Trump Announces U.S. Strikes on ISIS in Nigeria
President Donald Trump said Thursday that U.S. forces carried out “numerous perfect strikes” against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day. He warned that more action would follow if attacks on Christians continued. The president did not provide details of the operations but referred to the targets as “Scum.”
Abducted Kontagora Schoolchildren Reunited With Families
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the rescue and safe return of all pupils and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Schools, Papiri, in Niger State. Rev. Bulus Yohanna announced the development in a statement on Thursday. He said those freed were reunited with their families after coordinated efforts by authorities.
FG Deploys More Security After Maiduguri Attack — Shettima
Vice-President Kashim Shettima says additional tactical security teams have been deployed to Maiduguri after a bomb attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market on Wednesday. He said five people lost their lives and others were injured. Shettima condemned the incident and vowed that those behind the attack would be tracked down.
NiMet Forecasts Sunshine, Cloudiness Nationwide
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted a mix of sunny and cloudy conditions across the country from Friday to Sunday. In its outlook issued Thursday in Abuja, NiMet said the northern region would remain sunny throughout the forecast period.
FRSC Confirms 11 Dead, 12 Injured in Jigawa Road Crash
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Thursday confirmed that 11 people died and 12 others were injured in a lone crash along Ringim-Sankara-Beguwa road in Jigawa State. Acting Unit Commander Ado Adamu told journalists that emergency teams responded immediately.
Six Zamfara Lawmakers Defect to APC
Six members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. The lawmakers announced their move in Gusau, citing disregard for constitutional provisions and erosion of legislative independence.
Fuel Tanker Explosion Kills Two in Lagos
At least two people died after a 33,000-litre petrol tanker exploded along the Badagry Expressway in Lagos early Christmas morning. The incident occurred around 4 a.m. near the Oto-Ijanikin area. Emergency responders were deployed to contain the situation.
Benue Police Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Victim
Benue Police Command says it averted a kidnap attempt on Christmas Day and rescued one Geoffrey Akume. Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet said the incident occurred near Tiortu on the Gboko/Makurdi Road. He added that investigations are ongoing.
Abiodun Promises Smooth 2027 Transition in Ogun
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured residents of a peaceful and smooth transition at the end of his second term in 2027. Speaking during a Christmas service in Iperu-Remo, he pledged to set a high governance standard for future administrations.
Tinubu Reaffirms Protection of Religious Freedom at Christmas
President Bola Tinubu says his administration remains committed to safeguarding all religions in an atmosphere of harmony. In a Christmas message, he said ongoing engagements with faith leaders aim to prevent conflict and support national unity.
Presidency Denies Gbajabiamila’s Removal
The Presidency has dismissed online claims that Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila was replaced by Principal Private Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga called the report “a fabrication” and said both officials remain in their roles.
Army: Maiduguri Mosque Blast Caused by Suicide Attacker
The Nigerian Army says a suicide attacker was responsible for Wednesday’s explosion inside a mosque at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri. Operation Hadin Kai spokesperson Lt. Col. Sani Uba said the blast caused multiple injuries and authorities are providing medical attention to victims.
PDP Not Planning Caretaker Committee — Wabara
PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Adolphus Wabara has dismissed reports that the party plans to set up a caretaker committee. He said the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee remains valid and any contrary claims are “sponsored by impostors.”
Kontagora School Attack: All Victims Verified and Safe
The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora says 230 verified abductees from St. Mary’s Catholic Schools in Niger State have been rescued and reunited with families. Rev. Bulus Yohanna said combined security operations ensured the success and no one remains in captivity.
Tinubu Orders Security Clampdown After Maiduguri Blast
President Bola Tinubu has ordered intensified security operations across Borno State following Wednesday’s mosque explosion that killed five people. Vice-President Shettima said authorities are working with local stakeholders to prevent further attacks nationwide.
Bandits Are Products of Society — Bishop Kukah
Catholic Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah says terrorists and other violent offenders emerge from neglected communities. In his Christmas message, he urged society to invest in children’s welfare and resist the conditions that fuel insecurity.
Labour Party Urges Tinubu to Fight Corruption
The Labour Party faction led by Julius Abure has urged President Tinubu to confront corruption decisively. In a Christmas message, Abure said no government can endure if corruption continues unchecked and called for leadership anchored on integrity.
More PDP Defections Hit Zamfara Assembly
Six PDP lawmakers in the Zamfara House of Assembly have joined the APC, strengthening the ruling party’s majority. The defectors said their decision followed concerns over internal leadership issues.
Tunisia Confident Ahead of AFCON Match with Nigeria
Tunisia midfielder Mejbri Hannibal says his team is confident heading into their crucial AFCON Group C clash with Nigeria after a 3-1 win over Uganda. Both sides are tied on points at the top of the group and will seek to secure qualification.
Super Eagles’ Bassey Reflects on Career Challenges
Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has shared how difficult moments early in his football journey nearly made him quit. Now a Fulham player, he said Nigeria’s strong AFCON start reminds him of the privilege of representing his country at a high level.