In a major political development in Rivers State, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has formally shifted its allegiance from the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. This decisive move signals a significant realignment of political loyalty within the Ijaw community in the state. The announcement was made by the congress chairman, Senator George Sekibo, during Wike’s “thank you” visit to Okrika Local Government Area on Saturday. Sekibo described the ongoing feud between Wike and Fubara as “very unfortunate,” emphasizing that the Ijaw people have never been ungrateful for the support they have received in the past. Wike’s Role in Fubara’s Emergence Recalling history, Sekibo highlighted how Wike played a crucial role in supporting Fubara, an Ijaw son, in his successful bid to become the Governor of Rivers State. The chairman stressed that the Ijaw people remain appreciative of Wike’s past efforts. “Please don’t consider us ungrateful. Ijaw people are known for their gratitude. That is precisely why we have chosen to abandon him [Fubara] and pledge our loyalty to you [Wike]. You have done a great deal for the Ijaw community in Rivers, and we will continue to follow your guidance,” Sekibo declared. Local Government Leaders Align with Wike Adding to this political shift, Akuro Tobin, chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, referred to Wike as his “political godfather.” Tobin lauded Wike for supporting numerous sons and daughters from Okrika LGA to secure key political appointments and elected offices across the state. He assured the minister that the people of Okrika LGA—men, women, and youth—stand firmly behind him and President Bola Tinubu, demonstrating unwavering political solidarity. Wike Appreciates Loyalty In response, Minister Wike expressed gratitude to the Ijaw people for their support, emphasizing the importance of backing leaders with integrity and proven character. He also acknowledged President Tinubu as a leader who honors his commitments, urging residents to continue supporting trustworthy and competent politicians. This alignment marks a significant shift in Rivers State politics, reflecting broader dynamics in regional loyalty and influence among key communities. Political analysts suggest that the Ijaw Congress’s decision could have implications for upcoming local and national elections.
A civil society organisation, the Civil Rights Network on Accountability (CRNA), has strongly criticised Nigeria’s fiscal leadership and urged the National Assembly to pass a vote of no confidence on the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, over what it described as a complete breakdown in budget execution. In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, and jointly signed by the group’s President, Chief Adekunle Ogunsiwaju, and its National Secretary, Nkiru Okoye, the organisation expressed deep concern over the failure to implement even a minimal portion of the 2025 national budget, months after the fiscal year commenced. According to CRNA, the inability of the finance ministry and the office of the accountant-general to activate any measurable percentage of the approved budget amounts to gross incompetence and represents a serious violation of public trust. The group described the situation as an alarming collapse of fiscal coordination at the core of government operations. The organisation warned that institutions responsible for managing public finances have instead become barriers to governance, stressing that the finance ministry and the treasury should function as engines for national development, not obstacles to service delivery. CRNA stated that the continued delay in implementing the 2025 budget is unjustifiable and reflects a lack of coordination, accountability, and transparency in the handling of public resources. Budget implementation, the group emphasised, is not a symbolic or ceremonial process but a fundamental pillar of governance. It noted that delays at the treasury level have direct consequences, including stalled capital projects, unpaid government obligations, rising frustration among citizens, and worsening economic hardship nationwide. The group further argued that when officials tasked with managing the nation’s finances are unable to activate even the most basic components of a legally approved budget, the issue transcends administrative failure and becomes a full-blown governance crisis. CRNA questioned how key fiscal officials have spent the months since the budget was signed into law, while Nigerians continue to face economic strain, inflationary pressure, and uncertainty. The organisation also cautioned that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to retain both officials despite what it called persistent failures could significantly damage the administration’s credibility and derail its economic reform agenda. According to CRNA, if the current fiscal leadership remains in office, the March 31 deadline for partial implementation of the 2025 budget risks collapsing entirely. The group argued that fiscal discipline and economic reforms cannot succeed under officials who have failed to demonstrate urgency, competence, or capacity. CRNA further accused both offices of operating an opaque system marked by weak communication and poor public accountability. It lamented the absence of clear timelines for budget execution, lack of transparency in cash releases, and failure to provide Nigerians with credible explanations for the prolonged paralysis. The group stressed that such dysfunction would be unacceptable in any serious democracy and undermines public confidence in government institutions. Calling on the Senate and the House of Representatives, CRNA urged lawmakers to exercise their constitutional oversight responsibilities decisively. It argued that a vote of no confidence would send a clear message that fiscal recklessness and administrative inertia will no longer be tolerated. The organisation maintained that such an action should not be viewed as political hostility but as a constitutional duty to protect the interests of Nigerian citizens when critical state institutions fail to perform. CRNA warned that continued paralysis in budget execution would worsen poverty levels, delay critical infrastructure projects, and further erode public trust, particularly at a time when Nigerians are already struggling with unemployment and rising living costs. The group concluded by stressing that the issue is not about political rivalry but about competence, accountability, and responsible governance, insisting that Nigeria cannot afford fiscal leadership synonymous with delay, confusion, and systemic failure.
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Bashir Ahmad, who previously served as a media aide to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, has strongly criticized what he described as the United States’ invasion of Venezuela, calling it an example of extreme double standards in global politics. Ahmad expressed his view through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, reacting to reports surrounding the unfolding situation involving Venezuela and its leadership. According to information reported by LMSINT MEDIA, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife had been captured. The announcement sparked widespread reactions and renewed debates across international political circles. Following this development, authorities in the United States disclosed that President Maduro was facing allegations connected to drug trafficking and terrorism-related activities. These accusations further intensified global discussions about international law, sovereignty, and the consistency of foreign policy actions by world powers. Reacting to the situation, Bashir Ahmad drew a comparison between the United States’ actions in Venezuela and Russia’s military operation in Ukraine. He pointed out that when Russia launched an attack on Ukraine, the move was broadly condemned and labeled a serious international crime. However, Ahmad argued that the narrative appeared to change when the United States became involved in Venezuela. In his words, what is considered aggression in one scenario is framed as freedom or liberation in another, depending on who is carrying out the action. He stated that the same action condemned on one global stage was being justified on another, describing this contrast as a “staggering hypocrisy.” His comment has since generated conversations online about fairness, accountability, and the selective application of international standards. The statement adds to ongoing debates about how powerful nations interpret and enforce global rules, especially when military or political interests are involved
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Reports emerging from the United States suggest that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is expected to face criminal prosecution in America following an alleged arrest by U.S. forces. According to a senior Republican lawmaker, Senator Mike Lee, discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that American military personnel carried out an operation aimed at safeguarding officials tasked with executing an existing arrest warrant against Maduro. The senator stated that the mission’s primary objective was to ensure the safe enforcement of that warrant. Senator Lee further explained that, based on information he received, the United States does not intend to pursue additional military operations within Venezuela, noting that the goal had already been achieved with Maduro reportedly in U.S. custody. These claims followed a public announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier disclosed that American forces had taken control of Nicolás Maduro and his wife during what he described as a significant military operation conducted on Venezuelan territory. Trump characterized the action as decisive and large-scale, signaling a major escalation in U.S.–Venezuela relations. In response to the announcement, the Venezuelan government declared a state of emergency, accusing Washington of engaging in direct military aggression against the country. Residents of Caracas, the nation’s capital, described hearing loud blasts and witnessing fires in several neighborhoods. Many civilians reported widespread panic, fear, and uncertainty as events unfolded overnight. For years, the United States has accused Nicolás Maduro of overseeing an international drug trafficking network, allegations that Maduro has consistently rejected. U.S. authorities previously announced a $50 million reward for information that could lead to his arrest, alongside heightened military readiness and pressure within the region. The situation marks a critical moment in the long-standing tensions between Washington and Caracas, with global attention now focused on the legal, political, and diplomatic consequences that may follow if Maduro is formally tried in the United States.
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Prominent Muslim leaders in Nigeria have issued a strong warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to refrain from interfering in Nigeria’s internal affairs following recent comments he made concerning security issues in the country. The warning came after Netanyahu stated that Israel would collaborate with the United States to confront attacks on Christians in Nigeria. He made this assertion during a Christmas Day message addressed to Christian Zionist supporters, where he declared that Israel was prepared to “open a new front” to protect Christians allegedly facing persecution in several nations, including Nigeria, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey. The remarks quickly sparked reactions within Nigeria, particularly among Muslim groups who viewed the statement as inappropriate and intrusive. One of the strongest responses came from the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), which criticized Netanyahu’s position and questioned his credibility on issues related to terrorism and human rights. Reacting to the statement on Friday, MUSWEN described Netanyahu’s comments as ironic, arguing that it was contradictory for him to speak about combating terrorism in Nigeria while, according to their view, being involved in acts of violence against Palestinians. Speaking on behalf of the organization, MUSWEN’s Executive Secretary, Professor Wole Abbas, expressed deep concern over the statement. He described Netanyahu’s intention to collaborate with former U.S. President Donald Trump in addressing terrorism in Nigeria as unfortunate and troubling. According to Abbas, the actions attributed to Netanyahu in Gaza far exceed what could be described as terrorism. Professor Abbas further stated that Netanyahu has been declared wanted by the International Court of Justice and accused him of continuing acts of genocide in Gaza. He questioned how someone facing such serious allegations could present himself as a solution to security challenges in another sovereign nation like Nigeria. “I find it difficult to understand what the world is witnessing today,” Abbas said. “A person accused of committing genocide now wants to intervene in Nigeria’s internal security matters. Such an individual should be arrested and prosecuted for crimes against humanity.” The criticism was not limited to religious organizations. A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also dismissed Netanyahu’s offer of support. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Ahmad emphasized that Nigeria does not require foreign military intervention to address its security challenges. He warned that any form of external military action, including airstrikes or armed involvement by foreign nations, would be unnecessary and would amount to a direct violation of Nigeria’s sovereignty. Ahmad stressed that Nigeria remains capable of handling its internal security matters without external interference. The reactions highlight growing concerns among Nigerian leaders over foreign involvement in the country’s affairs and reinforce calls for respect for Nigeria’s independence and territorial integrity.
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The Rivers State Executive Council has given its approval to a ₦1.854 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 financial year. The approval was granted on Friday following extensive deliberations during the Executive Council meeting. The proposed spending plan is officially titled the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development.” This EXCO session, which was the first council meeting held in 2026, was chaired by the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, alongside other members of the state executive council. After the meeting concluded, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Economic Matters and Social Development, Professor Peter Medee, addressed journalists to provide clarity on the outcome of the deliberations. According to Professor Medee, the council approved a total budget estimate of ₦1,854,248,734,475.76. He explained that the allocation is specifically intended for the delivery of goods and services across Rivers State throughout the 2026 fiscal year. He further stated that the proposed budget was carefully structured to align with the developmental agenda and strategic priorities of the Fubara administration. The estimate, he noted, reflects the government’s focus on sustaining growth while strengthening resilience in key sectors of the state’s economy. Professor Medee also emphasized that the 2026 budget proposal is expected to accommodate and address several critical obligations of the state, ensuring continuity in governance and service delivery.
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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly responded to recent remarks credited to the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, concerning political realignments involving supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Governor Fubara, while speaking at a New Year banquet held in Port Harcourt, stated that some notable political figures who previously aligned with Atiku Abubakar have now shifted their loyalty in his direction and are also backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to Fubara, individuals such as Prince Uche Secondus, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Alabo Abiye Sekibo, and former Rivers State Governor Sir Celestine Omehia are currently supporting his administration and President Tinubu. However, Wike dismissed the political relevance of the claim, insisting that those mentioned failed to make any meaningful impact during the 2023 presidential election. He argued that their influence was minimal and did not significantly contribute to Atiku Abubakar’s electoral performance in Rivers State. Speaking during an engagement in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) Local Government Area of Rivers State, Wike maintained that the political strength of those individuals is being exaggerated. He emphasized that they were unable to secure even 10 percent of the total votes for Atiku during the last presidential contest. Wike questioned the strategic value of presenting such figures as major political assets, stressing that their past electoral performance speaks for itself. According to him, the claim that they now command strong political influence does not align with the voting outcome recorded in 2023. In the same address, the former Rivers State governor reassured President Bola Tinubu of unwavering support ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He stated clearly that his political camp would work tirelessly to ensure that the president receives the level of backing necessary to secure victory when the time comes. Without mentioning names directly, Wike noted that the political actors in question are well known and that their previous inability to mobilize voters makes their current alignment insignificant in determining future electoral outcomes. He reiterated his commitment to mobilizing solid grassroots and institutional support for Tinubu. Beyond electoral matters, Wike also reacted strongly to comments made by the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Mbata, who reportedly referred to him as a semi-illiterate. Wike described the statement as unnecessary and misleading but said he felt compelled to respond. He countered the remark by highlighting his academic background, explaining that while Mbata reportedly dropped out of Rivers State University during his law studies, he himself successfully completed his education at the University of Port Harcourt, proceeded to law school, and later attained the status of a Life Bencher. Wike further emphasized that despite being labeled a “semi-illiterate,” he currently holds the fourth highest national honour in Nigeria, a recognition he said reflects his contributions to national development and public service.
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The Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodinma, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, with a strong focus on strengthening cooperation aimed at advancing development across the South-East region. Governor Uzodinma arrived for the meeting alongside a former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim. According to him, the engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the five South-East governors to exchange ideas and identify practical ways to improve the living conditions of residents across the zone. During the discussion, Uzodinma emphasized that meaningful progress within the South-East cannot be achieved in isolation. He stressed that unity and a shared developmental vision among the region’s governors remain essential for addressing common challenges and ensuring sustainable growth. He further explained that the governors have continued to explore collective approaches that would enable the people of the South-East to better cope with prevailing economic and social realities. According to him, collaboration remains the strongest tool available to the region’s leadership. The Imo State Governor also dismissed claims suggesting that the visit had political undertones linked to the 2027 general elections. He clarified that the visit was a New Year goodwill engagement and an opportunity to commend Governor Otti for what he described as commendable governance efforts in Abia State. Uzodinma reiterated that, as Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, he carries the responsibility of maintaining close contact with his counterparts. He noted that regular interaction allows the governors to deliberate, share perspectives, and jointly agree on strategies that can improve the welfare of citizens across the region. According to him, the five governors of the South-East have collectively resolved to ensure that the region remains fully integrated within the Nigerian project. He assured that their continuous engagements are centered on promoting unity, stability, and development within the zone. In his response, Abia State Governor Alex Otti expressed appreciation for the visit and welcomed the spirit of cooperation it represented. He also dismissed any political interpretation of the meeting, noting that differences in political party affiliation should not be mistaken for rivalry or opposition. Governor Otti emphasized that governance and regional progress should transcend party lines, reaffirming his commitment to working with fellow governors for the overall interest of the South-East.
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Prominent indigenes of Awka Ancient Kingdom, the capital territory of Anambra State, alongside advocates of Igbo cultural preservation, have openly challenged the Anambra State Government over its response to a traditional chieftaincy title recently bestowed on the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. The group strongly criticized what it described as unnecessary and disrespectful interference by the state government following the conferment of the revered title “Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora”, meaning The Light of the Community, on the widow of the late Igbo icon and nationalist leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu (Ikemba Nnewi). The chieftaincy title was formally conferred late last year by His Imperial Majesty, Obi Dr. Austin Chukwuezugo Ndigwe, MON, JP, Ezeuzu III of Awka, in recognition of Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu’s enduring contributions to the Igbo nation and Nigeria at large. However, the Anambra State Government later issued a disclaimer rejecting the conferment, describing it as invalid and alleging that the traditional ruler involved was an impostor. This position has since drawn sharp opposition from members of the Awka community. According to the concerned sons and daughters of Awka, the government’s action represents a serious affront to the independence of their traditional institutions and an unacceptable intrusion into matters that fall solely within the authority of the Awka people. In a detailed statement issued by Prof. Emmanuel Obi on behalf of Awka Sons and Daughters, and in solidarity with Obi Dr. Austin Ndigwe, Ezeuzu III, the group described the attack on Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as unwarranted and deeply troubling. The statement emphasized that the customs, traditions, and cultural expressions of Awka are sacred and cannot be subjected to administrative directives or political convenience. According to the group, these traditions have been preserved across generations and remain exclusively under the control of Awka indigenes, who alone possess the authority to select, crown, and affirm their leaders based on ancestral laws and established cultural norms. The group further explained that Obi Dr. Austin Ndigwe emerged as Ezeuzu III following a unanimous decision by the Oha Awka (Council of Elders), the Ndichie (titled men), and the wider Awka community. This process, they noted, was rooted in extensive consultations, rituals, and communal affirmations that align fully with Awka heritage. Any attempt to describe such leadership as unrecognized or illegitimate, they warned, undermines Igbo traditional governance and threatens the autonomy of indigenous communities. Addressing the conferment of the chieftaincy title on Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, the group stated that the honor was both appropriate and symbolic. They described her as a respected daughter of Igboland, a figure of dignity and resilience, and a representative of enduring service whose late husband remains a central pillar of Igbo history. They noted that in her capacity as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu continues to project Anambra State and Igboland positively at both national and international levels. The title “Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora”, they added, was conferred during a well-attended traditional ceremony in Awka and carries full cultural legitimacy within the community. Any attempt to discredit the title, according to the statement, amounts to a direct assault on Awka’s cultural sovereignty. The statement also reminded the state government that traditional rulership in Igboland predates colonial administration and modern political structures. It operates independently of government certifications or official endorsements. The group cautioned that when governments interfere in traditional matters, history has shown that such actions often lead to division, tension, and weakened communal bonds. In conclusion, the Awka sons and daughters called on Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo and his administration to withdraw all statements or actions that question the legitimacy of the chieftaincy title. They reaffirmed that the crowning of Ezeuzu III reflects the unity and collective will of the Awka people and cannot be overturned by external forces. They stressed that Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu’s title remains valid, respected, and celebrated within the community by those who truly understand and uphold Awka traditions.
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Russia has accused Ukraine of being responsible for the deaths of at least 27 people following an alleged drone strike carried out during a New Year celebration in the Russian-occupied Kherson region of southern Ukraine. According to claims made by the Russia-appointed governor of the region, Vladimir Saldo, the incident occurred in the coastal village of Khorly, located along the Black Sea. He stated that the attack targeted a hotel and café where a New Year gathering was taking place, resulting in numerous casualties. Saldo further alleged that more than 30 individuals sustained injuries during the incident. When contacted by the BBC for clarification, Ukrainian officials declined to respond directly to statements issued by representatives of territories under Russian occupation. However, Ukraine reiterated its position that it strictly follows international humanitarian law and only conducts military operations against legitimate military objectives. A report by the AFP news agency quoted a source within Ukraine’s defence forces who acknowledged that a strike had occurred in the area. According to the source, the operation was aimed at what was described as a military assembly and was reportedly inaccessible to civilians at the time. Saldo claimed that the attack involved three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which allegedly struck both a café and a hotel situated along the Black Sea coastline in Khorly. Independent verification of these claims, including the reported death toll, has not been possible. The regional governor also stated that he personally briefed Russian President Vladimir Putin about the incident. Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine confirmed that it was aware of reports concerning the alleged strike. The mission noted that it would assess the claims, verify any civilian harm, and include its conclusions in future publications. Images circulated by Russian state-controlled media showed extensive structural damage to a building, including a collapsed roof. One photograph appeared to depict a body covered with a sheet. Although Russian-installed officials did not publicly identify the exact location, the damaged structure resembles a three-storey hotel and restaurant previously known as “Ukrainian House,” now reportedly operating under the name “Buganova’s Café.” Visual materials from the café’s website appear to match several architectural details visible in the images released by Russian media outlets. Russia’s Investigative Committee announced that it has launched a formal inquiry into the alleged attack. In addition, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement accusing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of attempting to intimidate residents in territories that Russia claims have permanently joined the country through referendums. Russia currently controls more than half of the Kherson region, which it declared annexed following a referendum in 2022. The vote was rejected by Ukraine and widely criticized by its international partners, who described it as illegitimate. The reported incident comes at a time when diplomatic discussions aimed at ending the conflict remain ongoing. In his New Year address, President Zelensky stated that a potential peace agreement with Russia, facilitated by the United States, was “90% ready.” Earlier in the week, Russian authorities accused Ukraine of attempting a drone strike on one of President Putin’s residences, an allegation that Kyiv strongly denied. Additionally, Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service released a statement on Friday alleging that Russia was preparing large-scale provocations involving civilian casualties, claiming such actions were intended to disrupt ongoing peace negotiations.
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Former United States President Donald Trump has sent a stern message to Iran’s leadership, cautioning them against the violent suppression of civilians taking part in ongoing demonstrations. He stated that the United States would step in if Iranian authorities continued to kill unarmed protesters. Trump shared this warning through a short statement on social media, declaring that the US was fully prepared to respond if necessary. He wrote that America was “locked and loaded and ready to go,” without explaining what form such involvement might take. The message quickly drew a response from within Iran. A top adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reacted by cautioning Trump to exercise restraint. He warned that any American intervention could trigger widespread instability across the Middle East, potentially creating serious regional consequences. Reports from Iran indicate that at least eight people have lost their lives following nearly a week of nationwide demonstrations. These protests reportedly erupted due to worsening economic hardship, rising living costs, and declining living standards, which have fueled public anger. In a follow-up post shared on Friday via Truth Social, Trump restated his position in stronger terms. He warned that if Iranian security forces shot or violently killed peaceful demonstrators, the United States would intervene to protect them. However, he did not clarify what actions Washington might take against Tehran. The warning comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. Earlier in June, US forces conducted targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities following direct authorization from Trump. American officials later claimed the attacks significantly delayed Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons, though Iranian authorities rejected this assessment. Iran responded to the strikes by launching missile attacks on a major US military installation located in Qatar, escalating already strained relations between the two nations. Following Trump’s recent statement, Ali Larijani, a senior adviser to Ayatollah Khamenei, issued a firm response on social media. He warned that any US involvement in Iran’s internal affairs would not only destabilize the region but also severely damage America’s strategic interests throughout the Middle East. As protests persist and diplomatic tensions rise, the situation continues to attract global attention, with concerns growing over the possibility of wider regional fallout if the standoff escalates further.
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The Commander of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, has expressed strong commendation for the officers and soldiers of the 114 Battalion (Rear), Jimilari, citing their outstanding professionalism, resilience, and unwavering loyalty in the execution of their constitutional duties. Brigadier General Uwa gave this commendation on Friday during a New Year luncheon organized in honour of the troops. The event was held at the battalion’s location in Jimilari, within Lau Local Government Council, and was aimed at appreciating the dedication, sacrifices, and commitment consistently demonstrated by the personnel, particularly in the course of ongoing military operations across the brigade’s area of responsibility. While addressing the soldiers, the Brigade Commander emphasized that their collective efforts have continued to play a vital role in strengthening peace and security, as well as safeguarding lives and property within the region. He noted that their discipline and professionalism have significantly contributed to operational effectiveness and public confidence in the Nigerian Army. The Commander further acknowledged the immense personal sacrifices made by the troops, including extended operational deployments and long periods spent away from their families. He described these sacrifices as fundamental to the strength and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army, stressing that the commitment of personnel remains the backbone of the force. Brigadier General Uwa reassured the officers and soldiers of the command’s continued dedication to improving their welfare, sustaining high morale, and enhancing overall operational readiness. According to him, the well-being of troops remains a top priority, as it directly influences mission success and service delivery. As the New Year begins, the Brigade Commander urged the personnel to remain disciplined, loyal, and professional in the discharge of their duties. He encouraged them to consistently uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army while maintaining vigilance and teamwork in all operational engagements. He also expressed confidence that the brigade would record even greater operational achievements through unity, renewed dedication, and sustained commitment to service. In a clear demonstration of his “Soldiers First” leadership philosophy, Brigadier General Uwa was personally observed serving meals to the troops during the luncheon, an act that further reinforced his commitment to leading by example and fostering a strong bond between command and personnel.
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US President Donald Trump has once again sparked conversations about his health, claiming that he maintains “perfect” health, takes a higher daily dose of aspirin than typically advised by medical professionals, uses makeup to conceal bruising on his hands, and avoids regular exercise because he finds it “boring.” In an extensive interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump shared new details about his health regimen, including undergoing a medical scan in October. He clarified that he had a CT scan, contrary to earlier reports in which he mistakenly described it as a more detailed MRI scan. At 79 years old, Trump holds the record as the oldest US president to be inaugurated, and some have noticed signs of aging. Observers have pointed out that he has occasionally appeared to doze off during meetings and sometimes struggles to hear questions. The Wall Street Journal noted that Trump seemed “irritated” by ongoing public discussions surrounding his health. “Let’s talk about health again for the 25th time,” he said during an impromptu call to the newspaper, ahead of the article’s publication. Trump revealed that he has been taking aspirin in doses higher than recommended for more than two decades, despite the fact that it sometimes causes him to bruise easily. “They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart,” he explained. The president takes 325mg of aspirin daily, significantly more than the 81mg dose often advised by doctors for cardiovascular health. “Doctors would rather have me take the smaller dose,” Trump said, “but after 25 years, I prefer to stick with what I know. I’m a little superstitious.” Regarding his recent medical imaging at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Trump emphasized that the procedure was a CT scan rather than the MRI he had mentioned previously. “It wasn’t an MRI,” he told the Journal. “It was less than that. It was a scan.” According to Navy Capt. Sean Barbaella, one of Trump’s doctors, the CT scan was performed to definitively rule out cardiovascular issues, and the results showed no abnormalities. In addition, after Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition commonly affecting older adults, he was advised to wear compression socks. However, he declined: “I didn’t like them,” he admitted. “Instead, I now get up from my desk more regularly, which has helped reduce swelling in my legs.” Trump also disclosed that he avoids formal exercise routines, aside from playing golf. “I just don’t like it. It’s boring,” he said. “Walking or running on a treadmill for hours is not for me.” He defended himself against accusations of dozing off during public meetings, claiming that closing his eyes occasionally is merely “relaxing.” “Sometimes they’ll catch a photo of me blinking, and they think I’m asleep,” he said. Addressing visible bruising on his hands, Trump revealed that he now carries makeup to conceal marks quickly. “I have makeup that’s easy to apply, takes about 10 seconds,” he noted. Trump insisted that he does not experience hearing problems, contrary to some reports suggesting otherwise. Barbaella reinforced the president’s health status in a statement to the Journal, emphasizing that Trump remains in “exceptional health and perfectly suited to execute his duties as Commander in Chief.”
