The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

  • Nkechi Blessing apologises to Imisi over controversial question at birthday party

    Nkechi Blessing apologises to Imisi over controversial question at birthday party

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has apologised to Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner Imisi over a question she asked during her birthday party, which sparked widespread backlash on social media.

    Imisi, who turned 24 on Tuesday, threw a lavish birthday bash with celebrities in attendance.

    Spotted at the party were Eddie Watson, Bisola Aiyeola, Kiekie, Nkechi Blessing, Mercy Eke, Brodashaggi, BBNaija Kola, Mide, Mitchy, Isabella, Kayvee, and more.

    During a question-and-answer session at the party, Nkechi Blessing had asked Imisi if she would ever forgive and reconcile with her mother, referencing the reality star’s strained relationship with her birth mother.

    The question drew intense criticism from netizens, who deemed it insensitive and inappropriate.

    In a video message, Nkechi Blessing expressed regret for any offense caused, saying, “I sincerely want to apologise to anybody who got offended by the question I asked Imisi a couple of hours ago at her party. If you find my question offensive, I am sorry. Find a place in your heart to forgive me. Whoever is dragging me, fighting me, abusing me, please don’t be offended”.

    Read Also: Nkechi Blessing cries out after phone number goes viral on Facebook

    She maintained that she was not seeking to stir controversy or chase clout.

    The controversy stems from Imisi’s mother publicly claiming that her daughter had abandoned her after winning the Big Brother Naija show.

    Imisi has since emphasised that she prioritises her family and is taking care of her mother.

    Imisi won the N150 million grand prize in October 2025, beating nine other contestants, including Dede and Koyin, who finished second and third, respectively.

  • Army sustains offensives against terrorists, rescues dozens of kidnapped victims nationwide

    Army sustains offensives against terrorists, rescues dozens of kidnapped victims nationwide

    The Nigerian Army has sustained coordinated offensive operations nationwide in the last 24 hours, neutralising terrorists, destroying camps and rescuing kidnapped victims across several operational theatres.

    A credible military source disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said the troops of 1 Brigade under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, responded to intelligence at Gidan Baushe village, Maradun area of Zamfara where a civilian with gunshot wounds was evacuated.

    He added that troops of 8 Division Garrison Strike Team carried out a dawn offensive into terrorist hideouts in Sububu Forest, destroying several camps and logistics structures after tracking active motorcycle routes.

    According to him, troops fought through an ambush, dominated the general area and recovered military items, including a ballistic helmet, combat boots, woodland camouflage and two Baofeng radios.

    Under Operation MESA in Kogi, the source said that troops of 12 Brigade rescued six kidnapped victims in separate operations across Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas.

    He said that one terrorist was neutralised during a firefight, while injured victims are responding to treatment, as sustained military pressure, including air operations, forced terrorists to abandon some captives.

    Read Also: Army troops neutralise six terrorists in Zamfara

    In Kwara, he said the troops of 22 Brigade, working with DSS and ONSA teams, raided a notorious terrorist enclave in Ifelodun Local Government Area, uncovering and destroying camps, a motorcycle and large quantities of food.

    “Meanwhile, troops of 32 Brigade responded to terrorist attacks around Eleyowo and Ilu Abo communities in Akure North LGA of Ondo State, where two houses were attacked and three civilians killed.

    “Troops pursued the attackers, while injured victims were evacuated by community members and local support groups as security forces continued dominance operations in the affected areas.

    “In Benue, under Operation Whirl Stroke, troops laid an ambush along the Naka–Ahume–Makurdi road in Gwer West Local Government Area, neutralising two terrorists and recovering an AK-47 rifle.

    “Items recovered during the Benue operation included an AK-47 magazine and ammunition, which are currently in military custody for further investigation and follow-up actions,” he said.

    The source said the troops of the Nigerians army would be relentless to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure safety of lives and property nationwide.

    (NAN)

  • ‘Tinubu’s Türkiye visit strategic for counterterrorism, military collaboration’

    ‘Tinubu’s Türkiye visit strategic for counterterrorism, military collaboration’

    A security expert, Ambassador Abayomi Mumuni, has described President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to Türkiye as a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to deepen counterterrorism efforts and expand military collaboration amid growing security challenges.

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, in a statement by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, on Tuesday, said the visit represents more than a routine diplomatic engagement, adding that it offers a timely window to strengthen Nigeria’s long-standing security and defence partnership with Türkiye.

    Mumuni, who served on the intelligence and security team of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 election, said Türkiye’s rising profile in global defence and security cooperation makes it a critical partner for Nigeria, which continues to contend with terrorism, banditry and other transnational threats.

    According to him, while Nigeria and Türkiye have enjoyed decades of cooperation in areas such as trade, education and diplomacy, the current security realities demand a sharper focus on counterterrorism, ammunition supply and military partnerships.

    He noted that Türkiye’s experience in combating terrorism, securing borders and managing complex armed conflicts provide valuable lessons Nigeria can adapt to its own security landscape. Mumuni said Ankara’s blend of operational successes and challenges could help Nigeria strengthen its national security architecture.

    The APC chieftain also called for inclusive and mutually beneficial defence dialogue, arguing that structured military cooperation and ammunition transactions would significantly enhance Nigeria’s capacity to address both internal and external security threats.

    He further urged Nigeria to assert its sovereignty and independence in selecting defence partners, cautioning against undue pressure or restrictive policies from other nations that limit access to critical military assets. 

    Read Also: Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    A dependable partnership with Türkiye, he said, could help Nigeria overcome constraints posed by arms embargoes and procurement bottlenecks.

    He described President Tinubu’s visit as a strong signal of Nigeria’s determination to advance its interests on the global stage, adding that deeper security collaboration with Türkiye would contribute to national stability, territorial integrity and the safety of citizens.

    Mumuni called on Nigerians to support the engagement, saying it has the potential to pave the way for a more secure and prosperous country.

  • Customs, NDLEA smash drug smuggling ring, intercept 347.5kg Canadian loud in Apapa port

    Customs, NDLEA smash drug smuggling ring, intercept 347.5kg Canadian loud in Apapa port

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has swooped on a suspected international drug trafficking ring that specialises in smuggling Canadian loud and other prohibited items into the country through the Lagos Port Complex (LPC), Apapa.

    Findings revealed that 347.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud; a potent strain of cannabis,  hidden inside an imported Toyota Sienna vehicle was intercepted though the joint efforts.

    A detailed weighing of the seized confirmed the breakdown as 10 bags at 25kg each, One at 29kg, and Two at 34.5kg and 34kg respectively, totaling 347.5kg.

    The illicit substance was concealed by the traffickers in 13 bags within one of four vehicles contained in a single import consignment.

    The seizure was made barely 24 hours after the Customs Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, received a World Customs Organisation (WCO) Certificate of Merit. 

    The interception marks the fourth significant joint drug seizure by the NCS and NDLEA at Apapa Port under two months, underscoring Comptroller Oshoba’s firm commitment that no cargo whether import or export will pass through the port without thorough examination.

    According to Oshoba: “Any attempt by criminal elements to traffic prohibited items through Apapa Port will be detected and thwarted. We remain vigilant and resolute in the discharge of our duty to protect our society and national security.”

    The operation , Osoba said, highlights the exemplary inter-agency collaboration championed by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

    “Through intelligence sharing and joint efforts, NCS and NDLEA officers have consistently outmaneuvered smuggling networks in Nigeria’s maritime sector,” Osoba said.

    He noted that the seizure is a direct outcome of this strengthened partnership and emphasised that the upcoming deployment of a high-capacity 200-container-per-hour drive-through scanner will further enhance technology-driven anti-smuggling operations. 

    Both the NCS and NDLEA’s  Standard Operating Procedures continue to foster zero tolerance, unwavering professionalism and seamless cooperation among officers.

    Read Also: World Customs hails Nigeria’s report on ports efficiency

    In line with established protocols, the seized 347.5kg of Canadian Loud has been formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution of associated suspects.

    This latest success builds on the recognition accorded to Comptroller Oshoba and NDLEA Apapa Special Area Commander Mohammed Tukur, who were both awarded the WCO Certificate of Merit on Monday, 26 January 2026, in Abuja as part of activities commemorating the International Customs Day celebrations in Nigeria. 

    This interception, Osoba said, ” aligns with the 2026 ICD theme: “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment.”

    The Area Controller reaffirms the Command’s dedication to facilitating legitimate trade while intensifying efforts to disrupt illicit activities and safeguard society. 

  • Nigeria, Türkiye to fast-track trade, energy, defence ties — Tinubu

    Nigeria, Türkiye to fast-track trade, energy, defence ties — Tinubu

    President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria and Türkiye have agreed to fast-track cooperation in trade, energy and defence to boost jobs, investment and shared prosperity.

    The President disclosed this on Tuesday via his official X handle during his ongoing State Visit to Ankara, Türkiye.

    Tinubu said discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan focused on deepening bilateral relations and delivering tangible economic benefits for citizens of both countries.

    “President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and I reaffirmed our shared ambition, which speaks directly to jobs, investment and opportunity for our people,” the President said.

    He said both leaders agreed on the need to expand trade volumes and remove structural barriers limiting business growth between Nigeria and Türkiye.

    “We are creating a clear pathway to a five-billion-dollar trade volume between Nigeria and Türkiye,” Tinubu stated.

    The President described the talks as practical and forward-looking, driven by mutual interests and shared regional and global responsibilities.

    “Our conversations were practical and forward-looking: trade and investment, energy, education, defence cooperation, peace and security,” he said.

    Tinubu announced the establishment of a Joint Economy and Trade Committee to drive implementation of agreements and attract fresh investments.

    “The creation of a Joint Economy and Trade Committee will unlock new flows of capital,” the President noted.

    He said the committee would also support industrial growth, technology transfer and stronger private sector participation.

    Tinubu welcomed President Erdoğan’s acknowledgement of Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, especially in the energy and investment sectors.

    “I welcome President Erdoğan’s recognition of Nigeria’s reform momentum, particularly in the energy sector,” he said.

    The President said the renewed confidence reflected Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, stability and sustainable economic growth.

    “We are determined to build an economy that works for everyone, including the most vulnerable,” Tinubu added.

    On regional security, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s responsibility to promote peace and stability across Africa.

    Read Also: Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    “Nigeria will continue to play its role in peace and stability in Africa,” the President said.

    He said Türkiye’s expertise in counter-terrorism and defence cooperation would strengthen collective responses to emerging security threats.

    “Türkiye’s experience and readiness to cooperate in training, intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism strengthen our resolve,” he stated.

    Tinubu said nine bilateral agreements were exchanged at the end of the meetings between both leaders.

    The agreements cover defence, education, media cooperation, diaspora policy, trade facilitation, social development and institutional collaboration.

    “Nigeria remains open for serious partnership. Open to trade without barriers, ideas, skills and investment that create value and shared prosperity,” he said.

    Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive growth, peaceful coexistence and active global engagement.

    “We are building an inclusive economy. We are strengthening peace. Nigeria will continue to engage the world with confidence and clarity,” Tinubu said.

    (NAN)

  • Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    Tinubu not first President to stumble – Onoh

    The former Southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of Enugu Assembly, Denge Josef Onoh, has pointed out there is nothing strange about the President’s stumble while on official engagement in Turkey on Tuesday.

    Onoh accused the opposition politicians of engaging in a baseless propaganda, seeking to exploit a minor incident during President Tinubu’s state visit to Turkey.

    Tinubu stumbled while in an official welcome ceremony in Ankara-Turkey, bringing about a media frenzy in Nigeria.

    But Onoh described the brief stumble as an entirely human occurrence that in no way reflects on his vigour, focus, or the significance of the visit.

    He emphasised that such incidents are inherent risks of high office where leaders constantly navigate unfamiliar venues, ceremonial protocols, and gruelling schedules under intense public scrutiny.

    Onoh noted that history is full of similar momentary slips by world leaders, including President Gerald Ford of United States of America who famously tumbled down the steps of Air Force One in Austria in 1975.

    He also recalled that President Joe Biden of USA also tripped multiple times on the stairs of Air Force One in 2021 while President Barack Obama also briefly stumbled while disembarking Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base on March 29, 2015, after returning from a golf trip in Florida.

    Other world leaders he cited to have slipped while in official engagement included the Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was involved in a widely noted slip in 2019; same as the Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro who fell off a stage in 2004 and former U.S. Vice President, Mike Pence, who had a similar stumble while boarding Air Force Two.

    These examples, Onoh said, serve as reminders that even the most accomplished leaders are human and prone to occasional missteps.

    Addressing the cause of the incident, Onoh referenced explanations from the President’s team that it stemmed from a poorly laid blue carpet at the ceremony venue, creating an uneven surface and causing a brief loss of footing.

    “It is not any health-related issue. President Tinubu quickly regained his composure, received assistance, and continued seamlessly with his program,” Onoh said. 

    Onoh stressed that the minor mishap did not hinder the visit’s core objectives: strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria and Turkey, boosting trade, investment, defense cooperation, and infrastructure opportunities that directly benefit Nigeria and its people. 

    Read Also: ‘Economic model under Tinubu to drive higher GDP’

    The President proceeded with scheduled bilateral meetings with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other senior officials, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience.

    “In the service of Nigeria,” Onoh concluded, “any small personal discomfort a leader endures—whether a stumble or greater sacrifice—is worthwhile if it advances the greater good of our country and its citizens. True leaders embrace such moments as part of their noble duty to place national interest above all else.”

    He urged the opposition and all political actors to channel their energies constructively: rather than fixating on fleeting incidents or amplifying them for partisan gain. 

    He asked them to offer substantive alternatives, propose viable solutions to national challenges, and contribute meaningfully to progress—instead of opposing everything while proposing nothing.

    Onoh reaffirmed that President Tinubu remains in great shape and fully dedicated to delivering for Nigerians, calling on all to rally around the bigger picture of shared prosperity and unity.

  • Hearing stalled in EFCC’s suit seeking Malami’s assets forfeiture

    Hearing stalled in EFCC’s suit seeking Malami’s assets forfeiture

    The planned hearing of a suit the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed for the forfeiture of 57 properties linked to a former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, was stalled yesterday before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

    On January 6, Justice Emeka Nwite had issued an order for the interim forfeiture of the landed property said to be located in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna states.

    Justice Nwite had granted the order while ruling on an ex parte motion by the EFCC, which was moved by its lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho (SAN).

    In the ruling, Justice Nwite also directed the publication of the interim order of forfeiture in any national daily for any person(s) or body (ies) who might have an interest in the property to appear before the court and show cause within 14 days of the publication, why a final order of forfeiture to the Federal Government should not be made.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Turkiye target $5b trade, pact against insurgency

    The judge had adjourned till yesterday for the EFCC to report compliance, but the case was not listed on the court’s cause list for yesterday.

    At the commencement of the court’s sitting yesterday, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), who led a team of lawyers for the EFCC, told the court that the case was adjourned till yesterday to enable the EFCC to report compliance with the earlier court orders.

    Okutepa said when he enquired from the court’s registrar why the case was not listed, he was told it was a vacation case.

    The counsel urged the court to hear the case since it was listed for hearing yesterday.

    Justice Nwite told Okutepa that it is the court’s tradition to return to the Chief Judge all cases heard during the court’s vacation at the end of the vacation period for the CJ to reassign such cases.

    The judge added: “I think you will have to pursue this administratively so that you can bring this (case) to his (CJ’s) notice to fast-track the process.”

    He said the EFCC would be informed when the CJ reassigns the case to his court.

  • Omokri accuses Obi of fomenting division across political parties

    Omokri accuses Obi of fomenting division across political parties

    Former presidential aide and political commentator, Reno Omokri, has accused the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, of leaving a trail of divisions and internal crises across political parties he has been associated with.

    In a post yesterday on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Omokri alleged that Obi’s political journey has been marked by factionalism and infighting.

    The activist recalled that Obi’s alleged creation of division in parties started from his early days in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Omokri stated that Obi was politically groomed by the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu but later fell out with the party’s leadership, a development he claimed led to deep internal divisions within APGA.

    He also alleged that Obi’s exit from the party was followed by internal disputes.

    According to him, Obi caused similar turmoil after moving to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he insisted on contesting against his former political associates, a move he said contributed to internal rifts within the party.

    Read Also: Tax: Banks can’t debit account without owner’s consent

    Omokri further claimed that Obi’s defection to the LP ahead of the 2023 general election resulted in the party splitting into two factions, each producing its national leadership and National Executive Committee (NEC).

    The commentator noted that Obi joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on December 31, last year, and alleged that tensions have already surfaced within the party, citing comments by the opposition platform’s official spokesperson who reportedly described the Obidient movement as “divisive”.

    Omokri also raised questions about Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State between 2006 and 2014, alleging that poverty levels increased during his tenure and claiming that no new public educational institutions were established under his administration.

    Besides, the public commentator alluded to past allegations of human rights abuses linked to security operations in Anambra State during Obi’s time in office.

    He queried Obi’s ability to handle national security if elected president.

    “Having gone through four political parties with the same outcome of division and factionalism, the question is whether the problem lies with the parties or with Peter Obi,” Omokri wrote.

  • Omidiran assumes office as FCC Executive Chairman

    Omidiran assumes office as FCC Executive Chairman

    • Ex-acting Chair Oladele hands over

    The former acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Kayode Oladele, yesterday formally handed over the affairs of the commission to the newly appointed Executive Chairman, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

    Last Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu swore in Omidiran.

    Oladele served as Acting Chairman from July 2, last year, following the exit of the immediate past substantive Executive Chairman, Muheeba Farida Dankaka.

    In her acceptance remarks, Omidiran expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and hailed Oladele for his leadership during his nearly seven-month tenure.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Turkiye target $5b trade, pact against insurgency

    “I accept this responsibility with a profound sense of honour and commitment. I sincerely appreciate Kayode Oladele for his dedication, stability, and efforts in steering the commission over the past almost seven months,” Omidiran said.

    She noted that Oladele’s stewardship ensured continuity and institutional balance, applauding the cooperation and professionalism that characterised the transition process.

    Assuring commissioners and management of inclusive leadership, the new Executive Chairman reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, fairness, and national cohesion.

    “I look forward to working closely with all commissioners and the management team to strengthen the commission and effectively deliver on our constitutional mandate,” said Omidiran, who represented Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019.

    Following the handover, Omidiran formally submitted the official handover documents to the commission’s Verification Committee for review and documentation.

    The executive chairman also announced the constitution of various statutory and ad hoc committees aimed at strengthening internal processes and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the FCC.

    The event was attended by the Secretary of the commission, Mohammed Musa, state commissioners, key stakeholders, and members of the media.

  • NBGN urges AfCFTA expertise for new ambassadors

    NBGN urges AfCFTA expertise for new ambassadors

    The NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN) has called on the Federal Government to ensure that newly appointed Nigerian ambassadors possess strong knowledge and practical understanding of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    The group made the call following the recent screening of ambassadors by the National Assembly, noting that Nigeria’s diplomatic representation must be strategically aligned with AfCFTA objectives at a time when African economies are increasingly focused on intra-African trade, regional value chains, and economic resilience.

    According to NBGN, ambassadors are no longer merely political representatives but economic diplomats whose performance should be measured by their ability to promote trade, attract investment, and expand market access for Nigerian businesses.

    NBGN noted that AfCFTA represents a $3.4 trillion market of more than 1.4 billion people, presenting Nigeria with significant opportunities to grow exports, attract investment, deepen industrialisation, and create jobs.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Turkiye target $5b trade, pact against insurgency

    However, it warned that these benefits can only be fully realised if Nigeria’s foreign missions are led by ambassadors who are conversant with AfCFTA rules, protocols, trade remedies, non-tariff barrier mechanisms, and regional trade frameworks.

    Drawing from outcomes of its 2025 High-Level Business Forum on mobilising Africa’s private sector for AfCFTA, NBGN outlined key roles Nigerian ambassadors should play, including promoting Nigerian products and services across AfCFTA markets, supporting businesses to navigate trade regulations and standards, engaging host countries on trade facilitation and dispute resolution, and working closely with business membership organisations and private sector stakeholders to unlock concrete trade and investment opportunities.

    The group further urged the Federal Government to institute structured AfCFTA orientation and capacity-building programmes for newly appointed ambassadors, in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, AUDA-NEPAD, and private sector stakeholders, to strengthen coherence between Nigeria’s foreign policy and economic development goals.

    “The success of AfCFTA will not be determined solely by policies agreed at the continental level, but by how effectively countries deploy their institutions and representatives to implement them,” NBGN said, adding that Nigeria’s ambassadors must be equipped to serve as frontline drivers of intra-African trade, investment promotion, and private sector competitiveness.

    NBGN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government through policy advisory services, private sector engagement, and evidence-based advocacy to ensure Nigeria plays a leading role in AfCFTA implementation and Africa’s broader economic transformation.