Nigerian

In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has permitted a prosecution witness to testify under protective conditions during the trial of a retired army general and five co-defendants accused of orchestrating a failed coup against President Bola Tinubu. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik issued the ruling following requests from the prosecution, which highlighted the necessity of such measures for security reasons as the proceedings unfold. The federal government has brought forth 13 charges, including treason,…

In a shocking incident, eight children are still unaccounted for following an armed assault on an unregistered orphanage in Kogi State. Kingsley Fanwo, the state's information commissioner, reported that 15 children were successfully rescued thanks to a "prompt and coordinated response" from security forces. While no group has officially claimed responsibility for this violent act, security officials suggest that a functional Boko Haram cell operates within the region, citing a history of violent incidents there. Fanwo…

In a significant move aimed at boosting infrastructure, President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate's approval to secure a $516.3 million loan from Deutsche Bank AG. This lending initiative is backed by insurance from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit, part of the Islamic Development Bank. Tinubu emphasized that the funding would be directed towards the construction of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a centerpiece project within his Renewed Hope Agenda. The ambitious…

The Nigerian government has officially charged a number of retired senior military officers in connection with an alleged coup attempt aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu. The accused appeared before a Federal High Court in Abuja, facing a serious 13-count indictment that includes conspiring to "levy war against the state." Reports suggest that the conspirators planned to invade the Presidential Villa, seize control of the government, and imprison President Tinubu along with other senior officials. This intricate…

Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Nigerian petroleum minister, has made headlines as she stands trial in London, vehemently denying allegations of bribery and luxury accommodations linked to government contracts. Accused of enjoying opulent stays and extravagant spending sprees in the UK, she asserts that these claims are baseless. In her testimony to the jury, Alison-Madueke maintained her innocence, stating she never misused her position to solicit or accept bribes, despite facing six serious charges under the UK Bribery…

In a dramatic turn of events, the military announced the successful rescue of 31 worshippers who had been taken hostage during a violent assault on a church in northwestern Kaduna state. The attack unfolded in Ariko village, where both a Catholic and an evangelical church were targeted during Easter services. Tragically, seven individuals lost their lives, with the military reporting that five bodies were discovered at the scene. This horrific incident occurred despite a directive from the police chief for a "massive…

A significant shake-up is underway in the Nigerian government, sparked by a decisive ultimatum from President Bola Tinubu. This mandate compelled public officials eyeing a run in the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions. Among the notable resignations are at least three cabinet ministers, including the pivotal Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Transport, along with several other influential political figures. This directive is firmly rooted in existing electoral regulations, which prohibit those holding…

In a decisive move, the House of Representatives has greenlit President Bola Tinubu's proposal for a substantial external loan totaling $6 billion, primarily designed to address fiscal deficits and support critical infrastructure initiatives. This approval facilitates the federal government’s ability to secure financing from international lenders based in the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. The comprehensive financial package encompasses a significant $5 billion Total Return Swap arrangement with First Abu…

In a call to action, Human Rights Watch (HRW) is pressuring Nigerian officials to prioritize civilian safety in high-risk areas and to improve early warning systems in response to the tragic bombings that recently shook Maiduguri. The deadly attacks on March 16, 2026, targeted bustling public spaces—including a market, a post office, and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital—resulting in the loss of 23 lives and leaving 108 others injured. HRW highlighted that the indiscriminate nature of these…

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria's (FAAN) newly launched cashless payment system has triggered massive congestion at the country's major airports, leaving motorists and travelers stranded for hours. The policy, which took effect on March 1, aims to curb revenue leakages but has instead resulted in significant delays and frustration. Heavy gridlock was reported at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja as drivers scrambled to obtain the new toll payment…