Category: PM News

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration remains resolute in confronting the underlying factors fuelling insecurity across Nigeria, pledging sustained investment in policing and national security.

He made the commitment during the passing-out parade of 1,187 newly commissioned Assistant Superintendents of Police at the Nigeria Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State. The President was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

Addressing the cadets, Tinubu noted that the country has placed immense trust in them at a critical moment in its security trajectory. He urged the new officers to approach their duties with patriotism, professionalism and an unwavering willingness to defend the nation, even at great personal risk.

Tinubu praised the academy for what he described as significant improvements in training standards, instructional quality and infrastructure, saying the institution had grown into a centre capable of producing disciplined, ethical and well-prepared police personnel.

He emphasised that the government would continue to prioritise modern training, adequate equipment and improved welfare across all security agencies in order to strengthen their operational capacity.

As we enter a new phase in our security strategy, it is vital that our police officers possess the competence, values and resilience required to confront the complex threats of our time,” he said. He reminded the cadets that they have a duty not only to uphold law and order, but also to protect human rights and maintain the trust of the public.

The President encouraged them to be guided by integrity and fairness in their interactions with citizens, noting that their conduct would greatly influence the public perception of the Police Force.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant of the Police Academy, AIG Patrick Atayero, urged the officers to embody the discipline and commitment instilled in them during their training. He told them that they now carry a “sacred responsibility” as defenders of justice and guardians of public peace.

Atayero also noted the academy’s ongoing transition towards a more comprehensive academic system, highlighting expansions in facilities, programme offerings and plans to introduce postgraduate degrees and diploma programmes to further strengthen professional capacity in policing.

The Pan African Scrabble Association (PANASA) has sent shockwaves through the continent with the unveiling of its 2025 Player Awards, introducing two brand-new badges that instantly raise the stakes for Africa’s top word warriors.

In a dramatic shake-up of the honours system, PANASA has rolled out the Elite Veteran (EV) badge, reserved for battle-tested giants who consistently cracked the Top 10 across the first seven Africa Scrabble Championships.

No shortcuts. No sentiment. And no room for players already crowned with higher titles like EXP, GM or CC.

But the fireworks didn’t stop there.

In a move that electrifies the youth ranks, PANASA announced the Junior Continental Champion (JCC) badge, a backdated honour for the U-15 and U-19 kings and queens of the Africa Youth Scrabble Championship since 2023.

Once earned, players hold it proudly, until they rise to even greater heights.

The Scrabble community is bracing for more details, with PANASA teasing updates on criteria, timelines, and official rollouts in the coming days.

One thing is certain, PANASA isn’t just honouring champions it’s rewriting the continent’s Scrabble hierarchy with bold strokes.

Google, through its charitable branch Google.org, has pledged N3 billion to help Nigeria grow its digital skills and make the online environment safer.

The funds will support artificial intelligence (AI) training and cybersecurity initiatives through five Nigerian organizations: FATE Foundation, African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, African Technology Forum, Junior Achievement Africa, and CyberSafe Foundation.

The program aims to build AI talent by introducing advanced AI programs in universities to equip students and lecturers with modern skills, while also organizing innovation challenges to turn learning into real-world AI solutions.

At the same time, it focuses on improving digital safety by expanding programs that teach young people safe online practices and helping public institutions strengthen cybersecurity to protect important data.

Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani, said the partnership supports Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and will help the country create a skilled workforce to compete globally. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s goal of creating one million digital jobs and could unlock $15 billion from AI by 2030.

Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, said the investment empowers people with AI skills and ensures a safer digital environment.

This builds on Google’s previous efforts in Nigeria, including the 2023 Skills Sprint program, which trained over 20,000 participants and helped more than 3,500 find jobs or start businesses in tech.

By Tolulope Oke

Is Pope Leo XIV stuck in Turkey? Not exactly, but his trip hit an unexpected challenge on Saturday after urgent safety checks grounded his plane in Istanbul.

The delay came after Airbus flagged a potential software issue affecting A320 aircraft worldwide, forcing technicians to rush in and make sure the pontiff’s flight to Beirut on Sunday, is safe. The warning followed concerns that solar radiation could interfere with the planes’ computer systems.

According to Daily Mail, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that ITA Airways flew a technician and a critical component to Istanbul to fix the issue on the Pope’s plane. He said the aircraft would only depart after it is confirmed safe.

The disruption comes weeks after an Airbus A320 operated by JetBlue dropped suddenly in Florida, injuring 15 passengers. Investigations linked the incident to a software vulnerability, prompting the wider safety notice.

Despite the hiccup, Pope Leo continued his engagements in Istanbul. He visited the historic Blue Mosque but did not pray inside it. This contradicted earlier Vatican guidance that said he would observe a moment of silent prayer. The reference was later removed without explanation.

Imam Asgin Tunca, who welcomed the Pope, said he invited him to pray, calling the mosque “Allah’s house,” but the pontiff chose silence instead. The Vatican said he experienced the visit “with deep respect.”

The Airbus alert caused ripple effects across Europe. Airlines, including Wizz Air and EasyJet, warned passengers of possible delays as checks continued. British Airways, Aer Lingus and Jet2 said only a small number of their aircraft were affected.

Pope Leo is expected to leave Istanbul for Beirut on Sunday once technicians clear his aircraft for flight.

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army has intensified nationwide counterterrorism operations following a deadly attack in Kebbi State that claimed the lives of three Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel.

The coordinated raids, launched across multiple theatres within the last 24 hours, also led to the rescue of 21 kidnapped victims and the disruption of several criminal activities.

A senior military source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA responded swiftly after terrorists ambushed an NIS checkpoint in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi.

According to the source, the attackers opened fire on officers manning the checkpoint, killing three Immigration personnel and burning operational vehicles before fleeing the scene.

“Troops pursued the terrorists immediately after the attack, but they had already withdrawn into nearby forests,” the source said.

“The Army has now reinforced deployments in the general area to prevent further incursions.”

Amid the heightened operations in the North-West, troops recorded major breakthroughs in Zamfara and Kebbi.

In Maradun, soldiers from 1 Brigade repelled an attack on Baigasuwa community, rescuing trapped residents, although four civilians sustained gunshot injuries.

Troops also rescued five persons and a baby along the UnashiDoka road in Danko Wasagu LGA, after the terrorists abandoned their captives upon sighting advancing soldiers.

In the North-Central region, troops of Operation MESA operating along the KogiKwara corridor freed four kidnapped victims during a gunfight with insurgents at Konan Leda, Lokoja.

“Following the exchange of fire, eleven additional victims managed to escape as the terrorists fled,” the source added. Items recovered included two motorcycles and a radio set.

Another victim was rescued by troops in the Kwali axis of the Federal Capital Territory as part of sustained clearance operations along key routes notorious for abductions.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, continues to tighten its grip on crude oil theft. A combined team in Eleme, Rivers State, uncovered 350 bags of stolen crude oil, estimated at 10,500 litres, while a separate patrol in Bonny recovered theft equipment abandoned by fleeing suspects, including hoses, a Yamaha engine and several jerricans.

The source said other theatres, particularly those under Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East and the ongoing Desert Sanity IV, reported no major incidents but continued aggressive patrols and clearance missions.

He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to protect civilians nationwide.

“Troops remain on heightened alert to deny terrorists and criminals any freedom of movement,” he said. “The attacks on security personnel will not deter ongoing operations.”

Abeokuta came alive on Friday as the Ogun State capital welcomed hundreds of para-athletes for the historic debut of the West Africa ‘Zone A and B’ Para Games.

The event, which marks a new chapter for disability sports in the region, is drawing competitors, officials, and fans from across West Africa and beyond.

According to the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Victor Achakpo, more than 700 athletes are participating in 12 sporting events, with Nigeria fielding a contingent of 190 competitors. He noted that after several postponements, all logistical arrangements–accommodation, transport, venues, medicals, security, and feeding–have been fully secured to guarantee a smooth tournament.

Achakpo expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Ogun State Government, and other partners for their commitment to making the maiden edition a reality. He added that 16 West African nations, along with invited teams from DR Congo and Cameroon, are already in Abeokuta for what he promised would be a safe, fair, and memorable competition.

“The whole of West Africa is represented,” he said. “We are ready, and Ogun State is safe. Sports unites us–especially para sports.”

President of the Paralympic Committee of Nigeria, Sunday Odebode, also praised Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for hosting the landmark event and commended NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko for ensuring Nigeria secured the hosting rights.

Lagos CP vows action against GBV as female officers mark By Deborah Akpede

Late Divisional Police Officer of Festac in Lagos, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye and other female officers who had lost their lives in service were honoured on Saturday as female Police Officers took to the streets on Saturday to raise awareness on the ills of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in celebration of 70 years of women in policing.

The awareness walk highlighted the achievements of female officers and underscored the police command’s ongoing commitment to protecting citizens and promoting gender equality within the force.

Speaking at the event, Lagos Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, praised female officers for their contributions and pledged greater institutional support.

Olohundare commended female officers who had lost their lives in service, including CSP Matilda Ngbaronye, whose tenure, he noted, was marked by significant reduction of crime in her area.

The Police boss noted that GBV remains a serious criminal issue that will be investigated and prosecuted, urging both women and men to speak out and take action.

“I will continue to encourage women to speak out, and I will continue to encourage men to understand that justice belongs to them too.

“GBV is not an urban issue or women’s issue, it is a criminal matter,” he said.

Jimoh acknowledged the challenges in tackling domestic and sexual violence across the country, calling for collaboration between police officers, civil society, and the public to prevent abuse and create safer communities.

The commissioner also highlighted the increasing presence of women in leadership positions, including several serving as Divisional Police Officers (DPOs).

“Some women in the force often demonstrate exceptional performance, sometimes surpassing their male counterparts.

“I encourage more women to take up leadership roles, ” he said.

The police boss said that the awareness walk not only celebrated 70 years of women in policing, but also served as a public reminder of the command’s dedication to fighting GBV and promoting inclusivity, professionalism, and accountability within the force.

The Executive Director of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, urged female officers to report any form of abuse and emphasised that violence can affect anyone, regardless of profession or class.

She reaffirmed DSVA’s partnership with the police in promoting ethics, accountability, and support for victims within the force.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration, Mrs Mary Anyim, expressed pride in how far women had advanced within the Lagos Command.

She highlighted the growing number of women leading key units and encouraged younger officers to remain dedicated, citing her 25-year journey as an example of hard work, sacrifice, and excellence.

Also, Area Commanders Mrs Veronica Ameh (Area G) and Mrs Sholla Omilade (Area H), reflected on the courage, resilience, and dedication of female officers.

They noted the challenges of balancing family and career, described policing as a universal and rewarding profession, and encouraged young girls to consider a career in law enforcement.

They urged the public to recognise the challenges officers faced and emphasised that their primary goal was the protection of every citizen.

(NAN)

By Ayox Ojo

Remains of two Cameroonian women identified as Mrs. Bognou Alice and her niece, Miss Sandra.who were allegedly kidnapped in Anambra have been recovered in the Omambala River, Anambra West Local Government Area of the state.

The bodies of the women was discovered by operatives from Anambra Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, in collaboration with professional divers and local volunteers after intensive search on Saturday, the spokesperson for Anambra Police Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, stated in a statement on Saturday.

Ikenga added that the family of the deceased have identified both bodies.

He also recalled the two suspects identified as Nonso Augustine Akpeh and Kingsley Akpeh have been arrested over the kidnapping of the women and are assisting operatives with vital information in the investigation.

He noted that three kidnapped Cameroonian women were reported kidnapped in the state to the police.

Ikenga, in the statement said, “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to update the public on the ongoing investigation into the alleged kidnapping of three Cameroonian women in the state.

“Recall that police investigators had earlier arrested two suspects: Nonso Augustine Akpeh ‘M’, 37 years old, and Kingsley Akpeh ‘M’, 44 years old, who are currently assisting operatives with vital information.

“In continuation of these efforts, on the evening of 28th November 2025, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, working in collaboration with professional river divers and local volunteers, conducted an intensive search along the Omambala River in Anambra West Local Government Area.

“During the operation, the team recovered two (2) female decomposed bodies believed to be victims of the kidnapping incident. The operatives immediately contacted the family of the kidnapped victims, who positively identified the recovered bodies as his wife, Mrs. Bognou Alice and his niece Miss Sandra.

“Both bodies have been deposited in a mortuary for further examination and necessary investigative procedures.”

Ikeng added that Anambra Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends.

He added that Orutugu has also directed intensified search efforts to recover the remaining missing victim.

“The CP has also directed all units involved to strengthen operational activities aimed at apprehending the third suspect, Uchenna Nicholas Mmadu, who is currently on the run, to ensure he faces the full weight of the law.

“The Commissioner further reassures the public of the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives, maintaining security, and delivering justice,” the statement concluded.

Anambra is one of the states in the eastern part of Nigeria noted for kidnapping incidents usually attributed by the police to the outlawed terrorist group IPOB and its militant arm, ESN.

However, IPOB usually rejected the claim.

By Tolulope Oke

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Jazzman Olofin, has clarified long-held misconceptions about his hit track Raise da Roof, insisting the popular song was never a remix of Chief Adewale Ayuba’s classic, Bubble.

In a statement shared on his social media page, the veteran artiste said he felt the need to correct the narrative for the sake of music history and to guide younger Nigerians who may not have encountered past interviews.

Jazzman explained that Ayuba only added the iconic line “It’s bubbling ko maa bubble” from his earlier album Bubble during his feature on Raise da Roof, a contribution that likely sparked the widespread belief that the hit song was a remake of Ayuba’s classic.

He stressed that he wrote the rest of the chorus and the first two verses, while Ayuba co-wrote his own verse on the track.

The singer also revealed that Raise da Roof was not the first creative collaboration between him and the Fuji star. According to him, he had previously written another song for his own project, but Ayuba loved it so much that it ended up on the Fuji icon’s album Gun Shot, with Jazzman also featuring on the track alongside Lexzy Doo of the former duo X-Appeal.

“Most people don’t know, but I actually entered the game first as a songwriter. Singing came later,” Jazzman said.

He added: “I invited Chief Adewale Ayuba to feature on Raise da Roof, and he decided to add the line from Bubble. The rest of the chorus was written by me. I wrote the first and second verses, and Ayuba co-wrote his verse.”

Jazzman maintained that the clarity was necessary to ensure proper crediting and to preserve the true history behind one of the defining hits of the early 2000s.

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Troops of the Nigerian Army early Saturday have foiled a massive attack on Chibok community, Borno State, by more than 300 terrorists after over two hours gun-battle with the insurgents.

The terrorists who stormed Chibok at about 2:50 a.m. from multiple directions were repelled in what analysts described as a showcase of gallantry and tactical discipline in the heat of battle by Nigerian troops.

A credible military source said the battle-ready troops of the 28 Task Force Brigade, backed by ambush teams and observation posts on surrounding mountains, picked up early movement of the terrorists and engaged them instantly.

According to him, the soldiers held their ground for over two hours in a fierce firefight that forced the terrorists to abandon their push and begin a chaotic withdrawal towards the Azir axis at about 5:00 a.m.

The sources said the 25 Brigade was immediately tasked to mount ambush positions ahead of the Azir Bridge to intercept the fleeing insurgents, with movements guided by a Nigerian Army UAV.

“Although the terrorists scattered into several directions on sensing the approach, troops successfully disrupted their escape.

“No soldier or equipment was lost in the encounter”, a development some officials described as a testament to the combat readiness and resilience of the troops.

“Exploitation operations were ongoing at the time of filing this report,” he said.