In a significant policy shift, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the disbursement of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash for Nigerian pilgrims attending the 2025 Hajj. This move follows Vice President Kashim Shettima’s intervention. A statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, the vice president’s spokesperson, confirmed that the CBN’s decision overturns an earlier mandate requiring pilgrims to use debit cards exclusively for Hajj-related expenses. This policy change comes after considerable concern from pilgrims and tour operators, who highlighted challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and limited financial literacy. Following a meeting with the vice president, Aliu Abdulrazaq, Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management & Finance at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), confirmed the approval of cash transactions. Abdulrazaq explained that the meeting, which focused on the government’s policy regarding BTA for the 2025 Hajj, resulted in a positive outcome for pilgrims. “The Vice President’s intervention was crucial. He invited the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank and made a plea for a more practical solution,” Abdulrazaq said. “Thanks to the Vice President’s efforts, the CBN agreed to allow pilgrims to carry cash instead of relying on a debit card. This is a significant achievement for NAHCON.” He further explained that cashless transactions presented logistical challenges for many pilgrims. In Saudi Arabia, where the majority of pilgrims go to perform their religious duties, there is often only one ATM at pilgrimage sites, and it tends to be crowded, making it difficult for pilgrims to withdraw money or make purchases. Additionally, most Nigerian pilgrims are peasant farmers with limited experience with electronic payments. Many also struggle to identify foreign currencies, making cash a more practical option for them. “With the cash now available, we are more confident that Hajj operations will proceed smoothly. The major concern was the BTA, but that issue has now been resolved,” Abdulrazaq added. NAHCON’s Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali, emphasized that this decision should not be misunderstood as a subsidy or government concession. “It’s not a subsidy or a federal government intervention. The Vice President’s intervention was made because many pilgrims prefer to make purchases on the streets of Mecca and Medina, and they do not need a debit card to do so,” he explained. “The CBN will provide the cash at the market rate.” Abba Muhammad Aliyu, Director of Human Resources at the CBN and a board member at NAHCON, elaborated on the decision’s background. “The decision was made with the pilgrims’ welfare in mind, especially considering their limited financial literacy. Many pilgrims struggle to use ATMs, so offering cash is a more suitable solution for them,” he said. This decision marks a pivotal change in Hajj operations, ensuring smoother financial transactions for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has expressed grave concern over the alarming statistics of over 80,000 Nigerian women who lose their lives annually due to toxic smoke inhalation from traditional cooking practices, such as using firewood and kerosene stoves. During a recent stakeholders’ engagement on women’s access to clean energy in Abuja, the minister highlighted the severe social and economic challenges posed by energy poverty, particularly for rural women. She described energy poverty as more than just a technical issue but a form of social injustice. “Energy poverty isn’t just a technical issue; it represents a social injustice,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated. “It keeps women trapped in cycles of unpaid labor, economic dependence, and health risks. In numerous rural areas, women spend up to eight hours weekly collecting firewood.” The minister called for an urgent partnership among stakeholders in the energy sector to provide cleaner, safer alternatives for women, especially those in underserved communities. As part of this effort, a new initiative was launched, focusing on offering solar-powered solutions for both domestic and agricultural purposes. “Through this initiative, we will ensure energy access through solar home systems, clean cooking technologies, solar-powered water pumps, e-mobility tools, and other productive-use appliances to every part of the country,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. The meeting also featured significant contributions from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), showcasing their ongoing efforts to bridge the energy access gap. Abba Abubakar-Aliyu, Managing Director of REA, shared that the $550 million Nigerian Electrification Project has already impacted approximately eight million Nigerians and 35,000 businesses, including 12,000 women-led enterprises. He further revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved an additional $750 million off-grid power project, with a large portion of the funds dedicated to mini-grids and solar home systems. “This presents a great opportunity for us to replicate and scale this intervention across the nation,” Abubakar-Aliyu stated. Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI—represented by Dr. Olayode Olasupo—also addressed the disproportionate effects of energy poverty on rural women. He explained that inadequate access to clean cooking energy, along with limited access to electricity for lighting and other essential services, restricts women’s access to vital services, reduces economic opportunities, and threatens their health and safety. Stakeholders at the event emphasized the importance of gender-sensitive energy policies and sustainable financing models to guarantee equitable access to clean energy for women in remote and rural areas. The Guardian: Energy Poverty and Its Impact on Women BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has officially inaugurated the new leadership of the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF), urging them to ensure that the state receives adequate compensation for its significant contributions to the creation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Governor Bago emphasized the importance of advocating for Nigerlites working in federal institutions within the FCT, calling for better representation and placement for them. Speaking shortly after the inauguration at the state liaison office in Abuja, Bago praised the establishment of the Forum, acknowledging it as an excellent initiative. He offered his full support, especially to its secretariat, to ensure efficient service delivery that will propel the development of the state. In his address, Bago also shared details of his administration’s long-term, mid-term, and short-term development plans. These include projects focused on bridging the infrastructural gaps and addressing key sectors in the state. The Governor revealed that these plans would span 50 years, 30 years, and 10 years, respectively. Mohammed Idris Malagi, the newly appointed Chairman of the Niger State Development Forum, reaffirmed his commitment to leading the Forum and steering it towards growth. He highlighted the Forum’s non-political nature and its commitment to the state’s progress, irrespective of political differences. Malagi outlined the Forum’s priorities, which include expanding membership, enhancing policy advisory capacity, and fostering collaborations for the development of Niger State. He also acknowledged the former leadership’s dedication and selflessness, urging the new leadership and members to stay committed to achieving meaningful progress. In his remarks, Co-Chairman Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, commended the Forum’s promising future and expressed his determination to contribute to its success, especially in line with the “New Niger” vision. Ambassador Zubairu Dada, the outgoing Chairman, expressed confidence in the new leadership, recognizing Mohammed Idris Malagi as a founding member who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Forum. He voiced trust that the Forum’s new leadership would continue to support the administration led by Governor Bago and steer the state towards greater achievements. Niger State Government Official Website Governor Bago’s Administration and Development Plans BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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More than 100,000 residents in Istanbul were forced to spend the night outdoors, fearing potential aftershocks, following a powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the city. The tremor, which occurred on Wednesday morning, originated in the Marmara Sea, just off the coast of Istanbul. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya addressed the press on Thursday, revealing that approximately 101,000 individuals had been relocated to temporary shelters, including mosques, schools, and dormitories across the city. To aid those affected, mobile catering units and tents were set up to provide food and basic necessities. By Thursday morning, authorities had recorded 266 aftershocks since the initial quake. Despite the intensity of the earthquake, Environment, Urbanisation, and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum assured the public that no residential buildings had collapsed, apart from a derelict structure in the Fatih district. Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu reported that 60 individuals were receiving medical attention in hospitals, primarily due to injuries caused by panic or by jumping from buildings during the quake. Memişoğlu confirmed that there had been 236 reported injuries, but fortunately, no fatalities. This earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic vulnerability of Istanbul, a city located near major fault lines. As residents continue to cope with the aftershocks, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population. For more information about earthquake preparedness in Istanbul, check the U.S. Geological Survey’s official site. Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently met with protesting workers from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) in Abuja. The workers have been protesting due to inadequate working conditions. The key purpose of the meeting was to discuss the workers’ grievances, including the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage, the exclusion of certain staff from past allowances, and the neglect of crucial training programs, among other concerns. The meeting was attended by the Director General of NiMET, officials from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), representatives from the National Union of Transport Employees (NUTE), and other essential stakeholders. The meeting began with a brief opening session before moving into a closed-door discussion. Various unions, including the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals, and the National Union of Air Transport Employees, were present at the meeting. This ongoing strike by NiMET workers has caused significant disruptions to flight operations at local airports. The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, announced the cancellation of all flights nationwide due to the strike, which began two days ago. In a viral video, Onyema expressed his concerns, emphasizing the safety of passengers, crew, and equipment: “If NiMET has not called off the strike, cancel every Air Peace flight now with immediate effect. People’s lives and the safety of our equipment and our crew are foremost. I don’t care if other airlines are flying. Suspend every Air Peace flight nationwide. Look at the thunderstorm everywhere. Look at the kind of weather we are going into, and NiMET, which is supposed to provide these things, is on strike, and we are flying. Suspend all flights with immediate effect, until further notice, until that strike is over, safety first.” Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Senator AbdulRahman Kawu Sumaila has stated that his commitment to the people of Southern Kano was the primary reason for his decision to leave the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). In an exclusive interview with BBC Hausa, Senator Sumaila clarified that his departure stemmed from his desire to secure more opportunities for growth and solutions for his constituency—goals he believes were unachievable within the structure of NNPP. While he acknowledged leaving the ruling party in Kano, Sumaila emphasized that his relationship with the state government would remain unaffected by this decision. His primary focus, he explained, would continue to be advancing the development of his constituency, a mission he feels would be better accomplished outside the confines of NNPP. Sumaila further elaborated that the decision was driven by various factors, with the most significant being his responsibility to improve the living conditions of the people he serves. “One of the core reasons for leaving was to explore how we can truly provide something beneficial for our people. Politics involves negotiation, collaboration, and striving for the best outcomes for the community,” he said. Despite parting ways with the NNPP, Sumaila acknowledged the party’s contributions to the recent elections, noting, “NNPP played an important role in the elections, and I too contributed in my own way.” Sumaila assured his supporters that his decision would not halt ongoing development projects in Kano. He expressed confidence that this political move would create better economic opportunities for his constituents, reaffirming that he held no regrets. “I have no regrets about leaving NNPP. Everyone is focused on finding the best solutions for their people, and that is what matters most,” he concluded. Related Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a deeply troubling incident, seven operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and two civilians have been arrested following the alleged fatal shooting of a police officer identified as Michael Isuwa in Ibusa, located in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. Tragic Incident Unfolds in Delta The incident reportedly occurred on April 23, 2025, at the residence of Chief Abuah Lucky, a prominent figure in the area. The altercation drew the attention of local law enforcement, who arrived at the scene following reports of a violent confrontation. Details Emerge from Intelligence Reports According to Zagazola Makama, a noted counter-insurgency analyst specializing in the Lake Chad region, the tragic event happened around 11:30 a.m. He shared the development on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, citing information from credible intelligence channels. Makama reported that Inspector Michael Isuwa, a police officer attached to 48 PMF Ahoada, Rivers State, was serving at Henric Empire Garden, a facility linked to Chief Lucky. His lifeless body was discovered at the entrance of the premises, drenched in blood—evidence of a gunshot wound allegedly inflicted by DSS personnel. Arrests and Ongoing Investigation In the immediate aftermath, seven DSS officers and two civilians suspected of involvement were apprehended by authorities. The deceased officer’s body was conveyed to Ibusa General Hospital Mortuary, where an autopsy has been scheduled to ascertain the precise cause of death. Security forces in Delta State have since taken control of the situation, and a full-scale investigation is currently underway to uncover the motive and events that led to the confrontation. Related Articles (LMSINT News Blog) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a major security breakthrough, the Adamawa State Police Command has apprehended at least 148 individuals linked to serious criminal activities across the state. The arrests were part of intensified operations targeting organized crime rings responsible for theft, kidnapping, and other violent offenses. According to SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the Police Public Relations Officer, the suspects were detained over a range of offenses including illegal possession of AK-47 rifles, armed robbery, culpable homicide, kidnapping, rape, and vehicle theft. These efforts were carried out under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, as part of a broader national strategy to combat crime. Among the recovered items were three stolen vehicles, now returned to their rightful owners, and a significant cache of weapons including eleven AK-47 rifles, twenty locally-made firearms, 110 rounds of live ammunition, and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), allegedly planted by Boko Haram insurgents in parts of Hong Local Government Area. The Police also succeeded in rescuing six kidnapped individuals, thanks to coordinated actions with other security operatives. CP Dankombo Morris, the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa, applauded the resilience and bravery of his officers and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across the state. These sweeping operations highlight the renewed determination of security agencies in Nigeria to suppress crime and restore public confidence in law enforcement. Related Articles BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In a developing legal case, a Magistrates’ Court sitting in Kaduna has ordered the remand of two sales representatives, Timothy James, aged 27, and Daniel Williams, aged 32, over allegations of embezzling ₦7.6 million from their employer. The accused individuals, both of whom reside in Barnawa, Kaduna State, were arraigned on charges of criminal conspiracy and theft. They denied the charges during their court appearance. Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel, presiding over the case, directed that the defendants be held in a correctional facility. The matter was postponed until May 26 for a formal decision on their bail applications. Details of the Alleged Offence According to court documents and statements presented by Inspector Chidi Leo, the lead prosecutor, the case originated from a complaint made by Michael Aaron, the owner of AA Aluminium and Steels, situated along Ahmadu Bello Way in Kaduna. Inspector Leo explained that on March 14, the defendants, alongside unidentified accomplices who are still at large, allegedly colluded to misappropriate a total of ₦7.6 million. The amount reportedly represents proceeds from sales made on behalf of the company, which the accused converted for personal use. Legal Implications The offences, which fall under Sections 58 and 217 of the Kaduna State Penal Code (2017), carry significant penalties. Section 58 stipulates a two-year prison sentence for conspiracy, while Section 217 mandates a five-year imprisonment for theft, upon conviction. RelatedArticles For a better understanding of Nigerian criminal law and penal procedures, refer to this comprehensive guide by International Centre for Nigerian Law. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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A wave of concern has swept across the Christian community in Kaduna State following the abduction of Rev. Fr. Ibrahim Amos, a Catholic priest, by armed bandits in Kurmin Risga, situated within the Kauru Local Government Area. The kidnapping took place in the early hours of Thursday at approximately 12:15 a.m., when the assailants stormed the residence of the priest at St. Gerald Quasi Parish and forcefully took him away. In an official statement released by Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, the diocese expressed deep sorrow over the incident and confirmed that efforts are ongoing to secure the priest’s release. “We appeal for continued prayers and peaceful conduct. All lawful and available resources will be utilized to ensure that Fr. Ibrahim Amos returns safely and in good health,” said Shanet. The Kaduna State Police Command has not yet made an official announcement or provided any updates regarding the current status of the case. The silence has further fueled anxiety among parishioners and the larger faith-based community, prompting calls for swift security intervention. This incident adds to the growing number of kidnappings of clergy and community leaders in northern Nigeria, an issue that continues to challenge national security agencies. Community Reactions and National Concern Religious and civil society organizations are calling on the Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities to take decisive action against rising insecurity. Many are also demanding comprehensive reforms to protect places of worship and religious leaders across volatile regions. Security analysts warn that unless proactive steps are taken, such repeated incidents could lead to widespread disillusionment in the state’s capacity to protect its citizens. Related Articles BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Renowned Nigerian musician Femi Kuti, son of the legendary Afrobeat icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has categorically denied the widely circulated notion that the late drummer Tony Allen co-founded the Afrobeat genre alongside his father. In a recently posted video on his official social media platform, Femi addressed what he described as a false narrative. He clarified that although Tony Allen was a talented drummer and worked closely with Fela as a lead percussionist and music director, he did not co-create Afrobeat. According to Femi, the rhythmic foundation and musical patterns attributed to Afrobeat were exclusively developed by Fela Kuti himself. He stated: “My father was a highly skilled multi-instrumentalist and composer. He studied music and understood every aspect of his instruments. Some people claim Fela once said, ‘Without Tony Allen, there would be no Afrobeat.’ That’s completely untrue and misleading.” Femi added that while Allen was instrumental in executing Fela’s vision, Fela taught him the drum patterns that have since become synonymous with the genre. The artist emphasized that Afrobeat’s signature beats and musical direction came solely from his father’s creativity and spiritual depth during the composition process. “Fela created the beats. He was in a spiritual trance whenever he composed music, and no one was allowed to interrupt. There are no records, interviews, or articles proving Fela credited Tony Allen with co-creating Afrobeat,” Femi insisted. He also challenged critics and commentators to provide documented evidence where Fela openly acknowledged Allen as a co-founder of Afrobeat. According to him, no such evidence exists. Tony Allen has long been hailed internationally as a key figure in Afrobeat’s development. His collaboration with Fela led to the birth of iconic tracks and a new wave of African rhythm. However, Femi’s assertion redefines the conversation, placing full creative credit on Fela Kuti alone. For a comprehensive history of Afrobeat and its cultural impact, visit BBC’s feature on Afrobeat’s evolution. (Related Articles): BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Remo Stars Ladies and Nasarawa Amazons have officially secured their positions in the prestigious Super Six Playoffs of the 2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season. Remo Stars Ladies, managed by Wemimo Matthew, sealed their historic debut in the NWFL playoffs after earning a crucial point in a rescheduled fixture against Abia Angels, ending in a thrilling 2-2 draw on Thursday. The team from Ikenne needed just a single point to guarantee their place in the championship-deciding tournament—and they delivered with a resilient performance. This achievement marks the first-ever qualification for Remo Stars Ladies into the final playoff stage, reflecting the team’s steady progression and growing prominence in Nigerian women’s football. Meanwhile, Nasarawa Amazons, under the leadership of coach Chris Danjuma, also clinched their spot after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Edo Queens on Wednesday at the Lafia City Stadium. Other teams that have already confirmed their presence in the NWFL Super Six include Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, and Rivers Angels, making the competition even more intense. The battle for the final playoff berth remains open as Naija Ratels and FC Robo Queens are set to lock horns next week in what promises to be a decisive clash to conclude the regular season. Related Articles BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, are poised to face Algeria in the second leg of the final qualifying round for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The match is scheduled for Friday at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida, Algeria. Having secured a commanding 4-0 win in the first leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, the Flamingos are determined to replicate their performance and clinch a spot in the tournament set to take place in Morocco later this year. Head coach Bankole Olowookere expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, emphasizing their motivation to secure World Cup qualification. “Our objective is clear – to win the FIFA World Cup ticket. That is the big motivation. Yet, we have been further incentivised by the monetary rewards. My girls will go all out on Friday night,” Olowookere stated. LMSINT MEDIA In recognition of their impressive performance in the first leg, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and businessman Kunle Soname awarded the team a ₦6 million cash bonus. Both NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau and Soname have confirmed that similar financial incentives are in place for the second leg, aiming to further motivate the players. Complete Sports The Flamingos have a history of strong performances in international competitions, having secured third place in the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. With a blend of experienced coaching and youthful talent, the team is focused on maintaining their momentum and achieving another decisive victory against Algeria. Relates Articles: BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
