VIDEO: Tinubu Calls for Stronger Measures on Farmer–Herder Clashes Speaking ahead of the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged the government to take stronger and more decisive steps to address the recurring conflicts between farmers and herders across Nigeria. #NigeriaNews #Tinubu #SecurityUpdates #FEC

ECOWAS Slashes Air Travel Taxes and Charges to Boost Regional Connectivity West African leaders have taken a major step to make flying within the region significantly cheaper, adopting measures that will abolish multiple air transport taxes and cut passenger and security charges by 25 percent starting 1 January 2026. The decision was reached at the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government Summit held in Abuja in December 2024, where leaders signed a Supplementary Act on Aviation Charges, Taxes and Fees aimed at tackling one of the biggest barriers to regional integration: the high cost of intra-African air travel. For years, West Africa has had some of the world’s most expensive airfares relative to distance, largely due to a web of taxes, fuel surcharges, security fees and other levies imposed by individual countries. The new policy requires all 15 ECOWAS member states to eliminate designated air transport taxes entirely and reduce remaining passenger service and security charges by a quarter. The move is expected to lower ticket prices, stimulate tourism and business travel, strengthen local airlines and support trade, and advance the free movement of people and goods – a core objective of the ECOWAS Treaty. To ensure compliance, the ECOWAS Commission will oversee implementation through a newly established Regional Air Transport Economic Oversight Mechanism. Regional aviation stakeholders have welcomed the decision, describing it as a game-changer for West Africa’s Africa’s chronically under-served air transport market. The reforms will take effect on 1 January 2026, giving airlines and national authorities one year to adjust systems and regulations.

BREAKING: This morning in Bukkuyum LGA, Zamfara State, an explosive device reportedly detonated along Gwashi–Gurusu road, impacting a vehicle and a motorcycle and resulting in several death. According to residents, people remained at the scene awaiting an official response until authorities recently confirmed that the road was safe again. What triggered the attack, and when will emergency support reach those affected?

PRP Rejects Rumoured Defection of Bauchi Governor Bala Muhammad, Says He Is Not Welcome The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Bauchi State has dismissed reports suggesting Governor Bala Muhammad plans to defect to the party following the alleged collapse of the PDP. In a statement, PRP State Secretary Wada Abdullahi stated that the party has “set clear boundaries” and would not accept the governor, citing his alleged poor performance, disorderly conduct, and policies considered detrimental to the state. The party vowed to investigate his administration if it wins power in 2027 and reverse controversial decisions, including the creation of a First Class Emirate and the appointment of his brother as Emir. While rejecting Bala Muhammad, the PRP stressed that it remains open to individuals who have positively contributed to Bauchi’s development.

Accord Party Clears Governor Ademola Adeleke as Sole Candidate for Osun Governorship Primary Governor Ademola Adeleke has been officially cleared as the sole aspirant for the Accord Party’s governorship primary scheduled to hold in Osogbo. The party’s screening committee confirmed that Adeleke met all requirements and completed all necessary documentation, presenting him with a certificate of clearance. Adeleke expressed gratitude and affirmed his readiness for both the primary and the general election. His clearance follows his recent resignation from the PDP over internal leadership crises and subsequent announcement of his defection to the Accord Party.

Lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor Condemns Deadly Attack on Anambra Church, Demands Justice for Victims Human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor has strongly condemned the deadly attack on St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Lilu, Anambra State, describing it as a sacrilegious assault on faith and humanity. Two worshippers, including a cleric’s wife, were killed when armed men invaded the church during early Sunday worship preparations. Ejiofor demanded swift justice, criticised the slow pace of investigations, and urged security agencies and the Anambra government to ensure the perpetrators are tracked down and prosecuted. He consoled affected families and warned against normalising violence in sacred places of worship.

Ghana Summons Israeli Envoy, Condemns Detention of Officials and Threatens Diplomatic Retaliation Ghana has sharply criticised Israel after seven Ghanaian travellers — including four lawmakers attending an international cybersecurity conference — were detained at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv on December 7. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the treatment as discriminatory, inhumane, and a betrayal of over 60 years of diplomatic ties. While the lawmakers were released after more than five hours of interrogation, three other travellers were deported. Ghana dismissed Israel’s justification of “non-cooperation” from its embassy as false and has summoned the Israeli envoy in Accra to lodge a formal protest. The government warned that reciprocal measures affecting visas, travel, and bilateral programmes are now being considered.

PDP Warns Nigeria Sliding Into Authoritarianism After Governor Fubara Defects to APC The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the defection of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing his justification as “pitiful” and accusing the ruling party of weaponizing state power to coerce political actors. In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, the PDP said Fubara’s move reflects a growing erosion of democratic institutions and a dangerous shift toward authoritarian governance under President Bola Tinubu. The party warned that Nigeria is “visibly inching toward a one-party state,” urging citizens and the international community to resist what it calls a deepening decline of democratic norms.

NPHCDA Confirms Use of Soldiers to Escort Vaccination Teams in Insecurity-Hit Northern Communities The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has confirmed that soldiers are now escorting vaccination teams into communities heavily affected by insurgency and banditry across northern Nigeria. Speaking in Abuja, Director of Disease and Immunisation Rufai Ahmed revealed that military support is being used in “real difficult areas” to ensure child immunisation continues despite insecurity. He noted that over 202,000 children in Kebbi and Bayelsa have received the R21 malaria vaccine since December 2024, while Nigeria still has about 2.1 million zero-dose children, mostly in conflict-hit northern states. The agency says it has tracked and vaccinated more than 500,000 previously unreached children and recruited thousands of frontline workers, many serving in militarised zones. Officials insist they will continue pushing vaccination into remote and dangerous communities, even if it requires military escorts, to prevent children from dying of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Amnesty International Slams Nigerian Military Over Killing of Female Protesters in Adamawa Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian military for the killing of at least nine unarmed female protesters in Lamorde, Adamawa State, calling the incident a horrific and unlawful use of excessive force. The rights group said soldiers fired live ammunition without warning, leaving many women with gunshot wounds to the head, chest, back, and limbs—some with multiple bullet injuries, indicating indiscriminate shooting. Amnesty also criticised the government’s slow and ineffective response to escalating communal violence between the Bachama and Chobo ethnic groups, warning that repeated failures to investigate human rights violations are eroding respect for human life in Nigeria.

Former AGF Abubakar Malami Detained Overnight as EFCC Probes 46 Bank Accounts Former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami (SAN) spent Monday night in EFCC custody as investigators deepened their probe into over 46 bank accounts and multiple controversial transactions linked to his tenure. Malami, who was reportedly searching for two permanent secretaries to meet his bail conditions, had earlier been questioned in November over allegations he dismissed as fabricated. The ongoing investigation revisits major financial dealings, including the $496m Ajaokuta Steel settlement, sale of forfeited assets, the $419m Paris Club refund judgment debt, the Mambilla power project compensation, and alleged duplication of legal fees in the Abacha loot recovery. Despite mounting scrutiny, Malami has declared his 2027 Kebbi governorship ambition after defecting to the ADC.

Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke Dumps PDP, Joins Accord Party Amid National Leadership Crisis Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has officially resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), citing unresolved crises within the party’s national leadership. In a letter addressed to his ward chairman in Ede North, Adeleke confirmed his withdrawal from the PDP effective November 4, 2025, while expressing gratitude for the party’s role in his rise as senator and governor. On Tuesday, he formally announced his defection to the Accord Party, confirming earlier speculations about his next political move.

BREAKING NEWS: Rivers state Governor Fubara Defects To APC

JUST IN: President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (retd.) as the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, effective December 1, 2025.

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.

CITAD Urges Nigerian Government to Protect Activists, End Politicisation of Cybercrime Laws The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has warned that Nigeria’s cybercrime laws are increasingly being misused to target activists, journalists, and whistleblowers. In its statement marking the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day, the organisation said digital spaces are now vulnerable to corruption, surveillance abuse, and political manipulation. CITAD called for stronger digital accountability, protection of civic freedoms, full implementation of the FOI Act, and better safeguards for online critics and whistleblowers. It stressed that Nigeria cannot effectively fight corruption without securing its digital civic space.

ARMY, EFCC in Fresh Synergy against Graft in Edo The Commander, 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General A. O. Balogun has pledged the support of the Nigeria Army to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its fight against corruption, economic and financial crimes. Balogun made this pledge on Monday December 8, 2025 while on a courtesy visit to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Commission. According to the General, who recently assumed office as the Commander of 4 Brigade, Benin City, the EFCC needs the support of every Nigerian given its role as the foremost anti-corruption agency in Nigeria. The General further noted that the Commission needed the support of critical stakeholders to successfully block or trace the movement of funds to nip financial offences in the bud. "If we can detect the flow of funds, we can nip such crimes in the bud." He disclosed that the Commission and the military has had a long history of collaboration, including training of personnel, curtailing illegal oil bunkering and a host of others . "One of the reasons for our visit is to familiarise ourselves with the leadership of the Commission so that we can build on the existing relationships between the two institutions. It is not about competition but about collaboration. It doesn't matter who kills the snake as much as the snake is killed." He revealed the military is willing to collaborate and offer any kind of support to the Commission whenever it is called upon to do so. Responding, the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin, Deputy Commander of the Commission, DCE Sa'ad Hanafi Sa'ad commended the army general and his men for their visit. He noted that synergy and collaboration were crucial as no single agency or institution can effectively eliminate crimes and criminality in the society. 'We build synergy and collaborate with relevant stakeholders and the Nigeria Army is a critical stakeholder. Our interest and your interest are the same, which is to have a better Nigeria and so we are willing to collaborate with you."

Twenty-One Economic Miracles Currently Happening Under President Tinubu One: Our foreign reserves have crossed the $45 billion mark for the first time in six years. It is now the fourth-highest on the African continent. Two: The prudent management of our foreign reserves under President Tinubu has led to a 3.93% GDP growth in the immediate past quarter and 4.23% growth in the quarter before that (Q2, 2025). Three: Nigeria, under President Tinubu, has, within two years, moved from being Africa's biggest petrol importer to becoming West Africa's largest exporter of the same product. Four: For the first time in over a decade, Nigeria has overshot its OPEC quota for three consecutive months and is set to do the same for the fourth month, producing an average of 1.71 million barrels per day. Five: President Tinubu gave Nigerian airlines direct flights to London's Gatwick Airport, United Kingdom, London's Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom, São Paulo, Brazil, Bogotá, Colombia, Entebbe, Uganda, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Algiers, Algeria, and St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean. Six: Oil theft has been reduced to less than 10,000 barrels per day, a sixteen-year low. Seven: Nigeria achieved its revenue target for the entire year in August, a first in our history. Eight: The Nigerian Stock Exchange rose above 130,000 All Share Index for the first time ever. Nine: Our economy expanded by $67 billion in just two years, moving Nigeria's GDP from a ₦269.29 trillion economy on May 29, 2023, when Asiwaju became President, to ₦372.8 trillion today. Ten: Between January and August 2025, non-oil tax revenue was ₦20.59 trillion, a 40.5% increase from the ₦14.6 trillion recorded in the corresponding period in 2024. Eleven: MTN Nigeria Limited hit a record valuation of ₦10 trillion, the first Nigerian company to do so. Twelve: Food prices have fallen significantly, resulting in a drop in inflation to 16.05% at present, down from 20.12% in August 2025, a 1.76% decline from July's 21.88%. Thirteen: Dangote and other retailers have crashed fuel prices below ₦1000. Fourteen: The Naira has stabilised and is now below ₦1500 to $, making it among the world's best-performing currencies, according to Fitch Ratings. Fifteen: Nigeria broke its power generation record with a peak generation of 5,801.84MW and maximum daily energyoutput of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours (MWh), the highest ever attained in the history of the electricity industry in Nigeria. Sixteen: After a record trade surplus last year, Nigeria appears set to beat its 2024 figure. Our trade surplus rose 44.3% in Q2 to ₦7.46 trillion, up from ₦5.17 trillion in Q1. Seventeen: In a sign of an improving economy, the Central Bank of Nigeria reduced interest rates by 50 basis points to 27%, the first time since the #COVID19 pandemic. Eighteen: Fitch and S&P Global Ratings upgraded Nigeria's economy to a Stable B. Nineteen: Two PhDs in economics, in the persons of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, and the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and incumbent Governor of Anambra, Dr Chukwuma Soludo, both confirmed that President Tinubu has "stabilised the economy". Twenty: Rail transport expanded in Nigeria by 43.08% in Q2 2025. Twenty-one: Road transport expanded by 24.50% in Q2 2025, driven by the ₦13 trillion 1,068-kilometre Illela-Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, and the ₦15 trillion 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, currently under construction. Bonus: Student loans were awarded to an unprecedented 500,000 students, with hundreds of thousands more awaiting their loans. Effective rebranding projects a positive image of what is happening. It is the best way to neutralise enemies of the nation who want to overwhelm the airwaves with negative information. If you are a patriot who loves Nigeria and wants your country to progress, please spread this truthful message. Reno Omokri

Northern States Governors' Forum Appoints Ezekiel Gomos as Director-General to Strengthen Regional Coordination The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), under the leadership of its Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has approved the appointment of Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, OFR, as Director-General of the Forum’s Secretariat. The appointment is in line with the Forum’s renewed commitment to strengthening its institutional capacity and improving coordination among the 19 northern states in addressing the region’s pressing challenges. According to the Forum, creating the office of Director-General is a strategic step towards repositioning the Secretariat as a more effective hub for policy coordination, collective action and long-term development planning. Mr. Gomos, a former Secretary to the Plateau State Government, is an accomplished development economist and policy expert with a distinguished career spanning public service, governance reform, private-sector development and human capital advancement. His experience includes senior roles in high-impact institutions such as the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). In addition, he has been Lead Consultant and Head of Faculty at the Jos Business School (JBS), a centre dedicated to entrepreneurship development, leadership training, and policy dialogue. For nearly two decades, Mr. Gomos has served as a resource person at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, contributing to the training of senior leaders across Nigeria in policy, strategy and national development. The new DG's academic credentials include graduate and postgraduate degrees from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and the University of East Anglia, UK. He is also a recipient of several prestigious international fellowships, including the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (University of Minnesota), the British Chevening Scholarship and the UNDP Fellowship at the ILO Training Centre in Turin. Gomos has attended senior executive programmes at Harvard Kennedy School, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and Durham University Business School. Presenting the appointment letter, Governor Inuwa Yahaya charged Mr. Gomos to apply his extensive expertise in strategic leadership, institutional development and policy management to strengthen the NSGF Secretariat into a robust platform for collective security coordination, regional economic cooperation and sustainable development across the North. The NSGF Chairman expressed confidence that the appointment will usher in a new era of deeper collaboration, improved coordination and more coherent regional responses to the North’s most critical challenges.

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