NIGERIAN NOTCH

United States President Donald Trump has announced that U.S. forces carried out airstrikes against what he described as terrorist targets in northern Nigeria, marking what he said was America’s first direct military action in the West African country. In a statement posted late Thursday on his social media platform, Truth Social, Mr Trump said the strikes were directed at ISIS-linked elements operating in north-western Nigeria and accused the group of targeting Christian communities. “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorists in north-west Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians,” Mr Trump wrote. The announcement followed reports earlier this week that the United States had been conducting intelligence-gathering flights over Nigerian airspace since November. Those operations reportedly came after Mr Trump publicly threatened military action ag...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr  In a period when public confidence in security institutions is critical to social stability and economic growth, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has emerged as a symbol of purposeful leadership and proactive policing. Since assuming office, CP Orutugu has pursued a clear and deliberate mission: to make Anambra State safe, peaceful, and livable for residents, investors, and visitors alike. At the heart of his strategy is intelligence-driven policing. CP Orutugu has strengthened intelligence gathering and analysis, ensuring that criminal activities are anticipated and neutralised before they escalate. This forward-looking approach has translated into sustained patrols, strategic stop-and-search operations, and targeted raids on criminal hideouts across the state. The result has been a noticeable disruption of violent crimes, cultism, armed robbery, and other threats to public safety. Beyond enforcement, CP Orutugu...

Former Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, PhD, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, peace, and youth-focused development as the country celebrates Christmas. In a Christmas goodwill message to Nigerians, Nwajiuba extended warm greetings to citizens across the country, particularly Christians, describing the season as a period for reflection, gratitude, and recommitment to the values of love, sacrifice, and service to humanity. Drawing from his experience in public service, the former minister emphasized the central role of education in national development, noting that it remains the most reliable pathway to overcoming Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. He stressed that investing in education is critical to securing a brighter future for the nation, especially for young people whom he described as Nigeria’s greatest asset. Nwajiuba commended the resilience and determination of Nigerian youths who continue to pursue excellence and innovation d...

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately enforce the judgment of the Supreme Court mandating direct allocation of funds to local governments from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). Atiku noted that by July next year, the Tinubu administration would have spent two full years without implementing the binding ruling of the apex court, a development he described as a serious challenge to constitutional governance and the rule of law. According to him, the failure to act goes beyond administrative delay and amounts to open defiance of the Supreme Court. He stressed that judgments of the apex court are final and binding on all authorities, warning that persistent refusal to enforce them undermines the supremacy of the Constitution and violates the presidential oath of office. The former vice president emphasized that local governments remain the closest tier of government to the people and are critical to grass...

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, FWC, MNIPS, PhD, has called for renewed collaboration among government, security agencies, community leaders and residents to sustain peace and security across the state. Speaking at the 2025 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons and End-of-Year Party of the Anambra State Police Command, CP Orutugu described the event as a moment of reflection, gratitude and recommitment to service, as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and prepare for the year ahead. He noted that the values of love, peace, sacrifice,and goodwill associated with the Christmas season align with the theme of the event, “Policing: A Shared Responsibility.” According to him, effective security cannot be achieved by the Police alone but requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious institutions, youth groups, the media and law-abiding citizens. The Police Commissioner expressed ...

The Amazon Ladies Association Ukehe has brought hope and joy to residents as it organised a Christmas charity outreach aimed at supporting less-privileged members of the community. The event was hosted under the leadership of the association’s President and Founder, Chief Pet Amaka Ugwu, who was ably represented by the Vice President, Mrs. Ekwy Ngwu. Participants were warmly received as the association reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian service. The highlight of the programme was the distribution of Christmas support to carefully identified beneficiaries drawn from various villages in Ukehe. The gesture brought smiles and relief to recipients, many of whom expressed deep gratitude for the association’s kindness. One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Virginus Akwolu Jnr., thanked the group, describing the intervention as a blessing and pledging that the generosity of the Amazon Ladies Association Ukehe would not be forgotten. Notable members of the association pre...

The Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Worldwide Diaspora Network, Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, has commended Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for what he described as a courageous and historic decision to defect to the ADC. In a press statement issued on December 18, 2025, Jaafar congratulated Senator Kingibe, noting that her move marks the first time an incumbent senator has joined the ADC. He described the development as a strong affirmation that integrity, principled leadership and loyalty to the electorate should supersede political convenience. According to him, Senator Kingibe’s decision sends a clear signal that Nigerian politics can still be anchored on conviction, accountability and genuine service to the people. He said her action represents a bold stand for democratic values and a renewed hope for citizens seeking responsive and people-centred governance. Jaafar further urged other elected officials acro...

The Anambra State Police Command has called on members of the public, including individuals, groups, political organisations, religious bodies and non-governmental organisations planning to distribute palliatives during the Yuletide season, to notify relevant security agencies ahead of time. The directive, according to the Command, is part of measures to ensure adequate security deployment, maintain orderliness and guarantee public safety during the festive period, while preventing any untoward incidents that may arise from large gatherings. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 23rd December 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, said the initiative is aimed at strengthening collaboration between security agencies and the public in order to sustain peace and security across the state throughout the Yuletide celebrations. “The Command seeks the cooperation and understanding of all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, safe and secure Yuletide...

Residents of Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State have raised the alarm over an alleged illegal takeover of their lands, following what they described as a forceful invasion by armed men claiming to be acting on “government directives.” In an open letter addressed to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the residents appealed for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation of tension in the community and to restore public confidence in the rule of law. According to the petition, panic gripped the area on Tuesday when armed individuals reportedly stormed the layout, barred landowners from accessing their legally acquired properties, and destroyed homes and perimeter fences. The development, residents said, triggered a spontaneous protest as affected persons demanded immediate government action to halt what they described as intimidation and unlawful land seizure. Chairman of the Estate, Chief Moses, whose property was also alle...

The Anambra State Police Command has announced plans to host a Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons and an End-of-Year Party on December 23, 2025, as part of activities to mark the yuletide season and strengthen community partnership in security management. The event, themed “Policing: A Shared Responsibility,” is scheduled to hold by 5:00 p.m. at the Vertex View Hall, Nibo, Awka. It is expected to attract a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including Ndi Anambra, security agencies, community leaders, and other relevant partners across the state. According to the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, MNIPS, PhD, the programme is designed to deepen collaboration between the Police and residents of the state, while promoting unity, trust, and a shared commitment to peace and public safety. He noted that the gathering would also provide an opportunity for the Command to appreciate stakeholders for their support, cooperation, and contributions to sustaining security in Anambr...

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected fake armed vigilante operatives allegedly involved in criminal conspiracy and armed robbery in Awka, as part of ongoing efforts to sustain public safety during the Yuletide season. Police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, effected the arrests during an operation at Ring Road, Nibo, Awka, following intelligence-led investigations. Two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, an ash-coloured shuttle bus, face masks, a vehicle number plate and other incriminating items were recovered from the suspects. Those arrested, all males, were identified as Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa and Eze Obinna Joshua. According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects operated in a shuttle bus while impersonating vigilante personnel, using the disguise to rob unsuspecting members of the public. During interrogation, the s...

The Management of Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited (EEDL), a subsidiary of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) Plc responsible for electricity distribution in Ebonyi State, has celebrated its workforce for dedication, teamwork and outstanding performance at its End-of-Year Party and Staff Recognition Awards ceremony. The event, held over the weekend in a warm and convivial atmosphere, brought together management and staff to reflect on the year’s achievements and recognise excellence across departments. Speaking at the occasion, the Managing Director of EEDL, Engr. Nnamdi Chuka-Nwosu, commended staff for their resilience, commitment and remarkable accomplishments during the year, describing the gathering as a moment of gratitude, reflection and renewed hope. “It has been a wonderful year and a remarkable experience working with all of you. You have been awesome. You have achieved new milestones, some of which once seemed unthinkabl...

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, on Saturday, December 20, 2025, led members of the institution’s Management, Governing Council and staff to the wedding ceremony of Engr. Uche Victor Ndife and Chioma Judith Ndife, held in Awka, Anambra State. Engr. Uche Victor Ndife is the son of a former Bursar of the Polytechnic, Mr. Bertram Ndife, and Dr. Chinelo Ndife, a member of the Governing Council and Director of the Ufuma Campus of the institution. The couple, who are both lecturers at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, made the occasion particularly significant, drawing a large turnout from the polytechnic community and giving the ceremony a distinct institutional flavour. The wedding, marked by joy, music and celebration, provided an avenue for staff and stakeholders of the Polytechnic to reunite, further reflecting the spirit of camaraderie, brotherhood and mutual respect that characterise the institution. Presenting gifts to the newlyweds on beha...

Ahead of Governor Peter Mbah’s visit to Achi, in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State, the youth wing of apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has sent a special message to the governor.  The message, signed by the group’s National Secretary, Comrade Obinna Achionye, stressed that, Ohanaeze youths, while felicitating with the Achi community on the visit, described Governor Mbah as a trailblazer, who had redefined governance in the state.  “We heartily welcome the record-breaking governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah to Achi community in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State.  “On behalf of our National President, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, who is from the Achi community, we welcome the people’s governor. “We have always identified with His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, going by the numerous people-oriented projects he has been carrying out in Enugu State.  “As he visits the Achi community today, w...

By Chinwe Onuigbo, Anambra  The Anambra State Government has recorded a budget performance of over 70 per cent for the 2024 fiscal year, alongside a significant reduction in unresolved audit queries from ₦2.5 billion in 2023 to about ₦750 million in 2024. The State Auditor-General, Mr. Akosa Okocha, disclosed this on Thursday in Awka during the Audit Forum and Citizens Accountability Dialogue on the 2024 State Financial Statements, organised in line with the States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) framework and international best practices. Okocha said the state performed creditably during the year, posting a revenue surplus above its budget projection, despite a budget shortfall of 28.70 per cent. According to him, Anambra overachieved its expected revenue by ₦92.81 billion, representing 33.21 per cent of projected revenue. He explained that while the state projected an expenditure of ₦410.13 billion for 2024, actual spending stood at ₦292...

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, MNIPS, PhD, on Friday led a statewide walk and advocacy campaign against cultism and other social vices, warning perpetrators that the Command would no longer tolerate activities capable of undermining public peace and security. The exercise, held on December 19, 2025, brought together senior police officers, personnel of the Command, critical stakeholders and concerned members of the public in a show of collective resolve to rid the state of cult-related violence and criminality. Addressing participants during the walk, CP Orutugu “read the riot act” to individuals involved in cultism and allied crimes, stressing that the Police would deploy all lawful means to prevent crime, apprehend offenders and sustain law and order across Anambra State. He explained that the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) is a community-driven initiative of the Nigeria Police Force, which...

Barely months after assuming office on February 5, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has outlined early gains recorded under her administration, stressing discipline, peace and institutional renewal as pillars of her leadership. Dr. Awuzie spoke on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Polytechnic’s Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons held at the Convocation Arena, attended by members of the Governing Council, former rectors, principal officers, staff, students and other stakeholders. Reflecting on the significance of Christmas, the Rector described the season as one of hope, unity and moral rebirth, urging the Polytechnic community to embrace compassion, humility and shared responsibility. She noted that within Igbo culture, Christmas goes beyond celebration, symbolising communal living and mutual care. Commending staff for their dedication and resilience, Dr. Awuzie acknowledged the contributions of academic, administrative and technical per...

The Anambra State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Corps Commander Bridget Asekhuno, has met with the Onitsha Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Nzota Chidi, to strengthen inter-agency collaboration ahead of the Yuletide rush. The meeting, held in Onitsha on Thursday, focused on strategies to manage the anticipated surge in vehicular movement and ease congestion around critical corridors, including the Niger Bridge, the Second Niger Bridge and major routes within Onitsha metropolis. Asekhuno said the engagement was part of proactive measures by the FRSC to ensure free flow of traffic and enhance safety for road users during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. She emphasised that effective traffic management during the festive season requires strong synergy among security and traffic management agencies. “Working in synergy with sister agencies remains key to achieving seamless traffic ...

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of one Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), alongside 774 other senior and junior officers of the Nigeria Police Force. The promotions were approved on Thursday following written examinations and oral interviews conducted on December 17, 2025, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The exercise was presided over by the PSC Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Hashimu Salihu Argungu. Among those elevated is AIG Mohammed Usman Gumel, who was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police. Until his elevation, Gumel served as the AIG in charge of the Community Policing Project Department at the Force Headquarters. In the same exercise, seven Commissioners of Police (CPs) were promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs). They include CP Ihebom Chukwuma of the Force Criminal Investigation Departm...

The Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has approved the promotion of teaching and non-teaching staff for the 2026 exercise, with effect from January 1, 2026. The approval was granted at the 124th meeting of the Council, chaired by its Chairman, Senator Engr. Dr. Barnabas Gemade. According to the decision, promotion letters will be issued to the affected staff in due course. The development underscores the institution’s commitment to staff welfare, motivation and adherence to due process in career advancement.

The Labour Party (LP), under the leadership of its Acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, has released a comprehensive timetable and schedule of activities to kick-start preparations for the 2027 general elections. The timetable, contained in a document dated November 17, 2025, was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and acknowledged by the electoral body on November 21, 2025. According to the schedule, the party’s National Convention is slated for February 28, 2026. Other key activities outlined include the inauguration of the National Steering Committee for membership revalidation and new registration, alongside the unveiling of a nationwide membership mobilisation drive tagged “Labour Party Connect 10 Million Nigerians.” The exercise, which was formally flagged off on December 17, 2025, is expected to run until January 10, 2026. The timetable further indicates that ward congresses will hold on January 13, followed by Local Governmen...

The Federal Government has reopened all 47 Unity Colleges across the country, reaffirming its commitment to the safety of students and the uninterrupted delivery of education nationwide. The Federal Ministry of Education disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs Boriowo Folasade. According to the statement, academic activities have fully resumed in the affected schools following the strengthening of security measures within and around the campuses. Students have returned safely, with many currently concluding their December academic programmes, while others have successfully completed their examinations. The ministry assured parents, guardians and the general public that the safety, welfare and well-being of students remain a top priority of the Federal Government. It noted that the government is working closely with relevant security agencies to sustain stability and restore normalcy in school environments across th...

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, on Wednesday, December 18, 2025, commended three police officers, Inspector Okoma Ewa, Corporal Chawalamoke Godsfavour and Constable Emekwisore Ifeanyi, for their exceptional courage, swift response and professionalism in the line of duty. The officers were commended for their uncommon bravery and tactical efficiency in responding promptly to a reported incident, a move that denied armed hoodlums the opportunity to unleash violence in the people. It was gathered that their timely intervention led to the recovery of arms, stolen money and other incriminating items. CP Orutugu however noted that the actions of the officers reflected the core values of the Nigeria Police Force and underscored the importance of discipline, dedication and selfless service to the public. He described their conduct as exemplary and worthy of emulation by other personnel of the Force. The Commissioner assured that acts...

The Anambra State Police Command, through the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), will on Friday, December 19, 2025, organise a public awareness walk to discourage cultism and other social vices across the state. The walk, scheduled to commence at 7:00 a.m., will take off from Dr Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, and forms part of the ongoing efforts of the Inspector-General of Police to promote peace, security and moral reorientation, particularly among youths. According to the Command, the initiative is aimed at sensitising members of the public on the dangers associated with cultism, drug abuse, violent crimes and other related vices, while encouraging positive behavioural change and greater community involvement in crime prevention. The event is expected to draw broad participation from security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth organisations, transport unions—including tricycle (keke) and bus operators—students, civil society groups...

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr Chioma Irene Awuzie, on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, inspected the ongoing construction work at the Hospitality Management Building Complex within the institution. The multi-purpose complex, which has reached an advanced stage of completion, comprises staff offices, two conference halls and state-of-the-art guest rooms designed to support teaching, learning and professional training in hospitality management. The project had remained abandoned for over a decade following the suspension of construction work. However, renewed efforts by the Rector after assuming office in February this year led to the resumption and revitalisation of the project through the intervention of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). Dr Awuzie, who was accompanied by members of the institution’s management team during the inspection, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work. She noted that upon completion, the facility would sign...

The Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Worldwide Diaspora Network, Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, has raised concern over the growing wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Jaafar acknowledged that political realignment is a constitutional right but cautioned that the mass and strategic movement of elected officials and political actors into a single ruling party is pushing the country toward a de facto one-party system. According to him, such a development weakens opposition parties, erodes checks and balances, and undermines the foundations of participatory democracy. “A vibrant democracy thrives on strong opposition that questions policies, holds government accountable and provides credible alternatives,” the statement read. “What we are witnessing, however, is the systematic weakening of opposition parties...

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has said the Command recorded significant security successes in 2025, including the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims, the arrest of over 300 criminal suspects and the recovery of more than 2,000 arms and ammunition across the state. CP Orutugu disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, as part of an end-of-year assessment of security operations in the state. Speaking on behalf of officers and men of the Command, the Commissioner noted that while total security is yet to be achieved, the cooperation, trust and timely support of residents played a critical role in the progress recorded during the year. He explained that crime patterns fluctuated in 2025 due to prevailing socio-economic realities and evolving security challenges nationwide. However, through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations and enhanced community engag...