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 Mali kills over 100 terrorists in air strike: military The Malian army carried out an air strike that killed more than 100 terrorists in a forested area of central Mali on Sunday, marking what it described as a significant operation against terrorism in the region, according to an official statement on Monday. The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) said that during an aerial reconnaissance and surveillance mission on January 25, its “air assets successfully struck” a base belonging to armed terrorist groups. The target was located in the Soussan forest, west of Dioila and southwest of Zantiguila. “The toll reports more than 100 terrorists neutralised, as well as equipment destroyed,” the statement said, Anadolu Agency reported. Mali has faced a prolonged security crisis since 2012, driven by terrorist attacks, particularly in the northern and central regions. Fuel blockade The terrorist groups have come under fire for staging a fuel blockade in the country in recent months. The terrorist ...

 "My loyalty is unwavering, it belongs first to Kano state and its people. Kano first, Kano first, Kano first before any other loyalty.” - Governor of Kano, Abba Yusuf, said as he officially rejoins the APC. Watch video below. 

 Dubai-based group develops 200 MW thermal power plant in Burkina Faso Dubai-based industrial group Mark Cables has developed a 200 MW thermal power plant project in Burkina Faso, it said on Monday, Reuters reported. The company, which operates primarily across Africa, said in a statement it had completed the estimated 180 million euro ($213 million) project in just six months. According to World Bank data, only around a fifth of Burkina Faso's population has access to electricity, with the country relying on imports from coastal West African states. "By providing 200 MW of additional capacity, Mark Cables offers a concrete solution to the national electricity deficit," the statement said, adding that it would support the government's efforts to stabilise the grid and reduce dependence on energy imports.

 “Our musicians are worshipped, but nobody hypes Nollywood” — actor Gideon Okeke speaks out Actor Gideon Okeke has shared a passionate video calling out what he described as the imbalance in how Nigerian creatives support each other, especially between the music and film industries. In the video, Gideon questioned why Nigerian musicians are heavily celebrated, idolised, and promoted globally, while Nollywood actors, actresses, and filmmakers rarely get the same public backing from their counterparts in music. He pointed out that while Nigerian artists proudly embrace labels like “big three” and “big five,” very few of them openly recommend or hype Nigerian films, actors, or producers, even as platforms like Netflix expose Nollywood to global audiences. Gideon referenced how global figures like former U.S. President Barack Obama publicly promote music they enjoy and wondered what impact it would have if Nigerian music stars did the same for Nollywood. Watch video below. 

 Ndiowu Community staged a peaceful Protest at the Light House, Awka, over “Illegal” Election Of Traditional Ruler. The people of Ndiowu Community in Orumba North Local Government Area have appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to come to their aid by calling for a fresh election into the traditional stool of the community. They made the appeal during a peaceful protest they staged at the Light House, Awka, where they lamented that an election was conducted without the community's consent and without carrying them along. Speaking during the protest, the Chairman of Umudiabo Village, Ndiowu, Mr. Uchenna Iloh, went down memory lane on how they had worked with the Office of the Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in planning the election, but said that at a point, the issue took another turn when the ministry decided to hold the election on the 12th of this month instead of in April when members of the community would come for their annual general meeting. Mr. Iloh noted that the ...

 Anambra State Ministry of Education Reinforces Governor's Directive on Full Monday Work Resumption for Workers By Obiageli Nwankwo The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, has reiterated the Anambra State Government's firm stance on full compliance with Monday work resumption by all public servants, emphasizing that absenteeism on Mondays will no longer be tolerated. This directive was conveyed during a meeting held with Heads of Departments in the Ministry. Dr. Agbaizu disclosed that His Excellency, the Governor of Anambra State, made this position clear and unequivocal during the recent Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) meeting. According to the Permanent Secretary, the Governor's administration has resolved to enforce strict adherence to duty on Mondays across all sectors. To ensure compliance, attendance registers will be personally signed by staff and carefully monitored for any irregularities in signatures. The registers will further ...

 Property, Goods Destroyed As Fire Engulfs 28 Apartments yesterday In Okpoko, Anambra State. Residents of No. 32 Orumba Street, Okpoko, in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, were thrown into confusion in the early hours of Monday, January 26, 2026, as a fire engulfed a residential building, destroying twenty-eight apartments, including several shops. According to the landlord of the building, Mr. Kingsley Oguejiofor, the fire started shortly after power was restored at about 2 a.m. He said he was awakened by shouts from tenants, only to discover that the building was already in flames. They made frantic efforts to put out the fire but could not salvage anything, as it spread rapidly and reduced the building to ashes. Some of the affected shop owners who spoke to ABS said they received phone calls informing them that their shops were on fire, but before they could get to the scene, the entire building had already been engulfed, making them unable to retrieve any items fr...

 A high-stakes standoff has developed in the commercial hub of Onitsha as the self-styled "United States of Biafra" (USB) issued a counter-directive challenging the Anambra State Government’s recent closure of the Onitsha Main Market. The dispute began on Monday, January 26, 2026, when Governor Charles Soludo ordered the immediate one-week shutdown of the iconic market.  The Governor’s decision followed a personal visit to the site, where he found shops closed in compliance with the long-standing, though officially abolished, Monday "sit-at-home" order. Soludo characterized the traders' refusal to open as "economic sabotage" and warned that continued defiance would result in longer sealings. In a swift response, Dr. Ngozi Orabueze, identifying herself as the Deputy Prime Minister of the "United States of Biafra," issued a "Breaking" alert via her verified social media handle. Her statement ordered all traders to disregard the Govern...

 Indonesian marines among 80 feared dead in West Java landslide   Nineteen members of Indonesia’s elite marine corps are among 80 people reported missing after a devastating landslide tore through a mountainside in West Java province over the weekend, burying their training camp and nearby homes in mud. The disaster struck Pasir Langu village on the slopes of Mount Burangrang before dawn Saturday, engulfing 34 houses and sweeping away residents and marines alike. Rescuers have expanded the search effort from 500 to more than 2,100 personnel, using drones, excavators, water pumps, and even digging by hand. Seventeen victims have been confirmed dead, including 11 identified, with six others still in the process of identification, according to officials. Among the deceased are four marines from a 23-member unit preparing for a long-duration border assignment on the Indonesia–Papua New Guinea frontier, Navy leadership confirmed. Authorities said continuous heavy rain over two nigh...

 Clinton and Obama call on Americans to speak out and act after Minneapolis shootings Former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton on Sunday condemned the recent shootings in Minneapolis, urging Americans to speak out and take action in response to the violence. The Obamas described the death of Alex Pretti over the weekend as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and called it a wake-up call for the nation, saying core American values are increasingly under threat. They also criticized what they described as “unprecedented tactics” by federal agents, including masked ICE recruits, accusing them of intimidating, harassing, and endangering local residents. The Obamas argued that rather than enforcing discipline and accountability, federal officials appear to escalate tensions and provide explanations for the shootings of Pretti and Renee Good that conflict with video evidence. They encouraged Americans to draw inspiration from the wave of peaceful protests in Minneapolis and across the count...

 Former South Korean prime minister Lee Hae-chan dies at 73 Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan passed away on Sunday at the age of 73 while visiting Vietnam. He died in Ho Chi Minh City at 2:48 p.m. local time after being hospitalized on Friday due to deteriorating health. Lee had suffered a myocardial infarction and underwent a cardiac stent procedure, but did not regain consciousness. Born in 1952 in Cheongyang County, South Chungcheong Province, Lee served seven terms in the National Assembly and held multiple leadership roles within the Democratic Party, including from 2012 and again from 2019 to 2020. He was the education minister under the Kim Dae-jung administration and later became prime minister under President Roh Moo-hyun, noted as the first former activist to assume the role. More recently, Lee advised President Lee Jae-myung’s election strategy committee during the 21st presidential election and was appointed senior vice chairman of the National Unificatio...

At least 18 dead, 24 missing after ferry capsizes in Philippines  At least 18 people were killed, and 24 remain missing after an overnight ferry sank off the southwestern Philippines, authorities said Monday. The Philippine Coast Guard rescued 317 passengers from the MV Trisha Kerstin 3, a 620-ton roll-on, roll-off vessel traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island. Rescue operations continued for the remaining missing passengers and crew. The ferry issued a distress call around 1:50 a.m. local time, roughly four-and-a-half hours into its journey, as rough seas caused by a northeast monsoon affected the area. Officials said 332 passengers and 27 crew members were on board, within the vessel’s permitted capacity. A coast guard safety officer raised the alarm after the ship experienced technical problems, prompting a large-scale rescue operation involving coast guard vessels, an Air Force Black Hawk helicopter, a surveillance plane, and local fishermen. Authorities have launched an ...

 Israel confirms recovery of last hostage’s remains in Gaza   Israel has confirmed that the remains of the final hostage in Gaza, 24-year-old Border Police officer Ran Gvili, have been recovered, clearing the way for the next phase of the ceasefire that ended the Israel-Hamas war. Gvili, who was killed during Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, had been the last missing person whose return was required before moving forward with the U.S.-brokered truce. His family had urged the government to complete his recovery before advancing to the second phase. The military conducted a large-scale operation in a northern Gaza cemetery, drawing on intelligence to locate Gvili’s remains. Rabbis and dental experts assisted with identification. The operation follows months of tension, with Israel accusing Hamas of delaying the handover and Hamas asserting it had provided all information available. Since the ceasefire took effect on Oct. 10, 2023, Israel had already recovered...

FAA says 7 killed and 1 survivor found after jet crashes in snow in Bangor, Maine  Seven people were killed, and one crew member was seriously injured after a private business jet crashed during a snowstorm while attempting to take off from Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday night. The Bombardier Challenger 600, carrying eight people, went down around 7:45 p.m. as heavy snow fell across New England amid a massive winter system affecting much of the country. The aircraft overturned and caught fire after the crash, prompting an immediate emergency response. Air traffic control audio captured frantic moments shortly after takeoff clearance, with a voice reporting that the aircraft was upside down, followed by first responders arriving in under a minute. Airport operations were suspended shortly afterward, and the facility remains closed as crews continue recovery and investigation efforts. The jet was registered to a corporate entity based in Houston, Texas, sharing an ad...

 Blind Side actor Quinton Aaron hospitalized following collapse Quinton Aaron, best known for his role in The Blind Side, was hospitalized on Monday after collapsing while walking up the stairs to his home. The actor, 41, is reportedly stable, according to his manager, Katrina Fristoe. Fristoe asked for privacy, saying the family “deeply appreciates the outpouring of support from fans and the media but respectfully requests privacy during this time.” The cause of Aaron’s collapse has not been confirmed. A GoFundMe page set up on his behalf states that he is on life support due to a severe blood infection and has raised approximately $1,393 so far. The page notes that the sudden event has been “frightening and overwhelming” for his loved ones, who face both emotional and financial challenges amid his recovery.

 Three Daughters Of Plateau Water Board MD Abducted By Gunmen In Jos   Director of the Plateau State Water Board, Engr. Apollos Samchi, have been reportedly abducted by unknown gunmen. They were reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of Monday during an attack on Samchi’s residence in the Rantya area of Jos South Local Government Area. A source told security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 12:53 a.m. on January 26, when a distress call was received that gunshots were heard around Dumac Suites in Rantya. The attackers also shot the family’s security guard, identified as Benard Makjwan, in the stomach. He was rushed to Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, where he is currently receiving treatment. “On arrival at the scene, it was discovered that some armed men suspected to be kidnappers had forced their way into the house of Engr. Apollos Samchi and abducted his three children – Nanlop Samchi, Kyenret Samchi a...

 Kenya starvation cult preacher to be charged over 52 more deaths A self-proclaimed preacher in Kenya linked to a starvation cult that killed more than 400 people will be charged over a further 52 deaths at another village, prosecutors said on Monday. In a case that made global headlines when it came to light in 2023, hundreds of people died in what became known as the "Shakahola Forest Massacre", discovered in the Kenyan coastal town of Malindi. Self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of manslaughter at his trial in Mombasa city and has remained in custody. But last year, Kenya was shocked by the discovery of yet more bodies in the remote village of Binzaro, around 30 kilometres from Shakahola along the Indian Ocean coast. 'Radical teachings' It appeared to show that the same cult had continued to operate even after the first massacre site was discovered and Mackenzie arrested. In a statement on X, the Office of the Director of...

Sit At Home: Governor Soludo Shuts Down Onitsha Main Market In a decisive move to enforce compliance with the state’s directive against the controversial Monday sit-at-home order, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate shutdown of the Onitsha main market for one week in the first instance. The action follows repeated defiance by traders at the popular  Markets, who did not open for business despite a government warning to disregard the sit-at-home order imposed by non-state actors. The order, which has disrupted economic and social activities across the Southeast for years, was publicly condemned by the Soludo administration, which urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear. The Governor stated that if they don't open at the expiration of the shut down, the market will be shut down for one month and so on and so forth, pointing out that the closure is a necessary step to protect law-abiding citizens and reinforce the autho...

 PRESS RELEASE. GOV. ALEX OTTI APPROVES APPOINTMENT OF COACH DEUTSCH DETCHOUA GUSTAVE EMMANUEL AS HEAD COACH OF ENYIMBA INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL CLUB, ABA The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has approved the appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new Head Coach of Enyimba International Football Club, Aba. Enyimba International Football Club remains Nigeria’s most decorated football club and one of Abia State’s most prominent sporting brands across Africa. As a two-time CAF Champions League winner and multiple-time domestic league champion, Enyimba has historically projected Abia State on the continental football stage and inspired generations of footballers and supporters. In recent times, the club has experienced a decline from its traditional standards of excellence. The administration of Governor Alex Otti is determined to restore Enyimba’s pride of place as a dominant force in Nigerian and African football, while...

 Rivers Lawmaker Slams Tinubu’s Aide Over Remarks on Wike’s ‘Compensation’ and Rivers Crisis A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Solomon Bob, has sharply criticised President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, accusing him of peddling a “malicious narrative” against Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt and circulated to journalists in Abuja, the lawmaker, who represents Abua/Odual/Ahoada East Federal Constituency in Rivers State and is a known ally of Wike, described Bwala as “an insignificant and attention-seeking operator, punching above his weight.” Bob was responding to comments Bwala made during a television interview on Friday, where the presidential aide stated that Wike had been “adequately compensated” by the Tinubu administration. Bwala also suggested that the FCT minister was obstructing Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s ability to govern...

 Yoruba Nation Activist Sunday Igboho Returns to Nigeria After Years in Exile Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, the prominent Yoruba Nation activist, has returned to Nigeria following his removal from the Federal Government's wanted list under President Bola Tinubu's administration. Igboho arrived in Ibadan on Monday, January 26, 2026, marking his first major public appearance since fleeing the country in 2021 amid a security raid on his residence. Upon arrival, he headed directly to the palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, in what his camp described as a significant homecoming. Confirming the development, Igboho's spokesperson, Olayomi Koiki, stated that the activist was en route to the Olubadan's palace. “As I’m speaking to you, Chief Sunday Adeyemo is on his way to Olubadan Palace. He should be there any moment from now,” Koiki said. Koiki earlier characterized the return as a “historic” moment and one of hope for Ibada...

 ABUJA, FCT JANUARY 26, 2026 PRESS STATEMENT  END NEEDLESS SPECULATIONS ON APC 2027 PRESIDENTIAL RUNNING MATE Our attention has been drawn to growing media frenzy about possible replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Tinubu under the platform of our great Party ahead of the 2027 General Elections.  While these stories have been mostly subtle, they recently assumed a new dimension when names of specific individuals were touted as possible replacement for Vice President Shettima.  Our Party states in categorical terms that the stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.  We urge media organizations to refrain from lending their platforms to rumour-peddlers and mischievous "news sources" of questionable provenance whose only intention is to promote discord and confusion in the polity.  Under our laws and electoral regulations, the ban on political activities remains in force. At this time, our Party...

 Kwankwaso’s Son Resigns as Kano Commissioner for Youth and Sports Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, son of former Kano Governor and NNPP national leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has resigned as Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development and member of the Kano State Executive Council under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. In a statement released today, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso announced his resignation with the following words: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation as Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and Member of the Kano State Executive Council. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the opportunity to serve the great people of Kano State. I have cherished the experiences and lessons gained while serving, and I appreciate the trust placed in me. “As I resign, I pray that the youth of Kano State will continue to receive the attention and support they deserve. I hope for the best for our sport...

 No Community Will Be Left Behind In Kaduna, Says Gov. Sani Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, declaring that no community will be left behind in the execution of infrastructure projects across the state. The governor disclosed that his administration is currently constructing 140 road projects spanning 1,335 kilometres across all 23 local government areas of the state, cutting across the three senatorial districts.  He noted that all the road projects were conceived and initiated by his government, while assuring that inherited road projects would also be completed. Governor Sani made this known on Saturday during the inauguration of the newly asphalted Durum–Kuruntumawa road in Makarfi Local Government Area.  He emphasized that all ongoing road projects are being executed to standard quality. Recalling his visit to Kuruntumawa in September 2025 for the groundbreaking ceremony of the project, ...

 Ethiopia declares end of Marburg outbreak that killed nine Ethiopia has declared the end of an outbreak of Marburg virus, the World Health Organization said on Monday, after the disease killed at least nine people. The Horn of Africa country announced on November 14 the outbreak of the highly infectious disease similar to Ebola. "Ethiopia has officially declared the end of its first-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak following enhanced surveillance with no new confirmed cases," WHO said on X, Reuters reported. Marburg often causes severe headaches and leads to haemorrhaging. Previous outbreaks in Africa have resulted in fatality rates as high as 80% or more of cases, typically within eight to nine days of the onset of symptoms.

 POLICE SERVICE COMMISSION  PRESS RELEASE  RECRUITMENT OF 50,000 POLICE CONSTABLES: OVER 400,000 APPLICATIONS RECEIVED; APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED BY TWO WEEKS The Police Service Commission (PSC) and Nigeria Police Force (NPF) announce a two-week extension for the ongoing recruitment of 50,000 Constables. The application portal which opened on 15th December, 2025 has now been extended to close on 8th February, 2026. This decision follows the receipt of over 400,000 applications and a review showing significant disparities in state participation. While some states like Adamawa, Benue, and Kaduna have high application numbers, states such as Lagos, Ogun, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, and Anambra have notably lower submissions. The extension aims to ensure equitable representation nationwide. All eligible Nigerians, particularly from above-mentioned states with fewer applications, are strongly encouraged to apply via the official portal: www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng. State Government...

Angry striking workers chase FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike’s motorcade There was tension in Abuja on Monday, January 26, when a group of aggrieved workers chased the motorcade of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during a protest over unresolved welfare and salary issues. Videos shared online showed the aggrieved workers pursuing a car WIke was allegedly riding in. The protesters were heard chanting and moving toward the vehicles while calling for attention to their grievances. Earlier today, the striking workers backed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), picketed the National Industrial Court in Abuja on Monday as part of their ongoing indefinite strike, demanding the removal of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and payment of outstanding entitlements. The protesters carried placards reading “Wike must go!!”, “Abuja no be Rivers”, “Pay promotion arrears”, “Enough is Enough” and “No working tools” as they massed at the court entrance, witnesses and pictures from th...

 FMINO PRESS RELEASE Religious Tolerance Remains Key to Nigeria’s Peace, Unity - President Tinubu  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence as critical pillars for national security and development. The President made this call on Monday at the 4th International Conference of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue at Bayero University, Kano.   He was represented at the event by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. President Tinubu commended the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue and the Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna, for sustaining dialogue that promotes peace and national cohesion.  “This conference continues to uphold the ideals of our nation’s peace and unity through dialogue. I am honoured by this invitation,” the President said. He described the conference’s focus on the legacy of the late Sheikh Mahm...

 DIEZANI ALISON-MADUEKE FACES HIGH-STAKES CORRUPTION TRIAL IN LONDON — BILLIONS IN NIGERIAN OIL FUNDS ALLEGEDLY LOOTED, INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE IN PLAY In a landmark courtroom drama that has captured global attention, former Nigerian Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has formally appeared in a London court for a criminal trial over allegations that she masterminded the theft of billions of dollars from Nigeria’s oil revenues during her tenure from 2010 to 2015. The case, opened on January 26, 2026, is being prosecuted by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and represents one of the most significant prosecutions of a senior Nigerian official abroad in recent memory. Alison-Madueke stands accused of orchestrating a sprawling network of corruption, involving bribes, kickbacks, and fraudulent contracts tied to Nigeria’s oil licensing rounds, NNPC operations, and strategic deals with multinational oil companies. Prosecutors allege she used shell companies, offshore trusts, proxie...

 Int'l Day Of Clean Energy: First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Urges Nigerians To Protect Environment  First Lady,  Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace renewable energy and sustainable technologies as an essential foundation for survival, healthy living, and environmental stewardship. In her message marking 2026  International Day of Clean Energy, the First Lady says the celebration, under the theme “Clean Energy for People and Planet,” highlights the shared responsibility to protect and preserve the environment by working together to build a greener and healthier planet for all.

 RENEWED HOPE AMBASSADORS FLAG OFF 2027 MOBILIZATION IN JIGAWA  Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu government's pro-people mantra has Inaugurated its Jigawa State Structure believed to be the first in the country to strengthen  sensitization of its Citizens on the achievements of President. Mohammad Musa Askira reports that the programme rounded up with the distribution of food palliative to religious and community leaders as seasonal token from the president in Dutse where Musa Shu’aibu Guri  emerged as the State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a national support group backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second tenure. Participants at the meeting pledged to embark on massive sensitization campaigns to highlight the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Jigawa State and how it has improved the economy of State. The Jigawa Renewed Hope Ambassadors, under the national leadership of its Director general  Hope Uzodimma, Go...

 NiMET Alerts on False Start Rainy Season The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning to farmers and the public not to be misled by recent scattered showers in parts of the country, emphasising that these are not the onset of the 2026 rainy season and could prove hazardous for agriculture and health. Rainfall was reported in sections of Lagos and Ogun states last week, sparking speculation among residents that the wet season had arrived prematurely. However, NiMet officials have classified these downpours as "pseudo rains," predicting they will dissipate within two weeks, potentially followed by a prolonged dry spell. Prof. Vincent Weli, Director of Weather Services at NiMet, advised farmers to hold off on planting to avoid devastating losses.  In addition to agricultural risks, the agency highlighted potential health dangers associated with the current precipitation. He said people in areas where it is raining are advised not to consume the rainwater, as ...

 NANNM WARNS BSUTH ACTIONS MAY WORSEN NURSES' STRIKE  26th January, 2026      The Benue State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, has raised the alarm over what it described as sustained victimisation of nurses at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, BSUTH, Makurdi, warning that the development could further prolong the ongoing industrial action. The State Chairman of the association, Comrade Nr. Tahav Kershio, in a statement on Monday, condemned the alleged use of intimidation, threats and punitive measures against nurses, describing such actions as outdated and counterproductive to peaceful conflict resolution. According to Kershio, newly employed nurses are yet to be paid their salaries, while older staff members are receiving only partial payments. He also alleged threats of dismissal, removal of some nurses from confirmation and other actions capable of escalating tensions and attracting national attention to ...

 BENUE FINANCE COMMISSIONER DETAINED OVER ₦1.2BN VEHICLE PAYMENT  26th January, 2026      The Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Michael Oglegba, was yesterday detained at the Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja, over allegations of failing to explain why a car dealer is yet to be paid for supplying vehicles to the state House of Assembly. The dealer reportedly supplied seven official cars for Assembly members, a Hilux for the Clerk, and a bus for the Assembly. Governor Hyacinth Alia had approved ₦1.2 billion for the purchases and directed the Finance Commissioner to ensure prompt payment. Governor Alia expressed shock that the transaction has not been concluded, saying, “Something is not adding up. Someone is lying and we will know who very soon.” Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

 Mozambique floods: Southern African bloc deploys emergency team A regional emergency response team from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has arrived in Mozambique to assist with relief efforts after severe floods affected more than 650,000 people, the bloc said. The multi-disciplinary team, including experts in logistics, search and rescue, public health, communications, and civil-military coordination, arrived on Saturday and was integrated into Mozambique’s national humanitarian coordination system to support recovery operations, a SADC statement said, Anadolu Agency reported. It said the floods across Mozambique have caused extensive damage to roads, schools, health facilities, and other critical infrastructure. According to the SADC, Gaza Province has been the hardest hit, with nearly 392,000 people affected and four deaths reported. Maputo Province and Maputo City have reported three and one deaths, respectively, while Sofala Province has reported four deaths...

 South Sudan orders evacuations of UN staff, civilians in three counties ahead of military offensive South Sudan's military has ordered all civilians and personnel from the UN mission and all other charities to evacuate three counties in Jonglei State ahead of an operation there against opposition forces. Clashes that the United Nations says are occurring at a scale not seen since 2017 have been convulsing South Sudan, Africa's youngest country, for months. Some of the fiercest fighting has taken place in Jonglei, located in the country's east on the border with Ethiopia, where the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) is seeking to halt an offensive by fighters loyal to Sudan People's Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO). An operation code-named "operation enduring peace" was "imminent," the SSPDF said in an evacuation statement, Reuters reported. Evacuate in 48 hours The military said all civilians living in Nyirol, Uror and Akobo coun...

 DEPUTY SPEAKER KALU COMMENDS PRESIDENT TINUBU'S ECONOMIC REFORMS, URGES SOUTH-EAST TO TAKE THE ADVANTAGE The deputy speaker of the house of representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as courageous economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the nation’s economy. Kalu said the reforms, though challenging, were necessary steps to reposition the economy and restore confidence in Nigeria’s financial system. Ifeoma Ndu-Okolie reports that At a media chat in his country home in Bende LGA of Abia state, Rt. Hon. Kalu described the bold step by  president Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards repositioning the economy as courageous . The reforms he noted were necessary to strengthen the economy and attract investments, calling on igbos to seize the opportunities created by the policies and contribute to economic growth. The law maker stressed that governance should not be seen as a competition but a collaborative effort, adding that they should be a...