Arewa Take-It-Back Urges Respect for Nigeria’s Sovereignty Amid US Military Strikes Targeting Terrorists in Northwest Nigeria

The Arewa Take-It-Back (ATIB) Movement has called on the United States to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty while conducting counterterrorism operations in Northwest Nigeria. In a statement, ATIB acknowledged the reported US airstrikes announced by President Donald Trump on December 25, 2025, targeting ISIS-linked militants responsible for mass killings. The group emphasized that foreign military actions must coordinate with Nigerian authorities, minimize harm to civilians, and contribute to lasting stability. ATIB also stressed that military intervention alone is insufficient, urging the Nigerian government and regional stakeholders to strengthen security frameworks, intelligence, and socio-economic resilience.

Sovereignty Under Fire: Legal Implications of U.S. Airstrikes in Nigeria
Author: Evans Ufeli, Esq

The U.S. airstrikes in northwest Nigeria raise complex legal questions under international law. Key points include:

1. Use of Force and Consent:

The UN Charter prohibits the use of force against another state’s territory except in self-defense (Article 51) or with UN Security Council authorization.

Strikes with Nigeria’s genuine consent may be lawful; without consent, they risk being considered unlawful.

Claims of self-defense against non-state actors require necessity, immediacy, and proportionality.



2. International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law:

Parties must distinguish combatants from civilians, avoid indiscriminate attacks, and minimize civilian harm.

Human rights obligations, including extraterritorial application, require accountability for unlawful deaths.



3. State Responsibility and Legal Remedies:

If unlawful, Nigeria could pursue diplomatic channels, Security Council intervention, or ICJ action.

Legal remedies are complex and often constrained by political realities.



4. Domestic U.S. Implications:

The President’s authority is broad but limited; the War Powers Resolution and AUMF may apply depending on the operation.

Congressional oversight or litigation may arise if statutory authorization is absent.



5. Geopolitical and Strategic Considerations:

Strikes with consent can deepen cooperation, but civilian casualties or perceived sovereignty violations can strain relations.

Unilateral action risks diplomatic crises, anti-American sentiment, regional instability, and precedent-setting for cross-border operations.



6. Accountability and Legitimacy:

Transparency, credible casualty reporting, and independent investigations are crucial to maintain legal and political legitimacy.




Conclusion:
The lawfulness of U.S. strikes depends on Nigerian consent, adherence to self-defense criteria, and compliance with international humanitarian and human-rights law. Even lawful operations require careful management to avoid undermining sovereignty, inflaming regional tensions, or provoking legal and political challenges.

Sowore Accuses Tinubu Administration of Failing to Protect Nigeria’s Sovereignty Amid U.S. Strikes

Former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government for failing to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty following U.S. airstrikes targeting terrorist groups in northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day. Sowore argued that the strikes, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, were carried out without genuine authority or informed consent from Nigeria’s leadership, describing the government as weak and incapable of protecting the nation.

He stated that the operation in Sokoto State highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability and loss of control over its own territory, emphasizing that only capable, tested leadership could ensure the protection of Nigerians.

The article also referenced the Federal Government’s position, which confirmed that the airstrikes were conducted through intelligence collaboration and security cooperation with the U.S. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the operations as “precision hits” on terrorist targets, stressing that cooperation aligns with international law, respects Nigeria’s sovereignty, and is part of broader efforts to address terrorism while protecting civilians and national unity.

Nigerian Government Confirms U.S.–Nigeria Airstrikes on Terrorist Camps in North-West

The Nigerian government has officially acknowledged that recent airstrikes on terrorist camps in the North-West were carried out through intelligence collaboration and security cooperation with the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, stated that these operations resulted in “precision hits” on terrorist targets.

The partnership involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other support measures conducted in line with international law and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The government emphasized that counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the protection of civilian lives, national unity, and the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

The statement also highlighted ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent cross-border threats, and strengthen Nigeria’s security and intelligence institutions, while keeping the public informed through official channels.

U.S. Coordinated With Nigeria’s NSA, AFRICOM To Strike ISIS-Linked Terrorist Targets In Sokoto

Fresh details have emerged on the United States airstrikes carried out against ISIS-linked terrorist elements in northwest Nigeria, revealing that the operation was closely coordinated with Nigeria’s national security architecture. A senior Nigerian government source disclosed that the strikes authorised by U.S. President Donald Trump were largely planned and executed through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), headed by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the source, intelligence units within the NSA’s office worked in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) to identify, locate, and target terrorist enclaves operating in parts of northern Nigeria. The objective of the operation, the source said, was the “elimination” of ISIS-affiliated fighters accused of fueling deadly attacks and insecurity across the region. However, the exact number of targets hit and the scale of damage inflicted remain unclear.

Reports confirmed that at least one explosion occurred on the outskirts of Jibo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, suggesting that the area was among those struck during the operation. As of the time of reporting, there was no independent confirmation of casualties, and Nigerian authorities have not released details regarding possible civilian impact.

The U.S. Africa Command later confirmed via social media that it carried out attacks on terrorist camps in northwest Nigeria, although its initial statement misspelled Sokoto State as “Soboto,” an error that was subsequently corrected. Despite the confirmation, both Nigerian and U.S. officials have remained tight-lipped about the full scope of coordination, Nigeria’s operational role, and safeguards taken to prevent civilian harm.

The revelation of U.S.–Nigeria intelligence-backed military action has intensified public debate over foreign involvement in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, national sovereignty, and transparency in security operations. It also underscores the growing security cooperation between Abuja and Washington amid escalating terrorist violence in Nigeria’s northwest.

BREAKING: Trump Claims U.S. Launched Precision Airstrikes On ISIS-Linked Terrorists In Nigeria

Former United States President Donald Trump has announced that the U.S. military carried out what he described as “numerous precise and deadly strikes” against terrorist groups operating in northwest Nigeria. According to Trump, the operation targeted ISIS-linked militants whom he accused of carrying out mass killings, particularly of Christians, in parts of the country plagued by prolonged insecurity and violence.

In a statement released on December 25, 2025, Trump said the strikes were authorised by him in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief and executed by the U.S. military. He alleged that the targeted militants had been “viciously killing, primarily innocent Christians” and claimed the scale of the violence had reached levels “not seen for many years, and even centuries.” Trump added that he had previously issued warnings to the groups to halt the killings or face severe consequences.

Declaring that the warning had now been enforced, Trump stated that the United States would not tolerate the spread of what he called “radical Islamic terrorism.” He described the military action as “numerous perfect strikes” and praised the U.S. armed forces, adding a Christmas message that included a controversial remark about the terrorists killed in the operation.

Following the announcement, the Nigerian government, through the Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that airstrikes had indeed taken place in parts of northern Nigeria. However, officials did not disclose further details about the scope of the strikes, the number of casualties, or the extent of Nigeria’s involvement or coordination in the operation.

The development has sparked renewed attention on Nigeria’s security crisis, particularly in the northwest and north-central regions, where various armed groups, including bandits and extremist factions, have carried out attacks on civilians, religious communities, and security forces over several years. The confirmation of foreign military action on Nigerian soil is likely to raise diplomatic, security, and sovereignty questions in the coming days.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Declares Annual Thanksgiving Day To Commemorate Igbo Survival Of Nigeria-Biafra Civil War

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has officially designated the last Sunday of every January as an annual thanksgiving day to commemorate the survival of the Igbo people during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War of 1967–1970. The resolution was unanimously adopted during the group’s Imeobi meeting held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu.

Announcing the decision, Ohanaeze’s Deputy President General, Prince Okechukwu Nwadinobi, explained that the thanksgiving day is meant to acknowledge what the organisation describes as divine intervention that spared the Igbo from total annihilation during the war. He stated that all Igbo people are encouraged to attend church services on the chosen day to express gratitude to God for preservation and survival amid the horrors of the conflict.

Nwadinobi noted that the leadership of Ohanaeze, under Senator Azuta Mbata, considered it necessary to institutionalise the annual thanksgiving, stressing that without God, the support of a few Nigerians, and intervention from the international community, the Biafran cause and the Igbo people might not have survived. He recalled that the war was marked by deliberate attempts to wipe out Biafra, making survival itself a profound historical milestone worthy of remembrance.

Beyond the thanksgiving initiative, Nwadinobi outlined several interventions undertaken by the current Ohanaeze leadership to safeguard Igbo interests nationwide. These include a high-level delegation to Lagos over the demolition of Igbo-owned businesses in Festac Town and the Trade Fair Complex, engagement with affected traders after the Mandilas Plaza fire incident, and the formation of professional teams to guide Igbo entrepreneurs on best business practices.

He also disclosed a new partnership between Ohanaeze and Otu Oka Iwu, a body of legal experts, aimed at providing free legal services to Ndigbo on issues affecting their welfare and rights.

In a goodwill message, former Archbishop of the Enugu Anglican Communion, Dr. Emmanuel Olisa Chukwu, welcomed the resolution, describing it as spiritually significant. Recounting his near-death experience during the war, including the Asaba genocide, the cleric said the decision resonated deeply with the Igbo people, whom he described as deeply religious and sustained by faith through decades of hardship.

Boko Haram Responsible For Maiduguri Mosque Bomb Blast, Nigerian Army Confirms

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that Boko Haram insurgents were responsible for the deadly bomb explosion at the Gamboru Juma’at Mosque in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. The attack occurred on Wednesday during Maghrib prayers when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device inside the mosque, causing widespread casualties and panic among worshippers.

According to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, investigations revealed that the assault was carried out by Boko Haram elements targeting civilians during a religious gathering. Five worshippers were confirmed dead, while at least 35 others sustained injuries of varying degrees. The Theatre Command spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that 32 civilians were injured in the blast, with two later dying at the hospital and two others remaining in critical condition.

Following the explosion, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency, swiftly cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm. Victims were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for urgent medical treatment.

The Nigerian Army reassured residents of Maiduguri and its environs of their safety, especially during the festive season, noting that security surveillance and operations have been intensified across the city and surrounding areas. The military reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and preventing further attacks in the North-East, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies as counterterrorism efforts continue.

Nigerian Army Confirms Mosque Suicide Bombing in Maiduguri: 32 Injured, 2 Dead

The Nigerian Army has issued an official statement following a suicide bomber attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 24, 2025. The explosion occurred around 6:00 p.m. during evening prayers, leaving two civilians dead and 32 others injured. The bomber reportedly died at the scene, with two of the injured later succumbing to their wounds in hospital, while two remain in critical condition.

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) stated that troops, alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency, promptly secured the area and evacuated victims to General Hospital and Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri. The Army emphasized that heightened security measures have been implemented across Maiduguri and surrounding areas, especially during the festive season, to prevent further attacks.

The Army called on residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and exercise extra caution in crowded places and places of worship. Operation HADIN KAI expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security in the North East.

The statement was signed by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on December 25, 2025.

Nicki Minaj Faces Backlash, Loses Followers After Speaking On Christian Persecution In Nigeria At Turning Point USA Event

American rap superstar Nicki Minaj has sparked widespread controversy and social media backlash following her surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, where she spoke on faith, politics, and global issues, including the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Minaj appeared alongside conservative activist Erika Kirk and used the platform to praise former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance for what she described as their efforts in raising global awareness about violence against Christians, particularly in Nigeria.

Her remarks immediately triggered mixed reactions online. While some supporters commended her for drawing attention to religious persecution and amplifying the plight of Nigerian Christians—an issue she has previously addressed at international forums—others expressed strong opposition. Critics, especially from her progressive and LGBTQ+ fanbase, accused Minaj of aligning with conservative politics and abandoning communities that have long supported her career. Viral clips and posts alleging that she had “gone MAGA” intensified the backlash across multiple platforms.

The controversy quickly spilled into Minaj’s social media presence, with reports indicating that her Instagram account was deactivated shortly after the event. Viral claims suggested she lost up to 10 million followers, although independent checks indicate that the figure may be exaggerated, with some reports pointing to a smaller decline or noting that the account may have been inactive prior to the event.

The debate has drawn reactions from fellow artists, public figures, and commentators, with opinions sharply divided between those defending her right to speak on matters of faith and global violence, and those criticising what they see as a political and ideological shift. The Turning Point USA event itself has also attracted scrutiny, reflecting broader debates about celebrity involvement in politically charged causes.

Earlier in November, Minaj had spoken at a United Nations event hosted by the U.S. Mission, where she also highlighted alleged violence against Christians in Nigeria. That appearance marked the beginning of heightened public attention on her growing advocacy for religious freedom, a stance that continues to provoke both support and criticism worldwide.

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#NickiMinaj, #ChristianPersecution, #Nigeria

No Retreat, No Surrender Until Normalcy Returns to North-East — Chief of Air Staff

Nigeria's chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke says the Airforce will not retreat nor surrender until complete normalcy is restored to the north east and other troubled affected communities across the country.

The Chief of Air Staff represented by Chief of Air Intelligence Headquarters, Nigerian Airforce, Air Vice Marshal N.N Ananaba
stated this during a christmas luncheon with troops on the frontline held at the Headquarters, Air Component Operation Hadin Kai NAF base in Maiduguri.

The Nigerian Airforce had over the years been organizing such luncheon for troops on the frontline during religious festivals like christmas towards boosting their morale to perform optimally within the theatre.

This year is not different as the soldiers converged to be part of the historic event, listening attentively to the chief of air staff christmas message especially the need to utilize every opportunity provided by the airforce to deal with enemies of peace.

CHIEF OF STAFF GBAJABIAMILA NOT REPLACED BY MURI-OKUNOLA

The Presidency has dismissed reports that the Chief of Staff to the President has been replaced.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency described as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.

There is absolutely no truth to this story. We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely.

The Chief of Staff remains in his position. The Principal Private Secretary likewise remains in his role. Hakeem Muri-Okunola has not replaced Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff.

The viral claim is a fabrication by mischievous purveyors of fake news whose sole aim is to create disharmony within the government.

We reiterate that news media should always verify their information before publishing or sharing on social media.

Ex-AGF Malami Accuses EFCC of Blocking Court Order Service, Insists Bail Order Was Properly Served

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of deliberately evading compliance with a valid court order granting him bail. Malami’s camp insists that contrary to the EFCC’s claims, the anti-graft agency was properly served with the order but allegedly refused to acknowledge or accept it.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami said a court bailiff visited the EFCC offices a day after the order was issued, but officials of the commission declined to receive the documents. According to Malami, such refusal does not invalidate service under Nigerian law, as attempted service and subsequent delivery to legal representatives are sufficient to establish notice of a court order.

Malami further disclosed that the same bail order was later received by the chambers of Chief J.S. Okutepa (SAN), a senior advocate linked to the EFCC, arguing that this conclusively established the commission’s awareness of the court directive. The former AGF maintained that the EFCC’s continued detention of him therefore amounts to an attempt to sidestep judicial authority.

The EFCC, however, has firmly rejected these claims. In an earlier statement, its lead counsel, Okutepa, described reports of an ex-parte bail order as misleading, bizarre, and professionally irresponsible. He insisted that neither the EFCC nor his law firm was served with any court order directing Malami’s release and said he only learned of the alleged order through social media reports.

Okutepa also recalled that on December 10, 2025, Justice S.C. Oriji of the FCT High Court ordered Malami’s remand in EFCC custody for 14 days pending investigations, an order he said remains valid and subsisting. He added that a subsequent bail application filed by Malami’s legal team before another FCT High Court was dismissed on December 18, 2025, with the court affirming that Malami was not being unlawfully detained.

The legal dispute has now escalated into a public standoff, with Malami accusing the EFCC of contempt and the commission warning against what it described as abuse of judicial process and attempts to mislead the public. The controversy has further intensified scrutiny of the EFCC’s handling of high-profile corruption cases and the enforcement of court orders in Nigeria.

Ghanaian Authorities Arrest 48 Nigerians in Accra for Online Fraud and Romance Scams

Ghanaian authorities have arrested 48 Nigerians in a coordinated operation near Accra for involvement in various cybercrime activities, including romance scams, online investment fraud, impersonation schemes, and illicit online gold trading. The arrests were part of a broader effort to protect Ghana’s digital and financial environment from organized cybercrime.

The raid, conducted at night by the Cybercrime and Security Agency (CSA) in collaboration with the National Security and Ghana Police Service, took place in the Dawhenya area of the Ningo-Prampram Constituency. Among the suspects, 46 were men and two were women, all believed to be Nigerian nationals.

Seized items included 54 laptops, 39 mobile phones, a Starlink internet device, and eight MTN TurboNet routers. The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology & Innovations, Sam George, emphasized that Ghana welcomes legitimate business but remains vigilant against cybercriminals.

This crackdown follows similar actions earlier in the year, including the arrest of nearly 800 people in Lagos for online fraud, highlighting regional and international collaboration against cybercrime networks. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intelligence-led operations to ensure a safer cyber ecosystem in Ghana.

Islamic Cleric Says Muslims Can Eat Christmas Food Given by Christians, Debunks Myths

An Islamic cleric has addressed the ongoing debate on whether Muslims can consume food prepared for Christmas by Christians. Speaking in a trending video shared on social media, the cleric clarified that there is nothing wrong with Muslims eating Christmas food, dismissing claims that such food constitutes a sacrifice for idolatrous worship. He also emphasized that the use of the Gregorian calendar to fix Christmas celebrations does not amount to idolatry.
The cleric highlighted that those opposed to Muslims eating Christmas food due to the calendar should reconsider their use of other devices and systems tied to the Gregorian calendar, including international passports and mobile phones. His statements, shared by social media user @SameAsake on X, have sparked widespread discussion, with many Nigerians supporting the cleric’s reasoning and advocating religious tolerance and harmony.
The debate comes amid other Christmas activities in Nigeria, including Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State distributing food items to over 6,000 Christian widows and vulnerable persons, including internally displaced persons, to promote peace and inclusivity. However, incidents of crime, such as armed bandits seizing Christmas food in Kaduna State, highlight ongoing security challenges.
The cleric’s message reinforces unity and coexistence, encouraging Nigerians to view each other as brothers and sisters regardless of religion, and to celebrate shared values of generosity and goodwill during festive seasons.

ADC Calls for Prayers at Christmas, Warns Borno Mosque Bombing Threatens All Nigerians Regardless of Faith


The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a period of reflection, prayer and solidarity amid the country’s worsening security challenges. In its Christmas message released on December 25, 2025, the party expressed deep concern over persistent violence across the nation, with particular emphasis on the North-East.

The ADC specifically referenced the Christmas Eve bombing at a mosque in Borno State, describing the incident as a painful reminder that insecurity in Nigeria poses a threat to all citizens, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or region. The party urged Nigerians to pray for the victims of the attack, their families and the affected communities, stressing that violence anywhere in the country endangers everyone.

Beyond the bombing, the party highlighted the sacrifices of Nigerians who remain on duty during the festive season, including security personnel, health workers and other essential service providers. It noted that while many citizens celebrate with their families, these workers continue to safeguard lives and maintain public welfare, often at great personal cost.

Addressing broader national concerns, the ADC called for prayers for Nigeria’s recovery, urging divine intervention to end widespread suffering and insecurity. The party also appealed for leadership rooted in conscience, empathy and genuine love for the people, which it described as essential for national healing and unity.

The message concluded with goodwill wishes to Nigerians across the country, as the ADC extended its hope for a peaceful Christmas celebration and a better, more secure New Year for all citizens.

VP Shettima: Borno Attack Will Not Break Nigeria’s Resolve

Vice President Kashim Shettima has condemned in strong terms the bomb explosion that claimed about five lives and left several others injured at a Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

A statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, Office of The Vice President indicates that the Vice President said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State following the incident.

In a statement on Thursday, the Vice President condemned the attack, assuring that the Federal Government is deploying additional tactical teams to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible for the terror attack.

"The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately," he said.

Senator Shettima expressed confidence that the security architecture currently in place would not only apprehend the perpetrators but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"We sympathize with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law," VP Shettima said.

He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration's commitment to national security, anchored in constitutional duty, remains unwavering.

"Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.

"This commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will continue to provide our security agencies with all necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms," he affirmed.

The Vice President added that the Federal Government is working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to ensure protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

Borno Mosque Bombing: Tinubu Orders Heightened Security as Shettima Says Terror Attack Will Not Break Nigeria’s Resolve

Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the deadly bomb explosion at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which killed five worshippers and left at least 35 others injured. Describing the incident as a despicable and cowardly act of terrorism, Shettima said the attack was a direct assault on innocent citizens and Nigeria’s peace and security.

Following the incident, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the immediate intensification of security operations across Borno State. According to a statement issued on Christmas Day by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, additional tactical security teams have been deployed to hunt down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

Shettima assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would not be deterred by acts of terror, stressing that security agencies are working round the clock to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that ongoing operations would not only lead to arrests but also uncover the full circumstances surrounding the bombing.

The Vice President extended condolences to the Borno State Government, affected residents, and families of the victims, reiterating that those behind the attack would face the full weight of the law. He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing national security as a core constitutional responsibility.

Shettima further disclosed that the Federal Government is working closely with the Borno State Government, local authorities, and security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other parts of the country, vowing that terrorism will be decisively defeated in all its forms.

Remi Tinubu Disburses N50 Million to 1,000 Women Entrepreneurs in Ogun State

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi “Remi” Tinubu, distributed N50 million in grants to 1,000 women entrepreneurs in Ogun State under the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each recipient received N50,000 to support their existing small businesses.


Objective: The programme aims to strengthen women’s economic participation, empower small business owners, and improve financial inclusion.

Support and Partnership: The initiative is backed by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which contributed N1 billion nationwide to support approximately 18,500 women across Nigeria.

Event Details: The grant presentation took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, and Mrs. Tinubu was represented by Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State Governor.

Grant Nature: Beneficiaries were informed that the funds are grants, not loans, and are not required to be repaid.

Governor’s Role: Governor Dapo Abiodun increased Ogun State’s allocation to 1,000 beneficiaries, demonstrating commitment to women’s empowerment.

Call to Beneficiaries: Mrs. Tinubu urged recipients to use the grants responsibly to grow their businesses, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national development.

Broader Context: Access to finance remains a significant challenge for Nigerian women, making initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative crucial for economic inclusion.


The programme is part of ongoing efforts by the First Lady and the Tony Elumelu Foundation to foster entrepreneurship, reduce financial barriers, and promote sustainable development among women across Nigeria.

A civil society organisation, the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP), has formally urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reject the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria as a surety in the ongoing corruption case involving former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN).

In a petition dated December 24, 2025, and addressed to the EFCC Chairman in Abuja, ALDRAP based its request on Section 167(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, which clearly outlines who qualifies to stand as a surety in criminal proceedings. The group argued that the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council does not meet the statutory and ethical requirements required under the law.

The petition, signed by ALDRAP’s Secretary, Dr. Tonye Clinton Jaja, cited the 2024 Anti-Corruption Index published by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC). According to the group, the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria was among federal government agencies that recorded a zero percent (0%) score in the ICPC’s ethics and integrity assessment for the year.

ALDRAP stressed that this poor rating raises serious concerns about the integrity, credibility, and suitability of the Legal Aid Council’s leadership to act as a surety for a defendant facing serious corruption allegations. The group argued that allowing a public official whose institution failed to meet basic anti-corruption benchmarks to guarantee the bail of a former justice minister accused of massive financial crimes would undermine public confidence in the justice system.

“The implication is that a person heading an institution that scored zero percent in the ICPC anti-corruption index cannot be considered fit and proper to stand as surety for Malami, who is himself undergoing investigation and prosecution for corruption-related offences,” the petition stated.

ALDRAP further reminded the EFCC of its mandate as a watchdog against corruption and urged the commission to ensure that all bail conditions strictly comply with the law and ethical standards. The group noted that it was incorporated in 2017 under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and is committed to promoting adherence to the 1999 Constitution and other relevant laws governing public accountability.

Meanwhile, the petition comes against the backdrop of serious criminal charges filed against Malami by the Federal Government. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Malami is facing 16 counts bordering on money laundering, conspiracy, and unlawful acquisition of assets, alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and an associate, Hajia Bashir Asabe.

According to court documents, prosecutors allege that Malami and his co-defendants used corporate fronts and proxies, including Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited, Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, and Meethaq Hotels Limited, to conceal and launder illicit funds while Malami served as Nigeria’s chief law officer. The alleged offences span nearly a decade, from 2015 to 2025, covering both his time in office and the period after.

The charges detail multiple financial transactions involving billions of naira, including over ₦1 billion allegedly concealed through Sterling Bank accounts, large cash collaterals used to secure bank loans, and payments for luxury properties in Abuja, Kano, Birnin Kebbi, and other locations. Prosecutors claim that no fewer than 30 high-value properties worth about ₦212.8 billion were acquired using proceeds of unlawful activities.

The government further alleges that Malami and his associates violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended) and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, through systematic concealment, conversion, and retention of illicit funds.

Against this backdrop, ALDRAP has expressed confidence that the EFCC will give its petition urgent and favourable consideration, insisting that the integrity of the bail process must not be compromised in a case of such national significance. The group warned that allowing questionable sureties could weaken anti-corruption efforts and send the wrong message to Nigerians about accountability at the highest levels of government.