1. Super Eagles secure AFCON 2025 bronze after penalty win over Egypt
Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated Egypt 4–2 on penalties to claim third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following a goalless draw after extra time at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved spot-kicks from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush to decide the encounter, handing Nigeria its ninth AFCON bronze medal and extending its unbeaten record in third-place matches.
The playoff followed Nigeria’s semifinal exit against Morocco. The team scored 14 goals during the tournament, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman among the key contributors in earlier rounds.
2. Nasarawa police record arrests, rescues in anti-kidnapping operations
The Nasarawa State Police Command says it arrested 12 suspects and rescued seven kidnapped victims during security operations carried out between January 1 and January 17. The command said the operations targeted kidnapping and armed robbery networks across parts of the state.
Police authorities attributed the arrests to improved intelligence gathering, coordinated patrols, and cooperation from local communities, noting that investigations are ongoing.
3. 80 former militants surrender arms under Cross River amnesty programme
At least 80 former militants have surrendered arms and ammunition under the Cross River State amnesty programme. The handover took place on January 16 as part of efforts to encourage disarmament and reintegration in affected communities.
State officials said participants voluntarily turned in weapons following engagements with community leaders and programme coordinators, marking a reduction in armed activity in some riverine areas.
4. DSS rescues abducted pastors, arrests arms traffickers in Kaduna-Niger axis
Operatives of the Department of State Services have rescued two pastors and a church member abducted along the Kaduna–Niger border. The agency also confirmed the dismantling of an arms trafficking network linked to the kidnapping.
The operation followed intelligence-led surveillance and joint field action in the area. Security authorities said recovered items and suspects are being processed for further investigation.
5. Naira trades around N1,417 amid stable market conditions
The naira exchanged at approximately N1,417 to the US dollar on January 16, reflecting continued stability in the foreign exchange market. Economic projections by policy and research groups indicate expectations of relative stability into 2026, supported by external reserves, export growth, and oil production targets.
Recent data also show a moderation in inflation, following policy adjustments and improved supply conditions, according to international and domestic economic observers.
6. Rivers impeachment process stalls as court issues interim order
The Rivers State House of Assembly has confirmed that notices alleging gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy were forwarded to the Chief Judge, despite an existing court injunction. The governor’s aides have raised concerns over procedural compliance.
A Rivers State High Court has since issued an interim order directing parties to suspend impeachment-related actions, pending further hearings.
7. Ibadan explosion victims seek access to N30bn federal intervention fund
Victims and families affected by the recent Ibadan explosion have appealed for timely access to the N30 billion federal intervention fund announced by the government. The requests focus on medical treatment, housing repairs, and livelihood support.
Government officials have acknowledged the appeals and stated that verification and disbursement processes are underway to ensure accountability and proper distribution of relief funds.
