Author: Gabby

In a decisive counter-terrorism operation, Nigerian troops successfully thwarted an attempted assault on a military facility in Tungushe, Borno State, leading to the neutralization of numerous ISWAP fighters. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of May 22, saw soldiers from Operation Hadin Kai repel the attackers after a fierce firefight.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama shared details via his X handle, citing military sources. Following the failed attack, troops launched a clearance and exploitation mission around 6:00 a.m., recovering an array of weapons and supplies abandoned by the fleeing insurgents. Among the items seized were a mobile phone, three AK-47 magazines, two hand grenades, five PKT ammunition belts, a locally made grenade, spent cases of PKT and 7.62mm ammunition, head warmers, slippers, clothing, and fuel.

Based on blood trails, the intensity of the exchange, and intelligence assessments, military sources estimate that at least 15 terrorists were killed during the encounter. The troops’ morale remains high, with a continued commitment to sustaining operations across the region.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is ramping up efforts to tackle hypertension and other non-communicable diseases through a new initiative focused on reducing sodium intake and promoting healthier eating habits nationwide.

On May 19, 2026, the ministry conducted a courtesy and technical visit to the Kano State Ministry of Health to foster collaboration on adopting and executing the National Sodium Reduction Guidelines. The meeting saw participation from senior Kano State officials, including Health Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, as well as representatives from the federal ministry and development partners like Resolve to Save Lives.

Dr. Yusuf hailed the sodium reduction effort as a crucial step in combating hypertension and cardiovascular ailments that burden many Nigerians. He emphasized the appropriateness and urgency of this intervention for preventing and managing non-communicable diseases, and reaffirmed Kano State’s commitment to localizing the guidelines.

Mr. Femi Stephen, speaking on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted that state governments are essential to achieving the nation’s sodium reduction goals. He explained that the National Sodium Reduction Guidelines aim to cut sodium consumption by 30 percent by 2030 through a phased, multi-sectoral approach that includes public education, collaboration with the food industry, and policies promoting healthier options.

The ministry noted that excessive salt intake is a primary driver of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, making sodium reduction one of the most cost-effective public health strategies. It urged states to weave sodium reduction into primary healthcare, school meal programs, food safety systems, nutrition initiatives, and community awareness efforts.

Officials agreed to bolster collaboration by setting up state-level coordination mechanisms, strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, and advocating for healthier diets to reduce the impact of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.

Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the Chief of Naval Staff, delivered a powerful message during a special Juma’at service marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary. He asserted that without the divine grace and favor of God, the service’s achievements over the past seven decades would be unattainable.

Abbas reflected on the Navy’s journey, acknowledging that divine intervention has been a constant force through both peaceful times and periods of hardship, as well as moments of triumph and challenge. According to him, God’s strength has enabled the Navy to fulfill its constitutional duties effectively.

He emphasized that the Nigerian Navy has evolved into a formidable maritime force, playing a critical role in Nigeria’s national security and providing support to other African nations. Abbas highlighted the significance of the maritime environment, which supports key economic activities such as oil and gas extraction, international trade, and fisheries.

The Chief of Naval Staff credited the Navy’s personnel for their resilience and dedication, which have led to a notable reduction in maritime insecurity within the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s territorial waters. He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s development agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope initiative.

Abbas extended his gratitude to both serving and retired officers and ratings, praising their patriotism and sacrifices. He noted that their professionalism and loyalty have built a legacy of honor and excellence for future generations. He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who gave their lives in defense of the nation, urging that they be remembered with deep reverence.

He called on all personnel to use the 70th anniversary as inspiration to strive for greater professionalism, discipline, innovation, and selfless service. Abbas stressed that the responsibility of advancing the Navy rests on everyone, and they must remain steadfast in enhancing operational capabilities to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and contribute to national security and economic prosperity.

In conclusion, Abbas appealed to Nigerians to continually pray for the officers and ratings of the Navy, as well as all members of the Nigerian Armed Forces deployed in various operations within and beyond the country.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to finishing all ongoing development initiatives across the state, despite the prevailing political tensions. Speaking during an inspection of a 7.1-kilometer bypass road near the Port Harcourt International Airport on Friday, Fubara emphasized that the project remains a priority.

The bypass road, launched in December of the previous year alongside the airport road commissioning, aims to provide an alternative route for communities near the airport. Fubara explained that frequent protests by host communities, which often led to roadblocks over disputes with airport authorities, made the project essential. “We consistently faced situations where the community would block the airport road to express grievances against the airport management, causing significant disruptions to movement and economic activities,” the governor remarked.

Fubara noted that the bypass will separate community traffic from airport operations, ensuring smoother access for residents and uninterrupted travel to the airport. “Once completed, the community will have its own entrance, leaving the airport road exclusively for airport-related traffic,” he stated.

The governor disclosed that construction is approximately 65 percent complete, with contractors expected to finish the road before October. He assured residents that no project would be abandoned, regardless of the political climate. “We promise the people that every good work we have started, by God’s grace, we will continue and complete,” Fubara declared, reiterating his focus on delivering meaningful infrastructure for Rivers State.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Osun State has announced the deployment of 555 personnel for the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration. Corps Commander Sunday Tayo Adebayo, leading the Osun sector command, disclosed this initiative on Friday through a statement by the sector’s public education officer, Agnes Ogungbemi.

In addition to the staff, the FRSC will also mobilize three ambulances, two roadside clinics, one tow truck, and fifteen patrol vehicles to ensure safety during the festivities. This operation aligns with directives from FRSC headquarters for the Sallah period.

Commander Adebayo explained that the week-long operation will run from May 25 to May 31, 2026, involving both the sector command and its unit commands. He emphasized collaboration with other uniformed agencies to manage vehicular movement effectively.

“This season will be bustling with activities as we manage traffic flow throughout the festive period,” Adebayo stated. “Our week-long operations conclude on May 31, 2026. There is no better time than now to emphasize road safety.”

The FRSC boss highlighted the corps’ statutory role in clearing road obstructions and analyzing causes of road traffic crashes (RTCs). He noted that FRSC aims to mitigate risks and propose solutions to enhance road safety and the well-being of Nigerians.

All resources from the sector command and its units will be fully utilized across the state. Adebayo urged motorists to cooperate with FRSC personnel, obey traffic rules, and adhere to speed limits. “We cannot do it alone,” he said, calling on media partners to disseminate safety messages to homes, offices, and places of worship.

“Road safety is everybody’s business. We must unite to prevent needless loss of lives. Behind every road safety statistic lies a human being—a child, parent, colleague, or loved one. Route violations, wrongful overtaking, speeding, and overloading must cease,” he added.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of the alleged N8.7 billion money laundering case against former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, his wife Hajia Bashir Asabe, and his son Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami until June 23, 2026. The decision was made on Friday after the defense requested an adjournment, which the prosecution did not oppose, though they noted the prior delays caused by the defense.

The trio face a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including conspiracy, procurement fraud, concealment, and laundering of proceeds from unlawful activities totaling N8,713,923,759.49, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

During the session, prosecution counsel J.S. Okutepa (SAN) stated that the case was set for trial, but the defense had filed a letter seeking a postponement. While the prosecution did not object, Okutepa urged the court to consider the number of previous adjournments granted at the defense’s request.

In her ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik acknowledged that the lead defense counsel was absent but noted that other lawyers from the firm were present and could have proceeded. However, she granted the adjournment in the interest of fair hearing, emphasizing that the defense still had adjournment allowances remaining. The case is now scheduled to continue on June 23, 2026.

In a significant development for Ogun State’s public administration, Governor Dapo Abiodun has officially announced the appointment of Mr. Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka as the next Head of the Public Service. This decision comes following the mandatory retirement of the former Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya.

Before this elevation, Mr. Saka held the position of Permanent Secretary in the Bureau of Cabinet and Special Services. His career in the state’s civil service began on May 15, 1993, when he started as a classroom teacher at Grade Level 08. He later transitioned to the mainstream civil service in 2006, taking up the role of Senior Administrative Officer at Grade Level 09.

Born on February 15, 1968, Mr. Saka is widely recognized as a seasoned administrator with a strong background in policy coordination and implementation. His professional affiliations include membership in the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management, and he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Policy Management Development.

According to a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, the appointment is a testament to Mr. Saka’s diligence, unwavering commitment, and exemplary service to the Ogun State Public Service. The governor’s approval underscores a recognition of his hard work and dedication over the years.

In a harrowing incident on Thursday, Innocent Omudu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency in Benue State, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when heavily armed assailants targeted his motorcade. The attack unfolded as Omudu and his team were journeying back to Otukpo following the party’s primary election, where he was unanimously chosen as the consensus candidate and ADC flag bearer for the 2027 general elections.

According to reports, the gunmen unleashed a barrage of gunfire on the convoy along the Onyagede-Ugboju road, resulting in damage to several vehicles and injuries to multiple individuals. Despite the intense shooting, Omudu confirmed that no fatalities occurred among his team, though some members sustained varying degrees of injuries. He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost, describing the ordeal as a terrifying experience from which divine intervention ensured their survival.

Omudu commended the bravery of police officers from the Idekpa Division in Ohimini, who stood their ground and successfully repelled the attackers. He also extended appreciation to local vigilantes who collaborated with security forces to thwart what could have escalated into a deadly assault. Additionally, he thanked the ADC leadership and members in the constituency for their confidence in him following his emergence as the party’s candidate.

Earlier, the party’s leadership in the constituency had unanimously adopted Omudu after his sole challenger withdrew from the race, paving the way for his candidacy.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ebonyi State has officially selected Mr. Oriji Tobias Nnabuike as its governorship flag bearer for the 2027 general elections. Mr. Bassie Umoke, the Coordinator of Electoral Matters and State Returning Officer, made the announcement after the primary election held at the party’s state office on Old Enugu Road in Abakaliki, the state capital.

According to Mr. Umoke, Nnabuike garnered 6,400 votes in the contest, which took place across all 171 wards in Ebonyi. A total of 6,730 party members were accredited for the exercise, and 6,400 delegates ultimately cast their ballots. The voting process was carried out at the ward level, following guidelines from the party’s national leadership.

The returning officer explained that the results were first compiled at ward-level collation centers before being transferred to constituency centers, then to local government centers, and finally to the state collation center for the official declaration. He noted that this thorough process accounted for the time required to finalize the outcome.

To enhance transparency and credibility, the ADC adopted an electronic membership register for the primaries. Mr. Umoke emphasized that this system eliminated common irregularities seen in conventional party primaries and made all figures verifiable. “We aim to change the narrative and make Nigeria workable. Every registered member automatically becomes a delegate for congresses and primaries, and what you see here is fully verifiable,” he stated.

The Ebonyi State Chairman of ADC, Dr. Jennifer Adibe, praised the peaceful and transparent nature of the primary elections. She confirmed that the party has also produced candidates for the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate seats ahead of the 2027 polls. For positions with multiple aspirants, direct primaries were conducted, while others were settled through consensus.

Dr. Adibe dismissed any concerns about insecurity during the exercise, noting that security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), monitored the proceedings across the state. She expressed optimism that the ADC would emerge as a formidable force capable of challenging dominant parties in Ebonyi in the upcoming elections.

The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Primary Election Committee, Dr. Pascale Okafor, commended party members for maintaining order throughout the primaries. He described the exercise as peaceful and in strict compliance with the Electoral Act. Similarly, the Deputy National Auditor of ADC and Secretary of the Electoral Committee in Ebonyi, Princess Nneka Nnebu, applauded the turnout and noted that no major challenges were recorded.