1. Nigerian Army Named Africa’s Best Counter-Terrorism Force for 2025

The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025 by African Security Watch in recognition of its achievements in combating terrorism and violent extremism across the continent. The award was presented to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja after it was earlier received on behalf of the Army during a ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia.

The recognition reflects the Army’s achievements in joint military operations, intelligence-led campaigns, civil-military cooperation and capacity building, which have weakened terrorist groups and strengthened security in affected regions. Lt. Gen. Shaibu dedicated the award to officers and soldiers who have paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to improving its operational strategies. The honour comes as the military expands its operational structure with new divisions, a development expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

2. Police Arrest Osun SSG, Five Others Over Alleged Vote-Buying

Operatives of the Osun State Police Command have arrested the Secretary to the Osun State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, and five others during a raid on a residence linked to the SSG in Oroki Estate, Osogbo. Police said they recovered ₦4.81 million in cash, Permanent Voter Cards, a voter register and other election-related materials during the operation, which followed intelligence reports about a suspected criminal gang.

The arrests have heightened political tension ahead of the Osun governorship election, with the state government describing the operation as illegal while police continue investigations into possible Electoral Act violations, including alleged vote-buying. Political parties and election observers have called for a transparent investigation to protect the credibility of the poll.

3. ADC Asks Tinubu to Focus on Terrorists Instead of Political Opponents

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his declaration that he is ready to “fight to the finish” against political opponents, urging him to channel the same determination toward defeating terrorists, bandits and kidnappers troubling the country.

The party argued that Nigerians expect the President to prioritise security rather than partisan politics, insisting that improved governance and performance would carry more weight than political rhetoric. The statement comes as opposition parties continue positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general election, with insecurity remaining one of the country’s biggest concerns.

4. Nigeria Confronts South Africa Over Killings of Citizens

The Federal Government has formally protested to South Africa over the recurring killings of Nigerians, revealing that at least 98 citizens have lost their lives in mob attacks, hate crimes and alleged extra-judicial incidents since 2022. The concerns were raised during meetings in Abuja with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy.

The latest killings have renewed diplomatic tensions between both countries, with Nigeria demanding justice, better protection for its citizens and concrete measures to end xenophobic attacks. South African authorities pledged continued collaboration and prosecution of offenders, but the issue continues to raise concerns among Nigerians living in the country.

5. ExxonMobil Declares Force Majeure on Erha Crude Exports

Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL), an affiliate of ExxonMobil, has declared force majeure on crude oil exports from the Erha deepwater field after damage to a floating buoy connected to its FPSO facility. The field has a production capacity of about 200,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

The disruption could affect Nigeria’s crude oil output, government revenue and foreign exchange earnings at a time when efforts are underway to increase production. The company said repair work is ongoing while stakeholders have been notified, with industry experts warning that infrastructure challenges remain a major concern for the country’s oil sector.

6. Tinubu Unveils $3.05 Billion Poverty Reduction Programmes

President Bola Tinubu has unveiled five major programmes valued at about $3.05 billion to tackle poverty, improve healthcare, strengthen education and support vulnerable communities across Nigeria. The initiatives form part of the administration’s broader strategy to reduce hardship and promote long-term economic development.

Government officials said the programmes would focus on improving living conditions through targeted interventions, while state governments are expected to play key roles in implementation. Although supporters welcomed the announcement, critics questioned funding arrangements and the government’s ability to deliver results amid rising inflation and economic pressures.

7. Scores Killed as Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters Clash

Fresh fighting has broken out between Boko Haram (JAS) and rival ISWAP fighters in the Lake Chad region, leaving scores of insurgents dead according to security reports. The clashes are believed to be linked to internal rivalries and territorial disputes between the two extremist groups.

Security analysts believe the infighting could weaken the insurgents’ operational strength, although there are concerns that the violence could spread into surrounding communities. The development comes as Nigerian security forces continue operations against terrorist groups across the North-East.

8. Peller and Jarvis Tie the Knot in Civil Wedding

Popular Nigerian content creator Peller has officially married fellow content creator Jarvis in a civil wedding ceremony that has generated widespread excitement on social media. Photos and videos from the event have continued to trend, attracting congratulatory messages from fans and celebrities.

The wedding has once again highlighted the growing influence of digital creators within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Many social media users have described the ceremony as another milestone for the country’s online content creation community.

9. Nigerian Army Appoints Commanders for Four New Divisions

Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has approved the appointment of General Officers Commanding (GOCs) for the four newly established Army divisions created to strengthen military operations across the country.

The appointments form part of the ongoing restructuring of the Nigerian Army aimed at improving operational efficiency and expanding security coverage. Military authorities believe the new divisions will improve responses to terrorism, banditry and other security threats across multiple regions.

10. Oshiomhole Criticises Umahi Over Federal Roads in Edo, Delta

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has criticised the Minister of Works, David Umahi, over what he described as the poor state of federal roads in Edo and Delta states. The former Edo State governor urged the minister to pay greater attention to critical infrastructure projects affecting the South-South region.

His comments have added to ongoing discussions about road infrastructure and project execution across Nigeria. Residents and stakeholders continue to demand faster completion of major federal road projects to improve transportation, economic activities and public safety.