FG Designates All Armed Groups as Terrorist Organisations
The Federal Government on Monday declared all armed groups operating across the country as terrorist organisations, warning that any group involved in kidnapping, attacks or intimidation of communities would be treated accordingly. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the declaration at a press conference in Abuja, stressing that such groups would no longer be regarded as ordinary criminals.
Niger Government Receives Remaining Abducted Pupils, Teachers
The remaining 130 abducted pupils and teachers of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, have been handed over to the Niger State Government. Governor Umaru Mohammed, who spoke after the handover, said issues surrounding earlier conflicting figures would be clarified by the school authorities and the Catholic Church, describing the development as a major relief ahead of Christmas.
Edo Assembly Panels Recommend State Takeover of MOWAA, Radisson Blu
Ad-hoc committees of the Edo State House of Assembly investigating the funding and ownership of the Museum of West African Art and the Radisson Blu Hotel have recommended that Governor Monday Okpebholo take possession of the investments. The recommendation was contained in a report submitted to the House.
INEC Fixes February 21, 2026, for Rivers By-elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled February 21, 2026, for by-elections into the Ahoada II and Khana II State Constituencies of Rivers State. The commission disclosed this in a statement on Monday by its Chairman of Information, Voter Education and Publicity Committee, Malam Mohammed Haruna.
US Suspends Visa Issuance to Nigerians from January 2026
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced the suspension of visa issuance to Nigerians with effect from January 1, 2026. The decision follows a US Department of State directive on a partial visa suspension affecting nationals of 19 countries, including Nigeria, Angola, Cuba and Venezuela.
Gunmen Abduct 28 Travellers in Plateau Community
Gunmen have abducted 28 travellers in Zak community, Bashar district of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. A youth leader in the area, Sapi’i Sambo, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, saying the victims included men, women and children.
Nigeria’s Petrol Supply Rises by 55% in November – NMDPRA
The supply of Premium Motor Spirit increased to 71.5 million litres per day in November 2025 from 46 million litres in October, representing a 55 per cent rise. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority said the volumes were sourced from both domestic production and imports.
Naira Appreciates at Parallel Market, Weakens at Official Window
The naira appreciated to N1,476 per dollar at the parallel market on Monday, up from N1,487 recorded last week. However, the currency depreciated slightly at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market, closing at N1,466.5 per dollar.
FG Declares Christmas, New Year Public Holidays
The Federal Government has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, as well as January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations. The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the government.
Trailer Crash Kills Nine in Gombe
At least nine persons were killed and five others injured when a speeding trailer rammed into a bus on the Kaltungo–Cham Road in Kaluwa community, Gombe State. The Federal Road Safety Corps confirmed that the accident occurred at about 8:33 a.m. on Monday.
ADC Faults Tinubu’s 2026 Budget Proposal
The African Democratic Congress has criticised the 2026 budget proposal presented by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as unrealistic and a potential debt trap. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party warned the National Assembly against approving what it termed fiscal recklessness.
FG Mandates Drug Tests for Civil Service Job Applicants
The Federal Government has introduced compulsory pre-employment drug testing for all public service job applicants. A circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation directed MDAs to partner with the NDLEA, citing rising drug abuse and its impact on productivity and national security.
Kidnappers Now Classified as Terrorists – FG
The Federal Government has reiterated that kidnappers and armed criminal groups are now officially classified as terrorists. Information Minister Mohammed Idris said improved security collaboration and the deployment of forest guards would strengthen efforts to dismantle criminal networks.
New Tax Laws Delay Will Hurt Workers – Oyedele
Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has warned that delaying the implementation of new tax laws beyond January 1, 2026, would leave most workers overtaxed. He said the reforms would ease multiple taxation and reduce pressure on low-income earners.
Aisha Buhari Says Late President Was Vulnerable to Manipulation
Former First Lady Aisha Buhari has revealed that her late husband, Muhammadu Buhari, was vulnerable to manipulation by extended family members and old friends. She made the disclosure in a biography chronicling the former president’s life and legacy.
Police Release Actress Doris Ogala
The Nigeria Police Force has released Nollywood actress Doris Ogala after she was rearrested and transferred from Abuja to Lagos. Sources said her release was secured following intervention at the Zone 2 Command.
Actor Mike Folarin Decries Unsolicited Fan Advances
Nollywood actor Mike Folarin has recounted being kissed without consent by a fan during a club outing in Lagos. He urged fans to respect personal boundaries, stressing that consent remains essential.
AFCON 2025: Tanzania Coach Warns Against Super Eagles Threat
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has warned that his side must be near perfect to stand a chance against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at AFCON 2025. He described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most dangerous attacking teams.
Tax Rules May Favour Jake Paul Over Anthony Joshua
Despite losing to Anthony Joshua in Miami, Jake Paul is expected to earn more from the bout due to tax considerations. Reports indicate that multiple layers of US and UK taxation will significantly reduce Joshua’s net earnings from the fight.