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.

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela and Russia Over Sanctions Violation
January 7, 2026 – International

The United States has confirmed the seizure of an oil tanker accused of violating U.S. sanctions, marking a major enforcement action against vessels attempting to bypass American restrictions. The tanker, originally identified as M/V Bella 1, had been renamed Marinera and was operating under a Russian flag while sailing in the North Atlantic. Reports indicate that the vessel previously flew a Guyana flag before its re-registration under Russia.

The U.S. European Command stated that the seizure was executed in coordination with multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Tracking operations were supported by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Munro. According to officials, the operation was carried out pursuant to a U.S. federal court warrant and reflects a “whole-of-government” approach to protecting U.S. interests and enforcing sanctions.

“The seizure supports the President’s proclamation targeting sanctioned vessels that threaten security and stability in the Western Hemisphere,” the U.S. European Command noted. Officials emphasized that the action was carefully planned to avoid environmental damage and focused on recovering the tanker rather than sinking it.

This operation follows recent diplomatic talks between U.S. and Venezuelan officials regarding potential exports of Venezuelan crude to American refineries along the Gulf Coast. U.S. refineries, which have historically processed Venezuela’s heavy crude, are reportedly capable of handling future imports once sanctions allow. Sources noted that the discussions come after years of restrictions that curtailed Venezuelan oil exports to the United States.

The seizure also comes in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela in early January 2026, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. justified the operation by citing federal indictments accusing Maduro’s government of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, alleging that the regime helped ship large quantities of cocaine into the United States. Following the operation, former President Donald Trump openly declared that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, which he claimed was built with American investment and seized by Maduro.

In his first public comments after being taken to the U.S., Maduro described himself as “kidnapped” and insisted on his innocence. The tanker seizure is seen as part of ongoing U.S. efforts to reassert influence over sanctioned energy exports and prevent regimes like Venezuela and Russia from profiting from illicit oil trade.

Experts note that the operation highlights the strategic importance of maritime enforcement in the global energy market and underscores the U.S.’s commitment to sanctions enforcement. The tanker, part of what officials have described as a “shadow fleet” circumventing international regulations, was carefully monitored for weeks before the operation, demonstrating the complexity of tracking and intercepting high-value maritime targets.

The U.S. emphasized that similar operations may continue against vessels suspected of violating sanctions, particularly those tied to sanctioned nations or illicit networks. The seizure reinforces the administration’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement and targeted enforcement to secure energy markets and uphold international sanctions.

Nigerian Troops Rescue Abducted Retired Colonel Ajanaku in Plateau State as Bandits Demand ₦200 Million Ransom

Nigerian Army troops have successfully rescued Colonel Ajanaku (rtd.), who was abducted by gunmen from his residence in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State in the early hours of January 5, 2026. The retired officer was reportedly kidnapped around 12:45 a.m. after armed men stormed his house opposite the Salvation Army Church along Rukuba Road.

Following the incident, soldiers from relevant military sectors were immediately mobilised and launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation, tracking the kidnappers through the Wildlife Park and combing nearby forests, caves, and rocky terrains believed to serve as criminal hideouts. Security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed that the abductors later contacted the victim’s wife, demanding a ₦200 million ransom and threatening to kill the officer if rescue efforts were not halted.

Despite the threats, security forces switched to covert operations, a strategy that proved effective. Colonel Ajanaku was rescued safely at about 5:30 p.m. the same day at the outskirts of the Rafiki axis in Bassa LGA. He is currently receiving medical attention at a military facility and is expected to be debriefed to provide intelligence that could aid follow-up operations.

Meanwhile, troops have continued combing surrounding forests and suspected hideouts in pursuit of the fleeing suspects, as security operations in the area remain ongoing. The successful rescue underscores the military’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and restoring security across Plateau State and beyond.

Abuja Health Centre in Kuje Left in Ruins for Years, Linked to Childbirth Deaths as Residents Urge FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to Intervene

Residents of Sabo community in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, have raised alarm over the prolonged neglect of their only primary healthcare facility, linking its dilapidated condition to preventable maternal deaths. The Sabo Primary Health Care Centre, which serves an estimated 7,200 people, has been largely non-functional for years, severely limiting access to basic and emergency medical services, particularly for pregnant women.

According to Tracka, BudgIT’s public expenditure tracking platform, the centre’s infrastructure has collapsed, with damaged roofs and ceilings, wards without beds, and a complete lack of drugs and essential medical equipment. The facility has reportedly remained abandoned and vandalised for nearly seven years, forcing residents to depend on local chemists and unqualified alternatives for treatment. Community members disclosed that several women have died during childbirth due to the absence of functional maternal healthcare services.

In response, Tracka and affected residents have appealed directly to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, alongside Senator Ireti Kingibe and Hon. Abdullahi Sabo, urging them to prioritise the reconstruction, equipping, and staffing of the centre. They stressed that restoring the facility is critical to safeguarding public health, reducing maternal mortality, and ensuring that vulnerable residents can access lifesaving medical care within their community.

TROOPS OF OPHK NEUTRALISE TERRORIST SUICIDE BOMBERS IN BORNO STATE

Troops of OPHK have successfully neutralised three terrorist suicide bombers following a deliberate, intelligence-driven operation conducted along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The operation, executed through covert intelligence efforts by troops in collaboration with local volunteer forces, led to the tracking and neutralisation of the suicide bombers before they could carry out planned attacks on innocent civilians. During the encounter, suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) materials in the possession of the terrorists were recovered and safely secured.

Troops also inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorist escorts accompanying the suicide bombers. The surviving elements fled into the Mandara Mountains under pressure from sustained troop action. In the course of exploitation, troops recovered four AK-47 rifles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, while two motorcycles used by the terrorists were destroyed.

Preliminary intelligence assessments indicate that the neutralised suicide bombers were dispatched from the Mandara Mountains by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram terrorists. Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified efforts to detect, track, and neutralise suicide bombers and other terrorist elements operating from this enclave, leveraging human intelligence, communication intercepts, and other intelligence-gathering capabilities.

The Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI, has continued to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies as well as community-based volunteer forces across Borno and Yobe States to forestall terrorist attacks on soft targets and protect innocent citizens. In addition, public enlightenment campaigns have been intensified to encourage vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious movements or persons within communities.

Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute and committed to sustaining offensive pressure on terrorist elements, degrading their operational capabilities, and ensuring the safety and security of the populace within the theatre of operations.

US Resumes Surveillance Flights Over North-East Nigeria After Sokoto Airstrikes

The United States has resumed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations over Nigeria’s north-east, focusing on militant activity in the Sambisa Forest, days after airstrikes on ISIS fighters in Sokoto State.

The development was disclosed on Saturday by Sahel-focused t+rrorism tracker Brant Philip, who shared flight-tracking data showing a US aircraft operating over Borno State. According to the data, the aircraft was a Gulfstream V — a long-range jet often modified for ISR missions.

“The United States resumed ISR operations today on ISWAP in the Sambisa forest, Borno State in northeast Nigeria, after a pause of one day following the strikes in Sokoto State,” Philip wrote on X. He explained that Saturday’s operation targeted the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the ISIS affiliate active mainly in Nigeria’s north-east and the Lake Chad basin.

Flight-tracking records reviewed by open-source analysts show that the US began its current ISR missions over Nigeria on November 24, with aircraft taking off from Ghana, a key logistics hub for the American military in West Africa.

The same aircraft, linked to Tenax Aerospace, a US special mission aircraft provider, has reportedly flown over Nigeria almost daily since then. Sources familiar with the operation said the flights are aimed at monitoring militant groups and tracking an American pilot k+dnapped in neighbouring Niger Republic.

The renewed US activity comes weeks after Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington amid tensions over President Donald Trump’s threats of military intervention.

Following the meeting, Hegseth said the US would work “aggressively” with Nigeria to end what he described as the “persecution of Christians by jihadist t+rrorists.”

Thursday night’s airstrikes in North-West Nigeria, reportedly targeting ISIS-linked militants, were described by Trump as the “first fulfillment” of that pledge. “More str+kes would follow,” the US President warned.

EXCLUSIVE: Tinubu-Linked Alpha-Beta Sets ₦2.83 Trillion Lagos Tax Target for 2026 Amid Economic Hardship

An internal planning document obtained by SaharaReporters reveals that Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP, a firm long linked to President Bola Tinubu, has set an ambitious ₦2.83 trillion tax revenue target for Lagos State in 2026—more than double the state’s previous collections. The projection comes amid rising inflation, business closures, job losses, and growing public distrust of government tax policies. While Lagos generated about ₦1.41 trillion in tax revenue as of October 2025, Alpha-Beta’s 2026 target signals a more aggressive revenue drive that could intensify enforcement and pressure on struggling businesses. The document also exposes operational challenges within the firm, including power outages, network failures, weak monitoring systems, and difficulties tracking distressed companies, raising questions about the feasibility and social impact of the ambitious tax target under current economic conditions.

House of Reps Urges Urgent Rescue of 28 Travellers, Including 25 Children, Abducted by Bandits in Plateau State; Ransom of N42 Million Demanded

The Nigerian House of Representatives has called on security agencies to urgently rescue 28 travellers, including 25 children, abducted by suspected bandits in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. The victims—children, a teacher, and a tricycle rider—were ambushed along the Zak–Sabon-Layin Gaji road while travelling to a Maulud celebration. The attackers abandoned the tricycle and the children’s footwear, highlighting the panic during the abduction. Bandits have demanded a ransom of N1.5 million per person, totaling N42 million. Lawmakers emphasized the challenges posed by dense forest terrain and urged security forces to deploy intelligence-driven operations. Plateau State authorities confirmed that soldiers and helicopters are actively tracking the kidnappers.

#PlateauState #Kidnapping #NigeriaSecurity

US Conducts Surveillance Flights Over Nigeria After Trump’s Military Threat, Targets Boko Haram, ISWAP Amid Rising Insecurity

The United States has reportedly been carrying out intelligence and surveillance flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November 2025, following former President Donald Trump’s threat of possible military intervention over escalating violence and alleged attacks on Christian communities. Flight tracking data shows that contractor-operated aircraft linked to Mississippi-based Tenax Aerospace have been flying almost daily from Ghana into Nigerian airspace to gather intelligence. U.S. officials say the missions are focused on tracking militant groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as monitoring a kidnapped American pilot. The operations signal renewed U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation amid worsening insecurity, although both governments have declined to publicly disclose details due to diplomatic sensitivities.

US Conducts Surveillance Flights Over Nigeria Amid Trump’s Invasion Threat, Report Reveals

The United States has reportedly carried out intelligence-gathering surveillance flights over parts of Nigeria since late November 2025, according to Reuters and flight tracking data. The operations, linked to U.S. contractor Tenax Aerospace, signal heightened security cooperation between Washington and Abuja amid concerns sparked by former President Donald Trump’s invasion rhetoric. The aircraft reportedly operated from Ghana, flying over Nigeria before returning to Accra, though the specific intelligence objectives remain unclear.

Mali : General Assimi GOITA moves to a higher speed in the fight against terrorism and creates his first ever Rapid Intervention Battalion, in the image of Captain Ibrahim TRAORÉ.

To intensify the tracking of terrorists, General Assimi Goïta has set up a first Rapid Response Battalion of the Forces Armées Maliennes equipped with motorcycles to ensure speed, mobility and efficiency. These units are capable of hitting the enemy with surgical precision, even in areas where pickups cannot intervene, in two strikes, three movements.
Long live the AES Armed Forces!
Thanks to General Assimi Goita.

This morning,
@TxDPS
Brush Team apprehended two illegal immigrants—one from Nepal and one from Mexico—in Roma, Starr County. Both were attempting to evade capture and were turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol.

DPS specialized brush teams play a critical role in public safety and border security by patrolling rugged terrain along the river, tracking illegal crossings, and assisting federal partners.

Operation Lone Star 2.0

#TexasDPS #OperationLoneStar #BorderSecurity #StarrCounty

Gunmen Kill Police Inspector, Two Civilians in Nasarawa Ambush, Steal Rifle

Gunmen ambushed a patrol team in Doma LGA, Nasarawa State, killing Inspector Jampi Mbursa and two civilians, Julius Igbogh and Raphaeal Julius. The attackers also stole the inspector’s AK-47 rifle before fleeing. Police are investigating the incident and tracking the assailants.

Peter Obi Calls for Independent Probe After Suspected Terrorists Allege Government Officials Supplied Arms, Logistics in Kwara State

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has demanded an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation following claims by suspected terrorists in Kwara State that they received ammunition and logistical support from government officials. Reacting to a viral video of arrested suspects making the allegations, Obi said the claims deepen Nigeria’s security crisis and raise serious questions about accountability. He cited past remarks by late General Sani Abacha and former President Olusegun Obasanjo to argue that modern surveillance and tracking tools should make terrorism easier to combat. Obi warned that persistent insecurity points to either complicity or leadership failure and urged Nigeria to prioritize competent, transparent leadership focused on protecting lives and property.

Peter Obi Calls for Probe as US Seizes Nigerian Supertanker Over Alleged Oil Theft

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged Nigerian authorities to launch a thorough investigation after United States officials seized a Nigerian-owned supertanker over alleged crude oil theft and illicit activities. Describing the incident as a wake-up call, Obi warned that large-scale oil theft could only be carried out by powerful networks, not ordinary citizens, and stressed the need for stronger institutions, accountability, maritime security reforms, and transparent tracking of Nigeria’s oil resources to restore the nation’s economy and global image.


#PeterObi

#OilTheft

Nigerian Government Admits Difficulty Tracking Kidnappers’ SIM Cards Despite NIN Policy

The Federal Government has admitted that security agencies face serious technical challenges in tracking SIM cards used by kidnappers, despite mandatory NIN–SIM registration. Communications Minister Bosun Tijani revealed that criminal gangs now exploit poor network coverage and advanced call-routing technologies, especially in remote areas. To counter this, the government plans to deploy 4,000 new telecom towers, expand fibre-optic networks, and upgrade Nigeria’s communication satellites to close connectivity gaps aiding criminal operations.

#Insecurity

#NINSIM

#Telecommunications

UK Rapidly Developing Plans To Prepare For W@r”— Armed Forces Minister, AI Carns says

The UK is fast-tracking nationwide plans to prepare for the possible outbreak of w@r, armed forces minister Al Carns has said. He warned that modern conflicts are not won by the military alone, but by societies, industries and economies working together.

Carns said the thr£at of w@rin Europe is growing, echoing NATO chief Mark Rutte’s warning that the continent must be ready for a large-scale confrontation with Russia similar to past world wars. Britain has also reported a more than 50% rise in hostile intelligence activity over the past year, including spying and cyber att@cks, with Russia, China, Iran and North Korea suspected.

In response, the government is launching a new defence counter-intelligence unit and merging military intelligence branches into a single body called the Military Intelligence Services. The minister said preparations now go beyond the armed forces, with government departments working on plans to define the role civilians and institutions would play in a national crisis, including protecting UK territory. He noted that the work is developing rapidly as the country seeks to strengthen readiness for modern conflict.

17 Killed as Militias Ambush Returning IDPs in Taraba’s Wukari Area

At least 17 people were killed and eight injured when armed militias ambushed returning IDPs in Tse Ajogo village, Wukari LGA of Taraba State. The attack, which occurred around 6 a.m. on December 10, saw gunmen storm the community in a coordinated operation, shooting residents and burning seven houses. Several villagers remain missing. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed it was the second attack on the resettling community within two months, warning that militias appear intent on disrupting return efforts. Authorities have begun tracking the attackers, urging increased patrols and vigilance among local communities, particularly Tiv settlements in the area.


#Taraba #Insecurity #IDPs

Stakeholders at an interactive forum to appraise impacts of Zonal Intervention/ Constituency Projects in communities at the instance of the Federal Ministry of Special Duties lnter - Governmental Affairs agreed that monitoring and evaluating projects the responsibility of every citizen.
They also noted paucity of funds, duplications of projects, abandonment and sharp practices in the sector as some of the reasons for some delays in completion of projects.
To ensure the Renewed Hope agenda on community development is realized, Stakeholders expressed the need for adequate collaboration of all stakeholders in tracking, monitoring and evaluation of these projects.

Nigeria is stepping into a new era and this time, it’s our entire revenue system getting a major upgrade.

In what is easily the biggest shake-up since the TSA era, the federal government has rolled out a unified digital platform that finally puts every revenue stream under one transparent umbrella. No more scattered systems, no more blind spots, everything now speaks to one powerful engine.

Backed by fresh directives from the Accountant General’s office, all federal payments will move fully electronic from January 1, 2026, and the Federal Treasury e-Receipt becomes the only official proof of payment. Physical cash receipts are out.

Those unapproved payment apps some agencies use? Gone. Every Naira collected must go straight into the TSA, clean, clear and accountable.

This is big good news for Nigeria.
For the first time, the government will have real-time visibility of what MDAs collect, remit and account for. Leakages that cost the nation billions every year now face their toughest fight yet.

With the new Revenue Optimisation Platform overseeing billing, reconciliation and performance tracking, corruption loopholes will shrink dramatically.

And for citizens and businesses, it gets even better: no more guesswork, no more shady receipts, no more paying into the wrong hands. Payments become straightforward, secure and easy to verify.

This reform isn’t just another policy, it’s a signal that Nigeria is serious about modernising public finance and tightening the system where it matters most.

A cleaner, smarter, more transparent revenue process is finally here and a big win for everyone.