The Nation Newspaper

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  • Nigeria will triumph over challenges – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu

    Nigeria will triumph over challenges – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu

    …as NTA, FRCN, VON hold service of nine lessons in Abuja

    First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Sunday expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.

    Speaking at the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols 2025 in Abuja, themed “Jesus Our Strength,” Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to approach the coming new year with confidence rather than fear.

    The event, held at the National Christian Centre, was jointly organized by the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), and Voice of Nigeria (VON).

    Describing this year’s theme as timely and prophetic, the First Lady said it underscores a powerful declaration that Jesus remains the strength of Nigeria.

    The wife of the president said, “Your consistency strengthens Nigeria’s faith, culture, creativity, and spiritual humility. May this Christmas season of 2025 usher us into a year of renewed strength in 2026. May our confidence in God’s plan for Nigeria be revived. God is in the storm with us, and He has given us the power of Christ to overcome every individual and collective challenge. The victory of our faith is the victory of our nation.

    “May our homes be filled with joy, our communities with peace, and our hands with strength that only Jesus gives. As the theme declares — Jesus, our Strength — may we never forget that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Let us not enter the coming year with fear, but with confident assurance that God crowns the year with goodness and leads us in glory. Nigeria may be tested, but Nigeria will triumph.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “Tonight, we gather not merely to sing songs, though praise is central to our worship, but to reflect deeply on the message behind the melodies, the drumbeats, the dances, the cultural rhythms, and the heavenly-sounding carols that connect us to the nativity.

    “We have heard songs from across Nigeria: refreshing, reviving, and truly representative of both the spirit of Christmas and the essence of Abuja as a symbol of Nigerian unity. Nigeria was created by God, and Nigerians were created to carry a generational legacy of His will through seasons such as this.

    “We are here to declare renewed hope — because even when a tree is cut down, at the scent of water, it will bud again. As Reverend William Okoye reminded us, Nigeria will rise again. Truly, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. When we see the Red Sea before us, we must lift our eyes to Jesus, who walks upon the waters and brings us through. We must embrace the fear of God, and cast away the fear of circumstances. This season reminds us of a holy night, but more importantly, of a holy legacy.

    Senator Tinubu was represented by Mandate Secretary, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi when further, “Scripture declares in Psalm 65:11–13 that God crowns the year with goodness; the pastures overflow, and the valleys shout for joy. Nigeria, we will shout for joy. We will sing. And our fields will flourish again. These words are not mere echoes — they are prophetic declarations aligned with the heartbeat of Christmas.

    “God crowns the year not by human hands, but by divine covering. We have listened tonight to powerful presentations: the choir, the children on saxophone, the instrumentalists, and the custodians of our cultural and spiritual heritage. They stand on our shoulders, and we must ensure those shoulders are firm. Like Israel, Nigeria has journeyed through seasons — challenges, transitions, humbling moments. Yet here we stand, global yet grounded, and embracing divine help once again. A new Nigeria is like a new Jerusalem that will not pass away.

    “Nigeria’s values will rise again. Our fields will flourish again. Our unity will strengthen again. The question remains: Do we have room in our hearts for the Savior? The birth of Jesus remains the world’s greatest announcement: That light is stronger than darkness.

    “That peace overcomes fear. And that God is with us — Emmanuel. On behalf of Her Excellency, I celebrate the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, the Nigerian Television Authority, and Voice of Nigeria for uniting their voices in worship with the body of Christ across denominations, raising one national chorus of faith.

    “On behalf of Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu — a mother, an intercessor, a pastor, a woman of grace and strategic intentionality — I declare grace over this nation, over your homes, and over every heart listening. May the amazing grace of Christ guide Nigeria into His purpose, now and always.”

    The Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace, also calls for peace and unity among Nigerians no matter the religion.

    He said, “We should all embrace this tradition of unity. Our founding fathers built a country where diversity is respected. We all have a responsibility, whether as private citizens or public officials, to deepen our understanding and respect for different religions and beliefs. This period is one of national healing. We must support the vision of President Bola Tinubu for Nigeria to take its rightful place—not just in Africa, but within the global community.

    “This event, from the beginning, has always promoted national unity. With the support of the President and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Voice of Nigeria remains committed to the founding values of leading discussions and forging positive narratives about Nigeria, Nigerians, Africa, and Africans.

    “Regarding Nigerians celebrating Christmas, I encourage Christians to embrace the teachings of Jesus—known as Nabi Isa in Islam. Muslims respect him, saying “Ali Salam” when he is mentioned. This reflects the mutual respect embedded in our diverse religions. We must understand and respect these differences rather than focusing on divisions.

    “Individual actions should not define who we are as Nigerians. We must remain focused on national development. Public media institutions have a crucial role to play in shaping positive narratives. In this age of misinformation and fake news, we must ensure that public media serves the country, not personal agendas.

    “Nigeria belongs to all of us—Muslims, Christians, and people of all faiths. The world is watching us, and we should define ourselves, not allow others to define us. Nigerians are talented, resilient, and capable. While Nigeria is a work in progress, we should remain proud and intentional in shaping its narrative positively.”

  • Suspected bandits nabbed in Edo hotel 

    Suspected bandits nabbed in Edo hotel 

    Some suspected bandits and kidnappers who lodged at Donchichi Hotel, Odighie road, Agbede in Etsako West Local Government Area, have been arrested.

    They were reportedly arrested after some community members raised the alarm over their presence in the hotel.

    Chairman Hakeem Enatto Charity Foundation, Barr Abdul Hakeem Enatto, who shared the arrest, said, “A group of men suspected to be bandits and kidnappers have just been arrested at DonChichi Hotel Odighie Road. Agbede, Ward 7, Etsako West LGA.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “A combined team of Local Vigilante and Agbede Police Division led by the DPO CSP Donald surrounded the Hotel where they lodged . The gunmen came with two Hilux trucks but at the time they got to the hotel only one was packed so they patiently waited until the second one drove into the hotel premises and were immediately rounded up.

    “This success was achieved following a tip off from some good Samaritans. I have just reached out to the DPO who confirmed the said arrest.

    Manager of the hotel, Alhaji Kadiri Sadiq said no arms was found with the suspects.

    Alhaji Kadiri said the suspects lodged for a short rest before proceeding on their journey. 

    “It was when we suspected something sinister that we placed a call to the DPO who came and arrested them. They have been taken to the police for further investigation”.

    Edo State Police spokesman, CSP Moses Iyamu did not pick calls to his phone.

  • Shettima arrives Abidjan to represent Tinubu at Ouattara’s inauguration

    Shettima arrives Abidjan to represent Tinubu at Ouattara’s inauguration

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where he is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Monday’s inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term in office.

    According to a statement issued on Sunday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Senator Shettima will join several African leaders and international dignitaries at the swearing-in ceremony scheduled to take place at the Presidential Palace on December 8.

    Ouattara was re-elected on October 25, securing another mandate to lead the West African country, which enjoys longstanding diplomatic, economic and security partnerships with Nigeria.

    The statement noted that Nigeria remains committed to supporting democratic governance across the region and will use the occasion to reaffirm its dedication to constitutional order and the peaceful transfer of power in West Africa.

    “Nigeria has maintained a longstanding commitment to supporting sister nations in West Africa and upholding the principles of constitutional governance,” it read, adding that Shettima’s presence underscores Abuja’s resolve to promote democratic values and respect for the will of the people.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    Both countries collaborate through ECOWAS and the African Union on security, trade and development, with cooperation anchored in a Bi-National Commission and several agreements in areas such as anti-trafficking, agriculture and the digital economy. 

    A sizeable Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire has further strengthened bilateral cultural and commercial ties.

    On arrival, the Vice President was received by Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister, Robert Mambe; the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy, Mrs. Item Akpama; and other senior officials.

    Shettima is expected to return to Abuja after the ceremony, the statement added.

  • Troops rescue 14 kidnap victims, battle criminals in Enugu forest 

    Troops rescue 14 kidnap victims, battle criminals in Enugu forest 

    Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA (OPUK), have rescued 14 kidnap victims from Orokam forest in Enugu State after fierce gunbattle with criminals. 

    Orakam forest is located between Udenu local government area of Enugu and Ogbadigbo in Benue state.

    The rescue of the victims, according to the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Col. Appolonia Anele, followed actionable intelligence from vigilant community sources. 

    “Acting swiftly, troops working in concert with local vigilante mounted a deliberate assault on a suspected kidnap hideout concealed deep in the forest. On contact, the criminals unleashed gunfire, prompting a fierce engagement. 

    “The joint force’s superior firepower, tactical manoeuvre and relentless advance forced the kidnappers to break contact and flee, abandoning the abductees,” she said. 

    Anele said the victims were kidnapped over the weekend while returning from a burial, adding that they were being held in dispersed clusters across the forest.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “Intelligence further indicated that the victims were abducted from two separate communities: Ezimo Agu in Udenu LGA of Enugu State and Orokam in Ogbadigbo LGA of Benue State.

    “All rescued persons have been formally handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Udenu Division, for proper profiling and subsequent reunification with their families.

    “Nigerian Army troops continue to maintain aggressive battlespace dominance across the theatre of operations general area, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to neutralise all threats and uphold peace and security throughout the South East,” she added. 

  • Macron calls for stronger international support to Nigeria on security

    Macron calls for stronger international support to Nigeria on security

    …pledges fresh French partnership

    President Emmanuel Macron of France on Sunday urged Nigeria’s international partners to scale up engagement and support for the country’s fight against terrorism and related security threats, declaring that “no one can remain a spectator” in the face of rising violent extremism in West Africa.

    In a post on his verified X handle, @EmmanuelMacron, the French leader said he had spoken with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to whom he conveyed France’s solidarity “in the face of the various security challenges, particularly the terrorist threat in the North.”

    Macron said France would, at the request of the Nigerian government, strengthen its security partnership with the authorities and increase humanitarian support to communities affected by violence.

    “At his request, we will strengthen our partnership with the authorities and our support for the affected populations. We call on all our partners to step up their engagement,” the French President stated.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “No one can remain a spectator,” Macron added, in what appears to be a direct appeal to Western allies and regional partners to collaborate more robustly with Nigeria as it battles terrorism, banditry and other criminal incursions.

    Nigeria has in recent months escalated military operations across the North-East, North-Central and the North-West, amid renewed international concern over the activities of extremist groups and cross-border criminal networks in the Sahel region.

    The Nigerian Presidency has yet to issue an official response to Macron’s message as of the time of filing this report.

  • Adeniyi chairs first WCO policy session, boosts Nigeria’s global Customs standing

    Adeniyi chairs first WCO policy session, boosts Nigeria’s global Customs standing

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has presided over his first meeting as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council, leading the 93rd Session of the Policy Commission in Antigua, Guatemala, in a development seen as a major boost to Nigeria’s global customs profile.

    The high-level session, which held from Dec. 2 to Dec. 4, 2025, at the historic Hotel Soleil in Antigua Guatemala, brought together Heads of Customs Administrations and senior officials from across the WCO’s six regions.

    In his opening address, Adeniyi welcomed delegates to the UNESCO World Heritage city and paid solemn tribute to customs officers who lost their lives in the line of duty across the world.

    He urged participants to engage constructively on critical issues shaping the future of global customs administration, trade facilitation, and border security.

    The CGC was joined at the session by the WCO Secretary-General, Mr. Ian Saunders, and Guatemala’s Vice Minister of Public Finance, Ms. Patricia Joachin, who delivered goodwill messages on behalf of the host government.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    Delegates were also treated to the rich cultural heritage of Guatemala, including a traditional dinner hosted at the historic Capuchinas Ruins, further strengthening bonds among participating administrations.

    Adeniyi’s election as Chair of the WCO Council in June 2025 had been widely hailed as a landmark achievement for Nigeria and Africa, positioning the country at the helm of an organisation that represents 187 member administrations worldwide.

    Reflecting on the significance of the role, Adeniyi described his emergence as Chair as “a major responsibility for Nigeria and for Africa,” noting that the goal is to provide leadership that strengthens global trade, security, and inclusive customs governance.

    He noted that his election validates Nigeria’s ongoing customs transformation agenda, a view earlier expressed during an exclusive WCO Global interview on The Customs Exchange: Conversations with Global Customs Leaders.

    According to him, the confidence reposed in his leadership is “an endorsement by the global customs community that Nigeria is on track,” especially with the Service’s modernisation drive over the past two years.

    The CGC highlighted key reforms including procedural upgrades, systems alignment, and enhanced cooperation with international partners as pillars of the Nigeria Customs Service’s transformation.

    He singled out the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, developed with WCO support, as one of the most impactful reforms, noting that it has significantly reduced cargo clearance time, boosted revenue performance, and strengthened trust between Customs and compliant traders.

    Adeniyi also referenced the implementation of the SAFE Framework of Standards, the Time Release Study (TRS), and ongoing work on advance rulings as further proof of Nigeria’s alignment with global best practices.

    He called for deeper collaboration among customs administrations worldwide and stressed that diversity remains one of the WCO’s strongest assets.

    “Our uniqueness is our strength. We must allow that diversity to continue creating opportunities and progress for us,” Adeniyi said.

  • Osun 2026: APC NWC to deliberate on appeal verdict on Omisore, Alabi, others

    Osun 2026: APC NWC to deliberate on appeal verdict on Omisore, Alabi, others

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to receive, deliberate, and ratify the report of the Osun State Screening Appeal Committee on Monday concerning the seven governorship aspirants disqualified from contesting in the party’s December 13 shadow election.

    The five-member panel, led by Senator Tolu Odebiyi, conducted a two-day review of the appeals submitted by the disqualified aspirants and is expected to submit its findings ahead of the meeting of the party’s highest administrative organ at the national secretariat in Abuja.

    The aspirants seeking to overturn their disqualification include former National Secretary of the party, Senator Iyiola Omisore, and the immediate former deputy governor, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi. Others are Dotun Babayemi, Akin Ogunbiyi, Senator Babajide Omoworare, Kunle Adegoke (SAN), and Babatunde Haketer Oralusi.

    The Barrister Obinna Uzor-led screening committee had earlier cleared Hon. Mulikat Adeola Jimoh and Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji for the party’s December 13 primary election after confirming they met all regulatory requirements under the party guidelines, Constitution, and Electoral Act. 

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    The disqualified aspirants, however, were referred to the NWC for final clearance before they could participate in the shadow election.

    A member of the appeal panel, speaking in confidence on Sunday in Abuja, said the committee had productive sessions with all affected aspirants, who provided the necessary evidence and documents to support their appeals. 

    “The two-day exercise was conducted peacefully and in a family-like atmosphere,” the source noted.

    The committee’s report will be submitted to the NWC through the office of the National Organising Secretary for deliberation during the Monday meeting.

    Meanwhile, the delegates congress and delegate congress appeal are scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, and Wednesday, December 10, 2025, ahead of the party’s primary election on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

  • Insecurity: Police ban sale, use of fireworks in Ekiti

    Insecurity: Police ban sale, use of fireworks in Ekiti

    The Ekiti State Police Command has declared a total ban on the sale and use of fireworks, firecrackers, and knockouts across the state during the forthcoming end-of-year festivities.

    The command said the ban has become necessary as part of ongoing measures to guarantee the safety of lives and property during the yuletide, especially in light of the current security challenges facing the country.

    In a statement on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abutu Sunday, noted that prevailing security concerns prompted the decision, stressing that criminal elements often exploit such items to commit crimes.

    He stated, “As the yuletide season draws near, members of the public are hereby reminded that the ban on the sale and use of fireworks and firecrackers, popularly known as bangers and knockouts, in the state is still in force.

    “The ban was put in place to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the festive season to perpetrate their evil acts using these explosive instruments.

    “Moreover, the use of these fireworks could create panic and confusion, as it could be difficult to differentiate their sounds from those of real gunshots.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “The possible negative health implications of these fireworks and firecrackers on innocent citizens are numerous and must be frowned upon.”

    The police spokesman urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to warn their children and wards against engaging in the sale or use of the prohibited items.

    He warned that anyone caught violating the directive would be dealt with in line with the law.

    The PPRO added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Eribo, appreciated the support and cooperation of Ekiti residents throughout the outgoing year.

    He noted that these collaborative efforts have significantly helped in curbing crime and sustaining the peace currently being enjoyed across the state.

  • NSCDC confirms killing of two farmers, burning of village in Jigawa

    NSCDC confirms killing of two farmers, burning of village in Jigawa

    The Jigawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed that two farmers were killed and Yelwan Musari village in Guri Local Government Area was set ablaze following a violent attack by suspected Fulani herders.

    The Public Relations Officer of the Corps, SP Badaruddeen, told our reporter that the clash erupted after herders allegedly encroached on farmlands, destroying crops.

    He explained that when villagers went to inspect the damaged farmland on Sunday morning, they were ambushed by herders hiding in the area. 

    “The herders suddenly opened fire with bows and arrows, killing one Magaji Dan’aya on the spot and injuring his younger brother,” Badaruddeen said.

    The NSCDC spokesperson added that the farmers regrouped and attempted to confront the attackers, which triggered a second round of violence.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “The herders also reinforced, moved their cattle several kilometres away and launched another attack. They killed another farmer and forced the villagers to retreat,” he said.

    SP Badaruddeen added that the fleeing farmers abandoned one of the corpses in the bush, while the herders pursued them back to the community, surrounded the settlement and set it ablaze.

    He noted that although a team from Operation Salama, comprising police and military personnel, arrived the scene, the second corpse remained in the bush until NSCDC operatives later recovered it amid fears that the attackers were still hiding nearby.

    “As I speak, the body is in the house of the village head awaiting burial. Our personnel are on ground monitoring the situation. Many villagers have already fled in fear of a fresh attack,” he said, adding that the Guri LGA Chairman and security agencies were in a meeting with both sides.

    Residents Recount Night of Horror

    Eyewitnesses told Our reporter that the attack, which started late Saturday and continued into Sunday morning, escalated months of tension between farmers and herders in the area.

    A resident, Murtala Imamu, said the community had remained on edge after herders reportedly boycotted local markets. 

    He confirmed that armed herders stormed the village, setting houses and rice-milling centres ablaze.

    Imamu linked the renewed hostility to last year’s killing of a farmer, Ya’u Namara, allegedly by herders.

    Another resident, Ado Musa, corroborated the account, adding that the attackers blocked the Guri–Hadejia highway, preventing injured villagers from accessing medical care in Hadejia.

    “Police and soldiers arrived late. They could not stop the escalation because both sides had been clashing since afternoon,” he said.

    It was unclear at press time whether the herders suffered casualties. Calls to Adamu Ori, a leader among the herders, went unanswered.

    When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Lawan Shi’isu Adam, said he was unaware of the incident.

    “I’m currently in Abuja on official assignment. I will find out,” he told Online Tribune.

    Fresh Violence After Earlier Clash

    Saturday’s attack occurred barely days after another confrontation in Zarga village, Taura LGA, where 12 farmers sustained injuries.

    Guri and other communities in Jigawa North-East Senatorial District sit atop vast farmlands and grazing routes — a geography that has historically triggered clashes between farmers and herders.

    Seasonal migration of unfamiliar herder groups has reportedly deepened hostilities, often leading to casualties and destruction of property.

    Across Jigawa, the farmer–herder conflict remains entrenched in ecological pressures, dwindling resources and long-standing grievances between both communities.

  • Doro congratulates Musa on appointment as Defence Minister

    Doro congratulates Musa on appointment as Defence Minister

    The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, has congratulated a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), on his appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Defence.

    President Tinubu appointed Musa following the resignation of former Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, on health grounds.

    In a congratulatory statement on Sunday, Dr. Doro emphasised that Gen. Musa (rtd) presence at the helm will contribute significantly to reducing the insecurity affecting communities across the country.

    Doro said: “I extend my warmest congratulations to Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) on his nomination, confirmation and swearing-in as the Honourable Minister of Defence by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “This appointment is a clear reflection of the President’s keen ability to recognise exceptional talent and to place individuals in positions where their experience and character will best serve the national interest. 

    “In choosing General Musa, Mr. President has once again demonstrated his commitment to strengthening key institutions with men and women who have proven their dedication to Nigeria

    Doro commended General Musa’s (rtd) distinguished service, noting that his career has been defined by discipline and courage.

    “General Musa’s record of service speaks for itself. He is a disciplined officer, a strategist and a patriot whose leadership is certain to bring renewed vigour to our nation’s defence architecture. 

    “I am confident that his presence at the helm will contribute significantly to reducing the insecurity that has affected communities across our country.

    “As Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, I look forward to close collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and other relevant agencies. 

    “Working together, we will advance the Renewed Hope Agenda and ensure a safer, more stable environment where Nigerians can rebuild livelihoods, pursue opportunities and live with dignity.

    “I warmly congratulate General Musa once again and wish him great success in this important national assignment. His appointment is good for the country, timely for the moment and reassuring for all who desire a more secure Nigeria.”