News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Air Force has paid compensation to victims and families affected by the accidental airstrike that occurred on December 25, 2024, in Sokoto State.

Those affected are residents of Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

Speaking during the compensation exercise, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who was represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, thanked the Sokoto State Government for sustaining cordial relations between the Air Force and local communities.

He praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his inclusive development approach and security initiatives under the 9-Point Smart Agenda, with specific reference to the creation of the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps.

According to him, the governor’s community-based security efforts have strengthened federal operations against terrorism and banditry, improved safety in parts of the state and underscored the value of effective civil-military cooperation.

Aneke explained that the airstrike was carried out under Operation Fasan Yamma following intelligence reports that suspected armed terrorists were moving through the affected areas.

He said the operation followed several intelligence checks, but a petition submitted in April 2025 later raised concerns about civilian casualties.

“A thorough fact-finding investigation confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed and eight others sustained various degrees of injuries.

“The findings deeply saddened the Service and necessitated urgent steps to make amends,” he said.

The air chief stated that since he assumed office on October 24, the prevention of civilian harm has remained central to his leadership philosophy.

He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force exists to protect lives and property, adding that no professional military intentionally targets the people it is mandated to defend.

According to him, the compensation exercise was designed to console the affected families, promote transparency and accountability, ease tensions and bring closure, while also allowing the service to draw lessons to reduce the chances of similar incidents in the future.

Aneke revealed that the Air Force has continued to put structures in place to prevent and address civilian harm, including the introduction of the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan.

He said the framework is intended to strengthen operational planning, improve assessments and investigations, encourage continuous learning and ensure prompt response whenever civilian harm occurs.

He added that the plan applies to both kinetic and non-kinetic operations, with the protection and restoration of the civilian environment recognised as a key operational priority.

The air chief reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to the precise and deliberate use of force against terrorists and criminal groups.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United States has unveiled a major financial commitment to Christian faith-based healthcare providers in Nigeria following the signing of a new five-year bilateral health cooperation agreement valued at $5.1 billion.

The development was announced in a statement released on Sunday by the US Mission in Nigeria through its official X handle. The agreement, formally known as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), was presented as part of broader efforts to advance Washington’s America First Global Health Strategy.

“The United States signed a five-year, $5.1B bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Republic of Nigeria to advance the America First Global Health Strategy,” the statement said.

According to the US Mission, a central feature of the agreement is the provision of direct financial support to Christian faith-based health institutions operating across Nigeria.

“The MOU includes approximately $200M in dedicated support to more than 900 Christian faith-based healthcare facilities, expanding access to integrated HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal and child health services,” it said.

The Mission stressed that Christian healthcare providers play a significant role in Nigeria’s health system, especially in communities that remain difficult to access.

“Christian faith-based clinics represent about 10% of providers in Nigeria but serve more than 30% of Nigeria’s 230 million people, often in underserved areas,” it said.

The statement further explained that the funding intervention comes at a critical time, as Nigeria continues to struggle with serious public health concerns affecting women and children.

By Uzair Adam

The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), Mbale Campus, has honoured the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Professor Salisu Shehu, in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of education across the African continent.

The Daily Reality reports that the honour was conferred during the institution’s 34th Graduation Ceremony, held at its Mbale Campus, attended by university officials, graduating students, and invited guests.

At the event, the Rector of the university, Associate Professor Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, presented Professor Shehu with a plaque inscribed: “Your continued support spices our corporate growth”.

Professor Gyagenda acknowledged his role in supporting the university’s academic development and institutional progress.

Professor Shehu, a seasoned educationist and academic administrator, currently heads NERDC, Nigeria’s statutory body charged with curriculum development, educational research, and the coordination of national education standards.

In this capacity, he has been involved in initiatives aimed at strengthening curriculum delivery and promoting collaboration among educational institutions within and outside Nigeria.

The recognition by the Ugandan university reflects Professor Shehu’s engagement with higher education institutions across Africa and underscores the growing importance of cross-border academic cooperation in addressing shared educational challenges on the continent.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has assured Nigerians that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour recently recalled in France is neither produced in Nigeria nor sold in the country.

The clarification followed widespread public concern after reports circulated online about the recall of the product by the French authority, Rappel Conso of France, over the presence of undeclared allergens, namely milk and eggs.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency confirmed that the affected product did not originate from Nigeria and is not registered for sale in the Nigerian market. It added that surveillance had been activated nationwide to ensure the product does not find its way into the country.

The statement read, “The management of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is aware of the recall of Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour by the French authority (Rappel Conso of France) on account of the presence of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs, which may pose significant health risks to consumers with allergies or intolerances.”

NAFDAC explained that the agency had taken precautionary steps as a regulatory body to prevent any possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria.

“In light of this development, NAFDAC has undertaken some proactive measures as a responsive regulator by ensuring increased vigilance actions to guard against the possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria,” the statement added.

The agency disclosed that its officers across the country had received directives to remain alert and seize the product if discovered anywhere within their jurisdictions.

“Surveillance has been directed across all zones and states, and zonal directors and state coordinators have been mandated to mop up the product if found within their jurisdictions,” it stated.

NAFDAC further stressed that the specific Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour involved in the recall is not authorised for sale in Nigeria.

“The public is hereby informed that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour in question is not registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for sale in Nigeria,” the agency said.

It also pointed out that noodles remain on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, a factor that limits the possibility of the affected product entering the Nigerian market.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the renaming of the Federal University of Medical Sciences, Azare, to Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi University of Medical Sciences, Azare.

The change honours the legacy of the late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, a highly respected Islamic scholar and elder statesman who passed away in 2025. He was widely known for his vast teachings, philanthropic works, and efforts in promoting peace.

The presidential announcement directs all relevant government agencies and the institution’s leadership to ensure a smooth transition to the new name.

The university, located in Bauchi State, specializes in medical and health sciences education.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for his administration’s focus on impactful projects in education, health, and transportation.

The President made the remarks on Saturday in Maiduguri during an official tour, where he commissioned several new projects.

The commissioned facilities include the international wing of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport, a new VIP extension, and a fleet of Electric Vehicles, intra-state buses, and tricycles. He also inaugurated three model schools covering primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary levels.

“I am commissioning this primary, junior secondary school and senior secondary schools to the glory of God, and continuous education of our children,” President Tinubu stated.

The visit also featured a cultural dimension as the President participated in the marriage ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff. In line with Kanuri tradition, President Tinubu stood in as the father of the groom, while Governor Zulum acted as the father of the bride to receive the traditional bride price in gold coins.

The ceremony was held at the Maiduguri Central Mosque and hosted by the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi.The events were attended by seven state governors, senators, and ministers.

President Tinubu departed Maiduguri for Bauchi State at 3.25 pm.

By Anwar Usman

The Bauchi State Government has announced its plans to temporarily close and divert of some major roads within the metropolis ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s condolence visit to the state.

The government said the President is expected in Bauchi to commiserate with the family and followers of the late renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.

This was disclosed in a statement issued late Friday by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado.

According to the statement, the affected riads include major roads leading to the Sheikh Dahiru Baushi’s mosque and other strategic locations, which will be closed or diverted between 1pm and 6pm on Saturday for security and traffic control purposes.

Gidado explained that the measures were adopted to ensure the safety of people in the State and the smooth conduct of the presidential engagement.

“The public is hereby notified that some major routes leading to the Sheikh’s mosque and other key locations will be temporarily closed or diverted from 1pm to 6pm for traffic control and security reasons.

“These measures are purely for safety and effective traffic management during the President’s visit,” the statement read.

He urged residents of the state to plan their movements accordingly, obey traffic instructions, avoid restricted areas during the period and cooperate fully with security agencies deployed across the state.

The government also appealed to residents to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly during the visit.

Recall that, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday announced that Tinubu would depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-state visit to Borno, Bauchi and Lagos states.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will begin a three-state visit tomorrow, Saturday, before settling in Lagos for the end-of-year holidays.

His journey will first take him to Maiduguri, Borno State, where he will commission projects executed by Governor Babagana Zulum in collaboration with the Federal Government. During his stay, the President will also attend the wedding of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno Governor Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, to Hadiza Kam Salem.

The President will then travel to Bauchi State on a condolence visit. He will pay his respects to the state government and the family of the late revered Muslim cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood, who passed away on November 27.

Following the visit to Bauchi, President Tinubu will proceed to Lagos, where he is scheduled to spend the Christmas and New Year holidays.

His itinerary in Lagos includes several engagements, notably as the Special Guest of Honour at the Eyo Festival on December 27.

The event, to be held at Tafawa Balewa Square, will pay tribute to notable personalities, including the President’s late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, as well as former Lagos State Governors Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has approved sweeping improvements to teachers’ service conditions, including raising the retirement age to 65 years.

Effective August 1, 2025, the mandatory retirement age for teachers increases from 60 to 65, while the service years cap extends from 35 to 40.

The government also approved a new special allowance for teachers deployed to rural and hard-to-reach areas.

The move implements the federal Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022, which acknowledges the pivotal role of educators in national development.

State Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, stated the policy underscores Governor Sani’s dedication to worker welfare and educational revitalisation. He emphasised that retaining experienced teachers is crucial for quality education and improved learning outcomes.

A formal circular detailing the approval has been issued by the Governor’s Office and signed by the Permanent Secretary (Establishment), Mrs. Felicia I. Makama. The State Civil Service Commission will release further implementation guidelines.

Governor Sani expressed optimism that the reforms will enhance teacher motivation, improve retention rates, and significantly raise educational standards statewide.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerian soldiers who were earlier held by authorities in Burkina Faso have arrived at an Air Force base in Accra, Ghana, as arrangements continue for their onward movement to Portugal.

The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the development in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.

According to Ejodame, the Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft was already scheduled to travel to Portugal for depot maintenance, with stopovers planned in Banjul and Casablanca. He added that the aircraft and its crew remained in good condition.

“The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, which made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, has safely arrived in Accra, Ghana, ahead of its onward journey to Portugal,” Ejodame said.

He reassured Nigerians that safety standards were fully observed throughout the incident.

“We will continue to operate to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. We thank Nigerians for their concern and support during the precautionary event,” Ejodame said.

The soldiers were detained after the aircraft made a forced landing in Burkina Faso, which led to their temporary holding by the ruling junta in the Sahel country.

Burkina Faso has since released the Nigerian Air Force aircraft along with 11 personnel, bringing the incident to a close as the crew proceeds with its planned mission.