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Over 100 Bandits Eliminated in Zamfara Following NAF Air and Ground Attack

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The Nigerian military killed more than 100 terrorists in a combined air and ground attack on Makakkari Forest in Bukuyum Local Government Area, Zamfara State, dealing a serious blow to armed bandits in the north.

Zagazola Makama, a security analyst, revealed the news in a post on his X account.
The article states that Nigerian Air Force jets launched the operation early on Sunday, hitting bandit sites located by reconnaissance drones. Ground forces moved forward at the same time, demolishing motorcycles and breaking up the robbers’ hideout.

Over 400 armed fighters, under the leadership of infamous kingpins, had assembled in Makakkari Forest, according to intelligence obtained by Operation FANSAN YANMA. Nasarawan Burkullu, an area farming settlement, was their target.

Read Also: Our Defection to PDP Confirmed by Mbah’s Performance, Says Obetta

According to reports, the bandits organized the raid in order to regroup and exact revenge following a recent security force failure. But they stumbled into a prearranged trap.

Many high-ranking bandit leaders were murdered before they could react, according to sources, and ground forces stopped others who attempted to escape.

Close coordination between the ground and air forces was credited with the operation’s success.

Bandit gangs and their support systems will continue to be under pressure from Operation FANSAN YANMA.

“Banditry feeds on impunity and dread. “One operation at a time, we are dismantling both,” the sources stated.

Our Defection to PDP Confirmed by Mbah’s Performance, Says Obetta

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Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta, who represents the Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South federal constituency in the 10th National Assembly, has stated that his and his colleagues’ defection to the state’s ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is justified by the Enugu state governor’s performance, which is not centered on Ning, and the wealth that flows into the Nsukka area during his administration.
The Hall of Fame, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) hosted an interface over the weekend between the state governor and political party leaders in the Enugu North Senatorial zone, also known as the Nsukka socio-cultural zone, during which Hon. Obetta spoke.
The appointment of a “indigenous Nsukka son as Vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, for the first time since the citadel of learning was founded in Nsukka soil 65 years ago, and named after our nation – Nigeria,” was one of the many items Obetta mentioned.

He claimed that the administration of Governor Mbah had broken a jynx for the residents of the Nsukka zone.
The 5,000-seat stores constructed at Nsukka International Market, which the governor recently completed kicking off its construction ceremony prior to attending the interaction session, Hon. Obetta added, are a glaring example of the governor’s sincere intentions and dedication to the development of the Nsukka zone.
During the leadership crisis in their previous political party, the Labour Party, Obetta recalled that he and his colleagues, including Hon. Dennis Agbo, the member representing the Udenu/Igbo-Eze North federal constituency, and their other supporters, made it clear that their decision to rejoin the PDP was motivated by their passion and dedication to furthering the development of their region.
However, you (Gov Mbah) did not force us to adopt your administration’s vision or return to the PDP, according to the record.
Instead, your government’s good deeds and your admirable vision persuaded us. When we made that choice, we were quite clear that it was based on a common vision of your administration’s strategy for changing our beloved state. We said, “When we are with you under a common political canopy, our zone stands to witness more impactful development activities so that at our various levels that synergize in fostering critical development in all areas,” Hon. Obetta continued.

Read Also: Why NYSC Withheld Certificate from Viral Corps Member Ushie Rita, Reveals Authority

The governor was reassured by Hon. Obetta that the people of Nsukka love him and will support his administration. He said that the participants in the interactive meeting are the true grassroots leaders from each of the six local governments that make up the zone: Nsukka, Igbo-Eze South, Igbo-Eze North, Igbo-Etiti, Udenu, and Uzo-Uwani.
He asked the governor to allow each local government representative to speak about the unique needs of their region, pointing out that in addition to having “finger tips full knowledge of the needs of their people, demography of their villages and communities,” those attending the meeting are “strong political foot-soldiers who are in control of the conscience of their people, and, as well, serve as effective feedback to the people on the government development activities and administration.”
In response to the numerous demands made by the speakers, which mostly focused on access to roads, water, and better welfare, Governor Mbah said that during the first two years of his administration, his administration gave priority to health and education. He added, however, that while road issues were not completely abandoned during that time—he mentioned a number of roads that had been awarded and were still being built—he assured them that their requests would receive more attention.
In particular, the governor allayed public concerns that his government harbors animosity toward Nsukka by pledging that his administration is dedicated to developing the area on an equal footing with other regions in the state.
Edem-Ani kingdom’s traditional ruler and the head of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers Igwe Samuel Asadu, His Royal Majesty, led the zone’s other traditional leaders to the interactive gathering.

Why NYSC Withheld Certificate from Viral Corps Member Ushie Rita, Reveals Authority

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The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied allegations that it withheld the Certificate of National Service (CNS) of corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye (state code LA/24B/8325) due to supposed negative remarks about the government.
In a statement posted on its official page, the NYSC denounced the charge as “entirely unfounded and false in its entirety,” claiming that the decision was made for genuine disciplinary reasons in accordance with its bye-laws.
According to the NYSC, Ms Ushie is one of 131 corps members whose certificates have been delayed due to various offenses. Her service year was extended by two months since she failed to attend the April 2025 biometric clearing exercise.

The statement states, “The NYSC Management desires to clarify misleading information circulating on social media on Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, State Code number LA/24B/8325. Contrary to misleading assertions that she was denied a Certificate of National Service (CNS) because she made critical remarks about the government, this claim is completely unsubstantiated and incorrect.

Read Also: Oyintiloye Predicts Political and Economic Stability for Nigeria Under Tinubu’s Second Term in 2027

“Rita is one of 131 Corps Members whose Certificates of National Service (CNS) were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons.” Rita’s service year has been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, which is consistent with the NYSC Bye-Laws.

“It is crucial to stress that this extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her situation, and the concept of equal treatment was only used in this instance.

“The NYSC Management thus encourages the public to handle this issue with understanding, since prolonging service for noncompliance is a traditional practice within the NYSC that should not be politicized.

“The NYSC Scheme remains committed to discharging its mandate, in line with the dictates of the constitution.”

Oyintiloye Predicts Political and Economic Stability for Nigeria Under Tinubu’s Second Term in 2027

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Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has urged traditional and political leaders in the nation to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition for a second term in office in order to maintain the political and economic stability of the country.

Oyintiloye, who made the plea on Sunday while addressing reporters in Osogbo, stated that the authorities should prioritize maintaining the country’s political and economic stability.

In his second term, the president will continue to guarantee equity in the federal government’s development initiative for all regions, he added, adding that Tinubu’s reelection would stabilize Nigeria.

He clarified that Northern elites who are determined to prevent President Bola Tinubu from being reelected in 2027 needed to be shielded from him by political and traditional leaders, particularly those in Southern Nigeria.

“Tinubu deserves to enjoy the support of the region for his second term bid because he has been a friend of the North and has always supported its political cause,” he said.

However, he voiced worry that anytime a Southerner governs, a Northern offshoot group frequently forms a clique and uses all available tools, including blackmail, to overthrow his administration.

The embarrassment that Southern presidents frequently endured at the hands of a small group of Northerners in their attempt to seize power will live on in the nation’s political history, according to Oyintiloye.

The nation’s political history will never forget the type of intimidation that Southern presidents frequently endured at the hands of a select few Northern individuals who consistently put up a fierce fight against their reelection bid.

In President Bola Tinubu’s instance, however, he has done enough to win over the main Northern power bloc.

“Therefore, the time has come for the area to further place the small number of those responsible for the president’s mischief where they truly belong.

Read Also: ‘Nigeria Will Rise Again, Just Not Under Tinubu,’ Says Giwa

Because these people are self-appointed leaders of the North, Oyintiloye stated, “the recognized political leaders and royal fathers of the region cannot continue to watch the trend and allow blackmail against Tinubu to gain traction.”

The former legislator also urged Southern Nigerian political leaders and traditional leaders to avoid playing a role in the plan against Tinubu by some Northern politicians who have been rejected.

“And this is the more reason the Southern leaders need to get up and support the President,” he continued.

“This support is required to stop the bad political trajectory that second-term bids frequently take when a Southerner is in the White House.

“The President should be protected from unjustified attacks by a small group of Northern politicians.”

In addition, he urged the Council of Southern Traditional Rulers’ Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, as well as the co-chairmen, Obi of Obinugwu, Cletus Illomuanya, and King Jaja of Opobo, Dandeson Jaja, along with the council’s secretary, Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi 1, Dein of Agbor, to work with their Northern counterparts to support Tinubu in 2027.

“I also want to counsel former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Professor Wole Soyinka, former Nigeria Senate President Ken Nnamani, and other Southern elders to step up and prevent a recurrence of bad history.”

He added, “They should protect Southern Nigeria from the few Northern power-hungry individuals.”

‘Nigeria Will Rise Again, Just Not Under Tinubu,’ Says Giwa

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Under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigerians have been accused of having hope that the country’s economy will improve.

This was stated by Adewale Giwa, senior pastor of the Second Coming of Christ’s Ministry, during a sermon on Sunday at his Akure church.

Accusing prophets of selling their supernatural gifts to unbelievers in exchange for cash, he accused them for contributing to the nation’s socioeconomic problems.

Giwa pointed out that due to what he called the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) dishonesty, voters erred in removing former President Goodluck Jonathan from power.

Since the APC took office, he claimed, the country’s economy has been in severe crisis.

“I woke up at precisely 1 p.m. this morning to pray for Nigeria,” Giwa stated. I asked God, “Do we still have prophets in Nigeria?” during one of my prayers.

I am a pastor, as you are aware, but I am not a prophet. Whereas a prophet is a seer who expresses God’s will, a pastor is a shepherd who leads and looks after a flock while concentrating on teaching. A prophet can also be thought of as God’s spokesperson.

The Lord’s Spirit informed me that the devil had placed a false Spirit in the mouths of several of our prophets. In other words, they have traded the gift of prophecy for cash from unbelievers, much like Esau traded his birthright for soup from his younger brother Jacob. Thus, according to the Lord, he had left them to mislead Nigeria.

There aren’t many politicians that genuinely care about the people; politics is deep. Dr., we made a mistake by voting out. I wish you luck, Jonathan, since the APC presented itself as an angel without realizing that they were going to bring poverty to Nigeria. Am I suggesting that Jonathan should return? No.

I firmly believe that Nigeria will rise once more in the meantime, but not under the current leadership. Things have gotten worse over time since the APC assumed power in 2015.

Nigerians were reassured by the pioneering cleric that someone would come from among the nation’s minority ethnic groups to save the country’s economy from dire straits.

He claimed the APC had sabotaged the opposition’s chances in the general elections of 2023 by using Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last general elections.

It remains to be seen if Obi would continue to play the same role in the 2027 presidential election, Giwa further warned Nigerians.

“A man named Peter Obi may be familiar to many of you,” he continued. It was in 2023 that I first called him a pretender. Even when a few fleshly-led men of God backed him, I stepped out from the crowd and trusted my gut.

To put it plainly, he is not a serious politician. Currently, the man is cashing out, just like he did during the 2023 presidential election. His supporters find it difficult to accept that God understands him better than he does. On the platter of gold, he wants to get things done.

In 2023, the ruling party divided some votes with him. We’ll have to wait and see whether they utilize him again. Having Tinubu in office for another four years is preferable to Peter Obi as Nigeria’s president. Obi’s administration would be characterized by selfishness, nepotism, and tribalism.

“This time, someone from the minority ethnic group that the Lord intends to use to restructure the nation is coming.”

Rights Advocate Patrick Agbese Hails Sowore’s Release, Demands Judicial Reforms

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Patrick Agbese, a UK-trained solicitor and passionate human rights defender, has warmly welcomed the release of activist Omoyele Sowore. At the same time, he stressed the urgent need for deep judicial reforms in Nigeria to guarantee fair trials for everyone.

Sowore was detained by the Nigeria Police Force after responding to an invitation from the Inspector-General of Police’s monitoring unit in Abuja. Thanks to strong public outcry and widespread condemnation, he was released just two days later.

Agbese sees Sowore’s release as a powerful example of what collective action can achieve but warns that the bigger fight for justice must continue.

“This victory shows that when Nigerians come together, our voices cannot be ignored,” Agbese said. “But it’s only the beginning. The way the police treated Sowore was an attempt to silence dissent, and we must make sure this never happens again.”

Sowore faced charges related to forgery and inciting unrest, linked to reports exposing corruption in the police force, including criticism of the current Inspector-General, Kayode Egbetokun.

There were troubling reports that Sowore was seriously injured during a forced transfer to a secret location, and that noxious gas was used in his detention. Agbese condemned these actions as cruel and reminiscent of Nigeria’s dark military past.

“This was not about enforcing the law,” he said. “It was a targeted attack meant to break a fearless voice for change. The police must be held accountable for this.”

Agbese also praised the massive public support—from protests to social media campaigns and pressure by groups like Amnesty International and the Nigeria Labour Congress—that helped secure Sowore’s freedom.

“The power of people standing together forced the police to back down,” he noted, echoing Sowore’s own words that his release was a victory for a revolutionary movement of supporters.

But Agbese made it clear the police owe Sowore an apology for violating his rights and called for those responsible to face justice.

“Any future harm to Sowore or other activists will not be tolerated,” he warned.

Looking beyond this case, Agbese emphasized the urgent need for judicial reforms to ensure fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s legal system.

“The police cannot be judge, jury, and jailer all at once,” he stressed, pointing out that Sowore’s case showed how this system fails the principles of justice.

He urged the government to respect the constitutional rule that detainees must be charged within 48 hours and to stop using politically motivated charges against critics.

“Every Nigerian deserves a justice system that protects their rights—not one that punishes those who speak out,” Agbese concluded.

APC Accuses El-Rufai of Hypocrisy: ‘One Finger Pointed, Four Point Back

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The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has attacked Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, saying he is living up to the future he previously foresaw for others.
The APC criticized the former governor’s behavior in a brief statement posted on its official 𝕏 Twitter on Friday, comparing him to someone who blames others while neglecting their own shortcomings.

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is currently living out a future that only he himself predicted. The APC implied hypocrisy in his conduct when it remarked, “El-Rufai, a stellar example of pointing one finger at others with four pointing back.”

The party also cautioned against paying much attention to people who talk loudly but don’t confront the hollowness that lies underlying their words.

The APC said, “Never take seriously people who speak with sound and fury that only cover the harrowing hollowness they carry within.”

El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, reportedly stunned many when he joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in March 2025.

Meanwhile, former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has described ex-President Goodluck Jonathan as the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) strongest option for the 2027 presidential election, calling on the party to make deliberate moves to bring him back.

Read Also: I’ve Never Felt Real Love Except from My Son – Tiwa Savage

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Lamido said Jonathan remains the most viable candidate the PDP can present, given his experience, leadership record, and collaborative style.

Lamido said, “I think for PDP now, they should try and woo him; he is their best bet. To me, he is their best bet. Anybody put forth by the PDP, Nigerians will support him.”

According to sources, Lamido said that Jonathan’s lineage cannot be matched by any contemporary Southern PDP member.

“The PDP will win the presidency if the South is chosen. He questioned, “Is there anyone in the PDP right now who can compete with Jonathan in terms of being in office, being clear-headed, being a key player who values collaboration, and being someone who is willing to listen?”

He pointed out that Jonathan had previously served as the nation’s leader, was aware of the difficulties involved in running a government, and had cordial working relationships with a wide range of political players.

The former governor’s remarks coincide with ongoing rumors that Jonathan would rejoin the PDP and run for president in 2027.

I’ve Never Felt Real Love Except from My Son – Tiwa Savage

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In a candid admission about her personal life, Nigerian musician Tiwa Savage says she has never really felt love in any of her romantic relationships.

In an interview with Zeze Millz on Friday, the award-winning singer stated that her relationship with her son, Jamil, is the only true love she has ever had.

She remarked, “I don’t think I’ve ever known true love outside of my son.”

“Looking back now, I realize even my marriage wasn’t love,” Tiwa continued. I was simply smitten. Though I don’t believe I ever experienced pure love, I believed I was in love at the time.

Read Also: Review of Customs Agents’ Licensing Fees Underway – Stakeholder Talks Begin

Despite making multiple efforts at love, the 45-year-old singer revealed that she has never experienced a soulmate.

“I’ve never experienced life with a soulmate. Perhaps I’m not cut out for love… in this lifetime,” she continued.

Tiwa, who has had a prosperous career for more than ten years, was married to Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun, a talent manager, from 2013 to 2018. The two of them had an only child together.

She previously came clean about having a long-term infatuation on Afrobeats artist Wizkid, but she pointed out that the “Ojuelegba” vocalist never felt the same way about her and instead viewed her more like an aunt.

Fans and social media users have since discussed her sincere revelation, with many applauding her candor and transparency regarding her personal experience.

Review of Customs Agents’ Licensing Fees Underway – Stakeholder Talks Begin

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In accordance with Sections 103 to 107 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and as part of continuous reforms to improve professionalism and regulatory efficiency in the freight forwarding industry, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that it has begun consulting with stakeholders regarding a planned review of licensing renewal fees for Licensed Customs Agents.

This information was revealed on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting with executives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), and the Customs Consultative Committee (CCC).

This meeting was the first of several consultation sessions with industry participants to be held prior to the scheduled implementation, according to a statement released by the Nigeria Customs Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, on Friday.

The licensing of customs agents is still essential to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s cargo clearing procedure, according to Maiwada, an assistant comptroller of customs.

The planned assessment, he continued, was meant to address operational demands, reflect current economic realities, such as the value of currency rates, and guarantee that only agents who satisfy the Service’s compliance, competence, and integrity requirements remain active in the system. Promoting accountability, optimizing procedures, and raising the standard of service delivery in the industry are the goals of this project.

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In order to reorient the NCS to meet the changing demands of border management and international trade, the Service emphasizes that the study is a component of larger modernization initiatives. It is anticipated to establish a more open, dependable, and effective licensing system that would eventually help respectable businesses and the general trading public. The National Image Maker of NCS stated that the new licensing structure will go into effect in January 2026 once stakeholder consultations are finished.

Additionally, according to Maiwada, Licensed Customs Agents who adhere to the new licensing framework will have access to premium facilitation measures, such as expedited processing times, better channels for communication with Customs officers, and improved integration with the Service’s updated digital platforms.

“This compliance-driven incentive is intended to discourage sharp practices and promote adherence to professional standards,” he said.

“The NCS assures stakeholders that it is committed to an inclusive process and that before the review is finalized and put into action, input from industry associations, individual operators, and pertinent government agencies will be carefully considered.” “The Service reaffirms its commitment to equity, openness, and the advancement of a safe, competitive, and effective trading environment in Nigeria,” the Customs image creator said.

Use Your Minds, Not Just Your Medals – Army Chief Urges Officers

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Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has urged strategic stakeholders and top military officers to turn strategy into tangible actions in order to address Nigeria’s problems.
At the Nigerian Army Resource Center’s (NARC) Strategic Management and Policy Study Course 7/2024 graduation, Oluyede reportedly gave the charge on Friday in Abuja.
Oluyede, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Center, encouraged the 25 graduating officers to use their education for the advancement of the country.

“This course focuses on using strategy, leadership, and innovation to make things happen in your organizations and for the country; it is not just about theory,” the COAS stated.

“You have to be a change agent. Your next task will be for Nigeria’s advancement outside of this classroom. Use everything you’ve learned here for your own development, the benefit of your organizations, and the advancement of our country and humanity.

He said the training educated officers to lead in a rapidly evolving security and governance environment by combining policy, entrepreneurship, psychology, and research.

The NARC’s Director-General, retired Maj.-Gen. Garba Wahab, characterized the initiative as a means of fostering mutual understanding, cooperation, and trust amongst security, defense, and civic agencies.

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He claimed that organizations including the NYSC, Defense Intelligence, and the Department of State Services had faith in the course, which has grown steadily and currently has one of the largest classes.

“Collaboration cannot work if we don’t know each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives. That’s what this course offers,” Wahab stated.

In order to overcome national obstacles, he encouraged participants to make use of their networks and abilities.

Nobody is an expert in everything. What you see as white, someone else may see as black, the point is to exchange ideas and learn from one another,” Wahab added.

Course President, Maj.-Gen. Sunday Igbinomwanhia, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army, NARC, and partner institutions for the opportunity to undergo the strategic training.

It was reported that the participants completed 11 months of intensive academic work, earning a master’s degree from the Nigerian Defence Academy and a Fellowship of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre.

They were inducted on Thursday ahead of the official graduation ceremony.