National

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast under Operation UDO KA have thwarted a suspected kidnap attack and rescued five victims during a swift response on February 20, 2026.

The incident took place around 6:55 p.m. at the 9th Mile axis within the 82 Division Area of Responsibility. Security sources said the troops acted on a distress call that indicated a suspected attack by IPOB/ESN elements targeting commuters heading towards Anambra State.

Military personnel moved quickly to the location and confronted the armed group. On arrival, they engaged the attackers with force, which forced the suspects to retreat into nearby bushes.

The operation led to the safe rescue of five kidnapped individuals. None of the victims sustained injuries. Troops also recovered the vehicle used to convey them, which was found intact.

After the rescue, security forces intensified patrols across the area. The move is aimed at tracking down fleeing suspects and preventing any attempt by the attackers to regroup. Authorities said the continued presence of troops has helped to reassure residents and commuters while weakening criminal activities in the area.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its determination to protect lives and secure major routes across the Southeast. It also called on members of the public to support security agencies by sharing timely and credible information to help sustain peace and stability in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has restated its resolve to reinforce its strategic defence relationship with Pakistan as both countries confront changing security threats.

This is contained in a statement issued by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, on 20 February 2026.

The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, gave the assurance on Friday, 20 February 2026, when he hosted Pakistan’s Defence Adviser to Nigeria, Colonel Kamran Mushtaq, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

General Shaibu described the military ties between Nigeria and Pakistan as strong and mutually beneficial. He pointed to wider prospects in joint exercises, intelligence cooperation, defence technology and operational support as key areas that require further attention. He said stronger collaboration in these fields would improve coordination between both armies and raise their ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.

The Army Chief also praised the long-standing relationship between the two forces. He referred to their similar experiences in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. He stressed the value of sustained professional military education and capacity development. According to him, several Nigerian officers have undergone advanced courses in Pakistan, while arrangements are underway for Pakistani officers to attend programmes at the National Defence College. He added that closer intelligence ties and strategic defence procurement are essential to improve Nigeria’s operational preparedness and combat strength.

In his remarks, Colonel Mushtaq delivered goodwill messages from Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces. He commended the Nigerian Army for its discipline and achievements in various operations. Drawing on Pakistan’s experience of more than two decades in counter-terrorism campaigns, he expressed his country’s willingness to expand cooperation through specialised training, technical support and the supply of key equipment such as advanced surveillance and communication systems.

Both delegations reaffirmed their dedication to joint professional training and exchange initiatives. They noted that such programmes are crucial for improving operational coordination and strengthening their joint response to regional and cross-border security challenges.

No fewer than 117 former insurgents have concluded the Federal Government’s de-radicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor in Borno State.

The development was announced during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the leadership of Operation Safe Corridor at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said the coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Y. Ali, disclosed that the ex-combatants completed the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DRR) process at the Mallam Sidi Camp.

According to Ali, the meeting focused on finalising arrangements for the transfer of the rehabilitated individuals to their respective national and state authorities for reintegration into society. He noted that the latest development reflects improved cooperation between federal and state governments in the areas of reception, monitoring and community reintegration.

Ali commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oloyede, for what he described as strong leadership and institutional backing. He stated that the progress recorded by Operation Safe Corridor aligns with the CDS philosophy, which promotes enhanced jointness, improved welfare and effective administration within a whole-of-government structure.

He explained that the initiative operates as a multi-agency humanitarian stabilisation programme supported by the 1999 Constitution and relevant international humanitarian and human rights frameworks. The programme draws personnel from 17 services, ministries, departments and agencies.

Since its establishment, he said the initiative has strengthened its screening procedures, reviewed its ideological disengagement modules, enhanced psychosocial recovery systems and expanded coordination among participating agencies. He added that the structure of the programme prioritises accountability, behavioural reform and sustainable reintegration.

Ali also disclosed that the programme has extended to the North-West region. A DRR camp established there in February last year marked what he described as an important stabilisation step. He revealed ongoing discussions with the Zamfara State Government to reposition the facility towards a broader framework that will focus on victim healing, rehabilitation and reintegration, alongside psychosocial recovery, community reconciliation, livelihood assistance and structured monitoring.

He further stated that Benue State has formally requested the establishment of a DRR camp. He said the Defence Headquarters has inspected proposed locations and advised that any approval must align with national standards on infrastructure, security and sustainability.

Ali outlined the objectives of the stakeholders’ meeting. He said participants were expected to define the responsibilities of state authorities and relevant ministries, departments and agencies, develop structured resettlement support systems, determine approaches for community sensitisation and camp visitation, and approve graduation timelines for rehabilitated clients.

The Chief of Defence Staff, represented by Jamal Abdusalam, Chief of Defence Operations, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive government and societal approach to peacebuilding and national recovery. He described Operation Safe Corridor as a vital component of the country’s security framework.

“Since its inception in 2016, operation safe corridor has processed thousands of clients through a controlled and integrity-driven disarmament, rehabilitation and reintegration framework,” he said.

“When properly screened and coordinated, surrender pathways degrade insurgent cohesion, generate actionable intelligence and support long-term stability.”

The meeting attracted representatives from federal ministries, the Office of the National Security Adviser, state governments and neighbouring countries including Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger and Cameroon. International partners such as Norway, the United Kingdom, the European Union, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Organisation for Migration were also represented.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has called for the establishment of a media station of national and international standard in Northern Nigeria.

Pantami made the appeal during a Tafsir session yesterday evening.

He stressed that the proposed platform should broadcast in English, French and other major global languages. According to him, such an outlet would help correct negative narratives and stereotypes about the region and project its true image to the world.

He explained that creating strong and strategic institutions of that nature is, in certain situations, more crucial than building additional places of worship in communities where they are already adequate.

The cleric’s remarks have attracted support from many who believe the region needs a stronger voice in the global media space.

However, observers say the major obstacle lies in preparedness and commitment. They argue that the North has not yet demonstrated the level of unity and readiness required to execute a project of that scale.

Some believe it could take several decades before the necessary structure and coordination are achieved.

Analysts also note that the vision may only become reality sooner if a well-placed individual or organisation takes the initiative and provides the needed support. They maintain that while there is agreement on the importance of the idea, collective action has remained limited.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Borno State Police Command has paid out N20,137,770.34 to families of officers who died while serving the nation.

The amount was released to nine beneficiaries under the Group Life Insurance Scheme. The presentation took place during a cheque handover ceremony. According to the command, the support is meant to assist the families with education, healthcare and other welfare needs.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Nahum Daso, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ibrahim Sumaila, stood in for the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, at the ceremony. He also delivered a message from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The message stressed that the Force places high value on the welfare of its personnel and their families.

“The Group Life Insurance Scheme is a testament to the IGP’s commitment to supporting officers who made the ultimate sacrifice for national peace and security,” DCP Sumaila said. He advised the beneficiaries to make careful use of the money.

A representative of the families, Mr. Modu Ishaku, expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General for the support. He assured that the funds would be used judiciously.

This payment comes after a similar exercise in January 2026, when about N18.38 million was distributed to another nine families of fallen officers.

The Group Life Assurance Scheme provides financial assistance to families of deceased police personnel across the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked the German government to provide used helicopters to support intelligence and reconnaissance operations in the Sahel region.

The request came during a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday. This was disclosed in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The discussion centered on ways to deepen security collaboration between Nigeria and Germany.

Onanuga said both leaders showed concern about the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel corridor. He stated, “The two leaders also expressed worry over the situation in the Sahel region. President Tinubu called for the supply of used helicopters to help in intelligence reconnaissance in the region.”

Quoting the President further, he added, “The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed.”

Security was not the only issue addressed. Talks also covered Nigeria’s electricity sector, with emphasis on the Presidential Power Initiative. Tinubu stressed the country’s need for support in power transmission.

In response, Chancellor Merz assured that Siemens would offer technical assistance, while Deutsche Bank would show readiness to finance the project.

Onanuga noted that both sides also discussed partnerships in other sectors. According to him, “the two leaders also expressed their willingness to cooperate in creative arts and skill development”.

Railway cooperation also formed part of the conversation, alongside collaboration in arts and vocational development.

Merz spoke about diplomatic relations as well. He said, “Germany is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany.”

Onanuga added that the German leader highlighted cultural cooperation. “He also spoke about the importance of the arts and called for the establishment of the Great Museum of African Arts,” he said.

The phone call started at 2:01 p.m. and ended at about 2:10 p.m., the statement concluded.

By Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam

Politics is often debated in abstract terms of strategy and alignment. But sometimes, it is written in the language of the streets, the markets and the stadiums.

The formal reception of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC) was one such moment, but to define it merely as a “defection” is to miss the profound human story at its core.

From the moment the Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Kashim Shettima’s delegation touched down at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, it was clear this was not a routine political event; it was a historic convergence of federal intent and grassroots will.

The journey to the Sani Abacha Stadium was, in itself, a powerful political narrative. The first stop was not a politician’s lounge, but the fire-ravaged Singer Market. There, amidst the charred remains of shops and livelihoods, the Vice President Shettima delivered more than just a condolence message, where he also announced a concrete federal commitment of ₦5 billion to support the affected traders. This was not a symbolic politics; it was governance meeting grief with action.

For the traders of Kano, this single act transformed a political realignment into a tangible promise of partnership. It signaled that Kano’s alignment with the centre has already started yielding immediate, practical and tangible support for its people in their moment of need.

From the market, the procession to the stadium became a rolling testament to the depth of this new alliance. The mammoth crowd that lined the streets and filled the venue was not a rented gathering. It was a cross-section of Kano’s very soul. This massive turnout was more than a welcome party; it was a clear and potent signal of electoral mathematics. Public energy of that magnitude rarely gathers around symbolism alone; it gathers around expectation. It was a strong indication that the APC, now fortified with Governor Yusuf’s leadership and grassroots structure, is poised for a landslide in 2027.

The message from the crowd was unambiguous. The coast is clear for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to secure Kano’s votes, for Governor Abba to secure a second term, and for the party to sweep elections from the National Assembly down to the State Assembly.
In his address, Governor Yusuf framed the move not as a personal ambition, but as a strategic decision to bring Kano into the “mainstream of our national politics” and align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The logic is undeniable. Kano, as the North’s commercial and demographic powerhouse, has often been held back by being at odds with the federal government. This realignment changes that equation overnight. It means Kano will no longer be a political outlier but a primary beneficiary of federal infrastructure, economic investment, and developmental programmes. It means a direct pipeline from the Renewed Hope Train to the heart of Kano. This is what “Kano First with Renewed Hope” truly means. It means a new compact where federal power is not a distant concept but a present partner in progress. The foundation has been laid, not in sand, but in the solidarity of its people. Now, the work of building a greater Kano begins.

Dr. S.S. Imam is a senior researcher and a political analyst from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. He can be reached via: saifaz2005@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to forgive him for any wrong he may have done to them, as Muslims commence the holy month of Ramadan. He also urged citizens to embrace peace, unity, and moral rebirth during the sacred period.

The president made the appeal on Wednesday at the opening session of this year’s Tafsir held at the State House mosque in Abuja.

In his remarks, Tinubu drew attention to the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season. He described the overlap as a reflection of shared spiritual values among Nigerians of different faiths.

“Ramadan coincides with Lent, reminding us of our common commitment to sacrifice, discipline, prayer, and self-denial,” he said.

He stressed that the lessons of Ramadan should shape human conduct and relationships. According to him, the period should promote compassion, love, and forgiveness among citizens.

“We start this Ramadan with all the teaching that it brings to us all. But the main principle is to do good to people, to share love and faith, and to forgive sins. I say, if I have sinned, forgive me as Nigerians.”

Tinubu further noted that fasting should not be limited to abstaining from food and drink. He explained that it should reflect kindness, good deeds, forgiveness, and love for humanity.

The president also appealed to Nigerians, regardless of religious background, to offer prayers for national peace. He asked citizens to support government efforts aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges facing the country.

Speaking at the event, Abdulwahid Suleiman, the Chief Imam of the State House mosque, expressed gratitude to Allah for granting Muslims the opportunity to witness another Ramadan.

He commended Tinubu’s leadership and offered prayers for divine guidance, sound health, and strength for the president and members of his administration. He also prayed for peace, stability, and prosperity across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The State Security Service (SSS) on Wednesday night took former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after his release from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

El-Rufai had been held by the anti-graft agency since Monday over allegations of corruption. He was granted bail around 8 p.m. on Wednesday. Witnesses said armed SSS operatives were already stationed at the EFCC headquarters and moved in immediately after his release.

Security agents then transported him to the SSS headquarters located in the Asokoro District of Abuja. As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not indicated when he might regain freedom.

His latest arrest is tied to allegations that he illegally intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.

Earlier on Monday, the SSS filed cybercrime charges against him before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, followed comments he made during a live interview on Arise Television last Friday.

During the programme, El-Rufai alleged that the NSA’s telephone line had been tapped. He claimed he overheard instructions directing security operatives to detain him. He linked those alleged directives to an incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where security personnel attempted to arrest him upon his return from Cairo, Egypt, last Thursday.

Eyewitnesses recalled that the encounter at the airport became heated. Officials briefly seized his international passport and later escorted him out while supporters chanted nearby.

Following the television interview, prosecutors from the SSS filed charges, accusing him of admitting to intercepting the NSA’s communications. The prosecution also alleged that he failed to report others involved in unlawful interceptions. Authorities further claimed his actions endangered public safety and national security through the use of technical systems to monitor the NSA’s phone.

Investigators said the alleged offences contravene provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, as well as the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. A date for arraignment has not yet been announced, and El-Rufai has not issued a public response to the charges.

Developments Leading To Arrest

Recent events began unfolding after his return to Nigeria from Cairo. Security operatives first attempted to detain him at the Abuja airport shortly after arrival.

Video clips that circulated online showed a confrontation between security officials and members of his entourage. Reports indicated that his passport was confiscated during that episode.

El-Rufai later accused the NSA of ordering the attempted arrest through the SSS. He repeated the allegation during his Arise Television appearance, insisting he had knowledge of the directive through intercepted communication.

His lawyer, Ubong Akpan, criticised the airport incident. He described the attempted arrest as arbitrary and a breach of constitutional rights. The lawyer explained that an EFCC invitation had been delivered to his client’s residence while he was outside the country. He said immediate compliance was not possible under those circumstances.

Akpan added that his client formally notified the EFCC of his readiness to honour the invitation voluntarily upon return, scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday. He also demanded the return of El-Rufai’s passport. He argued that its seizure violated his client’s dignity, movement rights, and constitutional protections. He warned that legal steps would follow any unlawful detention.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has signed a new executive order directing the direct remittance of oil and gas revenues into the Federation Account, in a move aimed at protecting national earnings and improving fiscal transparency.

This is contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, today.

According to Onanuga, the directive, issued under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), is designed to block revenue leakages, cut wasteful spending, and dismantle overlapping structures within the petroleum sector. The administration said the policy will channel more resources toward national development priorities.

The order draws authority from Section 44(3) of the Constitution, which places ownership and control of all minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas in Nigeria under the Federal Government, including resources located in territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone.

According to the State House, the measure seeks to restore constitutional revenue allocations due to federal, state, and local governments. Officials argued that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 created fiscal and structural channels that reduced remittances through multiple deductions and charges.

Under the existing framework, NNPC Limited retains 30 percent of Federation oil revenue as a management fee from Profit Oil and Profit Gas derived from Production Sharing Contracts, Profit Sharing Contracts, and Risk Service Contracts. The company also keeps 20 percent of its profits for working capital and future investments.

Government officials maintained that the additional 30 percent management retention is unjustified because the 20 percent profit retention already supports operational needs.

The statement further explained that NNPC Limited deducts another 30 percent of profit oil and gas as the Frontier Exploration Fund under Sections 9(4) and (5) of the PIA. Authorities expressed concern that such a large allocation to exploratory activities could create idle cash reserves and encourage inefficient spending, especially when public funds are required for security, education, healthcare, and energy transition programmes.

The government also reviewed the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), financed through gas flaring penalties under Section 104 of the PIA. It noted that Section 103 of the same law had already established an Environmental Remediation Fund for host communities affected by petroleum operations. Officials described the dual funding structure as duplicative.

Authorities said these deductions collectively divert more than two-thirds of potential oil revenue away from the Federation Account. They linked declining net oil inflows to the present deduction regime and fragmented oversight system.

The executive order introduces reforms to remove overlapping deductions, particularly the 30 percent allocations tied to profit-sharing arrangements. The goal is to ensure that revenues due to the Federation are fully remitted to support national obligations across all tiers of government.

President Tinubu also raised structural concerns about NNPC Limited’s role as a concessionaire in Production Sharing Contracts. The government believes the present arrangement allows the company to influence operating costs while functioning as a commercial entity. Officials said this dual role creates competitive imbalances and weakens its transition into a fully commercial operator under the PIA.

The order therefore establishes measures to curb financial leakages, improve transparency, and reposition NNPC Limited strictly along commercial lines while protecting public revenue.

The President described the reforms as urgent due to their implications for national budgeting, debt management, economic stability, and citizens’ welfare. He added that his administration will conduct a comprehensive review of the Petroleum Industry Act in consultation with stakeholders to address fiscal and structural gaps.

Under the gazetted order, NNPC Limited will no longer manage the 30 percent Frontier Exploration Fund. All profit allocations previously assigned to the fund from production sharing and related contracts will now be transferred directly to the Federation Account.

The company will also cease collecting the 30 percent management fee on profit oil and gas meant for the Federation.

In addition, all oil and gas operators under production sharing arrangements must remit Royalty Oil, Tax Oil, Profit Oil, Profit Gas, and all other government-due revenues straight to the Federation Account with effect from February 13, 2026.

The President has also halted payments of gas flaring penalties into the MDGIF. Going forward, proceeds from such penalties will be paid into the Federation Account. Any spending from the MDGIF must comply with existing public procurement regulations.

Tinubu approved the creation of a joint project team to coordinate integrated petroleum operations. The designated commission will interface with license holders where upstream and midstream activities are combined.

An Implementation Committee has also been constituted to supervise execution of the order. Members include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil).

Other members are the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, a representative of the Ministry of Justice, the President’s Special Adviser on Energy, and the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, who will serve as committee secretariat.