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By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service has recognised Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun after she secured a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States.

The event took place at the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service. Senior officers, management staff, and colleagues attended to celebrate what many described as a landmark achievement. Balogun has now become the first female pilot in the history of the service, a role long dominated by men.

The Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs Captain Kuhi Mbaya, praised her accomplishment and described her journey as one that could inspire others.

“Our officer, Nafisat Balogun, has transitioned from being a cabin attendant to a fully-fledged commercial pilot. This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” he said.

Mbaya said her success reflects changing opportunities within the organisation and sets a new standard for others to follow.

“For the first time, we now have a female pilot in the NCS. She has set a record, and it is important that we celebrate and recognise this milestone,” he added.

He urged more women to pursue their goals with confidence, noting that traditional barriers are being removed.

“This achievement shows that there are no limits. The glass ceiling has been shattered, and with determination and consistency, more women can achieve their dreams,” Mbaya said.

He also praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for promoting inclusion and supporting the advancement of women in the service.

In her remarks, Balogun expressed gratitude for the recognition and support she received throughout her journey.

“I am truly honoured and humbled by this warm reception. This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and belief shown in me,” she said.

She credited the leadership of the service for playing a key role in her success.

“I sincerely appreciate the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire management team for their invaluable support. This achievement stands as a testament to that encouragement,” she noted.

Balogun also pledged to uphold high standards in her duties.

“I promise to continue to serve with dedication, integrity, and professionalism,” she said.

Other officers at the ceremony commended her resilience and discipline. They described her achievement as a strong motivation for more women to explore specialised careers within the service and aim for excellence.

By Anwar Usman

A member of the House of Representatives representing Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency, Mohamed Hassan, is dead.

His death was announced in a statement issued on Friday by his special assistant on media, Muazzam Dawakin-Kudu,  who said Hassan died after a brief illness.

The statement read, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Hon. Barr. M.D. Hassan.”

According to the statement, the late lawmaker will be buried on Saturday, April 11, 2026, following a funeral prayer scheduled to take place at about 1:30 p.m. at the National Mosque, Abuja.

The statement offered prayers for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings and for Allah to admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus.

Until his passing, Hassan served as the representative of Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency and was widely recognized as an active contributor to legislative proceedings at the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from associates, constituents, and political stakeholders, who described his death as a significant loss to the nation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has described the soldiers killed in Thursday’s terrorist attack on a military camp in Benisheikh, Borno State, as “unforgettable heroes,” while urging Nigerians and the media to stand firmly behind the armed forces.

The attack, which targeted the 29 Task Force Brigade of Operation HADIN KAI, resulted in the death of several brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah. The Defence Headquarters confirmed the incident occurred in the early hours of April 9, 2026.

In a statement issued by the State House, President Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the military hierarchy and the families of the fallen troops.

“From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many of their fighters and commanders. The insurgents’ counterattack is a sign of desperation,” the President said.

He praised the courage of the soldiers who fought valiantly to repel the terrorists, preventing Boko Haram from overrunning local communities. Tinubu urged frontline troops not to be discouraged but to draw strength from the nation’s deep appreciation for their sacrifices.

“Do not lose heart, do not be weary, do not be discouraged. Our officers and men should continue to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism,” he said. “The government will always stand by the Armed Forces, provide more of the equipment needed, and ensure the welfare of all who risk their lives for our safety.”

The President also appealed to Nigerians and the media to desist from celebrating or condoning attacks against troops, stressing that the soldiers are “heroes, unforgettable and irreplaceable.”

He extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, pledging continued federal collaboration to achieve total victory and lasting peace.

“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” Tinubu affirmed. “Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Washington, April 7, 2026 – United States President Donald Trump has said he is unconcerned about accusations of possible war crimes linked to threats of attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure. His remarks came as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise over a looming deadline tied to a proposed agreement.

Trump warned that the US could target key facilities such as power plants, bridges, oil wells, and water desalination sites if Iran fails to comply. Such targets are protected under international humanitarian law.

“I’m not worried about it,” Mr Trump said when asked during a press conference on Monday what he would say to those who allege that striking energy facilities would amount to war crimes. “You know the war crime? The war crime is allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” he added.

When pressed further, the US leader described Iran’s leadership as “animals” and accused them of killing large numbers of protesters.

He also spoke about Iran’s oil resources and suggested he would take control of them under different circumstances. “I’d keep the oil, and I would make plenty of money,” he said.

Trump has already issued a deadline for Tehran to reach a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He warned of severe consequences if the demand is not met. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he wrote: “There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F***in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell.”

At the same briefing, Trump addressed concerns that such attacks could harm civilians. He responded: “It’s suffering. They would be willing to suffer that in order to have freedom.”

The president appeared alongside Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who is facing criticism from US lawmakers. Democrat Yassamin Ansari accused him of supporting unlawful military actions.

“Trump is escalating a devastating, illegal war, threatening massive war crimes and targeting civilian infrastructure in Iran. In the last 48 hours alone, the rhetoric has crossed every line. Pete Hegseth is complicit,” Ansari wrote in a post on X.

“I’ve called for the 25th Amendment and am introducing Articles of Impeachment against Hegseth,” she added.

Criticism also came from other political figures in the United States. Senator Chuck Schumer said: “He’s threatening possible war crimes and alienating allies. This is who he is, but this is not who we are. Our country deserves so much better.”

Senator Chris Murphy described Trump’s remarks as “completely unhinged”.

Marjorie Taylor Greene, once an ally of the president, also reacted strongly. She wrote: “Everyone in his administration that claims to be a Christian needs to fall on their knees and beg forgiveness from God and stop worshipping the President and intervene in Trump’s madness.”

She continued: “Trump threatening to bomb power plants and bridges hurts the Iranian people, the very people Trump claimed he was freeing […] This is not making America great again, this is evil.”

The United Nations has also raised concerns. A spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that international law prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“Even if specific civilian infrastructure were to qualify as a military objective,” Stephane Dujarric said, an attack would still be prohibited if it risks “excessive incidental civilian harm”.

Meanwhile, the White House confirmed that a 45-day ceasefire proposal had been discussed but not approved by Trump. Iran has rejected the temporary arrangement and is instead calling for a permanent end to the conflict.

By Uzair Adam

A former Kano State governor and national leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has condemned the killing of no fewer than 27 people in Gari Ya Waye community of Angwan Rukuba in Jos, Plateau State, describing the attack as barbaric and another tragic chapter in Nigeria’s history.

Kwankwaso, in a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, expressed deep concern over the incident, saying the senseless bloodshed underscores the persistent failure of leadership and the growing culture of impunity that has turned parts of the country into what he called “killing fields.”

The former governor said the recurring violence in Plateau State and other parts of Nigeria should no longer be treated as routine incidents, stressing that the situation demands urgent attention as a national emergency.

“The barbaric attack on the Gari Ya Waye community in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, which claimed the lives of no fewer than 27 Nigerians and left many others injured, is yet another tragic and shameful chapter in our nation’s history,” he said.

Kwankwaso added that the continued attacks on communities highlight the urgent need for decisive leadership and stronger measures to protect lives and property across the country.

According to him, Nigerians deserve to live in peace, security and dignity regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

The former minister of defence also extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the injured and residents of the affected community.

“My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to the families of the victims, the injured, and the entire Gari Ya Waye community in this moment of profound grief,” he said.

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has denounced the alleged assault on Albarka Radio reporter, Mohammed Adamu, by police officers during the Eid Durbar celebration in Bununu, located in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

According to the organisation, in a statement signed by the Executive Director of CITAD, YZ Ya’u, the incident occurred while the journalist was on assignment to cover the event.

He was reportedly stopped by police officers led by the Divisional Police Officer, Jamilu Kabir. Although he identified himself and made efforts to reach the designated media section, officers allegedly attacked him.

The assault left him with head injuries and compelled him to seek medical care.

CITAD described the development as “a grave violation of press freedom and a direct attack on the fundamental rights of journalists in Nigeria.”

The group stressed that journalists remain vital to public awareness and accountability. It added that any form of intimidation or harm against media professionals weakens democratic governance and undermines the rule of law.

The organisation also noted that the incident reflects a broader concern. It stated that cases of harassment and violence against journalists by security personnel have become frequent.

According to CITAD, such actions create fear and hinder the ability of the media to function independently.

“We therefore call for:

1. An immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident.


2. The identification and prosecution of all officers involved in the assault.


3. Adequate compensation and protection for the assaulted journalist.


4. Clear directives and training for security agencies to respect and protect journalists in the course of their duties.”



CITAD further urged the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to act decisively to address what it described as a growing pattern of attacks on journalists and to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The organisation emphasized that Nigeria must remain a country where journalists can perform their duties without fear.

It maintained that protecting press freedom is essential for the preservation of democracy and the rights of citizens.

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, has called on citizens to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The former minister of aviation is among the 65 ambassadors recently cleared for deployment earlier in March.

In a statement released on Friday, Fani-Kayode extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and abroad. He also expressed optimism about the current administration, stating that “Tinubu is on the right path to transform the nation”.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of the Ramadan fast observed by Muslims worldwide.

Fani-Kayode encouraged Nigerians to uphold the values practiced during Ramadan, such as patience, compassion, generosity, and unity. He stressed that these qualities are important for peaceful coexistence and national unity, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The envoy also voiced confidence in the country’s future under Tinubu’s leadership. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to good governance and national development.

He offered prayers for peace, stability, and progress in the country, while wishing Muslims a happy Eid celebration.

United States President Donald Trump has criticised NATO members for failing to support Washington and Israel in the ongoing war with Iran, as tensions continue to disrupt global energy supplies.

The Strait of Hormuz remains largely inaccessible amid the conflict. The waterway is a key route for global oil and gas shipments. The situation has raised concerns across international markets, with no clear end to the fighting.

In a post shared on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump described NATO countries as “COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”

He faulted the alliance for refusing to participate in the military effort against Iran. He also accused them of complaining about rising oil prices despite staying out of the conflict.

“Now that fight is militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to ⁠pay, but don’t want to help open ⁠the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so ⁠little risk,” he wrote.

Trump has repeatedly urged key allies to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Iranian control. Many of those countries were not consulted before the war began.

The conflict, which started on February 28 following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has caused widespread destruction. Thousands of people have died, while millions have been displaced. It has also triggered instability in global financial markets.

Amid the developments, NATO confirmed it is modifying its mission in Iraq. This followed reports that personnel had been temporarily withdrawn due to the security situation.

“We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq,” alliance spokesperson Allison Hart said.

NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, also confirmed that mission personnel in Iraq had been relocated to Europe.

“I would like to thank the Republic of Iraq and all the Allies who assisted in the safe relocation of NATO personnel from Iraq,” the statement reads.

European leaders have, however, signalled reluctance to join the conflict. Speaking after a European Union summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for diplomacy.

“I have ‌not heard anyone here express a willingness to enter this conflict – quite the opposite.”

He added that respecting international law and reducing tensions remained “the best we can do”.

The war has dominated discussions among European leaders, especially its impact on energy prices. Reports indicate that there is no unified position within the European Union on how to respond to the crisis.

Officials have warned that energy costs may continue to rise in the coming months, as uncertainty persists over supply routes and market stability.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government has announced Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, as public holidays in celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this in a statement released on Tuesday.

Eid-el-Fitr is observed by Muslims worldwide to mark the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

In his message, the minister congratulated Muslims on completing the fasting period. He urged them to continue to reflect the values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice associated with Ramadan.

He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to offer prayers for peace, unity, and progress in the country.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, 19th March, and Friday, 20th March 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan,” the statement reads.

“While wishing the Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, the Minister encourages citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.”

Tunji-Ojo further advised citizens to celebrate in a responsible manner and show kindness to vulnerable members of society.

He added that the federal government remains focused on strengthening national unity and ensuring peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United States Air Force has confirmed the loss of a KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft during operations over western Iraq, though it stated the incident was not the result of hostile action.

In a statement late Thursday, the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) said one of its KC-135 aircraft went down during what it described as Operation Epic Fury. The operation involved two aircraft.

“One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the second landed safely,” CENTCOM stated.



The military emphasized that the incident was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire, and added that rescue efforts for the crew were ongoing.

“This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” the statement read. “More information will be made available as the situation develops. We ask for continued patience to gather additional details and provide clarity for the families of service members.”



However, Shia armed groups operating under the banner of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq have claimed responsibility for shooting down the aircraft. In a statement posted on Telegram, the group said its fighters targeted the U.S. refueling plane while defending Iraqi airspace.

> “Protecting our country and its airspace, supporters of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq downed the KC-135 plane of the U.S. Air Force,” the statement said.



The group did not specify the weapon used but claimed it deployed “suitable weapons”. It also asserted responsibility for a second attack on another U.S. aircraft, which, according to the statement, successfully landed.

> “Protecting our country and its airspace, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq attacked another KC-135 plane, but its crew managed to escape and land the aircraft at an airfield of the enemy,” the group said.



The U.S. military has not confirmed these claims. CENTCOM has also not released further details regarding the crew aboard the downed plane or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The KC-135 Stratotanker is a vital refueling aircraft that allows U.S. combat and support planes to operate at extended ranges. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, as Iran-aligned militias and U.S. forces have exchanged threats and attacks in recent weeks.

Security analysts noted that conflicting accounts of the incident highlight the increasing volatility of the region’s airspace. Shia militias in Iraq have previously targeted U.S. bases and military assets, citing the goal of ending the American military presence in the country.