No fewer than 300 members of the Youths of St. Mulumba (YSM) from six sub-councils in Lagos Metropolitan Council, Region 3, converged on Navy Town, Lagos, for the YSM Mega Rally 2025, a programme focused on faith formation, fellowship, and youth empowerment.

The rally attracted participants from Lagos Island, Badagry, Satellite, FESTAC Twn, Ojo, and Amuwo Odofin, and featured a Mass, leadership talks, and interactive sessions aimed at strengthening the spiritual and social development of young Catholics.

The Associate Parish Priest of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Navy Town, Rev. Fr. Philip Stanley Apata, said the event reflected the Knights of St. Mulumba’s long tradition of service, particularly to young people and the less-privileged.

He noted that beyond spiritual activities, the Order supported charitable causes such as assisting the needy and settling hospital bills.

He added that the rally, held during the Christmas season, was an opportunity to share joy and blessings with the wider community’

Metro Grand Knight of Lagos Metropolitan Council, Sir Nosa Ehigiator, explained that the Mega Rally was designed to unite YSM members across different sub-councils and encourage interaction beyond their immediate locations.

“This programme was conceived over four years ago. Our goal is to develop and empower the youths spiritually and socially, and to help them build lasting connections across the region,” he said.

Deputy Supreme Knight, Sir Dan Egwu, who oversees the initiative at the national level, said the programme addressed the gap in youth engagement within the Catholic Church after confirmation.

According to him, the rally helped young people to understand church values, build strong character, and discover their potential to contribute meaningfully to their communities. He urged participants to remain focused on Christ and resist negative societal influences.

Representing the Deputy Metro Grand Knight and YSM coordinator, Sir. Dr. Patrick Adebayo Falola described YSM as an integral arm of the Knights of St. Mulumba, catering to Catholic youths aged 12 to 30.

He disclosed that the Region 3 rally was the first of its kind and expressed hope that it would become an annual event.

Participants praised the program for its impact. Ukaegbu Emmanuel from the Satellite Sub-Council said the leadership session was inspiring and helped him understand the responsibilities of young Catholic leaders.

In her remarks, Vice President of the Badagry Sub-Council, Dennis Emmanuella, said the rally met her expectations and was both impactful and well organized.

In his closing remarks, the Coordinating Deputy Grand Knight of Region 3 and chairman of the organizing committee Vincent Iwueze, thanked participants and organizers, describing the rally as a demonstration of unity among the six sub-councils and a platform for nurturing faith, leadership, and service among the youths, he concluded.

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The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to work towards a more peaceful and equitable country in 2026, declaring that banditry would be defeated in the new year and beyond.

He also enjoined Nigerians to set aside their differences, embrace peace and foster unity among their families, States and Nigeria as a whole. He said the nation can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.

He made this call during a prayer and fasting service organised in honour of the Akpabio family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, Ukana Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area.

A statement on Friday by the Special Assistant to the President of the Senate on Media/ Communication, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio as saying, “I want to wish all Nigerians a very prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to assure all Nigerians that the new year will usher in renewed peace in our country.”

“For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son to be born as a man so as to redeem mankind. By the reason of the birth of Jesus Christ, Nigerians will be redeemed from banditry and insurgency in the new year and beyond,” Akpabio stated.

He enjoined Nigerians, irrespective of political leanings, to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu in the fight against banditry and insurgency, declaring that with the renewed collaboration with international partners, insurgency will be defeated.

Akpabio highlighted the critical role of family in promoting peace and progress, emphasising that unity is the foundation of collective success.

In her remarks, Wife of the Senate President, Her Excellency Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, encouraged family members to support one another selflessly, setting aside personal biases and living together in love.

Family head of the Greater Akpabio Family, Chief Ekan Akpabio, urged family members to keep supporting Senator Akpabio as a great Ambassador of the Family, Essien Udim LGA and Akwa Ibom as a whole.

He appealed to family members holding political positions to remain connected to their roots and prioritise the welfare of their relatives.

The annual Prayer and Fasting Service, held every December 26, is a time for the Akpabio family to express gratitude and offer thanksgiving to God for His sustenance throughout the year, while they also pray for the peace and unity of Nigeria.5

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The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has called on Nigerians, particularly Christians, to embrace unity, compassion and hope as the country grapples with insecurity, economic hardship and social divisions.

In a Christmas message titled “Nigeria’s hope in challenging times: A Christmas reflection,” Gabam urged Christians to reflect on values that promote national cohesion and inspire collective action towards a better future.

He described the season as an opportunity for Nigerians to become “beacons of hope and unity,” stressing that the country’s challenges can only be overcome through togetherness and shared responsibility.

Gabam called on Christians to act as agents of peace by promoting love, compassion and understanding within their communities.

He encouraged acts of kindness such as reaching out to those in need, feeding the hungry, comforting the brokenhearted and showing empathy to strangers, noting that such gestures would help build a stronger and more compassionate nation where dignity and respect are upheld.

Drawing from Christian teachings, the SDP chairman emphasised the need to love one’s neighbour, urging Nigerians to rise above tribal and religious differences.

According to him, the country must work towards a society where citizens can live without fear, while striving for unity, justice and equality, and fostering a culture of empathy and kindness.

On the economy, Gabam acknowledged the severity of the current economic struggles but maintained that collective effort could bring change.

He called for support for initiatives that promote transparency, accountability and inclusive growth, insisting that Nigerians must demand justice and fairness and work towards an economy that serves the people rather than a privileged few.

He also urged Christians to pray fervently for the nation, its leaders and peace in communities across the country. Gabam stressed the importance of responsible stewardship of resources, ensuring equitable access to basic necessities, and prioritising the welfare of citizens so that all Nigerians can thrive.

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The founder and convener of the BAT (Bola Ahmed Tinubu) Ideological Group, Bamidele Atoyebi, is a political figure who leads a group of technocrats and supporters dedicated to promoting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and governance principles through grassroots engagement, public awareness, and policy advocacy. Atoyebi believes that Nigeria’s democratic renewal must begin at the grassroots, and that no reform will truly work unless local governments are empowered to function independently. In this wide-ranging conversation, he argues that years of centralised control have weakened communities, stalled development, and fostered a culture of dependency. At the same time, Atoyebi makes a strong case for continuity at the federal level. Reflecting on major policy shifts under Tinubu — from fiscal and monetary reforms to infrastructure ambitions and social intervention programmes — he argues that Nigeria is undergoing a difficult but necessary transition.  For Atoyebi, the turbulence of reform is not proof of failure, but evidence of a system being reset.  Ahamefule  Ogbu brings the excerpts:

Tell us about the BAT Ideological Group. What informed its establishment, what is its objective, and its vision?

I was born in Lagos, specifically in Badia Ijora. At the age of three, I was taken to my mother’s village in Kwara State. At the age of 12, I developed an interest in politics. Then, it was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that was the dominant party. But I was attracted to the Alliance for Democracy (AD), which was the party that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu also belonged to. I got to know about the party when Alhaji Lai Mohammed came to campaign for the Governor of Kwara then. I was attracted to Bola Tinubu’s style of politics because when the PDP swept all the states, he was the only one standing as the Governor of Lagos. So, I went to school and came back to Lagos and developed a personal interest in the man Bola Tinubu. I wanted to know what made him unique and distinct.  My parents gave birth to me the night before Chief Obafemi Awolowo died and I was told that a certain Igbo man who was their neighbor said I was Awolowo reincarnate. When Awolowo died, people started crying that we lost a great leader. But today, we have someone who possesses all the leadership attributes of Chief Awolowo, in the person of Bola Tinubu. And I’ve been following him. So, I was looking at what I can do to promote everything about Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Look at what he did in Lagos and how he developed the State. Someone courageous enough to stop the sea at Eko Atlantic and turn it into what you have there today. Look at what he is doing about local government autonomy. I feel that without bringing governance closer to the people, the real people at the grassroots level will not feel it. Look at those who succeeded him and a whole lot that he did in Lagos. So, I felt there was a need to institutionalise Asiwaju Bola Tinubu because  I have been seeing him as an institution. So, I built a library in his name at the University of Ilorin, where people could go and read about him. So, it was that library initiative that transformed into this movement, which is called the BAT Ideological Group. We have even gone further and working towards turning that library to a proper research and educational centre on Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, where people can even come and study and are awarded postgraduate degrees.

So, what do you intend to achieve with this BAT Ideological Group?

As I said earlier, the objective is to build men and women who would become living carriers of the Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s political spirit, his ideas, and philosophy. When you see him, you can see that he’s the only one who has raised men and women in politics. You know that, naturally, politicians are greedy. But for you not to be a Governor, but you are pushing people to contest for Governor; you are not a minister, but you are putting people for ministerial appointment; you are not a vice president, you can install a vice president; you are not a president, you have put someone to become a president. So, as he has raised men, we also want to raise men and women who would be his disciples, so that when he dies, we’ll have men and women across the state that will continue to propagate his ideologies. While he is alive, let us raise men and women who can carry his vision, who understand his ideology, and who will become a carrier of it.

As preparations for 2027 begin quietly, what convinces you that President Tinubu deserves a second term?

There are so many reasons. Firstly, everybody knows that fuel subsidy was a major drain on the economy and Nigeria cannot grow with that kind of arrangement. It’s just like a dirty house. You came in, you put the dirt on one side; another person came in, you put the dirt on the other side. There was a need to totally clean up the room. That was President Tinubu removed the subsidy. Secondly, he unified the multiple exchange rates that we had in the system. Do you know how many people are in prison because of the variance of forex rates that we had, in the past? I know someone who is presently indebted to the tune of N60 billion because of the instability in the forex market, as well as the differences in rates. Even I was affected. But President Tinubu changed all that and saved a lot of young men by unifying the forex rates and eliminating the special rates for some preferred persons, and eliminated rents. I wrote in an article that President Tinubu was the first to truly take from the rich and give to the poor. How did he do that? This fuel subsidy, he used it to estabflish the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and several other intervention initiatives. Do you know that more than N150 billion has been disbursed to thousands of students? That is what we call truly giving to the poor. On the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, he encouraged poor Nigerians to go and learn skills that they don’t have, and the government pays them stipends of N45,000. I know children of the rich would not apply for those kinds of things. These are the best ways to give to the actual poor people in society. In the health sector, we have subsidised dialysis treatment for patients at the federal health institutions. We also have a health fellowship programme, where they pick people randomly from different local governments to come and become support staff for healthcare workers. They learn, and they also employ them. There are a lot of other initiatives by President Tinubu, and I believe that he has done so much that he deserves re-election in 2027. The poor people who are the major people that vote on election days, should know that Asiwaju means well for them and for the country. So, he deserves to be re-elected in 2027. Look at the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Highway. These are the things that Asiwaju is doing that would earn the support of the real voters in 2027. Look at our revenue, it is improving, and the economy has rebounded. We don’t struggle to fund infrastructure anymore. Are we going to bring someone else in 2027 when we are seeing all the good things he has started? No! That is why we must re-elect him to continue. Why won’t you allow somebody who has started the good work to continue, instead of bringing a new person who you don’t even know what he’s bringing to the table?

Assuming you are accused that you are just using all these groups to find favour with the president, what would be your reaction?

The truth is, naturally, I’m very big on value. So if you accuse me of using it to find favor, I will tell you I have never even met the president before I started doing all these. Even in my own little capacity, I had four NGOs already. There is one that sees to the people at the prison; another caters to the needs of the widows; seeing to the needs of female healthcare workers and another that develops emerging young leaders — we make Nigerian youth know that they don’t need to stay frustrated on social media platforms all day or even japa. We try to train them to improve on their skills. So, I have all these organisations and initiatives. I am naturally big on value. So, I am not looking for favour from anybody. I do this with my hard-earned money. I thank God for all our State coordinators, a lot of whom are spending their money to make this a success. In a recent article I wrote, I asked the questions: Are you a true BATist or a political opportunist? A lot of the people around the President today are political opportunists. They don’t know how to contribute to society or how to raise men. They don’t even know the spirit, the vision, and the idea of the man they are working for. So, I am just using this platform to add value to society and humanity.

Are you not afraid of the opposition that is coming from the north, can your group and state coordinators weather the storm and opposition from the north?

The truth of the matter is that when we started this movement, before we even had state coordinators in the south, the northerners, that is the real masses, they embraced it and they have taken over this movement and they are spending a lot of money to make this movement succeed. Majority of them were neglected in the previous support groups they belonged to. They believe so much in this ideology such that they now see it as their personal responsibility. So every day the group is booming in the north. This is a moving train. Nobody can stop it. All the opposition they are doing, they will all crumble. So they have nothing to offer. They don’t know how to raise men. They don’t know how to add value to people. The real people in the north love Asiwaju and they carry this movement on their head like their lives depend on it. So, we are not worried. The north is 100% secure for Asiwaju.

Critics argue that Nigerians have yet to fully feel the benefits of current reforms. How do you respond to concerns about economic hardship under Tinubu’s leadership?

Despite the challenges, Asiwaju is going to restore Nigeria’s hope. Inflation that was about 34 per cent has fallen to below 15 per cent in line with the President’s target. He also set a target of crude oil production, which he has also achieved. Today, the country enjoys exchange rate stability and the naira exchange rate is about N1,450 to a dollar. Can’t you see that you have a man who has foresight and vision and who is delivering with his foresight? He has all the plans mapped out. He’s not a regular politician. So you can see. In Nigeria, things don’t usually go this way. When things go up, they do not come down. You can see how things are coming down, especially food prices. Look at the price of a bag of rice, I bought close to N100,000 for 50kg last year, but today, it is less than N80,000.  Asiwaju is also resetting our brains, and gone are those days when prices go up, and they will not come down. You can see prices are coming down. Fuel prices, for instance, every December, year in, year out, you see queues, but under President Tinubu, that is not the case. I’ve said that this man is a prophet. This man was sent for a purpose, and you can see what he is achieving. See, some people are naturally blessed.  Now, let me talk about the local government autonomy. I issued a press statement a few days ago in which I stated that the President’s Executive Order threat is good for the country because the Governors, the majority of them don’t mean well for the country. Upon all the money they are getting — the allocation has tripled — do they still need to continue dipping hands into local governments’ funds? No. Without local government autonomy — full financial autonomy — there won’t be any progress. Let us be saying the truth. How will they be able to do their local roads? How will they be able to open access roads to farmers? How will they be able to do boreholes? How will they be able to handle insecurity, provide electricity, or bring some transformers where people need transformers? How will they be able to do all those things? But when they have financial autonomy — money — they will be able to do these things. Look at Lagos, the State is different. Since Asiwaju created local governments in Lagos and even created LCDAs, they don’t touch local government money in Lagos. That’s why you see local government elections in Lagos is like a real battle, because they have money to spend. You can see them doing things some State Governors can’t even do in other States. Do you know a lot of local governments in other States don’t even have procurement departments? So, we must let the financial autonomy for local governments work. So, these are the things Asiwaju has come to address and everything you see him doing today is in his manifesto. Withdrawal of police VIPs and farmers’ cooperative are all in his manifesto. Yes, we still know that there is still hardship, but we are making progress, and we would get to the promised land with Asiwaju.

With the way the BAT Idealogical Group is spreading, overshadowing groups that were there before, are you not afraid that you could get harmed?

I fear no evil. I believe that if I am doing what is right and people are accepting it, I don’t need to be scared. I know my conscience, and it is very clear. This might even be my own contribution to my society or even my assignment from God. So, even if my enemy gets killed, at least I have done something impactful to society. I have the belief that Nigerian youth should join politics. But don’t join them if you don’t have a bigger strategy to make an impact, which is what we are offering. Asiwaju is a man of superior ideas and if you have superior ideas, he wants you close to him. So, I am not scared. They’ve tried to attack me physically in several ways, but they have not succeeded. They’ve stolen our ideas severally, but original will always be original. Many of the other groups came out after they had seen what we were doing. They just want to take glory for what they don’t understand, the vision and the idea. I can’t start mentioning names, but I know more than six different groups have come out just to copy and paste our idea and intentions. But we are not worried, as long as they are doing it to also benefit society.

Will you be disappointed if, after all your efforts the man doesn’t invite you to appreciate you for what you are doing?

I’m a man of the spirit. I tell people that two people, after God, my wife and my immediate family matter to me the most. They are Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Pastor David Oyedepo. Oyedepo is my spiritual mentor, while Asiwaju is my political mentor. And I’ve not sat with any of them. In 2010, I had a dream where Asiwaju told me to go back to school, which motivated me to pursue further education. I know that one day Asiwaju will recognise us. He is not a user of man, who doesn’t recognise their support when he gets to the top and he believes in superior ideas. People might be blocking him from seeing me, but the moment he sees or meets me, he will definitely be attracted to me. Alhaji Lai Mohammed said something recently. According to him, a ruler is a captive, because the people around a lot of leaders don’t have ideas. So, if they see anybody who is bigger than them and is bringing superior ideas, they will try to block such a person. They don’t know that in this life, the sky is too wide for everybody to fly. So, I will never feel disappointed. The journey continues. We will still continue to be doing whatever we are doing.

What is your take on the gale of defections from other parties to the APC? Do you see it as an endorsement of President Tinubu’s governance style or a failure of the opposition parties?

In law, they say facts speak for themselves. That’s what I’m saying, the spirit of Asiwaju is natural. It will move you in its direction. You can see he’s a sophisticated leader. There’s no need to struggle to call you in. When you see what he is doing from afar, you will want to associate with him, you will want to tap from the grace he is carrying. That is what is happening presently. And this is what everybody is doing. Even the people who are not Governors like us — are all jumping into it because the man carries a special grace. His leadership is second to none. It is his leadership style that is attracting people. Somebody who gives you money to fund and run your administration smoothly, wouldn’t you join the moving train? When you know that your predecessors struggled to fund budgets, struggled to do projects, and finance infrastructure, won’t you be attracted to someone willing to support? I said it earlier, this movement is beyond Asiwaju. As he is finishing his tenure, we are going to propagate these ideas beyond Africa. Unlike other past presidents that will be leading election monitoring in Africa, Asiwaju, after his tenure, will be going to other countries to institutionalise his leadership style.

With your conviction, are you sure you are not going to go into propagating, like, a life presidency for this president?

We have a constitution and our democracy is intact. Asiwaju, I believe, has a good succession plan. Look at what he did in Lagos. He knew the person that would take over and continue the agenda. Dele Alake said something recently. He said, he’s looking for somebody who will come and become President after President Tinubu and say he wants to reverse all these good policies. So, he doesn’t need to be President forever.

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The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the defection of six Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members into the party as a welcome development.

The State APC publicity secretary, Yusuf Idris, in a statement issued in Gusau on Friday, further described the lawmakers’ decision as a good omen for the APC

The six serving members of the Zamfara House of Assembly on the platform of the PDP had announced their defection to the APC in separate letters presented to the party’s leadership.

The six defecting lawmakers were members of the parallel state house of assembly who were suspended by the house last year over alleged violation of the Nigerian Constitution and the state assembly’s laws.

The six lawmakers jointly made their decision known while sitting in Gusau, the state capital, after deliberating over the alleged poor management of the legislative arm.

They claimed that it had since compromised its duties by serving as an extension of the Governor’s Office and a rubber stamp to Gov. Dauda Lawal.

The defecting lawmakers included the factional Speaker, Bashar Aliyu, Gummi 1, Nasiru Abdullahi, Maru North and Bashir Abubakar, Bukkuyum North.

Others included Bashir Bello, Bungudu West,  Amiru Ahmad-Keta, Tsafe West)

and Muktar Nasir-Kaura, Kaura North.

They urged the National Assembly to investigate their case and take the right steps towards ensuring that order and the rule of law were fully adhered to in the state legislature.

On their decision to join the opposition APC in the state,  the lawmakers cited justice, fair play, harmony and inclusiveness as the attractions that drew them  to the APC.

According to them, this is to enable them to return to the APC so as to work for the growth and development of the state as well as the welfare of their constituents.

Idris said, “The state APC leadership wishes to formally congratulate every one of us for joining the progressives in the country, that is the APC.

“May the decision be the beginning of success and development of our dear state and Nigeria at large.

“The party considers the lawmakers’ decision as a wise one that will promote the political stability of our dear nation into a more prosperous one.

“The lawmakers’ collective decision to dump the PDP and join the APC marks a new political era in Zamfara,  where members of the ruling party defect to the opposition, which has changed the tradition.”

Attempts by a NAN correspondent to speak with the leadership of the State House of Assembly and the state chapter of the PDP proved abortive. (NAN)

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Sokoto State Government on Friday welcomed the Nigeria-US joint airstrike that targeted terrorists in Tangaza Local Government Area of the state.
This is contained in a statement signed by Director General, Media and Publicity to the Sokoto State Government, Malam Abubakar Bawa, issued to the newsmen on Friday in Sokoto.
Bawa confirmed that there was an airstrike carried out by the Nigerian Military and United States Government in Tangaza LGA without recording any civilian casualties.

According to Bawa, the impact could not be immediately determined as they await the assessment of the joint operations.
Bawa stated that the circumstances of the objects found in a location near Jabo Town, Tambuwal Local Government Area could not also be immediately explained as the outcome of the analysis by Nigeria/US Military Authorities was being awaited.
He stressed that there was no any civilian casualty recorded in Jabo town.

Bawa said, “Sokoto State Government welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria, and all the relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state.

“The ongoing operations are geared towards securing the State and ensuring the protection of lives and property of the citizenry.”
The director-general stated that over the past two years, Sokoto State Government had consistently supported the security agencies in the fight against banditry and terrorism by providing all the necessary equipment to enhance safety across the state.

” The state government, therefore, calls on the residents of the affected areas to continue to cooperate with both the federal and state governments by providing useful information to the security agencies.

”This will assist them to sustain the ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security, as well as to continue to pray to the Almighty Allah to assist our security agencies to defeat criminals in the state and the country at large, ” Bawa added. (NAN)

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The Federal Government has confirmed that precision airstrikes carried out against foreign Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist elements in Sokoto State were approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement on Friday night, disclosed that the operation was conducted in close coordination with the Government of the United States of America and successfully targeted two major ISIS enclaves located within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

According to him, intelligence reports confirmed that the locations were being used as assembly and staging grounds by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region in collaboration with local affiliates.

The government said the terrorist cells were planning and executing large-scale attacks within Nigerian territory.

He said the precision strikes were executed between 12:12 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, following explicit presidential approval.

According to him, the operation was carried out under established command-and-control structures, with the full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and under the supervision of the Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.

The statement reads: “The Federal Government of Nigeria Nigeria Government, in close coordination with the Government of the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against two major Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves located within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

“Intelligence confirmed that these locations were being used as assembly and staging grounds by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region, in collaboration with local affiliates, to plan and execute large-scale terrorist attacks within Nigerian territory.

“The precision strike operations were executed between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on Friday, 26 December, 2025, following explicit approval by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The operation was carried out under established command and control structures, with the full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and under the supervision of the Honourable Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.

“The strikes were launched from maritime platforms domiciled in the Gulf of Guinea, after extensive intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance.

“A total of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions were deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, successfully neutralising the targeted ISIS elements attempting to penetrate Nigeria from the Sahel corridor.

“During the course of the operation, debris from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel. No civilian casualties were recorded in either location, and relevant authorities promptly secured the affected areas.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and eliminate terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist networks seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and security.

“Nigeria remains fully aligned with its strategic partners and Friends of Nigeria in executing coordinated actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace, border security, and regional stability.

“The Federal Government assures all Nigerians that it remains firmly in control of the national security architecture and is fully committed to the protection of lives and property.

“Citizens are urged to remain calm and vigilant as decisive actions continue against all terrorist groups threatening the nation.“

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The Sokoto State Government has confirmed that missile strikes conducted on Thursday by the US military targeted terrorist strongholds within the Tangaza Local Government Area (LGA).

The government also said no civilian casualties have so far been recorded from the strikes in both Tangaza and neighbouring Tambuwal LGA.

Earlier, the Chairman of Tangaza Local Government told PREMIUM TIMES that the targeted area is a “primary route” for terrorists and is most likely to have led to the death of many of them.

The strike targeted areas believed to be hideouts of terrorists along the Nigeria-Niger border in Sokoto State, the official said.

Abubakar Bawa, the spokesperson for Governor Ahmed Aliyu, in a statement on Friday confirmed the success of the mission, adding that based on preliminary reports, there were no civilian casualties.

While the full impact of the strikes is still being evaluated, Mr Bawa noted that the government is awaiting a formal assessment from the Joint Operations team.

“The circumstances of the objects found in a location near Jabo Town, Tambuwal Local Government Area, could not also be immediately explained as the outcome of analysis by Nigeria/US Military Authorities is being awaited,” Mr Bawa stated.

He further reassured the public that “there were no civilian casualties recorded in Jabo as well.”

Thursday’s missile strikes were carried out by the US in partnership with Nigerian authorities. The Nigerian government said it provided intelligence for the attacks, which were also approved by President Bola Tinubu.

In its statement, the Sokoto State Government expressed its strong support for international defence partnerships to combat the rising tide of insurgency in the North-west, the official said.

“Sokoto State welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria, and all relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the State,” the statement read. “The ongoing operations are geared towards securing the State and ensuring the protection of the lives and property of the citizenry.”

Mr Bawa added that over the past two years, the state administration has prioritised security by providing essential equipment and logistical support to various security agencies fighting banditry.

“The State Government therefore called on residents of affected areas to continue to cooperate with both the Federal and State Governments by providing useful information to security agencies, to sustain ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security, and to continue to pray to Almighty Allah to assist our security agencies to defeat criminals in the State and the country at large,” the statement concluded.

ALSO READ: US airstrike in Sokoto definitely hit terrorists – Council Chair

The security situation in the northwestern part of Sokoto State, particularly in Tangaza and neighbouring Tambuwal, has deteriorated over the years due to the activities of terrorist groups.

Tangaza shares a border with the Republic of Niger. This proximity makes it a strategic “gateway” for cross-border movement. Terrorists use the porous borders to retreat into Niger when pressured by the Nigerian military, or to smuggle arms.

In recent years, Tangaza has seen the emergence of a group known as the Lakurawa. Originally a group of foreign herders from Sahelian countries, they have evolved into a terrorist group that imposes taxes on locals and enforces their own version of justice, often clashing with traditional authorities.

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Former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore has strongly condemned the recent U.S. airstrike targeting suspected ISIS fighters in northwest Nigeria.

According to Sowore, the operation threatens Nigeria’s sovereignty and regional stability.

“Nobody should be rejoicing about this. This is an imperialist move on the part of Trump,” he said.

Direct Military Intervention Unacceptable – Sowore

Sowore emphasized that while international assistance can take many forms, foreign military action within Nigeria’s borders is unacceptable.

“The U.S. could help the Nigerian military, but U.S. forces carrying out attacks inside Nigeria is extremely dangerous, reckless, and bad,” he added.

He described the strike as “a sad day for the so-called African liberation and independence.”

Trump Claims Strike Targeted ISIS Fighters

The development came after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on his Truth Social platform that American forces had launched a military strike against ISIS operatives in northwest Nigeria.

Trump claimed the targeted fighters had killed innocent Christians at unprecedented levels.

“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria,” he said.

Trump warned that his administration had previously cautioned these fighters that any continued attacks on Christians would have consequences.

AFRICOM Confirms Airstrike in Sokoto State

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed the operation on X, stating it occurred “at the request of Nigerian authorities” and resulted in the deaths of “multiple ISIS terrorists.”

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also acknowledged Nigeria’s cooperation, hinting at potential further military actions without providing details.

The strike was reportedly carried out in “Soboto state,” an apparent reference to Sokoto State.

Residents Panic After Explosion in Jabo Village

Residents of Jabo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area, Sokoto State, were thrown into panic on Christmas night after a loud explosion rocked their community.

Eyewitnesses said the explosion, suspected to be linked to the airstrike, caused immediate fear among villagers.

“It happened suddenly in the night. The explosion caused fear, but thank God it did not land among people,” one resident said, confirming the widespread alarm.

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The Nigerian Association of University Students (NAUS) has honoured Pharm. Judith Ngozi Udeh, for her contributions to youth development, mentorship and healthcare delivery, presenting her with an award during her birthday celebration in Lagos.

The award, which drew loud applause from guests, was presented in recognition of Udeh’s consistent support for students, commitment to pharmaceutical excellence and dedication to inspiring young Nigerians.

The event, held at Carabana Lounge, Ajao Estate, Lagos, was attended by top management and staff of Geneith Pharmaceuticals, members of the Lagos State University (LASU) MBA alumni, NAUS representatives, as well as family members, friends and well-wishers.

Presenting the award on behalf of Nigerian university students, NAUS National President, Comrade Josiah Peter Oche, described the honour as “a moment of pride and celebration,” noting that Udeh exemplifies service, integrity and excellence.

He said NAUS, which represents over 20 million Nigerian university students across federal, state, private and diaspora institutions, found her worthy of recognition for her impact in healthcare delivery, pharmaceutical practice and human capacity development.

Represented at the event by the NAUS Senate President, Comrade Israel Oguntade, the association said the award was more than symbolic, urging recipients to deepen their impact on society and remain role models to younger generations.

A citation read: “Pharm. Judith’s journey reflects dedication, integrity and service, values that align with the ideals of NAUS. Her commitment to advancing health and wellness continues to make a meaningful difference in communities.”

NAUS also commended Geneith Pharmaceuticals for its commitment to quality, innovation and ethical pharmaceutical practice, noting that such organisations are critical to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Earlier, goodwill messages were delivered by colleagues, alumni and family members, who praised Udeh’s passion for youth advocacy, mentorship and public health education.

A former President of the Lagos State University MBA Students Association (LASUMBA), Mr. Pascal Olisakwe, described her as focused, determined and results-driven, recalling their time working together in the Association of Women in MBA (AWIMBA).

Reacting, a visibly moved Udeh thanked God and NAUS for what she described as a surprise recognition.

“I came here to celebrate life, but receiving this award from students on my birthday is something I will cherish forever,” she said. “It strengthens my resolve to continue supporting young people through mentorship, advocacy and health education.”

She reaffirmed her commitment to youth empowerment and public health education, stressing that investing in young people is vital to sustainable national development.

The event ended with the presentation of the award plaque, cake-cutting, photographs and a celebratory dance session.

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Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said the Federal Government will operate a single budget from March 2026.

Agbese disclosed this on Friday in an interview with journalists in Abuja, stating that the repeal and re-enactment of both budgets would ensure a coherent and predictable funding structure.

He said the repeal and re-enactment of the budget is intended to align the nation’s budgeting system with global and international best practices.

According to him, it would also ensure transparency and accountability at all levels and lessen the burden of oversight during implementation.

“By adopting a single budget after 31 March 2026, the executive will be able to execute the budget without much hassle. When there is a single funding system, it becomes easier to manage cash flow and ensure timely releases,” he said.

The deputy spokesperson of the Green Chamber also praised President Tinubu for promising budget discipline and economic stability.

Agbese added that the parliament is committed to reforms that would strengthen public finance management, improve service delivery, and restore public confidence in the budgeting process.

DAILY POST reports that the Federal Government has faced significant challenges in executing the 2024 and 2025 budgets, resulting in the operation of multiple appropriations within a single fiscal year.

It is recalled that on Tuesday, the National Assembly, at the request of President Tinubu, repealed and re-enacted the 2024 and 2025 budgets.

It also extended the implementation timeline of the 2025 budget through March 2026 to ensure fiscal alignment and continuity of public expenditure.

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The Federal Government on Friday said the nation’s armed forces are fully involved in the US airstrike at two major Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves located within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State, on December 25.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in a statement on Friday, explained that the Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, supervised the airstrike.

According to him, intelligence confirmed that these locations were being used as assembly and staging grounds by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region, in collaboration with local affiliates, to plan and execute large-scale terrorist attacks within Nigerian territory.

“The strikes were launched from maritime platforms domiciled in the Gulf of Guinea, after extensive intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance.

“A total of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions were deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, successfully neutralising the targeted ISIS elements attempting to penetrate Nigeria from the Sahel corridor,” Alhaji Idris disclosed.

He added that during the course of the operation, debris from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel.

“No civilian casualties were recorded in either location, and relevant authorities promptly secured the affected areas,” he said.

Alhaji Idris reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve “to confront, degrade, and eliminate terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist networks seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and security.

“Nigeria remains fully aligned with its strategic partners and friends of Nigeria in executing coordinated actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace, border security, and regional stability.”

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is firmly in control of the national security architecture and is fully committed to the protection of lives and property.

“Citizens are urged to remain calm and vigilant as decisive actions continue against all terrorist groups threatening the nation,” Alhaji Idris promised.

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Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Sen. Simon Bako Lalong, has received endorsement from various groups canvassing for his continuity in the Senate ahead of the 2027 General elections.

Senator Lalong, who was in his hometown, Shendam, for the Christmas celebrations, received the endorsement when he visited his campaign office in Shendam, where an APC pressure group dubbed “Lalong Progressive Movement (LPM) announced that it has perfected plans to embark on vigorous mobilisation towards his re-election in 2027.

Alh Musa Gunda, leader of the group, said LPM has a large following in the six local Government areas of the Senatorial District and is determined to ensure that Senator Lalong’s return to the Senate in 2027 is smooth.

The group lauded his achievements and said he has proven to be an exceptional leader with both national and grassroots appeal and a record of achievements.

They informed Senator Lalong that a bus has been donated to the LPM by some of his supporters for the achievement of the objectives of the group.

Senator Lalong, accompanied by the member representing QuaanPan, Shendam, Mikang Federal Constituency, John Dafaan, Dr Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, MD/CEO North Central Development Commission (NCDC) and other supporters, said he was surprised and humbled by the expression of support and prayers.

He said APC is waxing stronger on the Plateau, and the efforts of groups such as the LPM will ensure it sweeps the polls when they take place.

Senator Lalong also attended the Bit Kalong in Dorok Chiefdom, where he applauded the community for sustaining and reviving the culture and traditions of the gamai people.

He assured them that he will continue to work for the development of the area, including the completion of those he left behind as Governor.

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Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has said the recent wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has vindicated former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and the G-5 governors who were previously labelled as traitors.

Speaking during an interview on TVC, Fayose said, “Most of the governors that jumped did so in their own interest, what they felt would secure their future and their people. I wouldn’t blame them.”

He disclosed that he had earlier warned PDP leaders about looming challenges within the party.

“When the roof started sinking, I came out and spoke. I told Sẹ́un Okinbaloye that the PDP would face a lot of challenges,” he stated.

Fayose said Wike was open about grievances within the party, particularly regarding agreements reached with the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, which he claimed were not honoured.

“Governor Wike did not hide anything. He openly said that what Atiku agreed with them was not done. He fought that cause and he did not fight alone,” Fayose said.

He added that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and other members of the G-5 alliance stood firm, noting that they engaged the president on several occasions.

According to Fayose, although many Nigerians initially branded the G-5 governors as traitors, recent events have changed perceptions.

“Many people saw the G-5 governors as traitors. But if you sit back now, the presidential candidate of the PDP has left, the vice-presidential candidate has left, governors and senators have left,” he said.

Fayose concluded that the mass defections show that Wike had foreseen the crisis earlier than others.

“That means Wike has been vindicated. What they never saw, Wike saw earlier on,” he said.

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Sokoto State Government has confirmed that a joint military airstrike involving Nigerian forces and the United States successfully hit terrorist hideouts in the state, with no civilians harmed during the operation.

The strike took place in Tangaza Local Government Area, a border community that has witnessed repeated security threats linked to terrorism and banditry.

The state government said the operation was carefully executed and strictly targeted criminal elements operating in the area.

This confirmation was made public on Friday through an official statement issued by the Director-General of Media and Publicity at Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa.

The statement explained that the operation was carried out earlier in the week as part of broader efforts to weaken terrorist networks within Sokoto State and its surrounding border regions.

According to the government, the air operation was a joint security effort aimed at disrupting the movement, coordination, and operational capacity of armed groups terrorising communities in the North-West.

“The impact of the airstrike could not be immediately determined as assessment reports from the Joint Operations are still being awaited,” the statement said.

The government also reacted to concerns raised by residents over the discovery of suspicious objects near Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area.

Authorities clarified that investigations are ongoing and that security experts from both Nigeria and the United States are still analysing the situation.

“The circumstances surrounding the objects found in a location near Jabo town could not be immediately explained, as the outcome of analysis by Nigeria–US military authorities is being awaited,” the statement added.

Despite public anxiety, the Sokoto State Government stressed that there were no reports of civilian casualties in either Tangaza or Jabo communities. It reassured residents that safety measures were in place and that intelligence-led operations were being conducted with caution.

The government also expressed support for international military cooperation, describing the partnership between Nigeria and the United States as vital in the fight against terrorism and cross-border crimes.

“Sokoto State welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria and all relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state,” the statement noted.

Officials said the ongoing security actions are focused on protecting lives, restoring peace, and ensuring that communities affected by insecurity can return to normal daily activities without fear.

The state government further disclosed that it has continued to support security agencies operating in Sokoto. Over the past two years, the government said it has provided logistics, equipment, and other forms of operational support to strengthen security presence across the state.

“The Sokoto State Government has consistently supported security agencies in the fight against banditry and terrorism by providing necessary equipment to enhance safety across the state,” the statement said.

Residents of affected areas were urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by sharing credible and timely information that could help ongoing operations.

The government also appealed for continued public support for both federal and state authorities.

In addition, citizens were encouraged to pray for the success of security personnel working to restore peace across the state and the country.

“The government calls on residents to continue to pray to Almighty Allah to assist our security agencies to defeat criminals in the state and the country at large,” the statement concluded.

The joint airstrike comes amid intensified military actions across Nigeria’s North-West, where security forces are increasing pressure on armed groups involved in terrorism, banditry, and cross-border criminal activities.

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