US special forces have arrived in the United Kingdom as Washington moves to intercept a sanctioned oil tanker accused of evading the Trump administration’s blockade on Venezuelan crude and racing toward Russia.

Cargo aircraft carrying helicopters and personnel landed at RAF Fairford, as US and allied forces stage for a possible high-risk boarding operation against the tanker Marinera, formerly known as Bella 1.

The vessel, described by US officials as part of a “shadow fleet” used to bypass international sanctions, is believed to be operating under a Russian flag in the North Atlantic, roughly 500 miles west of Ireland, en route to Russia.

Troops from America’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known as the Night Stalkers, have reportedly deployed Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters capable of fast-roping commandos onto large vessels. Three V-22 Ospreys operating out of RAF Mildenhall have also joined the mission, alongside surveillance aircraft and refuelling jets.

US and UK military activity intensified after the tanker was tracked resurfacing at sea, having previously slipped away from US forces in the Caribbean following Donald Trump’s announcement of a “total and complete blockade” on Venezuelan oil exports.

The tanker is alleged to be linked to Iran and accused of helping sanctioned regimes, including those of Vladimir Putin and Nicolás Maduro, continue oil trading despite restrictions. During the pursuit, the crew reportedly painted a Russian flag on the hull and later re-registered the ship under a new name in Russia.

Defence sources said the build-up at RAF Fairford indicates preparations for a hostile boarding, while naval patrol aircraft continue to monitor the tanker’s movements.

US officials told American media that the preference is to seize the tanker rather than sink it, mirroring a helicopter-borne raid carried out last month on another sanctioned vessel. A decision on whether to proceed with the operation is expected within days.

Air Peace to Refund Stranded Lagos–Jamaica Passengers Following NCAA Intervention

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced that Air Peace has agreed to refund passengers affected by the Lagos–Jamaica travel disruption that left several stranded and deported from Barbados.

Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, explained that the issue began during passenger profiling at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where some travelers lacked the required documents for the Lagos–Antigua–Jamaica flight. While 67 passengers were allowed entry into Jamaica, 25 were stopped by immigration for lacking onward tickets, proof of funds, or valid accommodation details.

Air Peace offered refunds initially, but passengers opted to travel to Barbados, a visa-free destination, before returning to Nigeria. Achimugu said the NCAA mediated the dispute, and the airline agreed to issue refunds as a goodwill gesture, while regulatory review and potential sanctions remain ongoing.

The resolution aims to protect the aviation industry’s reputation while ensuring passengers’ rights are upheld.

Geregu Power Ownership Changes: Femi Otedola Exits, Ma’am Energy Takes Control, Abdulaziz Yari Appointed Chairman

Geregu Power has officially confirmed the sale of billionaire Femi Otedola’s controlling stake to Ma’am Energy Limited, signaling a major shift in the company’s leadership. The transaction involved 95% of Amperion Power’s shares—the vehicle through which Otedola held his stake—estimated at $750 million. Following the ownership change, Otedola, along with CEO Akin Akinfemiwa, deputy CEO Julius Omodayo Owotuga, and several non-executive directors, resigned from the board.

Ma’am Energy, an Abuja-based energy solutions provider operating across power generation, oil and gas exploration, refining, and energy trading, is now the controlling entity. Four individuals hold significant control over the company: Abdulkarim Tsafe, Jari Jafar, Abdulaziz Yari, and Abdulaziz Ahmad, each with a 25% stake.

Senator Abdulaziz Yari, son of the former Zamfara governor, has been appointed chairman of Geregu Power. Yari has an extensive political and educational background, including leadership and change certification from the London School of Economics and a master’s degree in Public Administration, Finance, and Investment Management from the University of Salford.

The new board also includes seasoned professionals across finance, energy, and corporate management:

Abdulkadeer Njiddah – Non-executive director, accounting and auditing expert

Usman Mohammed – Independent non-executive director, former MD of Transmission Company of Nigeria

Mohammed Jaafaru – Independent non-executive director, COO of Advance Link Petroleum

Neka Adogu – Independent non-executive director, banking and wealth management expert

Mahmud Magaji – Independent non-executive director, Senior Advocate of Nigeria with expertise in criminal law, aviation, and energy sector disputes


This leadership overhaul comes after Otedola’s exit and marks a new phase for Geregu Power as Ma’am Energy assumes operational control and strategic direction.

Dangote Refinery Temporarily Offline for Maintenance, Eyes 700,000 bpd Output in 2026 to Boost Nigeria’s Fuel Self-Sufficiency

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has commenced planned maintenance on its core petrol-producing units, temporarily pausing full crude processing. The move targets increased operational stability and a ramp-up in crude distillation capacity from 650,000 to 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) by early 2026, solidifying the refinery’s status as the world’s largest single-train facility.

The maintenance includes taking the residue fluid catalytic cracker (RFCC) and crude distillation unit (CDU) offline, while secondary units such as the hydrocracker and reformer continue limited production of diesel, aviation fuel, and petrol. Since starting operations, the refinery has cut Nigeria’s petrol imports by over 60%, easing foreign exchange pressure and reducing reliance on global supply.

The upgrade is seen as a strategic de-bottlenecking effort, aimed at enhancing long-term refining efficiency and regional market influence. Analysts note that successful capacity ramp-up will reinforce Nigeria’s role as Africa’s refining hub and further reduce dependence on imported fuel, while ensuring adequate supply during the maintenance period.

LPG Marketers Accuse Dangote Refinery of Blocking Gas Loading for Over One Month After Full Payment, Allege Product Diversion, Preferential Pricing and Financial Losses

Some Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) marketers have accused the Dangote Refinery of deliberately frustrating their operations by preventing them from loading LPG products more than a month after full payment was made. The aggrieved marketers told SaharaReporters that despite settling proforma invoices and meeting all financial obligations, access to the Dangote gantry has remained blocked, leaving many traders in severe financial distress. Several marketers said they borrowed heavily from banks to fund their allocations and are now burdened with high interest costs due to prolonged delays.

The marketers further alleged that LPG already paid for is being diverted by the refinery for the production of polypropylene, while independent traders are sidelined. They also criticised what they described as an inefficient and opaque loading system, claiming FAN tickets take weeks to process and that traders are restricted to loading only one truck every two weeks, often requiring insider connections. Additional complaints include alleged preferential pricing for consortium members, uncompetitive margins for independent marketers, the sale of Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) in US dollars, and pricing structures that make profitability nearly impossible for traders relying on bank loans.

Responding to the allegations, Dangote Group’s Chief Communications Officer, Tony Chiejina, dismissed the criticisms, stating that the refinery’s impact would become clearer over time and highlighting Nigeria’s improved fuel availability during festive periods. He also hinted at what he described as an impending “big revolution” in LPG, urging critics to be patient as the refinery’s long-term benefits unfold.

Air Peace CEO Warns New Tax Law Could Push Nigerian Domestic Flight Fares to ₦1 Million

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema has raised alarms over Nigeria’s new tax provisions, warning they could push domestic flight fares beyond ₦1 million and threaten airline operations. Speaking on ARISE NEWS, Onyema explained that cumulative levies—including VAT on aircraft and spare parts, and NCAA charges—are straining airlines’ finances, with only a fraction of ticket revenue reaching operators. He called for urgent government intervention to prevent sector collapse, stressing that implementing the new tax framework could force airlines to pass high costs to passengers, potentially crippling Nigeria’s aviation industry and impacting the wider economy.

Air Peace Chairman Defends Christmas Airfares, Says Nigerian Airlines Unfairly Demonised Over Southeast Flight Costs

The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has rejected claims that Nigerian airlines exploited passengers with high airfares during the Christmas season, insisting that entry fares still start from ₦150,000. Speaking amid public outrage and regulatory scrutiny, Onyema said airlines are being unfairly accused of price fixing, especially on Southeast routes where return flights are often nearly empty. He explained that high operational costs, wet-lease charges, taxes, and demand-driven pricing account for fare differences, stressing that most of the ticket revenue does not go directly to airlines. Onyema urged government agencies and the public to stop scapegoating airlines, describing the criticism as unfair and damaging to the aviation sector.

Air Peace Flight Grounded After Conveyor Belt Damages Engine Cover, Disrupts Operations On Nine Routes — NCAA

Operations on an Air Peace flight were severely disrupted after a ground handler’s conveyor belt struck and damaged the aircraft’s engine cover while passengers were already on board, forcing an unscheduled deboarding and widespread delays. The incident, confirmed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, rendered the aircraft unsafe to continue operations. The affected plane, a newly acquired Embraer E2 jet, had been scheduled to operate nine sectors and was fully booked until January 15, 2026, meaning all passengers on those routes faced delays or cancellations. Achimugu explained that despite the damage being caused by a third-party service provider, airlines often bear passenger anger, financial losses, regulatory sanctions, refund obligations, and costly foreign repairs. He stressed the need for stricter regulation and accountability for ground handling services, transparency in informing passengers about the true causes of disruptions, and stronger sanctions against negligent service providers to protect airlines and restore confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Nigerian Air Force Confirms C-130 Aircraft Detained In Burkina Faso Has Safely Arrived Portugal For Maintenance

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, earlier detained in Burkina Faso over alleged airspace violations, has safely arrived in Lisbon, Portugal, for scheduled depot maintenance. According to NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft completed a ferry flight on December 26, 2025, transiting through Banjul and Casablanca in line with approved flight plans and aviation safety procedures. He noted that the aircraft and crew arrived without incident and remain in high spirits. The detention, which lasted about 10 days, was resolved following diplomatic engagements led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, including talks with Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré, paving the way for the aircraft’s release and onward journey.

Five Killed as Helicopter Crashes on Mount Kilimanjaro During Medical Evacuation Mission

At least five people have been confirmed dead following a tragic helicopter crash on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania during a medical evacuation operation. The accident occurred on Wednesday evening along one of the mountain’s most popular climbing routes, as the aircraft attempted to rescue stranded patients on Africa’s highest peak.

According to Tanzanian police, the victims included two foreign nationals who had already been picked up during the medical evacuation, as well as a local doctor, a tour guide and the helicopter’s pilot. The aircraft reportedly crashed between Barafu Camp and Kibo Summit at an altitude exceeding 4,000 metres (about 13,100 feet), a notoriously challenging zone due to harsh weather conditions and thin air.

Kilimanjaro regional police commander, Simon Maigwa, disclosed that the helicopter belonged to Kilimanjaro Aviation, a company known for providing medical evacuation and other aviation services in the region. He noted that the company had yet to issue an official statement on the incident at the time of reporting.

Authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the crash, but investigations are expected to determine whether weather conditions, technical failure or other factors played a role. The incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with high-altitude rescue missions on Mount Kilimanjaro, which attracts thousands of climbers annually and often requires emergency evacuations due to altitude sickness and injuries.

Libyan Army Chief Mohammed Al-Haddad Killed in Turkey Jet Crash Alongside Seven Others

A Dassault Falcon 50 jet carrying Libya’s army chief of staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad, crashed near Ankara, Turkey, after reporting an electrical malfunction. All eight people on board, including Al-Haddad and three crew members, died. The tragedy prompted Libya to declare three days of national mourning and raised concerns over the continuity of military operations. Turkish authorities recovered the flight recorders, and investigations are ongoing.

#Libya #MohammedAlHaddad #TurkeyJetCrash #InternationalNews #LibyanArmy #AviationAccident

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‎NAF C-130 FERRY FLIGHT LANDS SAFELY IN BANJUL EN ROUTE TO PORTUGAL FOR DEPOT MAINTENANCE
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‎The Nigerian Air Force had confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, which earlier made a precautionary landing during a ferry flight, has successfully continued its journey and landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia.
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This is after transiting Accra in line with an updated flight plan, routing through Casablanca to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
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A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that the Ferry flights for aircraft programmed for maintenance are required to operate through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced in accordance with established aviation safety procedures.
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‎All personnel are safe and the aircraft remains serviceable.
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‎The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the host authorities in Ghana, The Gambia, and other countries overflown for the kind support extended to the crew, and also acknowledges the concern and goodwill expressed by Nigerians.
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‎The Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism in all operations.

NCAA Investigates Three Nigerian Airlines Over Passenger Welfare and Delays

Regulatory Action: The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) intervened at the Abuja operations of Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airline due to concerns over poor passenger care during flight disruptions.

Reason for Action: The NCAA cited failure to comply with regulations, including providing timely updates and light refreshments after two hours of delay, as required under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.

Public Statement: Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, stressed that airlines must meet their obligations, especially during the end-of-year travel rush, warning of regulatory sanctions for non-compliance.

Context: Airfares have surged by about 150%, reaching over ₦300,000 on some domestic routes (especially South-South and South-East) due to high passenger demand and aircraft shortages. The Nigerian Senate recently summoned aviation officials over these steep increases.


Key Takeaway: NCAA is actively monitoring airline operations to protect passengers’ rights and ensure compliance during high-traffic periods. Airlines failing to meet standards risk penalties.

NCAA CONFIRMS TWO ADDITIONAL AIRPORTS WITH AERODROME CERTIFICATION

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano and Port Harcourt International Airport have now received full AERODROME certification from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

This brings the total number of certified international airports in the country to four, joining Lagos and Abuja International Airports.

Burkina Faso Releases Nigerian Air Force Aircraft and 11 Personnel

A Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, held diplomatic engagements with Burkina Faso's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, regarding a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying 11 personnel that had been detained in the country.

The engagements resulted in the immediate release of the 11 personnel and the aircraft.

Minister Tuggar subsequently met with the freed Air Force members to confirm their well-being.

The delegation and personnel are now en route back to Nigeria.

Nigeria emphasised its adherence to international aviation protocols, expressed respect for Burkina Faso's sovereignty, and distanced itself from any unsubstantiated claims of maltreatment.

Both sides highlighted shared security challenges and the importance of fraternal relations.

This resolution underscores successful diplomacy in de-escalating a potential regional dispute.

The military aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue.

Burkina Faso authorities detained the personnel and seized the aircraft, citing alleged unauthorised entry into their airspace.

Former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika Narrowly Escapes Mob Attack During Condolence Visit to Katsina Palace

Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on Tuesday narrowly escaped a mob attack during a condolence visit to the palace of the District Head of Dutsi in Katsina State. Videos circulating online showed chaotic scenes as an angry crowd gathered within and around the palace, with tensions escalating rapidly. In the footage, an individual was seen being forcibly dragged out before security aides intervened and hurriedly evacuated him in a vehicle to prevent mob violence. SaharaReporters gathered that swift action by aides and security operatives prevented what could have become a violent assault on Sirika, who also holds the traditional title of Marusan Katsina and serves as district head of Shargalle. The cause of the crowd’s anger remains unclear as authorities have yet to issue an official explanation.

Nigerian Air Force Denies Spy Mission Claims, Clarifies Details of Seized C-130 Aircraft and Crew in Burkina Faso

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted allegations that one of its C-130 aircraft, which was detained in Burkina Faso, was involved in a covert espionage mission. According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft was on a routine ferry flight to Portugal for scheduled maintenance and was not conducting any intelligence operations.

The NAF clarified that the aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, following standard aviation protocols, and was not intercepted or forced to land. It further rejected claims that the 11 crew members on board were intelligence officers or involved in espionage.

The NAF stressed that the crew’s detention was being handled through diplomatic channels, and emphasized the importance of relying on verified information to avoid the spread of misleading narratives that could harm Nigeria’s regional relations and national cohesion.

BREAKING NEWS: Burkina Faso Official Warns Nigeria: "Do Your Worst - We're Ready for Any Showdown".

Tensions have reached a boiling point as Burkina Faso continues to hold eleven Nigerian Air Force pilots and crew members more than 48 hours after detaining the NAF C-130 aircraft.

What began as a diplomatic disagreement has now spiralled into a direct challenge to regional cooperation, international aviation protocols, and long-standing military norms.

Nigerian authorities are reportedly alarmed, while a senior Burkinabé official's defiant statement has intensified fears of a broader diplomatic clash between the two West African nations.

Hike in Airfares: Reps seek reduction of 50% in airport charges and auxiliary taxes

The Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation has been asked to intervene in the exorbitant cost of domestic air tickets by effecting a fifty percent reduction in airport charges and auxiliary taxes.

The House of Representatives which passed the resolution at Thursday's plenary is hoping that this will translate to a significant reduction in airfares to enable Nigerians take advantage of air travel during the Yuletide.

Adopting a motion by Representative Obinna Aguocha, the House called for a transparent assessment mechanism by the Ministry of Aviation to determine the actual operational costs for airlines during the Yuletide.

The House also drew attention to the plight of retirees and contributors under the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Pension Fund Limited, who are facing delayed payment of their pension and gratuities, while calling for action.

The government has absolutely no power to fix prices for private enterprises, including the aviation industry.”

~ Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation says