₦airaland Forum

No fewer than 100,000 police officers attached to Very Important Persons and politicians will be withdrawn and redeployed to core policing duties, including counter-insurgency operations, as part of a strategy to rout the terrorists rampaging across the country.

President Bola Tinubu ordered the withdrawal of police officers at a security meeting held on Sunday in Abuja, attended by Service Chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services.

A statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said VIPs requiring protection will now be assigned armed operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps instead of the police.

An estimated 100,000 policemen are attached to VIPs and politically exposed persons across the country, while fewer personnel are available for public protection.

Despite several promises by successive Inspectors-General to withdraw the police officers on orderly duties, this has not been done.

A report published in November 2025 by the European Union Agency for Asylum, noted that the Nigeria Police Force has an estimated strength of 371,800 officers serving a population of about 236.7 million people.

It stated that the country’s policing deficits are worsened by the diversion of a significant portion of available personnel to VIP protection rather than community policing and crime prevention.

The report said, “Both recent sources and sources dating back as far as 2007 claimed that the NPF had an estimated strength of 371,800, serving a total population estimated in 2024 at 236,747,130. Many parts of Nigeria, especially remote areas, have few policemen at the stations, thus making the task of protecting and defending the people difficult.’’

Last Thursday, The PUNCH, in an editorial, again demanded the redeployment of policemen offering protection to prominent individuals and politicians.

Announcing the Presidential directive on Sunday, Onanuga said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the withdrawal of police officers currently providing security for Very Important Persons in the country.

“Henceforth, police authorities will deploy them to concentrate on their core police duties. In view of the current security challenges facing the country, President Tinubu is desirous of boosting police presence in all communities.’’

He also disclosed that the President has approved the recruitment of 30,000 additional police personnel and that the Federal Government is working with states to upgrade police training facilities nationwide.

Those in attendance at Sunday’s meeting included the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and Director-General of the DSS, Tosin Adeola Ajayi.

Following reports that the troops guarding St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, were withdrawn some minutes before the school was attacked and dozens of girls taken away, the Defence Headquarters said it had begun a review of the troops’ redeployment.

The President, Christ Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Samuel Oladele, has cautioned Nigerians, especially those using social media platforms against mocking Christian religious leaders over the country’s security challenges.

Oladele during his sermon at the dedication and handing-over service of Christ Apostolic Church, Mountain of Restoration, Osogbo, Osun State, donated by Prof. and Mrs ‘Siji Olamiju on Saturday, said prayers of the religious leaders has kept Nigeria from total disintegration.

The religious leader, who made reference to a particular post he observed on the social media recently, said the author of the message spoke derogatorily about Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Williams Kumuyi and Bishop David Oyedepo, over their inability to use prayers to end insecurity in the country.

Declaring that Nigeria’s spiritual fathers have been praying for the country to experience divine peace, Oladele said social media criticism of clergymen would eventually amount to nothing, imploring Nigerians to pray for leaders in the country, rather than attacking them.

“We are being guided by the Bible and not by the criticism of any social media post by bloggers. The bible remains our own courage and we do His will. There is a way you comport yourself as a minister but we denounce unrighteousness, violence and insecurity.

“The Bible tells us to pray for those who are in authority and not just to criticise. Most of the battles of life, as far as we are concerned, are fought and won on our knees and not necessarily by confronting or criticising people disruptively.

“But we live in the days of mockers and no matter what you do, they don’t see anything good in it. We have our culture and our culture teaches us that when you have an elder, there is a way to talk to them.

“There are men of God everywhere and we are human. You don’t expect perfection from us, but I want to believe that we have men of God in this country who are always on their knees to pray to God for the sustenance of the peace of this country,” Oladele said.

In his admonition to all Nigerians regardless of religious inclination in this era of insecurity, Oladele added, “The Bible says ‘Look on to me, oh you nations,’ We still have to keep looking to God. Without God, there is nothing we can do. It is only which that is done in the heaven,’ that we can achieve here on earth. So, let’s keep trusting God who has helped us this far.

“Why is it that Nigeria has not totally disintegrated? He queried. “It is because we have God who has been looking after us. For Christians generally, let us be the light of the world. Represent God and His interests anywhere you are.”

Earlier, in his address, the donor, Olamiju, said the church was built to appreciate God after he miraculously survived a medical challenge.

He stated readiness to keep supporting efforts that would spread the gospel, urging Nigerians to continue to live in love and mutual respect.

The church dedication was attended by the former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, a former Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Mr. Timothy Owoeye, ex member representing Ijesa South in the House Representatives, Mr. Ajibola Famurewa, royal fathers, religious fathers and members of CAC across Osun State and beyond.

Hiding behind the veil of anonymity that social media platforms sometimes provide, some users usually target clerics with libellious claims, and malicious attacks.

The PUNCH on January 13, 2025, however reported that a youth group known as The Concern Nigerian Christian Youths, called on all relevant security agencies to spare no effort in identifying and prosecuting those who misuse social media to incite religious tension and propagate lies against the church, mosque and clerics.

The group enjoined relevant authorities to intensify the fight against cyberbullying across the country, saying that attacks on the Christian faith and indeed other religions on social media when left unchecked portends a great danger for the country.

The Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation has accused the Central Bank of Nigeria, under the leadership of the former Governor, Godwin Emefiele, of re-circulating dirty and unfit banknotes valued at N29.77bn in violation of the apex bank’s own Clean Note Policy.

The allegation is contained in the newly released Auditor-General’s Annual Report on Non-Compliance and Internal Control Weaknesses in MDAs for the year ended December 31, 2022, which detailed how several CBN branches issued out banknotes already classified as “Counted Audited Dirty”, a category of notes formally processed and certified as unfit for circulation.

According to the audit report, the CBN released the condemned notes across Abuja, Lagos, Bauchi and Jos branches between April and December 2022. The Abuja branch accounted for the bulk of the re-issued notes, with N28.615bn released between October and December 2022.

The Lagos branch issued N970m in December 2022, while Bauchi released N30m in April of the same year. The Jos branch issued N50m and N100m on May 16 and May 27, 2022, respectively.

The report stated, “Audit observed that Counted Audited Dirty banknotes amounting to N29,765,000,000.00 were re-circulated into the system by the Central Bank of Nigeria,” noting that the action contravened the Clean Note Policy Version 0.1 (2018), which states that only authenticated fit notes may be issued into circulation, while unfit notes must not be released by the CBN or commercial banks.

The audit team attributed the violation to weaknesses in the CBN’s internal control systems. It warned that the irregular release of dirty notes could expose the country to reputational damage and reduce note durability.

In response, the CBN offered varying explanations for the breach across the implicated branches. The Abuja branch blamed the COVID-19 pandemic for operational disruptions, saying the scarcity of cash at the time forced the bank to supply dirty notes to “meet cash shortfalls.”

The Bauchi branch denied issuing unfit notes, while the Jos branch said the release was necessitated by military cash demands during periods of heightened insecurity. The Lagos branch attributed its action to increased cash demand during the Christmas season.

However, the Auditor-General rejected all explanations, describing them as “not satisfactory.” The report insisted that the findings would remain valid until the CBN implemented corrective measures.

It then recommended that the Governor of the CBN be summoned by the Public Accounts Committees of the National Assembly to justify the breaches. Where such justification fails, it advises the application of sanctions under the Financial Regulations, which prescribe penalties for gross misconduct by public officials.

The PUNCH observed that the recirculation of dirty notes coincided with the CBN’s controversial naira redesign programme, announced on October 26, 2022. The accelerated rollout triggered a nationwide cash crunch, legal disputes, and, eventually, a Supreme Court ruling that extended the validity of old notes after the deadline had collapsed.

The audit document also highlighted a separate concern involving the delayed destruction of unfit notes. It revealed that 997 boxes of N10 notes valued at N99.7m, declared unfit since November 2021, were still in the vault as of October 2023.

Also, 695 boxes of N500 notes valued at N3.475bn, processed between October and November 2022, were yet to be destroyed. In total, N3.57bn in condemned notes had accumulated due to delays in the briquetting and disposal processes.

The audit warned that the delay created risks of pilferage, loss of public funds, and inefficiency in the bank’s currency management system. The CBN responded that briquetting activities had started and destruction of the notes was ongoing, but auditors again rejected the explanation and maintained their findings.

The revelations add to the scrutiny surrounding Emefiele’s leadership of the CBN. The former governor, who is already facing several corruption and abuse-of-office charges, has been repeatedly accused by government investigators of breaching financial regulations during his tenure.

Although the audit report does not indict him personally, it places responsibility on the CBN management during the period for violating cash-handling protocols and failing to maintain proper internal controls.

However, the Federal Government, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, is prosecuting Emefiele in multiple courts, including a major 19-count fraud case in Lagos and an amended 20-count procurement case in Abuja.

Emefiele is also battling several other corruption and forex-allocation charges pending before both the Federal High Court and the FCT High Court. The audit office recommended that the National Assembly should summon CBN officials to defend the breaches.

The PUNCH earlier in April 2023 reported that bank workers and customers lamented the quality of the old naira notes reintroduced into circulation by the CBN, amidst the gradual disappearance of the new notes.

According to the PUNCH report, bank tellers, who pay cash to customers, and workers in bulk rooms, who collect large cash deposits from depositors, were apprehensive that the dirty, mutilated notes could spread diseases.

A former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has called for dialogue and peaceful resolution following the life imprisonment sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on terrorism charges.

In a post on X on Friday, Sani drew from his own experience of enduring imprisonment under the military regime to describe life imprisonment as a survivable phase rather than a final end.

Sani, who was convicted and sentenced by the late Gen. Sani Abacha military junta and served in the Aba Correctional Centre between 1995 and 1998, recounted the relative kindness he received from most inmates and warders, despite encounters with “a few tough guys.”

He wrote, “Sentencing a man to life imprisonment is not the end of his life. Some of us have been through life imprisonment and we survived it.

“I served my own life imprisonment in Aba Prisons, Abia State, after spending a year in Kiri Kiri and Port Harcourt prisons.

“The inmates and warders treated me well, except for some few tough guys. There is still room for dialogue to resolve the [/b]issue in the interest of peace. Life imprisonment is a phase and not the end.”

Sani’s remarks came amid renewed attention to the detention of Kanu, following reports that he had been moved to a correctional facility in Sokoto.

Kanu’s former lawyer and consultant, Aloy Ejimakor, in a post on X on Friday, expressed concern over the development, saying the relocation places Kanu far from his legal team, family and supporters.

[b]“While urging #Ndigbo to remain calm, I must question the wisdom of sending #MNK to Sokoto prison.

“When Awolowo was convicted in 1963, he was sent to the East, a neutral zone in his feud with the North. Pres. Tinubu can still halt this drift, as I said in this video,” he wrote.

The reported transfer had not been independently confirmed by PUNCH Online as of Friday evening.

Kanu was sentenced on Thursday by the Federal High Court in Abuja for seven terrorism-related charges, a verdict IPOB has rejected as unlawful and politically motivated.

Justice James Omotosho handed him life terms on five of the counts, 20 years on one, and five years on another, all without an option of fine.

The judge also noted that placing Kanu in Kuje Correctional Centre might not be appropriate due to security concerns, suggesting the need for a more secure facility.

Nigeria is witnessing a resurgence of mass abductions as at least 145 people have been kidnapped in Kebbi, Niger and Zamfara states in the past four days.

The resurgence of mass kidnappings raises familiar political and security alarms as the country gears up for the 2027 polls.

In the run-up to the 2023 general elections, abductions were rampant.

A report by The PUNCH showed that between January and March 2023 alone, 792 people were abducted across Nigeria.

Many of these incidents were tied to banditry and criminal gangs, especially in the north.

However, as the political parties are warming up for the 2027 elections, there appears to be a resurgence of the situation.

In the early hours of Monday, armed men stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, abducting 25 female students and killing a staff member.

A school guard was also injured during the attack, which occurred early in the morning.

The Nigeria Police Force, in a statement shared via its WhatsApp channel, confirmed the incident, noting that police tactical units deployed within the school engaged the attackers but the gunmen escaped with the abducted students.

The police said additional tactical teams, in collaboration with the military and vigilantes, have been deployed to comb suspected bandit routes and nearby forests in a bid to rescue the victims and arrest the perpetrators.

“On November 17, 2025, at about 0400hrs, a gang of armed bandits with sophisticated weapons stormed the school, shooting sporadically.

“The police tactical units engaged them in a gun duel, but the bandits had already scaled the fence and abducted 25 students. One Hassan Makuku was shot dead, while Ali Shehu sustained an injury to his right hand, “ the statement partly read.

The force spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, could not be reached for more information on the incident.

But the Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, Bello Sani, reiterated the command’s resolve to protect residents and urged the public to remain calm and support ongoing operations.

The Kebbi incident came just two days after at least 16 vigilante members were killed and 42 residents kidnapped in seperate attacks by bandits in the Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State.

Also, on Saturday, bandits attacked Fegin Baza village in the Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, killing three persons and abducting at least, 64 others.

In another attack on Sunday, bandits launched a fresh assault on Tsohuwar Tasha village in the Ruwan Doruwa Ward of Maru Local Government, abducting 14 people, including 11 women and three children.

Recent reports by Daily Trust indicates that communities in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Maradun, Tsafe and Bungudu LGAs of Zamfara State have faced repeated assaults in recent months, leading to displacement and the imposition of levies and ransoms by armed groups.

Swift rescue pledged

The Federal Government expressed deep concern over the abduction of the female students from Government Girls Secondary School, vowing to ensure their safe return.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Monday.

Idris noted that President Bola Tinubu, has reiterated that protecting every Nigerian, especially schoolchildren, remains a solemn responsibility of the state.

The government condemned the attack on the school, describing it as “reprehensible” and decried the killing of school officials who were carrying out their duties.

He added, “Our security and intelligence agencies have been issued clear directives to locate, rescue, and safely return the students, and to ensure that the perpetrators face justice.

“The Federal Government will not relent until this objective is achieved.

“We assure Nigerians that strengthening internal security remains a top priority. The Federal Government is recalibrating the nation’s military, policing, and intelligence capabilities to more effectively prevent these attacks and respond with greater speed and precision whenever threats arise.”

The minister further stated that government is intensifying collaboration with regional partners through the Economic Community of West African States, the African Union, and the Multinational Joint Task Force to secure the borders and dismantle terrorist and criminal networks.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force and the military have launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation to recover the abducted students.

Minister condemns attack

The Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle condemned the attack on the Kebbi school, describing it as “totally unacceptable.”

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by Enderline Chukwu, Assistant Director (Information & Public Relations), on behalf of the Director of Information & Public Relations of the ministry, the minister said the president had directed all security agencies to urgently coordinate efforts to locate and secure the release of the abducted students.

“The government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has directed that the state’s security apparatus swing into immediate action to ensure the abducted students are released unharmed, “ he added.

The statement added that the minister urged security forces to work collectively to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Matawalle also appealed for calm in the affected communities, advising residents to go about their normal activities while government and security agencies work to resolve the situation.

Atiku, PDP react

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the People’s Democratic Party have condemned the Kebbi school attack as well as other abduction cases.
In a statement posted on his Facebook, the former VP said he was devastated by the news of the tragic attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.

He said, “This is yet another reminder of the worsening insecurity in our nation.
I equally condemn the killing of an APC chieftain, Umar Moriki, and the mass abductions in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara, where entire families, including women and children, were taken by bandits. These acts of barbarity have no place in a civilized society.

Similar tragedies continue to unfold in Plateau, Benue, and other states, where communities are being torn apart by violence. In Shanono LGA of Kano, residents are fleeing their homes in fear, highlighting a national security challenge that has reached intolerable levels.”

He added, “Nigeria cannot continue on this path. I call on the Federal Government to urgently review and strengthen its security architecture, deploy adequate personnel across vulnerable communities, and intensify intelligence-led operations. Our citizens deserve protection, dignity, and peace—nothing less.”

Also, the PDP, in a statement issued on Monday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Emomobong, faulted the Federal Government for what it described as its inability to curb the escalating wave of insecurity across the country.

“This tragic incident further highlights the alarming rise in insecurity that has become the lived reality of the majority of Nigerians under the Tinubu-led APC administration, which has consistently preferred the politicisation of governance over the protection of citizens,” the party said.

It added that any government that fails in its primary duty of protecting lives and property must accept responsibility and confront the crisis head-on, “rather than act aloof or attempt to deflect from the core issues, as this administration has repeatedly done.”

The PDP condoled with the parents of the abducted students, the family of the slain Vice Principal, as well as the staff and management of the school and the Kebbi State Government.

The party noted that beyond the “deeply troubling” Maga school attack, similar abductions had recently taken place in Nasarawa, Plateau, Kano, and Katsina states — a trend it said was at odds with the promises made to Nigerians.

It urged President Bola Tinubu to devote urgent and adequate attention to security, saying the repeated tragedies must be halted.
“Do we need a foreign country to threaten the government before it acts? Let the killings stop,” the statement added

Security experts speak

Speaking on the rising wave of kidnappings ahead of the 2027 polls, security analyst and a retired Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Ojukwu said the run-up to elections in Nigeria often witnesses a spike in politically motivated abductions.

He[b] said, “In the build-up to elections in Nigeria, it is not uncommon to record a spike in the incidences of abductions. Some political actors may want to disroganise the camp of their opponents, distract their strategies or to plainly discomfit and embarrass them.

“A number of such abductions end up on a sad fatal note, either as payback or to finally nail the coffin on the aspiration of opponents. “[/b]

He added that elections are sometimes treated as a do-or-die contest where “almost everything is weaponised, including human lives.

Ojukwu stated, “Elections are often viewed as a kind of do-or-die battle, and almost everything is weaponised, including human lives. In the stiff competition and rivalry, human lives become pawns and dispensable, so long as victory is assured. And so, an abduction is proof of superiority of one group over the other, as the abductee is rendered impotent and comatose.

“Again, the law enforcement apparatus is usually overstretched in election periods such that many details in their operation order are missed or neglected.”

But retired Commissioner of Police Ladodo Rabiu rejected the idea that elections alone explain the rise in kidnappings, stressing that insecurity has become deeply rooted and continuous.

“It’s not always during elections. If you are current with what has been happening, insecurity across Nigeria is growing — especially in our area here in the Northwest. And these kidnappings have never stopped elections from holding.

“Check the electoral laws. They have their own provisions for conducting elections even when there are kidnappings and other security issues. I’ve witnessed many elections; despite insecurity, elections were still carried out.

“The problem is that during campaigns, insecurity becomes a talking point. But in my opinion, it’s not only elections — politics in general is taking advantage of the insecurity.

“I have a fear, and I always express it. The government is trying its best to fight crime, particularly kidnappings. Security agencies are trying too. But my question is: why are we still experiencing insecurity here and there? Some parts of the country are negotiating with bandits; others are fighting them and dealing with capital offences.

“I don’t have a problem with negotiation, but many areas are not covered in these negotiations. For example, negotiating with bandits while leaving them with their arms — government should not allow that.

“Government must restrategise. It should come up with proper policies and measures. When I served in Angola under the United Nations, we adopted what is called integration — reintegrating criminals or bandits and making them members of society.

“There was the use of both kinetic and non-kinetic measures. You journalists, in your investigative work, should also try to find out why the government is doing certain things at a particular time and yet insecurity persists.

"I know there are problems here and there. Government is not fully taking care of security agencies. There is corruption and politics within the security system. But these issues can be addressed; they can be dealt with.”

On the way forward, Rabiu admonished the government to be more serious.

“Security agencies must be empowered. Members of the public must also play their part. Security is not the responsibility of government alone — it is everybody’s business.There are layers of security we can adopt. That is it.”

On his part, Retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Wilson Inalegwu called for a comprehensive strengthening of Nigeria’s security architecture, emphasizing local-level policing, community partnerships, and empowerment of security personnel as key strategies to combat rising insecurity across the country ahead of the elections.

While acknowledging the successes of federal security operations, Inalegwu stressed the importance of addressing local-level challenges.

He noted that local government security committees and community policing initiatives are critical for detecting and responding to threats.

“Even, if we have five million security personnel, they cannot do it alone. Winning the confidence of the public is key. If people give information and nothing comes of it, they lose trust.”

He also advocated greater coordination across all layers of the security apparatus, from the National Security Council to state and local government committees.

According to Inalegwu, effective communication and trust between communities and security forces are essential in tackling insecurity.

On manpower, Inalegwu warned that the police force is severely understaffed.

"You see police stations whose personnel should be 200 or 300 officers, but there are only 50 or 60 officers. If you can’t secure your divisional headquarters, how do you put personnel on the streets?” he asked.

The former AIG further directed attention to the Special Constabulary provision under the Police Act 2020, suggesting that trained and agile community vigilantes could be converted into officially recognised special constables, paid stipends, and integrated into divisional police structures to strengthen operational capacity while preventing abuses.

He noted, however, that governors and subnational leaders often resist this approach due to fears over control.

The Nigeria Football Federation has issued an open and sincere apology to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and millions of Nigerians, particularly loyal football fans, following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

In a statement obtained from NFF’s X handle on Monday, the football body said Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat remains a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football, stressing that for a nation where the Super Eagles serve as a symbol of unity, hope, and collective pride, missing out on the World Cup for a second consecutive time is a disappointment of great weight and emotional depth.

“The NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the gravity of this moment. We understand the expectations Nigerians rightly hold. We understand the passion and sacrifice of a country that has always stood firmly behind its team, through triumphs and trials. And we recognise that our collective effort did not deliver the outcome this nation deserved.

“In the dressing room after the match, the pain among the players was palpable. Many struggled to speak.

Throughout the long journey of this qualification campaign, we were privileged to receive enormous support from the Federal Government through the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, key Ministries, Departments and Agencies, our diplomatic missions, the media, and, above all, the passionate fans whose devotion remains unmatched anywhere in the world.

“Football in Nigeria is more than a game. It is a national language. A bridge across cultures, a source of pride and emotional identity. A powerful symbol of unity that binds over 200 million people as one family. We owe it to this nation to honour that bond with sincerity, accountability, and action,” the statement read.

Looking ahead, NFF said its immediate focus turns to the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, which presents an opportunity for healing, renewal, and the demonstration of the resilience that has always defined Nigerian football.

“In the coming days, the NFF Board and Management will undertake a rigorous, honest, and strategic review process. This will evaluate technical, administrative, and structural gaps that contributed to this outcome and guide decisive steps to reposition Nigeria’s national teams for future success.

“The NFF solemnly commits to the people of Nigeria: we will rebuild trust, restore pride, and reclaim our standing on the global stage. This setback will not be the final word on Nigerian football.

“Nigeria is a nation of resilience, spirit, and unyielding hope. Just as the nation rises from every challenge, so too will the Super Eagles,” NFF said.

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have ambushed a convoy of soldiers and operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The incident happened on Friday at Damboa road along Wajiroko in Borno state.

TheCable understands that the ISWAP fighters ambushed troops and CJTF operatives who were transporting some military equipment.

The ISWAP fighters were said to have opened fire on the military convoy along the road — an incident that led to a gun duel between the troops and the insurgents.

During the gun duel, two CJTF operatives and two soldiers were killed.

At least 17 military motorcycles were seized by the ISWAP fighters.

TheCable understands Brigadier General M. Uba, a brigade commander, who was initially feared missing, was said to have returned to the military base

However, some military personnel are reported missing after the attack.

Onyechi Anele, army spokesperson, has not responded to an enquiry about the incident.

Buba Marwa, chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has warned drug cartels that his second tenure will be “hell” for them.

On Friday, President Bola Tinubu renewed Marwa’s appointment as NDLEA chairman by another five years, which will end in 2031.

Marwa, a former military governor of Lagos, was first appointed to the position by the late ex-President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2021, after serving as the chairman of the presidential advisory committee for the elimination of drug abuse from 2018 to 2020.

In a statement released on Sunday, Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, said officials of the agency gathered at the agency’s national headquarters in Abuja to welcome Marwa following his reappointment.

Babafemi said Marwa commended Tinubu, Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, and Wale Edun, minister of finance, for their support.

He said the NDLEA boss warned those engaging in illicit drug trafficking to desist from the criminal business and embrace legitimate enterprise.

“First of all, what a surprise; I did not expect to come back from the Jumat service to meet these great felicitations, dancing and singing by our personnel,” the statement reads.

“First, this word must go to the cartels. The cartels have not seen anything yet. I promise them this second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass in or out of or within Nigeria.

“At the same time, I must appeal to those who are engaged in illicit drug trafficking that this is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate.

“It is in line with that that we established the Alternative Development Unit, which seeks to persuade those who are perpetrating the illicit drug activities, particularly cannabis growers, who are our greatest challenge in Nigeria, to desist from the habit, collaborate with us.”

The Super Eagles have confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to play in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against DR Congo, ending nearly two days of confusion over the midfielder’s status, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The team announced on their official X account on Saturday that CAF had clarified the rules, stating that yellow cards accumulated during the qualifiers do not carry over into the playoff round and that only confirmed suspensions apply.

“CAF has confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to feature for the Super Eagles in Sunday’s playoff clash against DR Congo. Cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs; only confirmed suspensions apply,” the post read.

The update reverses an earlier position from the NFF, which had stated through its director of communication, Dr Ademola Olajire, that the midfielder would miss the match after receiving his second yellow card of the qualification series in Thursday’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon.

The NFF’s statement quoted head coach Eric Chelle describing Ndidi as an important figure whose experience, ability and leadership were central to the team.

Chelle noted that the squad had enough depth to manage his expected absence and that the midfielder would continue to support the group.

“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team. But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players, and we will make changes.

“Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence,” Chelle said.

Chelle had been preparing to choose between Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka to fill the role, with Onyeka having strengthened the midfield effectively during extra time on Thursday. The coach was also set to welcome back centre-back Semi Ajayi, who had completed a suspension and was available for selection.

The new clarification comes after Ndidi marked a personal milestone on Thursday, earning his 70th cap for Nigeria and providing an assist in a commanding midfield display.

Ndidi’s reinstatement is a significant boost for the Super Eagles as they face a confident DR Congo side that eliminated Cameroon with a stoppage-time goal.

A total of 4,193 doctors and dentists left Nigeria for greener pastures in 2024, according to the Nigeria Health Statistics Report released by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The report, obtained by our correspondent on Friday, shows that the migration of health workers surged by 200 per cent across all cadres between 2023 and 2024.

It notes that thousands of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses and allied health workers, left the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

An analysis of the document reveals that 43,221 doctors, nurses, pharmacists and medical laboratory scientists migrated out of the country between 2023 and 2024.

The figures highlight a deepening brain drain within Nigeria’s health sector, with highly skilled professionals relocating to countries offering better remuneration, career prospects and working conditions.

The report warns that the exodus poses a serious challenge to Nigeria’s healthcare system, especially in underserved areas, and underscores the urgent need for policies aimed at retaining health workers and strengthening domestic capacity.

It reads in part: “Nigeria’s health workforce recorded steady growth between 2022 and 2024 across major professional groups, with notable increases in doctors (18 per cent), nurses and midwives (13 per cent), pharmacists (27 per cent), and laboratory scientists (39 per cent), reflecting expanded training capacity and policy reforms.

“However, significant licensing gaps persist, and only about half of registered professionals are actively licensed to practise, highlighting regulatory bottlenecks and workforce underutilisation. Despite these gains, rural–urban and sectoral disparities remain pronounced, with the majority of health workers concentrated in urban and public settings.

“Attrition, especially through external migration, remains a significant challenge. External migration surged by 200 per cent across all cadres between 2023 and 2024. In 2024 alone, a total of 4,193 doctors and dentists left Nigeria, with approximately 66 per cent migrating to the United Kingdom. Nurses and midwives are the most affected groups.”

For the 2023–2024 period, the top 10 destinations for Nigerian doctors and dentists were: the United Kingdom (4,627), Canada (934), the United States (561), Australia (188), the United Arab Emirates (140), Ireland (113), the Maldives (77), Botswana (67), India (57) and Saudi Arabia (43).

As of 2024, more than 23,000 Nigerian nurses and midwives had also migrated abroad in search of better employment opportunities and improved working conditions. Pharmacists and medical laboratory scientists have likewise joined the exodus.

Top destinations for pharmacists included Canada (765), the United Kingdom (196), Australia (88), the United States (53), the Republic of Ireland (30), the United Arab Emirates (nine), South Africa (three), Rwanda (two), Germany (two) and Saudi Arabia (two).

For medical laboratory scientists, the leading countries of migration were Canada (6,393), the United Arab Emirates (2,010), Ireland (1,500), the United States (1,052) and the United Kingdom (410).

The mass migration of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and laboratory scientists between 2023 and 2024 has further strained the system, leaving clinics and hospitals with fewer personnel to meet rising patient demand.

Although the Federal Government has employed over 37,000 healthcare workers from 2023 to date — with more than 75 per cent in clinical roles — a significant workforce gap remains.

Speaking during the Joint Annual Report meeting of the health sector in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, said:

“Our doctor-to-population ratio is 1:5,000 (against the WHO recommendation of 1:600), while the nurse-to-population ratio is as low as 1:2,000 (against the WHO recommendation of 1:300). This is further compounded by inequities in the distribution of health workers, where 75 per cent are concentrated in urban areas, serving 45 per cent of the population.”

He added that the government remains committed to addressing these challenges by strengthening primary healthcare systems, expanding the Health Workforce Registry, increasing training quotas for health professionals and implementing retention policies to curb migration.

“Though migration continues to adversely affect retention, a health workforce migration policy has been developed to achieve better retention and foster more collaborative contributions from Nigerian health professionals in the diaspora,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s goal of building a resilient health system capable of responding to shocks and delivering quality care to Nigerians, noting that these interventions form part of the broader Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiatives.

Former military Generals have expressed outrage over Tuesday’s clash between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer identified as A. Yerima, over alleged land grabbing.

The veterans, in separate interviews with The PUNCH on Wednesday, asserted that such confrontations undermine the chain of command and institutional respect.

In the wake of the outrage that trailed the incident, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, said the ministry is investigating the matter. He assured that the Armed Forces would protect personnel carrying out lawful duties.

Speaking at a press briefing to commence activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the National Defence College, Abuja, the defence minister lauded Yerima for his composure during his face-off with the FCT minister.

“At the ministry, and indeed the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty,’’ he noted. “We are looking into this issue and assure that any officer performing his duties lawfully will be highly protected. We will not allow anything to happen to him so long as he is doing his job, and he is doing it very well.”

The stand-off between Wike and the officer followed a row over the ownership of a piece of land being guarded by some armed military officers led by Yerima, on the instruction of a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.).

Wike had alleged that the ex-CNS illegally took over the land. A video obtained by The PUNCH showed the visibly enraged minister confronting the officer.

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, asked Wike to publicly apologise to President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces, and the military officer involved in the clash.

Buratai, who served as Chief of Army Staff between 2015 and 2021, said Wike’s conduct was inappropriate and amounted to disrespect for the military.

Buratai, in a post on his Facebook page on Tuesday night, said, “The events of November 11, 2025, involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, demand an immediate and serious response.

“His public disparagement of a uniformed officer of the Nigerian Armed Forces transcends mere misconduct; it represents a palpable threat to national security and institutional integrity.

“A minister’s verbal assault on a military officer in uniform is an act of profound indiscipline that strikes at the core of our nation’s command and control structure. It deliberately undermines the chain of command, disrespects the authority of the Commander-in-Chief and grievously wounds the morale of every individual who serves under the Nigerian flag. Such actions erode the very foundation of discipline upon which our national security apparatus stands.”

Brig Gen Peter Aro (retd.) said the clash highlights the importance of respecting proper channels in a democracy.

He said, “The clash between Minister Wike and the young naval officer goes beyond personalities: it reflects how power should and should not be exercised in a democracy. The officer, by every account, was acting under lawful orders from his superior, the former Chief of Naval Staff; his duty was to obey the chain of command, not to improvise under political pressure.’’

While acknowledging the minister’s right to raise questions about the title of the disputed land, Aro faulted the process adopted by the former Rivers state governor.

“The minister, on the other hand, had every right to raise questions about land or its use, but only through lawful channels such as writing to the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, or approaching the courts. A public confrontation that diminishes institutional respect exposes the government’s internal disarray before the world.”

He added, “If this episode is not publicly condemned, it sends a dangerous message to the men and women who risk their lives daily for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The military must remain disciplined, but civilian leaders must also model restraint and humility.”

Retired Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi described the incident as unacceptable.

“I did not expect a minister to behave like that toward a commissioned officer. The military is not just any organisation; it is under the command of the President, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Any confrontation with a military officer is, by extension, a confrontation with the Commander-in-Chief and should not be tolerated,” he said.

Wike’s aide defends principal

But the Senior Special Assistant on Publicity and Communications to the FCT minister, Lere Olayinka, defended Wike’s actions, describing the incident as the outcome of a land scam that misled a former naval chief.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on Wednesday, Olayinka said the disputed plot of land was originally allocated in 2007 for park and recreation purposes, not for residential or commercial development.

“That particular land was allocated to a company in 2007, Santos Estate Limited, for park and recreation. The company did not do anything on the land because that place is a parkway, it’s a walkway, a road corridor. You don’t build there,” Olayinka said.

He explained that in 2022, the company applied to the FCT Administration for a change of land use from park to commercial, but the request was declined.

“In 2022, the minister of FCT declined that request. Wike was not the minister then,” he noted.

According to Olayinka, despite the rejection, the company illegally partitioned the land and sold portions to private individuals, including Gambo.

“Probably in anticipation of the minister’s approval for conversion, the man decided to partition the land, a land allocated to him for park and recreation.

“He now partitioned the land and sold it to people, including the former Chief of Naval Staff,” he explained.

The aide also faulted the retired CNS’s response, alleging that he attempted to use military influence to assert ownership over the land.

“That is why I want to say that the Chief of Naval Staff was scammed. He has realised that he was scammed. Instead of coming out to seek help, he resorted to using military might.

“After selling land allocated to you for park and recreation, for people to build a house, who should the Chief of Naval Staff go and hold? The person who’s claiming or the government? “He chose not to hold the person or company who scammed him.”

Olayinka further clarified that the land in question lies within the Mabushi area, designated for public and corporate buildings, not private residences.

He added that Gambo had no valid title or approved building plan for the land.

“Again, that particular portion has now been designated for, you know, if you know Abuja very well, you know how Mabushi is.

“That is where you have the Ministry of Works environment. That portion of the land, that pathway is for public buildings and corporate buildings, not residential, meaning that you cannot build a residential house there.

“As of today, Vice Admiral Gambo does not have a document, a title document, showing that he owns the land. He does not own the land,” he added.

The aide further explained that “assuming but not conceding that he has title documents and he owns the land, before you begin development of a land, there are processes you must pass through.

“One of such processes is to have a building plan, a building plan showing what you want to put on the land. And you take your building plan to the development control.

“The question Nigerians should ask Vice Admiral Gambo is, did he take his building plan on that land to the development control? And did development control approve the building plan?”

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria and constitutional law expert, Prof. Sebastine Hon, faulted Yerima’s confrontation with the minister, insisting his action was a “breach of the law.”

Reacting to the incident in a Facebook post on Wednesday, Hon condemned the officer’s decision to obstruct Wike’s access to the disputed plot of land, saying the act could not be justified under any lawful military order.

“Brushing sentiments aside, I hereby condemn in totality the actions of the Naval Officer, A.M. Yerima, who obstructed the FCT Minister from gaining access to that parcel of land, under the guise of ‘obeying superior orders.’

“The duty of a junior officer to obey the orders of his superiors, even though strongly upheld in military and paramilitary circles, has its own limitations recognised by no other authority but the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” he wrote.

Hon cited Supreme Court rulings in Onunze v. State (2023) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1885) 61 and Nigeria Air Force v. James (2002) 18 NWLR (Pt. 798) 295, which, according to him, clearly established that military officers are not bound to obey illegal or manifestly unjust orders.

“The illegality in that order stems primarily from the fact that no service law of the military permits a serving military officer to mount guard at the private construction site of his boss, especially under suspicious circumstances like this,” he stated.

He added that if security concerns existed, “the retired Naval Officer ought, under the circumstances, to have engaged the civil police.”

Hon further stressed that Wike exercises the powers of the President over land administration in Abuja, pursuant to sections 297(2) and other provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“By section 302 of the same Constitution, read together with other extant Acts of the National Assembly, the President of Nigeria has delegated all powers with respect to land administration in the FCT Abuja to the minister.

“Going by constitutional and administrative law, therefore, Mr Wike stood in loco of the President of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces on that fateful day.

“Consequently, even if the superior officer were still in service, he would not disobey Mr Wike or obstruct him from entering the land. This was an affront to the civil authority of Mr President.”

While acknowledging the minister’s method may be brash, he said Wike’s action “is legal and lawful in all respects.’’

“Rather, it is the officer who obstructed him that has breached not just the Nigerian Constitution, but also service and extant regulatory laws.

“For the avoidance of any doubt, section 114 of the Armed Forces Act makes military personnel criminally liable for civil offences.

“This means the officer in question could be arraigned before a Court Martial for obstructing a public officer from performing his public duties, et cetera,” he added.

The law professor cautioned against celebrating the incident, warning that condoning such acts could embolden security personnel to disrespect civil authority.

“If such intolerable conduct by the young officer is not punished or is celebrated, this may unleash a reign of terror by the men in khaki against hapless civilians — with a grin or boast that ‘we did it to Wike and nothing happened,’” he concluded.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Simon Lough, said the minister acted within his legal authority as the President’s representative in the FCT, but questioned the propriety of his visit to the site.

According to him, “Legally, a minister, in this case being Nyesom Wike, is a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, appointed by the President to exercise powers vested in him by the Constitution in the Federal Capital Territory. Whatever action the minister takes is presumed to be an act of the President.”

Lough explained that all land in the FCT belongs to the Federal Government by virtue of the Constitution and the FCT Act.

“The President, through the provisions of the law, delegates the management of all FCT lands to the Minister,” he stated.

He cited several Supreme Court decisions affirming that only the FCT Minister has the authority to allocate or grant titles to land in the territory.

The retired deputy commissioner of police argued that while the minister was empowered to inspect any land in the FCT, his physical presence at the site was unnecessary.

“He undermined his office. As a minister representing the President, he should have directed an official correspondence or investigation instead of personally going to the location,” he pointed out.

The SAN further stressed that if the former CNS had acquired the land through irregular means, the minister should have formally written to the Chief of Defence Staff or the appropriate authorities to address the matter.

Speaking further, he said the soldier’s presence at the site raised questions of legality.

“The issue is whether that duty was a legal one. A soldier swears an oath to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Nigeria, not to guard a private property belonging to a retired officer,” Lough observed.

He nonetheless faulted both sides, saying the situation could have been handled more prudently.

“Though the minister may have overreacted, the officer conducted himself maturely. Everyone involved bears some responsibility,” he said.

Another senior lawyer, who pleaded anonymity, criticised Wike’s conduct, saying it was unbecoming of a public officer of his status.

“I do not agree with his behaviour. How can you openly call a military officer a fool? Even if the soldier was in the wrong, two wrongs do not make a right,” he said.

He stressed that the minister could have pursued legal remedies rather than resort to “self-help.”.

The law prescribes procedures for reclaiming or repossessing land. A minister, even acting as the President’s delegate, cannot take the law into his hands. The officer could have sued him for assault.”

Also weighing in, Abuja-based lawyer and human rights advocate, Pelumi Olajengbesi, wondered if the FCT minister had any lawful authority to command or intimidate a military officer.

Olajengbesi explained that under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the command and operational use of the Armed Forces rest exclusively with the President as Commander-in-Chief, exercised through the military chain of command and not through any civilian minister.

“The Armed Forces Act vests day-to-day command in the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs. A soldier on duty takes orders only from superior officers, not from any minister,” he stated.

He clarified that while the FCT minister represents the President in civil administration, such authority does not extend to military command.

“No minister can lawfully countermand a soldier’s orders or issue binding instructions to an officer on duty,” he asserted.

Olajengbesi argued that although the FCT minister controls land administration, any conflict involving military personnel should be escalated through the proper security channels or to the President, not through confrontation. “Such behaviour is reckless, primitive, and an abuse of office,” he said.

He warned that the law offers no immunity for ministers who act unlawfully. “A minister who intimidates or obstructs an officer on lawful duty can be investigated and prosecuted like any other citizen,” Olajengbesi declared.

He urged the government to address the incident decisively, cautioning that unchecked excesses by political officeholders could lead to future clashes between civilians and the military.

“The Constitution draws a clear line; ministers handle civil administration while the President, through the military chain of command, controls the troops. A soldier answers to his commanders, not politicians.”

The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted a man, David Udensik, also known as Dr Jacob Bello, for his involvement in an international oil fraud worth over $1m.

PUNCH Metro learnt this from a statement by the Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the conviction followed a petition by a United States–based energy company, which accused the suspect of defrauding it under the guise of facilitating crude oil transactions in Nigeria.

Hundeyin added that investigations by operatives of the National Cybercrime Centre revealed that Udensik ran a criminal network between 2018 and 2023,

Udensik was also said to have forged documents allegedly issued by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other regulatory agencies to deceive the victim company.

The statement read, “Nigeria Police Force has secured the conviction of one Mr David Udensik, also known as Dr Jacob Bello, for his role in a transnational oil-related fraud scheme amounting to over One Million United States Dollars (USD $1,000,000). The conviction followed a petition by a United States–based energy company, alleging that the suspect obtained funds from the firm under the pretext of facilitating legitimate crude oil transactions in Nigeria.

“Acting on the petition, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force – National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) commenced investigations, which revealed that the suspect, between 2018 and 2023, operated a coordinated criminal network that forged documents purportedly emanating from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other regulatory platforms to deceive the victim company.”

According to the statement, forensic analysis confirmed that the documents, seals and authentication materials used in the transactions were fake, while funds traced from the deal were allegedly diverted into accounts linked to the suspect and his accomplices.

Hundeyin further stated that the court, delivering its judgement on October 22, 2025, found Udensik guilty of forgery, obtaining by false pretence and money laundering.

“The court further ordered the forfeiture of assets valued at several hundreds of millions of Naira, including real estate and other properties derived from the proceeds of the crime, to facilitate restitution to the victim company,” the statement added.

Hundeyin, however, noted that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers who handled the investigation and prosecution for their professionalism.

“He affirms the commitment of the Force to protecting Nigeria’s corporate integrity and ensuring that cyber-enabled financial criminals, irrespective of status or location, are brought to justice,” the statement concluded.

PUNCH Metro reported in May that the police arrested one Dauda Samuel for his alleged involvement in the Force recruitment scam, computer-related fraud, and identity theft, following credible intelligence and multiple complaints from members of the public.

The conviction marks another breakthrough in the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing clampdown on cyber-enabled financial crimes and transnational oil fraud. Over the past decade, several foreign firms have fallen victim to similar scams involving forged crude oil sale documents and impersonation of government officials.

Despite billions of naira spent yearly to cushion hardship, a new World Bank report says Nigeria’s social safety-net programmes are failing to reach those who need them the most.

In the new report titled “The State of Social Safety Nets in Nigeria”, obtained on Tuesday, the bank revealed that only 44 per cent of total benefits from government-funded safety-net schemes actually reach poor Nigerians.

The November 2025 report examines Nigeria’s spending on social safety nets, assessing their coverage and efficiency, and reveals how poor targeting, weak funding, and fragmented implementation have left millions of vulnerable citizens without meaningful relief despite the government’s lofty poverty-reduction promises.

Recently, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, announced that the federal government is targeting 15 million households, covering some 70 million people via the digital cash-grant scheme.

He disclosed that about 8.5 million households have already received at least one tranche of the N25,000 payment, while the remaining 6.5 million households are expected to be paid before year-end.

Despite this, the World Bank described Nigeria’s social safety-net spending as inefficient, saying a smaller portion of benefits goes to the poor despite their dominance among beneficiaries.

According to the bank, while about 56 per cent of the recipients of safety-net programmes are poor, they receive only 44 per cent of the total benefits. It explained that this imbalance stems from the way most programmes, including the National Social Safety Nets Programme, allocate a fixed amount per household rather than per person.

As a result, poor families, often larger in size, end up sharing limited benefits among more members. The report noted that initiatives such as the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, which focus on individuals rather than households, are less affected by this problem.

However, it added that the school feeding scheme currently targets only pupils in grades one to three and lacks full national coverage, restricting the number of children who can benefit.

“Safety nets expenditure is inefficient, with a smaller share of benefits going to the poor. While 56 per cent of the beneficiaries are poor, only 44 per cent of the total safety net benefits go to the poor. For each programme category, the share of benefits going to the poor is lower than the share of beneficiaries who are poor. This inefficiency arises because benefit levels for most programmes, including the NASSP cash transfer programme, are determined at the household level, but poor people tend to live in larger households.

“That is, even for well-targeted programs, the same benefit amount is divided over a larger number of people living in poorer households. Programs such as the NHGSFP, which target individuals and not households, should be less affected by these issues. But NHGSFP only benefits children in grades 1 to 3, and does not yet have full coverage, which limits the number of children per household that can benefit from the program,” the report declared.

According to the bank, Nigeria spends barely 0.14 per cent of its Gross Domestic Product on social protection, far below the global average of 1.5 per cent and the Sub-Saharan African average of 1.1 per cent. That tiny allocation, the report warns, has had “almost no impact” on poverty. The combined effect of all existing social protection programmes in the country has reduced the national poverty headcount by just 0.4 percentage points.

To put it simply, despite government claims of multiple intervention schemes, from conditional cash transfers to school feeding programmes, the needle on poverty has barely moved. The report blames the weak impact on poor design and benefit dilution.

While some programmes, like the National Social Safety Nets Programme, disburse a flat amount per household, poorer households are typically larger, meaning the money is stretched among more mouths.

For instance, a family of eight in a rural village and a family of three in a semi-urban area may receive the same transfer, even though the former faces deeper hardship.

Other schemes, like the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, which feeds primary school pupils, target individuals instead of households. Yet, they reach only children in grades one to three and cover a limited number of schools.

The World Bank also expressed concern over Nigeria’s heavy dependence on foreign donors to finance its social safety nets. Between 2015 and 2021, official development assistance accounted for about 60 per cent of federal spending on safety-net programmes, with the World Bank providing over 90 per cent of that support.

The report cautioned that this dependence puts Nigeria at risk of funding gaps whenever donor support declines. “There is an urgent need for Nigeria to find fiscal space for sustainable social safety-net programming,” the bank warned.

“At the existing level of social protection expenditure, there is almost no impact on the overall poverty headcount rate, gap, or depth. The impact on the poverty headcount rate of all social safety net expenditure combined is just 0.4 percentage points. The minimal impact is explained, first and foremost, by the low coverage of and low expenditures on safety net programmes.

“In addition, the inadequacy of benefit levels, particularly of the programs with the largest coverage, limits the ability of these programs to lift many out of poverty. Many programs implemented by the federal, state, and local levels, as well as safety net programs implemented by religious bodies, fail to reach the neediest. The low coverage, together with low benefit size and poor targeting, contribute to the negligible impacts of extant safety nets on the overall poverty headcount rate in Nigeria.

“It is, therefore, not surprising that the poverty impacts of safety net programs in Nigeria are much lower than in most other LMICs. The range of poverty impacts in Nigeria is even lower than the average among not just the LMICs, but also low-income countries with lower incomes and a higher extent of poverty.

“Likewise, the overall impact on inequality among the poor also remains low. The extant safety net programmes lower the poverty gap, the income needed to lift everyone to the poverty line (expressed as a percentage of the poverty line), by 0.2 percentage points and the overall depth of poverty by 0.15 percentage points.”

Furthermore, the bank stated that the poorest households in Nigeria are larger, which leads to the benefit being spread thinly among many family members. This further contributes to the negligible impacts on reducing inequality among the poor, as measured by the gap and severity of poverty.

“That being said, if well-targeted programmes are scaled up, then the poverty impacts can be significantly higher. For instance, the NASSP cash transfer programme has a much larger effect on poverty and inequality of its beneficiaries,” it stated.

The bank, however, acknowledged that the National Social Safety Nets Programme, which uses the National Social Registry to identify and reach poor households, has shown encouraging results.

Among its beneficiaries, the programme reduced poverty by 4.3 percentage points and the poverty gap by 4.2 percentage points, nearly 10 times more effective than the combined impact of all other social safety-net initiatives.

With more than 85 million individuals already captured in the NSR, the database, now the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa, offers what the bank calls “a ready-made platform” for more accurate and transparent delivery of social assistance.

Ethiopia has been selected to host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), scheduled to take place in 2027, after edging out Nigeria in a closely contested bid.

Richard Muyingi, chair of the African group of negotiators (AGN), confirmed the development to TheCable, noting that Ethiopia’s bid was endorsed during a meeting held last week after the country resubmitted its expression of interest.

“The matter was discussed by the African group in a meeting last week, and Ethiopia was confirmed as the host of COP32,” Muyingi said.

The hosting of COPs rotates among different regions, with Africa due to host the high-level climate summit in 2032.

However, the host country for COP31 is still to be decided between Turkey and Australia.

In March, Nigeria announced its interest in hosting the COP32. The country’s interest picked up pace after a visit by Simon Stiell, executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

In an X post, the federal ministry of environment said, “hosting the UN COP will provide several strategic benefits to Nigeria, including emphasising priority areas in climate action at both continental and national levels”.

During the second Africa climate summit in Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced his country’s interest in hosting COP32.

Abiy said Ethiopia has “the capacity, facilities, location and connectivity to host the much-anticipated climate summit”.

Meanwhile, negotiators familiar with the bidding process told TheCable that Nigeria could have stood a stronger chance if it had demonstrated greater commitment, especially since West Africa is yet to host a COP.

They said Nigeria failed to resubmit its interest when the matter was raised during the AGN meeting.

So far, Morocco (North Africa) has hosted the conference twice — in 2001 and 2016 — while Egypt (also in North Africa) hosted COP27 in 2022.

Kenya (East Africa) hosted COP12 in 2006, and South Africa (Southern Africa) hosted COP17 in 2011.

Reacting to the development, Mohamed Adow, director of Power Shift Africa, welcomed Ethiopia’s selection, describing it as “great news” for the continent.

“Africa really is the front line of the climate crisis. It is suffering the worst impacts despite contributing the least, and it’s therefore good to bring the world to see that firsthand,” Adow said.

He noted that Ethiopia is well-positioned to host a successful summit, given its experience in convening major gatherings such as the annual African Union meetings.

“Ethiopia is a good choice; as host nation, it will be motivated to deliver a strong outcome that truly helps those facing the impacts of climate breakdown,” he added.

Adow described the decision as a recognition of Ethiopia’s commitment to building resilience, expanding renewable energy, and advancing homegrown climate solutions.

He cited the country’s green legacy initiative — which has seen billions of trees planted — and its major investments in hydropower, wind, and geothermal energy as examples of its leadership in sustainable development.

“As host of the next COP, Ethiopia now has a vital platform to amplify African voices and priorities, particularly around adaptation finance, renewable energy access, and climate justice,” Adow said.

“It can also spotlight Africa’s innovation and determination to move from vulnerability to strength in the face of global climate disruption.”

The Nigerian military has intensified land and air operations in parts of the North following a threat by United States President Donald Trump to consider deploying American forces to Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians.

The PUNCH reported that Trump, in a recent post on his Truth Social platform, said he had directed the US Department of War to prepare for “possible action” if the alleged persecution continued.

He also warned that the US could suspend all aid to Nigeria if the Tinubu administration failed to act.

He wrote, “If the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now-disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.

“I am hereby instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians.”

Meanwhile, rival terrorist factions have engaged in violent clashes in the northern region.

More than 50 fighters were reportedly killed in a confrontation between Boko Haram (Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunna lid-Da‘wa wa’l-Jihād) and the Islamic State of West Africa Province over territorial control in Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State.

The clash occurred on Sunday evening in Toumbun Gini, an island community, after ISWAP launched an offensive to reclaim the area recently seized by Boko Haram.

A video obtained by our correspondent showed bloodied bodies floating in a canoe, with fighters chanting “Allahu Akbar,” suggesting that Boko Haram repelled the ISWAP attackers.

Local sources said ISWAP deployed about 10 high-powered watercraft to launch the attack, but were ambushed by Boko Haram operatives who had prior intelligence of the operation.

“ISWAP boats landed, but what was meant to be a surprise attack turned into a deadly trap. The first shots were decisive. JAS fighters overpowered them within minutes. ISWAP was routed,” a source said.

Over 50 ISWAP fighters were reportedly killed, and seven of their boats were seized. Three boats escaped with casualties. It remains unclear whether ISWAP will launch a counter-attack.

Efforts to reach the spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Uba Sani, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were unanswered.

The clash happened hours after troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion, Sector 2, Operation Hadin Kai, foiled a Boko Haram ambush on civilians in Dutse Kura, rescuing 86 victims and arresting 29 suspected logistics suppliers.

In a statement on Sunday, Lt. Col. Sani said the terrorists attempted to abduct civilians and seize vehicles along the Buratai–Kamuya Road before troops intervened. The terrorists were pursued to Mangari, where troops discovered 11 makeshift structures used as a camp.

Recovered items included an AK-47 rifle, five magazines with 73 rounds, four PKT ammunition belts, five vehicles, five motorcycles, eight bicycles, and two tricycles. The camp was destroyed.

In a separate operation at Mangada, troops arrested 29 suspected logistics suppliers heading to Chilaria with two pickup vans and a tricycle loaded with about 1,000 litres of petrol, engine oil, gun-truck tyres, medical supplies, and food items. No troop casualties were recorded.

NAF bombs terrorists

In a related development, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on terrorist and bandit hideouts in Kwara, Borno, Katsina, and other northern states.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the strikes destroyed hideouts, logistics hubs, weapons storage locations, and neutralised several terrorists.

He said airstrikes in Borno targeted ISWAP elements in the Northern Tumbuns. Air assets, guided by real-time intelligence, struck locations around Shuwaram and Mallam Fatori, where terrorists were seen mobilising on motorcycles and boats along the Lake Chad Basin.

The statement partly read, “The Nigerian Air Force intensified its counterterrorism and counter-banditry operations nationwide with a series of precision airstrikes that neutralised ISWAP terrorists in Mallam Fatori and Shuwaram, Borno State, and destroyed bandit enclaves in Garin Dandi and Chigogo, Kwara State, as well as Zango Hill in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

“In Borno State, NAF air interdiction missions dealt a heavy blow to ISWAP terrorists entrenched in the Northern Tumbuns. Guided by real-time Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance feeds, air assets conducted precision strikes southeast of Shuwaram before shifting to Mallam Fatori, where ISWAP elements were observed mobilising with motorcycles and boats along the Lake Chad Basin.

“The strikes destroyed insurgent hideouts, logistics hubs, and weapons storage facilities, eliminating several terrorists and crippling their mobility capabilities. Post-strike assessments confirmed multiple neutralisations and a significant degradation of ISWAP’s operational networks in the area.”

Simultaneously, NAF aircraft struck bandit camps in Garin Dandi and Chigogo in Kwara State and also carried out armed reconnaissance across Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kaduna States.

Ejodame added that air assets struck Zango Hill in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, targeting a terrorist kingpin and his fighters.

“In a related operation, air assets under Operation FANSAN YAMMA struck Zango Hill in Kankara LGA, Katsina State, the hideout of a terrorist kingpin and his fighters. Guided by actionable intelligence and ISR surveillance, multiple attack passes were executed, destroying key logistics hubs and neutralising several of the terrorists in one of the most decisive strikes in the region.

“Demonstrating sustained reach and precision, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (Sector 1) conducted an armed reconnaissance mission across the northwest corridor, covering key settlements in Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kaduna States, including Kakihum, Dankolo, Kotonkoro, and Kuyello.

“These locations serve as known routes and hideouts for armed groups along the Birnin Gwari–Funtua axis. During the mission, coordination with Forward Operating Bases at Dankolo and Kotonkoro revealed suspicious movement near Wam Hill, where terrorists on motorcycles were spotted attempting to flee. The aircrew swiftly engaged and neutralised the targets, with no further hostile activity observed,” the statement added.

The spokesman said the operations reflect a sustained counterterrorism effort under the directives of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.

Atalanta have officially parted ways with head coach, Ivan Juric, after just 11 matches of the 2025-26 Serie A season, following a 3-0 home defeat to newly-promoted Sassuolo on Sunday.

Juric, who was appointed over the summer as the successor to long-serving Atalanta manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, leaves the club in 13th place, having recorded only two league wins from 11 matches.

La Dea have struggled in recent weeks, losing their last two league games after a run of six consecutive draws, collecting just six points from their last eight Serie A outings.

“Atalanta BC announces that Ivan Juric has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the first team, along with his closest staff members, Matteo Paro, Miguel Veloso, Pablo Barbero, Stjepan Ostojic, and Michele Orecchio.

“Atalanta thanks Ivan Juric and his staff for their efforts and wishes them all the best for the future,” the club said in a statement on Monday.

PUNCH Online earlier reported that Juric had been informed that his performances in the last two matches, against Marseille in the Champions League and Sassuolo in Serie A, would determine his future at the club.

While Atalanta won against Marseille, Juric made headlines for a heated touchline exchange with Nigerian International, Ademola Lookman.

The 3-0 defeat to Sassuolo ultimately made his position untenable.

Reports suggest that former Monza and Fiorentina coach Raffaele Palladino is the frontrunner to replace Juric as Atalanta’s head coach.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, on Sunday, dismissed the allegation of Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing it as false, dangerous, and politically motivated.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the NSCIA’s Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, accused the Western media and political figures of trumpeting the allegation of Christian genocide as part of an alleged coordinated campaign to destabilise Nigeria.

But the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Wale Oke, insisted that, “There is Christian genocide in Nigeria.”

“There is no other name to call it. No Christian group is attacking Muslims. Patience of the church is being stretched,” Oke said during a visit to the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at the weekend.

The debate comes in the wake of Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the United States President Donald Trump.

In a series of posts on X between October 31 and November 1, Trump had condemned continued killings in Nigeria, declaring America’s readiness to send its military to Nigeria if the Federal Government failed to stop the killings by jihadist groups.

But addressing the press in Abuja on Sunday, the NSCIA maintained that the violence in parts of the country was driven by criminality, poverty, and climate-induced migration, not religious persecution.

“We affirm that in Nigeria, there is no Christian terrorism. There is no Muslim terrorism. There is no religious intolerance in Nigeria.

The Nigerian tragedy is that of poverty, climate change, bad governance over time, and armed criminals who kill indiscriminately while a section of the world seeks to exploit the situation for geopolitical profits,” Oloyede said.

The NSCIA Secretary accused some Nigerian separatist groups, foreign lobbyists, and U.S. politicians of exploiting Nigeria’s insecurity for personal or political gain.

“These groups push fabricated statistics and doctored videos to influence Western governments, particularly the United States, to take punitive actions against Nigeria,” he said.

He further alleged that the renewed U.S. designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” was “a political tool, not a reflection of facts on the ground.”

The NSCIA called on both the Nigerian government and the international community to reject the “false and destabilising narrative,” urging President Trump to “assist Nigeria with intelligence and logistics support rather than smear campaigns.”

However, the PFN President, Oke, during his visit to the Olubadan, insisted that, “There is Christian genocide in Nigeria. There is no other name to call it. No Christian group is attacking Muslims. Patience of the church is being stretched.”

He explained that the killings were being perpetrated by extremist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and splinter cells that invoke Islam during attacks, stressing that they do not represent the wider Muslim community.

Listing the killing of Deborah Samuel, the abduction of Leah Sharibu and the Chibok girls, and attacks in Benue, Taraba, Southern Kaduna, Owo in Ondo State, Niger, and Plateau, he lamented that hundreds of Christians and pastors had been massacred.

Oke expressed appreciation to Trump for raising concerns about the plight of Christians but urged him to avoid military intervention and instead support the Nigerian government.

“Tinubu should ask for the cooperation of Trump, instead of opposing him. The President should root out radical groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP. Work together so that Nigerians can live in peace.

“The government should stand up and not play politics with it. Tinubu and the Federal Government need to cooperate with Trump to deal with this cancer,” he stressed.

According to a statement by Olubadan’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, during the meeting, Oba Ladoja also lamented decades of killings and destruction, saying the Christian community deserved to be placated.

Ladoja said, “Many people have been killed and property worth an inestimable amount of money destroyed. Multitudes of families, particularly women and children, have been displaced. Kidnappings have taken place.

“Successive administrations have spent trillions to fight insecurity. When you look at this scenario over the past 10 years, people are bound to feel aggrieved and resort to self-help.

“Former President Jonathan has tried. Former President Muhammadu Buhari has tried. President Bola Tinubu is trying. But I want to caution that terrorists don’t know the difference between Muslims and Christians.

“They see everybody as prey, while they are the predator. This is why, as the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, a constituent of CAN, we are appealing to you to please help us placate our Christian brethren who are understandably aggrieved that these times will pass.”

The monarch said in the South-West, where he is more familiar with community dynamics, people of different religious persuasions coexist harmoniously, wondering why such unity remains elusive in other parts of the country.

However, an All Progressives Congress chieftain in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, said on Sunday that Nigeria must not accept the deployment of foreign troops to combat terrorism.

In a statement in Osogbo, Oyintiloye warned political and religious leaders against exploiting Trump’s threat as a tool to attack President Tinubu.

Rather than politicising the matter, he urged stakeholders to rally behind the President to win the war against terrorism and violent crime.

“At this critical period, Nigerians, irrespective of political or religious affiliations, should come together to support the President and join efforts to overcome the lingering security challenges facing the country. This is not a time to play opposition politics,” he said.

He continued, “We must all come to the realisation that all our hopes, aspirations and dreams to get public office rest squarely on the continued existence of Nigeria.

“Our current set of leaders will be there for a period and move on. But Nigerians must not walk into a trap that will make the country cease to exist. With the cooperation of all stakeholders, we have the capacity to end terrorism.

“Getting foreign support in terms of equipment will be good, but not the deployment of soldiers. It may complicate the situation and lead to greater problems. At this point, political, religious and community leaders must unite. What Tinubu needs at this time is the support of all Nigerians.”

He added that Trump’s threat should concern every Nigerian, stressing that killings did not begin with the Tinubu administration but had built up over many years.

He noted that no particular religion had been exclusively targeted, arguing that Muslims, Christians, and adherents of other faiths had all suffered the effects of terrorism.

While acknowledging U.S. concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, he called for intelligence sharing and the supply of military equipment to support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.

He cautioned opposition figures to be mindful of their remarks, saying the consequences would affect the entire country. He also urged newly appointed service chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them and work hard to defeat terrorists.

The debate over whether Nigeria should allow foreign troops to intervene has dominated public discourse, with opinions divided.

The Tinubu administration has responded by consulting stakeholders to prevent open confrontation with the U.S.

On November 7, The PUNCH reported that Tinubu said his government was engaging diplomatically on the matter.

President Bola Tinubu on Friday evening received Julius Maada Bio, president of Sierra Leone, at the presidential villa in Abuja.

While the details of their discussions were not made public, the meeting is believed to have centred on regional peace, security, and economic integration within West Africa.

In June, Bio succeeded Tinubu as chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

On his verified X account, Bio said he was in Abuja to deliver a speech at Baze University’s 12th convocation and to engage with African business leaders.

“I had a productive meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Bio wrote on X.

“As chairperson of ECOWAS, we engaged in discussions concerning regional security and the important role of ECOWAS in fostering peace and supporting economic development within our regional community.”

Both leaders are expected to deepen cooperation on democracy promotion, counter-terrorism, and sustainable development across ECOWAS member states.

President Bola Tinubu on Friday met with the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Abubakar III, at the State House, Abuja.

The closed-door meeting came just a few days after the President met Bishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, the Archbishop of Abuja.

The Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, who posted the videos of Tinubu’s meetings with both leaders on X, said the engagement was part of the ongoing consultations with religious and traditional leaders to promote dialogue and strengthen social trust across the country.

Other Presidency sources who spoke with the Nation described the meetings as part of the President’s consultations with key moral and cultural leaders on ways to consolidate peace, enhance national integration, and tackle emerging social challenges.

According to officials, the meetings align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusivity and interfaith cooperation as core pillars for sustaining national stability and cohesion.

The meetings come in the wake of escalating global tensions over religious freedom, particularly following US President Donald Trump’s October 31, 2025, redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

The US had alleged severe religious violations in Nigeria, including “over 7,000 Christian deaths in the first seven months of 2025 amid attacks by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants.”

But the Federal Government has denied the allegation, insisting Nigeria’s constitution safeguards interfaith harmony and rejecting claims of Christian genocide as “false narratives.”

Ademola Lookman was left furious after being substituted in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

The Atalanta forward had to be held back during a heated altercation with manager Ivan Juric.

European Football Expert Andy Brassell details the fall out from Ademola Lookman's confrontation with Ivan Juric during Atalanta's UCL win
was replaced by Yunus Musah in the 75th minute of their clash with Marseille.

With the match still goalless, Juric withdrew the Nigerian international.

However, Lookman was visibly annoyed by the decision as he trudged off the pitch before exchanging words with his manager.

Juric could then be seen grabbing the player as tempers flared on the touchline.

Several members of the Atalanta coaching staff leaped from the dugout to separate the pair, with a furious Lookman held back.

Should Juric apologise?
Speaking on the incident, European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT: “I think we all know that it's something that's probably not that big a deal and they'll manage to put a lid on it.

“But every coach has got to be aware, and Juric is clearly in the wrong here, because every coach has got to be aware, there are 36 cameras in the stadium nowadays.

“Minutes after it's happened, it's on the internet, it's on Twitter, it's on Instagram, it's everywhere.

“So he's going to have to come out and apologise to Lookman, especially as Lookman has been in a place where he's been a little bit fragile.

“He expected to get a big move into this season, but it didn't happen and so they've gradually been working him back into the team.

The forward had to be held back after exchanging words with the Atalanta bossCredit: TNT Sports

“He wasn't treated particularly well by Gasparini, who was Juric's predecessor at Atalanta.

“I feel sorry for Lookman because he's been one of the best players in Europe over the last couple of years, reigning African Footballer of the Year."

The former Southampton manager defended his changes following the final whistle.

Speaking during his post-match press conference, Juric told reporters: "That’s our sixth game in 17 days. It’s not easy for us to retain the rhythm when we have to change players.

"Yunus Musah was fantastic when he came on, and helped us change the course of the game.

"I’m really happy with the way we managed to get the victory in the end."

As for the incident with Lookman, he added: "These are normal episodes in modern football, they happen every week everywhere.

"Players never willingly accept being taken off—it happens to [Kevin] De Bruyne in Naples, it happens everywhere.

"On the pitch, there is adrenaline, there is nervousness, but then everything ends in the locker room.

"The fundamental thing is to remember that the only thing that counts is Atalanta, the group, the team, and the fans.

"We all must row in the same direction and respect this jersey. Everything is clarified, and we go forward."

Atalanta went on to grab a last minute winner through Lazar Samardzic to move up to 16th in the league phase table.

The victory came after Charles De Ketelaere had missed a first half penalty for the visiting Serie A side.

Juric has been in charge since the summer, having been sacked by Southampton in April.

The Croatian was axed by the Saints after winning just one of his 14 Premier League matches at the helm.

Meanwhile, Lookman has yet to address the incident with Juric.

It comes just months after he was publicly criticised by former Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasparini.

The Italian slammed his own player for missing a penalty during their Champions League exit to Club Brugge in February.

Ademola Lookman and Ivan Juric in Atalanta confrontation

His comments prompted Lookman to issue a response on social media, labelling Gasparini's remarks 'disrespectful'.

The 28-year-old later saw a move to Inter Milan blocked in the summer.

Lookman, who joined Atalanta in 2022, has scored once in nine appearances so far this season.

'I wasn't waiting' - James McClean reveals why he punched Cardiff fan in car park row
He previously scored a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League to fire his side to their first major trophy for 61 years.

It also saw him named African Footballer of the Year following his heroics against Bayer Leverkusen.

FIFA has appointed a team of South African match officials for the forthcoming Super Eagles’ World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.

Nigeria will take on Gabon on November 13 in one of the two semi-finals of the African World Cup playoffs in Morocco.

The winner of the match will face either Congo DR or Cameroon in the final to clinch the sole slot to represent Africa at the intercontinental playoff.

South Africa’s Tom Abongile has been named the centre referee for Nigeria’s semi-final match.

Zakhele Siwela, another South African, will be one of the assistant referees while Akhona Makalima, his compatriot, will be incharge of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the match.

Hughes Ndjovi of the Benin Republic will be the referee assessor for the match.

The news sparked outrage among Nigerians on social media because Nigeria, South Africa and the Benin Republic were all in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria defeated Benin 4-0 on the final day to secure a playoff spot as one of the four best runners-up in the groups.

South Africa finished top of Group C and secured an automatic World Cup ticket. The Bafana Bafana’s qualification chances had earlier suffered a setback when FIFA overturned the team’s win over Lesotho for fielding an ineligible player.

Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s minister of sports, blamed Nigeria for the FIFA sanction and publicly said he does not want the Eagles to qualify for the World Cup.

Against this backdrop, Nigerians pushed back against the selection of South African referees for the country’s playoff clash.

Suleiman Adebayo, a photo-journalist and an X user popularly known as Pooja, called for the review of the match official list “fast”.

“In fairness and sentiments, South African officials shouldn’t be appointed by CAF to officiate Nigeria vs. Gabon in this WC playoffs in Morocco,” he wrote.

“A sitting minister in South Africa on tape said he doesn’t want Nigeria to qualify for the WC & CAF had to appoint South Africans as the centre ref, AR & VR in a game involving Nigeria? Even the Ref Assessor is from the Benin Republic. CAF should rethink this fast.”

Kappo Ebenezer Sewanu, another X user, called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to “act” on the situation.

“The sad thing is NFF will not act on this info,” he tweeted.

“Just like they didn’t act when about three counties played their home matches in South Africa putting Nigeria at a demerit whilst SA enjoyed home support throughout the WC campaign. They will pay attention to little details like this.”

The Federal Government on Wednesday held a meeting with members of the diplomatic corps in Abuja, where it addressed the allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria and also rejected the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a country of particular concern, insisting that the country didn’t target any group on the basis of faith.

Speaking at the diplomatic briefing in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, stated that claims of religious persecution misrepresented the country’s legal and social framework.

Ahmed said Nigeria’s national laws were religion-neutral and designed to protect all communities equally. He emphasised that there was no offence of blasphemy in the national legal framework, adding that Shari’a laws applicable in some northern states applied only to Muslims and operated under the supervision of the secular judicial system.

“Christian and Muslim institutions continue to operate freely, promoting peaceful coexistence,” he said.

Also, addressing journalists in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, faulted the US designation of Nigeria, describing it as a product of “misrepresentation and misinformation.”

According to Idris, terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes in the country are not religiously motivated.

“Criminal activities and terrorism do not target any particular religious group. This is not about religion, it is about crime,” he maintained.

The minister stated that since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, security agencies had neutralised more than 13,500 terrorists, arrested over 17,000 suspects, and rescued more than 9,850 abducted persons, including women and children.

He said, “Since May 2023, when he (Tinubu) took office, Nigeria’s security agencies have neutralised more than 13,500 terrorists through sustained operations, and they have arrested over 17,000 suspects who are now undergoing interrogation and prosecution for various offences.

“Also, more than 9,850 people abducted by these terrorists, including women and children, have been rescued and reintegrated with their families. It is important to note that the menace of terrorism in Nigeria does not exclusively target any religious or ethnic group. “

He added that the President was engaging diplomatic channels to address the concerns raised by Washington and to correct what he described as a “misjudgment of Nigeria’s reality.”

“The Government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the international community, including the United States and other partners, to achieve the shared goal of completely eliminating terrorism and violent extremism on Nigerian soil. The President has pledged to ensure that all those making the country unsafe are permanently removed.

He added, “Regarding the current misrepresentation of Nigeria’s security situation by the United States, President Tinubu is taking the lead in addressing all areas of misunderstanding through diplomatic and political channels.

“While we welcome collaboration, assistance, and partnership from all foreign allies, including the United States, Nigeria is not denying that we face serious security challenges. We invite all our partners and friends to join us in understanding our situation and supporting our efforts to eliminate this menace.”

Keyamo writes Trump

In a related development, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, wrote to US President Donald Trump to counter claims of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria.

In a letter posted on his verified X handle on Tuesday, Keyamo said he felt compelled to respond “as a Christian and as a public official.” He argued that Nigeria was being wrongly portrayed as a country where Christians were under systematic attack, adding that even President Tinubu’s immediate family members are Christians.

According to Keyamo, the narrative of Christian genocide is exaggerated and misleading, and should not form the basis of foreign policy decisions.

The minister, recalling his background, noted that he had spent much of his professional life advocating for the rights of the downtrodden, a commitment, he said, earned him the Global Human Rights Award in Washington in 2017 from the United States Global Leadership Council, chaired at the time by Dr. Reuben Egolf.

Keyamo intimated Trump of Tinubu’s record of religious tolerance, pointing out that despite being a Muslim himself, the President’s wife, Oluremi Tinubu, is a pastor in one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal churches, and his children practising Christians.

He said, “President Tinubu is a known moderate, who, during his time as Governor of Lagos State, regularly invited Christian pastors for prayers and worship sessions at the Government House. He would be the last person to either adopt the killing of Christians as a state policy or condone such acts.”

Olurode warns FG

Meanwhile, a former National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Lai Olurode, has urged the Federal Government to tread cautiously in its engagement with the US.

In a statement on Wednesday, Olurode advised that diplomacy, rather than emotional or defensive patriotism, should guide Nigeria’s response to the US designation and Trump’s recent comments.

Warning that it may be “suicidal to walk into America’s death trap,” Olurode, a former Professor of Sociology at the University of Lagos, said Trump could “even be angry with the truth.”

Suggesting specifically how the FG should respond to the listing of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, Olurode added, “In his response to Mr Trump’s provocative moves, President Tinubu’s government should display decorum and respect for the most powerful country in a unipolar world. Nigeria shouldn’t turn itself into a theatre of war, which it is luring itself into.

“Simultaneously, I urge Nigeria’s elites to sink their differences and mobilise national sentiments behind the government of Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu. If Nigeria goes under, there will be no country for the pursuits of our diverse aspirations.

“There seems to be no country that can stop America. We should be diplomatic rather than being emotional or displaying morbid patriotism. President Trump can be angry with even the truth. So far, our government has acted with caution and with the consciousness that America can kill Nigeria’s fly with a sledgehammer. It is suicidal to walk into America’s death trap.”

Enang advises govt

Former presidential aide, Senator Ita Enang, on Wednesday cautioned the FG against taking hasty or ill-considered actions following the United States threat.

The development generated intense debate across Nigeria, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump was quoted as threatening tougher measures if Washington’s concerns are ignored.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Enang said the matter carried serious foreign policy implications and should not be handled through spontaneous or uncoordinated reactions by government officials.

“This is a diplomatic issue that must be treated with utmost caution,” he warned. “Not every government official should make statements capable of inflaming the situation or misrepresenting Nigeria’s position.”

Enang, a former Special Adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters (Senate), advised that the Presidency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Intelligence Agency, and the leadership of the National Assembly should jointly craft a unified national response.

He also proposed that both chambers of the National Assembly convene a joint sitting to adopt a coordinated resolution to ensure, as he put it, that Nigeria speaks “with one national voice.”

Turning to domestic concerns, Enang lamented the financial pressure on the Federal Government, describing it as “fiscally overstretched” while states and local governments enjoy increased allocations from the Federation Account.

“The truth is that the Federal Government is broke,” he said. “It cannot meet its constitutional obligations because its share of national revenue is too small relative to its responsibilities.

“State governments are celebrating higher allocations, but the Federal Government that generates and disburses these funds is borrowing just to feed its children.”

The former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and Business described the current revenue allocation formula as “obsolete,” arguing that it no longer reflects the scale of federal responsibilities.

“Today, the Federal Government funds the army, police, DSS, civil defence, road safety, and several other agencies, yet it receives just about half of the national revenue. It makes neither fiscal nor moral sense,” he said.

Nigerian Air Force

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, on Wednesday, summoned all Air Component Commanders from ongoing operations nationwide, directing them to intensify the tempo of precision air strikes.

Aneke specifically directed the commanders to fly smarter and strike harder against terrorists, insurgents, and armed criminal gangs.

A statement on Wednesday by the Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said top operational commanders from every theatre of conflict — from the forests of Zamfara to the riverine enclaves of the Niger Delta and the rugged terrain of the North-East were present.

Ejodame said the air chief noted that the days ahead demanded agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare.

“We must fly smarter and strike harder, not only to neutralise threats but to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians. Every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism,” he was quoted as saying.

Aneke noted that the evolving nature of threats across theatres required synchronisation of air, land, and maritime operations to achieve joint mission success.

“Our operations must be intelligence-led, coordinated, and focused. We will continue to work closely with the sister services and other security agencies to ensure a united front in the fight against terrorism and criminality,” he said.

The senate has approved the sexual harassment of students (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill, 2025, which prescribes up to 14 years’ imprisonment for educators convicted of sexually harassing students in tertiary institutions.

Lola Ashiru, the deputy senate leader, who stood in for Opeyemi Bamidele, senate leader, presented the bill, earlier passed by the house of representatives, for concurrence on Wednesday.

Ashiru said the legislation seeks to protect students from sexual misconduct and abuse within academic environments while providing a clear legal framework for enforcement and punishment.

He said the bill also aims to uphold ethical standards in tertiary institutions and preserve the student-educator relationship built on authority, trust, and respect for human dignity.

According to the law, “any person who commits any of the offences or acts specified in clause 4 (1), (2) and (3) of this bill is guilty of an offence of felony and shall, on conviction, be sentenced to an imprisonment term of up to 14 years but not less than 5 years, without an option of a fine.”

It states that offenders under clauses 4 (4), (5) and (6) are liable to imprisonment of two to five years without an option of a fine.

The bill also provides that a student who alleges harassment may pursue civil action for breach of fiduciary duty, with the standard of proof aligned with civil proceedings.

The legislation outlines offences, including demanding sexual favours, making unwanted sexual advances, inducing others to commit harassment, and inappropriate physical contact.

It provides that marriage between the educator and the student is the only defence and that consent is not acceptable where a power imbalance exists.

The bill states that complaints may be filed by the student, a relative, guardian, or any concerned party, with reports submitted to the police, the attorney-general, and the institution’s independent sexual harassment prohibition committee.

During the debate, some lawmakers proposed that the scope of the bill be expanded beyond academic institutions.

Adams Oshiomhole, senator representing Edo north, said the provisions should apply to workplaces and wider social environments.

“We can use one stone to kill all the mad birds,” Oshiomhole said.

“There is no need to limit sexual harassment to students. It should include workplaces and any other location, because the evil is the same. We should craft the law in such a way that it has a universal application.”

Titus Zam, a senator representing Benue north-west, described the bill as too restrictive, arguing that it should not be confined to universities.

Anthony Ani, senator representing Ebonyi south, said harassment occurs in every sphere of society. “It is everywhere,” he said.

“So, we have to come up with a law that is very encompassing, that takes care of sexual harassment in its entirety. This sexual harassment goes both ways.”

Barau Jibrin, deputy senate president, who presided over the plenary, noted that the bill had already been passed at the lower chamber and was only before the senate for concurrence.

Jibrin also said existing legislation already addresses workplace harassment.

The bill was adopted and passed for third reading.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Belém, Brazil, to represent President Bola Tinubu at the leaders’ summit ahead of the 30th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30).

The high-level meeting, convened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in collaboration with global partners, will take place from November 6 to 7 in Belém, the capital of Pará state, located in the Brazilian Amazon.

The main COP30 negotiations, scheduled to be held from November 10 to 11, will bring together heads of state, development partners, and business executives to discuss practical pathways for accelerating global climate action.

This year’s conference, themed ‘Climate action and implementation’, will focus on adaptation, forests, biodiversity, and climate justice

In a statement on Tuesday by Stanley Nkwocha, senior special assistant to the president on media and communications (office of the vice-president), said Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the plenary session.

He will also outline the country’s climate priorities and ongoing efforts to meet its commitments under international climate agreements.

After his engagements in Belém, the vice-president will travel to Brasília for a reciprocal visit to his Brazilian counterpart, Geraldo Alckmin, who paid a three-day working visit to Nigeria earlier in June.

President Tinubu had earlier said Nigeria’s focus ahead of COP30 is to harness climate financing opportunities for climate-resilient projects and related interventions that align with the country’s development goals.

This year’s COP30 taking place in the Amazon — one of the world’s most critical carbon sinks — underscores the urgency of protecting tropical forests and preserving biodiversity as part of the global response to climate change.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr John Nwabueze as the Tax Ombudsman.

The appointment is said to be in line with the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025,

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, saying it was part of Tinubu’s ongoing tax and revenue reforms.

“The appointment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to implementing far-reaching and sustainable reforms in the tax and revenue administration framework,” the statement read.

Nwabueze, from Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, has held several key positions in the public and private sectors.

He previously served as Managing Partner of a tax advisory firm, Technical Adviser to the Joint Senate Committees on the Federal Capital Territory and Finance, and Technical Adviser to the Chief Economic Adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Onanuga said Nwabueze “brings extensive professional and public service experience to the new job.”

The new Tax Ombudsman holds a Doctor of Business Administration in Finance from Walden University, Minneapolis; a Master’s degree in Accounting from Strayer University, Washington D.C.; and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Mathematics from the University of Jos.

Tinubu congratulated Nwabueze on the appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver.

“President Tinubu congratulates Nwabueze on this appointment and expresses confidence in his capacity to discharge the responsibilities of his office with integrity, diligence, and utmost professionalism,” Onanuga said.

According to him, the Office of the Tax Ombudsman was established “to strengthen transparency and accountability within the tax system, enhance confidence in tax administration, and provide a structured mechanism for the fair and impartial resolution of disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities.

“The Office shall be responsible for receiving, reviewing, and resolving complaints relating to taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, excise matters, and other related issues, in accordance with extant laws and regulations.”

Before now, tax-related complaints were largely managed by agencies such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service and state revenue boards.

The statement added that the move was aimed at safeguarding the rights of taxpayers.

“The Tax Ombudsman is further mandated to ensure that disputes are managed in an efficient, impartial, and non-adversarial manner, thereby safeguarding the rights of taxpayers against the arbitrary or abusive exercise of authority by tax officials,” it added.

The creation of the Office of the Tax Ombudsman marks a continuation of Tinubu’s fiscal and tax reform agenda, which has been driven by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee chaired by Taiwo Oyedele.

The committee, inaugurated in August 2023, was mandated to harmonise Nigeria’s tax system, reduce multiple taxation, improve revenue generation, and raise the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio. It also aims to simplify tax compliance and strengthen public confidence in revenue administration.

The establishment of a Tax Ombudsman through the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025, is part of the Federal Government’s plan to improve accountability and fairness in tax administration.

A 16-year-old student of Chrisland Schools, Naomi Olayinka, has emerged as the top in the World in English as a Second Language at the 2024 Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education examinations.

Olayinka’s recognition by the Cambridge Assessment International Education follows her outstanding performance in the June 2024 IGCSE examinations.

Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH on Monday, the visibly elated teenager described the news as surreal, saying her success was a product of faith, discipline, and the support of her teachers and parents.

“Honestly, I was completely speechless at first. It didn’t even sink in right away. When I finally realised what it meant, I just felt so grateful to God, to my teachers, my parents, and everyone who supported me. It was such a surreal moment, and all I could think about was how the hard work had really paid off,” she said.

Naomi follows in the footsteps of Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo, a 2023 Chrisland High School, VGC alumna, who achieved the same Top in the World recognition in English.

“It feels amazing to be part of such a proud legacy. Chrisland has always inspired us to aim for excellence, and knowing that others before me achieved this gave me confidence that it was possible too. I feel honoured to continue that tradition, and I hope my success encourages others as well,” Naomi said

She added that her love for English stemmed from its power to connect people and convey ideas.

“I have always loved how English allows people to express their thoughts and emotions so beautifully. I believe it is a way of thinking and connecting with people,” she said.

While preparing for the examination, Naomi said she maintained a consistent study routine that combined structured practice with leisure reading.

“I set aside time every day to read, write essays, and review past questions. I also made sure to read novels, articles, and newspapers to expand my vocabulary and understanding,” she explained.

The journey, however, was not without challenges.

“There were times I felt overwhelmed balancing all my subjects and responsibilities. Sometimes I doubted myself, too. But I learned to take things one step at a time and reminded myself to trust the process. My parents and teachers encouraged me constantly, and prayer gave me strength when I felt tired or unsure,” she said.

As the Assembly Prefect, she said she learned valuable lessons in leadership and time management that supported her academic excellence.

Reacting to the development, the Director of Schools, Chrisland Schools Limited, Mrs Ayoola Akinyeye, said Naomi’s success reflected the school’s long-standing commitment to nurturing globally competitive learners.

“At Chrisland, excellence is not an exception—it’s our default. Every year, we present hundreds of students for national and international examinations, and a remarkable number consistently achieve distinctions and awards that place them among the best in the world,” she said.

“While ‘Top in the World’ has room for only one, our record of multiple outstanding results each year shows that sustained excellence across large numbers is our true distinction.”

Also speaking, the Executive Head of Schools (Communications) and Regional Head of Abuja and VGC Schools, Dr. Olajide Onigbogi, said the school’s record of global recognition is the result of an intentional culture that integrates discipline, professionalism, and love for learning.

“Excellence at Chrisland isn’t accidental but intentional. It’s the product of discipline, professionalism, and love for learning, woven into the very fabric of our system,” he said.

A major milestone has been recorded in Ondo State’s industrialisation drive as Backbone Infrastructure Ltd has secured funding commitments exceeding $50bn for the development of a 500,000 barrels-per-day refinery and the Sunshine Free Trade Zone in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.

The funding was facilitated through a joint venture agreement between BINL and NEFEX Holdings Limited of Canada, marking one of the largest single private sector investment packages targeted at Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas industry.

In a statement issued by the company on Monday, the investment follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between BINL and the Ondo State Government, through the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency, in July.

The company said the project is expected to transform Ondo State into a key refining and export hub in the Niger Delta corridor.

The statement read, “Following the successful execution of the Memorandum of Understanding between Backbone Infrastructure Ltd and the Ondo State Government, through the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency, for the construction of a 500,000 barrels-per-day refinery and the development of a 1,471-hectare Sunshine Free Trade Zone in the Ilaje area of Ondo State in July, Backbone has secured project funding exceeding $50bnfor both projects through a joint venture agreement with its partner, NEFEX Holdings Limited of Canada.”

The statement added that a team from BINL, led by its Chairman and former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani, is scheduled to visit Akure today for meetings with state government officials and a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The visit will also include site inspections, stakeholder engagements, and consultations with host communities, including a royal audience with the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Obateru Akinrutan.

According to BINL’s Vice President for Corporate Services, Wale Adekola, the partnership with NEFEX Petroline, an engineering, construction, and energy infrastructure firm with operations across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, will fast-track the technical and financial groundwork needed to commence construction.

Their speciality also includes port and infrastructure development, petrochemical trading and supply, investment, and project management.

“With operations across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and beyond, NEFEX Petroline combines the advantages of a global network with deep local understanding. The firm maintains partnerships with leading global financial institutions to secure multi-currency credit lines and liquidity support for large-scale operations,” Adekola said.

‘’Our partnership with NEFEX opens the next chapter for the commencement of BINL Refinery development, ‘’ the BINL executive added.

He added that the BINL-NEFEX partnership represents “the next chapter” in the company’s refinery development efforts, with plans to also collaborate with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to ensure seamless integration into Nigeria’s oil value chain.

The refinery, upon completion, is expected to meet local demand for petroleum products, provide feedstock to industries, and export refined products to international markets. It will also include storage facilities, loading bays, terminals, and a network of internal roads, according to the project brief.

Similarly, the 1,471-hectare Sunshine Free Trade Zone will host industrial clusters, logistics facilities, and residential zones, positioning Ondo State as an emerging industrial hub in Southwest Nigeria.

The $50bn project could significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported refined fuel, conserve foreign exchange, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

It also aligns with the Federal Government’s push to attract private capital into critical infrastructure, especially as the country seeks to replicate the Dangote Refinery model and expand its refining capacity.

BINL, which operates offices in Abuja, London, and Zug, Switzerland, said its corporate social responsibility framework will focus on education, skills development, and infrastructure projects in host communities.

Adekola commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his “visionary leadership” and commitment to attracting credible investors. “We commend the governor for opening the state to genuine partnerships and creating the right environment for both local and international investors to thrive,” he said.

The refinery and free zone project, expected to span several phases, could redefine the economic landscape of Ondo State, making it a key energy and industrial hub in Nigeria’s South-West region.

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has announced that applications for the student loan scheme have surpassed one million, marking one of the largest uptakes for a government-backed social intervention since the beginning of the Tinubu administration.

In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Strategic Communications, Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, said the milestone was achieved less than a year after the programme was launched on May 24, 2024.

He described it as evidence that the scheme is gaining strong national traction and public trust.

According to the agency, over N116bn has so far been disbursed to students across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria, covering both institutional charges and upkeep allowances.

The Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the milestone reflects the success of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda in expanding access to higher education.

“Crossing the one-million mark represents more than data; it symbolises renewed hope for a generation of Nigerians determined to rise above financial barriers to education,” Sawyerr said. “It is a testament to visionary leadership, sound policy design, and the collective effort of all stakeholders driving this transformative agenda.”

NELFUND reiterated its commitment to continuous improvement in service delivery, ensuring that “every qualified Nigerian student, regardless of background or location, can access education funding with transparency, efficiency, and dignity.”

The agency emphasised that the student loan programme is non-discriminatory, benefiting Nigerians across religious and ethnic backgrounds, and helping to promote unity through equal learning opportunities.

“NELFUND remains focused on ensuring that no Nigerian is denied the opportunity to learn, grow, or contribute to national progress because of financial limitations,” the statement added.

Mohammed Ma’aji, a colonel regarded by investigators as the coordinator of the alleged plot to topple Nigeria’s democracy, was a security adviser to Timi Sylva in the 2015 Bayelsa state gubernatorial election, TheCable understands.

Sylva’s residences in Abuja were recently searched by investigators and his whereabouts remain unknown.

Julius Bokoru, his special assistant on media and public affairs, has denied reports linking the former minister of state for petroleum resources to the botched coup.

In a statement, Bokoru described Sylva as “an unrepentant and thoroughbred democrat” who has consistently supported President Bola Tinubu.

Ma’aji, who is said to be “very close” to Sylva, coordinated security for the former governor in the December 5, 2015 election.

Sylva, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), polled 86,852 votes, losing to Seriake Dickson, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 134,998 votes.

He previously led Bayelsa state as a PDP governor between 2007 and 2012, with his first election cancelled in 2008 by a tribunal.

He won a fresh election and did one term before he was denied a second term ticket by the party, with Dickson preferred to him.


‘MA’AJI KEEPING MUM’

It is still unclear to investigators if Ma’aji was the mastermind of the foiled coup, but he is believed to have played a central role.

His major role, it was alleged, was to recruit junior officers.

But he is also accused of providing the funds and logistics, fuelling speculation that he might have been bankrolled by a politician or politicians with significant war chest.

Ma’aji served in the oil-rich Niger Delta region for years.

TheCable understands that he has refused to co-operate with investigators so far, preferring to keep mum on all the allegations.

Officers junior to him have made “significant statements” to the special investigative panel set up by the military authorities.

Forensics have been conducted on Ma’aji and his wife, with their Abuja house searched by the investigators.

A throve of information has reportedly been unearthed on the couple’s accounts and a number of landed property, military sources told TheCable.

WHO IS MOHAMMED MA’AJI?

Not much is known about the army officer from Niger state.

Ma’aji, born in 1976 to Nupe parents, was a member of regular course 47 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

TheCable understands that he was commissioned in 2000 as a second lieutenant, rising through the ranks to become a colonel in 2017 after attending the Policy, Strategy and Leadership Course (PSLC) at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau state.

Ma’aji served as commanding officer (CO) of the 19 Battalion in Okitipupa, Ondo state, before was posted to Koko, headquarters of Warri North LGA, Delta state, in 2017.

In January 2021, he became the CO of Delta Safe following a transfer from the Depot, Nigerian Army, in Zaria.

Meanwhile, a former US Mayor, Mike Arnold, publicly challenged the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, accusing him of failing to use his influence to halt jihadist violence in northern Nigeria.

In an open letter circulated on X, Arnold questioned the Sultan’s past role as Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in Pakistan, drawing a link between his service years and the later spread of jihadist tactics in northern Nigeria.

The Sultan had served as Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to Pakistan from 2003 until his ascension to the throne in 2006. During this time, he was also accredited to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan.

In his post, Arnold queried, “How do you explain that the tactics of global jihadist groups, previously unseen in Nigeria, began in your caliphate after your return from Pakistan? Where are the fatwas against these killings? What have you done to protect your citizens and subjects?”

He further alleged that over $9bn worth of minerals were looted yearly from territories under the Sokoto Caliphate’s influence, warning that the Sultan could face international criminal scrutiny if he failed to address the allegations.

When contacted, the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, reacting through its secretary, Alhaji Saidu Maccido, said, “The Sultan will not bring himself down to respond to such allegations again. The Federal Government has responded to the allegations, and I even recall that the Nigerian Senate also passed a resolution on it. Responding again will only make them feel important.

“The Sultanate Council remains focused on promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and truth. We will not be distracted by baseless accusations.”

Maccido reaffirmed the Sultanate Council’s commitment to peace, unity, and national stability, urging Nigerians to ignore divisive and inflammatory narratives.