The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Fed govt reaffirms resolve to defeat insecurity, seeks stronger global support

    Fed govt reaffirms resolve to defeat insecurity, seeks stronger global support

    • …Akume receives Charismatic Bishops Conference delegation

    The federal government has restated its unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity, urging regional and international partners to deepen collaboration in the ongoing fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

    Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made the appeal on Thursday when he received a high-powered delegation of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its President, Archbishop Prof. Leonard Bature Kawas, in his office in Abuja.

    According to a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the SGF, Segun Imohiosen, Akume said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains fully committed to securing the lives and property of Nigerians, noting that security institutions are being strengthened while partnerships are being expanded both within and outside the country.

    “But the government is seriously committed to eradicating insecurity… We need support from our allies to be able to fight terrorists in the land,” the SGF said, calling for intensified international collaboration to contain emerging threats.

    He welcomed the vote of confidence passed on the administration by the CBCN, describing it as further validation of the President’s efforts to stabilise the nation and address longstanding security challenges.

    Senator Akume added that the Federal Government has continued to deepen engagements with traditional rulers, business leaders, the private sector, political actors, and religious bodies to build “a strong and virile Nigeria for all.”

    He urged religious organisations to sustain prayers for peace, unity, and national prosperity.

    Earlier, Archbishop Kawas reaffirmed the Conference’s commitment to supporting the Tinubu administration’s quest to restore security nationwide.

    He said the bishops would continue to pray for peace and unity, while backing ongoing government efforts to protect citizens and strengthen social cohesion.

    The SGF praised the delegation for its solidarity and assured them of the government’s determination to overcome insecurity and reposition Nigeria on the path of lasting stability.

  • Insecurity: Aiyedatiwa approves recruitment of 500 new Amotekun personnel

    Insecurity: Aiyedatiwa approves recruitment of 500 new Amotekun personnel

    • …inaugurates 130 new justices of the peace

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the recruitment of 500 new personnel into the State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture amid rising national security challenges.

    The governor announced the approval on Friday during the inauguration of a new cohort of Justices of the Peace (JPs) held in Akure, the state capital.

    Aiyedatiwa explained that after nearly 17 years of inactivity, his administration decided to revive the office of the JPs to give citizens a more active role in local justice delivery.

    The Nation reports that a total of 130 appointees, drawn from various sectors, were sworn in to reflect the diversity and inclusiveness central to his grassroots justice reform agenda.

    Describing the ceremony as a turning point in reinforcing justice at the grassroots, the governor said the initiative aligns with the “Order, Security and the Rule of Law” pillar of his administration’s OUR EASE agenda.

    Aiyedatiwa urged the new JPs to help enhance security, peace, and justice in their communities, reminding them that the office is a “sacred responsibility” requiring integrity, wisdom, and fairness.

    He also highlighted ongoing judicial reforms in the state, including the recruitment of additional state counsels, expansion of the judiciary, and the near completion of a new Judiciary Complex featuring a ceremonial court, modular courts, and a library intended to fast-track justice delivery.

    In his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, traced the origin of the JP institution to 14th-century England and its evolution in Nigeria during the colonial era.

    He noted that Ondo state last appointed JPs in 2008, describing the office as a crucial link between government and the people.

    Ajulo added that the new appointees were selected based on merit, moral standing, humility, and commitment to peace.

    The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Olusegun Odusola, represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath of office and outlined the statutory duties of JPs.

    He described the office as both legal and quasi-judicial, detailing responsibilities that include mediating disputes, maintaining public order, administering oaths, visiting detention facilities, inspecting conditions, handling detainees’ complaints, certifying documents, and supporting official processes such as visa and passport applications.

    Justice Odusola further charged the appointees to contribute to local policing, mentor youth groups, advise community leaders, and help prevent disputes before they escalate.

    Responding on behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ’Seinde Arogbofa expressed gratitude to the state government, acknowledging the significance of their roles in promoting justice and peace.

    He pledged the commitment of the new JPs to advancing grassroots engagement and supporting the judiciary while also calling for inclusivity, especially recognising contributions from rural communities.

    Prominent individuals inaugurated as JPs include the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; top traditional rulers such as the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo.

    Others include key security chiefs in the state – the Commissioner of Police, the State Commander of Amotekun, the Comptroller of Immigration, the NSCDC State Commandant, and the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade – as well as diplomats, clergy, community leaders, and other distinguished personalities.

  • Police dismantle kidnapping, robbery syndicates in Imo, arrest 10 suspects

    Police dismantle kidnapping, robbery syndicates in Imo, arrest 10 suspects

    The Imo State Police Command has arrested more than ten suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related activities in various parts of the state.

    In a series of coordinated operations carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, police operatives dismantled multiple criminal syndicates, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered an assortment of weapons, including three pump-action guns, two AK-47 rifles, a locally made pistol, 31 rounds of ammunition, and 37 live cartridges.

    Among those apprehended were Odinaka Ekwebelem, Ejike Sunday, and Chinedu Duru, who allegedly abducted a young man at Faith Glorious Assembly Church, Awo-Omamma, on November 16, 2025.

    Two assault rifles were recovered from them.

    Police spokesman Henry Okoye confirmed the arrests and added that operatives also detained 26-year-old Frank Onyemaechi and his 24-year-old wife, Chidimma, after disturbing images of victims were found on their phone, and they attempted to conceal a weapon.

    Read Also: FCC boss Oladele lauds Tinubu’s massive police, Army recruitment drive

    “A locally made pistol was also recovered, and his wife, Chidimma, was trying to hide the weapon when she was arrested,” he said

    He said that in another operation, two robbery suspects, Okon Uket, 25, and Uzoma Ezugo, 25, were arrested while one driver was tragically killed during a shootout with the police in Ohaji LGA.

    Speaking further, Okoye said   three suspects who confessed to being members of the NBM cult group were arrested in Nchoko, Oru-East,

    He said that the suspects would be arraigned in court after completing the investigations.

  • Osun 2026: Omisore, Oyebamiji, eight others jostle for APC guber ticket

    Osun 2026: Omisore, Oyebamiji, eight others jostle for APC guber ticket

    …party rakes in N450m from sales of nomination forms

    Ahead of the December 13, 2025, All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election, former National Secretary of the party, Senator Iyiola Omisore, and eight other aspirants have entered the race for the party’s ticket for the August 8, 2026, Osun State Governorship Election.

    At the close of sales of nomination and expression of interest forms on Thursday night, nine aspirants, eight men and one woman had obtained the forms.

    Those in the race include former deputy governor Senator Iyiola Omisore; development financier Babatunde Hareter Oralusi; former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji; former PDP chieftain, Bar. Oyedotun Babayemi, and the immediate past deputy governor, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi.

    Others are business magnate and insurance expert Dr. Akinade Akanmu Ogunbiyi; Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adegoke Rasheed Okiki Adekunle; the only female aspirant and former Osun lawmaker Dr. Mulikat Abiola Jimoh; and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs, Senator Babajide Omoworare.

    Read Also: Lagos APC lauds Tinubu’s security emergency declaration

    According to the timetable released by the APC National Organizing Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Muhammad Arugungu, aspirants must submit their completed forms and required documents by Monday, December 1, 2025.

    Screening will be conducted in Abuja on December 3 and 4, while the results would be published on December 5, followed by a screening appeal on December 6.

    The primary election will hold on December 13.

    The Nation gathered that party leaders and key stakeholders are scheduled to meet on Saturday to discuss the possibility of adopting a consensus candidate ahead of the 2026 governorship poll.

    However, a party chieftain, who spoke in confidence, criticised the move, saying the meeting was coming too late.

    “What happened to the previous meetings? The aspirants were never informed of the outcome. The leaders allowed aspirants to purchase forms, and now they are trying to push for consensus. If we truly want to reclaim the state, the party should allow a primary election. Whoever wins should be supported by others,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the APC has realised N450 million from the sale of forms to the nine aspirants.

    Eight male aspirants paid N50 million each, while the only female aspirant paid N10 million for the expression of interest form, in line with the party’s free nomination policy for women and youths under 40.

  • Balami, Zulum meet in Maiduguri, announce scholarships for Borno youths

    Balami, Zulum meet in Maiduguri, announce scholarships for Borno youths

    The Founder of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Comrade Isaac Balami, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to Borno Governor Babagana Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri, where both parties announced new scholarship opportunities for youths in the state.

    Balami, who described the visit as a “homecoming,” said he returned to brief the Governor on the progress of IBUAM and explore ways the institution could impact young people in Borno.

     He was accompanied by the university’s Vice Chancellor, board members, friends, and partners.

    Speaking after the meeting, Balami said the engagement with Governor Zulum was “deeply personal,” recalling how a scholarship from the Borno State Government years ago opened doors that shaped his career in aviation.

    “This visit wasn’t just official; it was personal. I returned as a son of the land with a mission shaped by memory and conviction,” Balami said. “Education changed my life, and I am driven by the responsibility to extend that same lifeline to others.”

    Balami also announced fresh scholarships for indigent youths, pledging that at least 54 young people from Borno would be sponsored to study at IBUAM.

    He commended Governor Zulum for what he described as sincere discussions about the future of Borno youths, saying the governor demonstrated genuine commitment to supporting young people with high potential but limited resources.

    Zulum, in what many residents described as a remarkable response, also approved immediate scholarship slots for 54 indigent youths to undertake degree programmes in piloting, aeronautical engineering, and related fields at the university.

    Read Also: Zulum: worst of Boko Haram insurgency over

    Also in a statement on X and Facebook, the Governor applauded Balami’s vision and assured him of the State Government’s full cooperation. 

    The Governor also announced an immediate state-sponsored scholarship scheme for qualified youths to pursue degree programmes in piloting, aeronautical engineering, and related fields at IBUAM.

    “The selection process will prioritise indigent youths who demonstrate academic potential but lack the financial means to pursue such expensive programmes,” Zulum said.

    He directed the Commissioner for Education and the Executive Secretary of the State Scholarship Board to work directly with IBUAM to begin the selection and placement of candidates. He also warned against political interference in the process.

    “I don’t want anyone close to the governor, the deputy governor, or commissioners selected. The process should be purely on merit, and I will personally vet the final list,” the governor added.

    While thanking president Tinubu for approving a university instituted by his own “son”, the governor said the president has displayed his love for the nation by approving a university that will benefit all, especially young people. 

    Both the State Government and IBUAM say the partnership will help build a new generation of aircraft engineers, pilots, and aviation technicians from Borno State.

  • Lagos assures NAHCON of meeting Dec 5 deadline remittance of Hajj fares

    Lagos assures NAHCON of meeting Dec 5 deadline remittance of Hajj fares

    The Lagos State Government has assured the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) that it would meet the December 5 deadline for remittance of the fares for next year’s Hajj exercise.

    The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, while receiving NAHCON officials led by the National Commissioner South West, Dr. Tajudeen Oladejo Abefe.

    Layode stated that the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has intensified efforts to get more patronage to surpass the 1,500 slots allocated to the state by NAHCON, saying that the directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the reduction of the Hajj fare has further encouraged more intending pilgrims to apply for the exercise.

    Speaking on the money paid on behalf of the 93 intending pilgrims who were denied visas during the 2025 exercise, Layode told the NAHCON officials that the money has not been refunded, stressing that the state had written a letter of intention to retain the slots for the 2026 exercise.

    He, therefore, urged them to assist the state in this regard.

    He assured the visitors that with the support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Kadri Hamzat, the state would make the necessary remittances before the deadline to make the performance of the spiritual exercise seamless for her intending pilgrims.

    Speaking earlier, the NAHCON National Commissioner said they were in Lagos to discuss with the state with respect to the deadline for remittance of the Hajj fares.

    Dr Abefe said that in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, NAHCON reduced the Hajj fare from N8,784,085.59k to N7,991.141.76k, thereby saving every intending pilgrim a sum of N792,943.83k.

    He, however, said that despite the reduction, there is still the critical challenge of time constraints. He affirmed that December 5 is the actual date that the Saudi authorities expect every payment to drop into its International Bank Account Number (IBAN), and the date is non-negotiable.

    He stated that in the past, Saudi Arabia usually considered Nigeria’s request for extension of deadlines, but this time around, the situation is no longer the same, as the country has made it clear that it will not bend the rules for anyone.

    Dr. Abefe stated that in view of the seriousness attached to this issue, it has been resolved that every payment must get to NAHCON by December 3, for onward transmission to the Saudi Arabia IBAN account on or before December 5.

     He warned that any money remitted afterwards would not be considered.

    He extended his appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu and Dr. Hamzat for their commitment and numerous interventions towards the success of the 2025 Hajj.

    On his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, urged NAHCON to be specific about the dates being given as a deadline. 

    He frowned at a situation where different deadlines were being set for payment, saying such a situation has created inconveniences for the intending pilgrims as well as the stakeholders.

  • Osun 2026: Oyebamiji’s ambition gets boost amid reported elders’ caucus endorsement

    Osun 2026: Oyebamiji’s ambition gets boost amid reported elders’ caucus endorsement

    • …Two aspirants have endorsed ex-NIWA boss—Party sources

    With just 15 days to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Osun State, the ambition of former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), has reportedly received a major boost following an alleged endorsement by the party’s Elders’ Caucus.

    The Nation reports that the APC currently has the highest number of governorship aspirants in the state, with 12 party chieftains vying for the ticket.

    The Elders’ Caucus, chaired by Engr. Sola Akinwumi had earlier met with all aspirants twice and urged them to delay picking nomination forms pending the outcome of its assessment and recommendations.

    A source confirmed to The Nation that after its screening and mediation process, the caucus settled on Oyebamiji as the preferred aspirant.

    The source added, “We suggest that the party should make Oyebamiji its consensus candidate after our findings among the aspirants. He has connected with many of them, earned their support, and based on his capacity, he topped the ratings.”

    Efforts to reach the caucus chairman, Engr. Akinwumi was unsuccessful as calls and messages were not responded to.

    The caucus secretary, Hon. Gbenga Omolaoye, also declined to comment, insisting only the chairman could speak on the matter.

    A caucus member, Professor Rasak Abubakar, refrained from speaking for the group but expressed his personal view, saying he would be pleased if the party’s ticket went to Oyebamiji, whom he believes deserves it.

  • NSCDC seeks stakeholders’ collaboration to end farmers–herders clashes in Ondo

    NSCDC seeks stakeholders’ collaboration to end farmers–herders clashes in Ondo

    The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ondo state has called on stakeholders to work collaboratively to curb recurring farmer-herder clashes, insisting that such cooperation is crucial for lasting peace and sustainable economic development.

    Oluyemi Ibiloye, the state commandant of the NSCDC, made the appeal during a stakeholders’ engagement and conflict-mitigation training organised for communities in Akure South and Akure North Local Government Areas on Friday.

    The two-day programme was organised by Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P) in collaboration with the NSCDC.

    Mr Ibiloye commended P4P for its peace-building initiative, stressing that the persistent clashes between farmers and herders had become a nationwide issue requiring joint intervention.

    “Sustainable peace can only be achieved when each group – including farmers, herders, traditional rulers, community leaders, government agencies, civil society organisations and security operatives – understands its role and commits to working together,” he said.

    Read Also: Group rejects calls for sack of IGP, NSCDC bosses

    P4P State Coordinator, Mrs Stella Ikeokwu Nathaniel, said the partnership aligned with the organisation’s mission to promote non-violent approaches to conflict resolution.

    The Senior Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Security Matters, Mr Olugbega Atiba, applauded the NSCDC for its efforts in reducing kidnappings within the state’s forests and assured that the government would continue to provide necessary support.

    The chairman of the Ondo State Farmers Congress, Abayomi Monilari, represented by Mr Oni Temitope, also welcomed the initiative, noting that farmers had suffered greatly from sustained attacks.

  • Oborevwori woos investors, says time to invest in Delta is now

    Oborevwori woos investors, says time to invest in Delta is now

    •  …orders immediate rehabilitation of failed sections of Refinery Road

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called on investors, particularly Deltans at home and in the diaspora, to take advantage of the state’s steadily improving socio-economic climate to invest in the State.

    The Governor, who made the call on Friday in Ubeji, Warri South Local Government Area, while inaugurating a multi-million-naira hospitality and tourism investment, the Swiss International Rancho Valerie Hotel, said, “The time to invest in Delta State is now.”

    “Warri is rising again, and Delta State is progressing steadily. The shadows of yesterday have given way to the bright possibilities of today and the greater promises of tomorrow,” the Governor declared.

    Saying the hotel is a bold testament to the rising economic profile of Warri, Oborevwori ordered the immediate rehabilitation of the failed portion of the Ubeji/Egbokodo/Refinery Road.

    He said the new hospitality facility reflects the renewed confidence investors now have in Delta State, adding that Warri is reclaiming its place as Delta’s commercial and tourism hub.

    According to him, the establishment of the hotel will not only provide premium accommodation but also stimulate local enterprise, create jobs, enhance community peace, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of the state.

    He said, “This hotel is not just another project; it is a clear statement that Delta State is open for business. It affirms that our state is safe, investor-friendly, and capable of hosting world-class hospitality and tourism ventures”.

    Governor Oborevwori praised the hotel’s owner, Mr. Mode Akoma, describing the project as an inspiring story of vision, resilience, and determination.

    He commended Akoma’s choice to invest in his home community rather than elsewhere, calling it a demonstration of deep commitment to Delta’s development.

    “If you had invited me to commission a hotel you built outside Delta State, I would not have attended. But I am proud that you chose to develop your community. This project brings jobs, brings peace, and brings progress,” he added.

    The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, enhanced security, and investor-friendly policies under the MORE Agenda.

    While congratulating the owners and management of Swiss International Rancho Valerie, he emphasized that the success of such projects underscores the limitless investment opportunities available in Delta State.

    Earlier in his welcome address, General Manager of the hotel, Mr. Todowede Opeyemi, said the facility would provide exceptional hospitality services that meet international standards.

    He added that the management is committed to contributing to the state’s development by helping unlock Delta’s rich tourism potential.

    “Every guest who visits us deserves more than just a stay; they deserve an unforgettable experience, one that reflects our culture, our hospitality, and our warmth as a people,” Opeyemi said.

  • Religious genocide: Minister charges CSOs to help correct misinformation about Nigeria

    Religious genocide: Minister charges CSOs to help correct misinformation about Nigeria

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has charged Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to help correct the misrepresentations of Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom.

    Speaking at the 25th Anniversary of ActionAid Nigeria in Abuja, the Minister urged CSOs in the country to counter the narratives by applying evidence-based insights into the Nigerian situation.

    Addressing misconceptions about Nigeria abroad, Idris stressed that the country is not a violator of religious freedom and reaffirmed that such freedoms are clearly guaranteed in the constitution.

     He acknowledged security challenges but emphasized that government efforts are yielding progress. He cautioned against narratives that mischaracterise Nigeria and strain its relations with its partners, particularly the United States.

    Reaffirming the government’s responsibility to protect citizens, especially children, he noted that “our children must be safe in their schools, safe in their communities, and safe in their homes” and highlighted President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a national emergency on security.

    The Minister explained that the emergency measures include new recruitment into security agencies, support for state-level security outfits, and a push for legislative action towards establishing state police.

    He described the declaration as a turning point in the fight against terrorism and banditry.

    He called on CSOs to deepen their support for open governance, media freedom, digital literacy, and community development, and affirmed that ActionAid’s contributions in these areas remain “complementary and invaluable” to national progress.

    The Minister, who was the Chairman of ActionAid Nigeria’s 25th anniversary celebration, commended AAN for its action, service, and transformative work across the country.

    The Minister said, “For a quarter of a century, ActionAid has taken development to the frontlines, empowering women and girls, strengthening education, improving healthcare, advocating for governance reforms, supporting communities during crises, and amplifying the voices of the most vulnerable.”

    Read Also: Minister, CDI charge officers on synergy, professionalism for quality intelligence gathering 

    ActionAid, he added, must be praised for its innumerable responses to challenging humanitarian situations and grassroots empowerment work that have shaped policy and community development in profound and measurable ways in Nigeria. “Today, we gather to honour this legacy and to look toward the next chapter.”

    He highlighted two symbolic milestones at the event, the launch of the AAN@25 Legacy Book and the unveiling of the ActionAid building prototype, describing them as a strong signal of organisational growth and long-term presence in Nigeria.

    “I am equally pleased to unveil the ActionAid building prototype, a strong signal of organisational growth and long-term presence in Nigeria. This forward-looking investment reflects ActionAid’s commitment to deepening its contribution to our nation over the next 25 years and beyond. These milestones deserve our collective applause,” he said.

    In his remarks, Andrew Mamedu, Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, said the struggle of AAN in the last 25 years is to help contain poverty.

    Mamedu noted that the struggle has not been of convenience but of conviction.

    He said, “25 years ago, ActionAid Nigeria began with a simple but radical proposition that poverty is not natural.

    And that exclusion is not a condition to be managed by the system. But we have to dismantle it. The true development does not happen when charity is displaced.

    “Charity may be right, give things, that’s charity. But when power is shifted from privilege to the marginalised, from silence to participation, from oppression to agency, our journey has never been one of convenience; it has been one of conviction.

    “We have chosen to take sides with women denied their rights, with youth denied their voices, and with communities denied access to opportunities they deserve.

    “Because we know that to end poverty, we must confront the structural injustice that creates it. “So for the past 25 years, we have stood shoulder to shoulder with people living in poverty and exclusion. Not as saviours, we don’t see ourselves as saviours, but as allies who are working together.”