1. Bauchi Declares Public Holiday to Honour Late Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi
Bauchi State declared today a work-free day to honour Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi, the respected Tijaniyyah scholar who died at 92. Thousands gathered for prayers as tributes from state and national leaders highlighted his lifelong commitment to peace and religious tolerance. Governor Bala Mohammed called him a stabilising force, while Vice President Kashim Shettima praised his behind-the-scenes efforts during tense national moments.
Mourners shared stories of his open-door policy where people of different faiths sought counsel, a gesture that shaped his reputation as a unifier. His family is now considering digitising his sermons to preserve his teachings for younger scholars and strengthen interfaith understanding.
2. Lakurawa Terrorists Kill Three Immigration Officers in Kebbi Attack
Three Nigeria Immigration Service officers were killed in an early morning attack on a border checkpoint in Bagudo LGA of Kebbi State. The attackers, believed to be linked to the Lakurawa network, opened fire, stole weapons and a patrol van, then escaped through forest paths along the Niger Republic corridor. Security agencies have launched a joint manhunt as cross-border incursions intensify.
The incident has reignited conversations about the vulnerability of rural border posts and long-standing gaps in intelligence gathering. Residents say the outposts remain soft targets, while experts argue that better cooperation with local communities could help block the movements of armed groups exploiting the porous frontier.
3. Nigerian Army Promotes 105 Senior Officers
The Nigerian Army announced the promotion of 105 officers, including 28 new Major Generals and 77 Brigadier Generals, in a move aimed at strengthening field leadership. The announcement followed a series of recent operations that saw improvements in rescue missions and counterinsurgency gains across the northwest and northeast.
Military officials say the elevation reflects a push to bring more technologically adaptable commanders into key roles. The new cohort is expected to drive reforms focused on better coordination, data-driven strategies, and more agile responses to threats from insurgent and bandit groups.
4. UN Raises Alarm Over 402 Abductions in North-Central States
The United Nations Human Rights Office has demanded a full investigation into the abduction of 402 people across Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, and Borno since November 17. Only 88 victims have been rescued or escaped, leaving hundreds still missing, many of them schoolchildren whose communities are already struggling with insecurity.
Aid organisations warn the situation is deepening food shortages and forcing schools to shut down as families relocate out of fear. The UN says coordinated action, stronger protection for rural education zones, and faster prosecutions are critical to halting the surge in mass kidnappings.
5. Nigeria Reclaims IMO Council Seat After 14 Years
Nigeria has reclaimed a seat on the International Maritime Organization Council after receiving 128 votes at the assembly in London. Transport Minister Adegboyega Oyetola led the lobbying effort that secured the win, restoring Nigeria’s voice in global maritime policymaking after more than a decade away.
Maritime experts say the victory strengthens Nigeria’s influence on piracy control, port reforms, and blue-economy investment. The seat is expected to attract fresh partnerships, especially in shipping modernisation, sustainable fisheries, and green maritime technology.
6. Nigerian Air Force Promotes 57 Senior Officers
The Nigerian Air Force has elevated 57 officers to the ranks of Air Vice Marshal and Air Commodore. The promotions recognise their work in drone operations, surveillance missions, and support for ground troops across key conflict zones in the northeast and northwest.
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Abubakar urged the newly promoted officers to deepen the use of data analytics and predictive intelligence as the Air Force expands aerial operations. Defence analysts believe the reshuffle will strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for rapid-response missions and precision targeting.
7. FCTA Orders Early Closure After Traffic Gridlock
Authorities in the Federal Capital Territory ordered the early closure of schools, government institutions, and some businesses after a massive gridlock paralysed key routes in Abuja. The standstill was triggered by ongoing road rehabilitation works that caused long delays across major intersections on Wednesday.
The FCTA says temporary diversions and traffic control measures will continue until the repairs are completed. Commuters have called for clearer communication and better planning to prevent such disruptions as roadworks intensify across the city.
