News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a decisive blow against terrorism, Nigerian Special Forces under Operation HADIN KAI have eliminated a high-profile Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Amir Abu Fatima, along with several of his lieutenants in Kukawa, Northern Borno State.

The successful operation, carried out on May 30, 2025, followed credible intelligence reports on the terrorists’ hideout.

Abu Fatima, who had a ₦100 million bounty on his head, was fatally wounded in a fierce gun battle with troops. His deputy, explosives experts, and multiple fighters were also neutralized in the encounter.

Military sources confirmed the recovery of AK-47 rifles, ammunition, explosives, and IED-making materials from the scene.

No casualties were recorded among Nigerian forces.

This strike marks a major setback for terrorist operations in the region and underscores the Armed Forces’ ongoing efforts to restore stability in the Northeast.

By Anwar Usman

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on has set aside a judgment of the Federal High Court in Kano which nullified the composition of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission and the local government election held on October 26, 2024.

A three-judge panel, led by Justice Biobele Abraham Georgewill, said the Federal High Court did not in any way have the power to hear cases about state electoral bodies and their members.

The court said that these matters should be handled by the Kano State High Court.The court accepted appeals from the Kano State Attorney General, the Kano State House of Assembly, and KASIEC.

It then dismissed the cases at the Federal High Court for lack of authority.

In a related case, the Court of Appeal also over ruled another Federal High Court ruling noting that, the earlier ruling had rejected the list of candidates sent to KASIEC by one faction of the New Nigeria People’s Party for the recent local government election.

The Court of Appeal said the case, which involved a dispute over NNPP leadership and candidate lists from two groups, was not within the Federal High Court’s power to decide.

It added that party leadership and candidate choices cannot be settled in court.

By Hassan Muhammad

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has been crowned Galatasaray’s Best Player of the Year after a sensational debut season in Turkey.

On loan from Napoli, Osimhen scored 35 goals in 39 matches, helping Galatasaray secure both the Süper Lig title and the Turkish Cup. His standout performances included a brace in the cup final and a decisive goal in the league’s final matchday.

Club legend Tanju Çolak praised the forward as “the best player of the season,” while Osimhen himself expressed gratitude for the honor, calling Galatasaray “an amazing club.”

His future remains uncertain, but fans are hopeful he will extend his stay in Istanbul.

By Maryam Ahmad

President Bola Tinubu has outlined significant gains in national security, youth empowerment, and innovation as his administration clocks two years in office, asserting that the groundwork is being laid for a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.

In a comprehensive national address, President Tinubu said his administration had improved collaboration among security agencies and made substantial gains in previously volatile regions. “In some areas of the northwest, hitherto under the control of bandits, our gallant armed forces have restored order,” he said.

The President emphasised the role of young Nigerians in national development, citing innovative programmes at the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), such as electric vehicle assembly, drone engineering training for women, and local manufacturing of rapid diagnostic kits.

“These initiatives are creating jobs, restoring dignity to work, and opening up a future of possibilities for our youth,” Tinubu stated.

Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government has also embarked on large-scale infrastructure projects, including major highway reconstructions, rural electrification through solar initiatives, and enhanced support for farmers to boost food security.

In a nod to cultural diplomacy, the President announced plans for the Motherland Festival—a global event that will showcase Nigeria’s cultural heritage, creativity, and tourism potential.

Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora and introduced new policies, including a diaspora bond and non-resident BVN, to encourage greater engagement.

“Our direction is clear, and so is our resolve,” the President said in closing. “The real impact of our governance objectives is beginning to take hold. The future is bright.”

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Police Command has arrested 41 suspects, including key perpetrators, in connection with the gruesome killing of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rano Division, CSP Baba Ali.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori.

The Command condemned the killing, describing it as a senseless and shocking act that represents a direct attack on law enforcement and the safety of society.

It noted that the tragic loss has been met with widespread condemnation across the state.Following swift investigations, the police apprehended 41 suspects, including those identified as the principal actors.

The Command pledged to intensify efforts to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice without exception.

CP Bakori assured residents of Kano that the police remain fully committed to safeguarding lives and property.

He urged the public to remain calm and continue supporting the police with useful information to aid the investigation.

The Command also paid tribute to CSP Baba Ali for his courage and sacrifice, reaffirming its dedication to honoring the fallen officer’s memory by ensuring justice is served.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked the second anniversary of his administration on Wednesday with an optimistic national address highlighting the government’s achievements and reaffirming commitment to economic reform, national security, and human capital development.

Speaking from the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, President Tinubu declared that his administration had made “undeniable progress” despite the sacrifices demanded of citizens, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates.

“We are halfway through the journey that began 24 months ago. Today, I proudly affirm that our economic reforms are working,” he said, citing improvements such as easing inflation, increased foreign reserves, and higher state revenues.

According to the President, the federal government recorded over ₦6 trillion in revenue in Q1 2025 and successfully reduced the fiscal deficit from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. Additionally, the country’s net external reserves rose sharply to over $23 billion by the end of 2024, a fivefold increase from the previous year.

In the energy sector, Tinubu noted a 400% increase in oil rig activity since 2021 and over $8 billion in new investments. “We have stabilised our economy and are now better positioned for growth and global shocks,” he added.

The President also highlighted reforms in taxation, infrastructure development, and the health sector. He announced the expansion of primary healthcare centres, the establishment of new cancer treatment centres, and a tax policy overhaul aimed at supporting low-income households and small businesses.

“Together, we are creating a system where prosperity is shared, and no one is left behind,” he said.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive economic growth, declaring that the country’s economic resilience is beginning to yield tangible benefits for citizens across sectors.

Addressing the nation on the second anniversary of his government, President Tinubu described 2025 as a year of fiscal turnaround and recovery, driven by bold reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Despite the bump in the cost of living, we have made undeniable progress,” he stated, noting improvements in inflation, food prices, and investor confidence.

A key highlight of the President’s remarks was the government’s aggressive tax reform agenda, which pushed the tax-to-GDP ratio from 10% to over 13.5% within a year. Tinubu explained that this success was made possible by simplifying tax policies and offering relief for low-income households and small businesses.

“We are eliminating the burden of multiple taxation and introducing a fairer tax system. Essential services like food, healthcare, and education will attract 0% VAT,” he announced.

President Tinubu also underscored the importance of sustainable national finances, stating that wasteful and opaque tax waivers had been abolished in favour of targeted incentives supporting high-impact sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.

The administration is establishing an independent Tax Ombudsman to ensure accountability. The President says this move will protect small businesses and vulnerable taxpayers.

“We are creating an economy where investment is welcome, businesses can thrive, and every Nigerian can benefit from shared prosperity,” he added.

The President noted that subnational governments had also reaped the benefits of the reforms, with an increase of over ₦6 trillion in state revenues in 2024. This has enabled them to meet debt obligations and invest more in critical infrastructure.

“Our reforms are not just fiscal adjustments. They are about restoring confidence, strengthening institutions, and building a foundation for future generations,” Tinubu concluded.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Popular TikToker Murja Ibrahim Kunya has been sentenced to six months in prison for abusing the Naira, following her conviction by the Federal High Court in Kano.

Justice Simone Amobeda handed down the verdict after Kunya pleaded guilty to spraying and stepping on Naira notes during a hotel celebration in December 2023, violating the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act.

Initially arrested in January 2025, Kunya fled after being granted bail but was later re-arrested in March. The court gave her an option to pay a ₦50,000 fine instead of imprisonment.

In a unique twist, Justice Amobeda also appointed Kunya as an EFCC and CBN ambassador, tasking her with using her social media influence to campaign against Naira abuse.

She must now educate her followers on the legal consequences of currency misuse.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) hailed the judgment as a deterrent against Naira abuse while promoting public awareness.

By Anwar Usman

The Federal Government has announced a monthly stipend of N45,000 for students in technical colleges across states in Nigeria.

This move was to be part of a plan to bring new life to Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

Idris Bugaje, the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, revealed this in an interview in Abuja while speaking on the second year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration on Wednesday.

He said the plan was part of a bigger effort to improve the TVET system and make it more appealing than regular university education.

Bugaje explained that the main ai was to grow the TVET sector fast and get more students to enrol in technical colleges.

He added that the government will not only pay the monthly stipend but will also cater for other costs.

Bugaje said, “The government will pay school fees, give money to industry-based supervisors (called master class instructors), and cover the cost of skill certification.

“With this, young people will find it more attractive to come to a technical college, obtain the relevant skills and qualifications, get jobs locally and even beyond the borders of Nigeria.

“This way, the whole sector is being repositioned. We are at the moment facing what you may call either a resurrection or a rebirth of TVET.”

He noted that TVET used to be well-supported in Nigeria in the past.He further revealed that Tinubu’s government has set aside N120 billion to support students under this new TVET plan.

“This money will be given through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).He further clarified that “The N45,000 is not a loan, but a grant. Students who enjoy this are not going to pay back. We want to encourage more people to enrol in technical education”.

To keep the programme running, Bugaje said the Minister of Education was working on a bill.The bill aims to create a National Skills Fund under the new Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his two years in office, calling for continued support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government.

In a statement, Buhari emphasized that leadership is a continuous journey and urged Nigerians to remain patient as reforms take time to yield results.

Buhari warned against allowing necessary policy changes to be derailed by political disputes, stressing the importance of unity in achieving progress.

He also expressed support for the administration’s efforts to tackle poverty and inflation but noted that the responsibility should not rest on the government alone.

“The private sector and all citizens must contribute in any way they can,” he said.

Encouraging optimism, Buhari advised Nigerians to manage their expectations while remaining confident in the country’s future.

He concluded by wishing Tinubu success, saying, “May you keep leading with wisdom and care.”