FreshReporters Media, Ilorin (2026)

10/07/2026

Army, NEMA Strengthen Partnership to Improve Disaster Response, Flood Preparedness
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The Nigerian Army and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have strengthened their partnership to improve disaster preparedness and emergency response across the country, particularly ahead of the 2026 flood season. The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting between the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and NEMA Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Abubakar Umar, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

Lieutenant General Shaibu said the Nigerian Army remains committed to supporting civil authorities during emergencies and disclosed that the Army has established Disaster Response Units (DRUs) across all six geopolitical zones. He added that the units are strategically positioned for rapid deployment to flood-prone and other high-risk areas.

To enhance inter-agency coordination, the Army Chief directed that NEMA be granted access to the Land Forces Simulation Centre for joint training, tabletop exercises, and disaster planning. He also urged the agency to strengthen the monitoring of dams and reservoirs, improve early warning systems, and promote regional cooperation to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.

Speaking earlier, NEMA Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Abubakar Umar, revealed that 33 states are at risk of flooding during the current rainy season. She commended the Nigerian Army for its continued support in disaster management and appealed for greater military assistance in engineering, aviation, and search-and-rescue operations to strengthen the country's emergency response capacity.

10/07/2026

K!ling Rèpentant Insurgents and Secéssionists Is Against Religious and International Law — Sheikh Gumi Warns
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Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has condemned calls for the killing of repentant insurgents and secessionists, insisting that such actions violate both religious teachings and international law.

Gumi made the remarks in a Facebook post on Friday, days after the Senate urged the Federal Government to end the rehabilitation of repentant terrorists and instead prosecute anyone found guilty of terrorism and other related offences.

The cleric argued that executing repentant insurgents, secessionists, or prisoners of war is morally wrong and contrary to both Islamic principles and international legal standards. He also cautioned that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is monitoring such actions, urging those involved to consider both legal and spiritual consequences.

According to Gumi, adopting the same methods as terrorist groups by killing perceived enemies only erodes morality and does not help in winning the fight against insecurity. He stressed that emotions should never determine decisions in conflict situations.

He said, "Killing repentant insurgents and secessionists is against religious and international law. So also prisoners of war. The ICC is listening if you don't fear Allah. Where is morality? It's the same logic terrorists employ to kill all others besides them. Emotions don't win a war."

The Senate had, during Tuesday's plenary, resolved that individuals found culpable of terrorism and other organised criminal offences should face immediate prosecution rather than rehabilitation. Lawmakers argued that justice must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in Nigeria's criminal justice system.

The resolution formed part of broader measures adopted by the Senate to address the country's worsening security challenges.

10/07/2026

Nigeria Is Witnessing Unprecedented Progress Under Tinubu — Ooni of Ife
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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has praised President Bola Tinubu's administration, stating that Nigeria is experiencing progress never seen before in its history.

Speaking at the inauguration of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement in Abuja on Thursday, the monarch commended Tinubu's economic and governance reforms, describing them as historic.

"President Bola Ahmed came very prepared, and the result is obvious. From public governance to the private sector, what's happening in this country has never been experienced before. If you go to the capital market of Nigeria today, we are getting to a market capitalisation of over ₦140 trillion. Never in the history of Nigeria," he said.

The Ooni also noted that the administration's reforms had elevated Nigeria's standing globally, adding, "Never in the history of our country has Nigeria played a strategic role in the European economy."

Highlighting improvements in external reserves, the monarch said Tinubu's policies were laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

"Also, the foreign reserve of this country is now getting to $52 billion. This can finance importation in the next three years conveniently. The projection is there, and clearly the dollar is going to be stabilised, and there won't be anything to shake our foreign exchange. The disparity is so close. No more arbitrage. No more rent-seeking. We are now ready for real production in our country. Look at what he has done to Ajaokuta Steel and the NNPC," he said.

The traditional ruler expressed confidence in the President, saying traditional rulers across the country were proud to identify with his administration.

10/07/2026

Tinubu Picks Shettima as Running Mate for 2027 Election
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President Bola Tinubu has officially submitted the name of Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, putting an end to months of speculation over a possible replacement.

The move follows weeks of uncertainty amid reports that political calculations ahead of the election could see Tinubu pick a new vice-presidential candidate. Shettima's position had also come under scrutiny after some stakeholders within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including members from the North-East, declined to endorse him.

There had also been speculation that the President might select a northern Christian as his running mate for the 2027 race.

However, the uncertainty has now been laid to rest, with Tinubu formally renominating Shettima as his vice-presidential candidate.

The development was announced by the President's Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, in a post on X.

He wrote, "About now, at the Continental Hotel, Abuja, President Tinubu submits INEC nomination form to the APC NWC as Sole Presidential Candidate for the 2027 Elections. President Bola Ahmad Tinubu has equally tapped Kashim Shettima, the current Vice President, Senator, as his running mate for vice president in the 2027 election."

10/07/2026

BREAKING: Oyo School Abdüction Cris!s Ends As All K!dnapped Pupils and Teachers Rescued Safely
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In a major breakthrough, security agencies have successfully rescued all pupils and teachers abducted in Orire, Oyo State, bringing a harrowing days-long ordeal to a close. Officials confirmed the operation, which involved coordinated efforts by the military, police, and intelligence units, concluded without any reported fatalities among the hostages.

While details of the rescue mission remain under wraps, sources indicate that the captives were freed in a tactical nighttime operation deep within a forested area. They are currently receiving medical checks and psychological support before being reunited with their families.

Bayo Onanuga, the presidential aide Governor Seyi Makinde praised the security forces for their “courage and professionalism,” while parents wept with relief as news spread.

He posted via his X handle “Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo have been rescued by our security agencies.”

The government has assured the public that intensified patrols will continue in the region to prevent future incidents. However, no official statement has been released yet regarding the status of the abductors, as investigations are ongoing.

For now, the community breathes a collective sigh of relief though the trauma of the event lingers, the safe return of every last captive stands as a rare victory in Nigeria’s battle against school abductions.

10/07/2026

Defence Minister Commissions 62 Armoured Personnel Carriers to Boost Security in Sokoto
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Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commissioned 62 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) alongside a fleet of operational vehicles and other advanced security assets procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony in Sokoto, the Minister said the investment would significantly improve the protection, mobility, and tactical effectiveness of troops and other security personnel. He directed security forces to make the most effective use of the newly acquired assets and translate the enhanced operational capability into decisive victories against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements.

General Musa reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to work closely with state governments, security agencies, and local communities to ensure lasting peace and security across the country. He stressed that collaboration remains essential in tackling Nigeria's security challenges.

The Minister also commended Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, for prioritising the safety of residents through the procurement of the security assets, describing the investment as a significant contribution to ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.

10/07/2026

Poorly Implemented State Police Could Be a 'Hiroshima' — Defence Minister Musa Warns
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Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has cautioned that while state police could help address the country's security challenges, poor implementation could lead to disastrous consequences.

Speaking at an Arise TV Town Hall meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Musa said, "State police is a good thing if well harnessed, planned, and executed. It could be the silver bullet that we need. But again, if not well executed, it could turn out to be the Hiroshima that we are afraid of."

He stressed that any state police structure must not be influenced by ethnicity, religion, or the interests of the elite.

"State police should not be ethnic-based, it must not be religion-based, and it must not be for the elite," he said. He recommended a phased implementation, starting with state capitals, to better understand operational challenges before expanding nationwide.

Musa also urged Nigerians to take responsibility for the country's progress, saying, "Most Nigerians want change, but they want somebody to change and not themselves. Every Nigerian must be the change that we so much desire."

He acknowledged that the country still faces major challenges, including ethnic divisions, religious sentiments, and elitist interests, but maintained that the Nigeria Police Force has continued to perform commendably despite the difficult circumstances under which it operates.

10/07/2026

48-Year-Old Chadian Woman Arrested in Borno as Troops Intercept Suspected Drûg Shipment Bound for Térrorists in Lake Chad
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Troops of Sector 3, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have arrested a suspected foreign drug courier and seized a large cache of illicit drugs, alcoholic drinks, and other prohibited substances allegedly being transported to terrorists hiding in the Lake Chad Islands.

The suspect, Mrs. Rachael Samuel, 48, a Chadian national from Kelo, Chari-Baguirmi Province, was arrested on Thursday, July 9, 2026, during a search operation along the Maiduguri–Monguno road while travelling toward Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to a statement by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, preliminary investigations indicate the items were intended for locations within the Lake Chad Islands, an area known to harbour terrorist groups.

Recovered exhibits include seven compressed bundles of suspected cannabis sativa weighing about 30kg, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, popularly known as "Suck and Die," 48 bottles of dry gin, 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic beverages, a mobile phone, two ATM cards, personal belongings, and cash. The military said the seized items are worth millions of naira.

The suspect remains in military custody, while the recovered exhibits will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further investigation and prosecution.

Operation HADIN KAI said the interception is another major blow to terrorist logistics, noting that intelligence has consistently shown that insurgents rely on illicit drugs and intoxicants to embolden fighters, suppress fear, and aid violent operations.

The Theatre Command praised the troops for their vigilance and urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to support ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the North-East.

10/07/2026

"Find Out If They're Stingy, Can Cook, a Troll, or Have an SS Genotype Before You Date Them" — Simisanya Advises Singles
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Influencer Simisanya, wife of popular videographer Femi Dapson, has advised singles to use the talking stage to ask practical questions that can reveal compatibility before committing to a relationship, rather than waiting until marriage plans begin.

Speaking on a recent episode of the Talk Your Talk podcast, Simisanya stressed that conversations before dating should go beyond romance and cover important issues such as genotype, personality, lifestyle, and values.

According to her, one of the first things people should find out is each other's genotype to avoid future heartbreak.

"You get some things people can take. People should ask, 'Are you AS or SS? Are you AA?' So that if we actually date and later decide we want to marry, we won't start running around when we discover we're not compatible."

She also encouraged people to ask about everyday habits that could affect a relationship, including domestic expectations.

"Those are talking-stage questions. Ask, 'Do you like fresh food?' Because I don't know how to cook, so we might not be compatible."

Simisanya added that a person's behaviour on social media can also reveal a lot about their character, saying it is important to know if a potential partner constantly engages in online fights or trolling.

"Do you always go and fight on Twitter? Do you beat girls? Are you a banga boy? Are you always on Instagram commenting and fighting? Are you a troll?"

She further advised people to pay attention to how a potential partner treats others online, especially women, and to ask whether they are naturally generous or stingy before entering a relationship.

"Do you normally insult girls that ask questions like, 'What do you bring to the table?' Are you stingy? Are you generous? Those are very important questions."

According to Simisanya, asking these questions early helps both people understand whether they are truly compatible and can prevent unnecessary conflicts or disappointments later in the relationship.

10/07/2026

Ex-Arsenal Star Samir Nasri Arrested in France Over Money Láundering Probe Linked to Drûg Traff!cker
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Former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri was arrested and questioned by French police on Thursday as part of an investigation into an alleged money laundering network linked to convicted drug trafficker Hakim Berrebouh, also known as "Wild Boar."

The 39-year-old former France international, now a football pundit for Canal Plus, was reportedly interrogated for about 10 hours before being released without charge later that evening. No formal charges have been filed against him.

The investigation centres on suspected drug importation, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering. Authorities are examining possible links between Nasri and Berrebouh's network, as well as Olivier Sabbah, known as "Paulo," who is believed to play a key role in the alleged laundering operation.

Investigators are also scrutinising Nasri's involvement with the XS nightclub in Ivry-sur-Seine. The former player reportedly became a shareholder in the club around 2016 after investing several hundred thousand euros while at Manchester City.

Nasri later became a co-owner alongside Bilele Z., a regular patron who was also taken into custody on Thursday as part of the probe.

The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed against the former Premier League star at this stage.

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