The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Turkey detains 115 IS suspects for allegedly plotting holiday attacks

    Turkey detains 115 IS suspects for allegedly plotting holiday attacks

    Turkish police have detained 115 suspected members of the Islamic State extremist group in nationwide raids over alleged plans to carry out attacks during the Christmas and New Year period, state media reported on Thursday.

    A total of 137 are sought for arrest, according to state broadcaster TRT. Turkey issued international arrest warrants for the remaining suspects at large, the report said.

    The operation, led by Istanbul counterterrorism units, followed intelligence that IS-linked elements were planning strikes against non-Muslim individuals and holiday gatherings, TRT wrote.

    Read Also: Trump threatens further strikes if ISIS attack persists

    Police seized pistols and documents during searches of multiple addresses.

    Investigators said the suspects were in contact with operatives in active conflict zones, according to the report.

    Turkey regularly carries out operations against alleged Islamic State (ISIL) networks operating in the country.

    The group claimed responsibility for a 2017 attack on an Istanbul nightclub during New Year’s Eve celebrations that killed 39 people.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Christmas: Kogi lawmaker Abejide distributes food, palliatives in Yagba

    Christmas: Kogi lawmaker Abejide distributes food, palliatives in Yagba

    • …promises N710m community support in 2026

    Food items and other palliatives have been distributed to widows and less privileged residents of Yagba East, Yagba West and Mopamuro Federal Constituency in Kogi State by the member representing the area, Hon. Leke Abejide, to mark the Christmas and New Year festivities.

    The distribution formed part of Abejide’s annual humanitarian intervention aimed at supporting widows and vulnerable constituents during the festive season.

    A statement issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Bashiru Abdul Mohammed, said the initiative has been sustained for the past nine years.

    According to the statement, the exercise will cover all the 34 wards and polling units across Yagba Federal Constituency to ensure residents have food items to celebrate the season.

    Abejide said the distribution of food items has become a regular gesture, noting that it is designed to reach every ward and polling unit across the constituency so that people can celebrate Christmas and the New Year.

    He explained that items earmarked for this year’s distribution include 24,000 bags of 5kg rice, 10,000 packs of 2kg garri, 10,000 six-yard wrappers for widows, as well as salt, sugar and noodles.

    Read Also: Christmas: Adeboye describes Jesus as priceless gift

    The lawmaker said the initiative was driven by his passion for philanthropy and his commitment to showing genuine care for widows, especially during the festive period, in line with moral and religious teachings.

    Abejide also announced a review of his earlier pledge to support autonomous communities across the constituency. He recalled that he had previously promised to provide ₦5 million to each of the 71 autonomous communities but was unable to fulfil the pledge due to the demands of his governorship ambition at the time.

    According to him, the pledge has now been reviewed upward, with a commitment to disburse ₦10 million each to the 71 autonomous communities to support community-based projects.

    “By 2026, all the autonomous communities in Yagba Federal Constituency will benefit. A total of ₦710 million will be disbursed to support community development projects,” he said.

    The lawmaker thereafter formally flagged off the distribution exercise and urged those handling the process to ensure that the items reach all wards and polling units, particularly widows and other deserving beneficiaries across the constituency.

  • Tax laws: We will undertake corrective measures where necessary – Reps

    Tax laws: We will undertake corrective measures where necessary – Reps

    The House of Representatives has said that appropriate corrective measures will be taken in accordance with the law and established parliamentary conventions regarding the tax laws where procedural or administrative refinements are identified.

    Spokesman of the House, Akintunde Rotimi, said in a statement that the leadership of the National Assembly has directed the Clerk to re-gazette the four tax laws passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

    Rotimi assured Nigerians that the parliament was undertaking a review of the four laws in line with established parliamentary procedures and the 1999 constitution as amended.

    The statement reads, “Recent public commentary has focused on the legislative process relating to the passage, presidential assent, and publication in the Official Gazette of the Federal Government of the following Acts: the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025; the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025; the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025; and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025.

    “The commentary has raised issues concerning the harmonisation of Bills passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives, the documentation transmitted for Presidential assent, and the versions of the Acts subsequently published in the Official Gazette.

    “The House of Representatives wishes to assure the public that these matters are being addressed strictly within the constitutional and statutory remit of the National Assembly. Only last week, the House constituted a seven-man Ad Hoc Committee on the matter after an Honourable Member raised it under a Point of Order (Privileges). 

    “The Ad Hoc Committee, alongside other relevant Committees of the National Assembly, working in collaboration with the Management of the National Assembly, is undertaking an institutional review to establish the sequence of events and to identify any factors that may have contributed to the circumstances surrounding the legislative and administrative handling of the Acts. 

    Read Also: CITN expresses concerns over alleged variations in Tax Act

    “This includes a careful examination of any lapses, irregularities, or external interferences, should any be established. The review is being conducted in full conformity with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Acts Authentication Act, Cap. A4, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, the Standing Orders of both Chambers, and established parliamentary practice.

    “In the course of this review, and in the interest of clarity, accuracy, and the integrity of the legislative record, the leadership of the National Assembly, under the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, has directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to re-gazette the Acts and issue Certified True Copies of the versions duly passed by both Chambers of the National Assembly. 

    “This administrative step is intended solely to authenticate and accurately reflect the legislative decisions of the National Assembly.

    “This review is strictly confined to institutional processes and procedures. It does not constitute, imply, or concede any defect in the exercise of legislative authority by the House of Representatives or the Senate. 

    “It is undertaken without prejudice to the powers, functions, or actions of any other arm or agency of government, and without prejudice to any rights, obligations, or legal processes arising under the Constitution or any other applicable law.

    “The House of Representatives, under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, remains firmly committed to the principles of constitutionalism, separation of powers, due process, and the supremacy of the rule of law. 

    “Where procedural or administrative refinements are identified, appropriate corrective measures will be taken in accordance with the law and established parliamentary conventions.

    “Members of the public are respectfully urged to allow the National Assembly’s institutional processes to proceed without speculation or conjecture. The leadership of the House of Representatives remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the faithful discharge of its constitutional responsibility as custodian of the legislative authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

  • Christmas: Adeboye describes Jesus as priceless gift

    Christmas: Adeboye describes Jesus as priceless gift

    • …assures Nigerians of God’s favour in 2026

    The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called on Nigerians to fully embrace Jesus Christ, describing Him as the only gift without limitation.

    Adeboye made the call at the Christmas Party with Daddy G.O organised by RCCG Regions 1, 36 and 52, held at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

    Speaking at the event, tagged The Priceless Gift, the cleric said God has given the world the ultimate and priceless gift in His Son, adding that accepting Christ opens the door to numerous blessings.

    He said the only gift without limitation is the gift of the Lord Jesus Christ, urging everyone to accept Him as Lord and Saviour so that blessings such as healing, victory, favour, breakthrough and prosperity can be released in their lives.

    Adeboye assured believers that by the coming year, those trusting God for divine intervention would have their prayers answered.

    According to him, healing is one of the blessings of Jesus, noting that those who are sick will receive healing, while those facing opposition will enjoy victory over their enemies.

    He further urged Nigerians to live lives that reflect the character of Christ, stressing that Jesus came to save mankind from sin.

    Adeboye said Nigerians should not only accept Christ in words but also in actions, adding that believers must be truthful, holy, merciful and compassionate, just as Christ is.

    He lamented that many people profess faith without living it out in their daily conduct, urging a renewed commitment to godly living.

    Reflecting on the outgoing year, he noted that many did not serve God as they ought to, calling on Nigerians to praise God more, live holy lives, love one another and stand against all forms of vices in the coming year.

    He assured that whatever the nation has lost would be restored for those who align their lives with Christ.

  • Trump threatens further strikes if ISIS attack persists

    Trump threatens further strikes if ISIS attack persists

    United States President Donald Trump has warned that American forces will carry out additional military strikes if Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists continue attacks against Christians in Nigeria.

    Trump said he personally authorised recent airstrikes against ISIS fighters operating in Nigeria’s North-West, describing the operation as decisive and deadly.

    The U.S. president made the disclosure on Thursday via his Truth Social account, where he confirmed that American forces launched what he called “numerous perfect strikes” on ISIS elements in the region.

    “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries,” Trump wrote.

    He explained that the strikes followed earlier warnings issued to the terrorist group, stressing that the United States would not tolerate continued violence against Christians.

    “I have previously warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was,” he said.

    Trump added that the operation was carried out with precision by the U.S. Department of War, reaffirming Washington’s commitment to fighting radical Islamic terrorism.

    “The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing. Under my leadership, our country will not allow radical Islamic terrorism to prosper,” he stated.

    Read Also: Nigeria, U.S. hit terrorists in Sokoto

    In a Christmas message underscoring his warning, Trump said further military action would follow if the killings persist.

    “May God bless our military, and Merry Christmas to all, including the dead terrorists—of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues,” he added.

    Reacting to the development, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the operation sent a strong signal to ISIS while acknowledging Nigeria’s cooperation.

    “The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end,” Hegseth wrote on X. “The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight—on Christmas. Grateful for Nigerian government support and cooperation. Merry Christmas!”

    Meanwhile, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed that several ISIS fighters were killed during the operation in Sokoto State.

    “At the direction of the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, and in coordination with Nigerian authorities, U.S. Africa Command conducted strikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025, in Sokoto State,” AFRICOM said in a statement posted on X.

    The development signals a significant escalation of U.S. military action against ISIS-linked groups operating in Nigeria, amid growing cooperation between American forces and Nigerian security agencies.

  • Christmas: Bamidele urges Nigerians to embrace peace, national cohesion

    Christmas: Bamidele urges Nigerians to embrace peace, national cohesion

    Senate leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a moment of sober reflection and renewed commitment to peace, unity and national reconciliation, saying the message of Christ’s birth remains relevant to the country’s present challenges.

    In a Christmas message issued on December 25, Bamidele said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises hope in times of despair, peace amid turbulence and deliverance from forces that threaten human harmony. 

    He urged citizens to go beyond festive celebrations by embracing the values of love, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence in their daily lives.

    According to him, Christmas offers another opportunity for Nigerians, Christians and Muslims alike to reflect on the state of the nation and the wellbeing of its people, stressing that violence cannot be a solution to collective or personal grievances.

    Read Also: Larry J shuts down Eko Hotel for Christmas show

    “Regardless of the faith we profess, Christ’s love offers an eternal message that binds broken hearts, heals deep wounds and reconciles estranged brothers,” the Senate Leader said. “It is a message that speaks to national cohesion, rebirth and stability.”

    Bamidele noted that the teachings of Christ provide a unifying moral compass capable of calming tensions, discouraging rebellion and fostering enduring reconciliation across religious and ethnic divides. 

    He described the message as timeless and universal, suitable for both peace and conflict situations, and relevant to all humanity.

    He charged Nigerians to become ambassadors of peace rather than violence, harmony rather than division, and goodwill rather than hate speech, arguing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.

    “Only within such an ambience can our nation attain sustainable development, record economic growth and enable citizens to pursue their aspirations without hindrance,” he said, adding that peace inspired by love is essential for effective governance at both national and sub-national levels.

    Bamidele wished Nigerians a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, expressing cautious optimism for a more peaceful and united country in the year ahead.

  • No ‘wack artist’ in music industry – 2baba

    No ‘wack artist’ in music industry – 2baba

    Renowned singer, 2Baba, has claimed that there is no such thing as a “wack artist” in the music industry.

    Speaking in a recent video message, the African Queen crooner argued that every music is tailored-made to evoke emotions and create a spirit, and acceptance is largely dependent on promotion and commercial strategies.

    According to 2Baba, “Every music is tailored to evoke an emotion, to create a spirit. There is nothing like a wack artist.

    “That is why many of the so-called wack artists are more bankable than the talented ones. Because they understand that it is not the art itself, it is the marketing of that art”.

    He emphasised that talent alone is not enough, stating, “No matter how talented you are or how sweet your music is, there is no music that everybody likes. Everything is narrowed down to the marketing, promotion and the business. It is only those who resonate with your music that will like.”

  • FG confirms US–Nigeria joint airstrikes on ISIS targets in Sokoto

    FG confirms US–Nigeria joint airstrikes on ISIS targets in Sokoto

    The federal government has confirmed that recent United States airstrikes on ISIS targets in Sokoto State were carried out in collaboration with Nigerian security agencies.

    In a statement on Friday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the coordinated operation followed established international practice and bilateral understandings between Nigeria and the United States.

    Ebienfa explained that the cooperation covers intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support that align with international law, respect for national sovereignty and shared commitments to regional and global security.

    The statement read, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism. This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.  

    “In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.

    “Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity. Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.

    “The Federal Government continues to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while strengthening Nigeria’s own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through appropriate official channels.”

  • How Deal or No Deal Gave John Fashanu a Second Act in Nigeria

    How Deal or No Deal Gave John Fashanu a Second Act in Nigeria

    Deal or No Deal is one of television’s great global success stories. Built on the simple but agonizing question of what cash prize is hidden inside a sealed box, the format spread to more than 80 countries and territories. In Nigeria, when the show launched in 2007, it became something more. It was the moment former footballer and UK gameshow host John Fashanu found a defining second act in his television career.

    Initially airing on M-Net Africa every Saturday evening, the Nigerian edition launched on 7 July and quickly found its footing with audiences. Hosted by Fashanu — who relocated to Nigeria after his long-running stint on British TV institution Gladiators came to an end — the show marked a deliberate shift in his career, from familiar UK Saturday-night television to a new audience and a new chapter abroad.

    Fashanu Discovers New Career Calling

    For many Nigerian viewers, Deal or No Deal was their first encounter with Fashanu. Having already enjoyed fame in the UK through football and his time as a TV personality, Fashanu embraced Nigeria not just as a workplace but as a home, remaining in the country for many years after his British presenting career wound down.

    His easy rapport with contestants and visible emotional investment in their wins helped cement his popularity, turning Deal or No Deal Nigeria into a special moment in the country’s TV history and the chapter that made Fashanu a household name in the country.

    Speaking to The Guardian in 2020, Fashanu reflected on the impact the show had on him personally, admitting he still watched episodes back because it was “impossible to not get emotional”. He described the gameshow as one of his favorite jobs outside football, not just for its popularity, but because it allowed him to connect with people and remain culturally relevant long after his UK television career had naturally slowed.

    At the time, he spoke about how Nigeria had become his second home – his father had been born in the country before moving to the UK to practice law. Indeed, the country has enabled Fashanu to reinvent himself. “I love presenting Nigeria’s Deal or No Deal,” he said.

    The gameshow’s appeal is undoubted. In markets as diverse as the UK, USA, Australia, and across Africa and Asia, episodes routinely pull in millions of viewers, with peak audiences in some regions reaching almost 14 million. Many syndications have maintained long multi-year runs that have embedded the show into mainstream viewing culture.

    That level of familiarity helped the format spill into other forms of entertainment. In England, for example, where Fashanu was born, there are popular internet bingo UK titles in which players try to beat the banker in an innovative bingo-themed adaptation. There are also licensed slots and Slingo games inspired by the show.

    A Personal Triumph

    For Fashanu, that global reach mattered on a personal level: the same format that inspired contestants, brought drama to living rooms, and influenced countless spin-offs, also helped him reinvent himself in Nigeria, proving that Deal or No Deal didn’t just create television moments, it also created lasting careers.

  • Adeboye, wife extend Christmas blessings to Nigerians

    Adeboye, wife extend Christmas blessings to Nigerians

    General overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye and his wife have released a Christmas message, wishing believers a joyous celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

    In their message on X, they expressed gratitude to God for preserving individuals through the past year and ushering them into a new one.

    The couple prayed for a year of glory, free from shame, distress, failure, sickness, and pain.

    They also wished for joy, peace, good health, success, progress, and breakthroughs to abound in the lives of believers.

    Their message emphasised the importance of having a renewed hunger for God, the anointing to do exploits, and the wisdom and grace to walk in His purpose.

    They prayed that only good news would be heard from and concerning believers, now and throughout the year.

    The statement reads: “Beloved, as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, we give thanks to God: the Alpha and the Omega, for preserving you through the passing year and bringing you into a new one. May this season usher you into a year of glory, where every form of shame, distress, failure, sickness, and pain is far from you.

    “We pray that joy, peace, good health, success, progress, and breakthroughs abound in your life. May you be filled with a renewed hunger for God, the anointing to do exploits, and the wisdom and grace to walk in His purpose. May only good news be heard from you and concerning you, now and throughout the year.

    “As we celebrate Christmas and look forward with hope, may you be found ready, steadfast, and faithful in Christ”.