Explosions Rock Tignon Barracks as Benin Coup Plotters Attempt Escape After Failed Takeover

Heavy explosions and gunfire erupted at Tignon Barracks near Cotonou as soldiers involved in Benin Republic’s failed coup attempt allegedly barricaded themselves inside the facility while trying to evade arrest. Led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, the mutineers briefly seized national television at dawn, announcing the suspension of the constitution before loyalist forces regained control. Reports indicate that several plotters shed their uniforms and fled in civilian clothes, while Tigri’s whereabouts remain unknown. Witnesses also observed unidentified aircraft arriving from Nigeria and Ivory Coast. ECOWAS and the African Union have condemned the attempted coup, as uncertainty and heightened security continue across Cotonou.

NEW: A joint U.S. Coast Guard and federal law enforcement operation seizes more than 3,700 pounds of cocaine, worth an estimated $28 million, from a suspected drug-smuggling vessel off the coast of Miami Beach.

“This was the largest USCG small boat station cocaine seizure since 1995,” Lt. Matthew Ross says.

The three suspects on the boat are now in federal custody.

DINNING IN HONOUR: NIGERIAN ARMY CELEBRATES CADETS OF EC COURSE 2/2025 AT REGIMENTAL DINNER NIGHT

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal has commended cadets of Executive Commission Course 2/2025 for their tireless efforts, unwaivering dedication, and unrelenting passion for excellence as they prepare to commence a new phase of life in their career as commissioned officers. The COAS made this statement on Thursday, 4 December, 2025 at the regimental dinner night held at the AVM AO Ogundana Officers’ Mess Jaji in honour of the cadets.

The COAS speaking through the Commander Infantry Corps (CIC), Major General Godwin Mutkut noted that the cadets are coming into the Nigerian Army officers’ cadre at a most crucial period in the history of our nation. He added that the qualities imbued and knowledge gained will enhance their career.

Presenting the vote of thanks onbehalf of the cadets, the Battalion Senior Under Officer Suleiman Michika expressed the Nigerian Army for the opportunity to be commissioned as Officers and to the Nigerian Army School of Infantry for a rewarding training. He further stated that the cadets were ready to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army.

The occasion brought Senior officers both serving and retired, especially past commandants of NASI and Commandants of NA schools within Kaduna and environs. The event climaxed with the presentation of souvenirs. Participants were treated to different cuisines to mark the ceremony.

SHAMSUDEEN UMAR
Captain
Acting Assistant Director
Army Public Relations
Nigerian Army School of Infantry
5 December 2025

#NigerianArmyInfo
#HqNigerianArmy

Ex-Army General Ali-Keffi Links Terror Suspects to Top Nigerian Officials, Alleges Cover-Up

Retired Maj. Gen. Ali-Keffi has revealed that a 2021 counter-terrorism probe identified several terror-financing suspects connected to powerful Nigerian figures, including former AGF Abubakar Malami, ex-COAS Tukur Buratai, ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, and others. He alleges that the operation was sabotaged, suspects were secretly released, and he was detained and forced into retirement for refusing to compromise the investigation.

Over 600 Homes Destroyed As Ocean Surge Devastates Ayetoro Community In Ondo

More than 600 homes and key community structures have been destroyed in Ayetoro, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, as a worsening Atlantic Ocean surge continues to erode the coastline. A video shared by civic group MonITNG shows collapsed buildings, wiped-out streets, and desperate efforts by residents to shield the historic community palace with concrete barriers. Locals say the ocean has advanced to within five metres of the landmark.

Residents accused authorities of neglect despite earlier federal warnings about rising sea levels. They called for urgent intervention, including coastal defenses and land reclamation, as schools, markets, churches, and farmlands have already been swept away, displacing hundreds of families.


#Ayetoro

#OndoState

Nigerian Army Rescues Four Kidnap Victims in Waterborne Operation in Bakassi

The Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade has rescued four kidnapped civilians during a coordinated waterborne operation in Bakassi, Cross River State. The rescue took place on December 2, 2025, after troops on routine patrol intercepted armed militants transporting the victims by boat toward Cameroon. The militants opened fire but fled after soldiers responded with superior firepower. All victims were recovered unhurt with their belongings, and no troops were injured. Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena praised the soldiers’ professionalism and reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks across coastal and riverine corridors. The incident unfolds amid rising kidnapping cases across Nigeria, prompting the Senate to advance a bill classifying all kidnapping offences as terrorism and prescribing the death penalty.


#Bakassi_kidnapping_rescue

#Nigerian_Army_13_Brigade

Norway Builds World’s Longest and Deepest Undersea Road Tunnel, Rogfast, Set for 2033 Completion




Norway is constructing Rogfast, a 27-kilometer (17-mile) undersea road tunnel that will become the world’s longest and deepest of its kind, reaching 392 meters (1,286 feet) below sea level. The mega-project, part of Norway’s vision for a ferry-free E39 coastal highway, aims to reduce travel time between major western cities, including Stavanger, Haugesund, and Bergen.
Construction began in 2018, paused due to cost overruns, and resumed in 2021, with completion now set for 2033 at a cost of 25 billion Norwegian kroner ($2.4 billion).
The tunnel will feature two tubes with dual lanes, advanced laser-guided construction technology ensuring millimeter precision, a rare 260-meter-deep double roundabout, and high-tech ventilation and safety systems. Despite challenges such as saltwater leakage and extreme depth, Rogfast is expected to boost regional connectivity, cut commute times, support local industries, and form a critical part of Norway’s long-term infrastructure transformation.

Nasarawa Police Rescue 40 Foreign Nationals from Human Trafficking Syndicate Lafia, Nasarawa State

The Nasarawa State Police Command has rescued 40 foreign nationals, mostly from Mali and Ivory Coast, who were lured into Nigeria by a human trafficking syndicate with false promises of jobs in France.

The victims were intercepted before they could be transported out of the country, police said on Saturday.
State Commissioner of Police, Shettima Jauro, disclosed the rescue during a press briefing in Lafia, the state capital.

According to CP Jauro, the victims were deceived with offers of employment in Europe and brought into Nigeria through illegal routes. They were being held in a location within the state ahead of onward movement to France when police acted on intelligence and raided the premises.

The prime suspect, believed to be the leader of the trafficking ring, remains at large. Police say efforts are ongoing to arrest him and other accomplices.
No further details about the victims’ conditions or the exact location of the rescue were immediately released, as investigations continue.

⚡️ Tanker attacked in the Black Sea: vessel traveling from Russia to Georgia hit off the Turkish coast

Turkey’s maritime authority reports that yet another tanker en route from Russia to Georgia came under attack 80 miles off the Turkish shore.

Incidents involving strikes on Russian or Russia-linked routes in the Black Sea have become more frequent in recent months. Turkey is increasing its monitoring efforts, while insurers are already pricing in new risks for anyone moving through this corridor.

Such strikes are turning into a tool of pressure — ensuring Russia has no safe zones and that every route becomes a liability. The more disruption hits Russian supply lines, the stronger the leverage international partners gain to push Moscow toward ending the war.

U.S. military aircraft, including B-52 bombers and F/A-18 escorts, are conducting near-constant patrols in international airspace off Venezuela's coast—part of an escalating push against Maduro's regime amid drug trafficking ops and broader tensions.

BREAKING:

Ukraine releases videos of their naval drones striking 2 Russian shadow fleet oil tankers off the Turkish Black Sea coast yesterday.

BREAKING: France will soon be able to intercept boats in the Channel that are suspected of picking up migrants along the coast and bringing them to the UK, French authorities have told Sky News

Army denies alleged plan to force youths into the military service.

The Nigerian Army has rejected claims that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, is planning to forcibly recruit Nigerian youths aged 18 and above into military service.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, the Acting Director of Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, called the viral report a “malicious fabrication” designed to mislead people and sow fear.

She stressed that at no point did the COAS threaten mandatory enlistment for youths who don’t volunteer.

She clarified that the COAS has never made any such statements in any official forum or public engagement.

The viral post also alleged that 10,000 soldiers recruited last year have gone missing, a claim the Army spokesperson dismissed as entirely unfounded.

Lt-Col. Anele emphasized that spreading false information of this nature is a criminal offense, and anyone involved could be tracked, apprehended, and prosecuted under the law.

The Nigerian Army further urged the public to rely solely on verified communication channels and official social media accounts for credible information.

Anele stressed that the Army remains committed to transparent recruitment processes and maintaining public trust.

However, the Nigeria Army recently announced plans to recruit a new batch of soldiers to strengthen national security.

Nigeria Thrash Gabon 4–1 in World Cup Play-off Showdown.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a dominant performance on Thursday night, defeating Gabon 4–1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Play-off clash.

The match, played at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco, saw Nigeria assert control early and maintain pressure throughout the game.

Victor Osimhen scored twice as Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-1 win over Gabon in extra time, booking their place in the next stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Thursday at Stade Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco.

After a goalless first half, Nigeria broke the deadlock through Akor Adams, who capitalised on a defensive error to put the Eagles ahead early in the second half. Gabon responded with a late equaliser just four minutes from time, sending the match into extra time.

In extra time, Chidera Ejuke calmly restored Nigeria’s lead before Osimhen added two more goals to seal a resounding victory. The Super Eagles’ defence, marshalled by Benjamin Frederick and Calvin Bassey, held firm to deny Gabon any comeback.

The result edges Nigeria closer to a World Cup spot, following their dominant 4-0 triumph over Benin Republic in the group stages, during which Osimhen scored a hat-trick. Gabon, finishing second in Group F behind Ivory Coast, also advanced to the playoff round.

With this victory, Nigeria move to the top of their qualification group, strengthening their chances of booking a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Nigerian Navy Rescues 10 Crew Members from Distressed Vessel Off Calabar Coast.

The Nigerian Navy says its personnel have rescued 10 crew members from a distressed vessel off Calabar waters.

In a statement on Friday, Navy spokesperson Commodore A. Adams-Aliu said the rescue was carried out by troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA after receiving a distress call at about 8pm.

According to him, the Base deployed a naval gunboat fitted with a submersible pump to assist MV SEMA III, which had departed Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, and was heading to Calabar, Cross River State, before it began taking in water.

Upon arrival, the naval team safely evacuated all 10 occupants — one Cameroonian, one Equatorial Guinean, and eight Nigerians. The rescued crew members were taken to FOB IBAKA, where they were debriefed, cared for, and accommodated until Saturday, 8 November 2025.

The Master of MV SEMA III expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for the swift response and professional handling of the situation.

He added that the incident highlights the Navy’s strengthened efforts under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to enhance maritime safety, safeguard national maritime assets, and support lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.

Political Earthquake in Bayelsa: Governor Diri Dumps PDP for APC, Cites Tinubu’s “Love for Ijaw People”

Bayelsa’s political landscape has witnessed a stunning shift as Governor Douye Diri officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) — a move that has seen most members of the State House of Assembly follow his lead.

The Governor explained that his decision was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to align Bayelsa State with the federal government for accelerated development and better opportunities for the people.

Speaking at the defection ceremony, Diri praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its “unprecedented commitment” to the Niger Delta’s development, describing it as proof of the President’s affection for the Ijaw nation.

“Government has shown us the will and the direction that they love the Ijaw people and Bayelsa State,” Diri declared during a live broadcast on Channels Television.


He highlighted three major developmental milestones achieved through federal partnership as justification for his defection:

1. Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road: A long-awaited project now actively pursued under President Tinubu, described by Diri as “the economic lifeline of the Ijaw people.”


2. Nembe–Brass Road Project: Once stalled, but revived after Tinubu’s swift approval. “When I met the President, he said, ‘Governor, it is done,’ and within days, contractors were on site,” Diri recounted.


3. ₦4 Billion Tax Waiver: Granted for the importation of 60-megawatt gas turbines to provide Bayelsa with 24-hour independent power supply, a breakthrough after years of darkness due to grid sabotage.

Diri concluded that these “acts of grace” proved Tinubu’s genuine commitment to Bayelsa’s progress, calling his move to the APC “a necessary alignment for the future prosperity of our people.”

82-Year-Old Ouattara Wins Fourth Term With 89.77% in Ivory Coast Election.

Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara has secured a fourth term in office after winning 89.77 percent of the votes in Saturday’s election, the country’s electoral commission announced on Monday.

The poll, which excluded Ouattara’s two strongest rivals, saw nearly nine million Ivorians eligible to vote in the world’s top cocoa-producing nation. 

Despite fears of unrest, voting took place peacefully, although tensions had soared in the lead-up to the election following opposition complaints over disqualifications.

Provisional results showed Ouattara sweeping the polls across most regions, with voter turnout reaching almost 100 percent in his northern strongholds. He also made surprising gains in southern areas and parts of Abidjan, traditionally considered opposition territory, where many polling stations recorded low turnout.

Entrepreneur Jean-Louis Billon finished a distant second with 3.09 percent of the vote, according to the commission’s president, Ibrahime Kuibiert Coulibaly. Turnout stood at 50.10 percent — similar to the 2020 election, when Ouattara won 94 percent amid an opposition boycott.

The 82-year-old leader, who first took power in 2011, remains a dominant figure in Ivorian politics. His victory underscores his continued grip on power in a country that has largely resisted the coups and insurgencies destabilizing other parts of West Africa.

Ghana's former First Lady Nana Konadu Rawlings dies aged 76.

Ghana's former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has died at the age of 76.

She was the widow of Ghana's longest-serving leader, Jerry John Rawlings, who died five years ago.

He led two coups before twice being elected president in multiparty polls.

Social media is awash with tributes to the former first lady, politician and women's rights advocate, who Ghanaian presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said had died after a short illness on Thursday morning.

Her family visited President John Mahama in the afternoon to officially notify him of her death. The president leads the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party, founded by Jerry Rawlings after he took power.

Agyeman-Rawlings also had political ambitions - but lost out in her bid to become the NDC's presidential candidate in 2012.

As first lady, she founded the 31st December Women's Movement to empower women and teach them how to earn money to develop their communities. It was named after the date of her husband's second coup, which took place in 1981.

Born in November 1948, Agyeman-Rawlings came from a middle-class family and grew up in the city of Cape Coast.

"Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Costs ₦7.5 Billion Per Kilometer" —David Umahi

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has justified the ₦7.5 billion per kilometer cost of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway insisting that the ₦1.067 trillion budgeted for the first 47.47-kilometer section is fair & even below global benchmarks

Addressing journalists in a recent briefing, Umahi explained that the project’s cost reflects its complex design — a 6 lane reinforced concrete expressway featuring flyovers, underpasses, shoreline protection, solar lighting & landscaping

“A standard coastal road costs ₦7.5 billion per kilometer,” Umahi said. “This includes all fillings, shore protections, solar streetlights & the planting of trees.”

According to him, the figure was derived by dividing the total ₦1.067 trillion cost by the road length & adjusting it to a standard two-lane federal highway. “When you divide ₦1.067 trillion by 47.47 kilometers & then by two lanes, it gives ₦7.5 billion per kilometer of a standard road,” he explained

Umahi noted that the cost also factors in difficult terrain and extensive groundwork. He disclosed that engineers encountered pits as deep as 20 meters along parts of the route, which had to be excavated and refilled in layers before concrete laying could begin.

Comparing the current project to older asphalt-based roads, the minister argued that the use of reinforced concrete ensures greater durability and long-term value for money.

He also revealed that international financial institutions, including a Dutch-led consortium, reviewed the project and found it to be “undervalued.” Umahi added that the 70% loan portion of the project was oversubscribed by $100 million, reflecting global confidence in its feasibility.

Defending the government’s transparency, Umahi challenged critics to be factual in their assessments. “If international lenders can back this project, we are ready to face anyone. But when criticising, be objective and tell the public the truth,” he stated.

Depot petrol prices have skyrocketed to almost ₦900 per litre in key coastal locations across Nigeria. This increase is due to operational and supply issues at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which have put pressure on the distribution network.