doctors later confirmed his death.
While the lawmaker representing Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, reportedly passed away barely minutes after news broke of the death of his colleague, Hon. Aminu Sa’adu.
The close timing of the deaths of the two legislators, both prominent members of the Kano State House of Assembly, has left lawmakers, political stakeholders, and residents of the state in deep shock and mourning.
The death of Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji was officially confirmed by the spokesperson to the Kano State Governor, Sanusi Bature, who announced the sad development in a post on his verified Facebook page
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President Bola Tinubu says he remains committed to doing everything within his power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.
President Tinubu stated this in his Christmas goodwill message to Nigerians on Wednesday.
“As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence,” he said in the message he personally signed.
He said that since he assumed office in 2023, he has continually reassured Nigerians of his administration’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of the country.
President Tinubu said throughout 2025, he had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity. We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
Read the full message
PRESIDENT TINUBU’S 2025 CHRISTMAS GOODWILL MESSAGE
My Fellow Nigerians,
As we mark this year’s Christmas, may the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us all.
Beyond the celebration and festivities of this season, Christmas reminds us to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth and his message of salvation as the Prince of Peace.
On this Holy Day, I wish all Christians in Nigeria and around the world a Merry Christmas. I thank God for the opportunity to serve as the leader of our great country, and I pray for peace in our land, especially among individuals of differing religious beliefs.
As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us also reflect on the many contributions that Christians in Nigeria, as followers of Christ, have made and continue to make toward the progress of our country.
The love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many Christians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged in our society. We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.
For those who bring hope and faith in the midst of despair, this season is a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God is with us.
Since I assumed office in 2023, I have continually reassured Nigerians of our unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.
That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. All Nigerians have the right to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith. The love for God and love for humanity is at the heart of all the great faiths. These shared values must continue to bind us together as one indivisible and resilient people of our blessed country.
Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity. We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
As many Nigerians travel to reunite with family and loved ones during this holiday period, I urge all citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.
I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations.
With confidence in divine providence and our collective strength, we will continue the work of building a greater Nigeria, one that future generations will be proud of.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 25, 2025
By Stellamaries Amuwa, Abuja
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed sadness over the loss of its 7th Director-General (DG), Brigadier General Soyemi Ayodele Sofoluwe (Rtd.), who passed on recently.
During a condolence visit to the deceased’s family in Lagos, the incumbent DG, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, paid tribute to him for his remarkable contributions to the growth of the NYSC during his tenure as Chief Executive.
The DG described his death as a great loss, not only to the family, but also the NYSC and the entire nation.
He prayed God to grant the late General eternal rest, and comfort his family.
Nafiu also assured the widow and matriarch of the Sofoluwe family, Colonel Kehinde Sofoluwe (Rtd.) of NYSC’s support during the funeral rites.
Sofoluwe, fondly called ‘Oga Show’ by Corps Members and NYSC staff, was known and loved for his amiable, compassionate, and witty personality.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
- A young woman got many people talking online after she shared a WhatsApp chat with her boyfriend
- The chat included a screenshot showing the money he sent her and a voice note he recorded about it
- She rejected the conditions he attached to the money after hearing the unexpected things he asked her to do
A Nigerian lady shared the strict instructions her boyfriend gave her after sending her ₦35,000 for Christmas, as revealed in a video that has gone viral.
The lady appeared in the video and attached a caption to the post.
Lady refuses boyfriend’s rules for her. Photo Source: Tiktok/bluzie05
Source: TikTok
Lady angry at boyfriend over Christmas money
Seconds into the TikTok video, a WhatsApp chat was displayed, showing the conversation between the lady and her boyfriend.
According to her, @bluzie05, her boyfriend sent her the money to plait her hair and instructed that she should not remove the hairstyle until a specific date, which she mentioned.
Read also
Nigerian mum of 4 based in Canada gets over N1m after her marriage crashed as Nigerians support her
After sending the money, the boyfriend told her:
“Money wey I send give you so, na March you for lose the hair o, make them tight am well oo.”
In response, the lady fired back and described his statement as rubbish talk.
She said:
“I no really understand, which kind rubbish talk be all these ones. You send me 35,000 make I take do hair and I go use am till March. No be your mate dey send their babe 200k, 500k no dey give me condition o.”
She explained that she only wanted to keep the hairstyle for December and asked her boyfriend to send his account number so she could refund the money if he didn’t agree.
Lady angry at boyfriend over Christmas money. Photo Source: Tiktok/bluzie05
Source: TikTok
She continued:
“Na only December I wan carry this hair. If you know say you no go gree, send your account number make I send your money back. Which kind rubbish talk be this, I no dey like am.”
Read also
Lady marries man despite discovering he slept with her bestie, dumps him after 2 months: “I won”
Her statement got him furious, as he responded angrily to her words:
“All these your pickup line, you go cut am off o. I send you 35k make you take plait hair, the only thing wey I talk be say no lose am till March. Simple as that, I no talk another thing. You come dey complain say babe wey dey give their babe 200k, 500k. If e easy, go find the boy wey dey give 200k and 500k. Which kind mumu talk be that one.”When me and you meet, you plait hair? No be all back you carry for head? I wan give you 35k, you dey compare me. Which kind dirty talk be that one. Last warning.”
Reactions as lady argues with boyfriend
Daddy K said:
“Why march? No no stop it.. Watin do July or August?”
Moh’s wrote:
“Guy dey try to avoid February 14.”
Moh’s shared:
“Guy dey try to avoid February 14.”
Princy_fundz noted:
Read also
“I still stayed with him”: Nigerian lady makes a list of things her ex did to her
“Bro collect am bk play that 5 odds ooo e go enter.”
Wilfred C Wilfred stated:
“Na that comparism spoil everything.”
XO wrote:
“Na that one no get wetin he won use money do.”
SJ Gold woli-koshofe said:
“No hold am tight make them collect am from your hand nah so you go no all this guy way Dey hi you no really send you.”
user4715825922879 added:
“My baby never ask of anything ooo please guys what does that mean.”
Sunnex shared:
“Some guy no get joy ooo……I wish I can be like this your boyfriend.”
riseupran stressed:
“He dn talk him own, if you like nr stay guided.”
H-TO noted:
“The guy after sending the money be like.”
DUBBZY GARMENT said:
“Transfer the money nah, make him use am okay 5odd abeg.”
Watch the video below:
In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a Nigerian woman said her husband raised chickens to sell, but people did not buy them even during Christmas.
Read also
Lady cries out after getting trapped in client’s elevator, video trends: “I am scared, my legs are hurting”
Man walks after taxi charges ₦30k
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that a Nigerian man shared his experience after arriving at the Asaba Airport in Delta State for the Christmas holidays, where a taxi driver allegedly charged him ₦30,000 for a short ride to his hotel.
The man refused to pay the amount, insisting the distance did not justify the fare, and chose to walk instead, sparking reactions online.
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian lady has stirred conversations online after opening up about a missed romantic opportunity that ended almost as quickly as it began.
In a viral video shared by Teniola on X, she explained that the man in question was tall, attractive, and appeared genuinely serious about pursuing a romantic relationship with her.
Wanting to avoid seeming too eager, she decided to play it cool with a bit of small shakara.
She explained that she did not want to accept his advances immediately because she felt everything needed time to process.
However, before she could circle back and soften her stance, the man had already disappeared completely.
In her words, she said:
“I give in easily before. So this time, I tried to act hard to get. Before I turned back, he was nowhere to be found. Men, if you’re asking a woman out, always be patient. And the guy is tall and fine. I’m so pained.”
Now she is left with regret, along with a hard lesson learned.
Her story quickly attracted mixed reactions online. One commenter noted that some men no longer have the patience for shakara, while another warned that a closed mouth and slow response can make someone miss destiny.
In today’s fast paced dating culture, timing and communication matter more than ever. While some still believe in playing hard to get, others argue that clarity helps prevent unnecessary heartbreak.
One thing seems certain, a little shakara can sometimes cost a lot more than expected.
Watch video below…
You’re toasting me and I just say I should do small shakara, before I look back you already left, and the guy is tall and fine, I’m pa!ned” — Lady pic.twitter.com/wQkaw0X3ff
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 24, 2025
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Working Committee, NWC, loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has approved the appointment of a Caretaker Committee in Oyo State.
A statement by Umar Bature, the National Organising Secretary of the Caretaker Committee, named Prof Abdulrahman Akinoso as Chairman and Biola Olanipekun as Secretary.
The statement titled: “Appointment of Oyo State Caretaker Committee,” said: “The National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has approved the appointment of the following as OYO STate Caretaker Committee.
“Accordingly, the assignment takes effect from December 24th 2025 and the Committee is charged with the responsibility of running the affairs of the Party in Oyo State as stipulated in Section 21(2) (a-b) of our Party Constitution for a period not exceeding 30 days.”
Those appointed include, Prof Abdulrahman Akinoso – Chairman, Mr Adio daudaTolani – member, Hon Ali Hammed Okesola – Member, Prince Adewale Lukuman Adewale – Member, Mr Tunde Sikiru Adeniran – Member, Alhaja Risikat Kola Popoola – Member, and Hon Kabiru Adesokan- Member.
Others include, Hon Yekini Adebisi Toyosi – Member, Hon Rotimi Adewuyi – Member, Hon Musbau Olayowola – Member, Hon Oyewole Olaosebikan – Member, Hon Abideen Olarewaju – Member, Comrade Akinloye Oyeniyi- Member, Chief Bili Muraina – Member, Hon Dauda Ramon Bamibeke-Member, Barr Babatunde Akinola -Member, and Dr Biola Olanipekun- Secretary.
A former Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Adigun-Hammed, has predicted a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Oyo State in the 2027 elections.
Adigun-Hammed described as “unthinkable” the idea that President Tinubu would entrust the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State to Governor Seyi Makinde.
His comments came in reaction to statements attributed to Makinde during a media chat on Tuesday, in which the governor allegedly claimed that former Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike offered to deliver Oyo State to Tinubu—a proposal Makinde purportedly declined.
In a statement, Adigun-Hammed dismissed Makinde’s claim as false, asserting that the governor could not be trusted with any political arrangement. He cited Makinde’s alleged betrayals of former governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Senator Olufemi Lanlehin, Senator Sarafadeen Alli, and other political stakeholders who supported him in 2019, warning that such behavior could extend to anyone.
The former lawmaker also raised questions about a contract Makinde said he was awarded in 1997, reportedly valued at $1 million, urging Nigerians to seek clarity on its execution.
Adigun-Hammed further claimed that the APC was gaining momentum in Oyo State, arguing that residents were beginning to see through what he called Makinde’s “pretence and political games.”
“Makinde has proved to be a serial liar and pretender. How can his ally ask President Tinubu to give Oyo State to ‘arrange’ for us, when we have three senators, nine House of Representatives members, three former deputy governors, ex-ministers, and experienced politicians? Such a claim is a lie from the pit of hell,” he said.
He also accused Makinde of failing to acknowledge the support he received from the President and other stakeholders during his re-election bid in 2023, instead repaying them with falsehoods.
Looking ahead to 2027, Adigun-Hammed expressed full confidence that President Tinubu would defeat Governor Makinde—and any candidate Makinde supports—predicting a decisive victory for the APC in Oyo State.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a committee on strategy, conflict resolution and mobilisation to address internal disputes in the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
The inauguration took place on Wednesday in Lagos.
The committee comprises governors, members of the Federal Executive Council and other party stakeholders.
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe state, was named chairman of the committee, while aMuiz Banire, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former APC legal adviser, will serve as member and secretary of the committee.
Other members include Senator Adamu Aliero representing Kebbi central, Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo state.
The list also includes Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, minister of marine and blue economy, Bello Matawalle, minister of state for defence, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi state, are also members.
Speaking at the inauguration, Buni thanked the president and the party for the confidence reposed in the committee.
He said the committee would approach the assignment with “utmost responsibility and dedication”.
“The committee will engage in strategic engagements and consultations to develop an all-encompassing, productive and result-oriented strategy that will stand the test of time.
“We shall implement a system that gives everyone, especially aggrieved parties, a sense of belonging and inclusion, with a renewed hope.
“Similarly, the committee will consider proactive measures, solutions, and the potential threats in our conflict resolution approach,” he said.
Governor Buni urged members not to allow personal interests and sentiments to override the general interest of the party.
President Tinubu had earlier emphasised the need for cohesion within the APC at the party’s 15th national executive committee meeting held on December 19 in Abuja.
He said the APC was founded on progressive ideals, broad-based participation and respect for diversity of opinion.
“We must continue to be resolute that this democracy that we take in our hands must not fail. We say we are bigger. We are larger and taller.
“But it should now be in our hearts to be accommodating. That’s the only way we can be resilient, we must be tolerant,” the president said.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has demanded ₦25 billion in damages from the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, over alleged defamation of character and libel.
According to reports, the governor also demanded a public apology from the PDP state chairman, to be published in three national daily newspapers.
The demands were contained in a letter dated 22 December 2025, addressed to Aziegbemi and signed by the governor’s lawyer, R.I.D. Okezie, Esq.
The letter, titled “Demand for damages and apologies for defamation of the character of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo,” accused Aziegbemi of making defamatory statements against the governor.
Governor Okpebholo reportedly gave the PDP chairman a seven-day ultimatum to pay the ₦25 billion damages and publish a retraction in three national dailies.
Parts of the letter stated that the governor’s attention was drawn to a press release allegedly issued by Aziegbemi, described as the factional chairman of the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee, on 7 January 2025.
The release was said to have been widely circulated by newspapers and online media platforms, allegedly containing statements that disparaged the governor’s reputation and the office he occupies.
The letter further claimed that the publication ridiculed the governor’s image, which it said he had built over the years as a responsible politician, dating back to his time as a senator in the National Assembly.
Gold climbed above $4,500 an ounce for the first time in history on Wednesday, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in Venezuela and expectations of further U.S. interest rate cuts.
Silver and platinum also advanced to record levels, reflecting a broad rally across precious metals.
Spot gold rose nearly 1% in early trading, extending a three-day winning streak, before easing to trade little changed.
The surge reflects investors’ flight to safe-haven assets amid U.S. sanctions on Venezuelan oil tankers and growing bets that the Federal Reserve will lower borrowing costs in 2026.
Best annual performance since 1979
Gold has gained nearly 70% this year, while silver has soared almost 150%, both on track for their strongest annual performance since 1979.
The rally has been supported by elevated central-bank purchases and steady inflows into exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
According to the World Gold Council, holdings in gold-backed ETFs have increased every month this year except May. State Street Corp.’s SPDR Gold Trust, the largest precious-metals ETF, has expanded by more than a fifth in 2025.
Gold rebounded quickly after retreating from its October peak of $4,381 an ounce, signaling resilience in investor appetite. Goldman Sachs projects prices could reach $4,900 an ounce in 2026, with risks skewed to the upside.
Silver’s spectacular rally
Silver broke through $70 an ounce for the first time on Tuesday, climbing as much as 1.8% to a record $72.70.
The metal’s rally has outpaced gold, fueled by speculative inflows and lingering supply disruptions following a historic short squeeze in October.
Despite significant inflows into London vaults, much of the world’s silver remains concentrated in New York as traders await the outcome of a U.S. Commerce Department probe into critical minerals imports. The investigation could lead to tariffs or restrictions.
Platinum extends winning streak
Platinum also surged, jumping 4% to surpass $2,300 an ounce for the first time since Bloomberg began tracking data in 1987.
The metal, widely used in automotive and jewelry industries, has risen for 10 consecutive sessions, its longest winning streak since 2017.
Platinum has gained about 150% this year, the largest annual increase on record, amid tight supplies and disruptions in South Africa, a major producer. Analysts warn the market is heading for a third consecutive annual deficit.
More insight
Gold’s 14-day relative strength index (RSI) climbed to 81, while silver’s RSI hovered near 82 — both well above the threshold of 70 that typically signals overbought conditions.
At 12:11 p.m. in London, spot gold edged up 0.2% to $4,494.75 an ounce, after hitting a record $4,525.77 earlier. Silver traded at $72.33, while platinum rose 1.2%. Palladium, however, gave up earlier gains.
What you should know
Earlier in December, a new outlook released by the World Gold Council projected gold to maintain its upward trajectory, surging by 15-30% in 2026.
The precious metal delivered a standout performance in 2025, recording more than 50 all-time highs and generating returns of over 60%.
This surge was driven by heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty, a weakening US dollar, and strong positive price momentum.
The report noted that both institutional and retail investors, alongside central banks, boosted their exposure to gold as they sought diversification and stability.
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Indian authorities have arrested a 29-year-old Nigerian lady, identified as Olajide Esther Iyanuoluwa, for allegedly trafficking cocaine concealed inside loaves of bread in a bid to beat security checks.
Cocaine Worth Over ₹1.2 Crore Seized
According to The Times of India, officials of the Central Crime Branch recovered 121 grams of cocaine, estimated at ₹1.2 crore, from the suspect.
Investigators said the case reflects a worrying trend where smugglers increasingly use everyday food items to move narcotics undetected.
Fake Student Status Exposed
Police findings revealed that Olajide entered India last year on a student visa, claiming to be studying in the country.
However, investigations confirmed she never registered with any school.
Instead, she repeatedly moved between different locations in Mumbai, including Ghatkopar, Ambawadi, Gala Nagar, and Nallasopara, allegedly engaging in drug trafficking activities.
Linked to Drug Network Across Indian Cities
Authorities said Olajide sourced the cocaine from a male associate in Mumbai and was instructed to personally deliver it to another Nigerian buyer in Bengaluru.
Investigators explained that the decision to transport the drugs by hand was to avoid courier tracking and reduce suspicion.
“She was directed to carry the drug herself and hand it over to another Nigerian national residing in Bengaluru. This was done to minimise suspicion and avoid courier-based interception,” an investigating officer revealed.
Arrest Followed Intelligence Tip-Off
The CCB launched a discreet operation after receiving intel that the suspect was travelling by private bus from Mumbai to Bengaluru.
She was intercepted shortly after she arrived in the city.
A search of her backpack revealed loaves of bread with holes drilled inside, where the cocaine was carefully hidden among other food items.
Intended Recipient Also Arrested
Following her confession, police carried out a follow-up operation near Varthur where they apprehended the intended recipient of the drugs.
Authorities confirmed that the Nigerian buyer was deported soon after his arrest.
NIGERIA NEWS
Ahead of 2027 Polls, Tinubu Inaugurates Gov Mai Buni-led 15-man APC Committee On Strategy, Conflict Resolution And Mobilisation – THISDAYLIVE
.Members include Uzodimma, Abdulrahman, Oyebanji, Fubara, Banire, Bello, Oyetola
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated a Committee on Strategy, Conflict Resolution and Mobilisation to resolve conflicts within the All Progressives Congress as it approaches the 2027 general elections.
The committee, which comprises Governors of the party, members of the Federal Executive Council, and other notable stakeholders, has the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Bala Buni, as Chairman, and Muiz Banire, former Legal Adviser of the APC, as Member/Secretary.
Other members include Senator Adamu Aliero, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; Chairman of Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta).
Governors Uba Sani (Kaduna), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, are also members.
Speaking at the inauguration of the committee in Lagos on Wednesday, Governor Mai Buni, according to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga,
expressed gratitude for being chosen as the chairman and for the party’s confidence in the members.
He said the committee would execute the assignment with utmost responsibility and dedication.
According to him: “The committee will engage in strategic engagements and consultations to develop an all-encompassing, productive and result-oriented strategy that will stand the test of time. We shall implement a system that gives everyone, especially aggrieved parties, a sense of belonging and inclusion, with a renewed hope.
“Similarly, the committee will consider proactive measures, solutions, and the potential threats in our conflict resolution approach”.
He urged members “not to allow personal interest and sentiments to override the general interest and purpose for which this committee is constituted.”
President Tinubu had on Friday, December 19, at the 15th National Executive Committee meeting of the All Progressives Congress, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, harped on the need for cohesion within the ruling party.
He reminded party leaders that the APC was built on the ideals of progressive politics, broad-based participation, and respect for diversity of opinion.
The President had said at the meeting: “We must continue to be resolute that this democracy that we take in our hands must not fail. We say we are bigger. We are larger and taller. But it should now be in our hearts to be accommodating. That’s the only way we can be resilient, we must be tolerant.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a high-powered Committee on Strategy, Conflict Resolution and Mobilisation for the All Progressives Congress (APC), tasking it with resolving internal disputes and strengthening party cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The committee was inaugurated on Wednesday in Lagos as part of moves by the party leadership to consolidate unity and avert internal crises that could undermine its electoral fortunes.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the committee draws its membership from APC governors, members of the Federal Executive Council and other key stakeholders across the party.
Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, was named chairman of the committee, while former APC National Legal Adviser, Muiz Banire, will serve as member and secretary.
Other members include Senator Adamu Aliero; Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; as well as Governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta).
Also on the committee are Governors Uba Sani (Kaduna) and Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers); Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; and former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
Speaking at the inauguration, Buni thanked President Tinubu and the party leadership for the confidence reposed in him and other members, pledging that the committee would discharge its mandate with diligence and a strong sense of responsibility.
He said the panel would embark on wide consultations to design a durable strategy for managing internal disagreements.
“The committee will engage in strategic engagements and consultations to develop an all-encompassing, productive and result-oriented strategy that will stand the test of time,” Buni said.
According to him, special attention would be paid to inclusiveness and reconciliation within the party.
“We shall implement a system that gives everyone, especially aggrieved parties, a sense of belonging and inclusion, with a renewed hope,” he added.
Buni also noted that the committee would adopt a proactive approach in identifying potential flashpoints.
“Similarly, the committee will consider proactive measures, solutions, and the potential threats in our conflict resolution approach,” he said, urging members not to allow “personal interest and sentiments to override the general interest and purpose for which this committee is constituted.”
The inauguration followed President Tinubu’s earlier call for unity at the APC’s 15th National Executive Committee meeting held on December 19 at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, where he underscored the need for cohesion within the ruling party.
At that meeting, the President reminded party leaders that the APC was founded on progressive ideals, broad-based participation and respect for diversity of opinion, warning that internal intolerance could weaken the party’s democratic credentials.
“We must continue to be resolute that this democracy that we take in our hands must not fail. We say we are bigger. We are larger and taller. But it should now be in our hearts to be accommodating. That’s the only way we can be resilient; we must be tolerant”, Tinubu said.