US withdraws majority of troops from Lake Chad counterterrorism mission
The United States has withdrawn most of its military personnel deployed for a joint counterterrorism operation in Nigeria’s Lake Chad Basin. The development was disclosed by General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, Commander of US Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, during a briefing on the African Chiefs of Defence Conference 2026. While details of the withdrawal were not fully outlined, the move signals a major shift in America’s military footprint in the region, where multinational forces have battled insurgent groups for years.
Adeyemi claims life under threat amid fake council controversy
Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, accused of forging government appointment documents and falsely presenting himself as Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council and Presidential Economic Advisory Council, has claimed his life is in danger. Speaking from an undisclosed location, Adeyemi denied wrongdoing and accused the government of trying to silence him. The Presidency has maintained that the councils do not exist under the Tinubu administration and described his claims as false.
One attacker killed as gunmen target NIPSS in Plateau
Security operatives have foiled an attempted attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State. One suspected assailant was killed during a gun battle, while others fled into nearby bushes. Troops recovered an AK-47 rifle and ammunition from the scene. Authorities said security around the strategic institution has been strengthened following the incident.
Court affirms David Mark as ADC national chairman
A Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld the leadership of the African Democratic Congress under former Senate President David Mark. The court dismissed a suit filed by House of Representatives member Leke Abejide challenging Mark’s emergence as national chairman. Justice Musa Liman ruled that the case lacked merit and affirmed that the leadership transition complied with the party’s constitution and relevant electoral laws.
Kaduna court rejects El-Rufai’s fresh bail request
A Kaduna State High Court has dismissed a new bail application filed by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The application was supported by a medical report claiming he was suffering from advanced metastatic prostate cancer. However, the National Hospital, Abuja, disowned the report, prompting Justice Darius Khobo to reject the request. The court held that the evidence presented could not support the application.
Amaechi, Tambuwal hold closed-door political meeting
ADC vice-presidential candidate Rotimi Amaechi met privately with former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal in Abuja on Thursday. Although details of the discussions were not disclosed, the meeting comes amid intensified political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections. Both politicians remain influential figures within Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
Atiku appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as spokesperson
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson for the 2027 presidential campaign. Okonkwo announced the appointment on his official X account, expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him. The move is seen as part of preparations for Atiku’s bid under the African Democratic Congress platform.
Another 271 Nigerians return from South Africa
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that 271 more Nigerians affected by xenophobic protests in South Africa will arrive in Lagos as part of an ongoing evacuation exercise. According to the ministry, the latest group brings the government closer to completing the voluntary repatriation programme for affected citizens who registered to return home.
Traditional priest dies after setting himself ablaze in Ogun
Residents of Adebiopon Village in Ogun State were left in shock after a 50-year-old traditional priest, Muritala Shodiya, allegedly set himself on fire. Reports indicate that Shodiya poured petrol on himself inside an unfinished building before igniting the flames. The motive behind the incident remains unclear as authorities continue investigations.
Court awards ₦200m damages against police over killing
The Federal High Court in Abuja has awarded ₦200 million in damages against the Nigeria Police Force over the unlawful killing of Mallam Kabiru Babai. Justice Peter Lifu ruled that the applicant successfully proved the case through affidavit evidence. The suit was filed on behalf of the Muslim Community of Gwarimpa Estate, Abuja.
FG denies approving Adire as NYSC uniform replacement
The Federal Government has clarified that it has not approved Adire or Ankara fabrics as replacements for the NYSC khaki uniform. Youth Development Minister Ayodele Olawande said his earlier comments were misinterpreted, explaining that several options are still being reviewed. He stressed that no final decision has been taken regarding any redesign of the corps uniform.
Security agencies summon suspects over terrorism financing claims
Security agencies have invited six individuals and three companies recently designated by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee over alleged terrorism financing. The action follows intelligence reports and financial investigations conducted by the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit. Authorities have also ordered the freezing of assets linked to the suspects pending further investigations.
APC unveils Oyo governorship candidate for 2027
The All Progressives Congress has officially unveiled Sharafadeen Ali as its governorship candidate and Adesoji Adedeji as deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 Oyo State election. The presentation took place in Ibadan and followed the submission of their names to INEC. Party leaders described the move as a major step in preparations for the election.
ICPC secures court order to detain former minister Nnaji
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has obtained a court warrant to detain former Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, for 14 days. The anti-graft agency is investigating allegations of certificate forgery. Nnaji was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and subsequently transferred to ICPC custody for interrogation.
Halima Abubakar announces conversion to Christianity
Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has revealed that she has embraced Christianity after recovering from a prolonged illness. The actress said she battled health challenges for nine years before experiencing what she described as divine healing. She stated that the experience transformed her life and inspired her decision to dedicate herself to serving Jesus Christ.
Toyin Abraham says husband trusts her acting career
Popular actress Toyin Abraham has said her husband has no issues with her performing romantic scenes in movies. Speaking during a television interview, Abraham said trust remains strong in their marriage and that acting is strictly professional. She added that kissing scenes are part of the job and do not affect her relationship.
UEFA rejects automatic red cards for players covering mouths
UEFA has confirmed it will not adopt a rule that automatically sends off players for covering their mouths while speaking during matches. The decision means the regulation will not be used in the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League. The rule had been approved by IFAB as an optional measure for competition organisers.
Manchester City sign Elliot Anderson in £116m British record deal
Manchester City have completed the signing of midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a British record £116 million. The transfer makes the 23-year-old England international the most expensive British player in history, surpassing Jude Bellingham’s previous record move. Anderson is expected to complete final formalities after England’s World Cup campaign concludes.
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