The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

2027: Why SDP rejected coalition talks to wrest power from Tinubu, by Adebayo
- ‘Most opposition leaders would be bad presidents’
The former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has explained why the coalition talks involving his party and some others failed.

He said the main opposition figures pushing for an alliance lack credibility, clear ideology, and the moral standing required to rescue Nigeria.

Adewole, who said the SDP was never opposed to any coalition politics in principle, added that the party would not align with individuals, questionable characters, or politicians whose records and motivations contradict the party’s values.

Addressing reporters yesterday during the 2025 Christmas Marathon and Health Walk he and his wife, Queen Lilian, organised in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Adebayo said opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu alone is not enough justification for forming a coalition.

“We are talking with the coalition, and we are trying to find a common purpose. This common purpose has to have meaning in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

“The fact that I don’t like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not mean I should accept the same things I dislike him for from others. That’s why I interviewed each of them who came. I don’t even bother to interview some of them, and you all know them.

“They are people who came to our party, and we didn’t allow them to come in, and they have now re-grouped to another party to do their own thing. We told many of them to go away because you can’t say you wanted to rescue Nigeria and you’re a fraud,” Adebayo said.

The SDP stalwart argued that many opposition figures attempting to form a coalition are merely trying to capitalise on public anger over the present government’s “poor performance” rather than offering genuine alternatives.

Read Also: SDP hails Supreme Court verdict, says ruling reinforces party autonomy

Using an analogy, he said Nigerians should not be deceived by cosmetic differences among politicians like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

He said these political figures, like other politicians, are seeking patronage in government under the guise of fighting for the masses.

“I think it’s better to make sure that the person who wants to collaborate with you doesn’t have similar tendencies like the person you want to take power from. It will be like: what’s the point for a chicken to vote for any of these three people?

“Someone said the best way to handle a chicken during Christmas is to roast it. Another said fry it; another said parboil it. How would the chicken vote for any of them?

“Since they could disagree among themselves, none of them could then force the chicken. What we are trying to do is to ensure that people don’t capitalise on the bad performance of the government, or to come and insinuate to us or ride on the wave of that anger.”

“So, these people who are coming are going to be worse. When I saw their mascot (the late President Muhammadu) Buhari, I was convinced that we would be dead. We should make sure that someone who is not worse is not smuggled in,” he said.

Adebayo urged fellow Nigerians to ensure that individuals “worse than the government” are not “smuggled” into power under the pretext of opposition unity.

The SDP stalwart said many politicians who sought to join the party were rejected after internal screening.

He noted that some were not even granted interviews.

“We told many of them to go away. You can’t say you want to rescue Nigeria when you’re a fraud,” Adebayo stated.

The SDP stalwart also criticised politicians with questionable pasts and character, most especially those facing corruption charges and allegations and planning to take over from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Some people are doing coalition after leaving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) custody on bail,” he said.

According to him, criminality and opportunism have no place in genuine reform politics.

“The fact that I am angry with President Tinubu doesn’t say I’m blind. How can I say President Tinubu is not capable of governing due to agility and now bring or work with someone who is his older brother?

“In the long run, you must be credible. What drives you to do something must not be hatred or opportunism. You must look at a way to make the country better.”

The SDP leader stressed that any coalition must be based on shared ideology and accountability.

“You must first confess your contribution to the problems we are facing today as a country before you can talk about coalition,” he said.

Adebayo said many politicians are driven by dependence on government patronage, positing how he persuaded his party leaders that remaining out of power was preferable to betraying Nigerians.

“Some people are incapable of being outside government for six hours because they are used to free cars, houses, and privileges.

“For me, if you cannot help the Nigerian people, let us not kill them. It is better not to enter government than to become enemies of the people,” he said.
December 29, 2025
President’s economic reforms developing Nasarawa, says Sule

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, which he said have been instrumental to the development of the state.

Addressing reporters in Lafia, the state capital, Sule said the reforms have laid a solid foundation for economic growth in Nasarawa and across the country.

“Without the reforms of Mr. President, most of the development we are seeing today, especially here in Nasarawa State, would not have happened.

“The reforms have created the economic boom we are witnessing. That is the reason we have been able to achieve what we have achieved.

“We are forever grateful to Mr. President for these reforms, and we are also grateful to the people of Nigeria for accepting them. That is why we are where we are today,” he said.

The governor said the visible outcomes across sectors were clear indications that the reforms were yielding positive results and setting the stage for further development.

Sule said his administration came on board with a clear vision to industrialise the state.

“To industrialise Nasarawa State, you must identify areas of competitive advantage. Industries require raw materials.

Read Also: Tinubu’s economic reforms yield positive indicators — Presidency

“Our first competitive advantage is mining, which is why we are known as the ‘State of Solid Minerals’. The second is agriculture. That is why we have invested heavily in that sector,” he said.

The governor explained that industrialisation cannot be sustained without a skilled workforce, hence the emphasis on vocational and technical education.

“That is why we are putting so much effort into vocational and technical education. We have established technical schools that are recognised by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

“The technical college in Lafia is now being used as a national model for training. This helps us to create employment, empower our youth and prepare them for industry,” he said

Sule also listed the state’s proximity to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the prevailing peace in the state as major attractions for investors.

“Our closeness to the FCT is a huge advantage, which we are leveraging to create the right atmosphere for industrialisation.

“The peace we have been able to sustain in Nasarawa State is another key factor attracting big investors,” he said.

On the wave of political defections and concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, Sule dismissed such fears.

“One-party system is not good for democracy, and I do not believe any party, including the APC, has any interest in pursuing that,” he said.

The governor assured the people of Nasarawa State that he would continue to do his best in service to the people.

“It is the people of Nasarawa State who drafted me to be governor; If they draft me for any other position, and I believe I can do the job, I will do it,” Sule added.

December 29, 2025
NCoS FCT’s inmates get skills, education ahead of reintegration

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) yesterday said it has empowered inmates with expanded skill acquisition and educational training programmes.

The NCos said this is aimed at rehabilitation and reduction of recidivism in Abuja.

The FCT Controller of Corrections, Mr. Christopher Jen, explained that the initiatives were designed to facilitate the seamless reintegration of inmates into society by equipping them with relevant vocational skills and formal education.

In a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Samson Duza, the Controller stated that since assuming office, the command had prioritised the training of inmates.

He said this was through strategic partnerships with various organisations, adding that donations of training materials by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) had greatly strengthened the programmes across custodial centres in the FCT.

“I am immensely proud of the transformative progress we’ve made in empowering inmates through skills acquisition and education.

“These partnerships with NGOs have not only equipped over 800 inmates with practical skills, but is paving way for true rehabilitation and reduced recidivism,” he said.

Jen said the command is running diverse skills acquisition programmes, cutting across vocational, creative and agricultural sectors.

The Controller listed some areas the inmates have acquired skills to include barbing, with 32 inmates in training; cap-making, with 35 inmates; embroidery, with five inmates; shoemaking, with 42 inmates; tailoring, with 48 inmates; carpentry, with eight inmates, among others.

Read Also: Transfer request: Court orders Nnamdi Kanu to serve motion on Fed Govt, NCoS

He said the inmates were undergoing training in the aforementioned fields, among others.

Jen added that agricultural-based skills featured prominently, with 200 inmates trained in fisheries, 78 in poultry farming, and 80 in paint production.

He said the inmates were actively pursuing recognised academic qualifications across custodial centres.

“At the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje, 97 inmates have been registered for the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) examinations, and 65 are sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO).

“At the MSCC, Suleja, 30 inmates were enrolled for NABTEB, while another 30 were registered for NECO examinations,” he added.

Jen said a total of 222 inmates have been enrolled in secondary education programmes, while 201 others were pursuing degree programmes with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

“With 222 inmates enrolled in secondary education and 201 pursuing degrees at NOUN, we’re proving that second chances start with education.

“Our gratitude goes to our NGO partners whose donations have made this vision a reality,” Jen said.

The Controller reaffirmed the NCoS commitment to transformative justice, stressing that the programmes were geared toward equipping inmates with marketable skills and knowledge necessary for productive and law-abiding lives after release.

He thanked the service’s partner organisations and NGOs for their sustained support in advancing inmates’ rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives.

December 29, 2025
Edun: economy remains stable despite airstrikes in Sokoto
- Every effort to safeguard Nigerians is pro-growth, pro-investment
The Federal Government yesterday said its concerted efforts and international collaboration in tackling terrorism would have no negative effect on the overall economy.

Such decisive actions, it believes, have the potential to reinforce investor confidence and economic growth.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, in a statement, said the country’s security operations were designed to strengthen security rather than create uncertainty in financial or investment circles.

Edun spoke against the background of concerns in some quarters on the joint security operation conducted by Nigeria and the United States (U.S.) against identified terrorist elements in Sokoto on Thursday.

He explained that the context of the operation was crucial to understanding its broader economic implications.

According to him, the collaborative mission between Nigerian security forces and the United States was strictly directed at terrorist elements threatening national safety and economic activity.

Details of the airstrikes’ outcome are still sketchy, but the effect has sent shock waves to terrorists and bandits.

“What Nigeria is decisively confronting, alongside trusted international partners, is terrorism.

“This distinction is important, and it is fundamental to understanding the positive economic implications of recent actions,” Edun said.

He noted that the Sokoto operation was precise, intelligence-led, and focused exclusively on terrorist elements that threaten innocent lives, national stability, and economic activity.

“Far from destabilising markets or weakening confidence, such actions strengthen the foundations of peace, protect productive communities, and reinforce the conditions required for sustainable growth.

“Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment,” Edun said.

He highlighted that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the country had recorded tangible progress in both security and economic reform, with measurable outcomes reflected in recent macroeconomic indicators.

“In the third quarter of 2025, Nigeria recorded Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.98 per cent, following a strong 4.23 per cent growth in the second quarter.

Read Also: More strikes await terrorists as details of Sokoto attack unfold

“We expect a stronger fourth quarter 2025 GDP performance.

“Inflation has decelerated for the seventh consecutive period and is now below 15 per cent, reflecting improving price stability and the effectiveness of coordinated fiscal and monetary actions,” Edun said.

He pointed out that Nigeria’s financial markets remain steady, with domestic and international debt platforms operating efficiently under prudent fiscal management.

He noted that the country has secured credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, which were independent validations of policy direction and reform outcomes.

“We have maintained fiscal discipline, prioritised efficiency, and protected macroeconomic stability, demonstrating resilience in the face of external shocks,” Edun said.

He reiterated President Tinubu’s last week’s national address, which emphasised that the government’s priority for 2026 is to consolidate the gains recorded in 2025, build stronger economic resilience, and sustain the momentum toward an economy driven by inclusive and durable growth.

“The actions we take today on security, reforms, and fiscal discipline are aligned with that goal.

“As markets reopen on Monday, 29 December 2025 (today), investors can be confident that Nigeria remains focused, reform-driven, and committed to stability.

“The fundamentals are strengthening, the policy direction is clear, and the resolve of this administration to protect lives, secure prosperity, and grow the economy is unwavering.

“Nigeria remains open for business, anchored in peace, and firmly focused on the future,” Edun said.

The Nigerian stock market closed for the week, on the eve of the Sokoto strike, with a net capital gain of N953 billion to strengthen its year-to-date return to 49.17 per cent, one of the five highest returns globally.

Foreign investors have shown considerable positive sentiment for the Nigerian market.

The latest foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) report had shown that the rate of participation by FPIs in the Nigerian market increased by some 479 basis points, with retained funds or surpluses from foreign transactions so far this year nearly half of their total transactions in the previous year.

The proportion of foreign to domestic participation has shifted from the previous 15.98-84.02 per cent to 20.77-79.23 per cent, underscoring the stronger influence of FPIs.

Growing foreign participation and steady domestic demand had seen turnover at the Nigerian stock market rising to a new record of N10.54 trillion.

Trading data at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) showed that total transactions have more than doubled to N10.54 trillion over the past 11 months, driven by increased participation by foreign investors.

As against the previous trend where outflows were more than inflows, there has been a considerable increase in inflows compared to outflows under the new bullish sentiment.

A breakdown of the 11-month trading data showed that total turnover at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) increased from N4.91 trillion by November 2024 to N10.54 trillion by November 2025.

Total transactions by FPIs jumped by 178.8 per cent from N785.28 billion to N2.189 trillion.

Foreign inflows had grown by 218.9 per cent from N370.15 billion to N1.18 trillion, while outflows were slower at 142.89 per cent from N415.13 billion to N1.001 trillion.

Nigerians across the broad spectrum continued to stake high on the overall economic outlook, with total domestic transactions rising from N4.12 trillion to N8.35 trillion.

Domestic retail investors’ turnover rose from N2.11 trillion to N3.22 trillion, while domestic institutional investors traded N5.13 trillion in 2025 as against N2.02 trillion in 2024.

Nigeria’s inflation rate has dropped consecutively for the past eight months to stand at 14.45 per cent.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) recorded its highest growth this year in the third quarter as sustained improvements in the non-oil sector supported the economy to a 3.46 per cent growth.
December 29, 2025
Makinde, Fayose in row over N50b Fed Govt’s cash support for Ibadan blast victims

The brickbats yesterday between Governor Seyi Makinde and former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has raised dusts over the Federal Government financial support for the Oyo State Government in connection with the 2024 explosion in Ibadan.

In Fayose’s response to Makinde’s attack on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, during his media chart on Wednesday, the ex-governor accused Makinde of not mentioning the N50 billion support given to the state by the Federal Government to mitigate the effect of the explosion which affected many houses in Ibadan GRA.

But Makinde yesterday debunked the N50 billion, saying his government got N30 billion.

Fayose, in a statement he personally signed, alleged that Makinde might have diverted the money for his presidential campaign. But he provided no evidence to support his claim.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde rebutted the N50 billion, saying he got only N30 billion and proceeded to explain how it was disbursed.

Makinde and Wike were members of the Group of Five Governors (G-Five) and Allies who supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023 against their party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

But, they now belong to different camps in the main opposition party and hold contrasting views on its protracted leadership crisis.

While Fayose belongs to the Wike/Anyanwu faction, which is rooting for the second term ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo governor is the arrowhead of the Saminu Turaki faction.

Speculations are rife that Makinde is eyeing the PDP presidential ticket.

Fayose said: “Two days ago, I said on a national television that Oyo State under Governor Seyi Makinde got a sum of N50bn from the Federal Government as intervention on the January 2024 explosion in Ibadan.

“Yesterday, the governor responded by asking me to provide evidence that he received such money, and here is the evidence he asked for.

“Meanwhile, only N4.5bn was released to victims of the Ibadan explosion. Rather, he diverted this fund and many others to his presidential ambition, which is the reason for the crisis in the PDP and his attacks on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government.

Read Also: BREAKING: Ibadan explosion: Fayose releases documents, insists Makinde got N50bn from FG

“Even though it is not in my character to go public with official government documents, I had to do this so that Nigerians will know who is saying the truth, and who has not been sincere with the people of Oyo State.

Most importantly, if as a governor, you have elected to go on national television to disclose part of what transpired in private meetings you had with the President, it becomes the duty of well-meaning Nigerians to give full disclosure.

“Lastly, I challenge Governor Seyi Makinde to sue me on this. Let me also tell him that there are proofs of other intervention funds received from Tinubu’s administration by the Oyo State Government, which the governor refused to disclose to the people.

“Also, there are documentary evidences on the actual Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Oyo State, as against Governor Makinde’s claim. But we will keep our gunpowder dry for now.”

Makinde got only N30b,says aide

Olanrewaju denied the allegation by Fayose that his principal got N50billion, saying that it is misleading and deliberately disingenuous.

He also denied insinuations that the governor has been silent about the fund and saving it with an intention to spend it on his political ambition.

Olanrewaju said since Makinde did not know the amount received from the Federal Government, Fayose could not provide evidence on the disbursement when asked to do so.

However, the media aide clarified that N30billion was released out of the requested sum, adding that the balance of N20billion was trapped due to request for inducement.

He did not name those officials who requested for inducement.

Olanrewaju said: “Recent comments attributed to former Governor Ayodele Fayose, alleging that the Federal Government handed N50billion to Seyi Makinde and that the governor chose to stay silent while saving up the money to support his presidential ambition are not only misleading, they are deliberately disingenuous.

“Let us be clear from the outset. The Federal Government did not give Governor Makinde N50billion. This is why Fayose was unable to provide evidence to show the disbursement when asked to do so. In fact, the memo he shared shows what was not disbursed.

What exists on record is a request and a promise, not a disbursement of N50billion.

“In the immediate aftermath of the tragic January 2024 Bodija explosion, which claimed lives, destroyed homes, and traumatised an entire community, President Bola Tinubu did not visit Oyo State.

“Governor Makinde travelled to Abuja personally, armed with a comprehensive report of the incident and a formal request for support from the Federal Government. Following that engagement, the Federal Government promised a N50billion support package.

“A promise, however, is not a release. When it was time to act, only N30billion was released.

“Was the Governor expected to convene a press conference to announce that the Federal Government had promised N50 billion, released N30 billion, and was withholding N20 billion? Or to publicly litigate negotiations around a national tragedy?

“What matters is what was done with the fund that was released.

“To be clear, Governor Makinde did acknowledge Federal Government support during the inauguration of a transparent committee set up to oversee the disbursement of relief funds. That committee ensured accountability, compassion, and proper use of the funds.

“Of the N30 billion released, some money was transferred directly to victims as immediate support. Whilst the remainder was deployed for rebuilding and restoration.

“Roads within the affected axis were repaired, reconstruction is ongoing, and a planned memorial at ground zero will honour the lives lost. Policies and security architecture have also been upgraded and strengthened to ensure that such an incident does not recur in Oyo State.

“It is important to underline this point. The N4.5 billion often quoted as announced by the Oyo State government refers to direct support to victims. This represents 15 percent of the total sum released. Governor Makinde found a way of giving 15 percent back to landlords and even tenants as direct support in his usual show of empathy.

“The answer is not far-fetched. Governor Makinde recently stated, during a media chat, that he would not support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. This declaration carries weight because he supported him in 2023, a decision he has since openly said he regrets.

“His reason is equally clear: the growing attempt by the current administration and its allies to push Nigeria towards a one-party state. That declaration marked a turning point.”

December 29, 2025
NJC shortlists 28 for appointment as FHC judges

The Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) has shortlisted 28 lawyers for appointment as judges of the Federal High Court.

The shortlisted lawyers were among the 62 applicants who passed the computer-based test (CBT) conducted by the court for them.

The Nation learnt that the 34 others were dropped following the strict application of the screening process put in place by the leadership of the National Judicial Court (NJC).

In line with the new measure introduced by the NJC, the names of the 62 lawyers were published on September 17, inviting members of the public to submit feedback on the nominees’ integrity, reputation and suitability for judicial appointment.

The Nation also gathered that the FJSC dropped the 34 nominees after considering petitions and complaints from members of the public about the nominees.

Read Also: FHC judges begin two-week Easter vacation

The 28 shortlisted nominees are expected to face NJC’s interview panel on January 11 and 12, preparatory to the meeting of the NJC scheduled for January 13 and 14, where the successful candidates will be named.

Confirming the development, NJC’s spokesperson, Mrs. Kami Ogendegbe, told The Nation that the council would decide on successful candidates.

The NJC spokesperson said the NJC “is determined not to lower the entry point bar no matter who is involved”.

She stressed that transparency and judicial integrity have remained a top priority for the Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun-led leadership of the NJC.

December 29, 2025
Why Akume-Alia feud should be settled, by Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to resolve the feud between Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

Tinubu gave the promise yesterday in Makurdi at the wedding reception of the daughter of Msula Atoga Deborah and Samuel Akume, son of the SGF.

The president, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said Akume had paid his dues and there was no need for the discord with the governor.

He described the SGF as the longest-serving public servant in the contemporary history of Nigeria, adding that he has a moral obligation to wade in because what affects Benue would affect the entire North Central and Nigeria.

The president said Akume, as leader of the Northcentral and in Nigeria, has shown leadership, accommodation and a great deal of kind-heartedness.

He said: “Benue is too important for us to toy with. We cannot afford to allow the discord between the elder statesman, Sen. Akume and Govenor Alia to escalate.

“What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. If this relationship goes asunder, it is the people of Benue, Northcentral and Nigeria that will suffer.

Read ALso: Bishop Wale-Oke urges Tinubu to flush out ‘moles’ aiding insecurity

“Sen Akume has paid his dues. He is the longest-serving public servant in the contemporary history of this country.

“He was director of protocol, permanent secretary, two-time governor, three-time senator and minority leader of the Senate, minister and now SGF.

“This is why I used to call him a cat with nine lives. He installs governor, dethrones and puts another. He fell out with that one; he dethroned him and installed another one.”

He emphasised that he would not allow the relationship between Akume and the transformative governor to go asunder.

According to him, he has the moral obligation as a leader to reconcile the duo.

He commended the people of the state for voting massively for him in the 2023 presidential election instead of a northern or religious candidate.

“The 2023 election was the most divisive election ever in the history of our country. But Benue decided to go with the Nigerian candidate, not a religious or Northern candidate,” he said.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) to which both Akume and Alia belong has set up a committee to resolve the differences between the two political leaders.

The committee is chaired by House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

Akume, who thanked the president for honouring his family during their moment of celebration, also commended Alia for finding time out of his tight schedule to honour the invitation to witness the wedding of his son.

He assured the couple of his continuous support and prayers for them.

He congratulated the new couple and commended them for bringing joy and respect to their respective families, the state and the nation at large.

Sen. Jack Gyado said God blessed Akume with a good heart, a great family and good leadership qualities.

Executive Secretary, Nigeria/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Shippers Council Pius Akutah who chaired the occasion, congratulated the couples and prayed for them.

Guests at the event included serving and past ministers, senators, heads of government agencies among others.

They include Benue’s immediate past Governor Samuel Ortom, monarchs and others.

December 29, 2025
Airstrikes alone won’t end insecurity, expert warns

A security analyst at the University of Aberdeen, Onyedikachi Madueke, has warned that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity cannot be resolved through airpower alone.

He cautioned that while airstrikes may deliver short-term tactical gains, they risk triggering longer-term strategic setbacks if not embedded in a broader, people-centred security strategy.

Reacting to recent airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) targets in Sokoto State, Madueke said military force from the air may degrade militant capabilities temporarily, but is insufficient to address the complex drivers of violence across Nigeria.

“Nigeria’s insecurity will not be resolved through airpower alone,” Madueke stated in an article published yesterday by The Guardian of London.

He stressed that “airstrikes may yield short-term tactical gains, but they risk generating longer-term strategic setbacks.”

He noted that public reaction to the Sokoto airstrikes has been mixed.

While the justification for the strikes has been widely questioned, the operation itself has been broadly welcomed across religious, ethnic and social divides.

According to him, the strikes were framed in some quarters as a response to alleged genocidal attacks on Christians.

However, Nigerian authorities, he said, have consistently rejected this narrative, maintaining that armed groups do not target victims based on religion and that Christians and Muslims largely coexist peacefully.

Madueke noted that the framing itself has complicated the public understanding of the operation.

Sokoto, he explained, is the spiritual heartland of Islam in Nigeria, and armed violence in the area has disproportionately affected Muslim communities rather than Christians.

Read Also: Insecurity: President Tinubu recalibrates

“The geographic and operational focus of the strikes complicates the ‘Christian genocide’ framing,” he said.

He added that attacks against Christian farmers are more prevalent in north-central states such as Benue and Plateau, where violence is often linked to armed herder militias rather than jihadist groups.

He noted that the strikes targeted IS elements, not herder militias, raising questions about whether external actors fully grasp the local dynamics of violence in Nigeria’s different regions.

He said, despite early concerns shaped by memories of prolonged US military interventions in Libya, Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan, the Sokoto operation eased public anxiety because of its limited scope.

“The operation was a targeted precision strike, not a prolonged intervention,” Madueke observed.

According to Madueke, many Nigerians were prepared to accept almost any intervention that promised immediate relief as the strikes came at a time of widespread public fatigue with insecurity caused by insurgency, terrorism, banditry and communal violence.

The analyst said Nigeria’s security agencies are increasingly overstretched as terrorist networks become more interconnected across the Sahel and West Africa.

He pointed to persistent corruption, inadequate training and chronic equipment shortages as factors undermining counterinsurgency efforts.

“In some theatres, groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter factions now wield more sophisticated weaponry than state forces,” he said.

The federal government has confirmed that it endorsed the Sokoto operation.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar acknowledged that Nigeria provided intelligence support and remained in communication with U.S. forces until minutes before the strikes were executed.

This confirmation helped allay concerns about sovereignty and foreign military overreach.

However, Madueke warned that how such interventions are framed matters as much as the strikes themselves.

He cautioned that presenting the operation as a defence of persecuted Christians could strengthen extremist propaganda.

“Framing the intervention in religious terms risks reinforcing narratives of foreign ‘crusader’ aggression,” he said, noting that groups such as Isis-Sahel and emerging factions like Lakurawa “thrive on such symbolism,” which can attract funding, recruits and external support.

According to the analyst, a durable solution to Nigeria’s insecurity lies not in firepower but in tackling the structural drivers of violence.

“The sustainable path to peace lies in starving violence of its fuel,” Madueke said, pointing to deep socioeconomic inequality, desertification and climate stress, weak state presence in rural communities, porous borders and fragile security institutions.

He highlighted Sokoto’s high number of out-of-school children as a warning sign, arguing that strengthening state capacity to manage grievances, regulate competition over land and resources, and counter extremism remains Nigeria’s only viable long-term option.

“Military action can buy time, but only governance, development and institutional reform can buy peace,” he said.

December 29, 2025
Federal Govt, states take massive security steps

The Federal and state governments have intensified coordinated security measures.

They are rolling out community-based policing, forest guards, surveillance technology, inter-agency task forces and regional collaborations in a renewed push to curb banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

From the Northwest to the Southeast, Southsouth and Southwest, governors are deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies.

They are combining manpower expansion, intelligence gathering, welfare incentives and infrastructure investment to reassure citizens and reclaim unsafe spaces.

At the federal level, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has launched a nationwide Forest Guards Initiative to deny criminal groups sanctuary in Nigeria’s vast forest belts.

Over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards have graduated from an intensive three-month training programme across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara and Kebbi states.

The programme integrates environmental protection with national security objectives, focusing on endurance training, tactical fieldcraft, patrol simulations, ambush response and rescue operations, alongside strict adherence to human rights and international humanitarian law.

NSA Nuhu Ribadu said the initiative followed a national security emergency declared by President Tinubu, directing security agencies to recruit additional personnel to strengthen internal security and reclaim ungoverned spaces.

In the Northwest, governors have adopted a regional approach.

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, chairman of the Northwest Governors’ Forum, said the governors of Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi had resolved to take “full ownership” of regional security.

Speaking at the graduation of 2,000 Kano Neighbourhood Watch Corps (NWC) personnel, Radda said security “goes beyond state boundaries,” stressing that protection of lives and property is a shared responsibility.

Read Also: Burna Boy, VDM visit Kirikiri maximum security custodial centre

Katsina alone, he said, has deployed 6,696 trained community security personnel, backed with over 1,600 motorcycles, 102 Hilux patrol vehicles, 21 armoured personnel carriers, 1,500 tactical kits and 2,750 rifles.

In Kano, Governor Abba Yusuf has formally launched the NWC, approving N484 million for logistics, including 300 motorcycles and 88 Hilux vehicles, while boosting the Joint Task Force with additional vehicles.

Kano has also enacted a Neighbourhood Watch Law and moved to absorb NWC personnel into the civil service to ensure career stability.

Kaduna State has adopted a multi-layered approach under Governor Uba Sani, reforming the Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVS), recruiting 7,000 additional personnel, strengthening intelligence-sharing and institutionalising the Kaduna Peace Model for early warning, dialogue and conflict prevention.

In Jigawa, Governor Umar Namadi has engaged nearly 10,000 youths under a cooperative security scheme linking private security firms to schools and health facilities.

The state also unveiled a N342 million Safe Schools Rapid Response Coordination Centre, equipped with surveillance technology, patrol vehicles and motorcycles to protect educational institutions.

In Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has recruited forest guards and reactivated the National Forest Guard in collaboration with the Federal Government.

About 979 guards, drawn from nine security-prone local governments, have been trained, with welfare packages including healthcare insurance and mobility support.

Nasarawa State Commissioner for Security, Usman Baba, said the state has fortified schools and communities through expanded emergency security meetings, collaboration with vigilantes and neighbourhood watch groups, and sustained support for conventional security agencies.

In Yobe State, the government has sustained the recruitment of over 3,000 volunteer fighters, known as the Yobe Vigilante Peace Group, who work alongside the military.

The state provides generous welfare packages, including free healthcare for fighters and their families, stipends, compensation for injuries and support for families of deceased volunteers.

Similarly, Adamawa State has deployed 987 trained forest guards, with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri charging them to act professionally and respect human rights. The initiative is coordinated with ONSA and forms part of the national forest security framework.

In the Southeast, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has reinforced security through joint patrols, reorganised checkpoints and strengthened community vigilance.

The state relies on over 2,600 Agunechemba and community vigilante members, supported by a joint security outfit, Operation Udo Ga Achi, involving the military, police and paramilitary agencies.

In Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah has invested heavily in technology, inaugurating drones, patrol vehicles and an AI-enabled Command and Control Centre linked to surveillance cameras.

The state claims these measures have contributed to an over 80 per cent reduction in violent crime, alongside dismantling kidnappers’ dens and sustaining the Enugu State Security Trust Fund.

Abia State, under Governor Alex Otti, has adopted a mix of enforcement and regional collaboration, dismantling criminal enclaves, fencing flashpoint markets and working with neighbouring states, particularly Imo, to secure major highways. The state has also donated vehicles to security agencies to enhance mobility.

In Akwa Ibom, Governor Umo Eno has prioritised security through a dedicated Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, headed by a retired general, and a state-owned Ibom Community Watch operating across the 31 local governments. The state has provided patrol vehicles and gunboats to secure both land and waterways.

Bayelsa State operates a 607-strong Community Security Corps, consolidating multiple vigilante groups into one structure to support police operations at strategic locations statewide.

In Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is recruiting 500 additional Amotekun officers, commissioning new command and control facilities, deploying forest guards and establishing ranger camps to secure reserves and border communities. Joint patrols have been intensified to prevent cross-border criminal infiltration.

December 29, 2025
Tinubu in Europe enroute business summit in Abu Dhabi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in Europe in continuation his end-of-year break and in preparation for an official engagement in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

He left Lagos yesterday.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President will proceed from Europe to Abu Dhabi for the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026), billed for January 11-17 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

President Tinubu was invited to the summit by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Emirates.

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According to the statement, the ADSW is a weeklong global platform that convenes leaders from government, business and civil society to advance conversations and actions on sustainable development.

The summit provides a forum for mobilising ideas, partnerships and investments aimed at shaping the next phase of global sustainability efforts.

Next year’s edition of the summit will be held under the theme “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, focusing on linking ambition with practical action across innovation, finance and people, while showcasing pathways for countries and institutions to move forward with confidence in a rapidly evolving global environment.

President Tinubu is expected back to Nigeria after the conclusion of the summit.

December 29, 2025