NIGERIA NEWS
Plateau Muslim Group Reaffirms Commitment To Peaceful Existence
A group, the Indigenous Muslims Association of Plateau State (IMAP), has said as a faith based organisation, it is committed to upholding the true practice of Islam anchored on love for one another, peace and unity.
It vowed to continue to stand against fanaticism, radical ideologies where extremists are hibernating under the guise of Islam to cause problems in the state.
The group’s secretary, Hon. Babuga Yusuf Umar, made the disclosure during a chat with newsmen in Jos.
According to him, Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s performance in the last two years speaks volume, adding that he needs to be supported in 2027 to consolidate on the gains of democracy in the state.
“We want to sincerely commend the Governor for his relentless efforts in driving developments and ensuring that peace has returned so that the state will reclaim its rightful position as the home of peace and tourism.
“We want to pledge our total loyalty and support to Governor Caleb Mutfwang anywhere he goes. We will continue to work with him for the overall interest of the state.
“His administration in the last two years has recorded tremendous achievements in the area of Security, Agriculture, Education and most especially the unprecedented roads constructions and rehabilitation among many others in the state,” he said.
The Federal Government FG has clarified that recent United States (US) airstrikes on terrorist targets in a Sokoto village were carried out under existing Nigeria–United States security cooperation and intelligence collaboration.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said Nigeria remains engaged in structured security partnerships with international allies, including the United States, to tackle terrorism and violent extremism.
According to him, the cooperation has supported coordinated security actions against terrorist groups operating in the North-West.
“This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.
“In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security,” Ebienfa said.
He stressed that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy prioritises civilian protection and national cohesion.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity.
“Terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” he added.
Ebienfa further noted that the Federal Government continues to work with its partners through diplomatic and security channels to dismantle terrorist networks, cut off their funding and logistics, and curb cross-border threats.
He said these efforts are also aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions and intelligence capacity.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through appropriate official channels,” he stated.
Earlier, United States President Donald Trump announced the operation in a post on his Truth Social platform.
“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!
“I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was. The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing.”
Confirming the action, the United States Africa Command said the strikes were conducted in Sokoto State with the cooperation of the Nigerian Government.
“At the direction of the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, and in coordination with Nigerian authorities, U.S. Africa Command conducted strikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025, in Sokoto State,” it said.
Reacting to the development on X, United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked the Federal Government for its cooperation, stating, “More to come…”.
Obinwanne Okeke, a Nigerian entrepreneur popularly known as Invictus Obi, who was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for fraud in the United States, is no longer listed as being in U.S. custody as of December 23, 2025.
Checks on the website of the United States Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) show that Okeke’s status reads: “Not in BOP Custody as of: 12/23/2025.” This development has sparked speculation that the convicted fraudster may have been released from prison.
Okeke was sentenced in February 2021 to a 10-year jail term after pleading guilty to charges related to an $11 million internet fraud scheme. Based on the original sentence, he was expected to remain in custody until September 3, 2028.
However, the circumstances surrounding his apparent release could not be independently confirmed. It remains unclear whether Okeke was granted a sentence reduction, placed on supervised release, or benefited from another form of legal reprieve. Given that he was convicted of federal offences, the likelihood of a transfer to a state prison is considered remote.
The Nigerian entrepreneur was arrested in 2019 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at Dulles International Airport while attempting to leave the United States. He was charged in connection with a sophisticated business email compromise scheme targeting Unatrac Holding Limited, the export sales office for Caterpillar heavy industrial and farm equipment.
According to investigators, the fraud scheme began in April 2018 when a Unatrac executive fell victim to a phishing email that allowed conspirators to obtain login credentials. The fraudsters then sent fraudulent wire transfer requests, supported by fake invoices, resulting in losses estimated at over $11 million.
Before his arrest and conviction, Okeke enjoyed widespread recognition as a tech entrepreneur and was once listed by Forbes magazine among the 100 Most Influential Young Africans. That reputation, however, collapsed following his prosecution and sentencing in the United States.
The post Invictus Obi not in US custody as of December 23 appeared first on Vanguard News.
A group, Movement for the Survival and Integrity of the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), has hailed the minister of Defence General Christopher Gwabin Musa on his 58th birthday.
MOSIEND praised the former chief of defence staff (CDS) for his professionalism, courage, strategic brilliance, and unwavering patriotism.
A press release signed by Ambassador Kennedy Tonjo West, president of MOSIEND, said, “As a former chief of defence staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces, he distinguished himself through decisive leadership, effective inter-agency coordination, and a results-driven approach to complex security challenges.
“His tenure was marked by renewed operational synergy within the Armed Forces, improved morale, and a clear demonstration of bravery and resilience in theatres where the defence of Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty demanded uncommon sacrifice.
“His appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as Minister of Defence was neither incidental nor political—it was a deliberate choice anchored on proven expertise, deep institutional knowledge, and an enviable track record of results.
“General Musa is a bridge builder, a trailblazer, and a pan-Nigerian leader whose loyalty is to the flag and whose mission is the protection of every Nigerian, irrespective of region, faith, or background.
“MOSIEND expresses firm confidence that under his stewardship as Minister of Defence, Nigeria will steadily advance towards a future where citizens can sleep with both eyes closed, assured of a coordinated, professional, and responsive security architecture.
“His experience, strategic foresight, and calm command presence inspire hope that the nation’s security challenges will continue to be confronted with clarity, courage, and competence.
“Beyond the uniform, General Musa is a loving husband, devoted father, mentor, teacher, and philanthropist whose humility and humanity complement his strength and resolve. He has consistently shown the rare willingness to go any mile, tread any path, and bear any burden necessary for the preservation of Nigeria’s unity and collective destiny.
“As he celebrates this milestone, we pray for continued good health, renewed strength, divine wisdom, and even greater accomplishments in the years ahead. May his service continue to yield peace, stability, and lasting security for our beloved country.”
NIGERIA NEWS
BREAKING: US has successfully carried out military strikes in Nigeria – Trump announces
President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, has announced US military strikes in Nigeria.
Trump, who made the announcement on Christmas day, said that was the beginning of more of such attacks.
He said the powerful and deadly air strikes on terrorists hideouts located in Sokoto, a north western state in Nigeria, was against ISIS-affiliated terrorists.
Recall that sometime in November 2025, Trump cried out over the killing of Christians in the north west and north central regions of Nigeria.
The US leader warned that his administration would not allow this to continue, vowing to strike the terrorists at their hideout.
After several deliberations with Nigerian authorities following the threat, both side announced that agreements have been reached on the way forward.
Suddenly, the US government announced that it struck terrorists in Sokoto forest on Thursday night.
“In my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria,” Trump wrote on his Trust Social.
Trump said there will no place for radical Islamic terrorism under his leadership.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is intensifying efforts to fast-track the acquisition of 24x M-346 fighter ground attack aircraft, 10x AW109 Trekker helicopters, and additional UAVs to strengthen its operational readiness.
The chief of air staff, Sunday Aneke, disclosed this at a Christmas luncheon of the air component Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 in Kaduna on Thursday.
Mt Aneke said, “Beyond the defence of our airspace, which lies at the heart of the NAF’s mandate, you are safeguarding the foundations of our society and securing the future of our nation.
“Your resilience, sacrifice, and bravery in the line of duty have made it possible for millions of Nigerians to enjoy this season in peace and tranquillity. As you are all aware, Christmas is a season of togetherness, sharing, and compassion.”
He explained that while many were marking the period in the comfort of their homes with loved ones.
“Some of you remain here in the theatre of operations, standing firm as the true guardians of our nation’s peace and security,” stated Mr Aneke. “For this, the entire nation is deeply grateful. From the highest levels of leadership to ordinary citizens in towns and villages across our country.”
Mr Aneke added that Nigerians recognised and appreciated the sacrifices they continue to make, especially at this special time of the year.
He said, “At this juncture, I wish to solemnly honour the memory of our gallant heroes who paid the supreme price in the service of our fatherland. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their courage will forever remain etched in the collective conscience of our nation. We hold them dear in our hearts as true heroes. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace.”
According to him, his command philosophy is to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to realise national security objectives.
He added, “We recognise that kinetic action alone is not enough. In this regard, Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda provides a viable framework for addressing the root causes of insurgency and terrorism.”
Mr Aneke said that by focusing on social justice, economic empowerment, and equitable development, the agenda complements their non-kinetic efforts and lays a foundation for lasting peace and security across the nation.
(NAN)
Related
Representatives of Nnewi Union in Atlanta distributing rice, cash to less privileged persons at the 4 quarters of Nnewi
From Isaac Ojo
Nnewi Union in Atlanta, Georgia, USA has again made Christmas merrier for the less privileged persons at home.
The group in her 2025 Christmas empowerment program sent rice and cash to selected less privileged persons in the four quarters of Nnewi in Nnewi North LGA of Anambra.
At Nnewichi-Nnewi, the distribution of palliative incentives from the group took place at the secured and serene compound of Late Chief Sydney Okeke(Aghariaku).
Speaking during the exercise, Mrs Grace Okeke who anchored the distribution at the zone said that the initiative is not politically motivated.
She noted that Nnewi Union in Atlanta Georgia USA as part of her annual empowerment program has always been offsetting bills of patients who are not financially capable to do so.
Mrs Okeke however said that the hospital visitation was deliberately removed from the package in the 2025 program because certain staffs of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi are on an industrial action.
The anchor person for Nnewi Union said as a result of the industrial action at the hospital, Nnewi Union increased the bags of rice palliative from seventy five per each quarter to one hundred bags.
The joy of the beneficiaries rose to the crescendo as members of Nnewi Union in Atlanta, Dr Comfort Nonyelum Obiazor, Engr. Vincent Obiazor and Chief Isaac Emefo arrived the Nnewichi-Nnewi venue.
They burst into singing and danced to welcome their benefactors even as prayers were made for the group for not forgetting the poor folks at home.
At the Chapel of the Holy Spirit, Okongwu Memorial Grammar School(OMGS) venue for Umudim-Nnewi distribution center, Mrs Egbuonu Chioma Theresa supported by Ven. George C. Uchendu endured an hitch free process under the watchful eyes of Mrs Okeke.
Ven Uchendu led the beneficiaries in prayers and appreciation for Nnewi Union in Atlanta for their massive support for the less privileged persons at home.
Sharing of palliative for Otolo-Nnewi zone took place at St. Cletus Catholic Church while Uruagu-Nnewi’s distribution also went on smoothly at St Berth Anglican Church.
A bride has sparked online reactions after defending her decision to stay with her abusive partner, insisting she can change him.
Bride says she can change abusive partner
The story emerged from a viral video showing the bride’s friend teasingly calling her partner a “mechanic,” a reference to his tendency to hit, while she maintains he is worth it.
In a candid and controversial post, the bride declared that despite the abuse, she believes in her ability to reform him.
The video shows her friends leaving only her standing when the question was asked and reacting with a mix of amusement and concern.
The footage quickly gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians questioning her logic and offering humorous commentary, while others expressed serious concerns about her safety.
Many pointed out the dangerous precedent of staying in a relationship with an abusive partner under the guise of “change.”
Despite the criticism, the bride’s confidence in her ability to “fix” him continued to draw attention, sparking debates about love, tolerance, and self-worth in relationships across online communities.
Social media reactions
@Swarovskilinbey commented: “She no get choice, the Werey is about to reach menopause for her father’s house already”
@favourlee001 commented: “She day form mechanic for panel beater”
@pridecrib commented: “Boox, she don marry him already for her head”
@wazobiadcreator commented: “She say na mechanic”
@TLG commented: “She will learn”
@kultureviral commented: “Man changer. W’s in the chat”
@preacher244 commented: “Mechanic”
@Innocent1961945 commented: “She no believe her”
Watch the video below…
Chai! And na the bride ooo. She said she will change him 😭 pic.twitter.com/LuuPC2UTFb
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 25, 2025
The Federal Government has reacted to recent United States military airstrikes targeting terrorist groups operating in Nigeria’s North West region.
The government confirmed that Nigeria remains actively engaged with international partners to tackle terrorism and violent extremism across the country.
In an official response issued on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the airstrikes were part of an ongoing security collaboration between Nigeria and its allies, including the United States.
According to the government, the action followed sustained intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at degrading terrorist networks threatening national and regional stability.
The Ministry explained that the cooperation aligns with existing bilateral agreements and international standards. It stressed that such engagements are carried out with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and in line with international law.
The government noted that intelligence-driven operations have contributed to targeted actions against terrorist enclaves in the North West.
In the statement, the Ministry said, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.”
It added that, “In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.”
The Federal Government also emphasized that the safety of civilians remains a top priority in all counter-terrorism operations. It said every action taken against terrorist groups is guided by the need to protect innocent lives, preserve national unity, and uphold the rights of all Nigerians.
The Ministry further stated, “Nigeria reiterates that all counter terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity.”
Addressing concerns over religious targeting, the government condemned all forms of extremist violence, regardless of who is affected. It described attacks on any community as unacceptable and contrary to Nigeria’s values and global peace efforts.
According to the Ministry, “Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.”
The statement also revealed that Nigeria is deepening cooperation with its partners to weaken terrorist cells, disrupt funding channels, and prevent cross-border movements of armed groups. It added that efforts are ongoing to strengthen local intelligence capacity and national security operations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured Nigerians that it would continue to engage relevant international partners and provide updates through official channels as necessary.
This development comes amid reports that the United States plans to provide additional security support to northern Nigeria, including enhanced surveillance and counter-terrorism assistance, following the recent military action.
The airstrikes reportedly followed an order by U.S. President Donald Trump on Christmas night, directing American forces to target ISIS elements operating in North West Nigeria over allegations of deadly attacks against Christian communities.
General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, has again restated that the Deeper Life Bible Church will not join in the celebration of Christmas.
The cleric insisted that the practice has roots the church considers unbiblical.
“Since this ministry started, we have never said we are going to a Christmas retreat. Never. We don’t celebrate Christmas. It actually comes from an idolatrous background,” he said.
Christmas Has Idolatrous Origin, Kumuyi Says
Speaking to the congregation in a widely circulated video, Kumuyi maintained that the church has never recognised Christmas since its establishment.
He explained that the festival is tied to idolatrous traditions, which makes it unacceptable to the ministry.
He stressed that Deeper Life has never organised any Christmas retreat or Christmas-themed programme.
December Retreat, Not Christmas Celebration
Kumuyi clarified that what people often assume to be a Christmas activity in Deeper Life is actually a December retreat, strictly focused on prayer, spiritual renewal, and reconnecting with God.
In his words; “We always call it a December retreat, a time for those gathering together because of the holiday period to reconnect ourselves to the Lord, to give everything we have, and to love more.”
Warning Against Importing Christmas Customs
The holiness preacher also cautioned against attempts to introduce Christmas traditions into the church, describing such efforts as attempts to bring practices he believes are contrary to biblical worship.
He added; “When you find any section of the church where anyone wants to introduce the idolatry of mystery Babylon that is called Christmas… we do not allow it.”
He urged worshippers to remain steadfast and uphold the church’s long-standing doctrine on the matter.
Focus on Spirituality, Not Secular Festivities
Pastor Kumuyi further emphasised that the church prioritises spiritual devotion, prayer, and love above merrymaking, partying, drinking, and other activities commonly associated with Christmas celebrations.
He encouraged members to stay focused on God rather than worldly festivities.
Church Continues Annual Spiritual Retreats
Despite global Christmas celebrations, Deeper Life Church continues to hold its annual December retreats across Nigeria and internationally, maintaining its stance on spiritual growth over traditional holiday celebrations.
.@POTUS “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and… pic.twitter.com/ct7rUW128t
— Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) December 26, 2025
SOURCE PAGE
NIGERIA NEWS
Nigeria Confirms US Security Cooperation After Airstrikes on Terrorist Targets in North-West
The Federal Government has confirmed ongoing security and intelligence cooperation with the United States following recent airstrikes on terrorist positions in Nigeria’s North-West region.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured collaboration with international partners, including the United States of America, to tackle terrorism and violent extremism.
Naija News recalls that the United States had carried out multiple air strikes on Islamic State (ISIS) militants in north-west Nigeria. President Donald Trump announced the development on Thursday, saying the operation targeted fighters accused of killing mainly Christians in the region.
Intelligence sharing behind precision strikes
The ministry said the partnership has contributed to “precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.”
It stated, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.”
According to the statement, the cooperation follows established international practice and bilateral understandings, and includes intelligence exchange, strategic coordination and other forms of support.
The government stressed that the collaboration is conducted “consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.”
It added that the protection of civilian lives guides Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, the safeguarding of national unity and the upholding of the rights and dignity of all citizens.
The ministry noted that terrorist violence, regardless of the target, remains unacceptable.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” the statement read.
It added that “terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.”
The Federal Government said it would continue working with partners through diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats.
The ministry also assured that Nigeria is strengthening its own security institutions and intelligence capabilities, adding that it would keep the public informed through official channels.
NIGERIA NEWS
FG Confirms US Strikes on Terrorist Targets in Nigeria, Attributes Action to Structured Security Cooperation – THISDAYLIVE
….More strikes to come, Hegseth U.S Secretary of War warns
By Chiemelie Ezeobi
The Federal Government has confirmed that coordinated security cooperation with international partners, including the United States, has resulted in precision air strikes on terrorist targets in the North West of Nigeria.
The operations are part of ongoing efforts to tackle persistent terrorism and violent extremism across the country.
In a statement confirming the earlier tweet by U.S president, Donald Trump, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said: “Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.
“This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.”
The Ministry emphasised that the collaboration includes intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other forms of support conducted in line with international law, mutual respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty, and commitments to regional and global security.
“Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the statement said, highlighting the government’s zero tolerance for attacks on civilians.
All counter-terrorism operations, the Ministry added, prioritise civilian protection, national unity, and the rights and dignity of all citizens.
It also noted that “the Federal Government continues to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while strengthening Nigeria’s own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.”
Meanwhile, U.S Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, who commented on the air strikes and the timing of the operation said more strikes are to come.
He tweeted, “The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end. The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas. More to come… Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation. Merry Christmas!”
NIGERIA NEWS
Nigeria confirms US strikes, says ‘partnership targets ISWAP terrorist sites in North West
By Favour Ulebor, Abuja
The Federal Government on Friday confirmed that Nigeria remains engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States, to address terrorism and violent extremism, following air strikes on terrorist targets in the North West.
In a press release issued Friday morning by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the action resulted from ongoing intelligence collaboration and strategic coordination with partners.
According to the Ministry, the cooperation has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.
It explained that the collaboration follows international practice and bilateral understandings, including intelligence sharing and strategic coordination, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and international law.
It reads in part, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.
“In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security,” the Ministry stated.
The government stressed that protecting civilians remains central to all counter terrorism efforts.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” the statement said.
It added that terrorist violence against any group remains unacceptable.
“Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry further noted that Nigeria continues to work with partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their funding and logistics, and prevent cross border threats, while strengthening national security and intelligence capacity.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through official channels.
The confirmation comes as the United States says it will be sending additional support to northern states to bolster surveillance, security operations and counter-terror efforts after the recent military action.
Following that, President Donald Trump on Christmas night ordered United States airstrikes against ISIS militants operating in North West Nigeria, accusing the group of carrying out deadly attacks against Christians.
The post Nigeria confirms US strikes, says ‘partnership targets ISWAP terrorist sites in North West appeared first on Vanguard News.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has announced the suspension of its National President, Pretty Okafor, with immediate effect.
The decision followed an emergency NEC meeting held on Wednesday, December 25, 2025, convened to address what the council described as serious governance and constitutional issues within the association. Acting in line with provisions of the PMAN Constitution, the NEC said the suspension will remain in force pending the conclusion of a full investigation and disciplinary process.
According to the council, the action was taken over alleged repeated violations of constitutional provisions, abuse of office, disregard for due process, and conduct deemed harmful to the welfare, credibility, and integrity of the association.
Key allegations highlighted by the NEC include the unilateral appointment of vice presidents without council approval, the unlawful removal of the elected National Treasurer following demands for financial audits, persistent failure of the National Working Committee to carry out core mandates, intolerance for dissenting opinions, and reported irregularities linked to a joint venture involving PMAN property in Abuja.
As part of its resolutions, the NEC announced the nullification of all unilateral appointments made by the suspended president, reinstatement of the National Treasurer, and the commencement of a forensic audit of PMAN’s financial accounts and joint venture agreements.
In line with constitutional provisions, the council also approved the appointment of Sydney Sparrow, PMAN Governor for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as Acting National President.
The NEC stressed that the suspension is corrective rather than punitive, assuring PMAN members nationwide of the council’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of the interests of Nigerian musicians.
The statement was signed by the PMAN National Treasurer, Baba Ojonugwa.
The Accord Party (AP) has asked Nigerians to embrace hope, unity and responsible leadership as the country marks the 2025 Christmas celebration.
It urged leaders to prioritise the welfare and security of the citizens amid persistent challenges.
In a Christmas message, the party’s national chairman, Barr Maxwell Mgbudem, said the season, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ, offers an opportunity for national renewal anchored on peace, compassion and collective resolve.
Mgbudem urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and its democratic institutions, describing Nigeria as a nation of “immense promise, resilience, and talent” despite ongoing difficulties.
He stressed that democracy belongs to the people and must be strengthened through unity, civic participation and respect for the rule of law.
The party called for national unity across ethnic, religious and political divides, noting that unity is essential for progress and sustainable development.
“Only together can we overcome division and build a peaceful and prosperous nation,” the statement said.
Accord also appealed to leaders at all levels of government to pursue peace, justice and people-oriented policies, emphasising that leadership must place the welfare, dignity and security of citizens above all other considerations.
Addressing the country’s security challenges, the party expressed concern over persistent insecurity affecting families nationwide and called for renewed commitment to protecting lives and property. It urged inclusive governance, expanded economic opportunities and social justice as pathways to addressing the root causes of violence and strengthening national cohesion.
According to the statement, the welfare of the people must remain the top priority, noting that a nation can only thrive when citizens feel safe, heard and supported.
Accord, however, expressed hope that Christmas would inspire compassion among citizens and wisdom in leadership, while calling for peace, unity and collective progress in the New Year.
“May peace reign in our land. May unity guide our steps. May Nigeria move forward together,” the party said, wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with renewed hope.