Category: News

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Tinubu Approves Expansion of Nigerian Army to 12 Divisions, 28,000 New Recruits

President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and authorised the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

The approval, announced by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the Armed Forces’ operational capacity and addressing the country’s evolving security challenges.

According to the Presidency, the expansion forms part of a broader military modernisation programme that includes the acquisition of critical military equipment, enhanced troop welfare, improved operational readiness, and continuous support for force modernisation.

Onanuga stated that the additional divisions would improve command and control, decentralise operational decision-making, strengthen border security, protect critical national infrastructure, boost counter-insurgency operations, and ensure faster responses to security threats nationwide.

Under the new structure, the Nigerian Army will establish four additional divisions headquartered in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City, bringing the total number of divisions to 12 strategically located formations across the country.

The restructuring will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, involving the establishment of the 5, 9, and 10 Divisions alongside the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September 2026. The second phase, which includes the creation of the 83 Division and further restructuring, is scheduled for completion by December 2026.

President Tinubu also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, as well as officers and personnel of the Nigerian Army for their dedication to safeguarding the nation.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the Armed Forces remain well-equipped, highly motivated, and fully prepared to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and guarantee the safety of all citizens.

The 12 Army divisions will be headquartered in Kaduna, Ibadan, Jos, Makurdi, Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Ilorin, Jalingo, Lagos, Enugu, and Benin City, with each division assigned responsibility for designated states across the federation.

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South Korea’s President receives Daduut as Nigeria’s Ambassador

Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut has formally assumed office as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea after presenting her Letter of Credence to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House in Seoul.

The credential presentation ceremony, held on Wednesday, saw President Lee receive letters of credence from eight newly appointed ambassadors, officially accrediting them to begin their diplomatic assignments in South Korea.

Daduut in a statement made available to newsmen reads that she was among ambassadors from Brazil, El Salvador, Colombia, Laos, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Tanzania and Nigeria who were formally received by the South Korean leader.

Under diplomatic protocol, newly appointed ambassadors are required to present letters of credence issued by their respective Heads of State to the host country’s President before officially commencing their diplomatic duties.

With the presentation of her credentials, Daduut is now fully accredited as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Korea.

Her appointment is expected to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and South Korea, with greater emphasis on trade, investment, technology transfer, education, cultural exchange and other areas of strategic cooperation.

President Lee, during the ceremony, welcomed the new envoys and expressed optimism that their appointments would further deepen bilateral cooperation between South Korea and their respective countries.

Speaking shortly after the ceremony, Daduut pledged to deepen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea, saying her mission would focus on promoting Nigeria’s national interest while expanding mutually beneficial partnerships between the two countries.

She also assured Nigerians resident in South Korea of an open-door policy at the embassy, promising to protect their welfare and encourage stronger people-to-people relations, educational exchanges and business collaborations.

The ambassador expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in her, pledging to justify the appointment through dedicated service and active diplomacy aimed at attracting greater Korean investment, technology and innovation to support Nigeria’s economic development.

She earlier met with Kim Young Chae, President of the Korea-Africa Foundation, where both sides exchanged ideas on strengthening collaboration between Nigeria and South Korea in key areas of mutual interest.

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First Lady Donates ₦2 Billion to Boost Akwete Weaving Heritage in Abia

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the development and preservation of the renowned Akwete fabric, a traditional hand-woven textile indigenous to Akwete community in Ukwa East Local Government Area.

Mrs. Tinubu announced the donation on Tuesday during her visit to Aba, where she joined efforts to celebrate and promote the centuries-old Akwete weaving tradition.

She said the fund would be used to develop the Akwete production centre, create employment opportunities, strengthen the local economy, and preserve the cultural heritage for future generations.

Describing Akwete fabric as a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural identity, the First Lady praised the craftsmanship of the women who weave the textile using cotton, raffia, and silk on traditional vertical looms, producing distinctive geometric patterns and vibrant colours.

She stressed the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, noting that culture defines a people’s identity and should be passed from one generation to another.

“The Akwete weaving tradition is a sacred craft carried out with love, patience, and endurance. It is important that the women continue to pass this knowledge to younger generations,” she said.

Mrs. Tinubu also urged Nigerian youths to embrace their cultural heritage by proudly wearing traditional attire, saying African fashion remains an important symbol of identity.

Addressing the women of Akwete, she assured them of her commitment to promoting the fabric nationwide and called on prominent sons and daughters of the South-East to support efforts to preserve the unique heritage.

She further pledged that if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected in 2027, she would wear an Akwete-made wrapper and blouse for the presidential inauguration ceremony.

Governor Alex Otti and the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, expressed appreciation for the donation, describing it as a major boost that would transform Akwete fabric production and strengthen the local economy.

Governor Otti said his administration had been working with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to reposition the industry, remove production challenges, and integrate modern technology to improve output and global competitiveness.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, praised the women behind the Akwete weaving tradition, describing them as the backbone of the community, while pledging his support towards the construction of a dedicated weaving centre.

In recognition of her contribution to the preservation of the state’s cultural heritage and her support for Nigerian women, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred on the First Lady the traditional title “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (Pride of Abia Women).

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Obi Signed One-Term Presidency Agreement With Me, NDC – Kwankwaso

The Vice-Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has disclosed that the party’s 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, signed a formal agreement to serve only one term if elected president.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Kwankwaso said the agreement forms a key part of the alliance established within the NDC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, he is confident Obi will honour the pact, describing the former Anambra State governor as a principled and dependable politician committed to Nigeria’s progress.

“I personally believe him. Based on what I now know about him, I don’t think he will renege. I don’t think he will change his mind when the time comes. We are all gentlemen, even though we have accepted to put it on paper,” Kwankwaso said.

He explained that the agreement provides for power to return to the North after a four-year administration, stressing that the arrangement was reached collectively by party leaders.

“We will work together as a group, as a party, as friends and brothers, involving everyone to ensure that after our four-year term in 2031, the presidency returns to the North. That is the general agreement,” he added.

Kwankwaso also revealed that his perception of Obi had changed significantly since the 2023 elections, describing him as a serious politician with genuine concern for Nigeria’s future.

“I now know that Peter is a very serious politician. He has this country in mind and is someone who can be relied upon,” he said.

He noted that both leaders discovered they shared similar policy objectives after comparing their development blueprints, making it easier for them to forge a political partnership.

According to Kwankwaso, the similarities in their vision and mission for the country laid the foundation for their alliance within the NDC.

Obi has on several occasions maintained that he would serve only one term if elected president in 2027, insisting that the pledge reflects his commitment to the zoning principle and the need to promote national unity, fairness and political stability by ensuring power returns to the North in 2031.

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INEC Recruitment 2026 Application is OPEN Nationwide – Apply Now

Requirements:

  • Nigerian citizen, not above 35 years of age
  • Qualification varies by cadre – NCE minimum, BSc/HND, or Bachelor’s + Master’s for professional roles
  • Relevant professional certification required for professional cadre (NBA, COREN, ICAN, MDCN, CPN, etc.)
  • NYSC Certificate, Exemption, or Exclusion letter
  • Valid State of Origin certificate, medically fit, no criminal record
  • Willing to work anywhere in Nigeria

Available Positions:

  • Lawyers, Clinical Officers, IT Officers, Engineers, Accountants (GL 09, 10 & 12)
  • Administrative Officer II / Registration Area Officer (GL 08)
  • Executive Officer / Assistant Registration Area Officer (GL 07)

Apply: https://recruitment.inecnigeria.org

Deadline: 27th July, 2026 (Window: 20th – 27th July only)

Know someone qualified who should apply before this window closes? Share this to them right now.

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Court Grants Miyetti Allah President Bello Bodejo N2 Billion Bail

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to the National President of Miyetti Allah Kauta Hore, Bello Bodejo, in the sum of N2 billion over alleged money laundering charges.

Delivering the ruling on Monday, Justice Inyang Ekwo ordered Bodejo to provide two sureties in the same amount. The court directed that one surety must be an Abuja resident with three years’ tax clearance, while the second must own landed property in Abuja valued at N2 billion.

Justice Ekwo also ordered the defendant to surrender his international passport to the court registrar and prohibited him from travelling outside Nigeria without the court’s approval.

The judge held that the offences against Bodejo are bailable under the law and exercised the court’s discretion in granting his application.

The case was adjourned to October 5, 6 and 7 for the commencement of trial.

Bodejo was remanded in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on July 9 after being arraigned on alleged money laundering charges.

The EFCC, through its counsel, Wahab Shittu (SAN), filed the charges on June 25, naming Bodejo as the sole defendant. He pleaded not guilty to all counts when they were read in court.

Defence counsel Ahmed Raji (SAN) urged the court to grant bail, arguing that the alleged offences are bailable under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). However, the prosecution opposed the application before the court eventually ruled in Bodejo’s favour.

Source: NAN

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46-Year-Old Senegal’s President Faye Elected ECOWAS Chairman

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has been elected as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), taking over the leadership of the regional bloc for the next one year.

Faye was elected on Sunday during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Lungi, Sierra Leone. He succeeds Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, who previously chaired the organisation.

In another significant achievement for Senegal, General Birame Diop, the country’s former Minister of the Armed Forces, was elected President of the ECOWAS Commission for the 2026–2030 term. It marks the first time Senegal will head the commission since ECOWAS was established in 1975.

Diop succeeds Gambian diplomat Omar Touray, who has served as President of the ECOWAS Commission since 2022.

As the new ECOWAS chairman, the 46-year-old Faye will oversee the affairs of the regional body for the next year. According to a statement from the Senegalese presidency, his administration will prioritise collective security, economic sovereignty, and upholding the vision of the founding fathers of ECOWAS.

Speaking after his election, President Faye expressed gratitude to his fellow West African leaders for the confidence reposed in Senegal.

“It is with humility that I welcome the trust placed in our country, called to the presiding presidency of ECOWAS. I thank my peers, Heads of State and Government, for this mark of trust and for the spirit of fraternity that presided over our work,” he said.

Faye also congratulated General Birame Diop on his election as President of the ECOWAS Commission and pledged his full support.

The Senegalese leader reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and working towards a more united and peaceful West Africa, describing his vision as one of a “reconciled and united” sub-region.

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Badejo-Okusanya Elected 33rd Nigerian Bar Association President

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, has been elected the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), becoming the second woman to lead the association after defeating two other senior lawyers in the 2026 national officers’ election.

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA), Aham Ejelam, SAN, announced the results on Sunday at the NBA National Secretariat in Abuja after voting was delayed by technical issues and a cyberattack.

Badejo-Okusanya secured 12,317 votes (47.18%) to defeat her closest rival, Lateef Akangbe, SAN, who polled 7,934 votes (30.39%), while Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, received 5,855 votes (22.43%). A total of 26,106 votes were cast in the election.

She will serve a two-year term from 2026 to 2028, becoming only the second female NBA president after Priscilla Kuye, who led the association between 1991 and 1992.

Other elected national officers include Oghenero Okoro as First Vice-President, Afam Okeke as General Secretary, Aghogho Gladys as Assistant General Secretary, and Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam as Welfare Secretary.

Although the president-elect was absent during the announcement of the results, a member of her campaign team, Aminu Gadanya, SAN, explained that she was delayed by a flight and remained committed to uniting the Bar by extending a hand of friendship to all contestants.

Speaking after the declaration, outgoing NBA President Afam Osigwe, SAN, said the election overcame several attempts to disrupt the process, including a cyberattack that forced the ECNBA to migrate its ICT infrastructure to a more secure server.

He urged the newly elected officials to be gracious in victory while encouraging unsuccessful candidates to support the incoming leadership in the interest of the association.

Osigwe also revealed that the Electoral Committee would conduct a comprehensive review of the election to address the challenges encountered, strengthen cybersecurity, and enhance the credibility and integrity of future NBA electoral processes.

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Paul University Suspends Staff Member Over Alleged S€xual Misconduct

Paul University, Awka, has suspended a member of its academic staff, Venerable Cornelius Eze, over allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student.

Eze, a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, was placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of the university’s internal disciplinary process and investigations by relevant law enforcement agencies.

In a statement issued on Friday, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Rev. Godisplan Onukwufor, said management became aware of the allegations on July 14, 2026, and immediately notified security authorities to prevent a breakdown of law and order after tensions reportedly escalated among students.

A video circulating on social media allegedly shows the suspended staff member fleeing his office while dressed only in boxer shorts following the incident.

The university stated that the suspension is a precautionary administrative measure and does not imply guilt, emphasizing that due process will be followed throughout the investigations.

Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a safe and morally sound academic environment, Paul University stressed that it has zero tolerance for sexual harassment, abuse of office, immoral conduct, or any behaviour that threatens the dignity and welfare of students and staff.

The institution also disclosed that counselling and psychological support would be provided to affected students and other members of the university community. It urged the public to avoid spreading speculation or misinformation that could interfere with ongoing investigations, assuring parents, students, and staff that further updates would be released as appropriate.

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BBNaija Season 11 Premieres July 26, Winner to Receive Record N160m Prize

MultiChoice Nigeria has announced that the 11th season of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) will premiere on July 26, 2026, with the eventual winner taking home a record-breaking grand prize worth ₦160 million.

The announcement was made during a media briefing on Wednesday, where organisers revealed that the prize package, consisting of ₦100 million in cash and a brand-new SUV, is the largest ever offered in the history of the reality television show.

The launch show will air from 7:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family. Fans will also be able to follow the 24-hour live broadcast on DStv Channel 198, GOtv Channel 49, as well as via the DStv Stream and GOtv Stream platforms.

Preparations for the new season began with physical auditions held between May 22 and 24 in Lagos, Abuja and Enugu after shortlisted applicants were invited to participate. Auditions were free and open to Nigerians aged 21 and above with valid means of identification.

Speaking on the upcoming edition, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, Atinuke Babatunde, said Season 11 would raise the bar with fresh twists, bigger rewards and a dynamic mix of contestants.

She noted that BBNaija has continued to redefine entertainment across Africa through authentic storytelling and engaging personalities, adding that the new season promises more excitement from the opening night to the grand finale.

The organisers also unveiled betting company betPawa as the headline sponsor for Season 11, while Guinness returns as the Gold Sponsor and Minimie joins as an Associate Sponsor.

Head of Local Marketing and Corporate Social Responsibility at betPawa, Borah Omary Ndanyungu, described the partnership as an opportunity to reward fans and enhance audience engagement throughout the season.

Since its revival in 2017, Big Brother Naija has evolved into one of Africa’s biggest entertainment platforms, producing several stars, creating employment opportunities within the creative industry and influencing popular culture across the continent.

Popular media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu will return as host for the new season, while viewers will be able to vote for their favourite housemates through the MyDStv and MyGOtv self-service apps. Subscribers can also increase their voting benefits by upgrading or renewing their subscriptions for multiple months.