Nigeria

By Anas Abbas

Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised 17 terrorists, arrested 85 criminal suspects, and rescued 10 kidnapped victims in a series of coordinated operations across the country within the past 48 hours.

A top military source at the Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the operations were carried out across various theatres, yielding significant breakthroughs in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.

According to the source, those arrested include Boko Haram informants, logistics suppliers, terrorist collaborators, drug traffickers, and kidnappers.

The rescued victims have been evacuated and are currently undergoing medical checks and profiling.

In the North-East, troops under Operation “Hadin Kai” sustained offensive operations under Desert Sanity IV and Diligent Search, engaging Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in multiple encounters across Borno and Adamawa States.

The source said troops of the 202 and 222 Battalions successfully repelled an ambush around Goni Kurmi and Kashomri villages in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, killing several insurgents.

Similarly, operatives of the 195 Battalion, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), apprehended a notorious Boko Haram informant and ransom collector at the Customs IDP Camp in Jere.

The suspect was tracked through monitored calls and bank transactions.Troops also recovered an AK-47 rifle stolen by terrorists, rescued two kidnapped escapees, and intercepted three logistics suppliers conveying food items to ISWAP cells in Alagarno.

In Adamawa, troops of 144 Battalion seized seven vehicles and nine motorcycles transporting 368 bags of cement suspected to be heading for terrorist enclaves in Madagali.

Elsewhere, troops recovered N4.77 million, six mobile phones, and two bicycles abandoned by fleeing insurgents along the Maiduguri–Damboa Road.

In the North-West, under Operation Fansan Yamma, troops conducted clearance operations in Sokoto and Zamfara States, arresting 69 suspected drug dealers and five terrorist collaborators.

One civilian injured during a terrorist attack along the Faru–Bagabbuzi Road in Zamfara was also rescued.

In the North-Central region, troops of Operation Enduring Peace rescued a kidnapped victim in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, and recovered several weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, a G3 rifle, a revolver pistol, and over 1,200 rounds of ammunition.

Similarly, Operation Whirl Stroke operatives apprehended two suspected kidnappers in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and destroyed a terrorist camp in Benue.In the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe intensified efforts against oil theft.

A patrol team intercepted a wooden boat loaded with 840 litres of illegally refined kerosene in Rivers State and arrested one suspect. Another patrol in Delta State seized a vehicle transporting 2,500 litres of illegal condensate.

Across all operational theatres, troops recovered at least 15 assorted weapons, 21 magazines, and large quantities of ammunition, cash, and logistics materials.

The source reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining the momentum against terrorists and criminal elements nationwide, adding that troops remain motivated and professional in their conduct.

By Anas Abbas

A joint team of security operatives on Monday dispersed protesters participating in the Omoyele Sowore-led #FreeNnamdiKanuNow demonstration in the Maitama area of Abuja.

The protesters, including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and Nnamdi Kanu’s lead counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, had gathered near the headquarters of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), chanting “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now.”

Eyewitnesses said the demonstrators were warning police officers against the use of tear gas when gunshots were suddenly fired, forcing the crowd to flee for safety.

The protest, which called for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), came despite a court order restricting demonstrations around sensitive government areas in the Federal Capital Territory.

Details later

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Government has expressed confidence in the Nigerian military amid reports of an alleged failed coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the government’s position known in an interview with newsmen on Sunday. He stated that the administration had “no reason to doubt the military” following the Defence Headquarters’ denial of the alleged coup report.

On Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, had dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters that linked the detention of 16 military officers to a failed coup.Gusau, in his statement, described the publication as “intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”

He explained that the cancellation of the 65th Independence Day celebration was “purely administrative,” allowing the president to attend a bilateral engagement abroad while troops continued operations against insecurity.

He added, “The ongoing investigation involving the 16 officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.”

Reaffirming the government’s trust in the military, Idris said, “The Federal Government has no reason to doubt the military on what it has said. The Federal Government believes that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is committed to ensuring the territorial integrity of the country and also strengthening its fight against insecurity. The Federal Government commends the military, and it will continue to support them in their task of ensuring the security of Nigeria.”

Opposition Calls For Transparency

Opposition parties, however, have urged the Federal Government and the military to ensure transparency regarding the matter.The National Publicity Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Ladipo Johnson, said Nigerians deserved to know the truth about the alleged plot.

“They should let us know what actually happened. We have to know the charges and whether they are facing court-martial or not,” he stated.

Similarly, the Labour Party’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Tony Akeni, expressed concern that the military appeared to be “speaking with two mouths.”

He said, “They said those in detention are there because of some disciplinary measures. Yet, we have sources within the rank and file saying there indeed was an issue of that nature.”

Akeni appealed to the military to “be courageous, according to the oath of their service, to bring the actual facts to the public so that innocent lives do not suffer.”

The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, also cautioned against drawing hasty conclusions.

“First of all, you need to establish the truth of the matter before you can suggest punitive measures,” he said.

He added that public frustration over the government’s performance might have contributed to the rumour, saying, “People are hungry and tired of being manipulated. So, we are not surprised the anger has gone to that particular level even in the military.”

Afenifere Warns Against Military TakeoverMeanwhile, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has cautioned against any attempt to disrupt Nigeria’s democracy, warning that a coup would have disastrous consequences.

Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, said in Ibadan that such an act “would set the country back by decades.”

He noted, “The constitution clearly stated that government cannot be changed except through constitutional means.”

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Police Command has arrested five members of a criminal syndicate that specialized in impersonating police officers to extort unsuspecting citizens across Kano, Kaduna and Katsina States.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Command’s Spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the suspects were apprehended on Thursday, October 16, 2025, around 1:00 p.m., following credible intelligence.

Those arrested were identified as Aliyu Abbas (35), Sani Iliyasu (47), Ashiru Sule (41), Abubakar Yahaya (45), and Adamu Kalilu (45).

They were nabbed by operatives of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) while parading themselves as police officers.

According to the statement, several incriminating items were recovered from the suspects, including a fake police warrant card, handcuffs, CFA 2,500, mutilated naira notes of various denominations, and a blue Peugeot 406 with registration number NSR-188-BD used for their operations.

“During investigation, the suspects confessed to engaging in a series of impersonations using the fake warrant card to extort innocent citizens and carry out other criminal acts in Kano, Katsina, and Kaduna States,” the statement added.

SP Kiyawa said the suspects would be charged to court upon the completion of the investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that the police would not tolerate any form of criminal impersonation or illegal activity in the state.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or persons to the nearest police station.

By Rabiu Elkanawi

Mr Sulaiman Abbas, a Nigerian-born researcher, is contributing significantly to scientific innovation with his groundbreaking work that has the potential to transform global approaches to climate change.

Abbas, having obtained his MSc from Tianjin University in China, co-authored a highly cited paper on interface engineering for the electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂). His research investigates the potential of meticulously engineered nanomaterials and catalyst interfaces to transform CO₂, a significant factor in climate change, into useful fuels and industrial chemicals.

“I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to identifying solutions in the face of challenges,” Abbas stated. 

In Nigeria, industries and power stations emit significant quantities of CO₂, which is frequently regarded merely as waste. My research aims to convert waste gas into valuable resources for energy production and manufacturing.

This study elucidates the engineering of metal–metal, metal–oxide, and molecular interfaces to facilitate the efficient breakdown of CO₂, addressing the resilient chemical bonds that complicate its processing. Abbas’s research enhances catalyst performance, indicating novel methods for producing clean fuels, chemicals, and power storage systems, while simultaneously decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Nigeria’s reliance on oil and gas causes environmental issues like rising emissions. Abbas’ research suggests capturing CO₂ from industries, developing low-carbon sectors for green jobs, and rural electrification using CO₂ conversion with solar and wind energy.

Mr Abbas is pursuing a PhD in Solid State Chemistry at the University of Cincinnati and is part of international networks on sustainability and clean energy. His work highlights a circular carbon economy, where Nigeria and developing nations turn environmental challenges into innovation catalysts.

In the pursuit of carbon-neutral technologies, innovators such as Mr Abbas demonstrate that Nigeria’s emerging scientists are prepared to take a leadership role.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 21 individuals who were held captive by bandits, some for more than four months.

The group of freed hostages includes four Chinese nationals.The rescue was carried out on October 17 by a combined force from the 12 Brigade in Lokoja and the 22 Armoured Brigade in Ilorin, operating under the 2 Division/Sector 3 of Operation FANSAN YAMA.

According to an army press release signed by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the victims—comprising 14 men, 5 women, 1 infant, and the four Chinese citizens—were abducted from various locations across Kwara and Kogi States.

The military stated that its “intensified offensive” pressure forced the bandits to abandon their captives, leading to their rescue.

Following their release, the victims received immediate first aid and were evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment.

Officials reported that many were physically weak and unable to walk without assistance due to extreme exhaustion but are now responding positively to medical care.

Major General CR Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding the 2 Division, sympathized with the victims and reassured the public of the army’s commitment to its ongoing campaign.

“The Division remains committed to sustaining the ongoing onslaught against all criminal elements,” Major General Nnebeife stated.

“There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminals within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.”

The GOC also acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies in the successful operation, directing his troops to “maintain the tempo” to restore peace and security in the region.

The rescued victims are expected to be reunited with their families after making a full recovery.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The National Industrial Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing in a lawsuit filed against the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

According to a court notice, the case (NICN/ABJ/214/2025), brought by Maidu Shehu and nine others, will be mentioned before the court on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

The notice, dated September 1, 2025, and addressed to the claimants’ counsel, A.A. Hikima, Esq., directs all parties to appear before the court sitting in Garki, Abuja, for the proceedings.

The suit names the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and three other defendants, though the specific details of the claimants’ grievances were not disclosed in the notice.

The upcoming mention is typically a procedural hearing to address pre-trial matters and prepare the case for a full trial.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal Government has clarified that no inmates have been released under the recent presidential pardon, as the process is still undergoing a final administrative review.

In a press statement on October 16, 2025, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), stated that the exercise is at its last stage to ensure full compliance with legal and procedural requirements.

The clarification comes amid public speculation regarding the implementation of the clemency approved by the President following the Council of State’s endorsement.

Fagbemi explained that the final step involves issuing the formal instruments for the release of each beneficiary.

This stage, he noted, allows for a final verification of the list to correct any potential errors before the documents are sent to the Controller-General of Corrections for action.

“This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence,” the AGF stated.

He reiterated that the process is not delayed but is meticulously following the law to ensure only duly qualified individuals benefit.

“The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” Fagbemi said, adding that the public would be duly informed once all checks are concluded.

The Minister also appreciated the public’s vigilance, noting that such engagement strengthens institutional integrity and demonstrates a collective care for justice and good governance.

By Halima Abdulsalam Muhd

For decades, many Nigerian communities benefited from a rigorous weekly sanitation exercise led by duba gari or community health monitors who inspected homes and surroundings for hygiene compliance. These dedicated individuals went from house to house, checking toilets, kitchens, bedrooms, and waste disposal areas. Offenders were fined ₦50, a penalty that not only discouraged negligence but also ensured that communities maintained high sanitation standards.

Today, however, that once-vibrant practice has largely disappeared, leaving neighbourhoods grappling with mounting sanitation challenges, from blocked drainage to increased cases of cholera and malaria. Residents and experts alike are calling for the revival of this community-driven initiative.

Voices from the Community

Malama Hadiza Musa, a trader in Naibawa, recalled how effective the system used to be. “When the duba gari came every week, we had no choice but to clean up. Everywhere was tidy, even the backyards. Now, people dump refuse carelessly, and it is affecting all of us,” she lamented.

Mr Aliyu Garba, a retired civil servant, shared similar sentiments, “Back then, sanitation was part of our lives. Today, gutters are clogged, and mosquitoes breed everywhere. We need to bring back that system before things get worse.”

For Zainab Abdullahi, a mother of four, the absence of weekly inspections has created health concerns for families. Children now play around in dirty environments. If sanitation checks were still happening, parents would take cleaning more seriously.”

Community leader Malam Ibrahim Tukur believes the fines encouraged responsibility, “₦50 may look small today, but it carried weight at that time. It wasn’t about the money—it was about discipline. People feared being fined, so they kept their homes clean.”

Meanwhile, younger residents like Suleiman Adamu, a university student, argue that modern approaches should complement the old system, “We can bring it back, but alongside awareness campaigns and community waste management systems. Punishment alone may not be enough.”

Expert Perspectives

Environmental experts warn that abandoning structured sanitation monitoring has far-reaching effects.

Dr Fatima Yakubu, an environmental health specialist, emphasised the connection between sanitation and public health: “Poor sanitation directly contributes to outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and malaria. Weekly inspections used to act as preventive measures. Reviving them could save lives and reduce health costs.”

Similarly, Prof. Emmanuel Okafor, an environmental scientist at Ahmadu Bello University, stressed the economic implications, “Communities spend more on healthcare when sanitation breaks down. By reinstating duba gari inspections, we are not just promoting cleanliness—we are reducing disease burden and increasing productivity.”

The Way Forward

Local governments, community associations, and traditional rulers are being urged to reintroduce house-to-house sanitation, perhaps updating the fines to reflect current realities while also integrating modern waste management solutions.

As Mrs Aisha Danladi, a public health advocate, put it, “We need a collective effort. The duba gari system worked before; it can work again. Our health and environment depend on it.”

Halima Abdulsalam wrote from Bayero University, Kano, via haleemahm42@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called for the closure of schools in Nigeria that charge tuition fees in foreign currencies, describing the practice as a major economic loophole undermining the value of the naira.

Alake made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during the Nigeria Gold Day Celebration, held on the sidelines of the 10th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week with the theme, “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance.”

The minister expressed concern over what he termed “economic contradictions” in the country, arguing that allowing local institutions to charge fees in foreign currencies puts unnecessary pressure on the naira.

“I am still going to make a proposal to the Federal Executive Council that all those schools in Nigeria that are charging in foreign currencies should be closed,” Alake said.

“These are some of the leakages and loopholes in our economy that people don’t take seriously. If your child attends a school in Abuja or Lagos and pays $10,000 or £10,000, you’ll have to exchange naira for dollars, pushing up the value of the foreign currency. You can’t go to the UK and establish a school charging in naira it’s only in this country such contradictions exist.”

Alake said the Federal Government was intensifying efforts to plug financial leakages across the minerals sector through digital mechanisms and stricter oversight, particularly within the gold value chain.

He noted that the government’s National Gold Purchase Programme (NGPP), implemented through the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), was designed to boost Nigeria’s foreign reserves and strengthen the naira by purchasing gold directly from artisanal miners in local currency.

The minister added that the initiative, a component of the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative, would also reduce informal transactions and curb corruption in the sector.

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the SMDF, Fatima Shinkafi, said funding for gold exploration in Nigeria was on an upward trajectory, unlike global trends.She encouraged investors to take advantage of the country’s growing opportunities in gold mining.

“We implore everyone here to examine Nigeria’s gold resources and support the minister’s efforts to make Nigeria a premier destination for junior miners,” Shinkafi said.

“By next year’s Gold Day, we should be looking at Nigeria as a turning point in the global gold market.”

The Nigeria Mining Week, which runs from October 13 to 15, is organised by the Miners Association of Nigeria, in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the VUKA Group.