News

By Anwar Usman

The Special Protection Unit of the Nigeria Police Force has instructed all officers attached to VIPs and beats nationwide to return to their bases.

This was as a result of a directive issued on November 23 by President Bola Tinubu, who ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers assigned to VIP security across the country.

In a memo signed by the Commanding Officer of SPU Base 16 in Lagos, Neji Veronica, and shared on Tuesday by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, on X, all affected officers were instructed to report back before the close of business on November 24.

The memo reads, “Sequel to the directive of Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs, the Commanding Officer directs, with immediate effect, the withdrawal of all personnel of SPU Base 16 attached to VIPs/Beats across the federation back to base.

“You are all warned to report back before the end of today, Monday, 24/11/2025, and all to attend the lecture parade tomorrow. Attendance shall be taken from the nominal roll. This is for your information and strict compliance.”

Under the new setting, the president said VIPs in need of security protection will now need to request armed personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), rather than relying on police officers.

The Presidency explained that the move aims to boost police presence in communities, especially in remote areas where police stations are often understaffed and citizens remain vulnerable to attacks.

The statement further revealed that, “Many parts of Nigeria, especially remote areas, have few policemen at the stations, thus making the task of protecting and defending the people difficult,” adding that the president wants police officers “to concentrate on their core police duties.”

To make the initiative an everlasting one, the president has approved the recruitment of 30,000 police officers nationwide, with plans underway to upgrade training facilities in collaboration with state governments.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a major operation across the Niger Delta, troops have dismantled seven illegal oil refining sites and recovered over 109,000 litres of stolen petroleum products valued at over One Hundred and Fifty Million Naira.

The operations, conducted by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in conjunction with other security agencies between November 10 and 23, 2025, also led to the arrest of four suspected oil thieves.

According to a statement from the Division’s Acting Deputy Director of Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the recovered items include over 88,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 21,355 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.

The crackdown yielded significant results in Rivers State, where troops deactivated three illegal refining sites in Okolomade, Ahoada West LGA, seizing over 40,000 litres of crude and 20,000 litres of AGO alongside equipment like large pots and receivers.

Further operations at the Imo River fringes in Oyigbo LGA led to the discovery of three more sites with over 14,700 litres of stolen crude.

In a separate raid in Abuloma, Okrika LGA, acting on intelligence, troops uncovered a compound storing about 32,000 litres of stolen crude in 1,050 sacks.

Other successes were recorded in Akwa Ibom and Delta States. In Akwa Ibom, a raid on a storage facility in Abak LGA led to the recovery of over 520 litres of illegally refined AGO.

In Delta State, suspects fled an operation at the DAEWOO yard in Ekpan, abandoning wooden boats and 75 litres of crude oil.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, commended the troops for their resilience and charged them to sustain the offensive against economic saboteurs.

He also urged residents of the region to support the military by providing credible intelligence on criminal activities.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Brigadier General Abu Ali, a former Military Governor of Bauchi State and a traditional ruler in Kogi State, has passed away.

The late General was the father of the renowned and gallant soldier, Lieutenant Muhammad Abu Ali, who was killed in action during a fierce battle with Boko Haram insurgents in Maiduguri.

The younger Abu Ali was widely celebrated for his bravery and military prowess in the fight against terrorism.

Brigadier General Abu Ali’s legacy is thus deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s military history, marked by both his own service and the ultimate sacrifice of his son.

The announcement of his passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes, with many offering prayers for the repose of his soul and for all the faithful departed.

By Uzair Adam

The Kaduna State Government has dismissed as false and politically driven the allegation that the current administration paid N1bn to bandits, describing the claim as unfounded and damaging.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the government gave the former governor a one-week ultimatum to present verifiable evidence or publicly withdraw the allegation, insisting that failure to comply would result in legal action.

The former governor had, during a recent appearance on Channels Television, alleged that the state paid bandits as part of its security engagements.

Responding to the claim, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs described the allegation as reckless, baseless and deliberately misleading.

The statement criticised the former governor for weaponising a sensitive security matter for political purposes, adding that such action falls below the standard expected of someone who previously held the highest office in the state.

The government demanded that the allegation be retracted and an unreserved apology issued within one week, warning that the state would initiate legal proceedings to protect public order and institutional integrity should the ultimatum be ignored.

It stressed that the governor has never authorised, negotiated or paid any amount to criminal groups, a position repeatedly made clear in interviews, press briefings and engagements with stakeholders.

The statement also recalled that the Office of the National Security Adviser had earlier dismissed similar claims as unfounded and inconsistent with Nigeria’s security practices, reaffirming that neither the Federal Government nor state governments pay ransom to criminal elements.

Highlighting its security approach, the Kaduna State Government stated that it has adopted a community-focused strategy anchored on stronger military operations, deeper engagement with legitimate community leaders and improved access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

It emphasised that the state engages with communities—not bandits.Grassroots groups, including those from areas most affected by insecurity during the former governor’s tenure, have also rejected the allegation, describing it as misleading and untrue.

The statement further referenced past accusations made by senior officials of the former administration, suggesting that public funds were used to appease certain groups, making the current allegation particularly paradoxical.

Since taking office, the governor has prioritised stabilising vulnerable communities, reopening schools, markets and farmlands and rebuilding trust among previously divided groups.

The government urged former officials to exercise restraint and support ongoing efforts to sustain peace.

Challenging the former governor to present credible evidence—such as bank records, internal correspondence or security documents—the government noted that similar claims made in September 2025 were never backed with proof.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and responsible security management, the Kaduna State Government said it would not be distracted by bitterness, fear-mongering or deliberate misinformation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued an immediate order for the withdrawal of all police officers assigned as personal security guards to Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country.

The directive, announced on Sunday, aims to redeploy these officers to their core duties of frontline policing and public security.

The order was issued following a security meeting in Abuja, which was attended by the heads of the nation’s security agencies, including the Army, Air Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector-General of Police.

According to the new directive, any VIP requiring personal protection must now seek such services from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which will be responsible for providing armed guards.

This move comes as many regions of the country, particularly rural and remote areas, suffer from a severe shortage of police personnel.

This deficit has hampered the force’s ability to effectively protect lives and property.

President Tinubu stated his administration’s commitment to increasing police presence nationwide to tackle the security challenges plaguing the nation.

This initiative aligns with the federal government’s earlier approval to recruit 30,000 new police officers, alongside a partnership with state governments to enhance police training facilities across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state due to rising security challenges.

The directive affects primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. It also covers Federal Government-owned schools and private schools operating within the state.

In a public announcement signed by the Information and Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Education, Jalaludeen Usman, the government said: “The Bauchi State Government wishes to notify the general public that all primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions—including Federal Government-owned schools and private schools—are hereby closed with immediate effect.”

The statement explained that the decision was not taken lightly. It said:“This decision, though difficult, was taken by the Government of Bauchi State after extensive consultations and in response to overwhelming security concerns affecting the safety of students, teachers, and school communities across the state.”

He acknowledged the disruption the closure may cause. It added:“The government is fully aware of the inconvenience this may cause. However, the protection of our children remains our highest moral responsibility. Every student in Bauchi State deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, stable, and free of fear.”

Parents, guardians, school owners and other stakeholders were urged not to panic. The statement said:“We therefore call on parents, guardians, school proprietors, and all concerned stakeholders not to panic, but to remain calm and cooperative. The government is working closely with security agencies to address the concerns swiftly and comprehensively, ensuring that normal academic activities resume as soon as it is safe to do so.”

The government also appealed to residents to stay alert and support security efforts. It stated:“If you see something, say something. Timely information from the public is crucial in safeguarding our communities.”

It assured the public that updates will be provided as the situation develops.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected bandits attacked Zalau, a village in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, late on Saturday, November 22, 2025. In the raid, they killed Alh. Muhammad Bakoshi, an Islamic cleric.

The attackers, whose numbers could not be confirmed, targeted the home of the late cleric, who served as the Discipline Officer of the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Zalau.

According to reports, the cleric was killed, while his wife—who gave birth just two weeks ago—and their five-year-old daughter were abducted and taken to an unknown location.

A resident said the attackers arrived between 11 p.m. and midnight, firing shots into the air before heading straight to Bakoshi’s house.

He added that the incident has left the community gripped by fear and sorrow, as residents feel increasingly vulnerable to repeated bandit attacks.

The resident also expressed the community’s hopes, stating, “Bandits and kidnappers in Nigeria do not target only Christians. These criminals go after anyone they see as vulnerable, regardless of religion. Let’s focus on safety and unity, not divide ourselves by faith.”

Local residents are praying for the safe return of the victims and for strength for the bereaved family during this difficult time.

As of the filing of this report, the Bauchi State Police Command had not issued any official statement.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Fifty pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, Niger State, have escaped from their captors and reunited with their families. School authorities confirmed the development on Sunday.

The escape happened days after gunmen attacked the school and abducted 303 pupils and students.

The pupils fled between Friday and Saturday but were unable to return to the school. The administration later confirmed their safety after contacting and visiting their parents.

The proprietor of the school and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the development as a sign of hope but urged that efforts must continue for the rest of the victims.

He said: “As much as we receive the return of these 50 children that escaped with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims.”

The update came in a statement signed electronically by his media aide, Daniel Atori. The statement also clarified the situation of those still in captivity.

It read:“For the records, we now have 251 primary pupils, 14 secondary students and 12 teachers still with their abductors.”The cleric further explained the composition of the school population.

He said:“In the primary section, out of the total number of 430 pupils we have in the school, 377 of them are boarders and the remaining 53 others are non-boarders.”

Giving a breakdown of those affected, he added:“Currently, aside the 50 pupils that escaped and have returned home, we have 141 pupils who were not carried away. As it stands now, we have 236 pupils, another 3 children who belong to our staff, 14 secondary students making a total 253 children including 12 members of staff with the abductors.”

Rev. Yohanna appealed to the public to remain calm and prayerful. He said the school and church authorities are working with security agencies, community leaders and government officials to secure the release of the remaining captives.

He said:“As much as we receive the return of these 50 children that escaped with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims.”

He also added:“I want to call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we will continue to actively collaborate with security operatives, community leaders, government and relevant authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees.”

He ended with a prayer:“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect his people from all dangers.”

Security agencies have not yet released an official statement on their operations or progress made so far in tracking down the abductors.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Pope Leo XIV has appealed for the prompt release of 315 students, teachers and other members of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwarra Local Government Area of Niger State, who were recently abducted by armed men.

The Pontiff spoke on Sunday. He expressed deep concern over the incident, which involved students, teachers, priests and other members of the Catholic community.

In his words: “I received with profound sorrow the news of the abduction of priests, faithful, and schoolchildren. I make a heartfelt plea for the swift and unconditional release of all those being held.”

The attack reportedly took place in the early hours of Friday. Armed men invaded the private Catholic school during the operation.

Local sources said the attackers arrived in large numbers. They were said to be on more than 60 motorcycles and had a van with them. They forced their way into the school premises before carrying out the abduction.

During the assault, the school gatekeeper was shot. He was left in critical condition.A resident of Agwarra confirmed that the incident happened between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m.

He added that the exact number of abducted students had not yet been fully verified.

As he put it: “It happened between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m.. The number of students taken is still unclear.”

Another community source said several teachers were also taken during the raid. He said this has increased fears over the scale of the attack and the safety of those abducted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service has wrapped up its first Customs Partnership for African Cooperation in Trade (C-PACT) Summit after a three-day program in Abuja.

The event ended on 19 November 2025. It drew Customs heads, policy specialists and private sector stakeholders from across Africa. Discussions focused on deepening the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The closing ceremony took place at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton. The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, hosted the final session. He also oversaw key deliberations during the summit.

Addressing participants, Adeniyi said the gathering had given Africa “a credible platform to move from fragmented efforts to collective solutions.” He added that the resolutions would guide Customs administrations as they strengthen border procedures, improve compliance systems and reduce non-tariff barriers that slow cross-border trade.

He further explained that the C-PACT initiative, which Nigeria proposed and promoted, would now serve as “a working mechanism for African Customs administrations to engage regularly, share operational experiences and harmonise processes in support of AfCFTA.”

Earlier, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, had called on African nations to remove structural trade barriers. He urged leaders to embrace a continent-wide framework that promotes competitiveness, industrial expansion and stable cross-border commerce.

In the same vein, the Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation, Ian Saunders, reminded participants that Customs agencies remain key to the success of AfCFTA because they “connect borders, enforce standards and determine the practical realities of trade.”

At the opening of the summit, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President, Kanayo Awani, warned that without modern and interoperable Customs systems, Africa would struggle to unlock the full economic benefits of AfCFTA.

During the final session, delegations expressed satisfaction with the level of engagement recorded. They highlighted progress made on issues such as rules of origin, transit systems, risk management, digital documentation, gender inclusion and coordinated border operations.

Participants also resolved that the C-PACT platform should continue as a technical body. It would track progress and help align national Customs systems with evolving continental standards.

Private-sector representatives, including freight operators, manufacturers, logistics companies, port authorities and exporters, also made presentations. They drew attention to persistent delays, uneven procedures and documentation challenges that discourage intra-African trade.

In his remarks, the National President of the Association of Licensed Customs Agents, Emenike Kingsley, noted that the summit offered a rare opportunity for Customs administrators and economic operators to jointly assess operational constraints.