Thewireng, 7, Sadiku Street, Oshodi, Lagos (2026)

26/12/2025

PAP Administrator Calls for Peace and Unity in Niger Delta Christmas Message

ABUJA, Nigeria___The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has issued a heartfelt Christmas message to the people of the Niger Delta, calling for a renewed commitment to peace and unity as the region prepares to enter 2026.

In a statement released on Christmas Day by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Dr. Otuaro emphasized that the hard-earned stability currently enjoyed in the region remains the essential bedrock for all ongoing and future development projects.

Dr. Otuaro expressed profound appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, noting that the President's visionary leadership and unwavering support were the driving forces behind the program’s significant successes throughout 2025.

He highlighted that the "Renewed Hope" agenda has translated into tangible benefits for the region, specifically through improved welfare for beneficiaries, enhanced educational and vocational opportunities, and strengthened reintegration outcomes designed to empower Niger Delta youths.

These achievements were further bolstered by the strategic guidance and institutional support provided by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

“Peace and unity remain the strongest foundations for sustainable development. As a people, we must continue to reject violence and embrace dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect as we work collectively for the progress of our region," Otuaro stated.

Reflecting on the spirit of the holidays, the PAP boss described Christmas as a season of love, sacrifice, and compassion—values he believes are deeply ingrained in the communal culture and shared heritage of the Niger Delta people.

As the year draws to a close, Dr. Otuaro urged beneficiaries and residents to celebrate with moderation and a sense of shared responsibility.

He expressed strong optimism that 2026 will usher in even greater prosperity, peace, and collaboration for the Niger Delta and the nation at large.

26/12/2025

U.S.-Nigeria Joint Strike Against ISIS Targets in Sokoto State

ABUJA___Nigeria — In a major coordinated counter-terrorism operation, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) launched precision airstrikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria’s Sokoto State on Christmas Day, officials confirmed Friday.

The strikes, authorized by the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, were conducted in close coordination with the Nigerian government to disrupt extremist networks operating in the country’s Northwest region.

A Unified Front Against Extremism
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement (No: MFA/PR/2025/122) confirming the operation, characterizing it as a milestone in "structured security cooperation" between Abuja and Washington. The ministry noted that the mission relied heavily on shared intelligence and strategic alignment to ensure the hits were precise and effective.

“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," stated Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The operation was specifically designed to degrade the operational capacity of ISIS-affiliated groups that have increasingly threatened the stability of the Sahel and northern Nigeria.

By targeting high-value leadership and insurgent strongholds, the coalition aims to disrupt the financing and supply chains that facilitate cross-border raids. Both nations emphasized that these efforts are grounded in the primacy of protecting civilian lives and safeguarding national unity.

The Federal Government continues to work through established diplomatic channels to weaken these networks while simultaneously strengthening Nigeria's domestic security institutions and intelligence capabilities to ensure long-term regional peace.

The Christmas Day operation comes at a time of heightened security across West Africa, as local and international forces work to prevent terrorist groups from exploiting porous borders.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that it will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through official channels as the situation evolves.

23/12/2025

BREAKING: Huge blow to Rivers PDP as six Reps defect to APC

A major political shift has hit the Rivers State PDP as six members of the House of Representatives officially cross the carpet to the APC.

The defectors include:
• Dumnamere Dekor (Khana/Gokana)
• Solomon Bob (Abua/Odual & Ahoada East)
• Hart Cyril (Degema/Bonny)
• Victor Obuzor (Ahoada West/ONELGA)
• Blessing Amadi (PHALGA II)
• Felix Nweke (Eleme/Oyigbo/Tai)

23/12/2025

Nigeria Customs Seizes 20 Diverted Containers Worth ₦769.5m
..As CGC Adeniyi Vows No Safe Haven for Economic Saboteurs

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 20 diverted transit containers with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦769,533,666 across the axis of Kano/Jigawa Area Command, following intelligence-driven enforcement operations aimed at curbing cargo diversion and safeguarding government revenue.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this development during a press briefing held in Kano on Friday, 19 December 2025.

He explained that the seizures, which occurred between the second and fourth quarters of 2025, were part of the Service's sustained efforts to detect and dismantle organised cargo diversion networks.

According to the Comptroller-General, cargo diversion poses a serious threat to national revenue, security, and Nigeria’s credibility within the global trading system. “Cargo diversion is a grave offence that undermines government revenue, compromises national security, and damages Nigeria’s standing in international commerce. The Nigeria Customs Service will not hesitate to deploy all lawful measures to detect, deter, and punish offenders,” he stated.

The seized containers were found to contain various items, including vitrified tiles unlawfully diverted from the Kano Free Trade Zone with a DPV of ₦228.6 million, diesel engine oil, polyester materials, used clothing, printed and lace fabrics, medical consumables, and Zamzam bottled water. Some of the items are classified as prohibited imports under the Common External Tariff (CET) regulations.

The Comptroller-General further disclosed that while one container remains under detention pending the conclusion of legal processes, two containers of medical consumables were forfeited to the Federal Government following a judgment delivered by the Federal High Court, Kano Division, on 10 December 2025.

He also confirmed the arrest, prosecution, and conviction of Abdulrahman Sani Adam for the offence of container diversion. The offender was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment with an option of a ₦3 million fine, a development Adeniyi described as a strong deterrent against future violations.

To further strengthen transit cargo monitoring, the Comptroller-General announced the near-nationwide deployment of electronic container tracking devices. He noted that the system enables real-time monitoring, route compliance, and tamper alerts from ports to inland destinations.

The CGC reaffirmed its commitment to service, trade facilitation, revenue protection, and border security, warning that smugglers and their collaborators will face prosecution, forfeiture, and loss of trading privileges.

Importers, agents, and logistics operators were urged to adhere strictly to approved transit procedures and report any suspicious activities to the nearest Customs office.

23/12/2025

On 20th December, 2025, Yenagoa did not merely host an event; it entered into a sacred conversation with history. The city breathed differently as the Izon Cultural Heritage Centre unveiled the Woyin Festival, transforming the venue into the revered Temple of Woyin, a spiritual hearth where motherhood, fertility, blessings, and love were not just celebrated but enthroned.

Details 👇

22/12/2025

Residents Flee Okunran Community as Insecurity Worsens in Yagba West

Residents of Okunran community in Yagba West Local Government Area are abandoning their homes in large numbers following persistent security challenges that have continued to disrupt daily life in the area.

This is according to Egbe Mekun Parrot saying findings reveal that the situation has deteriorated to the point where houses are being dismantled, with roofs reportedly removed as families relocate to safer locations.

The steady exodus, according to locals, is driven by fear and uncertainty caused by repeated security threats and the absence of lasting protection.

Community members say the once quiet settlement is gradually emptying out, as livelihoods are lost and properties left behind.

Many residents lament that years of hard work are being stripped away, plank by plank, zinc by zinc, just to survive another day elsewhere.

Calls are growing for urgent intervention from security agencies and government authorities to restore safety and prevent the total abandonment of the community.

22/12/2025

IGP Orders Massive Nationwide Deployment for Secure Yuletide Celebrations

ABUJA___ In a proactive move to ensure a hitch-free festive season, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered a strategic, nationwide deployment of police personnel and operational assets. The directive aims to guarantee a safe, peaceful, and crime-free environment for Nigerians as they celebrate Christmas and the New Year.

In line with the Force’s proactive security strategy, the IGP has directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and State Command Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols, visibility policing, and intelligence-led operations.

This directive places specialized units on heightened operational readiness, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command, and the Special Intervention Squad. The Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and Airwing units have also been mobilized to provide comprehensive coverage across land, sea, and air.

The deployment focuses specifically on high-density public spaces such as places of worship, recreational centers, markets, and transport terminals.

Additional patrol teams and surveillance units have been activated to monitor major expressways and inter-state routes, aiming to prevent road-related crimes, manage traffic disorder, and reduce the risk of accidents during the busy travel period.

Officers on the ground have been strictly charged to remain firm in their enforcement of the law while maintaining a courteous and professional demeanour toward the public.

Furthermore, the IGP has ordered all Commands to sustain aggressive raids on identified blackspots, forests, and criminal hideouts to preemptively neutralize potential threats.

This security framework relies heavily on strengthened collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure holistic coverage across every state.

While wishing all Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the Inspector-General of Police urged citizens to remain vigilant and celebrate responsibly.

He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines, reaffirming the steadfast devotion of the Nigeria Police Force to maintaining an atmosphere of peace and safety throughout the Yuletide season and beyond.

22/12/2025

Federal Government Declares Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day. Additionally, Thursday, January 1, 2026, has been declared a public holiday for the New Year celebration.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on behalf of the Federal Government, urging citizens to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and moderate in their celebrations.

He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for national peace, security, and progress, while supporting the government's efforts towards development and cohesion.

22/12/2025

US, Nigeria sign landmark $5.1B health deal

The United States signed a five-year, $5.1B bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Republic of Nigeria to advance the America First Global Health Strategy.

Under the MOU, the United States intends to provide $2.1 billion in support, with Nigeria investing $3.0 billion in new domestic health spending over five years - the largest co-investment by any country to date under the Strategy.

This five-year MOU will strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

The MOU includes approximately $200M in dedicated support to more than 900 Christian faith-based healthcare facilities, expanding access to integrated HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal and child health services.

Christian faith-based clinics represent about 10% of providers in Nigeria but serve more than 30% of Nigeria's 230 million people, often in underserved areas.

With Nigeria facing one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates globally and accounting for 30% of the global malaria burden, this U.S. assistance protects Nigerian and American lives while strengthening our bilateral partnership.

22/12/2025

Dangote Refinery Urges Nigerians to Report MRS Stations Selling Petrol Above ₦739/Litre

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has called on Nigerians to report any MRS Oil Nigeria Plc filling station selling Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, above the approved price of ₦739 per litre.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the refinery announced the commencement of nationwide sales of petrol at ₦739 per litre exclusively through over 2,000 MRS stations across the country. This price reduction, backed by a guaranteed daily supply of 50 million litres, aims to provide relief to consumers, stabilize the downstream market, and counter seasonal fuel scarcity often seen during the festive period.

The refinery commended MRS and other compliant marketers for "demonstrating patriotism" by implementing the reduced pump price, while urging other operators to patronize its products to extend the benefits nationwide.

It strongly warned against "unscrupulous" attempts to create artificial scarcity or inflate prices, describing such actions as "unpatriotic" and calling on regulatory authorities to intervene firmly.

"We encourage Nigerians to avoid buying PMS at excessively high prices when they can access locally refined fuel at ₦739 per litre from over 2,000 MRS stations nationwide. Report any MRS station selling above ₦739 per litre by calling 0800 123 5264,” the statement reads in part.

22/12/2025

A Non Governmental organisation, Girls In Tech Initiatives Bayelsa has launched a sensitisation campaign tagged “Tech&Tea” to encourage participation of the girl child in tech, building of digital skills and creating new income streams.

Details👇

22/12/2025

SERAP Urges Tinubu to Publish Certified True Copies of New Tax Laws Amid Transparency Concerns

ABUJA___ The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued an urgent appeal to President Bola Tinubu, demanding full transparency regarding the recently enacted tax reforms.

In a formal letter released on Sunday, the advocacy group urged the President to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to widely publish Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the tax bills as received from the National Assembly, as well as the final versions signed into law.

The request follows growing public interest and debates surrounding the authenticity and consistency of the legislative documents currently being implemented.

SERAP is seeking a formal clarification from the Attorney General on whether the bills transmitted by the National Assembly are identical in content to the laws signed by the President and the versions subsequently gazetted.

"Widely publishing a certified true copy of the version of the tax bills received from the National Assembly and a certified true copy of the tax laws signed by President Bola Tinubu would allow Nigerians to scrutinise the laws and compare them with the version of the tax laws ultimately gazetted," the organisation stated.

The move by SERAP aims to eliminate any discrepancies or "hidden" provisions that may have been altered between the legislative passage and the final gazetting process.

The group maintains that such transparency is essential for the rule of law and to ensure that the Nigerian public can hold the government accountable for the specific provisions of the new tax regime.

As of Sunday evening, the Presidency and the Office of the Attorney General had yet to issue an official response to the request.

The tax bills have been a subject of intense national debate, with various stakeholders expressing concerns over their impact on businesses and the cost of living. SERAP’s intervention adds a new layer of scrutiny, focusing on the procedural integrity of how the bills became law.

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