By Suleiman Usman Yusuf 

Right now, I am deeply pained and genuinely confused, perhaps like many other well-meaning Nigerians who still believe this country can rise above its failures. If all I have to offer is my voice and my pen, then I will continue writing about Nigeria’s lingering security crisis until my last strength fades. Silence is no longer an option when the nation is bleeding this profusely.

This country is bruised. Every week, the news reminds us that Nigeria is fighting for its own life, not in theory but in blood and dust. Yet we move on too quickly, as if these tragedies belong to someone else.

The death of Brigadier General M. Uba should stop us in our tracks.

Not just because he was a senior officer. Not because his story is more important than the stories of countless others who fell before him. But because his final hours reveal both the extraordinary courage of the men defending this country and the painful weaknesses of the institutions meant to protect them.

Two days ago, Nigerians were told he was alive and safe. Today, the truth arrived from insurgent propaganda channels rather than from the State he served. That alone should trouble every citizen who still believes this country can be redeemed.

But beyond the misinformation, beyond the chaos of battle and the failures of communication, there was a man. A man who fought through one ambush, shielded his men, and kept talking on the radio even as danger closed in from every direction. A man who understood the terrain, the risks, and the meaning of service in a way many of us never will.

His killers did not find him by magic. They found him because insurgent groups in the North-East have evolved into highly adaptive, intelligence-driven networks. They have spotters, informants, trackers, and a familiarity with the terrain that gives them dangerous advantages. Our troops face that reality every day with limited resources and uneven institutional support. Yet they still go out, still patrol, still hold their ground.

Brigadier General Uba died in uniform, under a harsh Borno sky, in the service of a country that has not yet learned how to protect its defenders fully. His death is not just a battlefield loss. It is a national failure.

But this is where our story must change.

Nigeria cannot survive if we continue pretending that insecurity is a Northern problem, or a Christian problem, or a Muslim problem, or a regional competition in suffering. Nigeria is bleeding in too many places for that false comfort.

This is a Nigerian problem. All of us are inside this fire.

If we want to save this country, we must begin by admitting the truth.

We have an overburdened military fighting a war that politicians treat like background noise. We have intelligence agencies that do not always speak to each other. We have a society more invested in ethnic debates than national survival. We have families quietly burying soldiers while the rest of us argue online. We have institutions that hide failures rather than learn from them.

But we also have something else. We have citizens who still believe in Nigeria. We have communities ready to cooperate when trust is restored. We have young officers and men who refuse to give up on this country, even when this country sometimes gives up on them. We have people like Brigadier General Uba, whose courage reminds us of the Nigeria that is still possible.

If his death is to mean anything, it must push us toward a national rebuilding rooted in truth, accountability, and collective responsibility. It must force us to demand better communication protocols, better extraction procedures, better intelligence coordination, and better welfare for every man and woman who carries a rifle for this country.

Saving Nigeria is not a slogan. It is a long, disciplined, painful process that requires leadership, honesty, citizen cooperation, and institutional courage.

Brigadier General Uba has paid his share in full. The account is now with us.

Suleiman Usman Yusuf, a Governance, Security, and Development Consultant, AI Policy and Governance Advocate, and a Shaper of Africa’s Tech Future, wrote via suleimanusmanbac@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria emerged as Africa’s largest exporter of crude oil to the United States between January and August 2025, shipping 33.23 million barrels valued at $2.57 billion, according to the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.

The disclosure was made on Tuesday through a post on the Mission’s official X handle, @USinNigeria. The Mission stated that Nigeria’s shipments during the eight-month period represented more than half of total African crude oil exports to the American market.

The U.S. Mission said the figures highlight Nigeria’s strong position among African oil-producing countries supplying crude to the United States and reflect the depth of economic ties between both nations.

“#DidYouKnow that Nigeria was the leading African exporter of crude oil to the United States between January and August 2025, shipping 33.23 million barrels worth $2.57 billion? That’s more than half of all African crude oil exports to the United States during that period,” the Mission stated.

The Mission added that the ongoing trade relationship continues to deliver economic value to both countries. “Our strong trade ties create jobs and drive prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic,” the statement said.

Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest oil producers and a key supplier to the global energy market, despite recent output challenges linked to oil theft, pipeline vandalism and operational constraints.

The strong trade performance comes against the backdrop of shifting diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United States in 2025. During the latter part of the year, bilateral ties experienced tension linked to immigration, security and religious freedom concerns, before easing toward the end of the year.

On December 16, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a proclamation titled “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States.”

The order, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, expanded an existing travel restriction list to 39 countries. Nigeria was among 15 countries subjected to partial entry limitations, including a halt to new F, M and J visa issuances.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Government has announced public holidays for the 2025 Christmas and New Year celebrations, while security agencies across the country have intensified measures to ensure safety during the festive period.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Monday declared Thursday, December 25, 2025; Friday, December 26, 2025; and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year. The announcement was made on behalf of the Federal Government.

In a statement, the minister conveyed Christmas and New Year goodwill messages to Christians in Nigeria and in the diaspora, as well as to all citizens marking the close of the year and the start of a new one. He described the season as a time for reflection and national unity.

The holiday declaration came amid heightened security arrangements ordered by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The IGP directed the nationwide deployment of police personnel and assets to maintain public safety throughout the festive season.

According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, all zonal Assistant Inspectors-General and state Commissioners of Police have been instructed to boost patrols, strengthen visibility policing, deepen intelligence-driven operations and expand community engagement.

“In line with the Force’s proactive security strategy for the festive season, the IGP has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command CPs to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, and confidence-building engagements throughout the period.

“Specialised units, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Airwing, have been placed on heightened operational readiness,” the statement read.

Hundeyin said security coverage includes places of worship, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure and other crowded public locations.

He added, “Additional patrol teams and surveillance units have also been activated to cover inter-state routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, traffic disorder, and accidents.

“The deployed officers have been charged to be firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties.”

The police spokesman further stated that commands across the country have been directed to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts and flashpoints, while collaboration with other security agencies has been strengthened.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal Government has made drug tests compulsory for anyone applying for a job in the public service.

The move aims to tackle the growing problem of drug abuse and its effects on security and work performance.

The directive came in an official circular issued today by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

It orders all Permanent Secretaries and heads of Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and parastatals to include drug screening in their hiring process.

According to the circular, all MDAs must work with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to carry out the tests and ensure they meet required standards.

The government said the policy is a response to the “alarming rate” of substance abuse, especially among young Nigerians.

It warned that the trend poses a serious threat to public health, the economy, workplace safety, and national security.

The statement was signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the OSGF.

He stated that the administration is determined to safeguard the workforce from drug-related harms.

This new rule for federal jobs follows similar recent policies that introduced mandatory drug testing in universities and other sectors.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Uba Sani has formally signed the 2026 appropriation bill of ₦985.9 billion into law, marking a significant commitment to infrastructure and grassroots development in Kaduna State.

The budget, titled “Consolidation of Transformation for Inclusive Development,” strongly prioritizes capital projects. A substantial ₦698.9 billion representing 70.9% of the total is allocated for capital expenditure aimed at infrastructure, economic expansion, and improved public services.

Recurrent expenditure, set at ₦287 billion (29.1% of the budget), will cover essential government operations and services.

A standout feature is the direct allocation of ₦100 million to each of the state’s wards for community driven projects, a move designed to ensure development reaches the grassroots level.

Governor Sani emphasized that the budget reflects his administration’s focus on inclusive growth and tangible improvements in the lives of Kaduna’s residents.

By Ibrahim Yunusa

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe has announced an increment of $3m to the winner of the African Cup of Nationa that is currently being hosted by Morocco.

The winner’s prize of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been raised to $10 million from $7 million that was initially given to the winner of 2023 edition, following an increase approved by the Confederation of African Football.

This marks a significant boost aimed at rewarding excellence and further elevating the prestige of the tournament.

The 2025 tournament kicked off yesterday with a thrilling opening match between the host, Morocco, versus Comoros, in which the Moroccan team defeated Comoros with two goals to nil.

By Maryam Ahmad

El Salvador’s attorney-general has announced what he described as “exemplary sentences” against 248 members of the MS-13 criminal gang, following a major trial linked to dozens of violent crimes.

The convictions covered a range of offences, including 43 homicides. One defendant was sentenced to 1,335 years in prison, while ten others were each sentenced to several hundred years.

Authorities said the case marks one of the most significant legal blows against organised crime in the country. The mass sentencing forms part of President Nayib Bukele’s ongoing crackdown on gangs, a campaign that has dramatically reshaped El Salvador’s security policies and drawn both domestic support and international scrutiny.

Government officials argue that the harsh penalties are intended to dismantle gang structures and deter future violence, as the administration continues its hardline approach to public security.

By Anas Abbas

Dangote Petroleum Refinery, in partnership with MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, has commenced nationwide sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, at a pump price of 739 per litre.

The initiative is aimed at easing the cost of fuel for consumers and supporting stability in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.

The new price is being implemented across all MRS filling stations nationwide, covering over 2,000 outlets. The companies said the rollout is designed to ensure that the benefits of locally refined petrol are directly passed on to motorists and other fuel users.

Dangote Refinery commended marketers that have already complied with the new pricing regime, describing their action as a positive contribution to national economic recovery. It also encouraged other fuel marketers to align with the N739 per litre price to ensure uniformity and fairness in the market.

The price adjustment comes at a period of increased fuel demand, driven by seasonal travel and commercial activities. To address this, the refinery assured Nigerians of steady supply, stating that it is capable of delivering up to 50 million litres of petrol daily to meet national demand.

The refinery also raised concerns about possible attempts by some operators to create artificial scarcity or frustrate the price reduction. It urged regulatory authorities to closely monitor fuel distribution and take action against any practices that could undermine the initiative.

Consumers were advised not to patronise filling stations selling petrol above the approved price when cheaper alternatives are available. Dangote Refinery disclosed that mechanisms have been put in place for the public to report any MRS outlet found violating the pricing directive.

Reiterating its commitment to Nigeria’s energy security, the refinery said its pricing decision reflects a long-term vision focused on affordability, consistent supply and reduced dependence on fuel imports, rather than short-term profit considerations.

By Anas Abbas

Nicki Minaj has explained why she chose to publicly speak about the situation of Christians in Nigeria, saying her decision was driven by personal ties to the country and deep concern over reports of violence linked to religion.

The American rapper made the remarks during a public appearance where she was asked about her recent comments on Nigeria. She said the country is close to her heart, noting that she has long-standing relationships with Nigerians, including her pastor and many supporters.

Minaj said she was disturbed by accounts of kidnappings and attacks allegedly carried out against people because of their faith. According to her, such reports compelled her to use her global platform to draw attention to what she described as a moral issue that should not be ignored.

She also spoke more broadly about the importance of religious freedom, stressing that many people take for granted the ability to worship freely and safely. She urged the public to remember those who face fear and danger simply for practicing their religion.

Her comments followed her reaction to a statement by the U.S. President Donald Trump on the treatment of Christians in Nigeria. Minaj said her position was rooted in the belief that the right to worship should be protected everywhere.

The intervention has sparked mixed reactions, with some welcoming the international attention on Nigeria’s security challenges, while others argue that the issue is complex and should be handled with careful local context.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The controversy surrounding the reported alteration of newly signed tax reform laws has continued to draw sharp reactions across the country, as civil society groups, political figures and regional organisations demand clarity and accountability.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project and several northern groups have called for an investigation into alleged illegal changes made to the tax laws, which are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. President Bola Tinubu recently signed the laws.

Concerns emerged after some lawmakers, led by Sokoto lawmaker Abdussamad Dasuki, claimed that the versions of the tax bills gazetted differed from the harmonised copies passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

In response to the allegations, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, set up a seven-member committee chaired by the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Mukhtar Betara, to examine the claims.

Prominent political leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last election, Peter Obi, have urged the Federal Government to suspend implementation of the reforms until the matter is resolved.

The Presidency, however, dismissed the allegations and maintained that the reforms would proceed as planned.

In a statement issued on Sunday, SERAP urged President Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to release certified true copies of the tax bills received from the National Assembly, the versions signed into law, and those eventually gazetted.

The organisation listed the affected legislations as the National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act; the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act; the Nigeria Tax Administration Act; and the Nigeria Tax Act.

SERAP also asked the President to instruct the Attorney General to clarify whether the bills forwarded by the National Assembly were identical to the versions assented to and gazetted. It further called for the immediate constitution of an independent panel of inquiry to investigate claims of material differences between the bills passed by lawmakers and the laws published by the Federal Government.

In a Freedom of Information request dated December 20, 2025, and signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said the panel should determine how the alleged alterations occurred and identify those responsible.

According to SERAP, the panel should be chaired by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal, with its findings made public. It added that those found culpable should face prosecution.

“The panel should have the mandate to establish the facts of what exactly occurred and identify those suspected to be responsible for the alleged alterations.

‘’The proposed panel should be headed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria or the Court of Appeal. The findings of the panel should be made public. Anyone responsible for the alleged alterations must face prosecution, as appropriate.

”The organisation stated that publishing certified true copies of the bills and laws would allow Nigerians to compare them with the gazetted versions.

“Widely publishing a certified true copy of the version of the tax bills received from the National Assembly and a certified true copy of the tax laws signed by you would allow Nigerians to scrutinise the laws and compare them with the version of the tax laws ultimately gazetted,’’ it added.

SERAP warned that any unlawful changes would breach the 1999 Constitution (as amended), international human rights law, and the principles of separation of powers and the rule of law.