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Nigeria Graduates 197 Peacekeepers for ECOWAS Deployment to The Gambia

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In a significant boost to regional stability, the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in Jaji has commissioned 197 Nigerian soldiers for an upcoming ECOWAS peacekeeping mission in The Gambia. Over the past five weeks, these troops completed intensive pre‑deployment training designed to prepare them for the complex security challenges they will face.

During Friday’s graduation ceremony, Major General Ishaya Maina—speaking on behalf of the Army Chief of Operations, Major General Uwem Bassey—congratulated the newly trained contingent, designated “Nigerian Contingent 10.” He reminded them that they carry Nigeria’s reputation across the continent and must uphold the highest standards of professionalism and discipline. Major General Maina issued a firm warning that any form of misconduct, especially sexual exploitation or abuse, would not be tolerated.

Commandant of MLAILPKC, Major General Ademola Adedoja, outlined the training curriculum, which adhered to the United Nations’ Core Pre‑deployment Training Manuals but was specially adapted for the Gambian theatre. Beginning on May 17, the programme covered critical skills including:

  • Counter‑improvised explosive device tactics

  • Unmanned aerial vehicle operations

  • Base‑camp establishment and security

  • Convoy drills and route planning

  • VIP protection protocols

  • GPS navigation

  • Medical evacuation procedures

Major General Adedoja noted that each soldier underwent a full medical assessment before and during training to ensure peak readiness. He expressed confidence that Nigerian Contingent 10 will excel in their duties and continue the proud legacy of their predecessors.

The graduation drew senior representatives from Defence and Army Headquarters, various military academies, and security agencies across Kaduna State. In his remarks, Adedoja extended gratitude to Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, for providing the resources that made the rigorous training possible.

As they prepare to deploy, the 197 peacekeepers will join fellow ECOWAS forces in The Gambia, tasked with supporting the country’s efforts to maintain political stability and protect civilians. Their departure underscores Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to peace and security in the West African region.

Benue Massacre: Adebayo Criticizes Tinubu’s Response

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President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State in the wake of the Fulani militant massacre has come under fire from Prince Adewole Adebayo, Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its 2023 presidential candidate. Adebayo accused the administration of trivializing the tragedy and politicizing the relief efforts.

“Our entire governmental doctrine and leadership mentality in Nigeria needs a thorough revamp, and our people desperately need mental liberation. How could the emphasis be on the 2027 election and little on the sadistic massacre?” Adebayo wrote on his official X handle.

He described the town hall meeting convened by President Tinubu during the visit as “sickening,” arguing that the bulk of the speech focused on the President’s “sacrifice” to respond promptly rather than investigating the leadership failures and constitutional duty to protect citizens:

“No observer would believe that the people of this great state have just suffered a dastardly and gruesome massacre merely a few days ago.”

Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese Mourns the Passing of Hon. Prince Sunday Ikpa

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Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, Member of the House of Representatives for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Hon. Prince Sunday Ikpa, describing him as a dedicated community leader and advocate for progress.

In an official condolence message, Dr. Agbese extended his deepest sympathies to the Ikpa family, praising the late Prince Sunday Ikpa for his unwavering integrity, compassion, and selfless service. “Hon. Prince Sunday Ikpa was a man of vision and empathy whose legacy will continue to inspire us all. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time,” Dr. Agbese said.

Dr. Agbese urged the community to honour Prince Ikpa’s memory by upholding the values he championed—leadership, unity, and commitment to public welfare. He encouraged constituents to draw strength from Prince Ikpa’s life of service and to carry forward his work in promoting social development.

The late Hon. Prince Sunday Ikpa will be remembered for his tireless efforts in improving education, healthcare, and youth empowerment within Benue State. His passing marks a significant loss to both his immediate community and the wider region.

NAHCON Airlifts Over 14,000 Nigerian Pilgrims from Saudi Arabia in 2025 Hajj Return Operations

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The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully airlifted more than 14,000 Nigerian pilgrims from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as part of the ongoing 2025 Hajj return operations. This was disclosed by the NAHCON Command and Control Centre in Makkah in an official update.

According to the report, Flynas flight XY9082 departed Jeddah for Sokoto at 07:51 hrs (local time), transporting 422 Sokoto pilgrims and 4 officials. Shortly after, Flynas flight XY9022 left Jeddah for Abuja at 10:33 hrs, carrying 425 FCT pilgrims and 4 officials. These flights increased the total number of pilgrims airlifted so far to 14,014 across 33 flights.

NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a smooth and timely Hajj experience. “Our commitment to a smooth Hajj airlift remains unwavering. We are steadily progressing in conveying all Nigerian pilgrims to the Holy Land for their spiritual journey,” the Commission stated on its official X platform.

The Commission continues to coordinate operations from its Makkah control centre, working with airlines and authorities to ensure safe, timely, and efficient airlift for all Nigerian pilgrims.

Nigeria Customs Service Warns Against Online Recruitment and Auction Scams

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a strong warning to the public about the rise of online scams falsely linked to the agency. The NCS highlighted the surge in fraudulent recruitment and auction offers circulating on social media platforms, stressing that the service does not conduct recruitment or auctions online.

Speaking in Abuja, the National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed concern over fake social media accounts impersonating senior customs officials, including the Comptroller-General of Customs, to deceive unsuspecting Nigerians. He described these scams as criminal schemes designed to defraud citizens and damage the reputation of the NCS.

Maiwada announced the arrest of Mr. Okoli Okana Boniface, who allegedly manipulated the recruitment process while falsely claiming to be an aide to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The arrest, handled by the Customs Police Unit, demonstrated the NCS’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its operations. Further investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute other fraudsters involved in similar scams.

The NCS urged Nigerians to verify all recruitment and auction information via official channels and to avoid dealing with unverified social media accounts. Maiwada reaffirmed the service’s zero-tolerance policy on fraud, encouraging the public to report suspicious activities.

“The NCS remains dedicated to exposing and prosecuting those who attempt to compromise our operations through fraudulent means,” Maiwada said.

FCT Commissioner of Police Warns Against Bribes, Orders Release of Illegal Detainees

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, has issued a strong warning to residents and officers in Abuja regarding bribery and unlawful detentions. The CP emphasized that offering or accepting bribes is a criminal offence under Section 118 of the Penal Code Act. He called on citizens to resist the temptation of bribing police officers and urged officers to maintain professionalism and integrity.

CP Adewale’s directive follows multiple complaints from residents about illegal detentions over bailable offences, extortion, and police interference in civil disputes, particularly those involving land matters. He ordered the immediate release of all suspects detained for minor, bailable offences, provided proper documentation and surety verification are completed.

In a statement released by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the CP reiterated that bail is free and warned that any officer caught demanding money for bail or documentation would face disciplinary measures. He also cautioned officers against involvement in civil disputes, stressing that such matters fall outside the jurisdiction of the police.

Furthermore, CP Adewale condemned the practice of demanding payment before initiating investigations, describing it as extortion and an abuse of office. He urged residents not to misuse police services for debt recovery or personal disputes and encouraged the public to report misconduct via the FCT Complaint Response Unit (CRU) at 08107314192.

The FCT Police Command assured the public of its commitment to accountability, respect for human rights, and the delivery of professional policing services across Abuja.

Okanga: The People’s Congressman

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In a political system where many elected officials forget the people who gave them a voice, Chief Dr. Philip Agbese remains grounded, accessible, and loyal to his roots. He is not just a lawmaker in Abuja. He is a constant presence in the lives of his constituents. That is why the people proudly call him “The People’s Congressman.”
Okanga’s leadership is not hidden behind government gates or high office walls. He walks freely among his people, attending local events, sitting in community meetings, visiting markets, schools, and homes. His presence is not occasional; it is consistent. He knows that true representation goes beyond passing motions, it’s about knowing your people, feeling their pain, and helping solve their problems in real time.
From the youth in Otukpa to the elders in Igumale, from the farmers in Utonkon to the traders in Ulayi, Okanga doesn’t need a title to be respected; his humility and service have earned him something greater: trust. He doesn’t wait for the election season to reconnect. He is always within reach, always listening, always showing up.
He responds to calls at midnight. He attends the funerals of his constituents. He celebrates the weddings of his people. He mourns, laughs, and prays with his people. Because to him, representing Enone is not just a job, it is a sacred duty.
Okanga is not a congressman who rules from above, he leads from among. His people don’t see him as distant or untouchable. They see him as one of them, a brother, a son, a neighbour who made it to Abuja but never left home behind.
In a time when public office often creates distance, Okanga builds bridges. He reminds us that politics doesn’t have to be about pride and power. It can be about presence, service, and sincere connection.
This is what makes him different. This is what makes him the People’s Congressman.

NAF Destroys Terrorist Infrastructure in Tumbuktu Triangle Air Offensive

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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), as part of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), dealt a crushing blow to rebels in Borno State. In a major tactical victory, NAF air assets carried out a precision airstrike that destroyed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) factory, several terrorist gun trucks, and neutralized dozens of insurgents in Kwaltiri, which is located within the notorious Tumbuktu Triangle, a key hotspot for terrorist activity.

The successful operation took place on June 18, 2025, following actionable intelligence that suggested an increase in terrorist activity in the area. Surveillance missions revealed the location of an active IED manufacturing factory and many armed vehicles, prompting the coordinated air offensive.

Read Also: Tinubu Visits Kaduna, Commends Uba Sani and Confers National Honour on Col. Umar

Throughout the mission, NAF aircraft struck various targets, delivering accurate strikes that caused significant damage to the insurgents’ infrastructure. According to an official statement, the air raid severely crippled the insurgents’ command and control systems, as well as their supply networks. The destruction of the IED factory reduced the group’s bomb-making capacity, further limiting its ability to launch assaults.

“The successful strikes not only disrupted their command and control as well as logistics chains but also sent shockwaves through their ranks, significantly degrading their morale and operational momentum,” the Navy stated in a press release.

Security experts have complimented the Nigerian military for successfully carrying out this mission, hailing it as a critical step toward combating terrorism in Nigeria’s northeast region. The Tumbuktu Triangle has long functioned as a safe haven for terrorist groups, making its elimination a critical goal in the ongoing counter-insurgency battle.

This current offensive demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to aiding national security operations and promoting regional stability. The mission is part of Operation HADIN KAI’s ongoing efforts to reduce terrorist capabilities and restore peace to communities devastated by insurgency.

Tinubu Visits Kaduna, Commends Uba Sani and Confers National Honour on Col. Umar

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Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has received praise from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his outstanding work in bringing peace, stability, and unity back to the state. The comments were delivered by Tinubu on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during his official visit to Kaduna, where he officially opened a number of important infrastructure projects meant to boost growth and enhance the quality of life for the populace.

The Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, a 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital in Millennium City, and 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses intended to revolutionize the state’s public transportation system were among the projects put into service. In order to improve Kaduna’s transportation system even more, President Tinubu also said that the Federal Government will support the building of a light rail project.

Tinubu commended Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, calling him a force for “progress, unity, love, stability, and change.” He emphasized how the governor has transformed Kaduna from a state plagued by division and insecurity to one that currently experiences comparatively stable and peaceful conditions. “You’re a capable leader. Tinubu remarked, “I’m glad to work with you and I’m proud to say Kaduna is back again.”

During the visit, Tinubu gave Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd), a former governor and June 12 activist, the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), correcting what he claimed was an earlier omission during Democracy Day celebrations. In recognition of Governor Uba Sani’s efforts to democracy and development, Tinubu also named him a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

The president praised Kaduna’s traditional leaders for their support of peacebuilding initiatives. He commended the governor for changing the security environment and recalled the difficulties with security encountered during the 2023 election campaigns, especially in Birnin Gwari. “You can now move to Birnin Gwari even at midnight without fear, as I have it on good record,” Tinubu said.

Read Also: Contempt Case: INEC Staff Said to Have Declined Accepting Court Summons for Yakubu

Governor Uba Sani thanked Tinubu for supporting Kaduna’s development and security agenda. He pointed out that Tinubu’s dedication to the state’s vision was evidenced by the N100 billion allotted for the Kaduna Light-Rail Transit in the 2025 budget. Sani recalled how Kaduna had previously struggled with mistrust and insecurity but underlined that his administration had put in a lot of effort to bring safety back with federal assistance.

The occasion also included honors from retired Gen. Zamani Lekwot, who characterized Tinubu as a God-fearing leader dedicated to Kaduna’s transformation, and former Vice President Namadi Sambo, who praised Tinubu and Sani for finishing the long-abandoned specialty hospital. Governors from Lagos, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Ogun, Kwara, Delta, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Edo, and Jigawa States attended the ceremony, along with high-ranking officials like the National Security Advisor and the Deputy Senate President.

Contempt Case: INEC Staff Said to Have Declined Accepting Court Summons for Yakubu

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is embroiled in a new legal dispute after employees allegedly refused to accept court documents intended for Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the commission’s chairman. Form 48, a legal notice of the consequences of defying a court order, was one of the documents that were to be served as part of the contempt proceedings brought against the INEC boss.

Anselem Nebeife, the National Rescue Movement’s (NRM) national publicity secretary, sounded the alert in Abuja on Friday, June 20, 2025. According to Nebeife, the court bailiff, Mr. Ayuba Sule, purposefully thwarted his attempts to deliver the documents to INEC headquarters.

last comes after a Federal High Court, Abuja, decision earlier last week by Justice Obiora Egwuatu. NRM requested permission from the judge to use any commission employee at its national headquarters to serve Yakubu with the contempt charge. NRM accused INEC of not adhering to a court ruling that acknowledged Chief Edozie Njoku as its national chairman, which prompted this order.

Read Also: Security Scare: Tinubu Speech Interrupted as Bodyguards Intercept Intruder in Kaduna

According to Nebeife, Mr. Sule initially went to the INEC Chairman’s office and provided his identity at the staff’s request. The bailiff was sent to the Legal Department after officials allegedly refused to accept the court documents after reviewing them. There, it is said that another employee looked at Form 48, handed it back, and said, “Don’t you see that this is Form 48? Please, I adore my work. The bailiff became frustrated and placed the documents on the Legal Department floor before leaving the building.

According to legal experts, Form 48 is an important document that serves as a warning about the repercussions of disobeying a court order. Justice Egwuatu had scheduled the contempt hearings for July 15, 2025, emphasizing that the court’s order to serve the notice through any employee must be followed.

INEC is currently under investigation for its adherence to internal reforms and judicial decisions. As the commission’s leadership gets ready for the general elections in 2027, the outcome of the contempt proceedings may have an impact.