Almajiri System Must Be Dismantled to End Insecurity — Peace Group Warns


The Foundation for Peace Professionals has warned that Nigeria’s insecurity will persist unless the Almajiri system is decisively dismantled within the next five years. The group said millions of unschooled and neglected children remain vulnerable to crime, radicalisation and exploitation. It cautioned that continued government inaction could worsen violence and social instability, posing serious threats not only to Nigeria’s national security but also to peace and stability across the wider West African subregion.

Kaduna Abductions: US Urges Nigeria To Strengthen Protection For Christians

The United States has called on the Nigerian government to step up efforts to protect Christian communities amid continued abductions and attacks, particularly in parts of Kaduna State.

Reacting to the concerns, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, said the Federal Government has taken deliberate and decisive actions to tackle insecurity. According to him, security agencies are carrying out intensified joint operations across affected areas to restore safety and prevent further attacks.

The call by the US comes as pressure mounts on authorities to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities and bring perpetrators to justice.

#Kaduna #InsecurityInNigeria #USNigeriaRelations #NationalSecurity

UK Politics: Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch backs Donald Trump, slamming the UK government’s deal to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.

Badenoch called the agreement “complete self-sabotage”, warning it weakens UK and NATO security and hands away sovereign territory. She said Trump was “right” to criticise PM Keir Starmer’s policy, which Trump labelled an act of “total weakness.”

The UK government insists the deal protects the Diego Garcia military base, but critics say it risks national security.

#UKPolitics #KemiBadenoch #Trump #ChagosIslands #NationalSecurity #BreakingNews

Ghana Arrests 53 Nigerians In Major Cybercrime Crackdown, Seizes Laptops, Phones, Guns

Ghanaian authorities have arrested 53 Nigerians in a major intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime hubs across the Greater Accra Region. The coordinated raids, carried out by national security agencies and police, uncovered organised cybercrime centres in areas including East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija and Tuba. Nine suspects were arrested as alleged coordinators, while 44 others were rescued as victims of trafficking and cybercrime exploitation. Security operatives seized 62 laptops, 52 mobile phones and two pump-action guns. The suspects have been handed over to Ghana Immigration as investigations continue.

#Cybercrime #GhanaNews #NigeriaGhana

BREAKING: Angry Nigerian Soldiers Threaten Mutiny Over Poor Salaries, Unpaid Allowances, Accuse Service Chiefs of Corruption

Fresh tension is brewing in the Nigerian Army as aggrieved soldiers warn that a mutiny may erupt if the Federal Government fails to address worsening welfare conditions. In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, the soldiers decried what they described as insulting salary increments following promotions, with some ranks receiving as little as ₦2,000–₦15,000 after five years of service. They accused military leadership of corruption, extortion, and selective implementation of allowances, noting that their counterparts in the Navy and Air Force earn significantly higher increments. The soldiers lamented unpaid and partially implemented allowances dating back to 2017, saying poor pay has trapped many in debt. They warned that continued silence from authorities could push desperate troops toward lawlessness, a situation they say poses grave danger to national security.
#nigerian_army

₦4bn Monthly to Tompolo: Smart Security Strategy or Dangerous Precedent?

A claim has sparked intense debate after a man alleged that the Federal Government pays ex-militant leader Tompolo ₦4 billion every month to protect oil pipelines in the Niger Delta. The revelation has left many Nigerians questioning why a government responsible for national security would outsource such a critical task to a former militant.

Supporters argue it is a pragmatic move that leverages local influence to curb oil theft and vandalism. Critics, however, see it as a troubling signal—one that weakens state authority and normalizes privatized security for national assets.

So the big question remains: Is this strategic thinking or sheer recklessness?

#NigeriaPolitics #NigerDelta #OilSecurity #PublicDebate

NATO Allies Deploy Troops to Greenland Amid Trump’s Push for U.S. Control

Several NATO countries, including France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway, have deployed troops to Greenland under “Operation Arctic Endurance,” a joint exercise led by Denmark to strengthen Arctic security. The deployment comes amid former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed calls for American control of Greenland, citing national security and the risk of Russian and Chinese influence. Denmark and Greenland insist on maintaining sovereignty, while NATO allies aim to reassure the population. The situation has intensified diplomatic tensions, highlighting Greenland’s strategic importance in Arctic defense and global geopolitics.

#GreenlandSecurity #NATOArctic #USPolitics

Nigeria Approves $9m US Lobbying Deal To Ease Tensions With Trump Administration Over Christian Killings, Insecurity, and Travel Restrictions

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has approved a controversial $9 million lobbying contract with Washington-based DCI Group to persuade the Trump administration and key U.S. lawmakers that Nigeria is taking concrete action against insecurity, including the killings of Christians in northern Nigeria. U.S. Justice Department filings show an initial $4.5 million payment was made in December 2025, with another $4.5 million due by July 2026. The deal follows Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” a partial U.S. travel ban, and a U.S. military airstrike in Sokoto targeting insurgent hideouts. The lobbying effort, facilitated by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu through Aster Legal, aims to maintain U.S. support against jihadist groups and improve strained diplomatic relations. Additional outreach included a letter from Senate President Godswill Akpabio inviting U.S. lawmakers to visit Abuja. Analysts say the contract signals urgency by Tinubu’s government to reset ties with Washington.

Trump Declares Emergency to Lock Down Venezuela’s Oil Funds in U.S. Treasury

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order declaring a national emergency to block courts, creditors, and private parties from seizing Venezuelan oil revenue held in U.S. Treasury accounts.

The White House said the funds—classified as Foreign Government Deposit Funds—are now fully protected from attachment, judgment, liens, or any form of legal action. The order also bans any transfer or use of the money unless explicitly authorised by the U.S. government.

According to the administration, allowing the funds to be accessed would undermine U.S. foreign policy goals, weaken efforts to stabilise Venezuela, and threaten regional security. Officials linked the decision to concerns over illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and the influence of hostile foreign actors.

The White House warned that losing control of the oil revenues could strengthen groups such as Iran and Hezbollah while crippling initiatives aimed at restoring political and economic stability in Venezuela and across the Western Hemisphere.

The move forms part of Trump’s hardline “America First” approach to Venezuela. His administration has designated several criminal groups as terrorist organisations, imposed strict measures on oil shipments, and authorised aggressive action against narcotics networks operating in the region.

Earlier on the same day, Trump met with top oil executives, revealing plans for large-scale U.S. investment in Venezuela’s energy sector. He said the deals could involve “hundreds of billions of dollars,” boost oil production, and drive prices down globally.

The White House described the executive order as a strategic step to safeguard U.S. national security interests while maintaining control over Venezuela’s most critical financial asset.

Was Ondo Governor’s Security Compromised? Protocol Chiefs Accused of Swapping Convoy Drivers Without Clearance Amid Rising Safety Fears

A serious security controversy has emerged within the Ondo State Government following allegations that top protocol officials authorized a change of drivers in the governor’s convoy without security clearance, a move insiders describe as a dangerous breach of established procedure. The incident has reportedly heightened tension inside Government House and raised concerns about vulnerabilities in the governor’s protective arrangements.

According to multiple security sources, the Chief of Protocol (CoP), Mr. Olasanya Abayomi, and the Director of Protocol (DoP), Barr. Asonja George, allegedly ordered the replacement of convoy drivers without informing the Chief Security Officer (CSO) or the Aide-de-Camp (ADC)—the two officers legally responsible for coordinating the governor’s personal security.

Security experts within the government described the action as a “grave breach of protocol,” stressing that no driver attached to the governor’s convoy should be changed without clearance from the CSO and ADC. One senior official told SaharaReporters that bypassing this chain of command constitutes a serious security violation, especially at a time of heightened national security concerns.

The development is said to have unsettled junior officers and deepened mistrust among senior officials, with insiders warning that internal lapses of this nature could weaken confidence in the state’s security architecture. Some officials expressed fears that overlapping authority between protocol and security units could create confusion and expose the governor to potential risks.

More troubling are allegations that the Chief of Protocol may be acting in concert with unnamed individuals to politically undermine the governor’s security structure. Although no concrete evidence has been made public, the claims have intensified calls for an independent investigation, with sources insisting that the governor’s safety must not be subjected to internal power struggles or administrative shortcuts.

Stakeholders are now urging the Ondo State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently probe the incident, determine accountability, and restore confidence in the state’s protective operations. Civil society actors have also called for the two officials involved to step aside pending investigations, arguing that doing so would reassure the public and demonstrate institutional accountability.

However, the state government has pushed back against claims of a security breach. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, denied that the governor’s safety was compromised, confirming instead that the driver changes were part of a routine annual reshuffle. He explained that all drivers fall under the supervision of the Chief of Protocol and that similar reassignments also affected other units, including the media and ambulance services.

Despite this official explanation, security analysts argue that the episode highlights a deeper structural issue: the need for clear coordination between protocol and security departments. Experts warn that when protocol functions override established security procedures, it can create vulnerabilities that may be exploited.

As the controversy continues, one key question remains: Was the governor’s security genuinely compromised, or was this merely an administrative routine that was misinterpreted? The answer may depend on the outcome of any investigation and whether the state government moves to review and strengthen its internal security and protocol processes.

NAF ACCELERATES ACQUISITION OF 12 AH-1Z ATTACK HELICOPTERS TO ENHANCE SECURITY

In a strategic move to enhance the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force the Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron in San Diego, California, USA.

The engagement focused on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a critical capability enhance professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in attainment of national security objectives.

A Statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States Government and Messrs Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme.

The Air Chief noted that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represents more than a platform upgrade, describing it as a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.

Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time while expressing gratitude to president Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Airforce as regards platform acquisition

Air Marshal Sunday Aneke reassured Nigerians of the NAF’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, restraint, and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in the Service’s operations.

DSS Deploys 50+ Operatives to Kuje Prison Amid Abubakar Malami Bail in N8.7B Money Laundering Case

The Department of State Services (DSS) has deployed over 50 operatives to Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Abuja, placing the prison under heavy security following the bail granted to former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami. The move is reportedly a precautionary measure to ensure Malami does not evade investigations related to terrorism financing, despite the fact that the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) focus on money laundering.

Malami, currently remanded at Kuje Prison, was granted bail on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Bail conditions include ₦500 million surety bonds, ownership of landed property in highbrow districts such as Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, deposit of travel documents, and an absolute ban on leaving Nigeria without prior court permission. The bail hearing was part of a 16-count charge filed against Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and his wife Bashir Asabe, collectively accused of laundering ₦8.7 billion.

Sources describe a tense atmosphere at Kuje, with DSS operatives stationed strategically, monitoring all entries and exits, using approximately six Toyota Hilux vans to maintain control over the prison perimeter. The deployment highlights the critical nature of the ongoing investigation.

Background reports indicate that Malami’s legal and financial activities have previously intersected with broader terrorism financing investigations led by retired Nigerian Army General Danjuma Ali-Keffi under Operation Service Wide (OSW). The operation, initiated in 2021, aimed to track financial networks linked to Boko Haram and uncovered alleged links between some high-profile officials—including former Army Chiefs Tukur Yusuf Buratai and Faruk Yahaya, as well as Malami and former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele—and suspects arrested for terrorism financing.

Ali-Keffi clarified that he was not accusing these officials of terrorism financing but stated that investigations revealed connections between them and some suspects. He also alleged that Malami had interfered with the OSW investigation by removing a senior prosecution lawyer who had resisted compromises on cases involving 48 terrorism financing suspects.

The DSS deployment, combined with the stringent bail conditions, reflects the high stakes and sensitivity surrounding Malami’s ongoing trial and the broader investigations into the alleged misuse of funds tied to insurgent activities.

The unfolding situation has drawn attention to the intersection of high-level corruption, terrorism financing, and law enforcement accountability in Nigeria, signaling the continued involvement of multiple agencies in overseeing cases with national security implications.

Zamfara Govt Accuses Defence Minister Matawalle of Using NSA Office to Target Opposition Figures

The Zamfara State Government has accused the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, of allegedly using the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to intimidate and harass opposition figures in the state. The claim was made in a press statement by Sulaiman Bala Idris, spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, highlighting concerns over the politicisation of national security institutions.

The government alleged that Saleem Abubakar, a Technical Assistant in the Zamfara Governor’s office, was abducted in Abuja by operatives linked to the NSA without an arrest warrant. According to the statement, Abubakar was moved between undisclosed locations, raising fears of a deliberate attempt to conceal his whereabouts.

Zamfara officials described the alleged actions as a dangerous abuse of power and a threat to democratic norms, warning that such incidents could tarnish Nigeria’s democratic credentials and international reputation. The statement urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure due process is followed, stressing that legal charges should be preferred over illegal abductions.

The state government vowed to monitor the situation closely, promising to pursue justice and hold accountable any parties involved in what it termed federal impunity. This development has intensified debates around the intersection of politics and national security in Nigeria, highlighting rising concerns over the misuse of security agencies for political purposes.

“Burkina Faso Foils Assassination Plot Against Military Leader Traoré, Linked to Former Leader Damiba”

Burkina Faso’s security services have successfully foiled a fresh assassination attempt targeting Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader, according to Security Minister Mahamadou Sana. The plot was allegedly orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, Traoré’s predecessor, who was ousted in September 2022. Authorities report that the plan involved not only assassinating Traoré but also launching attacks on strategic institutions and prominent civilian figures.
Minister Sana added that the operation was financed from neighboring Ivory Coast, though neither Damiba nor Ivorian authorities have issued statements in response.
Since assuming power in 2022, Traoré, 37, has faced multiple coup attempts and continues to deal with jihadist violence that has displaced millions across the country. Despite these challenges, Traoré maintains a measure of domestic support and has gained recognition across Africa. He is known for criticizing Western influence and advocating pan-Africanist ideas.
In response to the foiled plot, Burkina Faso has tightened security around government installations and is monitoring border regions, particularly with Ivory Coast. This latest incident follows previous coup attempts, including one in April 2025, in which current and former soldiers planned attacks on the presidential palace and other key locations.
The ongoing instability in Burkina Faso is compounded by jihadist attacks and a humanitarian crisis, affecting both national security and civilian safety. Authorities continue to investigate the foiled assassination attempt as part of broader efforts to protect the military leadership and maintain national stability.

Kwara Police Clear, Release Six ‘Armed Men’ Initially Linked to Miyetti Allah After Investigation, Say They Are Legitimate Vigilantes in Federal Security Operation Against Banditry

The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the investigation and release of six armed men earlier alleged to be members of Miyetti Allah, stating that the individuals were legitimate vigilante operatives working with recognised security agencies in a federal security operation.

The men were initially arrested by Nigerian Army personnel along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State while travelling in a vehicle belonging to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. Their interception, reportedly with AK-47 rifles, triggered widespread concern and speculation over possible links to armed groups operating across the North-Central region.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the suspects were formally handed over to the Kwara Police Command by the 22 Armoured Brigade for investigation and profiling. According to police findings, the men were exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing and identified as members of a vigilante group collaborating with security agencies in efforts to combat banditry and other criminal activities. They were subsequently released to their leaders.

Earlier, the Kwara State Government had clarified that the men were part of a federal security initiative coordinated through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). This followed public outrage after reports suggested soldiers had intercepted armed individuals believed to be bandits, who allegedly claimed sponsorship by the “Ilorin government.”

Further explanations by state officials revealed that the individuals were members of Miyetti Allah incorporated into a Joint Task Force–style security arrangement after deadly attacks in Ifelodun Local Government Area in September 2025. According to the governor’s aides, the operation involved recognised security officers alongside local vigilantes and Miyetti Allah members, with logistical support provided through local government channels.

Officials also disclosed that after completing their assignment, the men allegedly absconded with a patrol vehicle, prompting security agencies to track and arrest them in Edo State. The state government later requested the return of the vehicle. Authorities clarified that the suspects were neither arrested within Kwara nor linked to any bandit activity.

The police reaffirmed their commitment to inter-agency collaboration and lawful community-based security operations, assuring residents that security agencies remain focused on safeguarding lives and property across Kwara State.

Police Arrest Port Harcourt Pastor Over Alleged Plot to Assassinate FCT Minister Wike, Hunt Underway for Ex-Rivers SSG

Security operatives from the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) have detained Dr. Tombari Joseph Gbeneol, a medical doctor and pastor of Life Forte Chapel Church in Port Harcourt, over an alleged plan to assassinate FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The arrest followed the interception of a phone call between Gbeneol and former Rivers State Secretary to the Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, in which they allegedly discussed hiring Israeli nationals to carry out the assassination and seeking funding from Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Police confirmed Gbeneol is in custody, with investigations ongoing. Authorities are still searching for Danagogo, who reportedly went underground after the plot was uncovered. Security sources described the case as a grave national security threat.

Opinion: SKC Ogbonnia Exposes Tinubu’s Indifference to Nigeria’s Security Crisis Amid Trump Threat

In a compelling opinion piece titled “Nigeria Is Dead”, political analyst Bayo Oluwasanmi and commentator SKC Ogbonnia criticize President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis. The authors highlight widespread atrocities by Boko Haram, Fulani terrorists, and bandits, including reports of civilians witnessing family members being murdered.

According to Ogbonnia, Tinubu prioritized politics over national security, focusing on propaganda, foreign trips, and protection of VIPs while neglecting citizens’ safety. The regime allegedly displayed complicity in the insurgency, with high-budget allocations failing to curb insecurity.

The narrative shifted only after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened military action against Nigeria for failing to address terrorism effectively. Following Trump’s warning, Tinubu reportedly redirected resources, ordered redeployment of security personnel from VIP protection to national security duties, and initiated plans to tackle insurgent hideouts.

Ogbonnia concludes that Tinubu’s prior inaction, political calculation, and indifference amount to a gross abuse of office, making his continued presidency an existential threat to Nigeria. The piece warns that without electoral reforms and accountability, the 2027 elections may favor Tinubu despite the country’s deep-seated crises.

Author: SKC Ogbonnia, former APC Presidential Aspirant, Ugbo, Enugu State, Nigeria.

“I’ve Been Marked for Elimination as Boko Haram Figure” — Sheikh Gumi Alleges Abuja Security Plot, Blames US and Foreign Interference for Nigeria’s Insecurity

Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has claimed that he was secretly warned by security sources in Abuja that his name appeared on a list of individuals allegedly marked for elimination as Boko Haram figures. Speaking to his congregation, Gumi said he received an early-morning phone call from an unidentified source who informed him that his name was mentioned during high-level national security discussions.

Gumi alleged that the plan involved foreign forces, accusing the United States of targeting him and blaming American policies for the emergence and sustenance of Boko Haram insurgents. He argued that foreign-backed narratives had deepened Nigeria’s insecurity and worsened religious and social divisions, while falsely portraying Christians as the sole victims of violence.

The cleric further accused Nigerian political and religious leaders of remaining silent in the face of growing hardship, oppression, and insecurity, saying their failure to engage in honest dialogue had left the country fragmented and fearful. He warned that continued silence and division among leaders and scholars would further drag Nigeria into crisis, stressing that no sovereign nation should tolerate external interference designed to divide its people along religious or social lines.

US Ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Slams Trump Over Venezuela Military Strikes, Accuses White House Of Violating Constitution And Bypassing Congress

Former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has sharply criticised President Donald Trump’s administration over recent U.S. military strikes in Venezuela, accusing the White House of violating constitutional war powers and sidelining Congress. In a statement issued on January 3, 2026, Pelosi argued that the administration failed to demonstrate any urgent national security threat that would justify the use of military force against Venezuela.

She said President Trump showed blatant disregard for Article One of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress authority over war decisions, warning that such actions undermine the country’s system of checks and balances. Pelosi also questioned the administration’s justification if the operation was based on drug trafficking allegations against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, describing it as hypocritical in light of Trump’s recent pardon of former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was convicted in the U.S. on similar drug charges.

Calling for accountability, Pelosi demanded immediate congressional oversight and full briefings on the scope, objectives, and consequences of the military action, including its potential regional fallout. She stressed that Congress must be informed about the strikes and any plans for regime change in Venezuela to safeguard democratic governance and constitutional order.

Tinubu Vows Stronger International Security Cooperation in 2026 to Eliminate Terrorists, Boost Peace, and Safeguard Nigeria’s Sovereignty

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and criminal threats in Nigeria through stronger collaboration with regional and global partners in 2026. In his New Year message to Nigerians, the President stressed that economic reforms and national development cannot succeed without peace, security, and stability.

Tinubu acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing the country, noting that criminal and terrorist groups continue to threaten lives and national unity. He disclosed that Nigeria has already carried out joint counter-terrorism operations with international partners, including the United States, citing the December 24 airstrikes against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest. According to him, military operations have continued across the Northwest and Northeast to dismantle terror networks and criminal strongholds.

Looking ahead, the President said Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies will deepen international cooperation in 2026 to eliminate all threats to national security. He reiterated the government’s resolve to protect citizens, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while also restating his support for security sector reforms such as decentralised policing and the deployment of properly regulated forest guards to combat terrorism and banditry effectively.

Beyond security, Tinubu said 2026 would mark a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. He announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through grassroots economic activities across the country’s 8,809 wards. The President added that investments in agriculture, trade, mining, and critical infrastructure—including roads, power, ports, railways, healthcare, and education—will continue without interruption.

Calling for unity and shared responsibility, Tinubu urged Nigerians to support nation-building efforts with patriotism and integrity. He concluded by wishing citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while praying for the safety of Nigeria’s troops and the defeat of forces threatening the nation’s peace and stability.