Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has once again affirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declaring that the support he and his political allies gave during difficult times will not change now that the political climate is more favorable. Wike explained that during the 2023 presidential election, openly backing Tinubu in Rivers State was neither popular nor safe for many politicians. According to him, the political environment at the time discouraged public endorsement, as uncertainty surrounded the outcome of the election. Despite these risks, Wike said his political camp made a deliberate decision to stand firmly with Tinubu when many others chose silence. He emphasized that true political commitment is proven during challenging moments, not after victory has already been secured. In his words, standing by Tinubu when the situation was tough was a conscious choice, and that loyalty would continue now that the pressure has reduced. Wike made these remarks on Saturday in Ochigba, located in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, while addressing members and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a stakeholders’ meeting. The FCT Minister was also present at an end-of-year thanksgiving service organized by a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, which took place in his hometown. During his address, Wike encouraged his supporters not to be intimidated or disheartened by political pressure, assuring them that their sacrifices and loyalty would not go unrewarded. He pointed out that individuals who genuinely supported Tinubu before the election are widely recognized, unlike those who only became vocal after the president’s victory was confirmed. Reflecting on the uncertainty of the 2023 election period, Wike stated that many politicians were hesitant to openly align themselves with Tinubu because no one could predict the final outcome. However, he stressed that politics requires courage and decisiveness, even when public opinion is divided. According to Wike, the decision taken by his camp yielded positive results, as their backing played a role in improving Tinubu’s electoral performance in Rivers State. He criticized those who now publicly proclaim loyalty to Tinubu, noting that they remained quiet when open support mattered the most. He questioned whether such individuals would be making those declarations today if others had not taken the risk earlier. The minister also reaffirmed his belief in honoring political commitments, stating that agreements must be respected once they are made. Wike warned against making promises that cannot be fulfilled, stressing that integrity and consistency are essential in political engagements. He said once an agreement is reached, it must be implemented without hesitation. Looking ahead, Wike disclosed that full political activities would resume in the coming year and made it clear that his stance would remain the same. He concluded by reassuring his supporters that the decision to continue backing Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firm, adding that there is no division or uncertainty about the position his political camp has taken.
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has expressed strong confidence that the 2027 general election will be far easier for him compared to his previous political contests. The governor stated that he has no fear concerning the 2027 polls, explaining that the visible progress recorded by his administration since assuming office has positioned him for a smoother electoral journey ahead. Governor Otti made this known while addressing attendees at the 2025 Aro Day celebration, which took place in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State. During his speech, he emphasized that he would not rely on campaign promises to convince the people but would instead depend on the tangible developments and results that residents can already observe across the state. According to him, the performance of his government speaks louder than words, making it unnecessary to make fresh assurances ahead of the next election cycle. The Abia State governor also expressed concern over the increasing political tension surrounding the 2027 elections, noting that many individuals are already becoming anxious despite the fact that the polls are still some distance away. He pointed out that worrying excessively about an election that is yet to come is unnecessary, stressing that his current focus remains on fulfilling the mandate given to him by the people. “The 2027 election is still far ahead, but some people have already started putting themselves under pressure even before the year arrives,” he said. Governor Otti further explained that his administration is not distracted by future elections, as there is still a responsibility to complete the four-year mandate entrusted to him by Abia residents. “We are not troubled about 2027 because our priority is to deliver on our mandate within four years. We have already spent about 30 months in office, and there is still more work to be done,” he added. While reflecting on his previous electoral experience, the governor stated that the upcoming election would be much easier than the 2023 polls. He explained that during the 2023 campaign period, his team relied heavily on promises and plans, but the situation has now changed. “Just as it happened in 2023, the 2027 election will be even smoother. I am confident because back then, we were presenting promises, but today, there are concrete achievements that we can clearly point to,” Otti concluded.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government’s ongoing restructuring and strengthening of the country’s security framework will soon deliver tangible outcomes capable of rebuilding public trust and confidence. The President gave this assurance on Friday during an official engagement with a delegation from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh. The meeting took place at Tinubu’s private residence in Lagos. This development was made public through an official statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. According to the President, his administration remains firmly dedicated to comprehensive reforms within the security sector. These reforms include long-term strategies such as the introduction of state policing and community-based security systems aimed at addressing emerging and complex security threats across different parts of the country. President Tinubu acknowledged that while the general atmosphere across the nation remains calm, vast ungoverned spaces continue to pose serious security challenges. He emphasized that these concerns are being actively confronted by the government. “The overall mood of the nation is peaceful. However, the size of our ungoverned spaces remains a serious concern. The challenge is real, but it is one we will overcome,” the President stated. He further appealed to religious leaders across the country to actively support government initiatives by encouraging cooperation, vigilance, and sustained prayers. Tinubu noted that certain security strategies require patience, time, and collective national support before yielding visible results. “We are a deeply religious people. We are prayer warriors. What we need now is your focus, vigilance, and cooperation,” he added. The President also clarified that the establishment of state and community policing structures would be fully implemented once the National Assembly concludes the necessary legislative processes required to give the initiative legal backing. Addressing public concerns about delays in military operations, Tinubu explained that the procurement of advanced military equipment often takes time due to high costs and limited global availability. These delays, he said, sometimes influence public perception of the government’s security efforts. He disclosed that Nigeria has placed orders for four attack helicopters from the United States as part of efforts to enhance the operational capacity of the armed forces. In addition, the government is also engaging Turkey to provide further military support. Despite the evolving guerrilla-style tactics employed by bandits and insurgent groups, the President reaffirmed that his administration remains determined and focused on restoring peace and stability across the country. On the issue of the recent abduction and subsequent release of schoolchildren in Niger and Kebbi States, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain alert and vigilant, stressing that collective awareness plays a crucial role in preventing security breaches.
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Renowned Islamic cleric and retired military officer, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has stated that Nigerians must come to terms with the presence of Fulani herdsmen across the country and learn how to coexist peacefully with them. Speaking in a video shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sheikh Gumi emphasized that Fulani herdsmen are an integral part of Nigeria and cannot be forced out of the country. According to him, their presence is permanent, just like that of other ethnic groups residing within the nation’s borders. The cleric explained that attempting to push the herders away would be unrealistic, stressing that no group has the authority to expel another from the country. He noted that Fulani herdsmen are neighbours to many communities and should not be labeled as enemies under any circumstance. Sheikh Gumi warned that turning Fulani herdsmen into adversaries could have severe consequences for national unity and security. He stated that such hostility could open the door for external forces to exploit internal divisions, leading to greater instability within Nigeria. Drawing from his military background, the retired army officer pointed out that neighbours often possess deep knowledge about one another. According to him, people living close to each other understand daily routines, movements, and vulnerabilities, making hostility between neighbours dangerous. He explained that enemies often take advantage of internal conflicts by using familiar faces against a nation. In his view, herdsmen, being familiar with many communities, could easily be manipulated by real enemies if pushed into opposition. Sheikh Gumi reiterated that Fulani herdsmen are inseparable from the Nigerian identity and must be accepted as fellow citizens. He encouraged Nigerians to prioritize dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding rather than allowing fear or anger to fuel division. According to him, peaceful coexistence remains the only sustainable solution, as hostility between neighbours could ultimately threaten the stability and future of the country. “They are not going anywhere. They belong to this country just as we all do. We must learn to live together peacefully and avoid seeing them as enemies. If you turn your neighbour into an enemy, your real enemy will use that neighbour against you. No one understands your movements better than those living close to you. That is why herdsmen should never be treated as enemies,” Sheikh Gumi stated.
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Kaduna State’s rising profile as a preferred destination for investment in Nigeria has been linked directly to the infrastructural expansion and land administration reforms implemented under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani. This position was explained by the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Fakai, during a media briefing held on Friday. According to her, the state’s recent performance shows that Kaduna is firmly on course to emerge as Nigeria’s leading state in the Ease of Doing Business ranking in the next assessment cycle. She recalled that Kaduna State secured the second position nationwide in the most recent Subnational Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) ranking conducted by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). This ranking evaluates how friendly states are to business operations across Nigeria. Mrs. Fakai noted that the achievement marks a significant improvement from the state’s earlier position. In the 2023 assessment, Kaduna placed eighth with an Ease of Doing Business score of 6.18. However, the latest PEBEC evaluation has elevated the state to second place nationally, recording a 65.1 percent performance score measured across 16 key indicators. Explaining the progress, the Commissioner attributed the outcome to Governor Uba Sani’s reform-driven governance approach. She described his leadership as intentional and focused on encouraging private-sector participation, which has strengthened Kaduna’s competitiveness within Nigeria’s investment landscape. She further disclosed that the PEBEC assessment covered critical areas such as physical infrastructure, digital access, tax systems, and land administration processes. According to her, measurable year-on-year improvements in these sectors have driven Kaduna’s rapid climb in the rankings. Mrs. Fakai stated that Kaduna’s advancement to second position in 2025 reflects consistent performance gains. She expressed confidence that the state would attain the top position by 2027, citing the governor’s ongoing development initiatives and reform footprint across multiple sectors. The Commissioner also highlighted the restructuring of the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA), describing it as a key intervention aimed at removing administrative barriers that previously slowed down investment inflows. She explained that KADIPA now operates as a one-stop investment center designed to simplify procedures for investors. According to her, the state government has worked to minimize bureaucratic delays, improve business registration timelines, and enhance licensing efficiency. In addition, Kaduna has expanded the use of digital platforms to handle approvals and business-related services, reducing physical contact and processing time. Mrs. Fakai added that KADIPA has strengthened its investor aftercare framework by offering continuous support, coordinating engagement with relevant government agencies, and ensuring smoother execution of approved projects. She concluded that the combined impact of these reforms has positioned Kaduna State as the second-best performing subnational entity in Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business ranking and the leading state in Northern Nigeria.
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The recent political movement involving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and his globally recognised Afrobeats relative David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has sparked a wave of internal unrest within the Accord Party, reigniting unresolved disputes over national leadership control. Governor Adeleke officially moved into the Accord Party on December 10, immediately securing the party’s governorship ticket for Osun State. Days later, Davido publicly confirmed his alignment with the same party, a development that quickly drew national attention due to his massive influence across youth and entertainment circles. However, instead of strengthening unity, their entrance has widened existing cracks. Multiple groups within the Accord Party have now surfaced, each asserting authority over the party’s national structure. At the centre of the SEO-driven political storm is a growing disagreement over whether Adeleke’s entry and candidacy complied with the party’s constitutional guidelines. The situation escalated following comments from Chris Imumolen, the party’s presidential flag bearer during the 2023 general election, who insists he remains the legitimate National Chairman of the Accord Party. According to Imumolen, Adeleke’s defection failed to follow established internal procedures, rendering his candidacy questionable. In reaction, Rev. Isaac Adeniyi, a former Board of Trustees member who now identifies as the party’s National Coordinator, rejected Imumolen’s claims outright. Adeniyi criticised the statements, describing them as irresponsible, and clarified that Imumolen’s remarks do not reflect the party’s official position. Adding another layer to the confusion, a review of records on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) platform shows Maxwell Mgbudem listed as the current National Chairman of the Accord Party, contradicting Imumolen’s position. Speaking during an interview with Saturday MSINT MEDIA, Imumolen stood firm, alleging that rival groups were receiving support from compromised elements within INEC. He argued that those currently listed were initially appointed as interim caretakers and should not be recognised as substantive leaders. Imumolen further claimed that Adeleke’s entrance occurred through unofficial channels, stating that the party already had an existing governorship candidate in Osun State before Adeleke’s arrival. He warned that this procedural gap could be exploited in court by opposing parties. Despite his reservations about the governor’s move, Imumolen welcomed Davido’s decision to align with the party, describing it as a strategic advantage due to the singer’s public appeal and visibility. He concluded by cautioning that even if Adeleke wins the election, unresolved legal and structural issues within the party could threaten the validity of such victory.
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The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed strong confidence that banditry and insurgency in Nigeria will be brought under control in 2026 and the years ahead. He encouraged Nigerians to remain optimistic, united, and committed to sustaining peace across the country despite prevailing security challenges. Akpabio gave this assurance during a special prayer and fasting service held in honour of the Akpabio family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, located in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. While addressing worshippers at the event, the Senate President stressed that national growth and development cannot thrive without peace and unity. He called on Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, and political differences and collectively work toward building a safer and more equitable nation. According to him, the coming year signals renewed hope for the country. He assured citizens that efforts aimed at restoring security are ongoing and will yield positive outcomes. “I wish all Nigerians a prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to reassure everyone that the new year will usher in renewed peace across the nation,” Akpabio stated. Speaking further on Nigeria’s security situation, Akpabio reiterated his belief that the nation would overcome banditry, insurgency, and other criminal threats. He urged Nigerians from all political backgrounds to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility. He noted that strengthened cooperation with international partners remains a key strategy in confronting criminal activities threatening Nigeria’s stability, adding that collaborative security frameworks would further enhance national safety. Reflecting on the spiritual significance of Christmas, Akpabio explained that the birth of Jesus Christ represents redemption, renewal, and hope for humanity. He likened this symbolism to Nigeria’s current struggle with insecurity, expressing belief that the nation would also experience redemption. “God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son to redeem mankind. By that same reason, Nigerians will experience redemption from banditry and insurgency in the new year and beyond,” he said. The Senate President also highlighted the importance of family unity, explaining that peace within families directly contributes to harmony and development at both community and national levels. In her remarks, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, called on members of the Akpabio family to remain supportive of one another. She encouraged them to embrace love, unity, and selflessness while setting aside personal differences for the collective good. Also speaking at the gathering, Chief Ekan Akpabio, head of the Greater Akpabio Family, appealed to family members to continue standing behind Senator Akpabio. He described him as a worthy representative of the family, Essien Udim Local Government Area, and Akwa Ibom State. Chief Akpabio further advised relatives occupying political offices to stay connected to their roots, urging them to consistently prioritize the welfare of their communities and extended family members.
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A well-known security analyst, Zagazola Makama, has stated that the recent air operations carried out by the United States military in Sokoto State did not hit the intended target and had no operational effect on insurgent groups operating in Nigeria. The comment followed reports that U.S. forces launched airstrikes on Christmas night, allegedly aimed at terrorist elements within Sokoto State. The development triggered fear and confusion among residents, particularly after footage circulated online showing intense reactions from locals. In one widely shared video, members of the Jabo community, located in Tambuwal Local Government Area, were seen fleeing in panic after an aerial strike reportedly landed close to farmlands within the community. Flames were visible at the impact point, further heightening tension among residents in the area. As of the time of reporting, official details surrounding the operation remain unclear, and there have been no confirmed casualties linked to the airstrike. Authorities are yet to release a comprehensive briefing explaining the specific intelligence behind the action. Reacting to the incident via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Makama explained that the strike location does not align with known operational zones of extremist groups threatening Nigeria. According to him, the bombs fell on agricultural land, an area with no recorded insurgent presence. He clarified that Jabo is primarily a farming settlement under Tambuwal LGA and has never been identified as a base or corridor for ISIS, ISWAP, or Boko Haram activities. Makama emphasized that intelligence records do not link the community to extremist movements operating either in the North West or North East regions of the country. While acknowledging the importance of international support, the security expert noted that accurate targeting is crucial to avoid unnecessary fear among civilians. He stressed that extremist groups such as ISWAP, Boko Haram, and ISIS are predominantly active in North East Nigeria, not in the affected Sokoto community. Makama further explained that even JNIM, also referred to as Lakurawa, does not maintain any established base within the North West region. He added that the affected area is overwhelmingly Muslim, accounting for roughly 98 percent of the population, and does not pose any threat linked to religious violence or genocide narratives. According to him, the security challenges in that region are largely connected to banditry, which has primarily affected Muslim communities, rather than coordinated terrorist insurgency operations. Despite describing the strike as misdirected, Makama concluded by stating that continued international military pressure on terrorist groups remains a positive development, as it sends a strong signal to armed groups threatening national stability. However, he reiterated that precision and credible intelligence must guide such interventions to prevent civilian distress
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Former United States President Donald Trump has announced that American military forces carried out several lethal air operations against Islamic State (IS) militants operating in parts of northwestern Nigeria. According to Trump, the strikes were executed on Christmas Day and resulted in the elimination of numerous terrorist fighters. Speaking publicly, Trump stated that the attacks were carried out after repeated warnings to extremist groups accused of targeting Christian communities in the region. He described the militants in harsh terms and stressed that further military responses would follow if violence against civilians continues. Although no operational details such as locations or casualty figures were disclosed, Trump said the missions were conducted flawlessly by U.S. forces. He emphasized that the action was a direct response to continued killings allegedly carried out by Islamic State affiliates in Nigeria. In a message shared on his Truth Social account, Trump reiterated that previous warnings had been issued to the militant group. He claimed those warnings were ignored, prompting decisive military action. He also praised the U.S. armed forces for what he described as their effectiveness and readiness. Meanwhile, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed that a targeted strike took place following a formal request from Nigerian authorities. According to AFRICOM, the operation resulted in the deaths of several ISIS fighters, reinforcing cooperation between the two countries on counterterrorism efforts. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also commented on the operation, expressing appreciation for Nigeria’s collaboration and support. He highlighted the preparedness of the Department of Defense to respond swiftly to security threats in the region when called upon. This development represents the first known U.S. military strike within Nigeria during Trump’s leadership period. It follows earlier remarks made by Trump in late October and November, when he criticized Nigeria’s handling of security challenges and described the situation facing Christians as severe and alarming. Those earlier comments sparked mixed reactions. Some observers welcomed increased international attention to insecurity in Nigeria, while others warned that emphasizing religious divisions could worsen tensions in a country with a complex mix of ethnic and faith-based dynamics. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has experienced various forms of violence, including insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes. However, Nigerian government officials and several independent security analysts have consistently pushed back against portraying the conflict strictly as religious persecution. They argue that the violence is driven by multiple factors, including criminal activity, economic pressures, and local power struggles. The Nigerian government has also rejected the use of the term “genocide” to describe the situation, maintaining that security forces are addressing threats affecting citizens of all backgrounds, regardless of religious affiliation.
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Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has given strong assurance that the transition of power at the end of his second term in 2027 will be calm, orderly, and free from political tension. The governor stated that his administration is focused on ending its tenure on a positive note and handing over leadership without disputes or resentment. According to him, the goal is to establish a new standard for leadership transition in the state. Governor Abiodun made this declaration on Thursday while speaking during a Christmas service held at St. James’ Anglican Church in Iperu-Remo, located in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State. As the state moves closer to the 2027 general elections, the governor expressed confidence that his government will complete its tenure successfully and responsibly. He emphasized that the administration is determined to finish strong and transfer authority seamlessly to the next elected leader. According to Abiodun, Ogun State is set to witness what he described as a historic moment, noting that the state has never experienced a fully peaceful transition in its 50-year history. He added that, by God’s grace, he hopes to be present both at his send-forth ceremony and at the inauguration of his successor. The governor attributed his confidence to what he called effective leadership, sustained economic progress, and development projects that directly impact residents. He explained that the state’s economy has expanded significantly since he assumed office. He revealed that Ogun State’s economic size has grown almost fivefold compared to what his administration inherited. He also highlighted that the state’s budget increased from approximately ₦355 billion to over ₦2.7 trillion, reflecting growth in revenue and investment. Additionally, he noted that new factories and industries continue to emerge across different parts of the state. Governor Abiodun further outlined several achievements recorded under his leadership, including the rehabilitation of more than 2,000 public schools, creation of employment opportunities, empowerment of farmers, and the widening of economic prospects for residents. He stressed that the administration’s work is ongoing and appealed for prayers from citizens to enable the government to conclude its tenure successfully and responsibly. Reaffirming his dedication to public service, Abiodun stated that he remains committed to using his office to serve the people faithfully while also honoring God in his leadership decisions. Among the major legacy projects mentioned by the governor are the Gateway International Airport and various infrastructure developments spread across Ogun State’s three senatorial districts. The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising his leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that the country is experiencing gradual stability, pointing to improved access to petroleum products, reduced pressure on inflation, and a more stable foreign exchange environment. Speaking on the significance of Christmas, Governor Abiodun reminded residents that the season goes beyond celebrations and social activities. He emphasized that Christmas represents love, peace, compassion, and care for others, particularly the less privileged in society. He explained that while many associate Christmas with shopping and entertainment, its true meaning lies in selfless giving and love for one another. He encouraged people to emulate God’s example by giving meaningfully and supporting those in need. The governor also advised residents to live Christ-like lives during the festive period, urging moderation in celebrations and discouraging excessive alcohol consumption. During the church service, the Vicar, Venerable Tolulope Akinwande, delivered a sermon titled “Christmas Is God’s Best Gift to You.” He described Christmas as the season when God gave Himself to humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ. According to the cleric, the purpose of Christ’s coming can only be achieved when individuals accept Him, noting that Jesus was born to redeem mankind from sin. He also commended Governor Abiodun’s leadership and prayed that the remaining years of his administration would surpass its early achievements.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially acknowledged that the United States carried out targeted military air operations against terrorist elements operating in the North-West region of the country. This confirmation was made through a statement released by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which emphasized that the action was part of an ongoing, structured security partnership between Nigeria and the United States. According to the government, the operation was the result of deep intelligence cooperation and strategic military coordination between both nations. The Ministry explained that the air strikes were carefully executed and aimed specifically at known terrorist hideouts within the affected region. Authorities described the strikes as highly precise, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating criminal networks that have continued to destabilize communities. The government reiterated that Nigeria will no longer tolerate the presence of violent extremist groups in any part of the country. It stressed that terrorism in all its forms directly contradicts Nigeria’s national values and undermines peace, unity, and security. In the official statement, the Ministry highlighted that collaboration with the United States has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s counter-terrorism capabilities. This partnership includes intelligence sharing, strategic planning, and operational support, all conducted in line with international law and with respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The statement further clarified that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts prioritize the protection of civilian lives, preservation of national unity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnic background. Acts of terror directed at any group—whether Christian, Muslim, or others—were described as an attack on Nigeria’s core values and a threat to global peace and security. The Federal Government also reaffirmed its determination to continue working with international partners through established diplomatic and security channels. These efforts aim to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt their funding and logistical operations, prevent cross-border threats, and strengthen Nigeria’s domestic security and intelligence institutions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured Nigerians that it would maintain active engagement with relevant global partners and keep the public informed through official communication platforms. Earlier on Thursday night, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced that American forces had successfully carried out what he described as deadly military strikes against terrorist targets in Nigeria’s North-West region. The United States Department of Defense later corroborated the announcement, indicating that the targeted groups had ignored prior warnings to cease violent attacks, including the killing of innocent Christians and the forced displacement of communities from their homes. The US defense authorities also issued a stern warning that additional military actions could follow if terrorist activities persist
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Abia State has officially entered a new phase in its electricity governance following the transfer of regulatory authority from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA). The development confirms ASERA as the legally recognized body responsible for overseeing electricity-related operations within Abia State, marking a significant shift from federal to state-level regulation of the power sector. The announcement was made on Wednesday at the Abia State Government House in Umuahia by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ASERA, Mr. Emeka Onyegbule. According to him, the transition of regulatory powers will formally take effect on December 24, 2025, when ASERA fully assumes statutory responsibility over the state’s electricity market. Constitutional Backing for State Electricity Regulation Mr. Onyegbule explained that the handover aligns with constitutional reforms carried out in 2023, which expanded the powers of Nigerian states to independently manage electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their territories. The constitutional amendment laid the legal groundwork for decentralizing electricity governance and allowing states to establish their own electricity markets. As a result, states were permitted to create regulatory agencies to manage electricity activities without depending entirely on federal oversight. Following the amendment and the emergence of state electricity markets across the country, NERC issued an interim regulatory order granting states approval to proceed with the creation and operation of electricity regulatory bodies. ASERA Becomes Sole Electricity Regulator in Abia With the federal approval now in place, ASERA has become the primary authority responsible for regulating electricity activities in Abia State. Mr. Onyegbule clarified that ASERA’s mandate now replaces that of NERC within the state’s jurisdiction. He stated that the responsibility to supervise, regulate, and manage the Abia electricity market now rests entirely with ASERA, effectively ending NERC’s direct regulatory role in the state. This means that all electricity-related operations — including power generation, transmission, distribution, and energy trading — are now subject to ASERA’s direct oversight and regulatory framework. Consumer Complaints and Disputes Now Handled by ASERA The ASERA Chairman further disclosed that all consumer-related issues, including disputes between electricity consumers and distribution companies, will no longer be escalated to NERC. Instead, ASERA will now handle complaints, conflict resolution, enforcement actions, and compliance monitoring involving electricity providers and customers operating within Abia State. This localized regulatory approach is expected to improve response time, enhance accountability, and ensure that electricity service providers comply with state-specific regulations. Electricity Act of 2025 Strengthens Power Sector Reforms Also speaking on the development, the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, attributed the successful transition to the enactment of the Abia State Electricity Act of 2025. According to him, the legislation provided the legal and institutional framework necessary to drive reforms and support growth in the electricity sub-sector. The law empowered ASERA to function independently and exercise regulatory authority across the entire electricity value chain in the state. Metering and Billing Licenses to Encourage Private Investment Prince Kanu also noted that ASERA has been granted the authority to issue licenses for electricity metering and billing operations. This move is designed to attract private sector participation in meter deployment and reduce long-standing challenges related to estimated billing. By encouraging private investment in metering infrastructure, the state aims to improve transparency, enhance revenue collection, and deliver fair billing practices for electricity consumers across Abia State.
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Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has strongly denounced the suicide bombing that targeted a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, the state capital. The deadly incident resulted in the loss of five lives, while thirty-five other worshippers sustained various degrees of injuries. The explosion reportedly took place on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, a time when Muslim faithful had gathered to observe one of the day’s obligatory prayers. According to details made public by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, a suspected suicide bomber gained access to the mosque and detonated an explosive device inside the place of worship. Reacting to the tragic development, Governor Zulum expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and the trauma suffered by survivors of the attack. He described the assault as an unacceptable act of violence, stressing that targeting worship centres represents a direct attack on humanity and shared values. “I am profoundly saddened by the suicide bombing at the Gamboru mosque, which happened while worshippers were engaged in Maghrib prayers. This senseless act led to the death of five individuals and left 35 others injured,” the governor stated. Governor Zulum further emphasized that places of worship are sacred environments, meant for peace, reflection, and spiritual devotion. He noted that attacking such locations not only undermines public safety but also violates the sanctity of religious faith and communal harmony. Describing the bombing as barbaric and inhumane, the governor maintained that no ideology or grievance can justify violence against innocent civilians, especially those engaged in religious observance. The Borno State governor extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack. He also offered prayers for the quick recovery of the injured victims, many of whom are currently receiving medical attention. In addition, Governor Zulum called on residents to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements. He stressed the importance of heightened security surveillance, particularly around places of worship, markets, and other public gathering points, especially during the ongoing festive period. The governor reassured citizens that the Borno State Government, working closely with security operatives, has intensified efforts and implemented proactive strategies aimed at preventing further attacks and maintaining public safety across the state.
