News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Former presidential aide and author, Reno Omokri, has raised concerns over the growing influence of BBC Hausa in Nigeria, arguing that no foreign media organisation should wield such power over a sovereign country.

In a detailed commentary, Omokri questioned whether it was healthy for Nigeria that BBC Hausa appears to have more influence than any local institution. He said one of his strongest wishes for the country was for the Federal Government to establish a Hausa-only radio station, possibly to be known as Radio Nigeria Hausa.

According to him, such a station should recruit the best Hausa-speaking journalists and broadcasters and operate with full editorial independence, even if it remains government-owned. He stressed that the journalists must be paid world-class salaries, warning that without competitive pay, foreign Hausa-language services would continue to attract Nigeria’s best talents.

Omokri explained his focus on Hausa by noting that the language is the most widely spoken in West Africa and the most developed indigenous language in Nigeria. He stated that about half of Nigeria’s population speaks Hausa, with many citizens relying on it as their only language. He also argued that, apart from Lukumi Yoruba, Hausa is the only indigenous language in the country that continues to grow, while others gradually decline as English gains ground.

He further claimed that BBC Hausa is the most influential and most listened-to media platform in Nigeria, with an estimated weekly audience of about 20 million listeners. He challenged readers to name any television station, radio outlet, or newspaper with a similar reach. Omokri added that radio remains the dominant medium in Nigeria and called on readers to verify this claim.

The commentator also asserted that BBC Hausa enjoys an 89 per cent trust rating in Nigeria, a figure he said few public or private institutions in the country could match. He linked this high level of trust to major historical moments, including the interview with late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from his sick bed and the announcement of General Sani Abacha’s death, both of which were first reported by BBC Hausa.

While acknowledging that some television stations, such as Channels Television, may reach millions of viewers, Omokri pointed out that television requires electricity and a TV set. He contrasted this with radio, which he described as cheap, portable, and accessible, since a simple battery-powered device allows listeners to tune in from anywhere.

Omokri expressed deeper concern over the ownership structure of the BBC. He noted that the British Broadcasting Corporation is a public service broadcaster established, owned, and controlled by the British government. He explained that the BBC chairman is appointed by the British monarch on the advice of the UK government, while the board also comes from government appointments.

He argued that, regardless of goodwill, the primary responsibility of the BBC leadership would be to protect British interests. He warned that Nigeria’s most influential media platform remains foreign-owned and operated, with the capacity to shape the worldview and political opinions of millions of Nigerians.

Raising a hypothetical scenario, Omokri asked what would happen if British and Nigerian interests were to clash, as they had in the past. He admitted that BBC Hausa might be convenient for Nigeria, but insisted that it was not in the country’s long-term interest.

He said he doubted that any European country or nation in the Western Hemisphere would accept a situation where a foreign media organisation held such sway over its population. In his view, media power should be firmly in Nigerian hands to protect national independence and sovereignty.

Omokri emphasised that the media plays a decisive role in shaping nations, citing the United States as a global power strengthened by both its media influence and military strength. He warned that BBC Hausa could, if it chose, influence Nigerian voting behaviour, consumer choices, and foreign alignment.

He concluded that allowing a foreign broadcaster to hold such influence over a sovereign nation posed a serious risk and called on Nigerians not to underestimate the power of the media.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, will return to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, 26 January 2026, days after he resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

According to the statement, Yusuf initially joined the APC in 2014 and emerged winner of the party’s primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat. He later stepped down from the contest in favour of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

The statement explained that the governor’s decision to rejoin the APC followed years of political participation on different platforms, including his recent stay in the NNPP.

It added that current realities linked to governance, national cohesion and development informed his move back to the APC, which he described as “a familiar and structured platform for progressive governance.”

Governor Yusuf said his return to the ruling party would boost collaboration with the Federal Government, fast-track infrastructural projects, strengthen security coordination and improve service delivery across Kano State.

He also noted that the move would promote political stability and unity within the state.

The statement further revealed that on Monday, the governor will formally register as an APC member in Kano. He will do so alongside 22 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives and the 44 local government chairmen in the state.

Yusuf is also expected to formally inaugurate the APC electronic registration exercise in Kano on the same day.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), operating under Operation DESERT SANITY V, have recorded another breakthrough in efforts to weaken terrorist logistics and criminal support structures in the North East.

This is contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information OfficerHeadquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on January 25, 2026.

The success followed actionable intelligence received on January 23, 2026, which led to the arrest of a suspected drug dealer, Hauwa Abulazeez, aged 65, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

The suspect is believed to be a major supplier of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram elements operating in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu and Gaya communities, and is also accused of serving as a key link in the distribution chain across several locations within the theatre of operation.

Preliminary findings revealed that the illicit substance was allegedly sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State before being transported through established routes for distribution.

During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated weight of about 30 kilograms.

The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while further operations continue to track and dismantle the wider network involved in the trafficking and distribution of the drug.

The military noted that disrupting such illicit supply chains plays a critical role in reducing violence, criminal activity and instability across the region, while strengthening lawful authority and security.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to confronting all forms of criminal activity in the North East, stressing that intelligence-led operations and sustained pressure will continue until lasting peace and stability are restored.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force under Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 have recorded major gains during a military operation in the Sububu Forest area of Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

The development was confirmed in a statement signed by Captain David Adewusi, Media Information Officer, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on January 24, 2026.

The operation targeted terrorist hideouts within the forest and led to the neutralisation of six terrorists, the recovery of weapons, the destruction of operational assets, and the rescue of a kidnapped underage victim.

Military sources said the offensive began at Indulumu village, where troops engaged terrorists in a gun battle. Two of the terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while one AK-47 rifle was recovered from the scene.

The troops later advanced to Ruduno village, where they faced renewed resistance. Four more terrorists were neutralised during the confrontation. Soldiers also recovered another AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing 28 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

Two motorcycles used by the terrorists for movement and logistics were destroyed at the location.

During further clearance operations inside the forest, the troops rescued an underage girl, identified as Halira Ibrahim, who had been held captive by the terrorists. The rescue brought an end to her captivity and reunited her with safety.

The operation also led to the destruction of several terrorist camps and support structures located in Magaji, Galakaje, Filinga and Kukatara communities.

Security sources said the action has disrupted the ability of the terrorists to regroup and maintain supply routes within the area.

The operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace in Zamfara State.

By Uzair Adam

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reschedule the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections slated for February 21, citing the Ramadan fasting period.

The party made the appeal in a letter dated January 22 and signed by its National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola.

The letter, which was made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, noted that the proposed election date coincides with Ramadan, a period observed by a significant number of voters in the FCT.

ADC argued that holding the elections during the fasting period could affect voter participation, given the cultural and religious importance of Ramadan.

The party said a shift in date would better serve the interest of inclusion and ensure wider participation in the democratic process.

“It is necessary to request a reconsideration of the election date to safeguard inclusion, participation and fairness for voters across the territory during the Ramadan period,” the party stated.

The ADC, therefore, urged INEC to move the polls to a date after Ramadan, stressing that the request was guided by the need to protect inclusivity and enable citizens to fully exercise their constitutional rights.

While describing its engagement with the electoral body as institutional, the party reaffirmed its readiness to follow due process and sought guidance on the appropriate procedures for submitting such applications.

It added that electoral credibility is strengthened when processes encourage broad participation, promote diversity and boost public confidence in democratic institutions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Depot Nigerian Army (NA), Zaria, has denied reports claiming a recruit, Ibrahim Nazifi, died during military training at the facility.

The Depot, in a statement released on Saturday, described the reports as “false” and inconsistent with its official records.

According to the Depot’s records, Ibrahim Nazifi, an indigene of Gombe State with application number 90RRI-GO-9017726, successfully passed the state recruitment screening in December 2025 and was shortlisted for training.

However, the Army stated that Nazifi “never reported to the Depot for commencement of his training” and was never admitted into the programme.

Consequently, the Depot clarified it has “no record of his presence, participation, injury or death during training.”

In light of the situation, the Depot has called on the Gombe State Government and other relevant authorities to launch an investigation to determine where, when, and how the alleged death occurred, emphasising that such an incident did not happen within its premises.

The statement acknowledged that military training is rigorous by design, meant to build endurance and combat readiness.

While admitting that demanding training can, in rare instances, lead to casualties, the Army stressed this is not due to negligence.

It highlighted that robust safety measures, medical coverage, and risk-mitigation procedures are in place to protect trainees.

The public was urged to disregard the reports and avoid spreading unverified information that could mislead the public and damage the Nigerian Army’s reputation.

The Depot NA Zaria reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of all recruits undergoing training.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of 1 Division, Sector 1 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled a bandit attack and neutralised one suspected terrorist during an operation in the Maraban Rido area of Kaduna State.

The operation followed a distress call received late on January 22, 2026, which reported the presence of armed bandits who had rustled livestock in Anguwan Fulan village within the Rido axis.

Acting on the information, troops moved quickly to the area to set up a snap ambush.On arrival, the troops encountered the fleeing bandits and engaged them with superior firepower.

This forced the attackers to retreat in disarray, with several sustaining gunshot wounds. The troops later extended the operation to nearby forested areas, including the Kankomi forest.

Another encounter occurred around Anguwan Sarki, which was identified as a suspected crossing point.

During the clash, the troops again overwhelmed the terrorists with heavy fire. The criminals abandoned the stolen livestock and fled the area. Some of the rustled animals were recovered during the operation.

Further exploitation of the ambush location in the early hours of January 23, 2026, led to the neutralisation of one terrorist. Troops also recovered two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and fifteen rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

The General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed Wase, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism during the encounter.

He urged them to maintain the momentum of operations against criminal elements and their hideouts.

The GOC reassured members of the public of the military’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. He also called on citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

The update was signed by Bello Nuradeen, Captain and Acting Staff Officer Grade 2, Community Relations, Army Public Relations, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Authorities in Niger have detained DW Hausa journalist Gazali Abdou Tasawa and placed him in Niamey Central Prison following a court summons on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The journalist appeared before the public prosecutor at the Niamey High Court for questioning related to a video report he produced.

The report highlighted the difficult living conditions of refugees from Katsina State in northern Nigeria who have sought refuge in Niger. However, no official statement has yet been issued detailing the specific charges against the journalist.

The detention has raised concerns among media observers and press freedom advocates, particularly regarding the treatment of journalists reporting on humanitarian and refugee issues in the region.

By Dahiru Kasimu Adamu

Every morning at Shantan Old Garage along Western Bypass, hundreds of young men armed with shovels and hoes descend into metre-deep pits, searching for buried treasure. But they are not hunting for gold or ancient artefacts, they are digging for scrap iron.

The abandoned garage, once a bustling hub for roadside mechanics, has become an unlikely source of livelihood for youth aged 15 to 40. As traditional labour opportunities have dwindled, these young scavengers have discovered that the ground beneath the old garage contains valuable iron scraps left behind when the site was operational.

“We thank Allah for this opportunity,” said Modi Sanusi, a scavenger in his late twenties. “Just this morning, scavenging materials worth over N125,000 were sold, all from this ground.”

The work is gruelling and dangerous, but profitable. Scavengers can earn between N20,000 and N40,000 daily, depending on their finds—a significant sum in an economy where formal employment remains scarce. Among those who have embraced this unconventional livelihood are former Tsangaya pupils who once begged for food.

Seventeen-year-old Kabiru explained how the earnings have transformed his life: “We earn income, buy food, give some to our parents, and save.”

The phenomenon is not confined to Shantan. Reports indicate that scrap metal collection has become one of Nigeria’s “millennium jobs,” with thousands of youth now reportedly earning substantial incomes from the trade.

But the work comes at a cost. Sharp objects buried in the soil cause frequent injuries, and landslides have resulted in fractures. Muhammad, another scavenger, recalled sustaining a leg fracture when earth collapsed on him. “After I recovered, I came back in the field as I can’t leave this work,” he said.

Health experts have raised alarm about additional risks. Buried iron from old vehicles could be contaminated with lead or other toxic chemicals. Open wounds from injuries risk infection, particularly given the lack of basic first aid facilities at the site.

Despite these hazards, the scavengers remain undeterred. Observers say the phenomenon highlights both the resilience of Nigerian youth and the urgent need for job creation and safety regulations. Advocates call for government intervention through new strategies and laws to regulate the business, as well as leadership within scavenging communities to organise safety campaigns.

For now, the digging continues at Shantan Old Garage. As unemployment persists and metal prices remain attractive, more youth are likely to join the ranks of those turning Sokoto’s buried past into their economic future—one shovelful at a time.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has resigned his membership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), attributing his decision to worsening internal disputes and a resolve to protect the overall interest of the people of Kano State.

The development was disclosed in a press statement dated January 23, 2026, and signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

According to the statement, Governor Yusuf conveyed his decision in a letter addressed to the Chairman of Diso-Chiranchi Ward of the NNPP in Gwale Local Government Area, with the resignation taking effect from Friday, January 23, 2026.

In the letter, the governor stated, “I write with a deep sense of gratitude to formally notify the leadership of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) of my decision to resign my membership of the party, with effect from Friday, 23rd, January 2026.”

Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the party for the opportunity and support it offered him throughout his time as a member.

“I remain sincerely appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the party, its leadership, and members across Kano State to be part of its political journey since 2022, as well as the support, goodwill, and cooperation extended to me during my time in the party.”

He explained that persistent leadership disputes and legal battles had continued to destabilize the party at the national level.

“In recent times, the party has been confronted with persistent internal challenges arising from leadership disagreements and ongoing legal processes, many of which are presently before the courts for judicial determination.”

The governor noted that the situation had led to serious divisions and weakened unity within the party.

“The growing disenfranchisement among party members has created deep divisions within the party structure, resulting in cracks that appear increasingly irreconcilable and have generated uncertainty at both state and national levels.”Governor Yusuf said his resignation followed careful consideration and was based strictly on public interest.“

After careful reflection, and without prejudice to the party’s capacity to resolve its internal challenges, I have come to the conclusion that my resignation is in the best interest of the people of Kano State.”

He added that the move was made without animosity and with a continued commitment to peace and development.

“This decision is taken in good faith, without any ill will, and with a continued commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of Kano State.”

The statement disclosed that the governor’s resignation was accompanied by that of 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and 44 local government chairmen across the state.

The NNPP acknowledged receipt of the resignation letter through the party’s Secretary in Diso-Chiranchi Ward, Hon. Kabiru Zubairu, who praised the governor’s achievements in governance.

“I wish to concur with His Excellency on the lingering crisis in our party, though we are trying our best to contain it, but we have no option than to accept the resignation of a one and most performing Governor of the NNPP.”