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  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. CAN Declares ‘Black Sunday’ Over Rising Insecurity

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) marked Sunday, June 14, as a nationwide “Black Sunday,” calling on churches across the country to observe the day in black attire in honour of victims of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and other violent attacks.

    The directive followed an emergency National Executive Council meeting chaired by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, alongside a three-day national prayer programme held between June 12 and 14. The body said the gesture was aimed at drawing national attention to worsening insecurity across states including Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, and Borno.

    CAN also urged authorities to go beyond prayers and adopt stronger practical measures, including proposals for a possible state of emergency on insecurity, as public frustration continues to grow over repeated attacks and abductions in several communities.

    2. Tinubu Celebrates Abdulsalami Abubakar at 84

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined dignitaries in Abuja on June 13 to honour former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar during his 84th birthday and book launch.

    Tinubu praised Abdulsalami’s role in stabilising Nigeria’s democratic transition, describing him as a statesman whose influence remains significant in national unity discussions. He also directed the FCT Minister to allocate land for an Africa Resource Centre in his honour.

    The event drew political leaders and senior officials, reflecting ongoing efforts to recognise figures who shaped Nigeria’s return to civilian rule.

    3. Nigeria Repatriates Citizens From South Africa Amid Xenophobic Tensions

    The Federal Government has received the first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions targeting foreign nationals.

    Officials say the returnees were part of those who voluntarily requested evacuation as protests and threats escalated in some parts of the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated the airlift and is expected to continue monitoring the situation closely.

    Diplomatic discussions are ongoing as Nigeria seeks to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad while addressing recurring tensions faced by migrants in South Africa.

    4. Insecurity Triggers Protests and Community Reactions Nationwide

    Growing insecurity in parts of the country has continued to trigger public reactions, with protests reported in several states over kidnappings and killings.

    In some areas, residents blocked major roads in protest, demanding stronger government intervention. There were also reports of communities taking matters into their own hands after recent attacks, reflecting rising frustration with the pace of official response.

    Security agencies say they have recorded some successes, including rescue operations along highways, but recurring abductions, especially in rural communities and school environments, continue to fuel anxiety nationwide.

    5. Inflation Climbs as Food and Transport Costs Rise

    Nigeria’s inflation rate increased slightly to 15.69 percent in April 2026, up from 15.38 percent in March, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

    Food inflation also rose to 16.06 percent, driven by higher prices of essential staples and the impact of fuel costs on transportation and distribution. Analysts link the trend to exchange rate pressures, import dependence, and structural production challenges.

    The development continues to strain household incomes, with many Nigerians reporting reduced purchasing power amid rising cost of living pressures.

    6. Federal Government Inspects South-East Infrastructure Projects

    A presidential communications team has inspected several infrastructure projects in Ebonyi State as part of ongoing efforts to showcase development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Minister of Works Dave Umahi highlighted the expected economic impact of the projects, particularly in improving connectivity and easing transportation challenges in the South-East region.

    The inspection is part of a broader federal push to demonstrate delivery on infrastructure commitments across different geopolitical zones.

    7. Military Intensifies Operations Against Terror Groups

    Nigerian security forces have stepped up coordinated operations against terrorist groups and armed criminal networks in the North-East and North-West.

    Authorities say recent missions have led to arrests, neutralisation of some fighters, and rescue of kidnapped victims in states including Katsina and Kaduna. Intelligence-sharing with international partners is also reportedly being strengthened.

    However, continued attacks and abductions in some regions highlight the evolving and fragmented nature of the security threat across the country.

    8. Democracy Day Reflections Dominate National Conversations

    Discussions continue following Nigeria’s Democracy Day commemorations on June 12, marking 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.

    President Tinubu used the occasion to call for unity and resilience, while acknowledging the importance of constructive criticism in governance. Public reactions have remained mixed, with praise for democratic stability alongside concerns about insecurity and economic hardship.

    The moment has once again reignited debates on institutional reform, governance delivery, and the future direction of Nigeria’s democracy.

    9. US-Iran Peace Deal Sends Signals to Global Oil Markets

    The United States and Iran have reached an agreement aimed at easing recent tensions, with provisions reportedly including the reopening of key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

    The deal, announced by  US President Donald Trump, is expected to influence global oil flows, given the strategic importance of the region to international crude supply.

    Analysts say the development could affect oil prices and foreign exchange earnings for oil-dependent economies like Nigeria, which closely monitors global energy market shifts.

    10. Calls Intensify for Food Security and Economic Reform

    Stakeholders across the economic and agricultural sectors are calling for stronger interventions to address rising food prices and structural vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s economy.

    While recent GDP figures show modest growth, concerns remain over how macroeconomic gains translate to household welfare. Experts are urging increased investment in agriculture, local refining capacity, and targeted social safety nets.

    The focus, they say, is shifting toward long-term stability that can cushion citizens from persistent inflation and supply chain pressures.

     

  • Donald Trump Threatens Military Action Against Oman Over Strait of Hormuz Control Plan

    U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened possible military action against Oman if the Gulf nation moves ahead with plans to partner with Iran in asserting joint control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.

    Trump Issues Warning Over Strategic Waterway

    Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, May 27, Trump said the United States would not allow any country to control the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as international waters that must remain open for global trade.

    He warned that any attempt by Oman and Iran to impose control or introduce tolls on vessels passing through the route would be firmly resisted.

    “It’s international waters, and Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that. They’ll be fine,” Trump said.

    U.S.–Iran Negotiations Ongoing

    The comments come as U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue discussions aimed at reaching a memorandum of understanding to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping without additional charges.

    Reports suggest the talks also include negotiations over Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles, with both sides seeking to avoid further escalation.

    Strait of Hormuz at the Centre of Global Tensions

    The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, making it a recurring flashpoint in geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Iran, and Gulf states.

    Iran has reportedly explored arrangements with Oman that could introduce tolls for ships passing through the waterway, a move Washington strongly opposes.

    Growing Diplomatic Pressure

    Trump, who also hinted at potential military escalation if negotiations fail, said the U.S. could “finish the job” if a deal is not reached.

    The State Department further amplified his remarks by sharing a video of the warning on social media, underscoring Washington’s firm position on the matter.

    Diplomatic efforts involving Oman, a long-time mediator between the U.S. and Iran, continue amid rising uncertainty over the future of the agreement.

     

  • Trump Says He Will “Hold Off” On Iran Strike, Orders Military To Stay On High Alert

    United States President Donald Trump has said he will “hold off” on a planned military strike against Iran for now, following diplomatic intervention from Gulf leaders, while still ordering the US military to remain on high alert for a possible assault.

    Trump made the comments on Monday  night, May 18, via his Truth Social platform, where he said the decision followed requests from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

    Gulf Leaders Push For Delay In Strike

    According to Trump, the leaders of the Gulf states appealed for a short delay in order to allow ongoing negotiations with Iran to continue.

    He said the discussions around a possible agreement had become more “serious” and could potentially lead to a diplomatic breakthrough.

    “This deal will include, importantly, NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS FOR IRAN,” Trump wrote.

    The US President added that while he was willing to pause the planned military action, the situation remained uncertain and subject to Iran’s response.

    Military Told To Remain On Standby

    Despite the temporary pause, Trump instructed senior US military officials to remain fully prepared for a “full, large scale assault” if negotiations fail.

    He said the United States would act “on a moment’s notice” if Iran does not reach an acceptable agreement.

    Trump also hinted that the US had already reviewed potential strike options before the decision to delay the operation.

    Tensions Remain High Over Nuclear Deal

    The US President reiterated his long-standing position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, warning that military action remains an option if diplomacy fails.

    He noted that while there had been progress in discussions, previous negotiations had also come close without producing a final deal.

    “I was asked by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and others to hold off for a short period because they believe a deal may be close,” Trump said.

    Uncertainty Over Next Steps

    Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over nuclear enrichment and regional security concerns.

    While diplomatic channels remain open, both sides continue to disagree on key conditions of any potential agreement.

    Analysts say the situation remains fluid, with the next round of talks expected to determine whether the standoff moves toward diplomacy or renewed military escalation.

     

     

  • Trump Rejects Iran’s Peace Conditions, Says Proposal ‘Totally Unacceptable’

    United States President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s latest conditions aimed at ending the ongoing Middle East conflict, describing Tehran’s response to Washington’s proposal as “totally unacceptable.”

    The development has heightened concerns over renewed hostilities in the Middle East following weeks of diplomatic negotiations between both countries.

    Trump Reacts to Iran’s Response

    Trump made the remarks on Sunday in a post shared on his Truth Social platform while reacting to Iran’s reported counterproposal.

    “I have just read the response from Iran’s so-called ‘Representatives.’ I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Trump wrote.

    Although the US president did not reveal specific details of Iran’s demands, reports indicated that Tehran requested guarantees regarding its enriched uranium stockpile and broader regional security issues.

    The Donald Trump and Iran conflict has since become one of the most discussed topics in latest world news amid fears of another escalation in the region.

    Iran Maintains Defiant Position

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian insisted that Tehran would not surrender despite ongoing diplomatic discussions.

    “We will never bow down to the enemy, and if there is talk of dialogue or negotiation, it does not mean surrender or retreat,” Pezeshkian posted on X.

    According to reports from Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Tehran’s response was reportedly delivered to Washington through Pakistani mediators.

    The proposal allegedly focused on ending fighting across multiple fronts, including tensions involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also seeking guarantees over maritime security.

    Netanyahu Insists Iran’s Nuclear Programme Must End

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also maintained a hardline position, stating that the conflict could not end until Iran’s nuclear facilities were dismantled completely.

    “It’s not over, because there’s still nuclear material, enriched uranium, that has to be taken out of Iran,” Netanyahu said during an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes.”

    Reports by The Wall Street Journal further claimed that Iran proposed diluting part of its enriched uranium stockpile while transferring the remaining materials to a third country under certain guarantees.

    The negotiations reportedly included demands that the material be returned if future agreements collapsed or if the United States withdrew from the arrangement.

    Oil Prices Rise Amid Middle East Tensions

    The crisis reportedly began on February 28 following a joint operation involving the United States and Israel against Iran, an attack said to have resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader and several senior officials.

    The continuing deadlock has already impacted global markets, with oil prices reportedly rising by more than $4 per barrel on Monday amid fears surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

    Before the conflict escalated, the strategic waterway reportedly handled nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

    The latest Middle East conflict update has continued dominating breaking world news as global powers monitor the growing diplomatic and security tensions between Washington and Tehran.

  • Iran Proposes Deal to US to Reopen Strait of Hormuz as War Tensions Escalate

    Iran has proposed a new deal to the United States, offering to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if Washington agrees to lift its blockade on the strategic waterway.

    The proposal was reported by Axios, citing a US official and two sources familiar with the matter.

    Pakistan Acts as Channel for Proposal

    According to the report, the offer was delivered to American authorities through Pakistan, marking a fresh attempt at indirect diplomacy between both nations.

    The deal also reportedly suggests postponing nuclear negotiations to a later stage as tensions remain unresolved.

    Uncertainty Over US Response

    It remains unclear whether President Donald Trump will accept the proposal, as his administration continues to insist that Iran must halt uranium enrichment as part of any agreement.

    Trump has previously stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain under pressure until Iran reaches a broader deal with the United States.

    Strategic Waterway at Centre of Conflict

    The Strait of Hormuz has remained a key flashpoint in the ongoing conflict involving Iran and US-Israel aligned forces since hostilities escalated earlier this year.

    Iran’s earlier restrictions on the waterway disrupted global oil supply, leading to price increases and energy conservation measures in several countries.

    The US blockade, meanwhile, aims to restrict Iran’s oil exports and limit its access to revenue.

    Global Impact and Rising Casualties

    The wider conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths across Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and parts of the Gulf region, with both military and civilian casualties reported.

    Efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution have so far stalled despite continued backchannel engagements.

    Trump to Review Situation in Security Meeting

    President Donald Trump is expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Monday with senior national security and foreign policy officials to assess the latest developments and possible next steps.

     

  • Trump Rules Out Nuclear Strike on Iran After Earlier Threats Raise Tension

    United States President Donald Trump has ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran, days after earlier threats raised fears of a possible escalation in the conflict.

    Trump dismisses nuclear option

    Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, Trump said conventional military strength was sufficient and there was no need for nuclear deployment.

    “No, I wouldn’t use it,” he said.

    “Why would I use a nuclear weapon when we’ve… in a very conventional way, decimated them without it?”

    He added that nuclear weapons should never be used by any country.

    Shift from earlier warning

    The statement marks a shift from Trump’s earlier remarks on April 7, when he warned that a “whole civilisation will die tonight,” a comment that sparked global concern.

    Hours after that threat, however, the US agreed to a ceasefire in the conflict involving Israel, a truce that has since been extended.

    Vance comments clarified

    During the crisis, Vice President JD Vance had suggested the US could deploy weapons “not previously used,” fuelling speculation about nuclear options.

    The White House later clarified that his statement did not refer to nuclear weapons.

    Vance was also involved in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme, though talks did not produce a breakthrough.

    Focus remains on Iran’s nuclear programme

    Reiterating his position, Trump said the US priority is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

    “We want an Iran without a nuclear weapon… that’s going to try and blow up one of our cities or the entire Middle East,” he said.

    Iran has repeatedly denied pursuing nuclear weapons, while the International Atomic Energy Agency has said an atomic bomb was not imminent before the conflict.

    Global context and policy stance

    The United States remains the only country to have used nuclear weapons in warfare, during World War II in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

    Although Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons, it has not officially confirmed its arsenal.

    Trump’s position contrasts with longstanding US defence policy, which keeps the option of nuclear use under extreme circumstances and has resisted calls for a “no first use” pledge.

    The development is drawing attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as global tensions and nuclear policy debates continue.

     

  • Iran-Linked Tankers Bypass US Hormuz Blockade as Trump Insists Pressure Is Working

    At least 34 Iran-linked tankers have reportedly bypassed the United States blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh questions over its effectiveness even as US President Donald Trump insists the pressure is hitting Iran’s economy hard.

    Tankers slip past blockade

    A report by the Financial Times said dozens of vessels linked to Iran moved through the strategic waterway in recent days despite the blockade imposed on April 13.

    Out of the 34 ships, at least 19 tankers exited the Gulf while 15 others entered from the Arabian Sea heading toward Iran.

    Among those that left, six were confirmed to be carrying Iranian crude oil, with an estimated 10.7 million barrels valued at roughly $910 million based on discounted pricing.

    Evasion tactics exposed

    One of the vessels, Dorena, reportedly switched off its tracking transponder before passing through the Strait.

    It later carried out a ship-to-ship oil transfer off Malaysia to disguise the origin of the cargo.

    Other sanctioned vessels, including Murlikishan and Alicia, were also said to have entered the Gulf despite restrictions.

    US claims success despite gaps

    Trump, however, maintained that the United States “totally controls” the Strait of Hormuz and described the blockade as a “tremendous success.”

    He said the restrictions would remain until a final agreement is reached with Iran.

    “Iran is collapsing financially… They want the Strait of Hormuz opened immediately,” Trump wrote, claiming Tehran is losing up to $500 million daily.

    US Central Command also said American forces had directed 28 vessels to turn back since the blockade began, though only a few ships have been detained or boarded so far.

    Tensions deepen in strategic waters

    Iran, on its part, said control of the Strait has “reverted to its previous state,” adding that vessels now require clearance from its naval forces.

    The situation has further escalated with reports of attacks on ships in the waterway, underscoring growing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

    US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the blockade targets Iran’s key revenue streams, warning that any entity aiding Iranian oil trade risks sanctions.

    Global concerns rise

    The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route for oil, and disruptions have continued to raise concerns over energy markets and international trade.

    The unfolding developments are dominating global headlines and feature prominently in latest Nigerian news, as well as breaking news Nigeria today, given their impact on global oil prices and economic stability.

  • Iran Tightens Grip On Strait Of Hormuz Amid Standoff With US Over Port Blockade

    Iran’s elite military force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has announced renewed control over the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with the United States amid an ongoing dispute over port blockades.

    The development comes despite earlier signals of a partial reopening, creating fresh uncertainty around one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

    What happened

    Iranian state media reported on Saturday that control of the Strait of Hormuz had “returned to its previous state,” with the Revolutionary Guard insisting it would determine which vessels are allowed to pass.

    This follows conflicting messages from Iranian officials, after the country’s foreign minister had earlier indicated that the strait would remain open to commercial shipping during a ceasefire window.

    US position remains firm

    US President Donald Trump said the naval blockade on Iranian ports would continue until negotiations between both countries are fully concluded.

    He maintained that the strait was “open and ready for business,” but made it clear that pressure on Iran would not ease until a final agreement is reached.

    Conflicting signals from Iran

    The situation has exposed apparent divisions within Iran’s leadership, with the government signalling openness while the military adopts a more assertive stance.

    The Revolutionary Guard’s position suggests tighter control over maritime access, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supply.

    Talks and regional tensions

    Trump downplayed differences between both countries, expressing optimism about a possible deal, including cooperation on Iran’s enriched uranium programme, a claim Tehran has rejected.

    He also indicated that fresh talks could take place soon, with reports suggesting a possible meeting in Pakistan, although Iranian officials have cast doubt on the likelihood of progress.

    Meanwhile, developments in Lebanon appear to have stabilised, with Trump stating that Israel would halt further strikes, a condition previously linked to Iran’s willingness to re-engage in negotiations.

  • Iran Embassy Shares AI Video “Striking” Trump After Messiah Image Backlash

    An Iranian diplomatic mission has released an AI-generated video depicting a religious figure confronting US President Donald Trump, escalating tensions after backlash over an earlier image he shared portraying himself in a Christ-like role.

    What sparked it

    The controversy began after Trump posted an image on Truth Social showing himself in a messianic-style pose, which drew criticism from religious groups and online users who described it as inappropriate.

    The image quickly went viral, with many accusing the US president of blasphemy and drawing parallels with religious warnings about false messianic figures.

    The AI video response

    In response, the Iranian Embassy shared a dramatized AI-generated clip showing a figure representing Jesus confronting Trump.

    In the video, the figure declares, “Your reckoning has come,” before striking him and casting him into a fiery pit.

    The clip has since circulated widely, further fueling reactions across social media and political circles.

    Trump defends post

    Reacting to the backlash, Trump dismissed the interpretation of the image, insisting it was misunderstood.

    “It wasn’t a depiction. It was me,” he said, explaining that the image was intended to portray him as a doctor.

    “It was supposed to be me as a doctor making people better… and I do make people better,” he added.

    Global reactions

    The controversy has drawn responses beyond the US, including from Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, who condemned Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV.

    “I condemn the insult… the desecration of Jesus… is not acceptable,” he said.

    The issue has also reignited tensions between Trump and the Pope after the US president criticised the pontiff’s leadership.

    Pope responds

    Pope Leo XIV declined to escalate the situation but reaffirmed his stance on global peace and moral responsibility.

    “I don’t want to get into a debate with him,” the Pope said, stressing that religious messages should not be misused.

    He added that he would continue to speak out on war, peace, and global dialogue.

    Wider tensions

    The development comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran, following weeks of conflict in the Middle East.

    The latest exchange signals a growing mix of political, religious, and digital narratives shaping the ongoing standoff.

  • Iran Rejects Trump’s 15-point Peace Plan, Issues Counter-demands

    Iran has rejected a United States ceasefire proposal and countered with its own five-point conditions for ending the ongoing war, dealing a blow to diplomatic efforts being quietly advanced by the Trump administration.

    Iran’s state broadcaster Press TV, citing a senior political-security official, confirmed on Wednesday that Tehran had rejected the American proposal. “Iran will end the war when it decides to do so and when its own conditions are met,” the official said. “No negotiations will be held prior to that.”

    What was in Trump’s proposal

    The US proposal, transmitted to Tehran through Pakistan, called on Iran to commit to never pursuing nuclear weapons and to dismantle three of its main nuclear facilities, Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. It also sought a halt to uranium enrichment, a transfer of enriched material to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the suspension of ballistic missile production, an end to financial support for regional armed groups, including Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

    In exchange, the proposal offered a full lifting of international sanctions on Iran and US assistance in developing Iran’s civilian nuclear programme.

    The White House, however, stopped short of confirming the full details. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said there were “elements of truth” in media reports but cautioned that some accounts were “not entirely factual.”

    Iran’s five conditions

    Iran’s counter-proposal, published through state media, set out five conditions: a complete halt to attacks and assassinations by its enemies; concrete guarantees that no further war would be imposed on the Islamic Republic; compensation for war damages; a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts, including Iran-aligned groups; and recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

    Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari added that Iran plans to charge tolls on ships passing through the strategic waterway, saying: “The authority to issue passage permits is ours.”

    Iran’s foreign minister contradicts state media

    Despite the public rejection, mixed signals emerged from Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media that the US proposal was still being reviewed by top authorities in Tehran, and that an exchange of messages between the two countries via mediators “does not mean negotiations with the US.”

    Trump’s position

    President Trump told reporters on Tuesday that Iranians “would like to make a deal” and had “agreed they will never have a nuclear weapon.” Iran denies any such agreement and insists its nuclear programme is for civilian use only.

    Background

    The conflict began on 28 February 2026 when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting key military officials and facilities. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in the strikes, with his son Mojtaba Khamenei later chosen as his successor. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on Israel, American military bases in the Middle East, and Gulf states, while also moving to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.

    Diplomatic efforts continue through third-party intermediaries, including Pakistan and Turkey. The UN Human Rights Commissioner has warned that the conflict risks drawing in countries on an unprecedented global scale, urging influential states to use all available means to help end the fighting. RNN.NG will continue to update this story as developments unfold.