PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 Military judge suppresses Khalid Sheikh Mohammed’s FBI confession in 9/11 case A military judge has excluded a confession that alleged Sept. 11 attacks mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents nearly 20 years ago, ruling that the statements were not made voluntarily. The decision is a setback for the U.S. government's long-running effort to prosecute Mohammed, who is accused of helping develop the plot to hijack planes and crash them into the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Mohammed remains detained at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, alongside other defendants awaiting trial. Lt. Col. Michael Schrama, the judge overseeing the case, scheduled a June 2028 trial for Mohammed and three other defendants earlier this week. In an order issued Friday that has not been made public, Schrama barred prosecutors from using statements Mohammed made during four days of FBI questioning at Guantanamo in January 2007. Mohammed had previously been captured and held by the CIA, where he was subjec...

 15-foot python named Jodie Foster becomes first snake treated with pioneering cancer therapy and is now cancer-free Jodie Foster, a 15-foot reticulated python, is cancer-free and back to her energetic self after becoming the first known snake to undergo electrochemotherapy. The 23-year-old python, housed at Chester Zoo in England, developed a malignant fibrosarcoma tumor in her jaw that returned after it had previously been surgically removed. Veterinarians determined that another surgery alone would not be enough, as the tumor was destroying part of her jawbone and making it increasingly difficult for her to eat. Zoo veterinary staff worked with cancer specialists to adapt electrochemotherapy for use on the unusually large snake. The 90-minute procedure was performed in October 2025 and required the team to develop specialized ways to treat Jodie because of her size. During the procedure, veterinarians removed the tumor along with diseased portions of her jawbone before administe...

 Philadelphia officer under investigation after allegedly leaving man in street before deadly hit-and-run  Philadelphia police are investigating an officer accused of failing to assist a man who was lying in the roadway before he was struck and killed by a vehicle in Philadelphia's Olney neighborhood. The 48-year-old man was struck around 1:45 a.m. Thursday on the 5500 block of Rising Sun Avenue. Police officials did not learn about the crash until later that morning, when the medical examiner's office contacted them seeking additional information. Surveillance footage shows the man walking with an unsteady gait in the bike lane before falling into the roadway. An officer driving through the area stopped and spoke with him after he fell. The officer positioned the police vehicle in front of the man, got out and approached him, then returned to the vehicle and drove away while the man remained partially in the bike lane and partially in the traffic lane. A civilian briefly appe...

 Tanzania swears in new Vice-President Ndejembi Tanzania’s former energy minister Deogratius Ndejembi has been sworn in as the country’s vice-president at a ceremony held in State House in the capital, Dodoma. The 43 year-old replaces Emmanuel Nchimbi, who resigned from the position earlier this week, TRT Afrika reported. Ndejembi has pledged loyalty to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and promised to serve all Tanzanians regardless of their political affiliations. He was nominated to the position by the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, before being unanimously approved by parliament on Friday. In her remarks after the swearing-in ceremony on Saturday, President Samia urged her new vice-president to mature quickly to the tasks of the role despite his young age. She described Ndejembi’s appointment as a reflection of her government's commitment to handing leadership roles to the youth.

 South Africa accuses Israel of defying UN court’s orders on Gaza South Africa formally accused Israel of failing to adhere to three legally binding orders from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), submitting an evidence dossier to the world body, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation announced, Anadolu Agency reported. “Regrettably, Israel has not complied with the Orders,” Pretoria stated in a filing Tuesday, asserting that it will continue to pursue “all avenues available” to ensure Tel Aviv’s full and immediate adherence to the Genocide Convention. South Africa warned that the rights of Palestinians in Gaza may be “destroyed before it renders its final decision,” a situation it claimed threatens the “legitimacy of the ICJ itself.” The dossier notes that as of August, at least 73,407 Palestinians have been killed and 174,335 injured, representing “over 10% of the Palestinian population.” Miscarriages have increased The report also said that since the ann...

 Niger says military activity in capital brought under control Niger's defense minister said Saturday that military activity in the capital, Niamey, had been brought under control and security forces had regained control of critical sites that were targeted. Gen. Salifou Mody's remarks were broadcast on national television after heavy gunfire and explosions were reported around Diori Hamani International Airport and the presidential palace in Niamey. Mody said a group of soldiers had "broken away from military order" and attempted to detain some of their fellow soldiers at the Base 101 military facility in Niamey before opening fire on several critical sites in the capital. He said the activity was brought under control thanks to the swift intervention of Nigerien defense and security forces, adding that control was gradually restored in the targeted areas. Mody urged residents of Niamey to remain calm and continue their daily activities as usual.

 ANAMBRA POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED DRUG DEALER, RECOVER ILLICIT DRUGS WORTH ₦5.8 MILLION IN OTUOCHA As CP Nnanna notes that illicit drugs can fuel criminality, charges officers to sustain targeted operations to nip crime in the bud The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old suspected drug dealer, identified as Chinedu Nwankwo, and recovered a large quantity of suspected Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine and Colorado (Colos), estimated at ₦5.8 million. The suspect was arrested in the early hours of today, 29th August 2026, by operatives of the Rapid Response Team during an intelligence-driven patrol operation along the Nteje–Otuocha Road. Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect was allegedly conveying the illicit substances to Otuocha, Anyamelium, Nzam, Umuleri and Aguleri areas for delivery to suspected criminal elements. Investigators are also examining the alleged connection of the consignments with activities capable of disrupting the ongoing Local Gov...

 ASUU–ABSU SUSPENDS THREE-WEEK-OLD INDEFINITE STRIKE The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Abia State University Branch, wishes to inform the University community, all stakeholders and the general public that, following the resolution of Congress held today, Friday, 28th August, 2026, the Branch has suspended its three-week-old comprehensive industrial action with immediate effect. The decision of Congress followed a careful assessment of developments since the commencement of the strike and, particularly, the concrete steps taken towards addressing some of the major issues that necessitated the industrial action. Foremost among these is the full implementation of the 2025 FGN–ASUU salary structure, including the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA), which has now been reflected in the August 2026 salaries of academic staff of Abia State University. Congress also acknowledged the payment of the outstanding arrears of check-off dues owed to the Union. ASUU–ABSU co...

 "Worth It" — Woman Pleads Guilty to Fatally Shooting 11-Month-Old Son to Keep Him From Father Madeline Veronique Daly, 36, pleaded guilty this week in Silver City, New Mexico, to first-degree murder in the December 23, 2025 killing of her 11-month-old son, Basil Stoner. Grant County deputies had tracked her to an RV off Highway 15 on a Wyoming kidnapping warrant after she took the baby during a custody dispute with his father, Jake Stoner. While officers waited for a warrant and tried to negotiate, Daly put a 9mm handgun to the boy’s face and fired. According to the criminal complaint, Daly told investigators her thought when she saw law enforcement approach was: “Jake can’t get Basil.” After her arrest she said it was “worth it” if Basil’s father and his family never got him. The affidavit also records her saying she would do it again “just to make sure that the didn’t touch him.” Bodycam footage referenced in court documents states she admitted shooting the child and “not ...

 OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA: TROOPS ARREST TERRORIST COLLABORATORS, DESTROY ENCLAVES IN KADUNA, KATSINA STATES Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded further operational successes in Kaduna and Katsina States, arresting suspected terrorist collaborators, intercepting weapons and ammunition, as well as destroying identified terrorist enclaves during separate operations conducted on 27 and 28 August 2026. On 27 August 2026, troops of Sector 1 acted on information regarding the apprehension of a suspected terrorist collaborator in Kaduna State. The suspect was found in possession of 2 locally fabricated guns and 13 rounds of ammunition concealed in a bag. During preliminary investigation, the suspect disclosed that he had been tasked to deliver the weapons and ammunition to another individual. Acting on the information from the suspect, troops swiftly conducted a follow-up operation and apprehended 2 additional suspects connected with the movement of the wea...

 SANWO-OLU WELCOMES NEW US CONSUL GENERAL, SEEKS STRONGER LAGOS-US ECONOMIC TIES   The Government of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has called for stronger and more practical economic cooperation between Lagos State and the United States on trade, investment, technology, innovation and the creative economy. The Governor made the call at a welcome reception in honour of the newly appointed U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Brandon Hudspeth, at Ikoyi, Lagos on Thursday. Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Esq., described Hudspeth’s return to Lagos as significant. He recalled his previous service in the city between 2020 and 2022 as Political-Economic Section Chief of the U.S. Consulate Lagos, like the rest of the world, was navigating the disruption and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the Consul General’s previous experience and understanding of Lagos would provide a strong foundation ...

 LASRRA TAKES RESIDENT REGISTRATION SENSITISATION CAMPAIGN TO AJAH, URGES RESIDENTS TO REGISTER The Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) has taken its sensitisation campaign on the importance of resident registration to Ajah, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, urging residents to register and support the government’s efforts to plan effectively for the growing population of the State. The sensitisation campaign and town hall meeting, held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Ajah, brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, market women, artisans, residents and other stakeholders to enlighten them on the roles and responsibilities of LASRRA and the benefits of resident registration. Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASRRA, Mrs. Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abisola, emphasised that every resident of Lagos counts and should be counted, noting that accurate resident data is essential for effective government planning and the delivery of social services. She explaine...

 NIGERIA’S LAND BORDERS ARE NOT CLOSED - INTERIOR MINISTER The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has dismissed claims that Nigeria’s land borders need to be reopened, saying they are already open and subject to security and regulatory controls. In a statement, the Minister says major land borders including Seme, Illela, Maigatari and Mfum were reopened in 2020, while Idiroko and Ikom followed in 2022. Kamba and Tsamiya in Kebbi State were also reopened in February 2026. Tunji-Ojo explains that the closure of some crossings along the Cameroon border was security-driven due to Boko Haram insurgency and should not be conflated with the 2019 trade policy. He adds that crossings in areas facing banditry or residual insurgent activity remain subject to tighter controls as a deliberate security measure to protect border communities and traders. The Minister stresses that modern border management requires a balance of security, documentation, customs compliance and trade facilitati...

 FG MOURNS WITH CHINA OVER FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES  Federal Government has expressed deep sympathy to China over floods and landslides along the China-Nepal border on August 26, 2026. In a statement by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Oluwafemi Adeniyi noted that the disaster claimed many lives, and injured hundreds, as well as caused massive destruction in Gyirong County, Tibet. The Nigerian Government also commiserated with the families of Chinese, Nepali victims, and foreign nationals from Australia, India, Malaysia, the UK and US. Nigeria commended President Xi Jinping and Chinese rescue teams for their swift response and ongoing humanitarian efforts. The Federal Government stands in solidarity with China and prayed for the repose of the dead and comfort for the injured and displaced as recovery continues.

 BBNaija Season 11: Drama Escalates as Sultex Threatens Yusuf, Dares Him to 'Meet Outside' The tension within the Big Brother Naija Season 11 house reached a boiling point after a violent verbal altercation erupted between housemates Sultex and Yusuf. The heated exchange, which quickly went viral online, escalated to the point of serious physical threats, ultimately drawing in fellow housemate Bells. Threats of Violence and a Lagos Face-Off During the confrontation, a visibly angry Sultex launched a barrage of severe threats at Yusuf. In a widely circulated video clip, Sultex questioned Yusuf's resilience and threatened physical harm, boasting that he would confront him once their time in the reality TV house came to an end. Asserting his dominance, Sultex warned Yusuf that he would not be able to avoid him in the real world. He specifically dared Yusuf to meet him on the streets of Lagos, implying that the confinement of the show was the only thing keeping Yusuf safe from ...

 PHOTO NEWS ANAMBRA LOCAL GOVERNMNET ELECTION: CP NNANNA OJI AMA LEADS ELECTION SECURITY PATROL ACROSS ANAMBRA STATE In furtherance of the Anambra State Police Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, while ensuring that residents can exercise their civic responsibilities without fear or intimidation, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, psc, mnips, today, 29th August 2026, led an election security monitoring patrol across the State. As part of the monitoring exercise, the Commissioner of Police visited the ANSIEC Office in Awka and proceeded on patrol along the Onitsha Expressway, Otuocha axis, Anambra East Local Government Area, Onitsha, and other strategic locations across the State. The patrol was aimed at assessing the security situation, monitoring the deployment and conduct of personnel, and ensuring a safe, peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections across the State. The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commit...

 Odumodublvck Confronts Police Over Attempted Arrest at Public Event Prominent Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck was involved in a tense confrontation with police officers on Saturday morning, vigorously arguing that his attempted arrest at an event venue was unlawful. The Heated Viral Exchange In a video widely shared across social media platforms, an officer is seen questioning the hip-hop star about why he was refusing to comply with their directives. The officer asked the artist if he was actively resisting arrest, reminding him that a prior invitation had been sent to him. Odumodublvck quickly dismissed the accusation of non-compliance, stating that his legal representation had already engaged with the authorities. "My lawyers came to your office, I am not resisting arrest, it was attended to," the rapper asserted in the video. Dispute Over Jurisdiction and Legal Standing As the confrontation escalated, Odumodublvck challenged the officers' authority to apprehend him at t...

 NERC Report: Togo, Benin, and Niger Owe Nigeria $11M for 2025 Power Supply West African neighbors Niger, Benin, and Togo have accumulated an outstanding debt of $11.16 million for electricity supplied by Nigerian power generation companies in 2025. This was disclosed in the latest annual report from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). According to the regulatory body, the Market Operator (MO) issued invoices totaling $73.91 million to the three international buyers under bilateral arrangements. However, only $62.75 million was recovered during the period, representing a remittance performance of 84.90 percent. Breakdown of International Power Debt The debtors include the state-run power firms of the neighboring nations: Société Nigérienne d’Électricité (NIGELEC) of Niger, Société Béninoise d’Énergie Électrique (SBEE) of Benin, and Compagnie Énergie Électrique du Togo (CEET). These cross-border customers rely on Nigeria's grid for ancillary services but failed to...

 Why Yoruba Filmmakers Now Dominate Nollywood: Francis Duru Weighs In Veteran Nigerian actor Francis Duru has offered a candid perspective on the shifting power dynamics within Nollywood, explaining why filmmakers of Yoruba descent currently dominate the industry despite the foundational contributions of Igbo creators during the home-video boom. The Genesis of Nollywood and the Shift in Control While acknowledging historical pioneers like Hubert Ogunde, who laid the groundwork for Nigerian theater and cinema in the mid-20th century, Duru maintained that the global phenomenon known as "Nollywood" was truly birthed in the 1990s and early 2000s. During this era, Igbo filmmakers revolutionized the local market by introducing and popularizing home videos. However, despite this head start, Duru believes a lack of strategic unity has hindered Igbo filmmakers from maintaining their lead. Community Support vs. Individualism According to Duru, the Yoruba film sector has overtaken the I...

 Meta to Introduce Per-Message Fees for WhatsApp Business Platform in October 2026 Meta Announces New WhatsApp Business Platform Fees Tech giant Meta has announced a significant shift in its monetization strategy for the WhatsApp Business Platform, formerly known as the WhatsApp Business API. Starting October 1, 2026, the company will introduce per-message charges for service and utility messages sent to customers. This update marks the end of certain free communication windows currently enjoyed by enterprises. Who Will Be Impacted by the Pricing Changes? The upcoming pricing policy specifically targets larger organizations that utilize the WhatsApp Business Platform to manage high-volume customer interactions. Among those heavily affected will be banks, fintech companies, e-commerce platforms, telecommunications operators, logistics firms, and major retailers who rely on the application for transaction alerts and customer support. Importantly, the change will not affect everyday W...

 Nigerian Lawyer Demands Audit After 708GB of MTN Data Mysteriously Vanishes A Nigerian legal practitioner, Zaenab Olawunmi Adams, Esq., has filed a formal complaint against telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria, demanding a comprehensive audit of her internet data after a staggering 708.55GB of her annual data package disappeared in just over three months. Adams, who purchased an 800GB annual data subscription expecting it to last a year, was shocked to discover that only about 11.4 percent of her allocation remained active. According to MTN's records, approximately 708.55GB had been drained within 104 days, leaving her with a meager 91.45GB balance. Unusual Consumption Pattern Sparks Concern In her formal letter of complaint addressed to MTN Nigeria's customer care, Adams strongly disputed the rapid depletion rate, emphasizing that her daily digital footprint does not justify such high data usage. She pointed out that she is not a heavy internet user and operates on a very str...

 Davido Reignites Wizkid Rivalry with Surprising Claim About Producer Maleek Berry Afrobeats heavyweight Davido has sparked fresh conversations online after claiming he knew British-Nigerian record producer Maleek Berry long before his musical rival, Wizkid, did. Davido’s London Revelations Speaking during a recent appearance on the +44 Podcast, the "Timeless" hitmaker reflected on his early days in the music industry. In a video clip that has since gone viral, Davido revealed that his connection with Maleek Berry dates back to a pivotal, rebellious phase in his youth when he left home for the United Kingdom. "The first place I came to when I ran away from home is London. I was with Maleek Berry. Ask him, I'm the first person to know Maleek Berry," Davido asserted during the interview. A History of Collaboration and Rivalry The statement has caught the attention of music enthusiasts because Maleek Berry is widely recognized as a close associate and frequent coll...

 BBNaija Season 11: Yusuf and Sultex Clash in Heated Exchange, Risking Disqualification The atmosphere inside the Big Brother Naija Season 11 house has turned intensely hostile following a dramatic showdown between housemates Yusuf and Sultex. The two reality stars were captured in a viral social media video engaging in a fierce confrontation that teetered on the edge of physical violence. How the Altercation Unfolded While the precise cause of the rift remains undisclosed, the exchange quickly escalated into a battle of words and threats. Visibly angered, Yusuf expressed his displeasure to Sultex, saying, "I beg I don’t like what you did honestly." As the argument intensified, Yusuf warned his fellow housemate in Nigerian Pidgin, saying, "Make I shut up, make I no vex you? I go nod your eyes," indicating a threat to headbutt him. Rather than backing down, Sultex challenged Yusuf to act on his threat, daring him to strike first to see how he would react. The Threat ...

 BBNaija: Tram Regrets 'Advanced Intimacy' With Temi Nkem, Laments Fast-Paced Romance Big Brother Naija housemate Tram has sparked intense conversation among fans after opening up about his physical relationship with fellow contestant Temi Nkem, expressing deep regret over how quickly things have progressed between them. During a candid late-night conversation with Nomy on Thursday, Tram confessed that his interactions with Temi went far beyond casual kissing, describing their nightly encounters as "advanced intimacy." Tram Regrets Fast-Paced Romance with Temi Nkem While discussing the nature of their relationship, Tram admitted that he felt uncomfortable with how rapidly their connection escalated. According to him, the physical romance began the week prior to Saturday night and quickly intensified into a nightly routine. By the third day, Tram started experiencing feelings of regret, labeling the situation a "stupid affair" that had gotten out of hand. Des...

 NIGERIA POLICE FORCE RESCUES TWO COLOMBIAN NATIONALS, DISMANTLES CRIMINAL HIDEOUT IN LAGOS ​In a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against transnational organized crime, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the National Central Bureau (NCB-INTERPOL), Lagos Annex, have successfully rescued two foreign nationals lured to Nigeria and held captive by a human trafficking syndicate. ​The successful operation followed actionable intelligence received from INTERPOL-NCB, Bogotá, on August 26, 2026, regarding two female citizens of Colombia, identified as Maria Camila Rodas Ortiz and Yuliet Fernanda Rios Mesa. The victims were fraudulently lured to Nigeria, held against their will, and had their travel documents confiscated by certain Chinese nationals who are currently at large. ​Upon receipt of the intelligence, police operatives promptly launched a covert tracking operation, locating the hideout in Lagos where both victims were safely rescued on the same day. The flee...

 OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA TROOPS NEUTRALIZE TERRORISTS, RECOVER WEAPONS AND MOTORCYCLES IN SOKOTO STATE Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA successfully neutralized 2 terrorists and recovered weapons and motorcycles during a fierce engagement with terrorists in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The operation followed credible intelligence received in the early hours of 28 August 2026 on movement of terrorists conveying hundreds of rustled cattle through Maikujera general area of Rabah LGA. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops of Sector 2 moved to intercept and attack the terrorist. While advancing towards the identified area, the troops encountered an ambush staged by the terrorists. Troops responded decisively, fought through the ambush with superior firepower and neutralized 2 terrorists, forcing the remaining elements to flee into the surrounding bushes. Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of 2 AK-47 rifles and 3 motorc...

 A message from The King following the demise of King Harald V of Norway.  It is with the deepest sorrow that my wife and I have received the news of the death of my dear cousin, King Harald V of Norway. For thirty-five years, King Harald served his people with unwavering dedication and led Norway through times of major changes with warmth and humility. As Norway mourns the loss of such a devastating figure, my entire family joins in the memory of a much-loved relative and friend, whose kindness, compassion and deep sense of duty resonated across the seas and through the decades. Great Britain and Norway share particularly close historical and familiar bonds. Great Britain was one of the first countries to recognize Norway's independence establish diplomatic relations in 1905. These special connections were further strengthened through the horrific ordeal of World War ll and helped to tie our two countries even closer together. The Queen and I send our deepest and most heartfe...

 NPC CHAIRMAN, DR. AMINU WUSHISHI DIES AT 66 The National Population Commission has announced the death of its Chairman, Dr. Aminu Yusuf Wushishi. In a statement by the Director of Public Affairs, Adelayo Olurode, the Commission says Dr. Wushishi passed away in Abuja on Friday, 28 August 2026, after a brief illness. Aged 66. Dr. Wushishi, a former Secretary of the Niger State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, officially assumed office as Chairman of the National Population Commission on 2 December 2025. He succeeded Nasir Isa Kwarra, whose tenure as Chairman of the Commission came to an end in December 2025. Dr. Wushishi is expected to be buried on Saturday, 29 August 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites

 Info Minister Urges Media To Promote Isuue-Based Campaigns As political activities are gradually picking up ahead of the 2027 general election in Nigeria, the Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris has urged the media to promote peaceful and issue-based campaigns rather than becoming platforms for hate speech, misinformation and disinformation. The Minister gave the appeal at a joint press briefing as parts of activities commemorating Taraba State 35th anniversary held in Jalingo.  Salihu Abdullahi Gwanara reports that the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas at the briefing gave account of his administration’s journey so far and unveiled the state's development master plan. In their joint appeals they want political campaigns to provide citizens with reliable information to assess candidates and their policies urging the media to protect democracy, strengthen public trust and ensure that political campaigns remain focused on issues rather than divisi...

 VP SHETTIMA OPTS FOR LOW-KEY CELEBRATION ON 60TH BIRTHDAY; NO MEDIA ADVERTS PLACEMENT As Vice President Kashim Shettima marks his 60th birthday on September 2, 2026, he has appealed to friends, associates and well-wishers to refrain from placing congratulatory advertisements on newspapers, radio, television or digital platforms. In a Statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkowcha, VP Shettima said his decision to keep the milestone low-key reflects his conviction that public attention should remain focused on the serious work of national development rather than on personal celebrations. The Statement notes, rather than celebrate him through elaborate events or paid advertisements, VP Shettima urges well-wishers to channel their goodwill into prayers for Nigeria and for the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He specifically calls for prayers for the success of the administration’s economic ...

 NIGER STATE POLICE COMMAND ARRESTS 6 SUSPECTS LINKED TO INTER-STATE KIDNAPPING SYNDICATE The Niger State Police Command says it has  arrested six suspects allegedly linked to an inter-state kidnapping syndicate operating along the Suleja and Kontagora axis, with links to Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi States. In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects allegedly used private vehicles to offer unsuspecting passengers lifts before drugging and abducting them to hideouts in neighbouring states. It adds, investigation followed the abduction of a woman and her baby in Suleja on February 7, 2026. According to the police, the kidnappers demanded 50 million naira and collected 9.5 million naira before the woman escaped. It notes the suspects later used the abandoned phone and ATM card of the Suleja victim to demand another 10.5 million naira from a woman abducted in Shagari, Sokoto State, while travelling to Kontagora. The suspects were arrested b...

 Gunfire, explosions heard near military base in Niger capital Gunfire and explosions were heard on Saturday morning in Niger's capital, Niamey, including around a military base near the city's airport, which has been attacked twice this year by suspected terrorists. The origins of Saturday's shooting were not immediately clear and authorities made no official comment. "There is heavy gunfire and explosions at Base 101 in Niamey," one local resident told AFP, a report confirmed by several other witnesses. The first shots were heard at about 1:00 am local time (0000 GMT) and continued until daybreak, according to a video published by a local journalist filming the area around the airport. Another resident in the west of Niamey said he heard sporadic small arms fire at about 5:00 am. Security deployment Several social media posts also reported shooting and explosions in the city, particularly in the administrative area where the presidential palace and national tele...