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2026 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day Begins Nationwide

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The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day officially commenced today, Friday, 9 January 2026, with special Juma’at prayers held simultaneously at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states of the federation, and in all military formations nationwide, marking the formal opening of a week-long programme dedicated to honouring the nation’s military heroes.

The commencement was announced in a press statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on Friday, setting the tone for a series of solemn, reflective and ceremonial activities scheduled to run from 9 to 15 January 2026. The celebrations are being held under the theme, “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” a theme deliberately chosen to underscore the critical role, professionalism and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the present dispensation.

At the special Juma’at services held today, prayers were offered for fallen heroes, serving personnel and the peace and unity of the nation, while sermons focused on sacrifice, patriotism and national cohesion.

Dignitaries expected at the opening ceremonies include the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, state Governors, Service Chiefs, senior government officials and veterans, reflecting the national significance attached to the remembrance activities.

According to the programme of events released by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, who also serves as the Director of the Joint Services Department of the Ministry of Defence, the celebrations will unfold across the country through a carefully structured sequence of religious, humanitarian, intellectual and ceremonial engagements.

Activities continue on Saturday, 10 January 2026, with a Humanitarian Outreach as well as Family and Community Day, scheduled to take place at major military barracks nationwide, including the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, and at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters.

The outreach programme, which begins at 10:00 am, is designed to strengthen civil-military relations and demonstrate the human and compassionate side of the Armed Forces through direct engagement with families, veterans and host communities.

On Sunday, 11 January 2026, attention will shift to Christian worship with a Special Thanksgiving and Interdenominational Church Service holding at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, as well as at military churches and designated churches across the 36 states. The service, scheduled for 2:00 pm, will provide an opportunity for thanksgiving, reflection and prayers for the nation, the Armed Forces and the families of fallen and serving personnel.

The intellectual component of the remembrance week comes up on Monday, 12 January 2026, with a National Symposium and Lecture Series at the National Defence College, Abuja, starting at 10:00 am. The symposium, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development,” is expected to examine the evolving role of the military in safeguarding national security while contributing to sustainable national development.

Celebrations will take on a ceremonial and social dimension on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, with a Gala and Award Night scheduled for the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The event will feature a red carpet reception from 5:00 pm, followed by the main programme at 6:00 pm, and is intended to recognise excellence, service and dedication within the Armed Forces and associated institutions.

The week-long activities will culminate on Thursday, 15 January 2026, the Armed Forces Remembrance Day proper, with a National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously in all state capitals across the federation.

The ceremony, which begins at 8:00 am, will feature wreath-laying by the President, the Vice-President, the Service Chiefs and members of the Diplomatic Corps. Other highlights include a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, a national minute of silence in honour of the fallen, and a ceremonial parade involving the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Legionnaires.

The Ministry of Defence described the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Week as a period dedicated to celebrating courage, fostering national unity and honouring sacrifice.

The programme, according to the ministry, carefully balances solemn remembrance with expressions of national pride, while showcasing the heroism, professionalism and humanity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, whose service continues to underpin the nation’s peace, security and collective identity.

News, Politics

FG’s Decade of Gas Gains Momentum as ALGON’s Lead Consultant Senator Igbeke Champions LPG Penetration for Local Communities

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Distinguished Senator Alphonsus Ubanesse Igbeke, Lead Consultant to the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), has hailed the Federal Government’s support for grassroots Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) penetration as he led the launch of the South-East LPG Penetration Programme and Cylinder Distribution, describing it as a major milestone in Nigeria’s clean-cooking and energy-transition agenda.

Senator Igbeke spearheaded the initiative in his capacity as head of the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP)/ALGON Technical Working Group at the landmark event hosted at the Landmark Event Center in Owerri by the Imo State Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Imo State Government off-takers.

The event was described as “a decisive step in the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas initiative,” a programme established to harness Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources for economic growth and energy transition, with significant progress targeted by 2030.

Widely acknowledged for his grassroots advocacy, Senator Igbeke stressed that effective collaboration among the Federal, State and Local Governments is essential to ensure that LPG reaches households nationwide. He described the initiative as “a cornerstone of Nigeria’s clean-cooking transition,” explaining that it is “designed to convert one million homes annually from traditional cooking methods to LPG, with the ambition of reaching over five million households nationwide by 2030.”

Earlier in the ceremony, the Imo State Governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and His Excellency Senator Dr. Hope Uzodimma for what she termed “such a timely intervention.” She pledged the support of Imolites and beneficiaries of the programme, noting that “vulnerable women and families are core beneficiaries,” and affirmed that Imo State “will continue to align its policy direction with that of the Federal Government, which shares a similar vision for sustainable energy and grassroots development.”

In his remarks, Senator Igbeke expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said “has created an enabling environment for sustainable energy access, particularly for rural communities.” FG’s Decade of Gas Gains Momentum as ALGON’s Lead Consultant Senator Igbeke Champions LPG Penetration for Local Communities

He further commended the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (Ph.D.), and the Permanent Secretary for their “unwavering support in driving the initiative to the grassroots.”

The press release noted that the NGEP/ALGON Technical Working Group under Senator Igbeke’s leadership “continues to expand natural-gas infrastructure across Nigeria, ensuring its use among vulnerable populations while aligning with national energy-security goals.” With the South-East launch, the group was said to be reinforcing “its role as the primary vehicle for delivering clean-cooking solutions to local communities,” while also “guaranteeing safe handling of LPG through manpower training, advocacy, risk analysis, and community engagement.”

Describing the programme as evidence of inclusive energy planning, the statement said, “The South-East LPG Penetration Programme stands as a testament to the Chairman’s NGEP/ALGON TWG commitment to inclusive energy strategies and his determination to ensure that no community is left behind in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable domestic energy.”

Senator Igbeke also thanked the ALGON National President, Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal, “for providing the enabling environment for women in local governments to take advantage of LPG distribution and extend clean-cooking solutions to rural households and communities nationwide.”

The ALGON Lead Consultant was accompanied at the event by ALGON’s Director of Finance and Accounts, Mallam Nuhu Ozigi.

Law and Order, News

CP Martins Nwogoh Extends Season’s Greetings As Police Airwing Reassures Nigerians of Yuletide Surveillance, Pledges Professional Policing

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The Commissioner of Police, Police Airwing Department, CP Martins Nwogoh fdc, psc, mnips, has extended warm Yuletide goodwill to Nigerians while assuring the public of continued professional, intelligence-driven and rights-compliant policing throughout the festive season and beyond.

In a press release signed by the Police Liaison Officer to the Commissioner of Police Airwing, DSP Usman Elizabeth, on December 24, 2025, the Police Airwing Department said it was fully committed to safeguarding lives and property during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

According to the statement, “The Police Airwing Department, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Martins Nwogoh, extend warm compliments of the season to the good people of Nigeria as the Yuletide festivities are celebrated.”

The release disclosed that the Airwing had intensified its operational readiness in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, as conveyed through NIGPOL DOPS. It stated that the directive had been fully complied with through strategic deployment of aerial assets.

“In compliance with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, NPM, directive as conveyed through NIGPOL DOPS, the Commissioner of Police, Airwing has successfully deployed helicopters for aerial surveillance and security operations during the Christmas and New Year festive period,” the statement said.

The Commissioner of Police further reassured Nigerians of the unwavering resolve of the Airwing Department to deliver effective security services anchored on professionalism and respect for the rule of law. The release quoted CP Nwogoh as affirming that “Airwing remains steadfast in its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the enforcement of the rule of law, and the delivery of professional, intelligence-driven, and human rights–compliant policing.”

Emphasising the standards guiding Airwing operations, the statement noted that, “Through strict adherence to due process and lawful investigative procedures, the Department continues to uphold professionalism, discipline, and integrity in all its operations.”

The Commissioner also called on citizens to actively support security efforts during the festive period by remaining vigilant and cooperative with law enforcement agencies. According to the press release, “The CP further urges members of the public to remain security-conscious, law-abiding, and cooperative with law enforcement agencies,” stressing that “timely and credible information from the public remains vital in supporting efforts to prevent and combat crime, especially during and after the festive period.”

As celebrations continue across the country, the Police Airwing assured Nigerians of its readiness to maintain peace and security into the New Year. The statement concluded with the assurance that “as Nigerians celebrate the season, the Commissioner Airwing assures the public of its continued dedication to justice, transparency, and accountability in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities and a crime-free New Year.”

Law and Order, News

The Era of Digital Efficiency Has Begun, Says Defence Minister Musa as Ministry Launches Enterprise Content Management System

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The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has declared that the era of physical file movement in the Ministry of Defence is gradually giving way to a new culture of digital efficiency, transparency and speed in service delivery.

The Minister made this assertion on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, during the official launch and “Go-Live” of the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS) at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

Addressing the management and staff of the Ministry, Musa charged them to fully embrace the new digital way of working, stressing that while technology provides the tools, staff dedication remains the true driver of success. He explained that the event was not merely the launch of a software application, but the commencement of a fundamental shift in how the Ministry conducts the business of national security.

According to the Minister, the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, identifies digital transformation and bureaucratic efficiency as critical pillars for national development. He emphasised that the civil service, as the engine room of government, must be modernised to meet global standards and effectively support the implementation of this agenda.

Musa commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, OON, mni, for her visionary leadership in setting December 31, 2025, as the deadline for all extra-ministerial departments and agencies to transition to paperless operations. He acknowledged that this milestone would not have been possible without the strategic partnership of Galaxy Backbone, praising its management for their technical expertise. He also lauded the Ministry’s ICT team for working tirelessly to ensure the success of the ECMS “Go-Live” project.

“You have provided the digital veins through which our administrative lifeblood will now flow,” the Minister said.

In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation described the launch of the ECMS as an initiative that would stand the test of time. She noted that any effort aimed at strengthening efficiency, accountability and secure information management within the civil service is worthy of commendation.

Mrs Walson-Jack stressed that for a ministry such as Defence, whose mandate lies at the core of national sovereignty and security, effective record management is indispensable. She said the event represented a deliberate and strategic statement of intent by a ministry responsible for defence policy formulation, strategic coordination, military administration and oversight of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Era of Digital Efficiency Has Begun, Says Defence Minister Musa as Ministry Launches Enterprise Content Management System

Commending the leadership of the Ministry for its foresight and resolve, she expressed particular encouragement at its commitment to digital content service delivery, noting that this aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which envisions a public service that is efficient, accountable, responsive and digitally enabled.

The Head of Service explained that the deployment of the ECMS on the 1Government Cloud marks a fundamental shift in the conduct of government business. Through the system, the Ministry will benefit from secure digital records, automated workflows, electronic approvals and enhanced interoperability. She added that decision-making would now be driven by timely access to information, rather than being delayed by the physical movement of files.

She further noted that the milestone positions the Ministry of Defence to meet the Federal Government’s directive for full digitalisation of work processes by December 31, 2025, while also advancing Pillar Five of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, which prioritises digitalisation across ministries, departments and agencies.

Speaking earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, described the ECMS launch as a critical step in the journey towards greater efficiency, transparency and collaboration within the Ministry. He stated that the 1Government Cloud ECMS is a sovereign digital solution designed to centralise content, enhance document security and empower staff with the tools required to perform their duties effectively.

Adeyanju added that the initiative aligns with Galaxy Backbone’s broader vision of transforming government operations by connecting MDAs nationwide through secure, reliable and intelligent digital platforms. According to him, the objective is to enable every user to work efficiently, securely and productively, thereby improving service delivery to Nigerians.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, described the ECMS launch as a pivotal moment in the Ministry’s transition from paper-based operations to a fully digital, paperless environment. He said the shift represents a strategic move, noting that efficiency in defence administration directly impacts national security.

Pheelangwa explained that by adopting the ECMS, the Ministry is ensuring faster movement of files, timely processing of approvals and improved handling of sensitive data with speed, accuracy and maximum security. He acknowledged that the collaboration with Galaxy Backbone has been instrumental in building an infrastructure resilient enough to support the demands of a paperless ministry.

He concluded by outlining the key benefits of the ECMS to include improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, transparency and accountability, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

News, Politics

52nd NEC Meeting: ALGON Pushes for Safer Communities and Sustainable Local Development

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The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening security, boosting food production and advancing sustainable development at the grassroots, following the conclusion of its 52nd National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting held on December 18, 2025, at the Blue Springs Hotel, Central Business District, Abuja.

At the meeting, which lasted over six hours, the NEC deliberated on pressing national and local government concerns, with particular attention to the escalating insecurity and kidnappings across the country.

The Council expressed grave concern over the abduction of children, mothers and other vulnerable citizens, condemning the acts in strong terms.

The resolutions were contained in a statement signed by the ALGON National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Anani Hamisu, on December 19, 2025.52nd NEC Meeting: ALGON Pushes for Safer Communities and Sustainable Local Development

While acknowledging the efforts of the Federal and State Governments, the NEC urged them, alongside security agencies, to intensify intelligence gathering, deploy modern and state-of-the-art equipment, strengthen search-and-rescue operations and expand community policing initiatives to enhance collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities.

ALGON stressed that restoring public confidence in security is critical to governance, noting that the inability to protect citizens undermines all other government responsibilities. In this context, the Council acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in addressing national security and economic challenges, while calling for increased protection of vulnerable populations, particularly within Local Government Areas that remain porous and exposed. The NEC reaffirmed its optimism about strengthening local governance and pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government, State Governments and Development Partners to ensure effective service delivery at the grassroots. ALGON

On agriculture and food security, the NEC highlighted the poor condition of rural roads and the shortage of agricultural equipment as major challenges confronting farmers. The Council resolved to explore broad partnerships and all available avenues for agricultural development in support of Federal and State Government initiatives aimed at promoting food security. It emphasized the need to support farmers with modern tools, access to credit facilities and adequate security to enhance productivity and sustain rural livelihoods.

Healthcare delivery also featured prominently in the deliberations, with the NEC underscoring that functional healthcare facilities remain central to ALGON’s priorities. The Council committed to strengthening partnerships with UNICEF, Fred & Fred and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to improve and expand healthcare services across the 774 Local Government Areas and Area Councils nationwide.

The NEC further regretted the poor state of projects in many Local Governments and called for urgent interventions to bridge infrastructural gaps. It emphasized the importance of upscaling Internally Generated Revenue through innovative strategies to reduce overdependence on federal allocations and improve financial sustainability at the local level.

Addressing the growing challenge of youth unemployment, the Council described the situation as a pressing concern requiring targeted empowerment programmes at the grassroots. The NEC appealed to the Federal Government to ensure inclusive employment plans that would enable Local Government Areas to present qualified candidates for ongoing and future recruitment exercises across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

In addition, the NEC announced plans to hold ALGON Week and the General Assembly next year, describing the events as platforms designed to introduce innovation into the association’s activities. The Council also inaugurated the Northern Forum of ALGON, the Progressive Exco and the Women’s Wing, known as WALGON Excos, in Abuja. The Wife of the ALGON National President, Hajiya Zainab Musa Umar, emerged as the Woman President alongside other officers.

In closing, the NEC reaffirmed ALGON’s commitment to unity, growth and effective grassroots governance, pledging to continue working with all stakeholders to address pressing national challenges and to strengthen the role of Local Governments in Nigeria’s overall development.

Law and Order, News

HURIWA Slams NANS, Shinkafi Over Attacks On Matawalle, Says “Go Back to Class, Face Real Student Issues”

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has dismissed recent calls by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and a former governorship candidate in Zamfara State, Alhaji Sani Shinkafi demanding the sack of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing the attacks as politically motivated, misplaced and diversionary.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwuniko, HURIWA described the threats of nationwide protests by NANS over demands for Matawalle’s removal as reckless, unserious and far removed from the core mandate of a student body. The group accused NANS of acting as political errand runners rather than advocates for students’ welfare and the improvement of Nigeria’s failing education sector.

HURIWA advised NANS and its leadership to “return to classrooms and lecture halls” and refocus on issues that directly affect students, including poor funding of education, decaying infrastructure in universities, incessant strikes, and the alarming decline in academic standards. According to the group, Nigerian universities are increasingly being reduced to the level of glorified primary schools due to chronic underfunding and neglect.

“The duty of NANS is not to issue ultimatums to the President or to campaign for the sack of ministers. Their responsibility is to defend the interests of Nigerian students whose future is being mortgaged by poor budgeting for education, overcrowded classrooms, ill-equipped laboratories and demoralised lecturers,” HURIWA said.

The rights group noted that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has consistently raised concerns about inadequate funding and the collapse of academic standards, stressing that these are the areas where NANS should be deploying its energy and influence. It added that protests should be channelled towards demanding better learning conditions, improved welfare for students and lecturers, and meaningful reforms in the education sector.

“NANS should stop grandstanding and playing to the gallery of politicians. They should work with lecturers, engage policymakers constructively and fight for a system that guarantees quality education and a secure future for Nigerian students. Threatening protests over the fate of a minister is not only misplaced, it is irresponsible,” HURIWA stated.

On the criticisms coming from Alhaji Sani Shinkafi Shinkafi, HURIWA described his interventions as overtly political and driven by partisan interests rather than genuine concern for national security. The group pointed out that Zamfara State remains a hotbed of intense political rivalry between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and that Shinkafi’s comments must be understood within that context.

HURIWA noted that Shinkafi, now aligned with the PDP in Zamfara State after previously belonging to APGA, is widely perceived as working in the political interest of the incumbent administration in the state. According to the group, his repeated attacks on Matawalle are linked to growing fears within rival political camps that the former Zamfara governor and current Minister could emerge as a strong contender under the APC platform in the 2027 gubernatorial election.

“When Shinkafi speaks on Matawalle, Nigerians must listen with discernment. This is not a neutral intervention. It is a politically coloured attack rooted in Zamfara’s fierce power contest. Shinkafi’s political journey, from APGA to his current alignment, shows clearly where his interests lie,” HURIWA said.

The association warned against the politicisation of security matters and cautioned that reckless accusations and public grandstanding could undermine national stability. It urged all actors to allow due process, evidence-based assessments and institutional mechanisms to address security challenges rather than turning them into tools for political warfare.

HURIWA reaffirmed its position that criticism of public officials must be anchored on facts, national interest and respect for democratic institutions, not partisan fear or opportunism.

The group called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate public opinion through politically driven narratives, insisting that both students’ bodies and political actors must act responsibly in the interest of the nation.

Breaking News

Matawalle: HURIWA Faults Online Smear, Warns Against Politicising National Security

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned what it described as a coordinated wave of social media harassment, cyberbullying and politically motivated attacks against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, following the recent circulation of an old video taken out of context.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA said the renewed attempts to portray Matawalle as a sympathiser of terrorists were dishonest, malicious and driven by partisan interests rather than any genuine concern for national security or accountability.

HURIWA noted that the video being recycled was recorded in 2021 when Matawalle was Governor of Zamfara State and reflected a policy approach at the time aimed at de-escalating violence and protecting vulnerable communities caught between armed groups and vigilante excesses. According to the rights group, reducing such complex security conversations to simplistic soundbites years later is a deliberate effort to misinform the public and incite hatred.

The association stressed that it is both intellectually lazy and morally reckless to equate efforts at conflict resolution, dialogue or intelligence-led engagement with criminal endorsement. It argued that modern counterinsurgency strategies across the world recognise that understanding the drivers of violence does not amount to justifying it.

HURIWA observed that the timing of the renewed attacks is suspicious, coming shortly after the resignation of the former Minister of Defence on health grounds and the subsequent appointment of General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister. The organisation said it is not coincidental that these narratives resurfaced at a moment of transition within the defence architecture, suggesting a deliberate attempt to sow discord and weaken public confidence in the Tinubu administration.

According to HURIWA, the campaign against Matawalle bears the clear fingerprints of political vendetta, particularly from individuals and groups unsettled by his political relevance, his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his continued influence in Zamfara State politics. The group said some of the attacks are also rooted in calculations ahead of future electoral contests in Zamfara, where Matawalle remains a formidable political force.

HURIWA maintained that since assuming office as Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle has demonstrated commitment to the collective security agenda of the Tinubu administration, working within established military and intelligence frameworks rather than acting as a lone political actor. The association said attempts to reduce national security challenges to personal scapegoating ignore the institutional nature of defence operations and the shared responsibility of multiple agencies.

The rights group further described the attacks as part of a broader anti-Tinubu campaign by political adversaries who, unable to confront the President directly, have chosen to target some of his most loyal and visible allies. According to HURIWA, Matawalle has become a fallback target for those seeking to undermine the President by proxy, precisely because of his reputation as one of Tinubu’s most steadfast political foot soldiers.

HURIWA warned that normalising cyberbullying, misinformation and character assassination against public officials without evidence poses a serious threat to democratic discourse and national cohesion. It urged Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate criticism and orchestrated disinformation designed to inflame emotions and destabilise governance.

The association also faulted calls for Matawalle’s resignation, describing them as baseless and unjustified. Instead, HURIWA said that an objective assessment of his political service and loyalty to the current administration would warrant recognition rather than vilification.

“Rather than campaigning for Dr Matawalle to be sacked, those who genuinely care about good governance should be demanding that President Tinubu elevate him to a senior ministerial position,” HURIWA stated. “He has shown uncommon dedication, political discipline and loyalty to the President and the ruling party, qualities that are essential for stability in any administration.”

HURIWA concluded by calling on security agencies to remain focused on their constitutional duties and not be distracted by online noise, while urging social media users to exercise restraint and responsibility. The group reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic institutions, rule of law and fairness, warning that weaponising misinformation against public officials ultimately undermines national security and democracy itself.

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Nigeria Strengthens Global Security Alliances with Saudi Defence MoU

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In a decisive step toward deepening international security collaboration, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen defence and military cooperation between both nations.

The agreement, concluded on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bolster its defence architecture and expand global partnerships.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, represented Nigeria at the signing ceremony, while Saudi Arabia was represented by its Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, Dr. Khaled H. Al-Biyari. Both officials signed on behalf of their respective governments after extended technical and diplomatic engagements.Nigeria Strengthens Global Security Alliances with Saudi Defence MoU

Speaking at the event, Dr. Matawalle described the pact as a long-awaited breakthrough. “The signing of this MoU is a significant milestone,” he said. “It has been on the drawing board for some time, and its conclusion will strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and enhance the capacity of our armed forces.”

The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for defence collaboration over an initial five-year period, with the option for review and renewal for an additional five years. It also includes a provision allowing either country to terminate the agreement with at least three months’ written notice through diplomatic channels.

Under the new pact, both nations will cooperate in key strategic areas such as military training, joint exercises, intelligence sharing, technical assistance, logistics, and other mutually agreed defence initiatives. The Ministry of Defence noted that the partnership is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s security capabilities.

Among the anticipated benefits are expanded opportunities for capacity building through specialised training exchanges and professional military education; improved operational effectiveness arising from shared doctrines and joint drills; and strengthened counter-terrorism and internal security operations through deeper intelligence collaboration and coordinated efforts against violent extremism and organised crime.

Describing the MoU as both practical and strategic, the Ministry affirmed that the agreement will support Nigeria’s long-term goals in security, defence modernisation, and regional stability.

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Defence Permanent Secretary, Pheelangwa, Hosts Guests at Son’s Wedding in Abuja

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The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelamilo Pheelangwa, was joined by family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers on Saturday, December 6, 2025, to celebrate the wedding of his son, Mubarak, and his bride, Kate, in Abuja. Defence Permanent Secretary, Pheelangwa, Hosts Guests at Son’s Wedding in Abuja

The church wedding ceremony was held at ECWA Goodnews Church, PW, Kubwa, where guests gathered to witness the couple’s union and share in their joy.

Following the church ceremony, a reception was held at the Evelyn’s Hall, Gwarimpa, Abuja. The venue was filled with guests who came together to honour and celebrate the couple’s joyful union.

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Defence Minister Badaru Attends North-West Security Summit in Kaduna

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Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, participated in the North-West Zonal Security Summit held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall, Kaduna. The event was organized by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on National Security to foster dialogue on security challenges and collaborative solutions within the region.

In his keynote goodwill message, Minister Badaru reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda with national security, unity, and community resilience as core pillars. He highlighted the President’s vision of a harmonious society built on shared prosperity, mutual tolerance, and equal respect for every Nigerian.

Minister Badaru emphasized the critical need for a robust and adaptive national security framework, noting the significant progress made through enhanced synergy among security agencies and stakeholders.

He stressed that national security is a collective responsibility that demands active involvement from citizens, communities, and state governments alike.

Acknowledging the indispensable role of state governors as Chief Security Officers, the Minister praised their provision of logistics support, implementation of early-warning systems, and community engagement initiatives. He further commended traditional rulers for fostering trust and facilitating mediation processes, women and youth groups for their pivotal roles in community vigilance and recovery efforts, as well as religious leaders and civil society organizations for combating misinformation and advancing peace and reintegration efforts.

Reinforcing the President’s directives, the Minister called for sustained momentum among the Armed Forces and all security agencies to deepen interagency collaboration, enhance intelligence sharing, and bolster protection for schools and rural communities. He also lauded the Senate for convening the summit, underscoring its importance in promoting transparency, national dialogue, and accountability in the security sector.

The Minister concluded by assuring all stakeholders that the Ministry of Defence remains fully committed to collaborating with summit partners to strengthen stability, build community confidence, and advance the Renewed Hope Agenda across the North-West zone.

The summit was well-attended by key figures including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, representatives of other state governors, traditional rulers, Ulama, civil society organizations, and other prominent stakeholders.