The United States Coast Guard, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, has intercepted a Nigerian-owned supertanker, Skipper, over allegations of crude oil theft, piracy, and other transnational crimes. Authorities said the tanker was illegally flying the Guyanese flag at the time of the arrest. In response, Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) confirmed that Skipper is not on its national ship registry and that the vessel was using the flag without authorization.

BREAKING: The United States Coast Guard, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, has intercepted a Nigerian-owned supertanker, Skipper, over allegations of crude oil theft, piracy, and other transnational crimes. Authorities said the tanker was illegally flying the Guyanese flag at the time of the arrest. In response, Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) confirmed that Skipper is not on its national ship registry and that the vessel was using the flag without authorization.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Detective Amber Leist, a 12-year veteran and devoted mother of two sons, tragically lost her life on Sunday while performing an act of kindness. Off-duty, Detective Leist stopped her vehicle to help an elderly pedestrian who had fallen in the street. After assisting the person to safety, she was struck by a passing car as she returned to her own vehicle. Despite immediate aid from the driver and rapid transport to the hospital, she passed away. Sheriff Alex Villanueva @AlexVilanueva33 called her “an outstanding detective who led by example.” Leist is survived by her 17-year-old son and her 20-year-old son, who serves in the U.S. Navy. Rest in peace, Detective Leist. Your selfless heart and service will never be forgotten. (Photo: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office

Ondo Youth Brutalised by Naval Officers Battles for Life as Navy Redeploys Accused Commanding Officer Gbenga Omogbemi, an Ilaje youth brutally assaulted by naval personnel over an alleged theft of $9,000 belonging to Navy Captain Aliyu Usman, remains in critical condition despite earlier reports claiming he had died. The Nigerian Navy has since redeployed Captain Usman, who was accused of leading multiple violent operations in Ilaje communities, including destruction of property, arson, killings, harassment, and repeated sexual assaults. Residents say the officers invaded Obejedo, Obe-Adun, and Obe-Nla on October 19, destroying property worth millions and leaving several people missing. Community members insist the Navy fabricated claims of illegal refining, while activists defending the victims have reportedly been arrested. They are calling for a full investigation and justice. #OndoState #NigerianNavy #HumanRightsAbuse

NEVER FORGET that Trump DECLINED Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro’s offer of a dominant stake in Venezuela’s oil, gold, and mineral wealth along with agreeing to cut ties with Russia and China. Trump instead sent 10,000+ troops and 10% of the entire U.S. Navy to the region.

🚨 PRESIDENT TRUMP has posted the exact US law that seditious Sen. Mark Kelly, and other Congressional Democrats, likely violated 👀 “DO WHAT HAS TO BE DONE!!!” 🔥 “There are laws that impact our Nation. Read Title 18, Chapter 115, Section 2387, “Whoever with the intent to interfere, impair, influence the loyalty, moral or discipline of the military and Naval Forces,……to be fined or imprisoned up to 10 years.” Commander Kirk Lippold, U.S. Navy, Ret. This is right on point.” Make an example or it happens AGAIN.

What Nigerians Can Do To Help President Tinubu Make Nigeria Secure Again It is not an overstatement to say that President Tinubu was created to lead our nation at a time like this. His declaration of a National Security Emergency and the powerful, actionable steps contained therein show that we finally have a leader with the political will and tactical ability to bell the cat that has proven most stubborn and elusive in the past. For too long, we have had a numbers challenge—i.e., we did not have enough troops to physically secure a population of 235 million with a landmass of almost 1 million square kilometres. Today, the President has provided strong leadership to address this lacuna in our national security architecture. And right-thinking Nigerians are grateful for this step to address this hateful scourge. Already, we have seen results in the recent and decent rescue of students in Kebbi State and worshippers in Kwara State. It is certain that more Tinubu wins will come. This recruitment into our military and paramilitary forces, along with the recall of 100,000 police officers previously on VIP protection detail, is a welcome development and step in the right direction that all Nigerians should support. I urge our people to enlist in our Army, Airforce, Navy, Police and paramilitary agencies. Furthermore, President Bola Tinubu taking the issue of State Police to the National Assembly in his National Emergency on Security is the most radically progressive step a Nigerian leader has done in the War on Terror since 1999. I not only commend the President, but also join in appealing to Parliament to make haste and hearken to, as well as hearten to, the President's call. If they do this, this tenth National Assembly will be the greatest Legislature in the history of democratic governance in Nigeria. I call on all Nigerians who want a secure country to contact their Senators and Representatives and ask them to support President Tinubu's initiative. Together, we can help the President fulfil his vision to secure Nigeria. Once again, we plead with the National Assembly to employ all means, including the Doctrine of Necessity. The nation will be on a sounder footing if our Parliament gives the right hand of fellowship to the President and helps make Nigeria Secure Again! Reno Omokri Gospeller. Deep Thinker. #TableShaker. Ruffler of the Feathers of Obidents. #1 Bestselling author of Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years. Hodophile. Hollywood Magazine Humanitarian of the Year, 2019. Business Insider Influencer of the Year, 2022. 21st Most Talked About Person in Africa, 2024.About Person in Africa, 2024.

Nigerian-American Naval Officer Kelechi Ndukwe Makes History Again, Appointed Commodore Of US Navy Destroyer Squadron 60 Nigerian-American naval officer Captain Kelechi Ndukwe has been appointed Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65, based in Rota, Spain. Ndukwe, who earlier became the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer—the USS Halsey (DDG-97)—was celebrated by U.S. Mission Nigeria as an inspiring figure and symbol of “American Excellence.” Ndukwe’s 20-year Navy career includes roles aboard the USS Normandy and USS Thorn in Norfolk, command of the USS Devastator in Bahrain, service in the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and leadership of the USS Halsey from 2021. A University of Notre Dame graduate with a master’s from the U.S. Naval War College, he was promoted to Navy Captain in 2024. His new appointment represents the highest point in his distinguished service.

Navy Officer Who had heated exchange with Wike ‘Escapes Assassination Attempt’ — Investigation Underway A young Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. A.M. Yarima the same officer who recently clashed with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reportedly survived an assassination attempt on Sunday evening. Military sources told Vanguard that unidentified men dressed in black, driving two unmarked Hilux vans without number plates, trailed the officer from the NIPCO Filling Station along the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way. Their coordinated movement reportedly raised immediate suspicion. Upon sensing the threat, Yarima executed a “strategic maneuver,” successfully shaking off the suspected assailants around 6:30 p.m. The matter is currently under investigation, with officials describing it as “sensitive” and insisting that certain details are being withheld to avoid compromising ongoing findings. This incident comes barely days after Yarima’s viral confrontation with Wike at a disputed land site in Gaduwa an exchange that sparked public outrage and forced the Presidency to halt the demolition exercise. Following the clash, military veterans nationwide condemned Wike’s conduct, labelling his verbal attack on the officer as disrespectful and unacceptable. Coalition spokesman, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, warned that ex-service members were prepared to “occupy” the minister’s office and residence if any disciplinary action was taken against Yarima, stressing that military personnel owe allegiance to the nation, not to individual officials. Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, later reassured the public that no officer acting lawfully would be punished, emphasising that the government remains committed to protecting personnel performing their duties professionally. Veterans had earlier vowed to mobilise across the country should Lt. Yarima face any form of penalty a threat many say reflects the depth of support the young officer currently enjoys.

Lieutenant Yarima escapes "assassination attempt" in Abuja days after engaging in tense confrontation with Wike. Nigerian Navy officer, Lt. A.M. Yarima, who recently had a confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, reportedly escaped an assassination attempt around 6:30pm on Sunday, Nov. 16. According to Vanguard, military sources stated that Yarima was trailed by some unknown men clad in black and riding in two unmarked Hilux vans with no number plates. The vehicles allegedly followed him from the NIPCO Filling Station off the Line Expressway to Gado Nasco Way. According to the source, Yarima noticed the men trailing him and executed a “strategic maneuver,” successfully evading the suspected assailants. The source added that the matter is under investigation and is receiving “the seriousness it deserves.” The source also disclosed to the publication that further details are being withheld so as not to compromise the investigation. This comes days after Lt. Yarima, while on duty with other security personnel, engaged in a tense confrontation with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed land site in Gaduwa District.

Land dispute: Top FCTA officials tender apology to Wike over brawl with Navy officer. Top officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have tendered an unreserved apology to the Minister, Nyesom Wike over his recent brawl with Navy Lieutenant AM Yerima in the Gaduwa area of Abuja on Tuesday, November 12. Wike and Yerima had engaged in a heated verbal altercation over a piece of land owned by a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo. The minister’s aide, Lere Olayinka had on Wednesday stated that Gambo was scammed off the property by an Abuja-based estate development and had no legal backing to deploy the use of military officers led by Yerima to guard the property and prevent FCTA officials including Wike from gaining access to the land. Reacting days after the incident, the staff of the administration on Thursday apologised to the minister over the controversial incident which had continued to make headlines.

I Don’t Have Any Problem With The Military” – Wike Speaks After Clash With Soldiers In Abuja. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dispelled any claims of a misunderstanding between himself and the Nigerian military. According to Wike, who spoke with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, he has no problem and would never have a problem with the military. His comments follow the altercation between him and an officer of the Nigerian Navy on Tuesday over the legality of an ongoing development of a land in Abuja, which has since snowballed into a matter of national discourse. However, in his chat with newsmen on Thursday, the FCT Minister stated that claims in certain quarters about a fallout between him and the Nigerian military are false, mischievous, and unfounded. He submitted that the Armed Forces is an institution he has utmost respect for, adding that his administration has remained steadfast in supporting military operations within the FCT and across Nigeria. “Let me make it clear I do not have any problem with the military and will never have. I have great respect for the institution and for the sacrifices they make to keep our nation safe,” he said. Addressing his comments during the heated confrontation which broke out on Tuesday in Abuja after soldiers prevented him and his entourage from accessing a parcel of land in the Gaduwa district, Wike said his words were taken out of context as he was only advocating for lawful conduct and adherence to constitutional principles by all security operatives. “What I said was simple no officer or individual should carry out an illegal order. If an instruction is unlawful, you have the right to say no. That does not mean I have a problem with the military.

Wike: We’ll Defend Every Officer on Lawful Duty, Says Minister of Defence, Badaru. According to a report by The Nation Nigeria on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has reiterated that the Ministry of Defence, alongside the Military High Command, will fully protect any soldier performing their duties lawfully. He gave the assurance during a press conference held on Wednesday at the National Defence College in Abuja, ahead of the Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration and Remembrance Day, 2026. Badaru’s comments came in response to questions about the recent confrontation in Abuja between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a Navy officer, Lieutenant AM Yerima, over the development of a land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd.). Speaking to journalists, the Defence Minister emphasized that the armed forces are committed to supporting personnel who act within the confines of the law. “At the Ministry of Defence, and indeed across the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers who are carrying out lawful duties,” Badaru stated. He continued, “We are currently reviewing the matter in question, and I want to assure everyone that any officer performing their responsibilities appropriately and in line with the law will be fully protected. We will ensure that no harm comes to them as long as they are fulfilling their duties responsibly and professionally.”

You Can't Shut Me Up, Look At You, You're My Junior You Can't Talk When I'm Talking-Lt. A.M Yerima. Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, a Nigerian Navy officer, has drawn public attention after a video shared by Channels Television captured him leading a team of soldiers to block an alleged attempt by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to demolish the property of former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd). In the footage, Yerima was seen standing firmly in front of police officers and officials from the FCT Administration who had arrived at the site to execute the demolition order. The naval officer resisted the move, insisting that the operation could not proceed without proper clearance from the appropriate authorities. As tensions rose, Yerima clashed verbally with one of the police officers who tried to intervene in the heated situation. The visibly angry officer said, “You cannot shut me up. Look at you, you are my junior, you cannot even talk when I’m talking.” His response drew gasps from bystanders, highlighting the intensity of the standoff between the two security agencies. Eyewitnesses reported that Yerima and his men successfully prevented the demolition team from entering the disputed property, located in an upscale district of Abuja. The building had earlier been marked for demolition by the FCT Administration over alleged violations of land use regulations.

“A Threat to National Security” — Buratai Slams Wike Over Clash with Naval Officer in Abuja In a bold statement that has stirred national debate, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd.), has warned that the recent altercation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a Nigerian Navy officer poses a “clear and present danger to national security.” Buratai, writing on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday, condemned Wike’s public confrontation with the officer, describing it as “a reckless act that undermines the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and the integrity of the Armed Forces.” The confrontation reportedly took place at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja, over a disputed parcel of land allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff. According to reports, Wike—accompanied by officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)—had arrived at the site to halt what he called an illegal construction. A viral video from the scene shows the minister angrily confronting the officer, declaring that “no one, not even the Chief of Naval Staff, is above the law.” The unnamed officer, however, maintained that the land belonged to a former service chief and was under legitimate military protection. Reacting to the viral footage, Buratai warned that Wike’s actions went beyond political theatrics. “A minister’s verbal assault on a uniformed officer is an act of profound indiscipline that strikes at the foundation of our national security,” he said. Buratai urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to view the situation as a serious national security concern, insisting that Wike must publicly apologize to the Commander-in-Chief, the Armed Forces, and the affected officer. “Our nation’s security must come first. It is time for decisive action, not politics of military bashing,” Buratai added. The incident continues to spark heated reactions across Nigeria, with military veterans and citizens debating the boundaries of ministerial authority and military respect under a democratic government.

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.

16 Senior Officers Detained Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu. Military authorities are continuing investigations into a foiled coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, and PREMIUM TIMES has obtained exclusive details on 16 officers currently detained in connection with the plot. According to security sources, 14 of the detained officers are from the Nigerian Army, with two others from the Navy and Air Force. Of the army personnel, 12 are from the Infantry Corps, one from the Signals Corps, and one from the Ordnance Corps. The ranks of those in custody include a brigadier general, a colonel, four lieutenant colonels, five majors, two captains and a lieutenant. The Navy officer is a lieutenant commander, while the Air Force officer holds the rank of squadron leader. Authorities have not issued a formal statement on the alleged plot, offering only a denial that it was linked to the scaled-down Independence Day celebrations on October 1. Key Officers Identified are: Brigadier General Musa Abubakar Sadiq, believed to be the alleged ringleader, is from Nasarawa State and a member of NDA Regular Course 44. He was previously detained in 2024 over alleged diversion of relief materials and military equipment. Colonel M.A. Ma’aji, from Niger State and a member of the 47 Regular Course, is suspected of playing a strategic planning role. He formerly commanded the 19 Battalion in Ondo State and served under Operation Delta Safe. Other officers include: Lt. Col S. Bappah (Signals Corps), Bauchi State, Lt. Col A.A. Hayatu (Infantry), Kaduna State, Lt. Col M. Almakura (Infantry), Nasarawa State, Majors A.J. Ibrahim, M.M. Jiddah, M.A. Usman, D. Yusuf, and I. Dauda, Captains Ibrahim Bello and A.A. Yusuf, Lt. S.S. Felix, Lt. Commander D.B. Abdullahi (Navy), Squadron Leader S.B. Adamu (Air Force) Sources say interrogations are ongoing, and details of alleged roles and motives have not yet been made public. The Defence Headquarters and the Presidency have remained silent. More updates are expected as investigations progress.

PROFILE OF NEW CDS, SERVICE CHIEFS AND CDI In a decisive move to tackle Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, President Bola Tinubu has carried out a major shake-up in the nation’s military leadership, replacing all the Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff. The sweeping changes, which also include new appointments for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, signal the President’s resolve to inject fresh strategy and renewed vigour into the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats confronting the country. https://x.com/i/status/1981827991299575867

NIDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri, Hails Nigerian’s Historic Promotion to U.S. Navy Commodore. The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has celebrated Captain Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian-American, on his historic promotion to the rank of Commodore in the United States Navy. In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu of its Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit on Friday, NIDCOM, under the leadership of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described Ndukwe’s achievement as a source of pride to Nigeria, the global naval community, and Nigerians in the diaspora. The statement read: “We congratulate Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe on his promotion to Commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60, and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65 of the United States Navy in Rota, Spain. This remarkable accomplishment highlights his professionalism, leadership, and dedication to advancing global maritime security.” In his new role, Commodore Ndukwe will oversee U.S. Navy destroyer operations across Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean. His career has been marked by trailblazing achievements, including making history in April 2021 as the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97). Odu noted that Ndukwe’s journey from the son of Nigerian immigrants to one of the highest-ranking officers in the U.S. Navy reflects resilience, discipline, and excellence. NIDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to honouring Nigerians abroad who embody hard work, honesty, and diligence, stressing that Ndukwe’s promotion exemplifies the positive impact of the diaspora and the limitless potential of Nigerians worldwide.

Rivers Residents Set For LG Elections In 6,866 Polling Units Residents of Rivers State will vote on Saturday in local government elections across 6,866 polling units in 23 LGAs, six months after the Supreme Court annulled the October 2024 polls. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) said voting materials would arrive promptly in all 319 wards, including riverine areas, and urged residents to participate peacefully. Movement will be restricted from midnight to 6 pm. Security agencies staged a show of force in Port Harcourt on Friday, with the police, army, navy, NSCDC, and FRSC assuring adequate protection. Police Commissioner Olugbenga Adepoju also pledged fair and credible elections. The outcome is expected to shape political dynamics ahead of the 2027 governorship race.