The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Chief Nyesom Wike, has described himself as the most abused politician in the country today after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister also declared on Saturday that from January 2026 politics will start in Rivers State.
Wike spoke during a special thanksgiving service organised by the Chairman, South-South Development Commission (SSDC) and former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Prince Chibudom Nwuche at his Ochiba country home in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday.
The former Rivers state governor declared his unwavering stance in support for President Tinubu, insisting that he never reneged on any agreement he entered into.
Wike used the opportunity of the thanksgiving to commend the people of Ahoada East and Ahoada West councils for backing him to support the President.
He said, “This is the first local government we are coming to say thank you for being there for us all through these years
“You know, like the pastor said today, God detaste those who are ungrateful. And so for what you’ve done for us, for standing with us, we say thank you. Thank you, and thank you.
“You remember, in 2023, when it was tough, nobody knows what will happen in that election. Somebody was saying that it will be difficult for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to win that election.
“So many people were not able to come and vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. But we all met, as leaders here, and you, to say in politics, we must take a stand and defend. That we must take a decision, whether it is good or bad.
“But we know at the end of the day it will be good. But we did it. When it was tough, for people to say, on your mandate we stand. We stood firm and said on your mandate we stand and to the glory of God, we stood.
“And today he is the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He thanked the people for standing firm, saying, “So you are the ones who made the mandate to be strong as far as Rivers State is concerned.”
Wike condemned persons, who could not stand on Tinubu’s mandate when it was tough to do so but suddenly defected to his party at rosy period to declare support for the president.
He said, “So all these people you are now seeing singing on your mandate we stand, that time, when they were needed most, they couldn’t sing that. They couldn’t come out to say, vote for Ahmed Bola Tinubu
“Now that you stood and voted for him, and even said, woman, I tell you, all your struggle will not go in vain. So we have come to tell you to remain strong.
“Nigerians know us. When we take a decision, we have taken a decision. We don’t take decision based on what people have seen.
“We take a decision based on what we are convinced. We believe that this will happen. You stood firm even when you were not in power. You stood firm even when you were not in council.
“You were harassed. You said, no, no despite the harassment, I will still stand where I am. So for us, it will be unfair that we cannot come and tell you, thank you.
“You know me, I believe in agreement. Anything you know you cannot do, don’t say it, don’t even enter into it. From January next year politics will start.
“Nobody can use us. So let me say yes and agree later. No, I can’t do that.Whatever you have agreed in the morning, it was agreed in the night. So, don’t be worried yourself about who was shouting or your mandate will start. We have shouted when it mattered most.
“If we did not shout it then would they shout now? Would they have shouted now? I have never hidden my position. Nigerians know. And you can attest to it.
“We have never wavered in support of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. If you want to know after Bola Tinubu, the next most abused politician is me. Why are they abusing me? Because they know agreement is what?
“When we have agreed on something, let’s implement it. If you cannot implement it, don’t even come to reach it. So for us, we have decided before now, long ago, that we must make sure we continue to support Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
“That is the position you took. And that is the position we are going to continue to take. So on behalf of our team we want to thank you, our foot soldiers who have stood firm in spite of all provocations.”
Wike said some politicians in the home front, who went to get something from the governor, resorted to abusing and casting aspersions at him.
He also said most of the projects inaugurated recently by his successor had reached advanced stage and handed over to him in the spirit of continuity
He said, “At the appropriate time, we will talk. This project you commissioned who handed it over to you? We did it because we believe are a team.
“If we know that we will not be a team, we would not have done it. But we did it, and we have no regrets. I have no regrets
“One thing you should know about Nigerian politics. You know, there is a universal state every time. How you can make money now for a universal state is like that. You go and say, this enough is enough for Wike.
“Who deal with Wike, they drop (dish out money) If you don’t say you will deal with Wike, you won’t get him. I hear we have about N600billion somewhere.
“So just say we will deal with Wike
The moment you pronounce that word, something will come down, ” the FCT said in a mocking tone.
Earlier, Nwuche explained that the people of Ekpeye Kingdom would continue to support Wike, for the numerous projects he attracted to the area while he was Governor.
He said, “For the first time, Ekpeye had seven first-class stools. Before now, we only had one. Governors came and left. None of them agreed to elevate our stools. Only him (Wike) did that for us.
“So, I’ve seen people who have used power wrongly. They forget that there’s karma. And that’s why I say Nigerians should be careful in choosing leadership. We know our leaders very well. Ask us about them.
“There are many of them who came into leadership by accident. They have no business being there because they have no human feelings.”
He said people, who found themselves in power should use it to elevate the people and better their lots and “not to oppress them, to break their homes and go. “
He said, “Nobody who follows Wike can say that he hasn’t been impacted on positively. Nobody. That’s why you see, no matter where he goes, we shall go there. “
Terrorists in the north will come under more strikes following Thursday night’s collaborative operation by Nigeria and the United States on their locations in Sokoto State.
Officials of both countries confirmed yesterday that the strikes are ongoing.
A security source in Nigeria described the Thursday strikes as a test run.
The New York Times quoted a US military official as saying that about a dozen Tomahawk missiles were deployed for the operation that targeted areas close to the border with Niger Republic, where a branch of ISIS called the Islamic State-Sahel has been attacking government forces and civilians.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris was more categorical on the number of missiles fired:16.
He said in a detailed statement on the airstrike that that debris from the missiles caused the explosions in Offa,Kwara State and Jabo,Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Thursday night.
The explosions caused panic among residents.
The Tomahawk is a long-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missile used by the U.S. Navy and allies for deep-strike, land-attack missions. Launched from ships or submarines, it flies at low altitudes to evade radar, with a range exceeding 1,000 miles (1,600+ km) and precision targeting, often carrying a 1,000-lb warhead
Tomahawk Cruise Missile
The Tomahawk cruise missile is a precision weapon that launches from ships and submarines and can strike targets…
A video posted by the Pentagon showed at least one projectile launched from a warship. A US defense official said the strike targeted multiple militants at known ISIS camps.
The U.S. Africa Command said its initial assessment concluded that ‘multiple’ ISIS terrorists were killed.
The chairman of Tangaza Local Government area, Isa Saleh Bashir could not say how many terrorists were hit but said “they are certainly injured.”
“Reports indicate that Niger Republic security forces on patrol said they saw Lakurawa fleeing the area,” the local government chairman told the BBC.
An area hit by one of the missiles in Tangaza LGA was still emitting smoke yesterday afternoon.
US officials hailed Nigeria for its cooperation in getting at the terrorists.
Residents of Tambuwal and Tangaza local government areas were still in panic yesterday as they recounted their experience when the missiles began to rain.
They said the skies first went red followed by a deafening noise of explosions.
A team of police bomb experts yesterday visited the scene of the strikes in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area yesterday and cordoned it off.
Soon after the missiles hit their targets, the US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth wrote in a post on social media:“The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas.More to come…”
He added: “Grateful for Nigerian government support and cooperation.”
The commander of US Africa Command Dagvin Anderson also acknowledged Nigeria’s assistance,saying: “US Africa Command is working with our Nigerian and regional partners to increase counter terrorism cooperation efforts related to ongoing violence and threats against innocent lives.”
Bauni forest was the main target,says Information Minister
Information Minister Idris said in a statement that Nigeria in close coordination with the US “successfully conducted precision strike operations against two major Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves located within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto State.”
He said: “Intelligence confirmed that these locations were being used as assembly and staging grounds by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region, in collaboration with local affiliates, to plan and execute large-scale terrorist attacks within Nigerian territory.
“The precision strike operations were executed between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on Friday, 26 December, 2025, following explicit approval by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The operation was carried out under established command and control structures, with the full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and under the supervision of the Honourable Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.
“The strikes were launched from maritime platforms domiciled in the Gulf of Guinea, after extensive intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance.
“A total of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions were deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, successfully neutralising the targeted ISIS elements attempting to penetrate Nigeria from the Sahel corridor.
“During the course of the operation, debris from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel. No civilian casualties were recorded in either location, and relevant authorities promptly secured the affected areas.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and eliminate terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist networks seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and security.
“Nigeria remains fully aligned with its strategic partners and Friends of Nigeria in executing coordinated actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace, border security, and regional stability.
“The Federal Government assures all Nigerians that it remains firmly in control of the national security architecture and is fully committed to the protection of lives and property.
“Citizens are urged to remain calm and vigilant as decisive actions continue against all terrorist groups threatening the nation.”
How we worked with US by Nigeria’s Tuggar
Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, giving an insight yesterday on the joint operation between Nigeria and the US, said: “It is a collaboration, it is what we have been calling for.”
“It was Nigeria that provided intelligence for the US strike in Nigeria. I spoke with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, for 19 minutes before the strike, and we agreed to talk to President Tinubu for his go-ahead, and he gave it,” he said on Channels TV.
Continuing, he said: “After the approval, I spoke again with Marco Rubio five minutes before the strike was launched against the terrorists.
“Now that the US is cooperating, we would do it jointly, and we would ensure, just as the president emphasised yesterday before he gave the go-ahead, that it must be made clear that it is a joint operation, and it is not targeting any religion nor simply in the name of one religion or the other.
“We are a multi-religious country, and we are working with partners like the US to fight terrorism and safeguard the lives and properties of Nigerians.”
In a separate statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigeria remained “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.”
Nigeria’s military role in the precision strikes
The Defence Headquarters said the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, “conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of North West Nigeria.”
The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba said the operation was “executed with the approval of the appropriate Federal Government authorities and forms part of ongoing coordinated efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements threatening national security.”
He added: ”the strike followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the capability of the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage.
“The operation underscores the resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, working with strategic partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within Nigeria’s borders.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and to supporting joint and inter-agency efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the country.”
Missiles definitely hit terrorists – Tangaza LG chair
Tangaza Local Government Chairman Isa Salihu told Premium Times yesterday that the missiles hit a known hideout for terrorists in the area.
“That area serves as their primary route when entering from the Niger Republic,” Salihu said.
“They frequent these zones and have established camps in the dense forests near the border.
“We cannot yet confirm if targets were killed. We are awaiting detailed security reports to determine the impact and to verify if there were any civilian casualties.”
“Locals frequently report sightings of armed groups nestled within the rocky hills along the border axis. The blast from the airstrike has caused panic among residents in the surrounding communities. We pray that no one is hurt.”
Traditional ruler caution resident against picking strange metals
The BBC reported that a separate strike hit a field in the town of Jabo, further south in Sokoto, but there were no reports of casualties.
“Something that looked like a plane flashed and crashed… in fields,” BBC quoted resident Umar Jabo as saying.
The traditional ruler of the town, Alhaji Abubakar Jabo, advised residents against visiting the explosion site to pick metal fragments and debris.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the airstrike in the area did not affect residents nor damage residential buildings.
Locals reportedly picked fragments of the missiles.
Officials of Police Base 15 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) in Sokoto led by the Commandant, Mr Hassan Jatau, cordoned off the area on arrival.
Residents:the skies first went red, then boom
Jabo residents said some of them were about retiring to bed for the day when the skies unexpectedly turned red.
They were gripped by panic and while still wondering what was happening, a deafening noise accompanied by explosions followed throwing the entire community into pandemonium.
Some even thought a plane had crashed.
“It was almost like daytime,” resident Sanusi Madabo said of the fire sparked by the missiles.
In Offa, several buildings were hit on Yidi and Adeleke parts of the town.
“I was frying yam when I heard a deafening sound. It wasn’t like thunder,” said Mrs. Biodun Alabi, a resident of Adeleke area, where one of the fragments was found.
“When fragments started falling, we thought a plane had broken apart. We thank God it did not claim any life,” she added
If Mrs Alabi did not suffer any loss, the proprietor of an hotel in Adeleke area was not that lucky.
A piece of metal that looked like an expended shell pierced through a section of the building causing a major damage.
It’s a welcome development—Sokoto State govt
Sokoto State Government said it welcomed “any collaboration between Nigeria, and all relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state.”
The Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, said in Sokoto that while the airstrike carried out in Tangaza Local Government Area, claimed no civilian life but “ the impact could not be immediately determined” as an assessment of the Joint Operations was still being awaited.
The Federal Government will proceed with the implementation of the remaining two recently signed tax reform laws on January 1, 2026, as scheduled, notwithstanding the controversy over alleged alterations, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has said.
Oyedele spoke to journalists after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the President’s residence in Lagos, where he led a delegation that included the Chairman of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, and the Chairman of the National Tax Policy Implementation Committee, Joseph Tegbe.
He explained that the visit was to brief the President on the state of implementation of the four landmark tax reform laws signed earlier this year, noting that two of the laws are already in force.
“So we met with Mr. President to give an update about the implementation of the Tax Reform Laws. As you’re already aware, there are four of those laws, and two of them have already commenced,” Oyedele said.
According to him, the Nigerian Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and the Joint Revenue Service (Establishment) Act took effect on June 26, 2025, while the remaining two, the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, are scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026.
“The remaining two laws, that’s the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, are scheduled to commence on the first of January 2026,” he stated, stressing that the timeline remains unchanged.
Oyedele said the Federal Government welcomed the recent position of the House of Representatives Committee on the allegations of alteration surrounding the laws, adding that the Executive remains open to legislative engagement where necessary.
“We welcome the statement by the National Assembly, House of Representatives’ committee today on the findings and the work around the allegations about alteration. The Federal Government is committed to working with the National Assembly, if and when any action is required,” he said.
He emphasised that the decision to proceed with implementation as planned was driven by the pro-people nature of the reforms, which are designed to reduce the tax burden on ordinary Nigerians and stimulate economic growth.
“Therefore the plan to commence the two remaining new laws on the first of January 2026 will go ahead as planned, on schedule, because these reforms are designed to provide relief to the Nigerian people,” Oyedele said.
He disclosed that under the new tax regime, the vast majority of workers and small businesses would benefit significantly, with lower or zero tax obligations.
“Bottom 98 per cent of workers will see either no PAYE tax or lower taxes to be paid. Small businesses, 97 per cent of them, will be exempted from Corporate Income Tax, VAT, Withholding Tax, and large businesses will see a drop in the taxes that they pay,” he explained.
Oyedele said the overarching objective of the reforms is to promote “economic growth, inclusivity, as well as shared prosperity,” adding that the reform team is optimistic about the January 2026 rollout.
“We’re actually excited about the progress we’re making, and we’re looking forward to January 1, 2026,” he said.
Responding to questions on the level of preparedness for implementation, Oyedele said planning had been extensive and deliberate, beginning from the moment the bills were transmitted to the National Assembly.
“As you know, the Tax Reform Bills were at the National Assembly for nine months; from October 2024 until June 2025, and for us, preparation started from day one,” he said, adding that the six months since presidential assent had been devoted to “capacity building, system upgrade and sensitisation.”
He described the reform as a continuous process rather than a one-off event.
“This kind of reform is work in progress. You never get to perfection; you get better as you go along. So we believe that we’re at a point already,” Oyedele noted.
He explained that the staggered commencement of the laws was intentional, allowing institutions created by the reforms to become operational ahead of full implementation.
“One of the reasons why two of the tax laws took effect about six months ago is so that those institutions can start getting ready. For example, you have the Office of the Tax Ombudsman. You can’t set up that office on day one and it begins to work on day one,” he said.
On expected revenue from the reforms, Oyedele clarified that immediate revenue generation was not the primary goal, arguing that sustainable revenue would come from economic expansion and improved compliance.
“The intention for this tax reform is not immediate revenue generation. We believe that over time, you get revenue from growth, when the economy is growing,” he said.
He added that by widening the tax base, eliminating wasteful incentives and improving tax culture, the reforms would deliver fairness and stronger public finances in the long run.
“If people that were not paying before start paying and they’re not low-income earners not only do you get more revenue, you get fairness for society,” Oyedele said.
Meanwhile, the management of the National Assembly has reacted to controversy surrounding the legislative process on key tax laws, saying it is addressing the issues strictly within its constitutional and statutory mandate.
In a statement issued yesterday and signed by Bullah Audu Bi-Allah, Director, Information, for the Clerk to the National Assembly, the National Assembly said “the attention of the Management of the National Assembly has been drawn to public commentary concerning the legislative process relating to the passage, presidential assent, and publication in the Official Gazette 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 release noted that “the commentary has referenced matters relating to the harmonisation of the aforementioned Bills passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives, the assent by the president and the versions of the Acts published in the Official Gazette.”
According to the statement, “the leadership and management of National Assembly is addressing these matters strictly within its constitutional and statutory mandate.”
It added that “accordingly, the relevant Committees, in collaboration with the Management of the National Assembly, are conducting an internal review.”
The National Assembly explained that “this review is being undertaken in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Acts Authentication Act, Cap. A4, LFN 2004, the Standing Orders of both Chambers, and established parliamentary practice.”
As part of the process, and “in the course of this review, and for the purpose of ensuring clarity, accuracy, and sanctity of the legislative record,” the leadership said it has “directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to facilitate in collaboration with the relevant agencies the publication of the Acts in the Official Gazette and to issue certified true copies of the assented Acts on demand to any stakeholder or the general public.”
The statement stressed that “this administrative action is intended solely to authenticate and formally reflect the legislative decisions of the National Assembly.”
It further clarified that “the review is confined to institutional processes and procedures and does not constitute, imply, or concede any defect in the exercise of legislative authority by either Chamber.”
The exercise, it added, “is undertaken without prejudice to the powers, functions, or actions of any other arm or agency of government.”
Reaffirming its position, the National Assembly said it “remains fully committed to the principles of constitutionalism, separation of powers, and due process.”
It assured that “where procedural or administrative refinements are identified, appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the law and established parliamentary conventions.”
The legislature also appealed for restraint, stating that “members of the public are respectfully urged to allow the National Assembly’s institutional processes to proceed without conjecture.”
It added that “the leadership of both chambers remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the faithful discharge of its constitutional responsibility as the custodian of the legislative authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The statement said that “further information will be provided as may be necessary.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that community and state policing will soon become a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs, saying the move will mark a decisive shift in the country’s security approach.
The President gave the assurance yesterday while receiving a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Daniel Okoh, at his residence in Lagos.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said his administration’s ongoing recalibration of the nation’s security architecture was designed to deliver tangible results, adding that new approaches would change Nigeria’s security narrative and restore public confidence.
“The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are so large. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it,” the President said, calling for vigilance, cooperation and sustained engagement with faith-based groups.
He stressed that legislative backing was critical to the take-off of sub-national policing.
“Community and State Police will be a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” Tinubu said, explaining that security reforms required patience, especially in the procurement of military hardware.
The President noted that delays in acquiring equipment, particularly air assets, had affected public perception, but insisted the government was not relenting.
“Military hardware is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not available off the shelf. Our orders for four attack helicopters from the United States of America will take some time to arrive. We have approached Turkey for assistance,” he said.
Tinubu said the administration remained focused on restoring peace and prosperity despite the evolving tactics of bandits and insurgents.
On the recent abduction and subsequent release of schoolchildren in Niger and Kebbi states, he urged vigilance, adding that outcomes mattered more than rhetoric.
“The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means,” he said.
Responding, Archbishop Okoh assured the President of the Church’s support, describing him as “our President” and pledging cooperation.
He acknowledged the receipt of palliatives extended to CAN during religious festivals and beyond, and commended Tinubu’s commitment to addressing security and socio-economic challenges.
“We acknowledge that the task before you is daunting, but we are assured of your sagacity. The Christian community is committed to ensuring that you succeed,” Okoh said, adding that the administration’s engagement had “closed the gap between the government and the Church.”
The CAN President appealed for direct engagement through the association’s established structures across the country’s 774 local government areas and requested the release of funds to the Christian Pilgrims’ Board to enable it to fulfil its mandate.
Members of the delegation included CAN Vice President, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; representatives of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, the Catholic and Methodist blocs, and the CAN Chairman in Lagos State, Bishop Stephen Adegbite.
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.
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.
Nigeria and the United States yesterday launched a joint military operation to flush out terrorists in the Northwest, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed last night.
The Federal Government confirmed in a statement by the ministry that it remained engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States (U.S.), in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the joint operation in a tweet on his X handle.
He said the attacks were on Islamic States of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Sokoto State.
The statement by the Foreign Affairs Ministry was signed in the early hours of today by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
It reads: “This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the Northwest. 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.”
Confirming the operation, Trump said the military struck terrorists’ hideout in Sokoto.
The U.S. President said he had ordered the deadly strike to flush out ISIS terrorists in the Northwest.
Trump had accused the terror group of persecuting Christians in Nigeria.
In a post on social media, Trump said he had directed a “powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria,” who he said had been killing innocent people.
U.S. Africa Command said the strike killed multiple terrorists at the request of Nigerian authorities in Sokoto State, which borders Niger to the north.
The claim could not be verified as at the time of filing this report.
“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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“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 terrorism to prosper. 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,” added the president, who is spending the Christmas holiday at his estate in Palm Beach.
In a separate post on social media, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said he was “grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation”.
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Daniel Bwala, told CNN: “The U.S. and Nigeria are on the same page in the fight against terrorism.”
Trump has focused for the last several months on terrorist activities, including calling in November on his secretary of defence to “prepare for possible action” and warning the U.S. would enter Nigeria “guns-a-blazing” to protect the Christian population of Africa’s most populous country.
On Christmas Eve, Tinubu shared a “Christmas Goodwill Message” in which he wished Christians across his nation and the world a merry Christmas and prayed for peace among individuals of differing religious beliefs.
“I stand committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect Christians, Muslims, and all Nigerians from violence,” President Tinubu said in a post on X.
A delegation of senior Nigerian officials had visited the U.S. to hold talks with their counterpart.
The team, led by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, had explained the government position.
The team said the terrorists have no specific target.
A delegation made mainly of U.S Congressmen had also visited Nigeria.
Both countries had raised a joint committee to deepen talks.
Those behind the Christmas Eve suicide attack in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, will be fished out and made to face the full weight of the law, the Federal Government said yesterday.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered troops to beef up security in the Northeastern state.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed the President’s directive, condemned the bombing that killed five people and injured dozens of others in the attack on Gamboru market.
Expressing confidence in the country’s security architecture, the Vice President said ongoing operations would not only lead to the arrest of the attackers but also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
He described the incident as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.
Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, added in a statement that the Federal Government had moved swiftly to prevent further violence and ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice.
The Vice President said: “The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation.
“Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately.”
Shettima said President Tinubu had ordered the immediate intensification of security operations in Maiduguri.
This, he said, includes the deployment of additional tactical teams to track down those responsible for the attack at the bustling Gamboru Market area.
“We sympathise with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack,” he said.
Shettima assured that those behind the attack would face “the full weight of the law.”
He reaffirmed that the Tinubu Administration’s commitment to national security remained unwavering, stressing that the protection of lives and property was a core constitutional responsibility of government.
Boko Haram behind attack, says military
Operation HADIN KAI of the Joint Task Force (Northeast) Headquarters said preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and two civilians on the scene.
Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said in a statement: “A total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries.
“Regrettably, two of the injured civilians were later confirmed dead at the hospital, while two others are currently in critical condition.
“The remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care.
“Troops and other security agencies have since intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
“Members of the public are advised to remain calm and security conscious, especially during the yuletide season.
“The public is also urged to be on the lookout for teenagers with suspicious looks.
“It is advised to avoid crowded places and maintain extra vigilance at religious places, especially churches, during the yuletide.
“Citizens are urged to promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security post.
“OPHK commiserates with the families of the deceased and assures the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.”
Northern governors, ACF condemn attack
The Northern Governors’ Forum also condemned the suicide attack, describing it as barbaric, dastardly and cowardly.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement, said targeting a place of worship was a grave violation of human conscience and religious sanctity.
He called for enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods.
Similarly, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) described the bombing as sad and deeply troubling, noting that it was a painful reminder that terrorism had not been fully tamed.
“It is utterly inconceivable and totally unacceptable that criminal elements would be allowed to bring the country to its knees,” the ACF said.
It called for heightened vigilance at places of congregation.
PDP urges tightened security
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urged the Federal and state governments to take immediate and practical steps to protect citizens.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ini Ememobong, described the incident as totally unacceptable.
“We commiserate with the families of those who have lost their loved ones in this senseless attack.
“No one should lose their life while worshipping God.
“If these attacks on places of worship continue unchecked, they will not only violate the constitutional right of Nigerians to freely worship but will also create an atmosphere of fear that threatens the very fabric of our religious society,” the party said.
‘Christmas a solemn season beyond celebration, festivities’
As Nigerians join the rest of the world in celebrating Christmas today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to the protection of all faiths in an atmosphere of religious tolerance and harmony.
He said his Administration would build on sustained engagements with leaders of major faiths to prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national unity and stability.
President Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of the Christian leaders to national development and urged them to sustain the tempo.
In his Christmas message, the President said dialogue with Christian and Muslim leaders had remained central to his administration’s response to religious intolerance and insecurity, noting that such engagements would be expanded to reinforce harmony across the country.
Statesmen, politicians, traditional rulers and religious leaders, who also felicitated Christians, renewed their appeals for mutual understanding in the country.
It is the first Christmas since some religious leaders raised allegations of genocide against Christians, a claim that the Federal Government debunked, but which spurred United States President Donald Trump to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
President Tinubu, who noted the complaints about insecurity and intolerance, vowed to deepen engagements with religious bodies to promote tranquillity.
He said: “Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity.
“We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.”
The President described Christmas as a solemn season that transcends celebrations and festivities, urging Nigerians to reflect on the deeper significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and his enduring message of peace, grace and goodwill to humanity.
He prayed that “the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us.”
Thanking God for the opportunity to serve, the President reaffirmed his constitutional responsibility to the country.
He said his administration would entrench religious freedom and protect Nigerians of all faiths from violence and discrimination.
President Tinubu stressed: “As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.”
The president said that since assuming office in 2023, he has consistently reassured Nigerians of his resolve to guarantee security, unity and stability.
He said that pledge “remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
President Tinubu insisted that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity or belief, has the right to live, worship and pursue legitimate aspirations in safety and dignity.
He said that no citizen should be made to suffer for professing or practising his or her faith.
President Tinubu noted that love for God and humanity are shared values at the heart of all major religions, which must continue to bind Nigerians together as one indivisible people.
The President acknowledged the contributions of Christians to national development, noting that the teachings of Christ have inspired many to serve society selflessly.
He said the Gospel message has motivated countless Nigerians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged, while promoting peace, harmony and tolerance within their communities.
President Tinubu commended individuals and groups who continue to bring hope and faith in the midst of hardship, saying the Christmas season serves as a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God remains with the nation.
On security, the President reiterated that peace and stability are critical priorities and prerequisites for sustainable development and national progress.
President Tinubu urged Nigerians to exercise patience and discipline on the roads as they reunite with family and loved ones.
He wished all travellers a safe journey and safe return to their destinations.
Expressing optimism about the country’s future, the President said that with confidence in divine providence and collective national strength, Nigeria would continue on the path of renewal.
He assured that his administration would remain focused on building a greater and more united country worthy of pride by future generations.
Agency rejects representation in fraud allegation petition
Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote must appear personally to adopt his corruption allegation petition, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has indicated.
The business mogul filed a petition before the agency against former Chief Executive of
The anti-graft commission conveyed its decision to Dangote’s lawyer, Dr. Ogwu Onoja (SAN), in a December 24 letter.
Onoja had on December 22, gone to the ICPC office to adopt the petition.
But in a letter to Onoja by the Chief of Staff to ICPC Chairman, Rouqayya Ibrahim, the commission said it was necessary for Dangote to come in person.
The letter, which was exclusively obtained by The Nation, reads in part: “The commission acknowledges the appearance of your good self…, wherein you adopted the petition in respect of the allegations made against Engr. Farouk Ahmed on behalf of your client, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
“While the commission appreciates your representation, we are constrained to draw your attention to the fact that the matter under investigation is criminal in nature, being conducted pursuant to the provisions of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
“As you are aware, criminal investigations may culminate in criminal proceedings before a court of competent jurisdiction.
“In such circumstances, the statement and personal adoption of the petition by the complainant may be required to be tendered in court as part of the evidentiary process.
“It is therefore essential, for purposes of procedural integrity and admissibility, that Alhaji Aliko Dangote personally adopts his petition before the commission.
“Accordingly, we respectfully request that you kindly facilitate the appearance of Alhaji Aliko Dangote at the Commission’s Headquarters on 29th December 2025 at 10am, for the purpose of formally adopting his petition. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.”
Dangote had alleged that Ahmed spent over $7million in public funds on his four children’s education at elite Swiss schools, with fees paid upfront for up to six years.
He alleged: “That Engr Farouk Ahmed spent without evidence of lawful means of income humongous amount of money of over $7million of public funds, for the education of his four children in different schools in Switzerland for a period of six years upfront.”
The Cold War between Dangote and the petroleum regulator had resulted in a N100billion suit.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE filed a N100 billion lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging import licences issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and others, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The refinery accused the regulator of granting licences to import refined petroleum products despite domestic production capacity.
It alleged that the action of the regulator violated some sections of the Petroleum Industry Act.
But the suit, FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024, was discontinued in July by Dangote’s lawyers.
ICPC’s petition guidelines say: “Any person anywhere in the world may make a complaint against any other person (corporate or non-corporate) in Nigeria, where reasonable grounds exist for suspecting that such a person has conspired to commit or attempted to commit or has committed an offence under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000.
A former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Farouk Aliyu, has advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to resolve its internal wrangling or merge with the All Democratic Congress (ADC).
Aliyu, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), gave the advice yesterday in an interview on a national television programme.
“I call on my brothers and sisters in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to put their acts together. In my opinion, the Peoples Democratic Party should merge with the African Democratic Congress,” he said.
Aliyu noted that if the PDP was truly “dying,” one way to revive it is by merging with the ADC.
“The way things are going, either amongst themselves they don’t come together to concede, some concession is needed, if they truly want democracy in this country to thrive,” he said.
The APC chieftain emphasised that some of them need to concede certain things so that the Peoples Democratic Party can come back.
“Honestly, it’s sad in this country that the Peoples Democratic Party looks to be dying, and I hope the African Democratic Congress gets its act together too, and we need vibrant opposition because we need to oppose the government so that the people will get the best of the system,” he said
Aliyu said it is not in the place of the APC to make the opposition parties come together.
“Remember the All Progressives Congress is a conglomeration of All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and so on,” Aliyu said.
“However, they came together and formed the All Progressives Congress. So, if the Peoples Democratic Party is dying, why can they go on my advice and join the African Democratic Congress?
“Those in the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party are respected Nigerians. We respect them. These are people who have contributed in one way or the other for the growth of this country,” Aliyu said.
The APC chieftain said the ruling party was not afraid of any opposition because “the country belongs to all of us and not to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.
He added: “It does not belong to him, not to you, but it belongs to all of us.”
His comment comes on the heels of defections of key PDP stalwarts, including governors, National Assembly members, and others to the APC.
The main opposition party is also embroiled in a crisis, with two factions laying claims to the leadership of the party, which ruled Nigeria from 1999 to 2015.
