Former Attorney General of the Federation and ex-Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and another co-defendant, are set to commence a legal battle for bail over an alleged ₦9 billion corruption case filed against them by the Federal Government. The bail hearing is scheduled to take place today, December 2, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the defendants are expected to be brought from custody to continue proceedings related to the case. Also standing trial alongside Malami and his son is Hajia Bashir Asabe, an employee of Ramadiya Property Limited, who is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre following a remand order. The trio remains in custody pending the court’s determination on their bail applications. The case is being handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who had earlier fixed today’s date to consider arguments on bail following the defendants’ arraignment on 16 counts of alleged money laundering offences. During their arraignment, Malami and the two other accused persons pleaded not guilty to all charges filed against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), acting on behalf of the Federal Government. At the earlier court session held on Tuesday, legal counsel to the defendants, Joseph Daudu, SAN, presented an oral application requesting bail for the accused persons. He argued that, having reviewed both the charges and relevant legal provisions, the defendants were entitled to bail under Nigerian law. According to Daudu, money laundering offences are not capital offences, and as such, do not require a written bail application. He maintained that written bail submissions are only mandatory in cases involving capital punishment. He further emphasized that the charges against his clients were straightforward, bailable, and that the defendants remained innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. Daudu therefore urged the court to exercise its discretion in favour of granting bail to the defendants, stressing that there were no compelling reasons to keep them in custody. However, the EFCC strongly opposed the oral bail request. Counsel to the commission, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, argued that the law requires specific considerations before bail can be granted. He referenced Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), which outlines factors a court must evaluate when deciding bail applications. Iheanacho submitted that such factors can only be properly placed before the court through affidavit evidence, insisting that both the prosecution and the defence must be allowed to present factual materials to support their positions. He added that these facts often relate to issues that may involve witnesses, making a written application necessary. In his ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite declined the oral bail request, agreeing with the prosecution that the court required formal documentation to properly exercise its discretion. The judge subsequently directed both parties to return to court today to argue written bail applications. The EFCC had earlier formally arraigned the former Attorney General and the other defendants before the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court on a 16-count charge bordering on money laundering, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched legal process.
Tension is steadily building within Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector following the commencement of the Federal Government’s tax reforms on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Freight forwarding professionals across the industry are expressing concern over how the new tax framework may affect operational costs, particularly as some shipping companies are already discussing possible upward adjustments in freight charges. Industry operators revealed that the atmosphere within the ports has become increasingly uncertain, as shipping lines begin internal consultations in anticipation of how the reforms may impact their financial obligations. According to practitioners, these early meetings signal that shipping companies are positioning themselves ahead of potential cost implications tied to the new tax regime. The Federal Government officially began implementing a sweeping restructuring of Nigeria’s tax system on January 1, 2026. The reform represents one of the most extensive fiscal changes introduced in decades and is designed to streamline tax administration, encourage economic expansion, widen the tax net, and reduce pressure on low-income earners. Authorities have described the initiative as a major step toward improving transparency and efficiency in revenue generation. This tax overhaul forms part of a larger fiscal strategy introduced by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, aimed at modernising the country’s taxation framework, strengthening revenue collection mechanisms, and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness within the global economy. Despite public debate and legislative concerns surrounding the documentation process, the government maintained the January 1, 2026 rollout date. Commenting on how the reforms are already influencing the maritime industry, the Head of the Shipping, Air and Terminal Logistics Department at the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, Mr. Ugochukwu Nnadi, disclosed that at least two shipping companies recently held meetings to evaluate the situation. According to him, these companies are proactively considering freight charge increases to avoid being unprepared once the tax changes fully take effect. He explained that shipping operators are making early plans to shield themselves from sudden financial pressure, even though the law is still in its initial phase of implementation. Nnadi noted that while the reforms are yet to be fully enforced, some shipping lines have already begun adjusting their strategies. He emphasized that no operator wants to be caught off guard, which explains the urgency behind these preparatory meetings. Similarly, the Apapa Chapter Chairman of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Mr. Abayomi Duyile, stated that the tax policy would inevitably influence daily port operations. He explained that clearing procedures involve numerous documented payments, including shipping charges, terminal fees, and related logistics costs. Duyile stressed that once these expenses become subject to additional taxation, the overall cost of doing business at the ports will rise, placing added pressure on freight forwarders and customs agents. He maintained that the cumulative effect of these charges would significantly affect their operations. Reacting strongly to reports of intended freight increases, Duyile opposed any immediate adjustment by shipping companies. He revealed that industry stakeholders have advised shipping lines to suspend any increase until the fourth week of January to allow for consultations with members and a broader industry dialogue. He warned that any unilateral increase in freight charges would be resisted, noting that shipping companies had already adjusted their rates in the previous year. According to him, further increments would worsen the situation at the ports and heighten existing tensions among operators. Duyile concluded that stakeholders are prepared to take collective action, including picketing, should shipping companies proceed with fare hikes without adequate consultation, describing the situation as one that could escalate if not properly managed.
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The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has stressed that the success of Nigeria’s newly enacted Tax Reform Act will depend largely on how transparently and effectively it is implemented. According to the Chamber, proper execution of the law is vital to easing compliance processes, lowering pressure on productive businesses, and expanding the country’s tax base without discouraging economic activity. The business advocacy group made this position known while reviewing Nigeria’s economic performance in 2025 and outlining expectations and priorities for 2026. In its assessment, the Chamber urged the Federal Government to ensure that the tax reforms are applied in a manner that supports growth rather than constrains enterprise development. Speaking on the matter, LCCI President, Leye Kupoluyi, explained that fiscal reform efforts gained significant traction following the signing of the Tax Reform Act in June 2025. The legislation harmonised several existing tax laws into a single, streamlined framework scheduled to come into force on 1 January 2026. Kupoluyi noted that the reform presents an opportunity to modernise Nigeria’s tax administration, but warned that poor implementation could undermine its benefits. He emphasised that clarity, openness, and fairness in enforcement are essential to encouraging voluntary compliance and maintaining investor confidence. The Chamber’s remarks came shortly after public concerns arose regarding the new tax regime, particularly fears that the government would automatically deduct taxes from personal bank accounts. These concerns were addressed by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, during a televised interview. Oyedele clarified that the revised tax system is based on self-assessment and declaration, not direct debits from bank accounts. He explained that individuals would not be charged automatically for funds transferred or received during the year. Instead, taxpayers are expected to declare their income at the end of the fiscal year in line with existing tax principles. Reflecting on the broader economic environment, the LCCI observed that Nigeria entered 2026 after navigating a challenging year characterised by difficult reforms, economic resilience, and cautious signs of stabilisation. While 2025 recorded modest growth, the Chamber noted that fiscal implementation remained constrained, alongside growing concerns over public debt sustainability. The group acknowledged that policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies, liberalisation of the foreign exchange market, and tight monetary conditions imposed substantial short-term hardship on households and businesses. However, it maintained that these measures were necessary steps toward restoring macroeconomic stability, rebuilding credibility, and improving Nigeria’s appeal to investors. In terms of economic performance, the LCCI reported that Gross Domestic Product growth improved slightly in 2025. Output expanded by 3.98 per cent in the third quarter, driven primarily by the services sector, which now contributes more than half of total economic output. The Chamber also highlighted Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list as a significant reputational milestone. This development improved the country’s access to international capital markets, evidenced by strong investor demand for Nigeria’s Eurobond issuance and favourable assessments from global rating agencies. Despite these positives, the LCCI cautioned that current growth levels remain inadequate to significantly raise living standards or reduce poverty. It pointed out that economic expansion continues to trail population growth, indicating that the benefits of recovery are not yet widely shared. Turning to fiscal performance, the Chamber criticised the execution of the 2025 federal budget, stating that it fell short of delivering the stimulus required to support recovery. By the third quarter of the year, government revenue reached ₦18.6 trillion, representing about 61 per cent of the target, while expenditure stood at ₦24.66 trillion, or roughly 60 per cent of the budgeted figure. Particular concern was raised over capital spending, which remained weak. Only ₦3.10 trillion, equivalent to 17.7 per cent, had been released for capital projects by the third quarter, limiting progress on infrastructure and dampening private sector confidence. On public finance, the LCCI described Nigeria’s debt profile as increasingly worrying. Total public debt rose to approximately ₦152.39 trillion by June 2025, with debt servicing consuming more than 65 per cent of government revenue. According to the Chamber, this level of debt servicing significantly restricts the government’s ability to invest in infrastructure, social services, and long-term growth initiatives. The group stressed that expanding revenue sources and exercising discipline in borrowing are no longer optional, but essential for fiscal sustainability. From a business perspective, the LCCI noted that companies continued to face multiple challenges throughout 2025. These included persistent inflationary pressures, exchange rate instability, insecurity in key agricultural regions, unreliable power supply, and the burden of multiple taxation across different levels of government. Looking ahead to 2026, the Chamber called for improved coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities to consolidate disinflation gains and gradually reduce interest rates. Such measures, it said, would help unlock private sector credit and stimulate investment. The LCCI also advocated for stronger confidence in the foreign exchange market, faster infrastructure development through public-private partnerships, and policies deliberately designed to promote inclusive economic growth. In conclusion, the Chamber described 2025 as a transition period from crisis management to cautious stability. It warned, however, that the central task for 2026 is to move beyond stabilisation and ensure that macroeconomic reforms translate into tangible improvements in productivity, employment, and overall prosperity.
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A member of the United States Congress, Riley Moore, has expressed deep concern over emerging reports suggesting renewed threats against Christian communities in Nigeria. His reaction follows claims attributed to a group believed to be affiliated with the Islamic State, which he described as clear evidence of religious persecution. The lawmaker made his position known through a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday night. In his message, Moore strongly argued that discussions surrounding the root causes of violent attacks on Christian populations in Nigeria should no longer be debated. According to Moore, statements reportedly issued by an Islamic State–linked faction confirm that the attacks are driven by religious motives rather than environmental, political, or economic factors. He emphasized that the ongoing violence should be recognized for what it is—targeted hostility against individuals because of their Christian faith. He stated that any lingering uncertainty regarding whether Christians in Nigeria are being attacked specifically for their belief in Jesus Christ should now be resolved. Moore dismissed alternative explanations that have previously been suggested, including disputes over land ownership or the effects of climate change. In his words, he insisted that such arguments only distract from what he believes is a straightforward issue of faith-based persecution. He described the situation as a direct assault on fellow Christians, stressing that the attacks are not incidental or circumstantial but intentional and rooted in religious intolerance. The Congressman’s remarks were made in response to posts that circulated earlier the same day on X. These posts alleged that the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had released an image depicting a Christian village in Adamawa State engulfed in flames. The image reportedly showed widespread destruction, further intensifying concerns about the safety of Christian communities in the region. Moore’s reaction has added to ongoing international discussions about insecurity in Nigeria and the experiences of religious minorities affected by insurgent violence. His comments suggest a call for greater recognition of the religious dimension of these attacks and increased attention from global leaders.
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In a New Year gesture aimed at justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the release and sentence reduction of 77 inmates currently serving various jail terms across correctional centres in the state. The decision, which took effect as part of the 2026 New Year celebrations, followed recommendations submitted by the Ondo State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. The council is chaired by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN. According to an official statement released by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the clemency exercise was carried out after a detailed assessment of eligible inmates. The governor emphasized that the initiative reflects his administration’s belief in second chances, especially for offenders who have demonstrated genuine remorse and positive behavioural changes while in custody. Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the New Year period presents an opportunity to promote mercy, forgiveness, and social reintegration. He added that individuals who have shown readiness to reform deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society. Speaking further on the process, Dr. Ajulo disclosed that each case was meticulously examined before final recommendations were made. He explained that 12 inmates, who displayed exceptional conduct and had already served substantial portions of their sentences, were granted outright freedom. In addition, 22 inmates previously sentenced to death had their punishments commuted to life imprisonment or definite jail terms. Other inmates serving life sentences benefited from reduced terms, with new sentence durations adjusted to 25, 20, 15, and 10 years, depending on individual assessments. Dr. Ajulo explained that the council’s recommendations were guided by multiple considerations. These included the nature of the offence, length of incarceration, behavioural record, age, health status, rehabilitation progress, and the likelihood of successful reintegration into society. Reports from correctional institutions and relevant legal authorities were also carefully reviewed. “In marking the January 1, 2026, New Year celebration, the Ondo State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy recommended a total of 77 inmates for executive mercy by Mr Governor,” Ajulo stated. He stressed that the exercise was not arbitrary but rooted in justice, compassion, and public interest, reaffirming the government’s commitment to humane correctional policies and the rule of law. The development has been widely viewed as a significant step toward prison reform, restorative justice, and reducing congestion in correctional facilities within Ondo State.
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Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has appealed to political leaders across the country to place the welfare of citizens at the core of governance as the nation steps into the year 2026. The former president made this appeal in his New Year message to Nigerians, which was issued through his Media Assistant, Wealth Dickson Ominabo. In the message, Jonathan emphasized that Nigeria’s progress depends largely on leadership that genuinely serves the people and puts their needs above personal or political interests. According to him, Nigeria is at a critical point where unity, accountability, and moral leadership must be strengthened, especially in the face of ongoing economic difficulties and security concerns affecting many parts of the country. Reflecting on the year that has just ended, Jonathan acknowledged that Nigerians went through significant challenges. He noted that rising economic pressures and continued insecurity placed heavy burdens on families and communities, testing the nation’s collective strength and endurance. He stated that the past year was marked by trials that brought hardship and loss to many households, yet Nigerians continued to press forward despite the circumstances. These experiences, he said, revealed the depth of resilience within the population. Despite these struggles, the former president praised Nigerians for standing firm during difficult times. He highlighted the courage, perseverance, and sense of unity displayed by citizens as one of Nigeria’s most valuable national assets. According to him, the ability of Nigerians to support one another during hardship reflects the country’s enduring strength. Looking ahead to the new year, Jonathan called on both leaders and citizens to renew their commitment to national values. He stressed that true patriotism should go beyond words and symbols, and instead be demonstrated through service, honesty, humility, and responsibility. He further explained that leadership at every level—whether political, social, or institutional—must be grounded in selfless service and a sincere dedication to improving the lives of the people. He noted that governance driven by integrity and compassion remains essential for national development. In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jonathan extended warm wishes to Nigerians for a calm and rewarding year ahead. He also offered prayers for continued national growth, urging collective efforts toward unity, justice, and shared prosperity across the country.
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The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has instructed his legal representatives to formally discontinue all ongoing court cases filed against Senator Natasha and several other individuals. The directive was made public by Akpabio during a New Year church service held at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he addressed members of the congregation. While speaking at the service, the Senate President disclosed that he had previously authorized the filing of close to nine separate legal suits against individuals he believed had made false and damaging statements about him. According to him, those cases were initiated in response to allegations he described as defamatory, misleading, and harmful to his reputation. Akpabio explained that his stance changed during the church service after listening attentively to the sermon delivered by the officiating priest. He stated that the message deeply resonated with him on a personal level. He recalled that as the sermon progressed, he felt a strong conviction that the message was directed specifically at him, prompting a moment of reflection. According to Akpabio, the sermon emphasized forgiveness and reconciliation, which led him to reassess his actions and intentions regarding the legal disputes. “I had instituted almost nine cases in court against people who defamed me, spread untrue statements about me, and damaged my name,” he said. “But while the priest was preaching, I suddenly realised that the message was meant for me.” He added that the spiritual experience influenced him to let go of the grievances and pursue peace instead of prolonged legal battles. Following this personal resolution, the Senate President announced that he had taken immediate steps to end all pending legal actions related to the matter. He stated clearly that his lawyers had been instructed to withdraw every lawsuit filed against Senator Natasha and the other individuals involved. By making this decision public during a religious gathering, Akpabio emphasized the role of faith and reflection in guiding his choice to forgive and move forward without further legal confrontation.
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Party structures and leadership organs of the Labour Party across different states are set to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the recent political move by the party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi. This development was disclosed by Gogo Wellington, Chairman of the Nenadi Usman-led faction of the Labour Party in Rivers State, who stated that the expected realignment would involve party organs nationwide joining Obi on the ADC platform. Wellington made this known after Peter Obi formally exited the Labour Party on Wednesday and declared for the ADC, a move that occurred in Enugu State and involved several prominent Labour Party figures from the South-East region. In a conversation with correspondent Ifunanya Obeme-Ndukwe, Wellington revealed that the Labour Party had long been engaged in coalition negotiations with opposition stakeholders, explaining that these discussions had now reached a conclusion. According to him, the outcome of the coalition talks directly influenced Obi’s decision to move to the ADC, describing the shift as a strategic step rather than a sudden political action. He explained that the Labour Party, as an organization, actively participated in the coalition process, which ultimately produced a clear direction for its principal political figure. Wellington stated that the completion of those negotiations paved the way for Peter Obi’s formal transition into the ADC, adding that similar decisions are anticipated from Labour Party structures at state levels. While he did not specify an exact date for the full realignment of party organs, Wellington assured that the process would be finalized within a relatively short timeframe. Responding to concerns raised by party supporters and observers regarding Obi’s decision to move to a different political platform, Wellington attributed the defection to unresolved internal challenges within the Labour Party. He emphasized that both Obi and his supporters remain focused on securing a credible and functional political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Rivers State Labour Party faction chairman expressed confidence in Obi’s capacity to emerge as the ADC’s presidential candidate. However, he noted that even if that outcome does not materialize, the central objective of Obi’s political movement remains the broader goal of addressing Nigeria’s current challenges. Wellington further disclosed that following Obi’s departure, his supporters no longer consider themselves politically invested in the Labour Party. He highlighted the persistent issues that have affected Obi’s political aspirations within the party, pointing out that internal disruptions have continued to hinder progress for over a year. According to Wellington, the presence of destabilizing forces within the Labour Party has significantly contributed to its ongoing internal crisis. He noted that Obi’s engagement with coalition partners from different political parties was viewed as a positive and necessary step by his supporters, who were actively seeking a viable political structure capable of supporting a credible electoral contest in 2027. Wellington concluded by stating that the Obedient Movement remains calm and focused, expressing belief in their collective strength to secure political opportunities where available. He added that regardless of the outcome of the ADC ticket process, the overriding priority for Obi and his supporters is national recovery. As a result, he stated that Obi’s supporters see no justification for remaining within the Labour Party following their leader’s move to the ADC.
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Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has officially withdrawn his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a significant political development within the state’s leadership structure. The governor communicated his decision through a formal letter dated 29 December 2025, which was addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Ampang West Ward in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. According to the letter, the resignation takes immediate effect. The ward leadership acknowledged receipt of the letter a day later, confirming the governor’s exit from the party under which he rose to political prominence. In the resignation letter, Governor Mutfwang expressed deep appreciation to the PDP for offering him the opportunity to actively participate in Nigeria’s democratic process. He recognized the role the party played in his political journey and acknowledged the collective support received from party officials and members across various levels. He further conveyed gratitude to PDP leaders, loyal members, and supporters who stood by him during his time in the party, stating that the confidence and trust reposed in him would always be remembered. Governor Mutfwang explained that his decision was influenced by the prevailing political realities of the moment. He emphasized that his commitment to purpose-driven leadership, clear political direction, and effective service delivery necessitated the pursuit of an alternative political platform. The letter concluded with assurances of respect and goodwill toward the party leadership, underscoring a formal and orderly disengagement from the PDP. Political observers have since indicated that Governor Mutfwang is expected to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This expectation follows a recent public disclosure by the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who announced at an event held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja that the Plateau State governor is set to join the ruling party. The development has continued to generate widespread attention, as it signals a notable shift within Plateau State’s political landscape
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ushered in the New Year with optimism, emphasizing that 2026 marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria. In his heartfelt message to Nigerians, he expressed gratitude, highlighted key accomplishments from 2025, and outlined the nation’s roadmap for prosperity, security, and development in the year ahead. A New Beginning for Nigeria In his 2026 New Year address, President Tinubu extended warm greetings to all Nigerians: “Fellow compatriots, I welcome you all to 2026 with gratitude to God and confidence in our collective resolve. This new year will bring greater prosperity for our nation, our citizens, and everyone who calls Nigeria home.” Reflecting on 2025, Tinubu noted that the administration maintained momentum on key reforms, achieving a fiscal reset and steady economic progress. Despite persistent global economic challenges, Nigeria recorded measurable gains across various sectors, affirming that the reforms underway are positioning the country for long-term growth. Economic Highlights of 2025 President Tinubu highlighted the following achievements from 2025: These milestones demonstrate that the reforms initiated by the government are yielding tangible benefits, particularly for ordinary Nigerians. 2026 Economic Roadmap As Nigeria enters 2026, President Tinubu outlined priorities aimed at consolidating gains and driving inclusive growth: Security and Peace: Pillars of Progress President Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national security, emphasizing that economic growth must go hand in hand with peace and stability. “Our nation remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of Nigeria,” the President assured citizens. A Call for Unity and National Responsibility President Tinubu highlighted that nation-building is a collective effort, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and integrity in their roles as citizens. He emphasized that sustainable economic development and security require active participation from all Nigerians. “We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honor and integrity in our respective roles. Let us resolve to be better citizens, neighbors, and stewards of our nation.” Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond President Tinubu’s vision for 2026 is clear: accelerate economic reforms, strengthen security, and enhance quality of life through strategic development programs. The year promises to: “May God continue to bless and protect our beloved country, safeguard our troops, and neutralize those threatening our national peace and security. Happy New Year to all Nigerians,” he concluded.
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The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has shed light on the recent wave of schoolchildren abductions in Nigeria, attributing the incidents to underlying political motives. Speaking during the “2025 in Retrospect: Charting a Pathway into 2026” programme on Channels Television, Alausa emphasized that these attacks were carefully orchestrated to destabilize the nation and embarrass the government. According to the Minister, “For more than 20 months, there were no reported abductions in any schools across the country. However, in the past few weeks, we’ve observed coordinated attacks with political undertones. These actions aim to undermine the government, but it is important to know that President Bola Tinubu strongly opposes politicizing such sensitive matters.” Recent reports from LMSINT MEDIA confirm a troubling increase in abductions targeting schoolchildren in several states. Notably, at least 24 female students were kidnapped from a Government Secondary School in Kebbi State, though authorities later reported their safe release. In a separate incident, more than 200 students were abducted from a Catholic private school in Niger State. Fortunately, about 50 of the children escaped, while the federal government announced that all remaining students have since been reunited with their families. Minister Alausa’s statement highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in ensuring the safety of its schoolchildren. The government continues to strengthen security measures, working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent future abductions and reassure parents of the safety of educational institutions nationwide. These incidents underscore the urgent need for continued vigilance, community cooperation, and proactive strategies to protect the country’s most vulnerable citizens—its children.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that a peace agreement intended to end the ongoing conflict with Russia is “90% ready,” during his New Year address, which largely highlighted Ukraine’s resilience in the face of Moscow’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky emphasized that the remaining 10% of negotiations will be decisive in shaping the future of Ukraine, peace in Europe, and regional stability. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin, addressing his troops in his own New Year message, reaffirmed confidence in his forces, stating, “We believe in you and our victory.” The diverging messages from both leaders underline the continued uncertainty surrounding the conflict and the fragile nature of diplomatic negotiations. Earlier the same day, Moscow released what it described as evidence of Ukraine allegedly using drones to target Putin’s private residence on Lake Valdai, located in north-west Russia. The footage included a map reportedly marking drone launch points in Ukraine’s Sumy and Chernihiv regions, along with a video showing a downed drone in a snow-covered woodland. A Russian serviceman claims the drone is a Ukrainian Chaklun model, though Kyiv has categorically denied any involvement in such operations. Independent verification of the footage has not been possible, and the exact location of the alleged drone incident remains unconfirmed. Following this, the Kremlin indicated that Russia might reassess its stance on the ongoing peace negotiations. Meanwhile, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized Moscow’s claims, describing them as a “deliberate distraction” intended to undermine the peace process. Kallas emphasized that efforts must remain focused on diplomatic solutions rather than escalating misinformation campaigns. This development highlights the delicate balance between military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and media narratives as Ukraine and Russia continue to navigate a conflict that has spanned nearly four years. Analysts stress that even minor setbacks or provocations could influence the final stages of the peace talks and shape the geopolitical future of Eastern Europe.
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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has announced impressive financial results for November 2025, recording total revenue of N4.36 trillion (₦4,358 billion) alongside a profit after tax of N502 billion. This growth is largely driven by a steady crude oil and condensate production of 1.60 million barrels per day (mmbopd), slightly surpassing October’s output of 1.58 mmbopd, despite ongoing maintenance activities at key production sites. According to the NNPC Monthly Report for November 2025, natural gas production averaged 6,968 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), maintaining a consistent performance relative to previous months. This stable output reflects NNPC’s strategic approach to balancing production with essential infrastructure maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency while preparing for future expansion. Crude Oil, Condensate, and Gas Sales Performance In November, crude oil and condensate production maintained an average of 1.60 mmbopd, while natural gas production stood at 6,968 mmscf/d. The statutory contributions to the Federation Account from January to October 2025 totaled N12.117 trillion, showcasing the company’s significant fiscal impact on the Nigerian economy. Sales figures for November indicate that crude oil and condensate volumes reached 19.98 million barrels, comprising 18.98 million barrels of crude oil and 1.00 million barrels of condensate. Meanwhile, gas sales averaged 4,650 mmscf/d, slightly lower than October’s 4,713 mmscf/d, reflecting seasonal demand fluctuations and scheduled maintenance across select facilities. Despite these achievements, premium motor spirit (PMS) availability at NNPC retail stations stood at 61%, highlighting that nearly four in ten outlets may have experienced limited petrol supply during the month. This shortfall underscores the continuing downstream supply challenges, even as the company advances infrastructure improvements and operational planning. Maintenance Activities Impact Production The report noted that November’s production performance was significantly influenced by planned maintenance activities across major upstream assets, including Esso-Erha, Stardeep-Agbami, and the Renaissance-Estuary Area. NNPC emphasized that production recovery is expected by the end of December 2025, with ongoing delays in the West African Gas Pipeline (WAEP) first oil schedule. The company is also finalizing the 2025 facilities turnaround maintenance (TAM) and implementing production initiatives across Joint Venture (JV), Production Sharing Contract (PSC), and Nigerian Petroleum Limited (NEPL) assets to meet the 2026 production target. In a statement, NNPC highlighted: “We are intensifying collaboration with our partners through year-end and into 2026 to ensure improved production performance, maximize infrastructure uptime, and maintain high facility maintenance standards across all our assets.” The report attributed the temporary moderation in output to scheduled maintenance at the Esso-Erha, Stardeep-Agbami, and Renaissance-Estuary Area fields, which is expected to result in a substantial boost in December 2025, paving the way for a robust production outlook in 2026. Strategic Infrastructure Projects Driving Growth NNPC is making significant progress on strategic infrastructure projects, including the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) River Niger crossing. These initiatives are critical to supporting future production growth, ensuring consistent gas supply, and enhancing the national energy grid. The company’s ongoing projects reflect a deliberate effort to improve operational efficiency, optimize resource management, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy infrastructure for long-term sustainability. NNPC Foundation Earns Prestigious Recognition In addition to operational achievements, the NNPC Foundation received remarkable accolades at the 19th Edition of the SERAS Sustainability Africa Awards 2025. The foundation secured five prestigious awards, including: These awards reinforce NNPC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, and community engagement across Nigeria and Africa.
