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President Bola Tinubu will on Monday pay an official visit to Adamawa State, less than 48 hours after he made a similar visit to Kebbi.

During the one-day visit, President Tinubu will inaugurate completed projects and meet with top government officials and traditional rulers.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President  on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, said among projects billed for inauguration in the capital, Yola, and Jimeta, is the eight-lane Galadima Aminu Road linking Gimba and the capital.

The model school, comprising pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary classes, will also be inaugurated by the President.

Others include the new multipurpose hall, the remodelled High Court, the newly built officers’ complex, and the renovated Government House.

According to the statement, “The President will return to Abuja after the inauguration and the interaction with the state’s indigenes.”

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Primate Elijah Ayodele, founder and spiritual head of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke Afa, Lagos, has unveiled a mosque he built and dedicated to Abibatu Mogaji, the late mother of President Bola Tinubu.

The mosque was inaugurated on Saturday during Ayodele’s annual thanksgiving programme held at Oke-Afa in Lagos.

The ceremony attracted guests from religious, traditional, political and entertainment circles, among them Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the president’s first daughter, who was represented by delegates, as well as Agbu Kefas, represented by his special adviser on Islamic matters.

Addressing attendees, Ayodele described the project as a “direct divine instruction he could not ignore”, adding that the mosque is simply a “house of worship for God”, just like churches, and that he has no personal stake in its management.

He handed the mosque over to a Muslim cleric present at the event.

“Building this mosque isn’t because I want attention or anything from anyone; it was a divine instruction that I cannot ignore,” he said.

“I am only answerable to God, so whatever anyone says doesn’t matter to me as long as God is pleased with me.”

On the decision behind the mosque’s name, Ayodele said he had first intended to call it Folawuyo Mosque but later changed it following “divine direction”.

He dismissed claims of political motives or criticism over his past position on the APC and Tinubu, stressing that the gesture was not intended to secure favours or appointments.

Muslim clerics at the gathering hailed the move as a strong sign of interfaith harmony.

An Islamic cleric, who began his remarks with Christian hymns, cited Proverbs 3:3 while praising Ayodele, saying it demonstrated “we are one” and pledged reciprocity.

A representative of the chief Imam of Ikorodu Division described Ayodele as a genuine prophet sent by God, comparing his name Elijah to the Quranic figure, and urged Nigerians to shun religious conflicts in favour of unity.

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Suspected bandits have abducted the wives and daughters of Imam Abubakar Muhammad Digare, the Chief Imam of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), in Digare town, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, along with several other residents.

The incident, which took place on Saturday night, has heightened anxiety among residents and underscored the persistent security concerns in the area.

Security analyst Bakatsine said the attackers invaded the residence under the cover of darkness and forcefully took several victims to an undisclosed location. As of the time of reporting, security agencies had not released an official figure for the number of people abducted.

Residents said the attack has deepened fear in the community, with many people choosing to remain indoors and restrict their movements.

Bakatsine described the implications of the incident for the region’s security.

He said, “The attack on the residence of Imam Abubakar Muhammad Digare is a clear indication of the growing audacity of criminal gangs in the region. Such acts are designed to instil fear and demonstrate the weakness of local security arrangements.”

On the possible impact on community stability, Bakatsine noted, “Abductions targeting prominent religious leaders are particularly alarming because they can destabilise communal trust and provoke tensions within the community.”

He also stressed the importance of prompt government intervention.
“Authorities need to respond swiftly and effectively to prevent further escalation. This incident underscores the urgent need for coordinated security strategies in Bauchi and surrounding states,” he said.

Residents said several women and children were among those abducted, adding that the situation turned chaotic as the attackers quickly fled after seizing their victims.

The latest raid is part of a series of recent security incidents across Bauchi State, where communities have reported kidnappings, armed robberies, and other violent attacks in different areas.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)

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Men Missionary Union, MMU, of First Baptist Church, Gwagwalada Abuja has celebrated this year’s Emphasis Sunday.

The 2026 Emphasis Sunday themed “Restorer of Broken Walls” was drawn from the book of Nehemiah chapter 1 verse 1 to 9.

Delivering a sermon to mark the occasion, the Minister in charge of the Church, Reverend Deji Oyelami, admonished christians to rebuild whatever walls that have fallen in their service to God.

Reverend Oyelami, who expressed concern over the attitude of some christians towards the gospel, stressed the need for christians to be in the vanguard of rebuilding any fallen walls in their various denominations and society towards ensuring the betterment of the country.

He identified lack of family values, immorality, dishonesty, lack of transparency, patriotism among others as some of the broken walls that needed rebuilding towards repositioning the country for greatness.

According to the Clergyman, propagating the gospel of Jesus Christ and upholding the principles and guidance of the word of God must be strictly adhered to for building the broken walls either in Churches and the society in general.

While admonishing the congregation to allow God to rebuild the broken walls in their lives, Reverend Deji Oyelami emphasized the need for Christians to shun unbiblical messages and false preachers to avoid missing the tracks.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s Emphasis Sunday “Restorer of Broken Walls”, the President of Men Missionary Union, MMU, of the Church, Engr. Aderemi Ajibade said the annual programme was to remind Christian Fathers most especially members of MMU in the Baptist family of what is expected of them in their service to God and humanity in line with the injunction of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, NBC.

Engr. Ajibade therefore advised members of MMU to put into practice the lessons of the Emphasis Sunday towards rebuilding broken walls in their lives and endeavours.

While wishing members of MMU of the Church a blessed Emphasis Sunday stated that the Union would continue to embark on programmes and activities that would strengthen the faith of members in God.

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Minister of Works Dave Umahi has said former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, should be clearly told that the time has not come for the Igbo to produce Nigeria’s president, cautioning that his ambition should not place the people of the Southeast at risk.

The minister also disclosed that the current administration met 2,068 ongoing projects valued at ₦13 trillion before the removal of fuel subsidy and the flotation of the naira.

Umahi made the remarks while speaking with journalists during an inspection of the reconstruction of the 56-kilometre Aba section of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Abia State.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu, through appointments and projects initiated in the Southeast since assuming office in 2023, has addressed the marginalisation previously experienced by the region.

During the inspection, which also covered the Alaoji Railway overhead bridge and the Obehie axis, the minister cited projects such as the Onitsha–Owerri and Enugu–Abakaliki corridors as evidence that the region is no longer neglected.

“Unless we are not telling ourselves the truth, there is no more marginalisation in the Southeast,” Umahi stated.

“We have never had a Minister of Works from this region until now. It is time for the Southeast to be strategic and support President Tinubu. We should tell our brother, Peter Obi, that it is not yet our turn.”

He added that the Southeast must build alliances with other parts of the country, noting that the 2027 general election offers an opportunity for the Igbo to reciprocate what he described as the President’s goodwill towards the zone.

“To have given Southeast the Minister of Works portfolio, we have never been Minister of Works, and you can see the product and the intention and good heart of the President, and so, it is time for a payback. You all know the amount of work from Port Harcourt to Enugu; there is no section of this work that is not going on for completion.

“Never in the history of Nigeria have we benefited as such. I was a Deputy Governor and then Governor for 8 years. No single project came to that state, but today, we can boast of a number of projects that are ongoing. We can boast of trillions of naira projects going on in the Southeast, like in other regions.

“The test legacy project of the President is in the Southeast. We have a service chief, we have key appointments and a lot that is going on in the Southeast under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. So, it is time to support the President; the people of the Southeast should support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We should not engage in sentiments. We should not engage in non-strategic moves. We should tell our brother, Peter Obi, that it is not yet our turn; when it is our turn, Nigerians and Southeast people will know when it is our turn.”

On the number of projects nationwide, Umahi said, “We inherited 2,068 ongoing projects totaling ₦13tn before the removal of fuel subsidy and naira flotation.

“To ensure these jobs don’t stop, we have migrated contractors like Arab Contractors to the Sukuk fund. They have ₦2bn to claim immediately, and with the 2025 budget allocations, they will have access to ₦4.7bn by the end of this month.”

At the Obehie axis, where work is being handled by CCECC and indigenous contractor JRB, the minister commended the performance of local firms. He also announced a new construction approach, introducing reinforced concrete pavement on the Port Harcourt-bound lane to guarantee durability for at least 50 years.

“We are building roads, not just constructing them. JRB has been mobilised on emergency grounds to fast-track the remaining sections.”

Umahi further directed contractors working on the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway to meet a May 15, 2024, deadline for the commissioning of the Aba to Imo River section by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Responding to criticism over transparency, he said: “They want me to be accountable, and I enjoy it. I am presiding over the funds of the Federation. If you have a petition, send it to the ICPC. Our projects are open for verification.”

(SUN)

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A former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has written to the Office of the National Security Adviser, requesting clarification over what he described as information circulating among opposition leaders about the alleged purchase of a toxic chemical.

In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, El-Rufai said he was seeking “clarification and reassurance” concerning reports that the office intended to import thallium sulphate.

He shared a copy of the correspondence on his official X handle on Sunday.

The former governor described the substance as dangerous and strictly regulated, noting that the situation required openness.

“I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland.

“Given that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, I believe it is important – for public safety, democratic accountability and for maintaining public trust – to confirm the following details”, the letter partly read.

He identified six areas where he wants explanations, including “the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate, the identity of the supplier and whether the importation followed due authorisation, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and the regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.”

El-Rufai also asked, “whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.”

While stating that the request was not made with ill intent, he maintained that transparency would help strengthen public confidence in national institutions.

He also sought further engagement from the security office.

“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed.

“Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.

“If possible, I would appreciate a response or a point of contact within your office for further engagement to reassure those of us that are Nigerian citizens in opposition,” the letter added.

He added that copies of the letter were sent to other relevant agencies.

“For completeness, I am copying this correspondence to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), both of which play essential roles in chemical safety and public-health preparedness,” he said.

THE development comes shortly after security operatives attempted to arrest him at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Recall that El-Rufai, in an interview on Arise TV on Friday, alleged that he discovered a plan to arrest him upon his return to the country on Thursday through a leaked conversation from the NSA’s phone.

“Ribadu made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks that they’re the only ones that listen to calls. But we also have our ways. He made the call. He gave the order that they should arrest me”, he said in the interview.

The issue also comes amid growing debate over election cycles, national security operations and the role of oversight institutions, with opposition figures repeatedly calling for greater transparency in federal procurements.

As of the time of filing this report, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued any public response to the letter.

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The Citizens for Strategic Defence Cooperation (CSDC), a pro-security advocacy coalition, has expressed support for the Federal Government’s move to expand military cooperation with the United States Armed Forces, maintaining that Nigeria’s sovereignty has not been compromised.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the group characterised the development as a “measured and strategic partnership” aimed at reinforcing the country’s campaign against terrorism, insurgency and transnational criminal networks.

The coalition stated that conversations around the presence of U.S. military personnel in Nigeria should be anchored on facts instead of emotional reactions.

“Our sovereignty is not for sale, and it has not been compromised,” the statement signed by CSDC Secretary, Abdulmajid Danladi read.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain in full operational control of all security activities within our territory. Any cooperation with foreign partners is structured, limited and governed by Nigerian law.”

CSDC noted that Nigeria has a history of defence cooperation with allied countries, particularly in training, intelligence exchange and capacity development. It added that the changing nature of security threats—ranging from terrorism and banditry to piracy and cybercrime—demands joint responses.

According to the group, deeper engagement with the United States Department of Defense would open access to advanced training, intelligence systems and modern operational practices.

“Modern warfare is technology-driven. Intelligence gathering, surveillance and counter-terror strategies are globalised. Refusing to cooperate with international allies would isolate Nigeria at a time when collaboration is essential,” the group noted.

The coalition praised the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, describing the decision as “forward-looking” and in line with the long-standing diplomatic and security ties between Nigeria and the United States.

It also stressed that the presence of foreign troops—where necessary—should not be interpreted as foreign dominance.

“There is a clear difference between cooperation and occupation,” the statement added. “Nigeria is not hosting foreign bases that override its authority. What exists is structured engagement designed to improve the capabilities of our own troops.”

CSDC called on citizens to assess the partnership from a national interest perspective rather than through partisan considerations.

“Our troops deserve every legitimate advantage in confronting violent threats. If collaboration with experienced global partners enhances their safety and effectiveness, then it is a responsible step,” the group said.

The coalition further urged the government to remain transparent and ensure all defence agreements align with constitutional provisions and the country’s foreign policy framework.

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The Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has confirmed the death of a Channels Television cameraman, Kani Ben, nine days after he was involved in a road accident.

The state NUJ Chairman, Umar Said, made this known on Sunday while addressing journalists in Bauchi, expressing grief over the loss.

He said, “Mr Ben was a dedicated cameraman with Channels Television who passed away following injuries sustained in a motor accident while on official assignment in Bauchi.”

Said stated that the late cameraman was part of a team of journalists covering the commissioning and handover of projects executed by the North-East Development Commission alongside the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, when the accident happened.

Meanwhile, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.

In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the governor described the incident as painful and heartbreaking.

Mohammed recounted the events surrounding the accident, saying that despite efforts by medical personnel to save him, Ben died in the early hours of Sunday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital.

He noted that the late cameraman died in active service and remained committed to his duty of keeping Nigerians informed.

The governor praised the deceased’s dedication, courage, and sense of responsibility, which he said were evident until his final moments.

Mohammed extended his condolences to the immediate family, the management and staff of Channels Television, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the wider media community.

He prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and urged his family, friends, and colleagues to find strength during the difficult period.

“The Government of Bauchi State stands in solidarity with the media community at this difficult time and reassures all of its continued respect and support for journalists who risk their lives daily in the course of their duties,” the governor stated.

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A China-based Nigerian businessman, Ibeanu Chukwudulue, and two Angolan nationals, Mbandu  Makiadi and Ngoma Wilson Fernando, have excreted a combined total of 236 wraps of cocaine after their arrest by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja.

The statement said the 34-year-old Ibeanu was apprehended on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, while on board Qatar Airways flight 1432 from Kano to China via Abuja and Doha.

“Acting on credible intelligence, NDLEA operatives at the Abuja airport demanded that the suspect be deboarded following which he was taken for body scan. The result confirmed the suspect ingested illicit drug.

“He was thereafter placed under observation during which he excreted a total of 52 pellets of cocaine that weighed 735.95 grams. In his statement, Ibeanu said he was into business on Lagos Island before relocating to Guanzhou, China in 2024.

“The duo of Mbandu Martins Makiadi, 50, and Ngoma Wilson Fernando, 52, both Angolans were intercepted on Wednesday 4th February at the screening point of the departure hall of Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano during the outward clearance of passengers going to Istanbul, Turkey via Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines flight ET940.

“When they were taken for body scan, they tested positive for ingesting illicit drug. As a result, they were kept under observation for possible excretion. While Mbandu excreted a total of 76 wraps weighing 920 grams in seven excretions, Ngoma expelled 108 pellets that weighed 1.33 kilograms in five excretions,” the statement said.

According to the statement, the suspects, who are from Hoji Ya Henda in Luanda, Angola’s capital, said they were recruited by a spare parts dealer in Luanda who promised to pay them $3,000 each after successful delivery of the drugs in Turkey.

In a separate incident, NDLEA operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, foiled an alleged attempt by a convicted drug kingpin, Olashupo Michael Oladimeji, to export 1.10 kilograms of cocaine to London, United Kingdom, on a Virgin Atlantic flight.

The drugs were concealed in processed cassava granules, commonly known as garri.

“Olashupo is presently serving a five-year jail term at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, Lagos, after NDLEA arrested him in 2025 in connection with a case of unlawful conspiracy to export 17.90kg cocaine, and was successfully prosecuted, convicted and sentenced in charge number FHC/L/925C/2025, by a Federal High Court in Lagos.

“Not ready to give up on his criminal enterprise, the convict who is the Chief Executive Officer of Dimeji Express Logistics, (allegedly) initiated the latest scheme from behind the prison wall to export the 1.10kg cocaine, using his company. His lid was however uncovered on Thursday 12th February when NDLEA officers at the export shed of the Lagos airport intercepted a consignment of compressed block of cocaine, hidden in a sack of Garri which was further packed inside a carton.

“A staff of Dimeji Express Logistics, Adedeji Yusuf Gbolahan who presented the consignment for export was promptly arrested. Investigations revealed that Olashupo Michael Oladimeji, initiated the trafficking scheme from prison and directed Yusuf to pick the consignment at a location in Oshodi.

“(Alleged) similar attempt by a 44-year-old estate surveyor Adelaja Taiwo Adetayo to export 1.70 kilograms of skunk concealed in five jerry cans to the UK, was equally frustrated by NDLEA operatives at the export shed of the Lagos airport. The cargo agent Mustapha Quddus Opeyemi who presented the consignment for export was initially arrested while a follow up operation led to the arrest of Adelaja at Ahmadiyya area of Lagos on Monday 9th February,” the statement added.

The agency also reported another interception in Abuja, where operatives on Thursday, February 12, stopped a waybill package sent from Enugu containing a children’s toy guitar.

“A search of the guitar revealed that it was used to conceal two parcels of Canadian Loud, a strain of Cannabis, weighing 59.2grams. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of the owner of the consignment Henry Onuma at Dream City Estate, Life Camp.

“In Lagos, NDLEA officers on Friday 13th February raided a 4-bedroom duplex at 2 Alexandria Terrace, Ikate-Elegushi, Lekki, used for the production and storage of Colorado, a synthetic cannabis. The raid followed the seizure of 73 cartons of nitrous oxide at Iyare Motor Park, Ajah–Epe expressway, a consignment intended for Benin City, Edo State. The driver of the vehicle moving the shipment, Amos Innocent was arrested while Victor Oyedeji was nabbed at the Lekki home where 13.2 kilograms of freshly produced Colos were recovered in addition to precursor chemicals.

“A notorious female drug dealer in Ibadan, Oyo state, Bunmi, 45, was on Wednesday 11th February arrested at her enclave in Hope Alakia area of the state capital. Recovered from her include: 1.189kg Colos, skunk; 320grams of methamphetamine; monetary exhibit of ₦2,975,000 and two cars: a Navy blue Toyota Matrix car and a Sky blue Toyota Matrix car with registration number,” it added.

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Dare-devil bandits have carried out another attack on Kakafu community in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting several residents during the latest incident.

According to a report by security reporter, Bakatsine, the attack occurred on Saturday night, barely a day after terrorists released a video showing about 176 kidnap victims from communities in the state languishing in camp.

Reports from local sources indicate that the latest incident happened at about 1:30 a.m., when the attackers stormed the community and abducted between three and four residents.

Details surrounding the attack remain unclear as at the time of filing this report, while security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the incident. Community members have expressed concern over the growing security challenges in parts of Kwara North, calling for urgent intervention by authorities.

PlatinumPost reports that Kwara North has witnessed a series of security breaches in recent months, with rural communities increasingly targeted by armed groups suspected to be bandits and terrorist elements operating along forest corridors linking parts of Niger and Kogi states.

Security analysts have warned that the movement of armed groups from neighbouring states, coupled with vast ungoverned forest areas, has contributed to the spread of kidnapping and violent attacks in previously calmer parts of Kwara.

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Properties worth millions of naira were lost on Saturday after a fire swept through the popular Singa Market in Kano.

It was learnt that the blaze started at a provision shop in the afternoon before rapidly spreading to other sections of the market.

Both traders and nearby residents were unable to control the fire as it intensified.

As of the time this report was filed, the cause of the incident had yet to be determined.

However, the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Abdullahi, confirmed the outbreak.

He said, “The fire outbreak started this evening at the Gidan Gashash area, and efforts are being made to put out the fire to prevent it from spreading further. The agency has already mobilized its personnel and vehicles to the market.

“As you know, lack of access roads within the market, as well as heavy human and vehicular movement, is affecting the movement of fire service vehicles.”

The incident is the second fire recorded in Kano in less than two weeks.

It will be recalled that on 2 February 2026, a fire razed three large shops at the same market, leading to heavy losses of goods and property valued at millions of naira.

A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, lamented the development, describing it as devastating.

He said on his X account, “I am truly devastated by the fire outbreak at Singa Market, one of the largest and most important commodity markets in the North, located in Kano. Reports indicate that the severe fire started in the afternoon, and eyewitnesses have described it as massive, fast-spreading, and still raging hours later.

“This unfortunate incident once again highlights the urgent need for authorities in Kano to comprehensively overhaul safety measures across our markets. My thoughts and prayers are with the traders and families affected by this tragic incident.”

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No fewer than three United States military aircraft touched down in Nigeria between Thursday and Friday.

According to a report by PUNCH, sources indicated that the planes arrived at military facilities in Borno and other states in the North-East.

Senior officers at the Defence Headquarters confirmed that the aircraft conveyed ammunition supplied to Nigeria by the American government.

The officers, who spoke separately with our correspondents, explained that the move formed part of US support to Nigeria’s campaign against insecurity.

“Following Nigeria-US bilateral talks on security, the American government will not only deploy soldiers but also provide necessary logistics, including ammunition, to fight the insurgents,” one of the officers who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

Another senior officer said the delivery was part of routine operational support, stressing that ammunition is usually replenished after military engagements.

“I know that recently US aircraft came to supply ammunition for our platforms, and that wasn’t the first time. So, what you are saying may be true, though I have not been officially briefed.

“We go for operations and use different calibres of ammunition, which need to be replaced.

“The US and the Nigerian government, under the coordination of the NSA, are working together to end insecurity in the country. So, we should expect more deployments of aircraft and troops,” he added.

The New York Times on Saturday reported that US military planes arrived in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Thursday night.

By Friday evening, the report said three aircraft were visible at the base, with equipment being offloaded from one of them.

“These initial flights are the vanguard of what will be a stream of C-17 transport flights into three main locations across Nigeria,” a US Department of Defense official told the newspaper.

An X account, @mobilisingniger, run by a user who identified as a counter-terrorism expert, also reported on Friday that a US Air Force C30J transport aircraft landed at the Kaduna International Airport after departing Ghana.

The post suggested that the Kaduna Depot could serve as a training centre for US personnel working with the Nigerian military.

“A US Air Force military transport aircraft C30J has landed at Kaduna International Airport after departing from Ghana earlier this (Friday) evening. The movement is fuelling speculation that US personnel may utilise the Kaduna Depot as a potential training hub in collaboration with the Nigerian military. This signals a potential deepening of US–Nigeria security engagement amid ongoing regional security challenges,” the post read.

Another X user, Brant Philip, who described himself as a tracker, said a “massive delivery of equipment” had taken place at the Maiduguri Airbase in Borno State.

“The US Air Force C-130J-30 cargo aircraft flew to northeast Nigeria today (Friday) from Accra, Ghana, following the same route as the two previous C-17A, a mass delivery of equipment seems to be ongoing,” he wrote.

As of the time of filing this report, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, had yet to respond to inquiries on the development.

US deploys military officers
The United States President, Donald Trump, in 2025 declared he would send military forces to Nigeria if the government failed to halt what he described as genocide against Christians.

Following the warning and Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern, the US carried out an airstrike on Islamic State fighters in Sokoto State on Christmas Day.

Both countries have since intensified security engagements.

Earlier reports indicated that about 200 US officers would be deployed to Nigeria.
The New York Times said the first batch of personnel had already arrived.

It noted that the move marked the start of the deployment of 200 American intelligence analysts, advisers and trainers to assist Nigeria’s armed forces in targeted counterterrorism operations, partly aimed at protecting Nigerian Christians.

The newspaper also reported that more aircraft carrying troops and equipment were expected to arrive over the weekend, with additional flights likely in the coming weeks.

(PUNCH)

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a mix of dust haze and sunny conditions across the country from Sunday to Tuesday.

In its weather outlook issued on Saturday in Abuja, the agency projected slight dust haze over parts of Borno, Jigawa, Katsina, Kano, Zamfara and Sokoto States on Sunday.

It added that the rest of the northern region would experience sunny weather throughout the forecast period.

“For the central region, sunny skies with few cloud patches are anticipated over the region throughout the forecast period.

“Sunny skies with patches of clouds are anticipated over the southern region,” it said.

It predicted prospects of isolated thunderstorms with light rains over parts of Abia, Imo, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Oyo, Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States later in the day.

According to the forecast, moderate dust haze with visibility values between 2km to 5km is anticipated over parts of Kano, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa and Borno States on Monday.

The agency envisaged the remaining parts of the North to be sunny and hazy throughout the forecast period.
“For the central region, sunny skies with a few patches of clouds are expected over the region during the forecast period.

“Cloudy skies with sunny intervals are anticipated over the southern region during morning hours. Later in the day, thunderstorms with moderate rains are anticipated over parts of Bayelsa, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Rivers and Cross Rivers States,” it said.

The agency predicted slight dust haze over the North throughout the forecast period on Tuesday.

It anticipated sunny skies in the central region with a few patches of clouds over the region throughout the forecast period.

NiMet predicted cloudy skies with sunny intervals over the southern region in the morning hours.

It predicted isolated thunderstorms with light rains over parts of Ondo, Edo, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States later in the day.

“Driving under rain should be with caution. Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.

“Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet. Visit our website www.nimet.gov.ng. Dust particles are in suspension over the Northern region; the public should take necessary precaution.

“People with Asthmatic health condition and other respiratory issues should be cautious of the present weather condition,” it said.

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that 11 people died in a fatal road crash along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway.

The Sector Commander of the FRSC in Enugu State, Mr Franklin Agbakoba, disclosed this to journalists in Enugu on Saturday following the incident, which involved two vehicles.

Agbakoba said, “The accident happened at about 6:46 p.m. today, Saturday, at a location adjacent to the FRSC Ozalla Unit Command in the expressway.”

He said the deceased comprised 10 males and one female.

“A total of 36 persons, which included 27 males and nine female, got involved in the collision between a commercial Toyota Coaster Bus and an articulated Mercedes Benz trailer this evening in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

“Apart from those that unfortunately lost their lives due to the accident; seven persons, which included three males and four female, were injured in the accident.

“The injured victims have been taken to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla for medical attention.

“The dead victims were taken to the UNTH Morgue,” he said.

The sector commander noted that FRSC operatives had removed all obstructions caused by the crash, adding: “we have restored free flow of vehicular traffic on the accident axis of the expressway.”

Agbakoba added that preliminary findings pointed to Route Traffic Violation (RTV) and Loss of Control (LOC) as likely causes of the accident.

He commended officers and marshals of the FRSC Ozalla Unit Command for their quick response at the scene, rescue efforts, and the evacuation of the injured to UNTH for treatment, as well as clearing the road.

“Further information on the accident will be made known to the public soon,” he said.

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Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has removed Engr. Buba Galadima from his position as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic.

The development was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Following the decision, the governor approved the appointment of the Emir of Gaya,  Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as the new chairman of the institution’s governing council.

According to the statement, Galadima’s removal was part of a restructuring exercise aimed at aligning the institution with the administration’s Kano First Agenda.

”Although the tenure of the Governing Council is for a period of three years, the appointment of the Chairman was terminated before expiration due to the ongoing reforms for optimal performance of the Polytechnic.”

The statement added that the governor commended Galadima for his contributions while in office.

”Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Engr. Buba Galadima for the services he rendered to the institution during his tenure as Chairman of the Governing Council.

”The Governor urged the newly appointed Chairman, the Emir of Gaya, to bring his wealth of experience, leadership and commitment to bear in repositioning Kano State Polytechnic for greater academic and administrative excellence.”

Galadima, a close associate of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, is a prominent figure in the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP).

In an interview with Trust TV shortly before Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress, Galadima had warned the governor against going against Kwankwaso.

‘They know that apart from God, the person who made them is Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Each and every one of them. I am sure if they sleep, if they go to bed, they cannot sleep. Because it was Kwankwaso single-handedly that made them chairmen and legislators. But God did not abandon him.”

”God made Abba Kabir Yusuf governor of Kano State. But anything that happens in this world, there is a reason. There is a ladder. Kwankwaso is that ladder. To all elected NNPP people in Kano, even PDP, even APC.

“There is no single elected APC person in Kano that did not go through the Kwankwaso school of politics. If there is, tell me. Starting from Ganduje, Abdullahi Abbas, Barau Jibrin, Kawu Sumaila, who are they? All of them were Kwankwaso’s boys.”

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Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, has said he sometimes chooses to appear “weak” in order to maintain peace and stability in the state.

The governor made the remark on Friday in Lagos while receiving the 2025 Man of the Year award presented by New Telegraph.

In his speech, which focused on the burdens of leadership, the impact of political disputes, and the importance of reconciliation, Fubara dedicated the honour to Nyesom Wike, his predecessor and current minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it. I also dedicate this award to somebody who discovered me, not minding the situation — the honourable minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike,” he said.

“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness. Today is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know that for believing in me, you have a share of special pain.

“Some people have described these pains as weakness, while others say it is being strong. But I choose to be weak for a lot of reasons, weak because I want peace. Weak because we need to survive.

“Weak because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation. Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”

Fubara also thanked his family and the people of Rivers State for their patience and maturity during the political crisis in the state.

Last week, President Bola Tinubu intervened to broker peace between the governor and the Rivers State House of Assembly after months of political tension, threats of impeachment, and divisions within the legislature.

Most members of the assembly are said to be allies of the FCT minister.
Wike had recently campaigned against Fubara’s re-election bid, accusing the governor of failing to honour a peace agreement both men signed before Tinubu lifted the emergency rule in the state.

Earlier in the week, the FCT minister expressed confidence that the prolonged dispute between the executive and the legislature would be permanently resolved following the president’s intervention.

In January, it was reported that the peace conditions proposed by Wike before the suspension of the emergency rule included a demand that Fubara reinstate Sergeant Awuse, the traditional ruler of the Emohua kingdom, as chairman of the state’s council of traditional rulers.

Fubara had removed Awuse, a known ally of Wike, in June 2024 and replaced him with Chike Worlu Wodo.

Wike also requested the appointment of new commissioners.

On Thursday, Fubara dissolved the state executive council.

A day later, the governor forwarded a list of new commissioner nominees to the state assembly for screening and confirmation.

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