Africa News Connect

The Army Council has given the green light for the promotion of 105 senior officers in the Nigerian Army to the ranks of Major General and Brigadier General. This advancement includes 28 Brigadier Generals elevated to Major General and 77 Colonels promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. Among those promoted to Major General are O Adegbe from the Defence Intelligence Agency, SM Uba from Defence Information, RE Hedima from Military Intelligence, and RT Utsaha from Defence Operations. The list also comprises AM Umar from the Warrant Officer Academy, S Sulaiman from the Military Secretary Office, IO Bassey from the Army Operations Centre, and CA Ekeator from the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. Image credit: Premium Times Nigeria Other senior officials who have been promoted to Major General include SY Yakasai from the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, WL Nzidee from the Department of Army Logistics, SA Emmanuel from Nigerian Army Signals, SS Tilawan from Sector 3 Joint...

 The Nigerian Army has made notable progress in its counterinsurgency and general security operations over the past 24 hours. Troops have effectively rescued individuals who were kidnapped, disrupted terrorist activities, and dismantled illegal crude oil operations across multiple regions. Operational units have kept a high level of activity in all theaters while swiftly addressing new threats. Image credit: Getty Images In the Northwest, soldiers taking part in Operation FANSAN YAMMA confronted terrorists in several skirmishes. Troops from 1 Brigade responded to an assault in the Baigasuwa community of Maradun Local Government Area in Zamfara State. This action led to the retreat of the armed groups, enabling the rescue of residents, although four civilians suffered gunshot wounds during the confrontation. In the nearby Kebbi State, terrorists attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service checkpoint in Bagudo, resulting in the fatalities of three personnel and damage to operational vehic...

Fifty out of more than three hundred students taken from a Catholic school in Nigeria have managed to escape and reunite with their families. Religious leaders verified that the students broke free from captivity over the weekend. Approximately 253 children, along with several teachers and staff, are still being held by the kidnappers. The school's administrator mentioned that anxious parents flocked to the institution in Niger State upon learning about the escape. While some parents found relief, others learned that their children were not among those who returned. Families remain at the school waiting for further updates. President Bola Tinubu has responded to the crisis by ordering the recruitment of 30,000 more police officers. He also instructed that law enforcement officers currently assigned to protect dignitaries be reassigned to focus on essential security operations, especially in remote areas that are susceptible to attacks. Read Also:  More Discussions on US Military In...

 The Trump administration might also decide to intensify its pressure campaign using less overt tactics, such as implementing sanctions, according to Jonathan Pratt, a senior official in the African Affairs Bureau at the State Department, who spoke before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The White House presents its primary goal as the protection of religious freedoms. “The Trump administration is formulating a strategy to encourage and require the Nigerian government to enhance the safety of Christian communities and advance religious liberty,” Pratt mentioned on Thursday. “This strategy will take into account U.S. State and Treasury involvement with sanctions, as well as potential Department of Defense efforts in counterterrorism and additional initiatives to safeguard religious communities.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, engaged in discussions with a Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuh...

 Dr. Chima Desmond Anyaso, a well-known business leader and former deputy governor candidate in Abia State, has called on President Bola Tinubu to utilize his constitutional power to grant a presidential pardon to Nnamdi Kanu. This request comes in light of a recent court ruling concerning the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra. Anyaso is aligning himself with an increasing number of regional leaders who are pushing for this decision. In a statement issued from Abia State, Anyaso expressed that this moment is the perfect opportunity for a conclusive political solution to the ongoing dilemma. He explained that he had chosen to remain silent publicly while the case was still being litigated to prevent any appearance of interference. However, he mentioned that with the latest judicial updates, the process has progressed to a point where executive judgment can now appropriately be exercised to facilitate a pardon for Kanu. Kindly share this story for Africa News Connect...

The Federal High Court in Abuja has mandated that the verdict in Nnamdi Kanu's terrorism trial be pronounced in his absence. The court cited the defendant’s disruptive and aggressive behavior as the reason for this decision. The presiding judge stated that this action was consistent with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Additionally, the court rejected a motion from the defendant to halt proceedings. It was concluded that existing legal regulations prohibit the delay of criminal trials to avert unnecessary postponements during the appeal process. The judge pointed out that, although a defendant's presence is a constitutional right, it is not unconditional and may be waived if the individual exhibits disruptive conduct. The court referenced previous occurrences where the defendant confronted security personnel and interrupted legal counsel, asserting the need to uphold the integrity of the judicial system. This ruling came after a request from the prosecution to permi...

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have ramped up their operations nationwide, eliminating numerous terrorists, rescuing 67 individuals who were kidnapped, and apprehending 94 criminal suspects over the past two weeks. On Friday in Abuja, Maj.-Gen. Olatokunbo Bello, the Director of Defence Media Operations, provided an update on military operations carried out from November 3 to 14. Mr. Bello reported that troops seized a significant amount of weapons and ammunition, including automatic rifles, machine guns, RPG tubes, homemade firearms, and materials for making IEDs, as well as dismantling criminal camps and supply bases. In the North East, he noted that the troops of Operation Hadin Kai maintained aggressive actions in Borno and Adamawa States, resulting in the deaths of several Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters. He mentioned that troops also detained 45 informants, collaborators, and logistics providers linked to terrorists, and rescued one kidnapped individual. According to Mr. Bello, f...

Following a recent confrontation with a Nigerian Navy officer over a disputed property in the Gaduwa area of Abuja, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has addressed the incident. The minister affirmed that he will not be intimidated by the military for carrying out his duties and ensuring due diligence in the acquisition and use of land within the FCT. Speaking to journalists at the site of the altercation, he expressed dismay that an individual allegedly in the wrong would resort to using military personnel to intimidate government officials. READ ALSO:  He stated his firm resolve not to succumb to any form of blackmail or intimidation. The minister questioned the fairness of such actions, asking what recourse is available to ordinary citizens who do not have military or security connections. He described a situation where government officials performing their duties are confronted by security forces as unacceptable. Minister Wike confirmed that he has con...

 Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed confidence in Nigeria's ability to surmount its current security and socioeconomic challenges, calling on citizens to foster greater unity and collaborate towards national progress. Speaking in Kaduna on Tuesday at a lecture commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the governor delivered a message of optimism. The event, held at the Arewa House Auditorium, was themed “65th Year of Nigeria Independence: The Journey So Far with the Renewed Hope Agenda in View.” Governor Sanwo-Olu affirmed that the nation would overcome its obstacles, including poverty, hunger, and terrorism, echoing sentiments expressed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He highlighted the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda as a comprehensive framework designed to drive economic growth, enhance infrastructure, develop human capital, and reform governance. He explained that this national vision encourages state governments to create aligned po...

Tensions flared in the Gaduwa District of Abuja on Tuesday when military forces allegedly prevented the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, from halting an unauthorized construction project on a disputed parcel of land. The armed personnel were reportedly operating under the orders of retired Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, who previously served as Chief of Naval Staff during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Image credit: Thisday The conflict began when officials from the FCT Administration (FCTA) sought to enforce a demolition order on what they deemed an illegal structure on Plot 1946. They faced staunch opposition from uniformed soldiers who were guarding the site. The situation intensified with the arrival of Minister Wike, who was joined by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, along with other senior officials. The military personnel initially prevented the minister from accessing the area. Despite the efforts of the commanding officer,...

 A leading figure in the House of Representatives, Honorable Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, has formally announced his exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and his reinstatement to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The federal lawmaker, who has previously held the position of Director General of the Tinubu Support Groups, has also pledged his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s campaign for reelection in 2027. Image credit: The Guardian This action signifies a significant shift in the political landscape of Kano State, occurring merely two years prior to the upcoming general elections. Honorable Jibrin proclaimed his decision on Sunday in his native Kofa, situated in the Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State. He was met with a large crowd of supporters, local residents, and religious leaders. A notable presence consisted of around 2,000 Islamic scholars who gathered to pray for his political shift and for the success of President Tinubu's government. Their pra...

 The Igbo Women Assembly (IWA) has stated that anyone who disregards the allegations of genocide against Christians in Nigeria is, in fact, complicit. The organization asserts that the murders taking place in various parts of the nation are both intentional and thoroughly documented. Image credit: TikTok In an official statement from its President, Lolo Nneka Chimezie, the assembly expressed appreciation for former United States President Donald Trump. They acknowledged his decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, which he based on what he described as the systemic persecution of Christians. The IWA also supported President Trump's warning regarding the possible military action against those responsible for the violence. The assembly believes that the comments made by the former US leader have pressured the Nigerian Government to address atrocities it had previously ignored. The statement emphasized, “We thank President Donald Trump for highlighting the k...

  The Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, informed troops on Friday that the next operational phase against the insurgent groups Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province would be decisive. This declaration follows public statements from United States President Donald Trump threatening potential military action if Nigeria does not stop violence directed at Christians. Image credit: Channels Television Addressing soldiers of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, General Shaibu emphasized that the military is entering a critical stage of its campaign where failure is not an option. He stated that the necessary combat enablers and new platforms have been provided to ensure a successful outcome, signaling a different strategic approach. General Shaibu conveyed that the responsibility for delivering a conclusive blow to the extremist factions now rests with a new generation of soldiers. He challenged them to exceed the accomplishments of previous forces wh...

  The Russian government is carefully observing the situation in Nigeria following remarks from United States President Donald Trump that suggested possible American military intervention in the West African nation. At a press briefing in Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Russia is closely monitoring the issue. She called on all involved parties to strictly adhere to international legal norms and urged Washington to act with responsibility and within the framework of international law. Image credit: mid.ru The remarks were a direct response to President Trump's announcement on November 1, in which he stated he had instructed the Pentagon to develop options for potential military measures against terrorist groups in Nigeria. Trump asserted the objective would be to safeguard Christian communities. In a social media post, he described Christianity in Nigeria as facing a significant threat from radical Islamist groups, alleging the mass killing o...

Reports indicate the United States military is developing contingency plans for potential armed intervention in Nigeria. This action follows a directive reportedly issued by President Donald Trump instructing the Pentagon to prepare for intervention to safeguard Christian populations from terrorist violence.             Image credit: PRIO In response to a request from Secretary Pete Hegseth, United States Africa Command is said to have submitted several operational possibilities to the Department of Defense consistent with the presidential order. Officials familiar with the proposals described three tiers of engagement. A heavy option would involve deploying an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea with air assets capable of striking targets deep within northern Nigeria. A medium option would utilize unmanned drones for targeted attacks on insurgent camps, convoys, and vehicles, coordinated with American intelligence to ensure precise operatio...

 A United States lawmaker, Riley Moore, has rejected China’s warning to Washington regarding possible American military involvement in Nigeria. Moore stated that the United States would not yield to pressure from Beijing and emphasized that America has a duty to defend Christians suffering violent attacks in Nigeria. His position followed reports of China cautioning the United States against any plan to intervene in Nigeria’s security challenges, urging Washington to respect what it described as Nigeria’s internal affairs. In a statement on his X page on Tuesday, Moore expressed support for former President Donald Trump’s firm stance on religious freedom and the protection of Christian communities. He wrote that President Trump was right to defend Christians who face severe persecution and even martyrdom for their faith. Moore also criticized China, accusing it of hypocrisy and widespread human rights violations. He maintained that the United States would not accept moral lect...

A notable disagreement arose in the Senate chamber between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and his deputy, Barau Jibrin, concerning a purported military threat from former United States President Donald Trump. The discussion began when Senator Akpabio addressed a viral online publication. This report falsely claimed he had responded to President Trump by stating that Christians in Nigeria were not complaining and that the American president should concentrate on his own country's affairs. The widely circulated story provoked public condemnation, with many viewing the alleged remarks as divisive. During the plenary session, Senator Akpabio categorically denied the report, labeling it as false and questioning the motives behind the fabrication. He stressed that he never made any such statement. Akpabio further contended that he, as the nation's third ranking citizen, lacked the constitutional authority to issue an official response to a foreign head of state. He explained...

  The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has called upon the Federal Government to urgently organize an inter religious dialogue. This call aims to alleviate national tension following allegations by United  States President Donald Trump of a Christian genocide in the country. In a formal communication released after an emergency meeting in Abuja, the council outlined several recommendations to address the growing international and domestic backlash. The meeting was prompted by the significant media reactions to the genocide claims and concerns over the Federal Government’s prolonged delay in appointing ambassadors to key nations. President Trump recently alleged on his Truth Social platform that Christianity faces an existential threat in Nigeria, with thousands of Christians being killed. These comments have sparked considerable debate both locally and internationally. The council advised the government, through the Office of the National Security Adviser, to ...

China has issued a warning against interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs following threats by United States President Donald Trump to deploy military forces over the alleged killings of Christians in the country.  The two nations maintain strong political and economic ties, with significant partnerships in infrastructure and trade. In recent years, Nigeria and China have reinforced their strategic relationship through trade, development financing, and multilateral cooperation. Speaking to journalists today, Tuesday, November 4, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, reaffirmed her country's support for Nigeria as a “comprehensive strategic partner.”  She urged respect for national sovereignty and for development paths that align with local conditions. Ning stated that China firmly supports the Nigerian government in guiding its people along a development path suited to its national conditions.  She emphasized that Beijing opposes any country using religion ...

  Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, has asserted that it would be diplomatically unacceptable for the United States to conduct any military operation in Nigeria without the nation's consent.  Bwala's remarks were made during an interview with the BBC World Service on Monday. He emphasized Nigeria's status as a sovereign nation, stating that any foreign intervention in its internal security affairs must be a collaborative effort that respects the country's territorial integrity.  "If it's a joint operation with Nigeria, that's acceptable," Bwala clarified, adding, "But diplomatically, it is wrong to invade a sovereign nation without collaboration, especially one that remains a strategic partner in the fight against insecurity." Bwala's comments were in response to recent statements by US President Donald Trump, who designated Nigeria as a "country of particular concern" regarding ...