Eyo Festival 2025: Tinubu Carries Sacred Staff as Lagos Hosts Historic Cultural Carnival After Eight Years

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday, December 27, attended the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where he carried the sacred opambata staff, a key symbol of the ancient carnival. Dressed in traditional white regalia, the president joined thousands of revellers as Lagos revived the historic festival for the first time in eight years. Tinubu described the Eyo Festival as a powerful expression of Lagos’ cultural identity and tourism potential, urging participants to celebrate peacefully while preserving the state’s rich heritage during the peak ‘Detty December’ season.

Why the Chief Justice of Nigeria Must End Nepotism and Abuse of Power in Judicial Appointments

In this hard-hitting opinion piece, human rights lawyer Chidi Anselm Odinkalu argues that Nigeria’s judicial appointment process has been captured by nepotism, favoritism, and abuse of power. Citing alleged insider advantages, opaque screening processes, and the growing trend of judicial “hereditary succession,” Odinkalu warns that public trust in the judiciary is at risk. He calls on the Chief Justice of Nigeria to urgently reform the system by publishing candidates’ scores and restoring transparency to judicial appointments, especially in the ongoing Federal High Court selection process.

Lady Pens Emotional Tribute as Popular Personal Shopper Aunty Esther Reportedly Loses Battle to Cancer

An emotional outpouring has flooded social media following reports of the death of popular Nigerian personal shopper and internet personality, Aunty Esther, after a prolonged battle with cancer. A Nigerian lady shared a heartfelt tribute on X, recounting how the late entrepreneur hustled tirelessly under harsh conditions to make ends meet. The news has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians mourning her resilience, work ethic, and dedication, while also debating the role of faith and medical decisions in her final days.

Fresh Explosion Rocks Zamfara State, Kills at Least Nine Along Dansadau Road

No fewer than nine people have reportedly been killed following a fresh explosion along the Dansadau Road in Zamfara State, marking the second such incident in the area within one week. The blast occurred around Mai Aya Aya before the Kwankelai junction on the old Danguibi Road, near Ruwan Dawa village and Magamin Maitarko. Details surrounding the cause of the explosion remain unclear, but the incident has heightened fears over growing insecurity in northern Nigeria, particularly in Zamfara, which has witnessed repeated violent attacks and explosions in recent times.

Super Eagles of Nigeria secure their place in the AFCON Round of 16 after defeating Tunisia 3 - 2

Nigerian Military Kills 438 Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters in Seven Months, Seizes 300 Starlink Devices

The Nigerian military says its troops under Operation Hadin Kai killed 438 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters during counter-terrorism operations conducted between May and December 2025 in Borno State. The Theatre Commander, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, also announced the recovery of 254 assorted weapons, seizure of 300 Starlink communication devices, and rescue of 366 civilians from insurgent-held areas. He added that 881 insurgents and their families surrendered within the period. While the military insists the operations show progress, residents continue to report attacks across the North-East, with independent verification of official claims remaining difficult due to restricted access to conflict zones.

FG GRADUATES OVER 7,000 FOREST GUARDS, SET FOR IMMEDIATE DEPLOYMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

Nigerian Actress and Producer Allwell Ademola Dies at 43, Nollywood Colleagues Mourn Sudden Loss

Nollywood actress, producer, and filmmaker Allwell Ademola has died at the age of 43, sparking widespread grief across Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Reports say the versatile Yoruba film star suffered a heart attack at her residence and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Colleagues including Faithia Williams, Mide Martins, and Damola Olatunji expressed shock and sorrow on social media, while others struggled to accept the news. Born in Lagos in 1983, Ademola was the granddaughter of Nigeria’s first Chief Justice, Justice Adetokunbo Ademola. She began her career as a child actor on NTA’s Animal Games, rose to prominence in Yoruba Nollywood, and was also an accomplished singer and band leader.

Eyo Masquerades Assault Residents During 2025 Lagos Festival, Videos Spark Social Media Outrage

The 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos turned violent as videos circulated online showing Eyo masquerades assaulting residents with staves during street processions. One clip showed four men in traditional white regalia attacking a man, while another captured residents throwing objects at masquerades. Social media users condemned the incidents, questioning the excessive use of force and lack of crowd control. Some speculated the victim may have breached traditional taboos, but others criticized the response as extreme. The festival, the first since 2017, had earlier welcomed dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Tinubu Announces Order of 4 US Attack Helicopters, Highlights State and Community Policing in Security Reforms to CAN Leaders

President Bola Tinubu revealed that his administration has ordered four attack helicopters from the United States to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaking to Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leaders, he acknowledged delays in military hardware procurement but reassured that ongoing reforms, including the establishment of state and community policing, will yield results. Tinubu emphasized the need for religious leaders’ cooperation, defended the government’s handling of schoolchildren abductions, and confirmed engagement with Turkey for additional security support. CAN pledged its backing, urging direct engagement through its local structures nationwide.

Three Casualties After Lagos High-Rise Fire

Three bodies have been recovered three days after the fire at the Great Nigeria Insurance building on Martin Street, Lagos Island.

According to a casualty report released by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, the deceased include one adult female and two males, who were recovered from the collapsed structure.

Eight males, including a firefighter, sustained varying degrees of injuries. They were released after treatment at the hospital.

Additionally, three males and two females with minor injuries who received first aid at the scene of the fire incident were subsequently released.

Search and Rescue efforts involving LASEMA Response Teams, NEMA, Red Cross and LASG Fire and Rescue Service are still ongoing, to locate other reportedly trapped victims in the affected building.

Senator Ali Ndume Urges US-Nigeria Military Collaboration Against Boko Haram and ISWAP in North-East

Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to expand US-led military cooperation to Nigeria’s insurgency-hit North-East. Speaking after recent airstrikes against ISIS cells in Sokoto State, Ndume urged similar operations in Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds, including Lake Chad, Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa Forest. He emphasized the need for deeper collaboration through intelligence sharing, training, and deployment of attack helicopters, while stressing that budgeted defence funds must be transparently and effectively used. Ndume also condemned a recent mosque attack in Gamboru, highlighting that terrorists target communities indiscriminately, regardless of religion.

Judy Austin Shares Tummy Pains After Christmas Feasting Amid Recent Coven Witch Controversy

Nollywood actress Judy Austin opened up about experiencing tummy pains after indulging in festive Christmas meals, joking that two days of overeating seemed to undo months of calorie burning. The playful post comes shortly after she made headlines for publicly calling out an alleged coven witch and her members for allegedly targeting her and her children. Fans responded with a mix of humor and concern, as many encouraged her to enjoy her meals despite the discomfort. Austin’s latest update highlights her ability to balance lighthearted personal content with her ongoing public controversies.

Tiwa Savage Sparks Reactions Online with Revealing Outfit During Performance in Ghana

Nigerian music superstar Tiwa Savage faced mixed reactions from fans after performing in Ghana while wearing a short black gown with an open chest. A video of her energetic performance surfaced online, prompting some viewers to criticize the outfit as inappropriate and uncomfortable to watch, while others defended her choice. Fans and social media users debated the stylist’s role and Tiwa’s wardrobe decisions, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny of the Afrobeats queen’s fashion choices. Despite the controversy, Tiwa Savage continues to impress with her stage presence and charisma.

After Tinubu, I Am the Most Ab¥sed Politician in Nigeria — Wike Sets January 2026 Timeline for Rivers Politics

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described himself as the most ab¥sed politician in Nigeria after President Bola Tinubu, while declaring that political activities in Rivers State will officially begin in January 2026.

He spoke on Saturday at a thanksgiving service organised by former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, in Ochiba community, Ahoada East Local Government Area.

The former Rivers State governor reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Tinubu, stressing that he does not renege on agreements and remains committed to political decisions taken in good faith. He also thanked the people of Ahoada East and Ahoada West for their steadfast support over the years.

Recalling the 2023 general elections, Wike praised residents for standing firm in support of Tinubu at a time many politicians were uncertain, noting that their resolve helped strengthen the President’s mandate in Rivers State.

He appeared to criticise politicians who recently aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting their support came too late. Wike emphasised the importance of honouring political agreements, warning that his camp would not be taken for granted as the next political cycle approaches. He added that frequent att@cks against him stem from his insistence on accountability and adherence to agreements, alleging that some politicians abuse him for personal gain.

Earlier, Chibudom Nwuche commended Wike for his developmental contributions to the Ekpeye Kingdom, particularly the elevation of several traditional stools during his tenure as governor. He said Wike’s leadership positively impacted the people, earning him enduring loyalty across the area.

JUST IN: The Eyo festival, popularly known as the Adamu Orisha Play, kicked off with vibrant processions as residents, visitors, and spectators poured into Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, on Saturday for the 2025 edition.

MOVING OUT: FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the bureau has finalized plans to permanently close the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building, ending years of debate over the agency's deteriorating headquarters.

The FBI HQ will relocate most of its staff to the existing Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.

Caroline Leavitt becomes the first pregnant White House press secretary in U.S. history

The 28-year-old White House press secretary is expecting her second child with her 60-year-old husband, Nicholas Riccio.

She shared a photo posing in front of a Christmas tree in a white sweater dress, holding her baby bump.

Leavitt and her husband are already parents to an 18-month-old son, Nico. A senior White House official told Fox News that Leavitt will remain in her role as press secretary, which makes her the first pregnant White House press secretary in U.S. history.

Our Leaders Are Human Beings”: Queen Zaynab’s Aide Speaks as Benue Community Celebrates SGF George Akume’s Marriage

David Adeoye, media aide to Queen Zaynab Otiti-Obanor, has reacted to the recent marriage between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the former Ooni of Ife’s queen. According to Adeoye, the people of Benue State have warmly welcomed the union, describing it as a new chapter marked by personal peace and stability after Akume reportedly lived separately from his former spouse for years. Community leaders, youth groups, and elders praised Akume’s discretion and composure, noting that leadership thrives when those in office find balance and peace in their personal lives.

Stella Dimoko Korkus Debunks Rumours That Late Singer Mohbad’s Wife Welcomed a Baby Girl

Popular celebrity blogger Stella Dimoko Korkus has dismissed viral rumours claiming that Omowunmi, the widow of late Nigerian singer Mohbad, recently gave birth to a baby girl. The speculation sparked widespread reactions online, with fans expressing curiosity and concern. Addressing the claims, Stella stated that thorough checks confirmed the story was false and urged Nigerians to ignore the misinformation, stressing that the rumour was fabricated by individuals seeking attention and personal gain.