Meet Mama Theresa, a bold female tricycle rider in Ilorin breaking barriers and inspiring women in a male-dominated profession. Read her inspiring journey today. Mama Theresa: The Bold Female Tricycle Rider Redefining the Roads of Ilorin In Ilorin, Kwara State, one remarkable woman defies stereotypes daily. Mrs. Theresa Wunbalni, popularly known as “Mama Theresa,” is a female commercial tricycle rider who holds her head high in a profession dominated by men. Originally from Imo State and a certified nurse, she chose to embrace tricycle driving, a job she finds fulfilling and rewarding. Despite her healthcare background, Mama Theresa no longer practices nursing. Instead, she finds joy and purpose in transporting passengers around Ilorin while earning her livelihood. At 55 years old, she describes her work as deeply satisfying and values the respect she has earned in the community. From Sewing to Tricycle Riding: A Journey of Grit Before becoming a tricycle rider, Mama Theresa tried various careers, including tailoring men’s clothes and even commercial motorcycle riding. However, it was her determination to challenge norms that led her to tricycle driving, despite initial skepticism, even from her husband, a retired police officer. She recalls how her husband initially dismissed her idea of becoming a tricycle rider. However, Mama Theresa’s passion pushed her forward, and for over 15 years, she has excelled in this male-dominated profession. She proudly shares how she has transported passengers across multiple states, including Imo, Enugu, and Anambra, demonstrating resilience and expertise. Leading the Way for Women in Commercial Driving Mama Theresa has become a trailblazer in Ilorin, inspiring over 40 women to join the tricycle driving profession. With a current total of over 475 riders in the city, she stands out not only for her skill but also for her positive influence on other aspiring female riders. Unlike many others, Mama Theresa specializes in short-distance trips around the Post Office area in Ilorin, focusing on passenger safety and professional service. Overcoming Financial Challenges: Her Hire-Purchase Struggle The inspiring tricycle rider operates under a hire-purchase scheme, making daily payments of ₦8,500 from her earnings of ₦10,000 to ₦12,000. The pressure to meet these financial obligations often leaves her physically and emotionally drained, yet she continues pushing forward for her family. She appeals to kind-hearted individuals and government bodies for assistance in acquiring her own tricycle to ease her burdens and help her achieve greater financial freedom. Praise from the Community Mama Theresa’s dedication and professionalism have earned her praise from passengers. Many describe her as warm, respectful, and highly skilled. Some were initially hesitant about being driven by a female tricycle rider but were quickly impressed by her competence. Dreams of a Brighter Future Beyond personal success, Mama Theresa aspires to help more women enter the profession and achieve financial independence. Her dream is to own multiple tricycles and train other women in Ilorin, empowering them to support their families through honest work. Her story is a powerful reminder that gender should never limit one’s aspirations. Mama Theresa continues to inspire countless women in Ilorin and beyond, proving that determination and hard work can break any barrier. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Learn how the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) plans to include hidden and illegal activities in Nigeria’s GDP calculations, enhancing economic accuracy and transparency. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently announced its decision to include illegal and informal activities, such as prostitution and drug trafficking, in the computation of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The bureau also proposed 2019 as the new base year for GDP calculations and 2024 for inflation assessment, aiming for more accurate economic insights. These updates were revealed during a sensitization workshop on GDP and Consumer Price Index (CPI) rebasing, organized in partnership with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG). According to NBS, the decision to adopt 2019 as the base year stems from the year’s relative economic stability compared to later years, which were disrupted by COVID-19 and policy changes. The updated GDP calculations will cover emerging sectors like the digital economy, modular refineries, pension fund administrators, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and illegal or informal activities. Dr. Baba Madu, Head of National Accounts at NBS, elaborated on the inclusion of illegal activities, explaining that it aligns with the System of National Accounts (SNA 2008), which many countries follow. “Some nations rely heavily on illegal activities like drug trading to drive their economies,” Madu noted. He added that while such activities lack legal recognition in Nigeria, they contribute to income generation. Challenges, however, remain in obtaining reliable data and dealing with the legal and cultural implications. On hidden economic activities, Madu emphasized the difficulty of capturing accurate earnings from individuals or businesses operating informally. For instance, small shop owners who secretly trade illegal items or underreport their income pose measurement challenges. Nonetheless, these activities contribute a small fraction—less than 3.5%—to Nigeria’s GDP. Importance of GDP and CPI Rebasing Statistician-General Prince Adeyemi Adeniran stressed the significance of the rebasing exercise. He noted that as economies evolve, new industries emerge, and consumption patterns shift, statistical tools must reflect these changes. The rebasing ensures that economic indicators accurately depict Nigeria’s current realities, which is essential for informed policymaking, strategic planning, and governance. Dr. Tayo Aduloju, Chief Executive Officer of NESG, also highlighted the benefits of GDP rebasing. He explained that accurate data boosts credibility and investor confidence. For example, Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio dropped from 19% to 11% following the 2014 rebasing, enhancing the country’s creditworthiness and attractiveness to foreign investors. Aduloju further noted that rebasing enables governments to pinpoint high-growth sectors for expansion and low-growth areas for intervention, fostering balanced economic development. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Discover the alarming rise in ransom payments across South-East Nigeria, where families paid N419.2 million between July 2023 and June 2024. Explore the impact of separatist violence and regional security challenges. The South-East region of Nigeria has faced a troubling surge in violence, largely fueled by separatist groups enforcing sit-at-home orders. These actions have challenged Nigeria’s sovereignty and disrupted societal peace, with blatant disregard for lawful authority. The crisis intensified on November 18, 2024, when unknown gunmen carried out coordinated attacks on the Abatete and Ukpo communities in Anambra State. These incidents resulted in devastating casualties, including the deaths of three vigilante members and one civilian, leaving behind fear and uncertainty. Devastating Losses in South-East Nigeria One of the most tragic incidents occurred in Aba, Abia State, where an attack led to the deaths of 11 people—five military personnel and six civilians. The Nigerian Army attributed this assault to the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). These violent episodes have deeply scarred communities, with many civilians, including young people, reportedly harassed or killed during attempts to curb separatist activities. Shocking Ransom Payments in the South-East A report by SMB Morgen, a leading African market and security intelligence firm, revealed that N419.2 million was paid in ransom across the South-East between July 2023 and June 2024. This staggering figure accounted for 40% of the N1.048 billion paid nationwide during the same period. Anambra State bore the brunt of these payments, with families disbursing N350.2 million in ransom, representing a significant 88% of the total demands by kidnappers in the region. Here’s a breakdown of the ransom payments across South-East states: Nationwide Perspective on Ransom Payments In the broader context, data from the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) 2024 Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey showed that the South-East paid N85.4 billion in ransom, a smaller figure compared to the N1.2 trillion recorded in the North-West region. This alarming trend underscores the pressing need for strategic intervention to curb the rising wave of insecurity and protect citizens from these traumatic experiences. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Discover why Nigerians are facing significant Schengen visa rejection rates, with over 40% of applications denied. Explore the reasons behind this trend and its impact on global mobility. Nigerian Travellers Struggle with High Schengen Visa Rejection Rates A recent report highlights a growing challenge for Nigerian travellers seeking entry into Schengen nations. According to the Henley Global Mobility Report for January 2025, 40.8% of Schengen visa applications submitted by Nigerians in 2024 were rejected. Out of 105,926 applications, a staggering 42,940 were denied. This significant rejection rate places Nigeria among the top 20 countries with the highest visa denial rates globally, ranking 11th on the list. The trend has been largely attributed to economic hardship, passport ranking, and identity-based visa policies. Why Nigerians Are Facing Increased Rejection Rates Migration has long been a part of the Nigerian middle-class identity, but the surge in migration over the last four years is unprecedented. The country’s economic struggles, including a record-breaking inflation rate of 34.6% in November 2024, have exacerbated unemployment and a lack of opportunities. As a result, thousands of Nigerians are pursuing better prospects abroad. Nigeria’s passport currently ranks 94th globally in terms of strength, contributing to higher visa rejection rates. The report revealed that identity-based visa policies have doubled rejection rates over the past decade, creating obstacles for Nigerians and other Africans seeking economic mobility. Schengen Visa Rejections in Africa and Beyond Nigerians are not alone in facing high rejection rates. African nations collectively experience significantly higher denial rates than other continents. Six out of the top 10 countries with the highest Schengen visa rejection rates are African: Asian countries such as Pakistan (49.6%), Syria (46%), and Bangladesh (43.3%) also feature prominently on the list. Even Greece, a European Union member, has a rejection rate of 56.4%, the second-highest globally. While Africa accounts for only 2.8% of global Schengen visa applications, applicants face a rejection rate of 44.8%, underscoring the continent’s disproportionate barriers to mobility. Global Mobility Divide Widening Professor Mehari Maru from the European University Institute emphasizes the widening gap in global mobility. While the number of visa-free destinations has nearly doubled from 58 in 2006 to 111 in 2025, the disparity between the most and least mobile nations continues to grow. In 2023, African applicants faced a rejection rate 14 percentage points higher than their Asian counterparts, despite submitting only half as many applications. This trend underscores the need for more equitable mobility policies. Conclusion The high Schengen visa rejection rates for Nigerians reflect broader global challenges surrounding economic mobility and passport power. Addressing these barriers requires concerted efforts to create fairer policies that enable individuals from less mobile nations to access opportunities abroad. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Manchester United star Amad Diallo commits to long-term deal Amad Diallo, the promising Ivorian winger, has officially extended his contract with Manchester United, securing his stay at Old Trafford until 2030. The talented 22-year-old has set ambitious goals, aiming to make history with the club following his impressive recent performances. Since Ruben Amorim took over as Manchester United manager in November, Diallo has scored three goals in six appearances, showcasing his growing influence in the squad. His previous contract was set to expire at the end of the season, but his development and impact on the pitch earned him a long-term extension. Rising Star at Old Trafford Diallo, who joined Manchester United from Atalanta in 2021, has made 50 appearances and scored nine goals. Loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland previously raised uncertainty about his future with the club. However, the young winger is now emerging as a key figure in United’s lineup. Upon signing the new contract, Diallo expressed his excitement: “I’m really proud to have signed this new contract. I have had some incredible moments with this club already but there is so much more to come. I want to achieve history at Manchester United.” He also acknowledged the support received throughout his journey: “I have learned so much over the past four years, and I’m grateful to the coaches, staff, and fans for their unwavering support.” Key Contributions and Determination Diallo has already delivered crucial moments for the club, including his stoppage-time winner against Manchester City and his equalizer in the recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool. His dramatic FA Cup winner against Liverpool last year cemented his status as a fan favorite. Manchester United’s Vision for Diallo Technical Director Jason Wilcox expressed confidence in Diallo’s potential, emphasizing his importance to the club’s future: “Amad’s quality on the ball, versatility, and determination make him a key part of Manchester United’s future. His best years are still ahead, and we are committed to helping him achieve success here.” Despite Diallo’s stellar performances, Manchester United currently struggles in the Premier League, sitting 13th with just six wins in 20 matches. Amorim’s squad faces Arsenal in the FA Cup third round this Sunday, aiming to turn their season around. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu directs NADF to deploy 10,000 John Deere tractors to boost food production, with 2,000 units arriving in 2025 as part of a major agricultural mechanization initiative. ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) to lead the distribution of 10,000 John Deere tractors across Nigeria, aiming to significantly enhance food production and mechanization. The initial phase will involve the delivery of 2,000 tractors starting between Q1 and Q2 of 2025, with plans to expand to the full 10,000 units over the next five years. During the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with John Deere at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Abuja, NADF’s Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, confirmed that the first batch of tractors will arrive at Lagos port before the wet farming season begins. He emphasized that NADF has been entrusted to implement one of the Federal Government’s mechanization initiatives under President Tinubu’s leadership, designed to diversify the economy and modernize agriculture. Ibrahim detailed that after receiving Federal Executive Council approval in October 2024, NADF engaged in thorough negotiations with John Deere and consulted stakeholders through international mechanization partner Haifa to ensure effective implementation. To expedite the process, NADF has also finalized an MoU with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). This agreement will facilitate the establishment of an assembly plant near the ports, ensuring smooth distribution across the country. Engr. Okoli Chijioke, Country Director of AGCOMS International Trading Limited, the sub-dealer of John Deere tractors in Nigeria, disclosed that the MoU is valued at $70 million for the procurement of the initial 2,000 tractors. He highlighted the importance of the assembly plant in not only facilitating the delivery but also equipping Nigerian youth with the skills to maintain and assemble the machinery for long-term productivity. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, praised NADF for securing the MoU with AGCOMS and reaffirmed the Federal Executive Council’s commitment to supporting the mechanization drive. He encouraged NADF to ensure timely distribution of the tractors before the wet season, emphasizing the potential to attract young Nigerians to agribusiness. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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On January 9, 2025, the Borno State Police Command successfully repelled a Boko Haram attack on the Nganzai Police Division. Unfortunately, two brave officers lost their lives during the confrontation. The Commissioner of Police, CP Yusufu Mohammed Lawal, visited the Nganzai Police Division the same day, commending the officers for their bravery while extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen officers. This information was confirmed in a press statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, on Thursday evening. Earlier reports had surfaced regarding the tragic killing of several firewood scavengers and multiple injuries due to an explosion in the Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack on the police station occurred around 12:10 a.m. when gunmen, suspected to be Boko Haram insurgents, attempted to storm the division. Officers on duty bravely fought back, engaging in a prolonged gun battle. Tragically, the attackers resorted to using hand grenades, which exploded near a shelter behind the station, fatally wounding two officers. Following the incident, the police conducted a scene assessment where two unexploded grenades were recovered by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) – CBRN Base 13 Maiduguri. The bodies of the deceased officers were transported to the State General Hospital in Maiduguri. The Commissioner praised the courage of the officers and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining public safety and security. He called for calm, assuring that normalcy had been fully restored in the area. For emergencies, the public can reach the Command via these contact numbers: 0806 807 5581, 0802 347 3293. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Tension flared in Ado-Ekiti as OPC members and Okada riders clashed over the death of a ticketing officer, leading to injuries and multiple arrests. Ado-Ekiti was thrown into chaos on Thursday following a violent confrontation between members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and commercial motorcycle riders. The conflict reportedly stemmed from the alleged killing of a motorcycle ticketing officer, sparking heightened tension in the city. The clash, which lasted for nearly two hours in the morning, saw both parties wielding dangerous weapons, including cutlasses and knives, leaving several individuals injured. An eyewitness, who chose to remain anonymous, disclosed that the unrest began when the commercial motorcyclists accused OPC members of being responsible for the death of their ticketing officer near the Atikankan area, a known hotspot in Ado-Ekiti. Police authorities responded swiftly to the incident, deploying the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to the scene. Six suspects were apprehended during the intervention. Confirming the development, the Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, stated:“At around 11:20 a.m. on Thursday, the command received a distress call reporting a violent attack by hoodlums robbing innocent residents in the Atikankan area. Officers from the RRS were immediately deployed, leading to the arrest of six suspects who are currently under investigation. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.” READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Nigeria partners with China to domesticate military equipment production, enhancing defense self-sufficiency and strengthening diplomatic ties. The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a strategic collaboration with China to domesticate the production of military equipment. This initiative aims to reduce the delays associated with relying on foreign supplies and ensure faster access to necessary defense tools. During a joint press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, disclosed the partnership. Tuggar emphasized the importance of self-reliance in national security efforts, stating that foreign private military firms are not the solution to Nigeria’s security challenges. He highlighted Nigeria’s leadership role in maintaining peace across the African continent through strategic alliances with global powers, including China. Nigeria-China Military PartnershipThe collaboration will focus on both kinetic and non-kinetic military equipment production within Nigeria. Tuggar stressed the need for local manufacturing to avoid delays caused by extensive procurement processes from foreign sources. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working under constitutional frameworks without expansionist ambitions, which has earned global trust in the country’s leadership. China’s Perspective on the PartnershipWang Yi expressed China’s support for Nigeria’s efforts, commending the strategic cooperation initiated under President Xi Jinping and President Bola Tinubu. He highlighted three key outcomes of the partnership: Wang Yi expressed optimism that the strengthened China-Nigeria relationship would continue to promote high-quality cooperation and contribute positively to Africa’s modernization. Currency Swap AgreementThe Chinese Minister also addressed Nigeria’s proposal for a currency swap deal, expressing willingness to consider expanding the currency exchange agreement. He welcomed Nigeria’s plan to issue Panda Bonds in China, citing confidence in Nigeria’s financial credibility. The bond initiative, he noted, would provide Nigeria with secure revenue and financial support, particularly for infrastructure projects such as railway development. Conclusion:This collaboration between Nigeria and China represents a strategic move towards self-sufficiency in military equipment production while strengthening diplomatic and financial relations between both nations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Southwest Security Agencies Mobilize to Prevent Bandit Influx In response to Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent alert about the migration of bandits from North-Central to Oyo State, key security bodies including the Nigeria Police, Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun), and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) have committed to preventing the infiltration of criminal elements in the region. Various proactive measures are being deployed to safeguard communities. Ondo Amotekun Deploys 1,200 Personnel Ondo State Amotekun Commander, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the deployment of 1,200 personnel across the 18 local government areas of the state. He emphasized ongoing collaboration with security agencies and assured the public that the state remains secure against bandit activities. Oyo Amotekun Strengthens Partnerships In Oyo State, Amotekun Commandant Col. Bisiriyu Olayanju (retd) stressed the importance of collaboration with federal security agencies like the military, police, and DSS. Increased border surveillance and intelligence-sharing efforts are underway to enhance security. Osun Amotekun Boosts Intelligence Gathering Chief Superintendent of Police Adekunle Omoyele (retd), Osun Amotekun Commander, announced the intensification of intelligence gathering, focusing on preventing criminal activities like kidnapping and terrorism. The state collaborates closely with neighboring security outfits for a unified regional defense. Ekiti Government on High Alert The Ekiti State government, through Special Adviser on Security Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (retd), revealed that all security agencies are on high alert, particularly in border areas. The state is collaborating with nearby states like Kogi, Kwara, Ondo, and Osun to exchange information and strategies for crime prevention. Ogun Police Implement Preventive Measures Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo reported that security measures have been heightened across Ogun State, with Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) fully briefed to prevent any bandit influx. OPC Pledges Cooperation The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) reaffirmed its commitment to regional security, expressing readiness to collaborate with Amotekun and other security bodies to ensure the region remains free from criminal elements. Conclusion The coordinated efforts between state governments, Amotekun, the OPC, and federal security agencies highlight the collective resolve to prevent banditry in Southwest Nigeria. Vigilance and collaboration remain crucial in ensuring the safety and security of all residents. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Nnamdi Kanu has rejected the federal government’s request to resume his trial, emphasizing the need to respect Justice Binta Nyako’s recusal from the case. Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has turned down the Nigerian federal government’s move to resume his ongoing trial. The controversy began when Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court recused herself from handling Kanu’s case on September 24, following an oral request made by Kanu himself. Kanu had explicitly expressed his loss of confidence in her ability to handle his trial fairly, prompting the judge to step aside and forward the case file to the chief judge for reassignment. However, Chief Judge John Tsoho later returned the case to Justice Nyako, insisting that Kanu must submit a formal motion through a notice before the court would consider any judicial reassignment. On December 5, the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, addressed a letter to the Deputy Chief Registrar, requesting the court to set a date for trial resumption. In response, Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, opposed the trial resumption request in a letter dated December 9. He maintained that the previous decision by Justice Nyako to recuse herself remained valid and binding, emphasizing that no formal court order had overturned her withdrawal from the case. Ejimakor further argued that continuing with the trial under the same judge could mislead the court and violate constitutional principles, as the judge had already stepped down from the case. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The National Assembly has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the poor execution of capital projects in the 2024 budget, calling the current state disappointing. Lawmakers voiced concern over the significant gap between recurrent and capital expenditures, highlighting the low capital funding releases for ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). Both the Senate and House of Representatives urged the federal economic team to release more funds for capital projects immediately to ensure citizens benefit from government initiatives. This resolution followed a joint session involving the chairpersons of the Senate and House Committees on Appropriations and the Presidential Economic Team, where Senator Olamilekan Adeola (APC, Ogun West) and Abubakar Bichi presided over the budget review for 2025. The Finance Minister, Wale Edun, presented a report showing that only 25% of capital expenditure had been implemented compared to 43% for recurrent spending. Senator Adeola emphasized the need to shift budget allocations from the current 80% recurrent and 20% capital ratio to at least 60% recurrent and 40% capital, stressing that capital projects drive economic growth and directly impact citizens’ welfare. Adeola noted that withholding capital funds could hinder project completion and the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He warned that MDAs defending their 2025 budget without significant 2024 performance would face accountability challenges. Supporting these points, House Committee Chairman Bichi called for prioritizing capital projects, including schools, roads, hospitals, and other infrastructure, instead of focusing heavily on debt repayment. He argued that excessive recurrent expenditure primarily benefits only about 10% of the population, while capital projects impact over 200 million Nigerians. Finance Minister Wale Edun acknowledged the concerns and confirmed the pending release of capital funds but emphasized fiscal responsibility to avoid financial crises similar to those in France and Germany. Minister of Budget and Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, added that the large recurrent spending was linked to development challenges, such as security operations supporting agriculture and economic stability. Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, Director General of the Budget Office, attributed part of the recurrent spending to inherited financial burdens, including unpaid pensions, which the Tinubu administration had addressed. He suggested the possibility of legislative action to cap recurrent spending in future budgets. The meeting, attended by Minister of State for Finance Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite and senior ministry officials, also discussed tax waivers and holidays, which were noted to affect government revenue collection. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that six soldiers lost their lives during an attack by ISWAP (Islamic State’s West Africa Province) and Boko Haram militants on a military base in Borno State. In a statement issued yesterday, DHQ reported that 34 terrorists were neutralized in the confrontation, with 23 AK-47 rifles and over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition recovered. The incident occurred on January 4, 2025, when a group of ISWAP/Boko Haram militants on motorcycles and gun trucks launched a surprise assault on troops stationed in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack was reportedly a retaliation for the recent killing of one of their commanders and several combatants. However, the military foiled the ambush as patrol troops returning to base countered the assault swiftly. A reinforcement team, including elements from the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces, responded promptly, overwhelming the insurgents. During the operation, the reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), injuring the Vigilante Commander. Despite this, they managed to overpower the remaining terrorists. The air component of Operation HADIN KAI further targeted the fleeing militants, killing several and aiding in the successful recovery of weapons. While 34 terrorists were neutralized, six military personnel were tragically killed. DHQ noted that the names of the fallen soldiers are being withheld until their next of kin are officially informed, urging the media to respect the process. The military reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring national security, emphasizing its resolve to end insurgency in Nigeria. Since 2009, northern Nigeria has faced persistent attacks from jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, as well as criminal groups. The conflict has led to over 40,000 deaths and the displacement of approximately two million people in the northeast. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
