President Tinubu has approved the constitution and reconstitution of the governing boards of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Bank of Agriculture (BOA), and Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

Below is the full list of appointed chairmen, executive directors, and members:

UNIVERSAL BASIC EDUCATION COMMISSION (UBEC) BOARD
- Chairman: Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura (retained)

- South East Representative: Uchendu Ikechi Mbaegbulem

- South South Representative: Gift Ngo

- South West Representative: Mrs Ibiwunmi Akinnola

- North East Representative: Dr Meiro Mandara

- North West Representative: Dr Abdu Imam Saulawa

- North Central Representative: Professor Paul Ibukun-Olu Bolorunduro

(Term: 4 years in the first instance)

BANK OF AGRICULTURE (BOA)

- Chairman: Muhammad Babangida

- Managing Director/CEO: Ayo Sotinrin

Executive Directors
- Fatima Garba (Sokoto) – Executive Director, Corporate Services

- Ka’amuna Ibrahim Khadi (Borno) – Executive Director, Risk Management & Strategy

- Hakeem Oluwatosin Salami (Kwara) – Executive Director, Operations

Non-Executive Directors
- Aminu Malami Mohammed – North East
- Charles Amuchienwa – South East
- Oladejo Odunuga – South West
- Rabiu Idris Funtua – North West
- Kochi Donald Iorgyer – North Central

NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT FUND (NADF) BOARD
- Executive Secretary/CEO (previously appointed): Muhammad Abu Ibrahim

- Chairman: Mallam Bello Maccido (North West)

Members
- Dr Nelson Henry Essien – South South (Akwa Ibom)
- Amina Ahmed Habib – North West (Jigawa)
- Engr. Akinyinka Olufela Akinnola – South West (Ondo)
- Hassan Tanimu Musa Usman – North East (Borno)
- Lufer Samson Orkar – North Central (Benue)
- Felix Achibiri – South East (Imo)

The appointments take immediate effect.

VIDEO: Borno kids steal show at NYSC camp with flawless march past

A group of primary school children from host communities in Borno State thrilled participants at the NYSC orientation camp in Maiduguri with a precise and energetic marching display during the inter platoon parade competition.

The viral footage shows four children marching confidently beside corps members, sparking loud cheers from onlookers who were visibly delighted by their coordination and enthusiasm.
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Four Children Killed, One Injured As IED Blast Rocks Borno Motor Park

Four children have been confirmed dead and another critically injured after an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded behind Banki Motor Park in Bama LGA, Borno State. The incident occurred around 12:40pm when a group of boys reportedly played with an explosive device believed to have been picked from the bush. Police, EOD personnel, and emergency responders arrived promptly to secure the area, while the surviving 12-year-old victim is receiving treatment. Authorities warn residents to avoid strange objects as investigations continue.

Tinubu Constitutes Boards of NADF, Bank of Agriculture, UBEC

…Appoints Chairmen, Executive Directors, Zonal Representatives

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the constitution of the governing boards of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), with appointments reflecting federal character and professional expertise.

Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC)
Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, earlier appointed in July, retains his position as Chairman of the UBEC Board.

New zonal representatives appointed to the board are:

South East: Uchendu Ikechi

Mbaegbulem
South South:

Gift Ngo
South West:

Mrs Ibiwunmi Akinnola
North East:

Dr Meiro Mandara
North West:

Dr Abdu Imam Saulawa
North Central:

Professor Paul Ibukun-Olu Bolorunduro

The Chairman and members shall serve an initial four-year term.

Bank of Agriculture (BOA)
President Tinubu confirmed the earlier appointments of Muhammad Babangida as Chairman and Ayo Sotinrin as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer.

Three Executive Directors and five Non-Executive Directors were also named:

Executive Directors
Fatima Garba (Sokoto) – Corporate Services

Ka’amuna Ibrahim Khadi (Borno) – Risk Management and Strategy
Hakeem

Oluwatosin Salami (Kwara) – Operations

Non-Executive Directors

Aminu Malami Mohammed – North East

Charles Amuchienwa – South East

Oladejo Odunuga – South West

Rabiu Idris Funtua – North West

Kochi Donald Iorgyer – North Central

National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF)
Mallam Bello Maccido, pioneer Chairman of FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited with over 30 years’ experience in financial services, was appointed Chairman of the NADF Board (representing North West).

Other board members include:

Dr Nelson Henry Essien (Akwa Ibom/South South) – Financial Consultant and Seasoned Banker

Amina Ahmed Habib (Jigawa/North West) – Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants

Engr. Akinyinka Olufela Akinnola (Ondo/South West) – Engineer and Businessman

Hassan Tanimu Musa Usman (Borno/North East) – Founder, New Frontier Developments Ltd; former Non-Executive Director, Access Bank

Lufer Samson Orkar (Benue/North Central)

Felix Achibiri (Imo/South East) – Group Director, Genesis Energy Holdings; Chairman/CEO, DFC Holdings Limited

The appointments follow the October 2023 naming of Muhammad Abu Ibrahim as Executive Secretary/CEO of NADF.

The new boards are expected to drive agricultural financing, rural development, and universal basic education delivery across the country.

Sowore Questions Zulum’s ₦7B Boko Haram Rehabilitation Spending Amid Worsening Insecurity

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum over claims that his administration spent ₦7 billion on rehabilitating Boko Haram fighters and ₦100 billion on security in 2025. Reacting to a report by Daily Trust, Sowore said the figures raise serious concerns about transparency, especially as communities in Borno continue to suffer deadly attacks. He argued that the rehabilitation programme has not improved security and called for an independent audit of all security-related spending. Sowore warned that without accountability, the public cannot trust that these massive funds are being used effectively to combat terrorism.

BREAKING NEWS: A High Court sitting in Maiduguri has sentenced an 18-year-old herdsman, Adamu Mohammed, to d€ath for culpable hom!cide after finding him guilty of k!lling 19-year-old Adamu Ali during a fight in Auno, Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.

We have spent N100bn on security this year.

~ Borno state Governor Zulum

Do you believe him?

Two People Found Dead With Throats Slit in Separate Borno Incidents

The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of two individuals whose throats were slit in separate incidents in Maiduguri. The first victim, a woman identified as Rifkatu Yohanna, was discovered in her Shuwari II residence with multiple cuts before being confirmed dead at the State Specialist Hospital. A suspect, Salisu Mohammed Nura, has been arrested in connection with the case. Hours later, police found the body of a man, Muhammed Ibrahim Saje, inside an abandoned Honda Civic in the Modari Polo area. Authorities believe the crime scene had gone unnoticed for over 24 hours. Both cases have been transferred to the Homicide Section for investigation, with the Commissioner of Police ordering heightened patrols across Borno.

NAF Airstrikes Crush ISWAP Attack in Chibok, Destroy Major Terrorist Camps in Katsina

The Nigerian Air Force has successfully foiled an ISWAP assault in Chibok, Borno State, and destroyed key terrorist hideouts in Katsina during intensified precision air operations. According to NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, coordinated airstrikes under Operations Fansan Yamma and Hadin Kai neutralised scores of insurgents, dismantled fortified camps, and disrupted logistics hubs across Faskari, Kankara, Malumfashi, and Danfako.
In Chibok, NAF aircraft supported ground troops with four targeted strikes that shattered insurgent escape routes and prevented a renewed offensive. The operations highlight the military’s strengthened intelligence-led counterterrorism strategy and its commitment to restoring security nationwide.

12 BRIGADE INTERCEPTS VEHICLE WITH CANNABIS IN KOGI

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully intercepted a vehicle, conveying substance, suspected to be Cannabis Sativa during its operations in Agbede, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Lieutenant HASSAN ABDULLAHI in a press statement says,
306 parcels weighing 276 kilograms were recovered from the vehicle on 1st December 2025.

He explains that troops on patrol, intercepted a red Toyota Camry with registration number ABJ 325 LA transporting the substance from Ekiti to Borno State.

The driver, he said attempted to evade arrest upon sighting the check point but was eventually pursued and apprehended along the Apata–Lokoja road in Kogi.

The seized items and the driver have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Kogi State Command for further action.

TROOPS STORM TERROR HIDEOUTS, RESCUE 12 KIDNAP VICTIMS IN DARING PRE-DAWN OPERATION

In a remarkable display of courage and compassion, troops of Operation HADIN KAI have brought hope back to 12 families after rescuing seven women and five children from Boko Haram captivity in the unforgiving terrain of the Mandara Mountains.

The victims, who were on transit were abducted on 14 November along the Gwoza Limankara road. They regained their freedom on Sunday following a daring clearance mission conducted under Operation DESERT SANITY IV and Diligent Search.

Led by the vigilant 26 Task Force Brigade, with support from Hybrid Forces, Hunters and vigilantes, the troops launched a pre-dawn assault through the rugged mountain foothills toward Uvaha. The sheer intensity of troop firepower forced the terrorists to abandon their captives and flee.

Amid the chaos, the terrified victims scattered into the surrounding bushes, disoriented and exhausted from days in captivity. At about 8:45 a.m., they were safely recovered by troops who had continued searching the area to ensure no one was left behind.

Among those rescued are Fadi Musa, Jummai Manga, Hamsatu Musa, Jummai Ali, Inna Amadu, Falmata Musa, Hadiza Hamman, and five children. Many were visibly tired after trekking long distances when their abductors fled under fire. The troops immediately evacuated them to the brigade field ambulance, where they received urgent medical care for blisters, injuries, and the effects of beatings endured in captivity. After treatment and meals, they were formally handed over to the representative of the Chairman, Gwoza Local Government Area, for reunification with their families.

The military high command has praised the bravery, speed, and professionalism of the troops, acknowledging the vital contributions of security stakeholders and local informants whose timely intelligence made the rescue possible. Troops remain in active pursuit of ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further atrocities and ensure the safety of all civilians.

BREAKING: Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, has firmly stated that the Boko Haram conflict is not a religious crisis, directly addressing the leadership of the Muslim and Christian faiths in the state and calling for reconciliation and harmony among all residents.

JUST IN: Hajia Maimuna Ajah, the mother of Aisha Muhammad Ajah, 15, who was forcefully taken away by elements of Boko Haram terriorists on August 9, in Kirawa, a border community in Borno State has expressed grave worries over the daughter’s condition in terriorists captivity.

NIGERIAN ARMY SHATTERS TERROR NETWORKS: 8 NEUTRALIZED, 51 ARRESTED, 27 RESCUED, ARSENAL RECOVERED

In a decisive nationwide offensive, the Nigerian Army delivered major blows to criminal networks between 29 November and 1 December 2025, neutralizing eight terrorists, arresting 51 suspects, rescuing 27 victims and seizing a substantial cache of weapons and illicit items across several operations.

In the North East, troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, 152 Task Force Battalion and 192 Battalion in Borno State neutralized four ISWAP/JAS terrorists in ambush and clearance operations, recovering three AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines containing 70 rounds of 7.62mm, 31 rounds of 12.7mm, 171 rounds of 7.62x54mm linked, 183 rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO, an AK-47 working part and a Baofeng radio. Troops also rescued no victims in these operations but responded effectively to infiltration attempts around Chibok.

In Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Kogi and Kaduna States, troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE and Operation ENDURING PEACE rescued 3 victims in Panyam, 1 in Zaki-Biam, 6 adult females and 1 minor (7 total) in Tsanyawa/Kankia, 4 victims in Yagba West, 1 victim in Odo Eri, 2 victims in Sanga LGA and 2 adult females in Isoko North, bringing the total rescued in the North Central and North West theatres to 20 victims. In these operations, troops arrested 2 suspected kidnappers in Panyam, 4 human traffickers in Sardauna, 3 extremist collaborators in Ukum, 13 illegal miners in Lau, 2 cultists in Delta and 1 gunrunner in Plateau. Combined with 25 drug suspects arrested in Bayelsa and Rivers, troops arrested a total of 51 suspects across the regions.

In Taraba, troops also neutralized 4 violent extremists and recovered one fabricated AK-47 rifle, three Dane guns, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and two motorcycles during a communal-clash response in Karim Lamido. Troops in Delta State recovered one locally made pistol, two cartridges and five mobile phones while arresting two suspected cultists. Security forces further recovered 76 rustled cattle in Plateau State and handed them back to their rightful owners.

In the South-South, anti-oil theft operations led to the shutdown of an illegal refining site with about 1,000 litres of stolen crude, while joint raids with NDLEA led to the arrest of 25 drug-related suspects. Meanwhile, in Kaduna State, troops intercepted vehicles transporting 5,000kg of gelatine explosives, 3,000m of cordtex fuse, 10 electric detonators and 1,000m of connecting wire, prompting ongoing investigations involving other security agencies.

Additionally, troops arrested notorious gunrunner Shuaibu Isah (aka Alhaji) who was attempting to receive 1,000 rounds of ammunition from accomplices still being trailed. His arrest marked one of the most significant breakthroughs of the period.

The Nigerian Army reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians and ensuring that terrorists, criminals and their collaborators have no safe haven.

"Flush out these bandits"- Tinubu orders Police, DSS to storm forests in Nigeria.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, directing security agencies to intensify operations against terrorists and armed groups hiding in forests across the country.

In a national address on Wednesday, the President ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to comb and secure wooded areas where bandits and insurgents are believed to be operating. He also authorised the agency to embark on fresh recruitment to strengthen manpower for the operation.

“There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu warned, instructing the DSS and police to storm forested regions and flush out criminal elements responsible for recent deadly attacks.

As part of the emergency measures, the President approved the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police personnel, increasing the force to 50,000 officers nationwide. He further directed that National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps be used as temporary training facilities to fast-track the process.

Tinubu also ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs, saying the personnel would undergo rapid retraining and be redeployed to areas facing heightened security threats.

“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground,” he said, urging citizens to support security agencies and report suspicious activities.

The President commended security operatives for securing the release of kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi State and worshippers abducted in Kwara, assuring that efforts to rescue remaining hostages including students kidnapped in Niger State would continue.

While praising the Armed Forces for their sacrifices, Tinubu cautioned against indiscipline, collusion, or negligence, stressing that the military must restore peace across all operational zones.

He also encouraged states with established security outfits to intensify local efforts and called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws that would allow states to create their own police structures where necessary.

Addressing the long-running clashes between herders and farmers, Tinubu urged herder groups to embrace ranching and take advantage of the newly created Livestock Ministry, warning against continued open grazing and illegal possession of weapons.

The President extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara, and paid tribute to military personnel who lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.

“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” he stated.

Commissioner for Education in Borno State, Engr. Lawan Wakilbe says a rumour of unknown men entering the Government Girls’ College caused panic.

Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide and Senior Pastor of Faith Tabernacle, has announced a seven-day nationwide prayer and fasting initiative to address Nigeria’s rising insecurity.

He declared Monday, November 24, 2025, as a Statewide Day of Fasting and Prayer focused on restoring peace in Borno State and across the country, emphasizing that security efforts should be supported by prayer.

Jubilation as Troops Chase Boko Haram Out of Borno State, Restore Calm in Magumeri

Troops of the North East Joint Task Force ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ (OPHK) successfully drove Boko Haram insurgents out of a community in Magumeri Local Government Area, Borno State, following an att+ck that left homes and vehicles d%stroyed.

The t+rrorists launched a surprise a§§ault on the town late Saturday night, setting f+re to residential buildings and vehicles—including one belonging to a Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) member. Despite the d+struction, no lives were lost. Executive Chairman of Magumeri, Hon. Abubakar Abdulkadir Yaro, confirmed that the att+ckers fled around 3 a.m. on Sunday after being overwhelmed by the rapid response from troops and allied Civilian JTF, Hunters, and Volunteers.

“Our gallant troops and community defenders responded swiftly to distress calls and successfully repelled the t+rrorists,” Yaro said. He praised the security forces for their well-coordinated efforts and said that normalcy is gradually returning to the area. Boko Haram and ISWAP militants have recently intensified att+cks on military and civilian targets across Borno State.

In recent weeks, the military s¥ffered the loss of two commanding officers during clearance operations in Bama and Damboa Local Government Areas. Amid weeklong visits from the Army and Air Force Chiefs to the region, new coordinated strategies have been adopted to strengthen efforts to clear insurgents from the area. Troops assured the top military brass of their dedication to protecting lives and property in the Northeast, while the military leadership pledged to enhance the welfare of frontline personnel.

Zulum Declares Statewide Fasting and Prayer as Attacks Rise Across Northern Nigeria

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has declared Monday, November 24, 2025, as a statewide day of fasting and prayer for peace and prosperity in Borno and across Nigeria. He made the announcement in a televised address on Saturday.

The governor’s declaration comes amid a surge in violent attacks targeting schools and religious centres in northern Nigeria. In Kwara State, schools in four local government areas were shut after a church attack left at least two worshippers dead and others abducted. In Kebbi, 25 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a boarding school in Maga, while a vice-principal was killed. In Niger State, gunmen abducted 303 children and 12 teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri.

Zulum said the past 15 years of Boko Haram insurgency had deeply affected Borno, displacing millions and disrupting livelihoods. He noted that the relative peace recently achieved has boosted farming activities and that the state government remains committed to supporting agriculture for food security.

He called on all residents—regardless of religion—to join in the statewide fast and prayers, stressing that spiritual intervention is needed alongside security measures. Zulum urged citizens to seek God’s mercy and pray for lasting peace in Borno and the nation.

BREAKING: Nigerian Army Dismisses Four Soldiers Fighting Boko Haram For ‘Disobeying Standing Order

The Nigerian Army has dismissed four soldiers serving in the fight against Boko Haram in the North-East for allegedly disobeying a standing order. The affected soldiers are Mukaila Mutari, Isah Emmanuel, Kolomo Alex, and Ibrahim Musa. Their dismissal, dated November 17, 2025, was revealed through photos obtained by SaharaReporters.
A standing order refers to a permanent military instruction or directive from a superior officer. However, the exact order the soldiers allegedly violated has not yet been disclosed.
This development occurred the same day that Brigadier-General Musa Uba was confirmed captured and killed by ISWAP terrorists. The dismissal also comes amid heightened military activity following an ISWAP ambush that resulted in the deaths of soldiers and Civilian JTF members, prompting senior military officials to travel to Damboa, Borno State, to coordinate rescue efforts for abducted personnel.