The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

  • Reps seek urgent FG intervention over rising tension between Ondo–Ogun border communities

    Reps seek urgent FG intervention over rising tension between Ondo–Ogun border communities

    The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to urgently intervene in the escalating tension between the oil-rich Eba Island–Atijere communities located on the border between Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State and Ogun State, to avert a potential breakdown of law and order.

    The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Donald Ojogo, in which the House also urged the National Boundary Commission to immediately initiate measures to clarify and determine the official status of the disputed area.

    Ojogo told lawmakers that what is now known as the Mahin Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State was originally called the Mahin country and has existed since pre-colonial times.

    He explained that in 1885, the traditional ruler of the area, the Amapetu of Mahin, agreed with colonial authorities to incorporate the entire Mahin country and the Atijere Island into the Lagos Colony, where it was administered until the 1914 Amalgamation.

    The lawmaker warned that failure to urgently address the boundary dispute could worsen tensions and threaten peace in the affected communities.

    “Atijere, alongside its adjoining towns such as Irokun, Igboedun, Eba, Obinneyin, Araromi seaside, Mahintedo, and ItebuElero, to mention just a few, have remained under the Paramountcy of the Amapetu, a First Class and Grade A Traditional Ruler in Ondo State ever since that historic Treaty with the British Colonial Authorities.

    “Following this recognition, Atijere, serving as the headquarters of other satellite towns including Eba, hosted the Native Court in 1933, and in all these, Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom appointed vassal chiefs who have always been of Ilaje descent and ethnic background of the then Ondo Province and lately, Ondo State.

    “All infrastructure, i.e., roads, hospitals, schools, and other social amenities, were/are provided for by the then Ondo province/Ondo government up to date.

    “Eba Island, for instance, firmly falls within the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. The geographic coordinates align with officially recognized national and international mapping systems, and such cannot be altered by opinion or speculation.

    Read Also: Reps committee summons finance, agriculture ministers, auditor general

    “Eba Island has, for decades, been administered as part of the Atijere Forest Reserve under Ondo State Government authority without any formal protest or legal challenge from Ogun State; and that the location of the Oil Field (Ago Balogun Community) otherwise known as the Eba Oil Field falls within Ago Balogun Community, customarily, historically and traditionally governed under Atijere Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State which further reinforces the fact that the original inhabitants of Eba Island are the Ilaje sub ethnic group of the Yoruba ethnic nationality.

    “Even without any Legal Instrument in, no judgment of any competent court, no National Boundary Commission determination, and no constitutional instrument designating Eba Island or the Eba Oil Field as part of Ogun State, media opinions and publications have twisted historical facts by insinuating that they belong to Ogun State.

    “This situation has culminated in an avoidably brewing tension, almost precipitating a breakdown of Law and Order.”

  • Okpebholo urges NASS to investigate power grid collapse

    Okpebholo urges NASS to investigate power grid collapse

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has asked the National Assembly to carry out a diligent legislative investigation into the nation’s persistent power outage and the collapse of the national grid.

    Governor Okpebholo said the country would be the best nation if there were a steady power supply.

    The Edo governor spoke in Benin City during an interface with the House of Representatives ad-hoc committee on power sector reform and expenditure.

    Represented by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Governor Okpebholo of Nigeria would only achieve a robust economy if the power sector is fixed.

    The Committee Chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Aliyu, explained that the Committee was on a mission across the country to investigate and audit the power sector reforms carried out from 2007 to 2024.

    “We are in Edo State in continuation of our investigative activities. We have so far seen two generating companies, the Azura and the Benin Generating Company.

    Read Also: Okpebholo presents Edo Air initiative

    “Today, we engaged the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), all in a fact-finding mission to establish the truth of what they have submitted before the ad hoc committee a few weeks ago.”

    Speaking on the frequent collapse of the national grid between 2024 and 2025, Aliyu said there was a need to conduct a “forensic investigation on the policy itself, the strategies and role played by each stakeholder within the electricity sector, from 2007 to 2024.

    “We are also to make physical assessments of some of the issues, since projects are involved, and also, based on the different contributions made by the federal government through the Central Bank of Nigeria.

    “We are out to know the truth and see how we can make things right,” he concluded.

    Acting Managing Director/CEO BEDC, Hon. (Engr.) Jonathan Lawani said the firm was doing everything to provide outside support for the grid collapse challenges

    “We recognise the fact that the grid allocation we are having is not enough, adequate, and sufficient to power every customer within our franchise area.

    “So, we have gone outside the grid to support and augment whatever we have. And, we are bringing people back to the grid to enjoy a good power supply.”

  • Police arrest man for allegedly killing elder brother in Adamawa

    Police arrest man for allegedly killing elder brother in Adamawa

    Operatives of the Adamawa State Police Command have arrested a 40-year-old man, Abubakar Sadiq, over the alleged murder of his elder brother, Alhaji Sadiq Kawu Boga.

    The police described Sadiq as the prime suspect in the killing, adding that five other individuals have been identified as accomplices in the case.

    According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Suleiman Nguroje, the suspects are residents of Boga Village in Gombi Local Government Area and were tracked following actionable intelligence from officers attached to the Gombi Divisional Police Headquarters.

    Nguroje disclosed that the victim was killed on January 20, 2026, and that during interrogation, Abubakar Sadiq confessed to his involvement in the crime alongside five other persons.

    Read Also: Two dismissed Army officers nab for robbery as police recover three cars in Ibadan

    He added that the suspect led security operatives to recover an AK-47 rifle believed to have been used in the attack, as well as the arrest of two alleged accomplices, identified as Jalo Hamiyu, 35, and Umar Baba, 41.

    “A joint security team comprising police operatives, hunters, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force moved to arrest the duo on the same day,” Nguroje disclosed, adding, however, that the suspects opened fire on the operatives in an attempt to escape, resulting in a gun battle in which the two men were neutralised.

    According to Nguroje, “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the suspected criminal network who are currently at large.”

  • 2027: Why north will back Tinubu for second term, by NYF

    2027: Why north will back Tinubu for second term, by NYF

    The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has declared that northern Nigeria will overwhelmingly support President Bola Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 presidential election.

    It also cited his reforms, commitment to national unity, and adherence to Nigeria’s power rotation principle.

    In a statement issued on behalf of the group, the chairman of NYF, Sama Musa, on Wednesday said the North remains resolute in its support for President Tinubu, describing his administration as pivotal to stability, inclusiveness, and progressive governance since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

    Musa noted that Nigeria’s zoning and rotation arrangement has played a critical role in promoting equity, representation, and harmony among the country’s diverse regions, adding that President Tinubu’s leadership reflects the spirit and intent of that system.

    He said, “Since the inception of our democratic journey in 1999, Nigeria has witnessed a significant evolution in its political landscape. The rotation system, a framework designed to promote inclusivity and representation among the diverse ethnic and regional groups, has emerged as a cornerstone of our democratic process.

    “This system has not only provided a platform for equitable power distribution but has also served as a bulwark against potential discord and division among the various segments of our society.

    “President Tinubu’s tenure has exemplified the essence of this rotation system, reinforcing the belief that leadership should resonate with the aspirations and needs of all Nigerians, particularly those in the North. His administration has initiated a plethora of reforms aimed at addressing the socio-economic challenges that have long plagued our region.

    “From infrastructural development to educational advancement and security enhancements, President Tinubu’s policies have laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and progress.

    “As we look toward the future, it is crucial to ensure continuity in these laudable reforms. The progress made thus far must not only be preserved but also expanded upon. Re-electing President Tinubu for a second term will guarantee that the momentum of his transformative agenda continues unabated.

    “His vision for a prosperous Nigeria, characterized by economic resilience and social cohesion, aligns seamlessly with the aspirations of the Northern Nigerian populace. Moreover, the re-election of President Tinubu is paramount for the preservation of national unity. In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, it is essential to cultivate a sense of belonging among all citizens.

    “The President’s commitment to fostering dialogue, promoting inclusivity, and bridging divides has been instrumental in nurturing a collective national identity. His leadership has demonstrated that unity is not merely a lofty ideal but a tangible reality that can be achieved through concerted efforts and shared vision.

    “The Northern Youth Frontiers recognizes that the challenges facing our nation are multifaceted and require a leader who possesses the acumen, experience, and dedication to navigate them effectively. President Tinubu’s track record speaks volumes; his ability to engage with various stakeholders, his pragmatic approach to governance, and his unwavering resolve to uplift the lives of ordinary Nigerians make him the ideal candidate to lead our nation into the future.

    “One of the most significant recent developments is the decamping of Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Governor of Kano State, from the New Nigeria) People’s Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This shift is a critical indicator of the North’s potential voting patterns in the upcoming 2027 presidential elections. The move confirms that the North will overwhelmingly support Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    Read Also: Forest guard approval: NCYP commends Tinubu, urges community-based youth recruitment in Plateau

    The NYF called on Northern youths and stakeholders to mobilize at the grassroots level in support of Tinubu’s re-election, urging active participation through community engagements, town hall meetings, and political advocacy.

    He added, “We call upon all citizens of Northern Nigeria to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as we embark on this journey toward the 2027 elections. Let us embrace the spirit of unity, cooperation, and collective responsibility as we advocate for the re-election of a leader who has consistently prioritised the welfare of the Nigerian people.

    “As we mobilise our grassroots networks, we encourage engagement at all levels – from community meetings to town halls, from social media campaigns to traditional outreach. It is our collective duty to ensure that every voice is heard and every vote counts.

    “Together, we can demonstrate that the Northern region is not only a vital part of Nigeria’s political space but also a beacon of hope for a united and prosperous future”.

    Reaffirming the group’s position, Musa said supporting Tinubu’s second-term bid goes beyond partisan politics, describing it as an endorsement of continuity, unity, and democratic values, adding that, “By voting for continuity, we are not merely endorsing a candidate; we are championing a vision for a Nigeria that thrives on unity, progress, and democratic values. Let us stand together, as one North, in our commitment to a brighter tomorrow.”

  • Yusuf’s defection will catapult Kano’s development – France APC

    Yusuf’s defection will catapult Kano’s development – France APC

    The Chairperson of France chapter, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hajia Amina Suzuki, has predicted that the defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf to the ruling party would catapult the state to greater heights.

    Commending the governor’s action in a statement in Abuja as timely and courageous, Suzuki said the move was in the best interest of Kano state and Nigeria at large.

    Suzuki said the governor’s defection was a deep commitment to progressive governance, national unity, and alignment with the ruling party’s vision of inclusive development under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

    According to her, “Governor Yusuf’s decision to join the APC will further strengthen the party’s political base in Kano state and enhance collaboration between the state and the federal government, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, economic growth, security, and social development.

    “This bold step by His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, demonstrates statesmanship and a clear understanding of the current political realities in Nigeria. By joining the APC, the governor has positioned Kano state to benefit more from federal initiatives and people-oriented policies of the Tinubu administration,” Hajia she  stated.

    She noted that the APC, as a progressive party, remains open and accommodating to leaders who share its ideology and commitment to service, adding that the governor’s entry into the party would foster unity among stakeholders and supporters across Kano state.

    Read Also: More pro-Kwankwaso appointees resign from Yusuf’s cabinet

    The APC leader then assured Governor Yusuf of the full support of APC members in the diaspora, particularly the France Chapter, stressing that Nigerians abroad are keenly interested in political developments at home and remain committed to the growth and stability of the party.

    “We in the APC France Chapter welcome Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf with open arms. His defection is not just a gain for the APC but a victory for democracy and good governance in Kano State,” she added.

    While urging party members in Kano and across the country to rally around the governor to ensure sustained peace, unity, and effective governance, the APC chieftain also commended Kano APC leaders for the warm welcome extended to the Governor. 

    She, however, expressed confidence that the APC would emerge stronger and more united ahead of future political engagements, not only in Kano state but across the nation.

  • Two dismissed Army officers nab for robbery as police recover three cars in Ibadan

    Two dismissed Army officers nab for robbery as police recover three cars in Ibadan

    Two dismissed Nigerian Army officer, David Okhaie and Balogun Afolabi, have been arrested by operatives of Nigerian Police, Oyo State Command for armed robbery 

    The two notorious robbers specialized in dispossessing unsuspecting members of the public of their vehicles at gunpoint, thereby instilling fear and disrupting public peace within the state.

    Confirming the development in a statement, the Spokesman of the Oyo State Police Command, Ayanlade Olayinka said the duo were arrested following credible intelligence and an intense manhunt, which culminated in a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation carried out within the Ibadan metropolis.

    Ayanlade said search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of three vehicles including: a Toyota Camry, Toyota Corrolla, a Lexus RX 350 and one Super Cargo motorcycle.

    He said, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that, in furtherance of its sustained efforts to combat violent crimes and ensure the safety of lives and property across the State, operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit have recorded a significant operational success with the arrest of two notorious armed robbery suspects.

    “This breakthrough followed credible intelligence and an intense manhunt, which culminated in a well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation carried out within the Ibadan metropolis.

    “The suspects were identified as David Okhaie, male, aged 48 years, of Ojoo Area, Ibadan, a dismissed Corporal of the Nigerian Army with Service Number 2005NA/…./…., who falsely paraded himself as an Army Captain, and Balogun Afolabi, male, aged 43 years, of Wakajaiye Area, Ibadan, also a dismissed Corporal of the Nigerian Army with Service Number 2011NA/…./……

    “Subsequent investigations revealed that the suspects specialize in dispossessing unsuspecting members of the public of their vehicles at gunpoint, thereby instilling fear and disrupting public peace within the State.

    Read Also: 273 Army officers begin senior staff course exams in Jaji

    “Consequently, a search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of the following exhibits from the suspects: one Toyota Camry, black in colour, with registration number KRD 253 KC; one Toyota Corolla, metallic in colour, with registration number JTA 938 AA; one Lexus RX 350, silver in colour, unregistered; and one Super Cargo motorcycle, black in colour, with registration number YRE 487 VD.”

    He said both suspects have confessed to the commission of the crimes and are currently providing useful information to assist ongoing investigations, with a view to apprehending other members of the criminal syndicate and recovering additional stolen properties.

    He urged the members of the public who may have lost their vehicles to armed robbery or theft, and whose vehicle descriptions match any of the recovered exhibits, to come forward to the Oyo State Police Command with valid proof of ownership and means of identification for verification and possible claim of their vehicles.

  • Millions of children out of school in northern Nigeria, girls worst hit — UNICEF

    Millions of children out of school in northern Nigeria, girls worst hit — UNICEF

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern that millions of children in Northern Nigeria remain out of school, with girls facing greater disadvantages due to entrenched cultural, economic and social barriers that hinder school completion.

    The Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Kano, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, disclosed this in a keynote address at the 2026 International Day of Education (IDE) commemoration held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

    Farah identified poverty, insecurity, harmful social norms and limited educational resources as major factors weakening learning outcomes and eroding the aspirations of children across the region.

    The event, which drew stakeholders from UNICEF-supported states including Kano, Katsina and Jigawa, was held under the theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.” UNICEF stressed the need to place young people at the centre of discussions on shaping the future of education by 2030.

    While acknowledging progress recorded in some parts of Northern Nigeria, Farah urged youths to take a leading role in transforming the country’s education system, describing education as a fundamental right, a source of hope and the foundation of sustainable national development.

    Addressing government officials, development partners, educators, parents, media practitioners and youths, Farah said education remains the strongest weapon for breaking cycles of hardship and building a future where every child can thrive with dignity.

    “Education is not just a service; it is a right, a beacon of hope and the foundation of every strong society,” he said. “It is what gives every child—girl or boy the freedom to dream, to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to walk with pride.”

    According to him, young people are demanding an education system that is relevant, inclusive, safe and empowering one that inspires creativity, motivates learning and leaves no child behind.

    “They want classrooms that ignite imagination, teachers who inspire, and systems that catch every child,” Farah noted.

    “Education must go beyond textbooks to equip children with life skills, digital competence, critical thinking and the confidence to shape their own future.”

    He added that the International Day of Education should not only be a moment of reflection, but a call to renewed commitment and collective action.

    Read Also: Anambra, UNICEF assure children’s safety ahead Measles-Rubella vaccination

    “At UNICEF, we remain firmly committed to supporting governments and communities in Kano Field Office states to strengthen education systems, improve learning environments, promote adolescent development and ensure access to quality education for every child,” he said.

    Farah emphasised that investing in education yields far-reaching dividends, noting that educating a child uplifts a family, educating a girl strengthens a community, and sustained investment in education lays the foundation for peace and sustainable development.

    He also commended development partners, community and traditional leaders, teachers, civil society organisations and youths driving initiatives such as the Youth-Led Education Lab.

    “Your voices matter. Your ideas matter,” he told the youths. “You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are partners today, shaping history.”

    As the IDE 2026 celebration drew to a close, the UNICEF chief urged stakeholders to renew their collective resolve to ensure that every child in the Northwest and across Nigeria whether in urban centres or rural communities has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.

    “Let us keep faith in the transformative power of education,” he said, wishing all stakeholders a successful International Day of Education 2026.

  • FG set to engage military retirees to reclaim ungovern spaces, strengthen national security

    FG set to engage military retirees to reclaim ungovern spaces, strengthen national security

    The Federal Government is set to engage retired military personnel to reclaim ungovern spaces and strengthen national security.

    This followed the inauguration of an 18-member committee by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), on Reclaiming Ungoverned Spaces for Economic Viability and the Repositioning of the Nigerian Legion corps of Commissionaires and Veterans, at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja, on Tuesday.

    According to a statement by Deputy Director Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu the Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwa.

    Muss said the repositioning of the Nigeria Legion was part of a broader government commitment to ensure that veterans who have served the nation with honour are not left behind but are empowered to live dignified and productive lives after service.

    The Minister described the initiative as a deliberate and strategic policy intervention designed to address long-standing structural and operational challenges that have limited the contribution of the defence community to national development.

    He described Nigeria Legion as “a critical institution with a proud history of service, sacrifice and patriotism”, noted that it has continued to play important roles in supporting national security and veterans affairs, and that evolving socio-economic realities makes it imperative to reform and reposition the corps for greater relevance and sustainability. 

    Read Also: Military retirees block finance ministry’s entrance over unpaid entitlements

    Musa advocated for a strategic shift from an over-reliance on military offensive to a more comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable approach to national security adding that while military operations remain indispensable, enduring peace and stability can only be achieved by addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that enable insecurity to persist.

    The committee has three (3) Terms of Reference, which include: To reposition the veteran community to support national economic development; To deploy veterans to secure Ungoverned Spaces and ensure that the areas are brought under effective oversight and development; and To reposition the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires, strengthen operational effectiveness, facilitate veterans reintegration and promote their contribution to national security.

    The Minister urged members of the committee to adopt innovative, practical and forward looking approaches that reflect contemporary realities, “gathering and foster trust between communities and the state.”

    The membership of the committee were drawn from the Joint Services Department of the ministry, Nigeria Legion, Defence headquarters, Defence Intelligence Agency, Nigeria Army, Nigeria Navy, Nigeria Air force as well as representatives from Offices of the Honourable Minister of Defence and Honourable Minister of State Defence. 

  • Tinubu consoles Super Eagles captain on father’s death

    Tinubu consoles Super Eagles captain on father’s death

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent a message of condolence to Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi, over the death of his father, Sunday Ndidi.

    In a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as tragic and painful for the family and all who knew the deceased.

    Sunday Ndidi reportedly died in a road accident in Umunede, near Agbor, in Delta State, on Tuesday. 

    His son, Wilfred Ndidi, plays for Turkish Super Lig side Beşiktaş and serves as captain of the Super Eagles.

    Tinubu, in his condolence message, said he was deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Sunday Ndidi, noting the close bond he shared with his son.

    “I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Sunday Ndidi. I share in the grief of his family, friends and associates, particularly Wilfred Ndidi, who shared a strong bond with his father as a mentor and guide in his remarkable career as an exceptional footballer,” the President said.

    Read Also: Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    He added that the late Ndidi’s values and personal conduct left a lasting impression on those around him.

    “There is no doubt that Sunday’s modest beginnings and honesty greatly impacted those who looked up to him for inspiration,” the President noted.

    The President also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family and for the repose of the soul of the departed.

    He asked God Almighty to grant the Ndidi family the strength to bear the loss and to grant eternal rest to Sunday Ndidi.

  • Trump warns Iraq not to reinstate al-Maliki as Prime Minister

    Trump warns Iraq not to reinstate al-Maliki as Prime Minister

    U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw the U.S. support from Iraq if former Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki, is reinstated to the post.

    “Because of (al-Maliki’s) insane policies and ideologies, if elected, the United States of America will no longer help Iraq.

    “If we are not there to help, Iraq has ZERO chance of Success, Prosperity, or Freedom,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.

    “Last time Maliki was in power, the Country descended into poverty and total chaos.That should not be allowed to happen again,” Trump said.

    He added that Iraq would be making “a very bad choice by reinstalling Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister.”

    Around two and a half months after parliamentary elections in Iraq, the ruling Shiite alliance nominated al-Maliki as its candidate for the office of prime minister a week ago.

    Iraq’s parliament on Tuesday was supposed to elect a new president, who would then nominate the prime minister.

    However, according to media reports, the election of the president was postponed due to disagreements over the candidate.

    Al-Maliki, 75, was head of government in Iraq from 2006 to 2014 after the fall of long-time dictator Saddam Hussein.

    Critics, including representatives of the U.S. leadership has accused him, among other things, of being responsible for the success of the extremist militia organisation Islamic State due to poor governance.

    Many in Iraq consider him one of the country’s most corrupt politicians.

    Al-Maliki and his Shiite party alliance have close ties to neighbouring Iran.

    More than 20 years after the U.S. invasion and the overthrow of Hussein, and years of terrorist rule by Islamic State in parts of the country, stability in Iraq remains fragile.

    Both the U.S. and Iran are trying to assert their influence in the country.

    Given the tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, corruption and ongoing violence, many people’s distrust of politics runs deep.

    (dpa/NAN)