Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has appealed to residents of the state to consciously preserve and defend the strong bond of unity that binds them together, irrespective of ethnic background, religious affiliation, or political inclination. In his Christmas goodwill message delivered through his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, the governor congratulated Christians across Borno State for witnessing another Christmas celebration. He expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and extended warm seasonal wishes to families marking the festive period. Governor Zulum, who is presently undertaking a four-day security and resilience-focused tour across parts of northern Borno, has been engaging directly with military formations to encourage troops on the frontlines. The visit also includes interactions with communities that have been affected by insurgency, with the aim of restoring confidence, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt at the grassroots. Reflecting on the past year, the governor noted that Borno State has recorded notable improvements not only in physical infrastructure but also in social harmony, peaceful coexistence, and mutual understanding between Muslim and Christian communities. According to him, these gains have been achieved despite the long-standing disruptions caused by the Boko Haram insurgency. Zulum further recalled his recent engagements with the leadership of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). He explained that the consultations were geared toward deepening collaboration between the state government and religious institutions as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity and promote sustainable peace across the state. Emphasizing the importance of shared humanity, the governor described unity as the true strength of Borno’s diverse population. He noted that families in the state often consist of relatives from different religious backgrounds who live together, eat together, celebrate together, and mourn together, without allowing faith differences to divide them. According to Zulum, this deep-rooted social connection is a sacred bond that must be preserved within households and extended into communities. He urged residents to resist narratives that promote division and instead embrace values of tolerance, mutual respect, and collective responsibility. The governor called on all citizens, regardless of religious belief, to remain united in the collective pursuit of lasting peace, improved security, and harmonious coexistence. He stressed that these values are essential pillars for meaningful reconstruction, long-term recovery, and sustainable prosperity in Borno State.
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a time to strengthen peace, love, and national unity, while also calling on citizens of other religious backgrounds to take part in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Senator Akpabio made this appeal in his Christmas goodwill message addressed to Nigerians, with special emphasis on Christians marking the festive season. The message was officially conveyed through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh. In his message, the Senate President described Christmas as a season that should be defined by compassion, generosity, kindness, and mutual understanding among citizens. He stressed that the celebration goes beyond festivities and should reflect positive values capable of strengthening social harmony across the nation. Akpabio further encouraged Nigerians to remember the less privileged during the season by extending support and assistance wherever possible. According to him, caring for the vulnerable remains one of the strongest expressions of the true meaning of Christmas. He noted that the life and teachings of Jesus Christ serve as a powerful model of peace, love, sacrifice, and selflessness, virtues that Nigerians should strive to uphold in their daily interactions with one another. Speaking on behalf of his family, constituents, the Senate, and the entire 10th National Assembly, Akpabio expressed heartfelt joy and goodwill to Christians across the country as they commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. He described the occasion as one that should inspire unity and shared responsibility among Nigerians. The Senate President also extended an invitation to Nigerians of other religious beliefs, encouraging them to join Christians in celebrating the season. He emphasized the importance of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect, urging citizens to look beyond differences and embrace one another as brothers and sisters. Akpabio further called on Nigerians not to allow present challenges facing the nation to weaken their hope or determination. He emphasized that resilience, cooperation, and unity remain critical elements for achieving lasting national development and progress. He concluded his message with prayers for peace, unity, and sustained growth in Nigeria. The Senate President expressed confidence in the nation’s current trajectory and reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria is moving in the right direction under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He encouraged citizens to continue supporting the government in its efforts to build a better future for the country.
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Israel has issued a strong warning over what it described as an alleged and ongoing genocide targeting Christians in Nigeria, insisting that the violence must be brought to an end without further delay. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly expressed deep concern over continuous attacks on Christian communities in different parts of Nigeria, calling attention to what many international observers now see as a humanitarian and religious crisis. His statement comes amid rising global scrutiny over the safety of Christian faithful in Africa’s most populous nation. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the subject of alleged genocide against Christians in Nigeria has sparked intense debate across international platforms, with religious freedom advocates, policymakers, and human rights organizations weighing in on the issue. The discussions have centered on recurring reports of killings, kidnappings, and displacement of Christian populations, particularly in volatile regions of the country. In the United States, several lawmakers have openly supported claims that Christians in Nigeria are being persecuted solely because of their faith in Jesus Christ. These concerns gained more prominence under the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who echoed the position of these lawmakers and raised alarms over religious intolerance and violence. Despite firm denials and counterarguments from Nigerian government officials, the Trump administration went ahead to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC). This classification is reserved for nations accused of severe violations of religious freedom. The designation reportedly came with warnings of possible international actions, including strong diplomatic and security responses, aimed at halting the alleged killings of Christians. Further intensifying international attention, a United States congressional delegation recently visited Nigeria to assess the situation firsthand. The delegation’s mission was to investigate reported attacks on Christian communities, with particular focus on the Middle Belt region, an area that has experienced repeated conflicts involving armed groups, religious tensions, and communal violence. The visit underscored growing international pressure on Nigerian authorities to address insecurity and protect vulnerable religious groups. As global voices continue to demand accountability, the situation remains a sensitive and closely monitored issue within international diplomatic and human rights circles.
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Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has publicly expressed strong support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a vital step toward resolving Nigeria’s persistent security challenges. The governor made this position known on Tuesday during the graduation ceremony of 2,000 operatives of the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps, an event held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. According to him, Nigeria’s growing security concerns require solutions that go beyond conventional approaches. Governor Yusuf emphasized that lasting peace and social stability can only be achieved when effective security frameworks are combined with employment generation and economic empowerment. He noted that young people who remain unemployed and disengaged are more vulnerable to criminal activities, making job creation an essential component of crime prevention. In his remarks, the governor explained that introducing state-controlled policing would significantly strengthen existing security agencies and improve coordination in addressing security threats nationwide. He stressed that state police would not replace federal security institutions but would instead complement their efforts. Speaking on the significance of the newly trained personnel, Yusuf stated that the graduation of the 2,000 young men and women represents more than just a security initiative. He explained that the programme has removed thousands of youths from the streets and integrated them into meaningful public service. According to him, the graduates are now actively contributing to community safety while also building sustainable careers, earning legitimate incomes, and serving as positive examples for younger generations. He described the initiative as a practical demonstration of how security and employment policies can work together. Governor Yusuf further highlighted that decentralising policing structures would allow individual states to respond more effectively to security issues. He noted that local authorities possess better knowledge of their environments, cultural dynamics, and specific security challenges, which enables faster and more targeted responses. He added that insecurity in Nigeria requires collective responsibility and innovative thinking, stressing that a properly structured and well-regulated state police system would strengthen grassroots security while supporting federal law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order. The governor confirmed that the 2,000 Neighbourhood Watch Corps operatives will be deployed across all 44 local government areas of Kano State, where they are expected to work closely with other security agencies to enhance public safety
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Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has approved the immediate dismissal of four aides linked to an alleged physical attack on a serving councillor within the state. The action was taken after investigations into the reported assault involving Abdulrahman Abubakar Sheriff, the elected councillor representing Shamaki Ward in Gombe Local Government Area, were concluded. According to an official statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the directive for the removal was conveyed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi. This followed the submission of a detailed report by a special investigative committee established by the Gombe State Government. The statement revealed that the committee’s findings were supported by intelligence and reports obtained from relevant security agencies operating within the state. These verified inputs reportedly influenced the governor’s decision to act swiftly on the matter. The aides affected by the dismissal include Adamu Abdullahi Danko, who served as Senior Special Assistant II (Domestic); Garba Mohammed Mai Rago, Senior Special Assistant II (Political); Rabiu Sulaiman Abubakar, Senior Special Assistant II (Social Media); and Ali Ibrahim Baban Kaya, Senior Special Assistant II (Community Relations). Governor Yahaya ordered that the termination of their appointments should take immediate effect. He further instructed that all government properties and official materials currently in their possession must be returned promptly to the appropriate state authorities. Misilli noted that the governor used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward violence, misconduct, and abuse of official position. He stressed that any individual found engaging in actions that undermine public trust or peace would face decisive consequences, regardless of status or affiliation. The governor reiterated that maintaining discipline, accountability, and respect for the rule of law remains central to his government’s commitment to good governance in Gombe State.
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Former Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, has given a detailed explanation on why former President Goodluck Jonathan was never summoned or interrogated in connection with the controversial $2.1 billion arms procurement deal. According to Magu, investigations carried out by the EFCC revealed that the funds linked to the arms deal were not formally approved for political campaign activities. He explained that documents, internal memos, and official records examined during the investigation did not show any authorization by the former president permitting the money to be used for campaign purposes. Magu clarified that the EFCC’s decision was based strictly on documentary evidence reviewed by investigators. These documents, he noted, played a crucial role in determining responsibility and guiding the commission’s actions throughout the probe. This disclosure was made public through a book titled From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, authored by Dr. Charles Omole. The book was officially launched at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, attracting notable political figures and stakeholders. The publication offers an extensive account of the life and leadership journey of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. It covers his early military career, transition into democratic politics, and his tenure as Nigeria’s civilian president. In the book, Omole highlighted that the management of the arms procurement funds created significant tension within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the time. According to the narrative, the controversy led to heightened internal disagreements and suspicion among party leaders. As investigations progressed, several prominent figures within the PDP were reportedly invited by anti-corruption agencies to respond to allegations concerning the diversion of public funds linked to the arms deal. These developments, the author noted, deepened divisions within the party and intensified public scrutiny of government financial practices during that period. The account presented in the book reinforces Magu’s position that investigative decisions were guided by available records and approvals, rather than political considerations or assumptions.
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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) have urged the Federal Government to immediately suspend the enforcement of Nigeria’s newly introduced Tax Reform Acts. Their call follows allegations that the laws were modified after they had already been approved by the National Assembly. The concern was raised amid growing public debate surrounding the integrity of the legislative process. According to the NBA, the alleged post-passage alterations pose a serious threat to the credibility of lawmaking in the country and could undermine constitutional principles. Speaking through an official statement released on Tuesday, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), emphasized that the controversy surrounding the tax legislation has far-reaching implications. He warned that any uncertainty regarding how laws are enacted could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions. Osigwe stressed that transparency and accountability must remain central to Nigeria’s legislative framework. He explained that citizens must be assured that laws passed by elected representatives reflect exactly what was debated, approved, and transmitted for implementation, without undisclosed changes. The NBA President called on the relevant authorities to institute a thorough and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the passage of the Tax Reform Acts. According to him, such an investigation is necessary to determine whether the laws currently presented for implementation are identical to the versions approved by lawmakers. He further stated that until all concerns are properly examined and resolved, the Federal Government should halt every step toward implementing the tax reforms. This, he noted, is essential for restoring trust in the legislative process and safeguarding constitutional order. “The Nigerian Bar Association believes it is crucial that a full, open, and transparent investigation be carried out to explain the issues surrounding the enactment of these laws and to rebuild public confidence in the legislative system. Until these matters are completely reviewed and addressed, the implementation of the Tax Reform Acts should be suspended without delay,” Osigwe stated. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also aligned with this position, reinforcing calls for caution and due process. His stance reflects broader concerns among stakeholders who believe that adherence to constitutional procedures is fundamental to democratic governance and economic policy credibility. As discussions continue, the issue has drawn national attention, with legal experts, policymakers, and civil society groups closely monitoring the government’s response to the allegations.
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A well-known political strategist and Group Chief Executive Officer of Global Investment and Trade Company, Baba Yusuf, has stated that a significant number of Nigerians who venture into politics do so primarily for personal survival and economic benefits, often referred to as “stomach infrastructure.” Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a programme aired on Arise Television, Baba Yusuf explained that many politicians enter the political space not out of ideological commitment or public service, but with the intention of securing personal comfort and access to state resource. According to him, this mindset explains why politicians frequently defect to the ruling party. He noted that rather than building influence gradually or contributing meaningfully within their original political platforms, many politicians prefer to align themselves with the party in power to make political and financial gains easier. Baba Yusuf pointed out that the current wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) mirrors what happened years ago when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) controlled the federal government. He stressed that this pattern is not new in Nigerian politics but a recurring trend shaped by the political character and behavior of many office seekers. He further remarked that although supporters of the PDP may find the observation uncomfortable, the party appears to be losing relevance when viewed against Nigeria’s present political realities. He attributed this decline to long-standing political habits where loyalty is often determined by access to power rather than principles. The political analyst emphasized that historical records clearly show similar movements in the past. During the PDP’s dominance, particularly at a comparable point in time, the party also commanded the allegiance of more than 20 state governors. This dominance, he said, encouraged mass political realignments similar to what is currently being witnessed. Baba Yusuf concluded by reiterating that these repeated shifts highlight a deeper issue within Nigeria’s political system one rooted in the disposition of politicians who prioritize personal benefit over ideology, consistency, or long-term national development.
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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the appointment of Temitope George as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC), a strategic move aimed at deepening regulatory oversight and sustaining ongoing reforms within the state’s electricity sector. The development was officially communicated through a circular issued on Tuesday by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, who clarified that the appointment is subject to confirmation by the Lagos State House of Assembly. According to the circular, the governor has granted approval, while the formal assumption of office will take effect after the required legislative endorsement. This appointment marks an important step in Lagos State’s continuous effort to strengthen institutional capacity and regulatory effectiveness in the power industry. It aligns with the state government’s broader agenda to consolidate recent electricity market reforms and establish a more transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly power sector. Temitope George is currently the Lead Partner for Energy, Infrastructure, and Policy at Adegbola-George & Co, where she has played a key role in advising on complex energy and infrastructure matters. She brings over two decades of professional experience, cutting across legal practice, regulatory frameworks, and public sector governance. Her extensive background positions her to provide strategic leadership at LASERC, especially at a time when Lagos State is redefining its electricity market structure following decentralisation reforms. The appointment is expected to contribute to improved regulatory coordination, policy implementation, and stakeholder confidence within the state’s power ecosystem
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The United States government has introduced a seasonal voluntary departure initiative aimed at undocumented immigrants residing in the country, offering financial and travel incentives in exchange for leaving the U.S. before the end of the year. Under this newly announced Christmas self-deportation programme, undocumented individuals are being encouraged to return to their countries of origin by accepting government-sponsored flight tickets alongside a cash payment of $3,000. The offer is time-sensitive and applies only to those who choose to participate before the stated deadline. The policy was officially disclosed in a statement released on Monday, December 22, by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In the announcement, DHS emphasized that the programme is designed to provide undocumented immigrants with a voluntary option to exit the country safely, while also reducing the need for enforcement actions. According to the department, undocumented immigrants who decide not to take advantage of the offer could face severe legal consequences. These include possible arrest, mandatory removal from the United States, and a permanent ban that would prevent them from legally re-entering the country in the future. DHS further explained that individuals who successfully register for the programme on or before December 31 will qualify for fully paid travel arrangements back to their home nations. In addition to transportation support, participants will also receive a $3,000 financial allowance, intended to assist with relocation and reintegration upon arrival. The department warned that immigration enforcement efforts will continue for those who decline the offer, stressing that voluntary participation is the safest option available under the current policy framework. Officials stated that ignoring the programme may expose undocumented residents to long-term immigration penalties that could affect their future mobility and legal status indefinitely. The announcement has drawn attention due to its timing during the Christmas season and its emphasis on voluntary compliance rather than immediate enforcement. However, DHS maintained that the incentive programme does not change existing immigration laws, but instead provides an alternative pathway for undocumented immigrants to leave the country without facing harsher outcomes.
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The former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has once again reaffirmed his long-standing position regarding the events that occurred during the EndSARS protest on October 20, 2020, particularly at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State. According to Lai Mohammed, no individual was killed at the Lekki Toll Gate on the night of the protest, despite widespread claims and public debates that followed the incident. He maintained that all investigations and official findings available to the government did not establish any record of fatalities at that specific location. While emphasizing this stance, the former minister acknowledged that the EndSARS protests were not without tragic consequences nationwide. He admitted that several Nigerians lost their lives during the period, including security personnel such as soldiers and police officers, as the demonstrations spread across different parts of the country. Lai Mohammed explained that the protests, which began as a peaceful movement against police brutality, later degenerated in some areas into violent confrontations. These clashes, he noted, resulted in the deaths of security operatives who were deployed to maintain law and order during the unrest. Despite admitting these losses, Mohammed stressed a clear distinction between casualties recorded in various locations across Nigeria and the specific claims of deaths at the Lekki Toll Gate. He insisted that available evidence does not support reports alleging that protesters were killed at the toll gate on that night. The former minister’s statement aligns with his earlier public comments, where he consistently argued that misinformation and unverified reports played a significant role in shaping public perception of the Lekki incident. According to him, the government relied on official reports, forensic analysis, and security records to arrive at its conclusions. The EndSARS protest remains one of the most significant civic movements in Nigeria’s recent history, sparking national and international conversations about police reform, governance, and human rights. However, the debate surrounding the Lekki Toll Gate incident continues to generate strong reactions, with differing narratives persisting years after the protest. Lai Mohammed’s remarks serve as a reiteration of the federal government’s official position, emphasizing that while the EndSARS protests led to loss of lives—including those of security officers—no deaths were officially recorded at the Lekki Toll Gate on October 20, 2020.
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The Abia State Government has once again issued a strong advisory to residents, urging them to stay away from free medical outreaches that do not have official approval from the state authorities. This warning is part of ongoing efforts by the government to safeguard public health and prevent residents from falling victim to unsafe medical practices. According to the state government, several unregulated medical activities are being carried out across communities under the guise of free healthcare services. These activities, officials say, pose serious health risks, especially when conducted by individuals or groups without proper authorization, training, or medical certification. In addition to discouraging participation in unapproved medical outreaches, the government also cautioned citizens against seeking medical attention from unqualified practitioners, purchasing drugs from unauthorized vendors, or consuming food products that do not meet safety standards. These practices, the government noted, could expose residents to severe health complications. The warning was delivered by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing held at the Government House in Umuahia. The briefing followed the State Executive Council meeting, which was chaired by Governor Alex Otti. While addressing journalists, Kanu emphasized that the government remains deeply concerned about the growing circulation of fake drugs and substandard consumables within the state. He explained that such products could cause long-term damage to public health if residents are not vigilant. The Commissioner further advised the public to exercise caution during the festive season, stressing the importance of responsible eating and drinking habits. He also encouraged residents to maintain proper hygiene practices, especially during celebrations, to reduce the risk of preventable illnesses. The Abia State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of its citizens and urged the public to always verify the authenticity of medical services before participating in them.
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Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the alleged modifications made to the newly introduced tax laws, describing the situation as a direct betrayal of Nigerians. According to reports gathered by LMSINT MEDIA, public reactions have intensified following claims that the tax bills approved by the National Assembly differ significantly from the version later published officially by the Presidency. These alleged inconsistencies have raised serious concerns across political and civic spaces. The former Vice President argued that altering laws after legislative approval represents a dangerous precedent. He described the situation as a clear violation of constitutional order, insisting that it threatens Nigeria’s democratic structure by weakening the authority of elected lawmakers. In a public statement released on Tuesday, Atiku expressed deep displeasure over what he termed unlawful and unauthorized changes to the tax legislation. He characterized the action as a grave offense against the Nigerian people, emphasizing that such conduct undermines the very foundations of democratic governance. Atiku further stated that the alleged actions of the executive arm amount to an excessive and oppressive interference in the legislative process. He warned that such interference contradicts the principle that lawmaking authority rests primarily with the legislature, as provided by the Nigerian Constitution. He maintained that the controversy surrounding the tax laws exposes what he sees as a government approach focused more on revenue extraction than on economic empowerment. According to him, Nigerians are already facing economic hardship, and policies that deepen financial pressure on citizens could worsen public suffering rather than promote prosperity. In his remarks, Atiku drew attention to specific elements that were allegedly added to the tax bills after they had already been debated and passed by lawmakers. He stressed that these insertions were not subjected to parliamentary scrutiny, making them unconstitutional. The former Vice President cited Sections 4 and 58 of the 1999 Constitution, which clearly outline the legislative powers of the National Assembly and the procedures for lawmaking. He argued that any post-approval alteration violates these provisions and raises serious legal and democratic concerns. Atiku concluded by warning that allowing such practices to continue could erode public trust in governance and weaken Nigeria’s democratic institutions, calling for transparency and strict adherence to constitutional processes.
