The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Two dismissed Army officers nab for robbery as police recover three cars in Ibadan

    Two dismissed Army officers nab for robbery as police recover three cars in Ibadan

    Two dismissed Nigerian Army officer, David Okhaie and Balogun Afolabi, have been arrested by operatives of Nigerian Police, Oyo State Command for armed robbery 

    The two notorious robbers specialized in dispossessing unsuspecting members of the public of their vehicles at gunpoint, thereby instilling fear and disrupting public peace within the state.

    Confirming the development in a statement, the Spokesman of the Oyo State Police Command, Ayanlade Olayinka said the duo were arrested following credible intelligence and an intense manhunt, which culminated in a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation carried out within the Ibadan metropolis.

    Ayanlade said search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of three vehicles including: a Toyota Camry, Toyota Corrolla, a Lexus RX 350 and one Super Cargo motorcycle.

    He said, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that, in furtherance of its sustained efforts to combat violent crimes and ensure the safety of lives and property across the State, operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit have recorded a significant operational success with the arrest of two notorious armed robbery suspects.

    “This breakthrough followed credible intelligence and an intense manhunt, which culminated in a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation carried out within the Ibadan metropolis.

    “The suspects were identified as David Okhaie, male, aged 48 years, of Ojoo Area, Ibadan, a dismissed Corporal of the Nigerian Army with Service Number 2005NA/…./…., who falsely paraded himself as an Army Captain, and Balogun Afolabi, male, aged 43 years, of Wakajaiye Area, Ibadan, also a dismissed Corporal of the Nigerian Army with Service Number 2011NA/…./……

    “Subsequent investigations revealed that the suspects specialize in dispossessing unsuspecting members of the public of their vehicles at gunpoint, thereby instilling fear and disrupting public peace within the State.

    Read Also: 273 Army officers begin senior staff course exams in Jaji

    “Consequently, a search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of the following exhibits from the suspects: one Toyota Camry, black in colour, with registration number KRD 253 KC; one Toyota Corolla, metallic in colour, with registration number JTA 938 AA; one Lexus RX 350, silver in colour, unregistered; and one Super Cargo motorcycle, black in colour, with registration number YRE 487 VD.”

    He said both suspects have confessed to the commission of the crimes and are currently providing useful information to assist ongoing investigations, with a view to apprehending other members of the criminal syndicate and recovering additional stolen properties.

    He urged the members of the public who may have lost their vehicles to armed robbery or theft, and whose vehicle descriptions match any of the recovered exhibits, to come forward to the Oyo State Police Command with valid proof of ownership and means of identification for verification and possible claim of their vehicles.

  • Millions of children out of school in northern Nigeria, girls worst hit — UNICEF

    Millions of children out of school in northern Nigeria, girls worst hit — UNICEF

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern that millions of children in Northern Nigeria remain out of school, with girls facing greater disadvantages due to entrenched cultural, economic and social barriers that hinder school completion.

    The Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Kano, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, disclosed this in a keynote address at the 2026 International Day of Education (IDE) commemoration held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

    Farah identified poverty, insecurity, harmful social norms and limited educational resources as major factors weakening learning outcomes and eroding the aspirations of children across the region.

    The event, which drew stakeholders from UNICEF-supported states including Kano, Katsina and Jigawa, was held under the theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.” UNICEF stressed the need to place young people at the centre of discussions on shaping the future of education by 2030.

    While acknowledging progress recorded in some parts of Northern Nigeria, Farah urged youths to take a leading role in transforming the country’s education system, describing education as a fundamental right, a source of hope and the foundation of sustainable national development.

    Addressing government officials, development partners, educators, parents, media practitioners and youths, Farah said education remains the strongest weapon for breaking cycles of hardship and building a future where every child can thrive with dignity.

    “Education is not just a service; it is a right, a beacon of hope and the foundation of every strong society,” he said. “It is what gives every child—girl or boy the freedom to dream, to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to walk with pride.”

    According to him, young people are demanding an education system that is relevant, inclusive, safe and empowering one that inspires creativity, motivates learning and leaves no child behind.

    “They want classrooms that ignite imagination, teachers who inspire, and systems that catch every child,” Farah noted.

    “Education must go beyond textbooks to equip children with life skills, digital competence, critical thinking and the confidence to shape their own future.”

    He added that the International Day of Education should not only be a moment of reflection, but a call to renewed commitment and collective action.

    Read Also: Anambra, UNICEF assure children’s safety ahead Measles-Rubella vaccination

    “At UNICEF, we remain firmly committed to supporting governments and communities in Kano Field Office states to strengthen education systems, improve learning environments, promote adolescent development and ensure access to quality education for every child,” he said.

    Farah emphasised that investing in education yields far-reaching dividends, noting that educating a child uplifts a family, educating a girl strengthens a community, and sustained investment in education lays the foundation for peace and sustainable development.

    He also commended development partners, community and traditional leaders, teachers, civil society organisations and youths driving initiatives such as the Youth-Led Education Lab.

    “Your voices matter. Your ideas matter,” he told the youths. “You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are partners today, shaping history.”

    As the IDE 2026 celebration drew to a close, the UNICEF chief urged stakeholders to renew their collective resolve to ensure that every child in the Northwest and across Nigeria whether in urban centres or rural communities has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.

    “Let us keep faith in the transformative power of education,” he said, wishing all stakeholders a successful International Day of Education 2026.

  • FG set to engage military retirees to reclaim ungovern spaces, strengthen national security

    FG set to engage military retirees to reclaim ungovern spaces, strengthen national security

    The Federal Government is set to engage retired military personnel to reclaim ungovern spaces and strengthen national security.

    This followed the inauguration of an 18-member committee by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), on Reclaiming Ungoverned Spaces for Economic Viability and the Repositioning of the Nigerian Legion corps of Commissionaires and Veterans, at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja, on Tuesday.

    According to a statement by Deputy Director Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu the Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwa.

    Muss said the repositioning of the Nigeria Legion was part of a broader government commitment to ensure that veterans who have served the nation with honour are not left behind but are empowered to live dignified and productive lives after service.

    The Minister described the initiative as a deliberate and strategic policy intervention designed to address long-standing structural and operational challenges that have limited the contribution of the defence community to national development.

    He described Nigeria Legion as “a critical institution with a proud history of service, sacrifice and patriotism”, noted that it has continued to play important roles in supporting national security and veterans affairs, and that evolving socio-economic realities makes it imperative to reform and reposition the corps for greater relevance and sustainability. 

    Read Also: Military retirees block finance ministry’s entrance over unpaid entitlements

    Musa advocated for a strategic shift from an over-reliance on military offensive to a more comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable approach to national security adding that while military operations remain indispensable, enduring peace and stability can only be achieved by addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that enable insecurity to persist.

    The committee has three (3) Terms of Reference, which include: To reposition the veteran community to support national economic development; To deploy veterans to secure Ungoverned Spaces and ensure that the areas are brought under effective oversight and development; and To reposition the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires, strengthen operational effectiveness, facilitate veterans reintegration and promote their contribution to national security.

    The Minister urged members of the committee to adopt innovative, practical and forward looking approaches that reflect contemporary realities, “gathering and foster trust between communities and the state.”

    The membership of the committee were drawn from the Joint Services Department of the ministry, Nigeria Legion, Defence headquarters, Defence Intelligence Agency, Nigeria Army, Nigeria Navy, Nigeria Air force as well as representatives from Offices of the Honourable Minister of Defence and Honourable Minister of State Defence. 

  • Forest guard approval: NCYP commends Tinubu, urges community-based youth recruitment in Plateau

    Forest guard approval: NCYP commends Tinubu, urges community-based youth recruitment in Plateau

    The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards to strengthen the fight against insecurity in Plateau state, describing the move as a fulfillment of the President’s campaign promise to tackle security challenges in rural and forest communities.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, NCYP said the approval reflected the President’s commitment to addressing the persistent threats posed by criminal elements operating within forest corridors across the country.

    However, the group urged Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to ensure that the recruitment process is community-focused and inclusive, with priority given to youths from forest-bordering and security-hotspot communities.

    NCYP noted that such youths possess superior knowledge of the terrain and forest pathways, adding that they and their families are often the first victims of attacks, which would naturally make them more committed and vigilant in defending their communities.

    The group warned that any deviation from a community-based recruitment approach could undermine the Forest Guard initiative and potentially worsen insecurity, cautioning against the process being hijacked to compensate political interests or armed thugs.

    Read Also: Bodies of five forest guards killed by bandits found

    It expressed concern that politicised recruitment could lead to abuse of the structure, including the harassment of political opponents, as witnessed in some vigilante operations in other states.

    NCYP also emphasised the need for the involvement of traditional rulers, saying they are best positioned to identify credible youths from vulnerable communities and recommend them for recruitment to ensure accountability and discipline.

    While welcoming the initiative, the group described the approved 1,000 Forest Guards as inadequate for Plateau State, and called on President Tinubu to approve an additional 4,000 recruits to ensure effective coverage and lasting security impact across the state.

  • Nigeria–Türkiye agreements to unlock trade, investment opportunities — Business Council member

    Nigeria–Türkiye agreements to unlock trade, investment opportunities — Business Council member

    A member of the Nigeria–Türkiye Business Council, Dr. Ifeanyi Onukwubiri, has said the newly signed bilateral agreements between Nigeria and Türkiye will unlock fresh opportunities in trade, investment and private-sector collaboration for both countries.

    Onukwubiri, who is the Chief Executive Officer of TMT Travels and Tours Limited, said the agreements reached by Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Bola Ahmed Tinubu during their recent meeting in Ankara reflect a renewed commitment to expanding economic relations and enhancing security cooperation.

    In a statement issued in Owerri on Wednesday, he noted that the accords and memoranda of understanding signed across critical sectors — including trade, investment, energy, education and defence — would create a more business-friendly environment and attract increased investor confidence from both nations.

    “The agreements represent a strategic step towards expanding bilateral trade, improving market access and encouraging stronger private-sector collaboration between Nigeria and Türkiye,” he said.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Türkiye to fast-track trade, energy, defence ties — Tinubu

    Onukwubiri described the reaffirmation of the $5 billion bilateral trade volume target as a clear indication of both governments’ determination to scale up commercial exchanges and long-term investment flows.

    According to him, the improved framework for cooperation would help Nigerian businesses tap into Türkiye’s manufacturing, construction and logistics strengths, while opening Nigeria’s large consumer market to Turkish investors.

    He added that the development aligns with the objectives of the Nigerian–Turkish Business Council, which focuses on promoting sustainable partnerships and investment-driven growth.

    Onukwubiri also pledged that TMT Travels and Tours Limited would continue to work with relevant authorities and stakeholders in both countries to support initiatives that deepen trade relations and strengthen economic cooperation.

  • Uba Sani bags awards, distributes medical equipment, ambulances

    Uba Sani bags awards, distributes medical equipment, ambulances

    Governor Uba Sani has bagged five awards from different health sector unions for revitalising healthcare delivery and improving on the welfare of their personnel since he assumed office.

    The awards were presented to him on Tuesday at the commissioning of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board headquarters, where the Governor also flagged-off of the distribution of medical equipment and ambulances.

    The Kaduna State Council of Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives and the Kaduna State chapter of Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria gave him separate awards.

    The Governor also bagged awards from  Kaduna State chapters of National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria and the Association of Medical Laboratory Technicians and Assistants of Nigeria.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Uba Sani listed some of his administration’s achievements in the health sector in the last two and half years.

    He said that his government has revitalised  and upgraded 255 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) to Level-2 status,  the largest number in the country, which is aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare in underserved areas.

    The Governor has also ‘’Established 23 PHC Centres of Excellence – 1 in each LGA – to serve as centres for more advanced care and hub for data generation and patient referrals.’’

    ‘’We have established 120 new neonatal corners across the state, significantly reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially in the rural and underserved areas,’’ he added.

    Governor Uba Sani has also procured ‘’ three  Oxygen plants with a robust carrier system to supply other facilities, in order to reduce morbidity and mortality attributable to emergency cases.’’

    Kaduna State Government under his leadership, has also renovated ‘’19 General Hospitals across the state to enhance secondary healthcare services as befitting referral centres from PHCs.’’

    He also listed the upgrading of  the KADHSMA warehouse to a pharma-grade facility with a 1,600 sqm storage space, ensuring uninterrupted availability of essential medicines.

    According to him, Kaduna State has commenced payment of full 2024 CONMESS and CONHESS Salary Scales, adding that it has cleared all promotion backlogs.

    Governor Uba Sani also said that  the flagging  off of the   distribution of modern medical equipment and ambulances to  Primary Health Care facilities which held on Tuesday,  is aimed at  improving service delivery, emergency response, and referral systems across the State.

    He pointed out that ‘’this  is the 2nd tranche of state-of-the-art medical equipment distributed to our PHCs by our administration since our assumption of office.

    ‘’We strongly believe that no mother should lose her life while giving birth, and no child should die from preventable causes because essential equipment or timely transportation is unavailable.

    The Governor also noted that the  Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board Headquarters is  the biggest of its kind nationwide, adding that it will serve as the nerve center for driving reforms,  monitoring performance, and ensuring that every Primary Health Care facility across our Wards functions optimally.

    Read Also: Uba Sani to construct largest bus terminal in Nigeria

    While welcoming  newly recruited 1,800 health workers into the  health system, he emphasised that they ‘’are the 1st set of the annual staff recruitment we are embarking upon over the period of five  consecutive years.’’

    ‘’This bold recruitment drive demonstrates our recognition that infrastructure and equipment alone are not enough—people are the backbone of healthcare,’’ he argued.

    The Governor said his administration has consistently prioritized primary health care because we believe it is the foundation of a functional health system and a critical pathway to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

    ‘’Through facility revitalization, improved governance under the Primary Health Care Under One Roof policy, health workforce expansion, and strategic partnerships, we are ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of location or socioeconomic status,’’ he added.

  • Tinubu consoles Super Eagles captain on father’s death

    Tinubu consoles Super Eagles captain on father’s death

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent a message of condolence to Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi, over the death of his father, Sunday Ndidi.

    In a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as tragic and painful for the family and all who knew the deceased.

    Sunday Ndidi reportedly died in a road accident in Umunede, near Agbor, in Delta State, on Tuesday. 

    His son, Wilfred Ndidi, plays for Turkish Super Lig side Beşiktaş and serves as captain of the Super Eagles.

    Tinubu, in his condolence message, said he was deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Sunday Ndidi, noting the close bond he shared with his son.

    “I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Sunday Ndidi. I share in the grief of his family, friends and associates, particularly Wilfred Ndidi, who shared a strong bond with his father as a mentor and guide in his remarkable career as an exceptional footballer,” the President said.

    Read Also: Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    He added that the late Ndidi’s values and personal conduct left a lasting impression on those around him.

    “There is no doubt that Sunday’s modest beginnings and honesty greatly impacted those who looked up to him for inspiration,” the President noted.

    The President also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family and for the repose of the soul of the departed.

    He asked God Almighty to grant the Ndidi family the strength to bear the loss and to grant eternal rest to Sunday Ndidi.

  • Trump warns Iraq not to reinstate al-Maliki as Prime Minister

    Trump warns Iraq not to reinstate al-Maliki as Prime Minister

    U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw the U.S. support from Iraq if former Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki, is reinstated to the post.

    “Because of (al-Maliki’s) insane policies and ideologies, if elected, the United States of America will no longer help Iraq.

    “If we are not there to help, Iraq has ZERO chance of Success, Prosperity, or Freedom,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.

    “Last time Maliki was in power, the Country descended into poverty and total chaos.That should not be allowed to happen again,” Trump said.

    He added that Iraq would be making “a very bad choice by reinstalling Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister.”

    Around two and a half months after parliamentary elections in Iraq, the ruling Shiite alliance nominated al-Maliki as its candidate for the office of prime minister a week ago.

    Iraq’s parliament on Tuesday was supposed to elect a new president, who would then nominate the prime minister.

    However, according to media reports, the election of the president was postponed due to disagreements over the candidate.

    Al-Maliki, 75, was head of government in Iraq from 2006 to 2014 after the fall of long-time dictator Saddam Hussein.

    Critics, including representatives of the U.S. leadership has accused him, among other things, of being responsible for the success of the extremist militia organisation Islamic State due to poor governance.

    Many in Iraq consider him one of the country’s most corrupt politicians.

    Al-Maliki and his Shiite party alliance have close ties to neighbouring Iran.

    More than 20 years after the U.S. invasion and the overthrow of Hussein, and years of terrorist rule by Islamic State in parts of the country, stability in Iraq remains fragile.

    Both the U.S. and Iran are trying to assert their influence in the country.

    Given the tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, corruption and ongoing violence, many people’s distrust of politics runs deep.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Zlatan Ibile denies viral post on babymama

    Zlatan Ibile denies viral post on babymama

    Afrobeats singer Zlatan Ibile has denied a viral post allegedly stating that Davita, the mother of his children, is not his wife.

    The post, which sparked controversy, was shared on social media without verification.

    In a response on Twitter, Zlatan expressed frustration with Nigerians who share unverified information, calling the post “fake”.

    The singer, known for keeping a low profile, made it clear he doesn’t usually explain himself on social media but felt compelled to address the false claims.

    Read Also: Why I won’t invest in up-and-coming artists – Zlatan Ibile

    “Y’all know I hate to shalaye. But if you’re still one of those who can’t differentiate or confirm before you engage an agenda post in 2026 !! You don’t deserve to have internet on your phone !! THIS IS FAKE !!! Banger boy, your time is coming soon”, he wrote.

    Zlatan and Davita, who have two sons together, have been celebrating milestones.

     Zlatan recently supported Davita as she graduated from Birmingham University, and they also celebrated their second son’s first birthday.

  • Nkechi Blessing apologises to Imisi over controversial question at birthday party

    Nkechi Blessing apologises to Imisi over controversial question at birthday party

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has apologised to Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner Imisi over a question she asked during her birthday party, which sparked widespread backlash on social media.

    Imisi, who turned 24 on Tuesday, threw a lavish birthday bash with celebrities in attendance.

    Spotted at the party were Eddie Watson, Bisola Aiyeola, Kiekie, Nkechi Blessing, Mercy Eke, Brodashaggi, BBNaija Kola, Mide, Mitchy, Isabella, Kayvee, and more.

    During a question-and-answer session at the party, Nkechi Blessing had asked Imisi if she would ever forgive and reconcile with her mother, referencing the reality star’s strained relationship with her birth mother.

    The question drew intense criticism from netizens, who deemed it insensitive and inappropriate.

    In a video message, Nkechi Blessing expressed regret for any offense caused, saying, “I sincerely want to apologise to anybody who got offended by the question I asked Imisi a couple of hours ago at her party. If you find my question offensive, I am sorry. Find a place in your heart to forgive me. Whoever is dragging me, fighting me, abusing me, please don’t be offended”.

    Read Also: Nkechi Blessing cries out after phone number goes viral on Facebook

    She maintained that she was not seeking to stir controversy or chase clout.

    The controversy stems from Imisi’s mother publicly claiming that her daughter had abandoned her after winning the Big Brother Naija show.

    Imisi has since emphasised that she prioritises her family and is taking care of her mother.

    Imisi won the N150 million grand prize in October 2025, beating nine other contestants, including Dede and Koyin, who finished second and third, respectively.