Gov. Ododo Unveils Kogi-Hunan FTZ with $500m FDI, 50,000 Jobs Projection

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has led Chinese and international partners to unveil the Ajaokuta Economic City, a new Free Trade Zone (FTZ) projected to attract $500 million in annual foreign direct investment and create 50,000 jobs.

Speaking at the stakeholders’ engagement held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, Governor Ododo said the project marks a new chapter in Kogi’s industrial growth.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting timely approval and supporting the initiative.

The Governor assured investors of a strong security framework for the FTZ and emphasized the role of higher institutions in the state in providing the required skilled manpower.

“Today, we plant the seed of generational prosperity. Kogi State is the beating heart of Nigeria. We don’t talk. We do,” he said.

Court Enforces Eviction at Abuja Cubana Lounge, Hands Property to Collins Onwuzulike After Legal Battle

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has executed an eviction order on the former Cubana Lounge property in Wuse II, returning full possession to businessman Collins Onwuzulike after months of legal disputes with socialite Obi Cubana. The enforcement—marked by tense moments involving alleged thugs and the abrupt disappearance of police escorts—saw court sheriffs dismantle equipment and secure the building for the new owner. The ownership dispute dates back to a ₦2 billion purchase concluded in 2024, which conflicting court orders had previously stalled. With the restraining order from a Bwari court now expired, bailiffs officially handed the property’s keys to Onwuzulike’s legal team, ending the long-running battle over the Abuja hotspot.

BREAKING: The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Gwarinpa, Abuja, has directed that a ₦40 billion defamation lawsuit be served on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, through substituted means.

Lagos Seals Shoprite Ikeja Over Tax Default as LIRS Warns Against Tampering With Seal

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has shut down the Shoprite outlet at Ikeja City Mall over alleged refusal to comply with mandatory tax obligations. A notice placed at the entrance stated that Shoprite violated Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2011, an offence punishable by fines and imprisonment. LIRS also warned that breaking its seal without approval is a criminal act. The incident adds to the ongoing struggles of Shoprite’s Nigerian operations under Ketron Investment Limited, which has faced multiple store closures across Abuja, Kano, Ilorin, and Ibadan amid worsening economic conditions and dwindling product availability nationwide.

COAS DECORATES ARMY SPOKESPERSON AS COLONEL …Reaffirms Public Trust as a Strategic Enabler for Military Operations

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal, on 9 December 2025, decorated the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel in recognition of her steadfast dedication and exemplary service to the Nigerian Army.

At a brief ceremony held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, the COAS commended Colonel Anele’s professionalism and unwavering commitment, charging the Directorate of Army Public Relations to sustain its efforts in projecting the Nigerian Army’s image responsibly and credibly.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS underscored the indispensable role of public trust in the success of military operations. He urged the Directorate of Army Public Relations to strengthen transparent, accountableand timely communication on the activities of the Nigerian Army, stressing that effective strategic communication remains vital in bolstering national confidence in the Armed Forces.

The Army Chief further tasked the Acting Director to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and loyalty, while mentoring her subordinates to enhance the overall effectiveness and capacity of the Directorate.

In her vote of thanks, Colonel Appolonia Anele expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for their visionary leadership, purposeful guidance and mentorship, which she described as instrumental to her career advancement.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including former Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd) mni; Colonel Mustapha Anka (Rtd) mni, senior officers serving and retired; alongside family members, friends and well-wishers.

NIGERIA–INDIA ADVANCES DEFENCE PARTNERSHIP AS INDIAN DEFENCE ADVISER VISIT COAS

The strategic defence partnership between Nigeria and India received a significant boost on 9 December 2025 when the Indian Defence Adviser to Nigeria, Colonel Manoj Singh, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja. The visit reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to strengthening bilateral military cooperation and advancing shared security interests.

Colonel Singh while making his remarks commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in tackling security challenges nationwide and expressed appreciation for the warm reception. He emphasized India’s willingness to broaden defence cooperation, expand training opportunities for Nigerian Army personnel and deepen technical exchanges in critical areas of mutual benefit.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu stressed the importance of maintaining an enduring partnership with the Indian Armed Forces. He described India’s long-standing support in military training, capacity building and defence development as invaluable, noting the need to further enhance collaboration in counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing, equipment support and professional military education.

The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs to the Defence Adviser by the COAS as a symbol of friendship and continued cooperation. Colonel Singh also signed the visitors’ book and a group photograph.

APPOLONIA ANELE
Colonel
Acting Director Army Public Relations
9 December, 2025

NIGERIA POLICE FORCE CONDUCTS PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING ON PREVENTING THE RECRUITMENT AND USE OF CHILDREN IN ARMED CONFLICT

The Nigeria Police Force has conducted a week-long Pre-Deployment Training on Preventing the Recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflict held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja. The programme was declared open by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, represented by AIG Aminu Baba Raji, AIG Training and Development and fully equipped officers with child-sensitive policing during internal security operations.

The programme was delivered in partnership with the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, featuring international facilitators and certified Nigeria Police Trainers-of-Trainers. Officers were trained to detect and prevent child recruitment and to recognize that children associated with armed groups are primarily victims deserving confidentiality, empathy, and protection.

In his remarks, the IGP stressed that children remain among the most vulnerable in situations of violence and that their recruitment by armed actors whether as fighters, spies, or in other roles, is a grave violation of their rights and a threat to national security. He emphasized the need for officers deployed to conflict-affected areas to identify these risks and respond with professionalism, sensitivity, and gender-responsive approaches.

The training further strengthened existing Nigeria Police child-protection initiatives such as the Safer Schools Programme and POCACOV. A total of 25 officers were certified as ready for deployment to conflict-affected areas.

IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation to the organizers for their support and assured that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding human rights and enhancing child-protection capacity through continuous training and strong partnerships.

CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
December 9, 2025

ECOWAS Declares Regional State of Emergency as Coups and Instability Surge in West Africa

ECOWAS has declared a regional state of emergency following a spike in coups, attempted mutinies, and worsening insecurity across West Africa. ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray announced the decision during the 55th Mediation and Security Council meeting in Abuja, stressing the urgent need for coordinated action to protect democracy and stability. The emergency move comes amid rising political tensions and security breakdowns in several member states, with further operational directives expected after ongoing deliberations.


#ECOWAS #WestAfricaCrisis #RegionalSecurity

Wike Accused as Police Teargas Abuja Contractors Protesting ₦5.2bn Unpaid Debts

Police officers allegedly acting on the orders of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike tear-gassed protesting contractors who barricaded his office over ₦5.2 billion in unpaid contract funds. The contractors say all projects—from drain clearing to medical procurement—were completed, inspected, verified, and approved, yet Wike refused to sign off on payments for nearly two years. The prolonged debt has allegedly caused deaths, medical trauma, loan defaults, and family breakdowns among contractors. Despite appeals to the Minister, the Presidency, and the National Assembly, the group claims nothing has changed.

#Wike

#FCTContractors

#PoliceBrutality

Happening: High-level Inter Agencies Seminar Underway In Abuja To Commemorate International Anti-corruption Day 2025, With A Commitment To Involving The Youth In Governance And Fighting Against Corruption.

Yusuf Dantalle re-elected as IPAC national chair

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has re-elected Yusuf Dantalle as its national chairman.

Dantalle was re-elected for another two-year term on Monday in Abuja.

Dantalle is the national chairperson of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

He reclaimed the IPAC chairmanship unanimously after Kenneth Udeze of the Action Alliance, his only rival, withdrew from the contest.

Chaos in Abuja as Fans Throw Sachet Water and Bottles at Blaqbonez on Stage

Nigerian rapper Blaqbonez experienced a tense moment during a performance in Abuja when parts of the audience threw sachet water and plastic bottles at him as he approached the stage. Security operatives quickly intervened, forming a shield around the rapper and restoring calm. The reason behind the sudden hostility remains unclear, but the incident sparked mixed reactions online, with fans speculating about possible rival fan groups and previous industry controversies.

BREAKING: The Federal Government has ordered ministries, departments, and agencies to carry over 70 per cent of their 2025 capital budget into the 2026 fiscal year as the administration moves to prioritise the completion of existing projects and contain spending pressures in the face of weak revenues.

This directive is contained in the 2026 Abridged Budget Call Circular issued by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and circulated to all ministers, service chiefs, heads of agencies and top government officials in Abuja.

JUST IN: The Federal Government has directed that the Keffi Bridge be opened for vehicular movement. Works Minister Dave Umahi issued the directive during an inspection of the Mararaba–Keffi–Abuja road

Kano Businessman Confronts Max Air After Business-Class Seats Allegedly Reassigned to ‘Influential Figures’

A Max Air flight from Abuja to Kano was delayed after a businessman, Mikai’l, confronted airline staff for allegedly reallocating his paid Business Class seats to influential passengers. Despite purchasing two adult and two infant Business Class tickets, he discovered the aircraft had been changed to an all-economy configuration. The passenger insisted the airline improperly reassigned his original front-row seats to VIPs. The situation escalated when the station manager attempted to move him, prompting security involvement until lawmakers intervened. Max Air later admitted the aircraft change caused inconvenience and said messages notifying passengers were not received by some affected customers.

EFCC Seals Timipre Sylva’s Abuja Home; Aide Condemns Raid as Unlawful and Politically Motivated

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sealed the Maitama residence of former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva, a move his aide Julius Bokoru described as illegal, vindictive, and politically driven. Bokoru criticised the EFCC for acting without a warrant or due process, alleging harassment of Sylva’s family and aides who remain detained. He insisted President Tinubu had no role in the incident, attributing the action to local political rivalry. The EFCC had earlier declared Sylva wanted over an alleged $14.8 million fraud.

FG Approves Kogi-Hunan Free Trade Zone

… As Stakeholders Set for Abuja Briefing

The Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone, paving the way for the takeoff of the Ajaokuta Economic City as the Kogi State Government begins preparations for a major stakeholders’ briefing in Abuja.

The initiative follows the strategic partnership between the Kogi state government led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the Zhuzhou Municipal Government of Hunan Province, China, under the Kogi–Hunan Sister Province Relationship.

According to the invitation to the official media briefing by Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and Chief Executive Officer of the Kogi State Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnership Agency (KSIPPA), Aliyu Inda Salami, government agencies, investors and development partners will be briefed on the project framework, investment opportunities and next steps at the event in Abuja this Tuesday.
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Kwankwaso Hails Gov Yusuf’s Transformative Achievements in Kano

The National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed satisfaction over the outstanding performance and infrastructural transformation being recorded under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Kwankwaso stated this on Sunday night when he received Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on a courtesy visit at his residence in Abuja, where the governor formally presented his recent national leadership award.

The Kwankwasiyya leader said the award bestowed on Governor Yusuf was a testament to good governance and social economic growth being impacted on the good people of Kano.

Senator Kwankwaso expressed joy over the governor’s achievement, and applauded his remarkable development through purposeful leadership.

He also offered prayers and goodwill to the governor, urging him to sustain the tempo of public service reforms and people-oriented development.

During the meeting, the governor presented the Distinguished Award for Visionary Leadership and Public Service Sector Reform, which was conferred on him at the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) held earlier in Abuja.

Court Adjourns Hearing on Nnamdi Kanu’s Request for Transfer From Sokoto Prison to January 27

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of Nnamdi Kanu’s application seeking his transfer from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a facility nearer to the FCT. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to January 27, 2026, directing that the Correctional Service and prosecution be notified. Kanu, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges, argues that his distant detention location hinders effective legal consultation and obstructs his appeal process. His legal team maintains that relocating him to Kuje, Keffi, or any facility within the court’s jurisdiction is essential for fair defence.

NIGERIA CONDEMNS ATTEMPTED UNCONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF BENIN

The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received with grave concern and unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted forcible seizure of power in our friendly neighbour and brotherly nation, the Republic of Benin in the early hours of Sunday 7th December, 2025.

This act of destabilization represents a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to peaceful political transitions. Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace.

We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President. Their dedication ensured that the unfortunate attempt to subvert democracy was decisively repelled.

Nigeria reiterates its strong commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as fundamental pillars for peace, development and regional stability. Unconstitutional changes of government are an unacceptable and retrogressive step that threatens the hard-earned democratic gains and socio-economic progress of our sub-region.

As a steadfast partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria calls on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and in reaffirming our shared commitment to the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.

The Federal Government of Nigeria reassures the Government of the Republic of Benin of its full support and continued cooperation as we work together, as brothers and partners, to deepen democracy and ensure lasting peace and prosperity for our peoples and the entire West African region.

Signed:

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Sunday, 7th December, 2025