The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Badaru denies meeting Kwankwaso, reaffirms loyalty to APC, Tinubu

    Badaru denies meeting Kwankwaso, reaffirms loyalty to APC, Tinubu

    Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has dismissed reports linking him to a purported recent meeting with New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) chieftain, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing the claims as false and misleading.

    In a statement by his Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mati Ali, Badaru explained that the photograph circulating on social media, which allegedly suggested a recent meeting between him and the NNPP leader was an old image taken on February 18, 2023.

    Read Also: Badaru dismisses defection rumour, reaffirms loyalty to APC

    He said the photograph was when both leaders coincidentally met at the VIP Wing of an airport and not as a result of any arranged or political engagement.

    The statement explained the former Minister has been outside the country for over a month, making the alleged recent meeting impossible.

  • Rhema Christian Church sets stage for glorious year at Bethel Peace Day Service

    Rhema Christian Church sets stage for glorious year at Bethel Peace Day Service

    Rhema Christian Church and Towers, Otta, is set to usher worshippers into the new year with prayers for peace, restoration and divine direction as it hosts its highly anticipated Bethel Peace Day Service on Sunday, 25 January 2026.

    The service will take place at Champion Peace Cathedral, along the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway, Temidire, Sango Otta, and is scheduled to begin promptly at 3:00 pm with church leaders describing it as a “moment of divine encounter” for individuals, families and the nation at large.

    According to the church, the Bethel Peace Day Service is a prophetic gathering designed to help worshippers seek God’s face for peace, spiritual renewal, increase and all-round restoration as they step into the new year.

    “This is not just another church programme; it is a call to align with God’s agenda for peace and restoration,” a statement from Rhema Christian Church said. “We believe God is set to meet His people in a special way.”

    Read Also: Rhema Christian Church celebrates Christmas with “Great” Candlelight Carol Service

    “As we wait on the Lord together, we trust that clear direction and uncommon testimonies will be released,” the church noted, emphasising the importance of corporate prayer at the start of the year.

    Ministering at the Bethel Peace Day Service are Archbishop Dr. Taiwo Akinola and Bishop Mrs. Iretioluwa Akinola, both of whom are expected to deliver inspired messages and prayers focused on peace, purpose and restoration.

    Speaking ahead of the programme, the church leadership urged members of the public to attend with faith and high expectations. 

    “When God’s people gather in unity and belief, lives are transformed,” the statement said.

  • Seven feared killed as terrorists attack Wawa community in Niger

    Seven feared killed as terrorists attack Wawa community in Niger

    No fewer than seven persons have been killed following a fresh attack by suspected terrorists in Wawa community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Among the victims is a staff member of the Kainji Lake National Park, whose body had not been recovered as of the time of filing this report.

    The attack plunged the agrarian community into mourning and renewed fears over worsening insecurity in Borgu Emirate. Corpses recovered so far have been deposited at the Basic Health Centre (BHC) in Wawa.

    Residents of the community confirmed the tragic loss of their kinsmen, describing the incident as devastating and traumatic for families. 

     Community leaders said the violence has deepened fear among locals who now live in constant anxiety.

    According to credible sources, the crisis began after reports emerged that a prominent youth was attacked on his farm by suspected bandits. 

    In response, a group of youths mobilised and ventured into the bush in an attempt to confront the attackers and rescue the victim.

    While some of the youths later returned safely, others were declared missing, raising concerns within the community. 

    Read Also: US ‘annihilating’ terrorists in Nigeria, says Trump

    The situation later took a grim turn when bodies were discovered in the area.

    Security operatives eventually recovered six unidentified bodies from the bush and conveyed them to Wawa. The deaths were subsequently confirmed.

    Residents described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that it has caused deep pain, fear and emotional trauma, especially among families who lost loved ones or are still awaiting news of missing relatives.

    Community leaders have urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, rumours or inflammatory messages that could further escalate tension in the area.

    Borgu local government area has witnessed a series of attacks by armed bandits in recent months, forcing many residents to flee their ancestral homes for fear of further violence.

  • Tonto Dikeh reconciles with ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill after a decade-long feud

    Tonto Dikeh reconciles with ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill after a decade-long feud

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has expressed gratitude for the restoration of her relationship with the father of her child, Olakunle Churchill.

    Dikeh, on Instagram, said after 10 years of public battles, broken communication, and pain, God stepped in and healed their relationship.

    The mother of one praised God’s faithfulness, saying He’s not a God who abandons what He’s started and will see it through to completion.

    Dikeh, who is now a converted Christian, acknowledged the role of humility, prayer, and obedience in their restoration, and encouraged others facing similar challenges to keep trusting God.

    She wrote: “We are living proof that the Word of God is eternal and unfailing.

    “God is not a God who abandons what He has started. When He begins a work, He stays with it until it is completed.

    “After ten long years of public battles, deep wounds, broken communication, bitterness, and pain, God stepped in. What looked ugly, impossible, and beyond repair has been touched by mercy. Peace has replaced chaos. Respect has returned where anger once lived. What human effort could not fix, God healed by salvation, humility, and the sincere prayers of a child.

    “This restoration is not by might, not by wisdom, not by strength —but by the Spirit of the Lord. When God moves, the human mind cannot comprehend the process. He softens hearts, silences the enemy, and rewrites stories that looked finished.

    Read Also: Tonto Dikeh warns TikTok impostor, threatens legal action over alleged scams

    “Every plan of darkness has failed. Stubbornness has bowed. Pride has melted. Love has found its voice again for my child.

    “I am deeply grateful to the father of my child Dr Kunle for yielding to God’s word and choosing peace. Obedience to God always births restoration, even when the road has been long and painful.

    “To anyone standing where I once stood, tired, wounded, misunderstood, and believing nothing good can come out of the situation,please hear this: God has not abandoned you. Your story is not over. What He has started, He will surely perfect. Keep praying. Keep choosing love. Keep trusting God even when it hurts.

    “May this restored relationship remain built on the solid rock of God’s mercy, protection, grace, and mighty hand. May it stand as a living testimony that God never fails, never forgets, and never walks away from His own. If God did it for us, He can do it for you.

    “THIS MIRACLE IS CALLED 10YEARS IN ONE DAY. EL-ROIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII. To my spiritual father, Papa, thank you for grooming a God-fearing, impact-making woman out of a Total Mess”.

  • Troops foil bandits’ attack, kill one terrorist in Kaduna

    Troops foil bandits’ attack, kill one terrorist in Kaduna

    Troops of 1 Division/Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled a bandit attack and neutralised one suspected terrorist during a snap ambush in the Maraban Rido general area of Kaduna State.

    The operation followed a distress call received late on January 22, 2026, indicating that armed bandits had rustled livestock in Anguwan Fulan village within the Rido axis.

    Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops were deployed to the area and laid a hasty ambush to intercept the fleeing criminals.

    Upon arrival, the troops made contact with the bandits and engaged them with superior firepower, forcing them to retreat in disarray with gunshot wounds.

    The soldiers subsequently carried out aggressive exploitation of surrounding forested areas, including the Kankomi forest, where another contact was made at a suspected crossing point around Anguwan Sarki.

    Read Also: COAS to troops: translate training to battlefield victory against terrorists

    During the engagement, the troops again overwhelmed the bandits, compelling them to abandon their loot and flee, leading to the recovery of some of the rustled livestock.

    Further exploitation of the ambush location in the early hours of January 23, 2026, resulted in the neutralization of one terrorist.

    Items recovered during the operation included two AK-47 rifles, four magazines and 15 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

    The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed Wase, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, while urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

  • Exam malpractice: Candidates must declare previous registration history, says JAMB

    Exam malpractice: Candidates must declare previous registration history, says JAMB

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board(JAMB) has said candidates must declare their previous registration and admission history with the board, stressing that some students were involved in examination malpractice during the conduct of last year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    Speaking in Lagos on Saturday at a meeting with Commissioners for Education in Preparation for the 2025 UTME & Direct Entry Exercises, JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede noted it is a crime by law to run more than one undergraduate programmes concurrently,thus failure to disclose such prior admission is an offence which will be sanctioned.

    Oloyede said only candidates who will not be less than 16 years old by September 30, 2026 are generally eligible to apply for the UTME and be considered for admission.

    The registrar noted that underage candidates who will be less than 16 years old by 30th September, 2026,  will undergo an intensive evaluation to determine their eligibility for a waiver, adding that such must have scored not less than 80 percent in each of UTME/A’LEVEL, PUTME, SSCE and in the exceptional candidate assessment.

    Oloyede said: “The sale of UTME application document which is the ePIN, will start earlier than commencement of actual registration which is Jan. 19 to Feb. 26. 

    “Actual UTME registration period is between Jan. 26th to Feb. 28th at all approved CBT Centres.

    “The close of  mock selection is Feb. 16 while the sale of DE application documents and E-PIN vending will commence on March 2, and close by April 25,” he said.

    He said unlike last year, the UTME results of the underage candidates will be released only at the conclusion of the complete evaluation process.

    Read Also: JAMB directs UNN, others to reverse irregular admissions

    He said all centres participating in the UTME registration exercise would be monitored live from JAMB Headquarters, stressing that any centre whose registration activities cannot viewed from its headquarters will not be paid, while such registration may be invalidated.

    Oloyede revealed that 924 centres had been screened and provisionally listed, adding that they would go through the final test before final accreditation to participate in the UTME registration and examination.

    The JAMB Registrar stated that candidates  are  not required to pay any money as service charge to any CBT centre.

    On distant posting he said JAMB does not post any candidate to any examination town (or group of towns) other than the one chosen by the candidate at the point of registration.

    He advised candidates to register  early since their preferred town may no longer have space for them at late period, adding that the choice of a group of towns implies that candidates can be posted to any of the towns in the chosen group.

  • DHQ deploys intelligence assets to rescue Kaduna kidnap victims

    DHQ deploys intelligence assets to rescue Kaduna kidnap victims

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the military, in collaboration with other agencies, is conducting sustained, intelligence-driven operations to rescue those abducted by bandits in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

    The victims, reportedly about 177 in number, were abducted by armed bandits last Sunday during a church service.

    The Military High Command, in a statement by the Director Defence Media Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, reassured the affected communities and Nigerians that “the safe rescue and reintegration of all kidnapped victims remains a paramount undertaking.”

    The statement reads: “Contrary to assertions of a diminished response, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in close collaboration with other security agencies, has been executing sustained, intelligence driven operations within the vicinity and surrounding forested areas believed to harbor the perpetrators. 

    “These operations encompass a strategic amalgamation of ground patrols, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and targeted initiatives meticulously designed to locate the kidnappers and secure the hostages without jeopardizing their safety.

    “These operations encompass a strategic amalgamation of ground patrols, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and targeted initiatives meticulously designed to locate the kidnappers and secure the hostages without jeopardizing their safety.”

    Read Also: DHQ clarifies January 15 as Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day

    According to the statement, the military recognizes the distress and trepidation experienced by the affected families and underscores that operational restraint in certain instances is a deliberate strategy, guided by the imperative to safeguard the captives and avert unintended harm. 

    “While specific operational details must remain confidential for security considerations, substantial efforts are underway to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the abductions,” the statement said. 

    It stated that the Armed Forces remain unwavering in its mandate to protect lives and property and are steadfastly committed to reuniting the kidnapped victims of Kurmin Wali with their families. 

    The military urged for sustained public support, patience, and cooperation as operations advanced toward a successful resolution.

  • PDP’s Ajadi ally welcomes Ajirotutu 

    PDP’s Ajadi ally welcomes Ajirotutu 

    A former spokesman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the South-West and the Personal Assistant to Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Kilamuwaye Oladayo Badmus, has welcomed Hon. Wasiu Ajirotutu into the PDP.

    Ajirotutu, a former 2023 Ogun East senatorial candidate of the NNPP, officially defected to the PDP on Friday, during the PDP South-West Stakeholders’ Meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    The stakeholders’ meeting, which attracted top party leaders from across the region, was described as a “turning point” for the PDP’s renewal in the South-West ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    In a statement on Saturday, Badmus described Ajirotutu’s defection as a major boost to the party’s strength in the South-West.

    He said Ajirotutu played a significant political role during his time in the NNPP, particularly during the 2023 general elections, and expressed confidence that his experience would further strengthen the PDP’s chances in the coming elections.

    Badmus said: “Hon. Wasiu Ajirotutu is a man of immense political experience and influence. His defection to the PDP is a strong signal that the party remains the most viable platform for progress and development in the South-West. We welcome him with open arms.”

    He added: “Ajirotutu’s contributions during the 2023 elections were notable. He mobilized support, strengthened party structures, and ensured that the NNPP made a meaningful impact in Ogun State. We believe that he will bring that same energy and dedication to the PDP.”

    Badmus also emphasized that the PDP is currently undergoing a strategic repositioning in the South-West, noting that the party is attracting key political actors who are committed to unity and good governance.

    Read Also: Ajadi Rescue Movement reaffirms commitment to unity, youth empowerment in Taraba

    He said: “The PDP is the party that offers the best alternative for Nigerians. Our doors are open to credible leaders who are ready to work for the welfare of the people. Ajirotutu’s arrival is a welcome development, and we look forward to working together for the success of the PDP in 2027.”

    Ajirotutu’s defection, according to political analysts, may strengthen the PDP’s presence in Ogun State, which has remained a key battleground in South-West politics.

    Speaking at the Abeokuta meeting, Ajirotutu expressed optimism about his new political home and promised to work for the party’s success.

    He said: “I am happy to join the PDP. This party has a rich history of progressive leadership and governance. I believe that together, we can deliver good governance to our people.”

    Political observers say Ajirotutu’s defection could have a ripple effect, as more political leaders may follow suit in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

  • Minority caucus report tax reform laws overtaken by events – Reps Deputy Spokesperson

    Minority caucus report tax reform laws overtaken by events – Reps Deputy Spokesperson

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, on Saturday, said that the interim report by the Minority Caucus Ad-hoc Committee on alleged alterations in the Tax Reforms Acts has been overtaken by events, following the release of the Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the laws.

    According to the committee’s preliminary findings, a comparison of the Certified True Copies released by the House with the earlier gazetted versions confirmed that alterations had been made, particularly to the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025.

    The committee’s report indicated that at least three different versions of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act were in circulation, while the directive to “align” the Acts with the Federal Government Printing Press pointed to “procedural anomalies” that illegally encroached on the legislative powers of the National Assembly.

    Agbese, while reacting to the report, argued that the leadership of the National Assembly had already taken decisive steps to address all concerns surrounding the discrepancies in the gazetted tax laws.

    Agbese said the House, under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, in collaboration with the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, had ensured the public release of the authentic versions of the four tax reform Acts as passed by the National Assembly and assented to by the President.

    According to him, the release of the Certified True Copies effectively resolved the issues raised over alleged alterations, restored public confidence and reaffirmed the independence and authority of the legislature.

    “The concerns raised regarding discrepancies in the tax laws have already been comprehensively addressed by the House leadership. With the release of the Certified True Copies of the Acts, there is now clarity as to what was passed by the National Assembly and signed into law,” Agbese said.

    He noted that the Speaker had also directed an internal verification process to ensure that only the authentic versions of the laws were in circulation, stressing that this action demonstrated the commitment of the House to transparency, due process and the protection of democratic institutions.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s intervention averted implosion in National Assembly – Reps deputy spokesperson

    Agbese added that the proactive steps taken jointly by the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly showed that the legislature was united in safeguarding its constitutional role and preventing any erosion of its law-making powers.

    While acknowledging the right of lawmakers to raise concerns in the interest of accountability, the Deputy Spokesperson maintained that the corrective measures already implemented made further controversy unnecessary.

    “The House has acted swiftly and responsibly. The leadership did not wait for public pressure to mount before taking action. The release of the Certified Acts has settled the matter and ensured that Nigerians are guided only by the correct and lawful versions of the tax reforms,” he said.

    Agbese assured Nigerians that the House of Representatives would continue to work with the Senate and relevant institutions to strengthen legislative processes and prevent a recurrence of such issues in the future.

  • Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    Federal lawmakers representing Ondo State in the National Assembly have pledged total support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, vowing to work collectively to ensure unity, stability, and effective governance within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

    The lawmakers, all members of the House of Representatives from the State, made the pledge on Friday while being hosted to a dinner by the governor at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Akure.

    At the meeting, the lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to the success of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration and the overall development of Ondo state.

    Those present at the dinner included Hon. Abiodun Derin Adesida (Akure South/Akure North), Hon. Abiola Makinde (Ondo East/Ondo West), Hon. Timehin Adelegbe (Owo/Ose), Hon. Gboyega Adefarati (Akoko South West/Akoko South-East), Hon. Ife Ehindero (Akoko North-East/Akoko North-West).

    Others include: Hon. Festus Akingbaso (Idanre/Ifedore), Hon. Festus Adefiranye (Ileoluji-Okeigbo/Odigbo), Hon. Donald Ojogo (Ilaje/Ese-Odo) and Hon. Jimi Odimayo (Okitipupa/Irele).

    Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, Hon. Adesida said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government, as well as closing ranks within the APC in the state.

    He said the federal legislators had resolved to ensure unity within the party and support policies that promote effective governance and development.

    The lawmakers stressed that a united APC remains critical to sustaining development and consolidating the party’s hold on Ondo State, noting that internal cohesion would also strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

    They commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for hosting them and praised the developmental strides recorded by his administration across the state.

    Pledging their loyalty, the lawmakers assured the governor of their readiness to put politics aside and continue to contribute their quota to the development of Ondo State and the growth of the APC.

    Aiyedatiwa described the collaboration with the federal lawmakers as a major boost for the state, noting that such synergy is essential for sustaining development and stability in the sunshine state.

    The Governor said his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of the people and the development of the state above political considerations.

    Read Also: Ondo by-election: Aspirants scramble for Jimoh Ibrahim’s seat

    He added peace, unity, and stability in the state should be seen as a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of all stakeholders.

    The Governor also briefed the lawmakers on activities lined up to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo state.

    He expressed delight that all 12 members of the National Assembly from the state, as well as all 26 members of the State House of Assembly, are now members of the APC, describing the development as unprecedented in the state’s political history.

    The Nation report that the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration for development, fostering unity within the APC ahead of the party’s congresses, and aligning federal and state development priorities to ensure Ondo state benefits maximally from federal projects under the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Tinubu.