The Nigerian Army has rescued 1,023 kidnapped victims, recovered 189 AK-47 guns and 4,338 rounds of ammunition during various operations in the North-west in 2025. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Sokoto, Ibikunle Ajose, disclosed this at the presentation of awards as part of the closing ceremony of West African Social Activities (WASA) on Wednesday in Sokoto. Mr Ajose, a major general, said the successes were recorded by the Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) in the fight against terrorism and banditry in the region. “Within the year ending, troops have successfully rescued 1,023 kidnapped victims, Recovered 189 AK-47 rifles and 4,338 rounds of ammunition. ”Others included seizure of 305 motorcycles used by bandits, recovery of 4,123 stolen livestock and neutralization of several high-profile bandit leaders,” Mr Ajose said. He said the efforts have restored security and economic confidence in the region, enabling farmers and citizens to resume their daily activities without fear. The GOC attributed the successes to the unwavering dedication of personnel of the Division and the strategic leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu.… BREAKING: Army rescues 1,023 kidnap victims, recovers 189 guns in northwest Nigeria

A fire outbreak on Tuesday evening gutted a section of the popular Arena Market in Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos State and destroyed about 10 shops. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Controller General, Mrs Margaret Adeseye. According to the statement, the Service received a distress call at about 5:50 p.m. reporting a fire outbreak at the market, prompting the immediate deployment of firefighting units.  The responders arrived at the scene within five minutes, at approximately 5:55 p.m. Adeseye said the fire affected a section of the market comprising five 40-foot container shops arranged in two rows, bringing the total number of affected shops to 10. She explained that the shops were mainly used for the storage and sale of clothing materials, which were stocked in bales. She added that the swift intervention of firefighters ensured the blaze was contained and prevented from spreading to other parts of the market. “The situation is firmly under control, and there is no risk of the fire spreading to other parts of the market,” the statement said. Adeseye assured members… Fire razes 10 shops at Oshodi’s Arena market 

The United States, in joint operations with the Nigerian military, launched Christmas Day airstrikes that have reportedly delivered a serious setback to notorious bandit groups operating around the Sokoto–Zamfara axis of northwest Nigeria. Security sources familiar with the operation said the strikes targeted terrorist hideouts located in forested areas linking Sokoto State, Zamfara State and parts of the Niger Republic, long identified as strongholds for armed bandit leaders responsible for mass kidnappings, killings and cattle rustling in the region. According to information gathered by VibesLyfe on Monday, Bello Turji, one of the most feared bandit leaders in northwest Nigeria, is believed to have been killed in the operation. Turji has long been responsible for deadly assaults on rural communities and security personnel across Zamfara and surrounding states. Although official casualty figures have not yet been released by Nigerian or U.S. authorities, preliminary intelligence. Confided by sources indicates that several high-value targets were eliminated in the strikes, marking one of the most impactful operations against bandit leadership in recent years. The Christmas Day operation follows growing military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in… “US–Nigeria Joint Christmas Airstrikes Cripple Bandit Networks in Northwest Nigeria”

Shock gripped Makun on Monday as Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua was involved in a road accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. Witnesses said the boxer’s vehicle crashed into a stationary truck. According to The VIBESLYFE, the Lexus SUV conveying the boxer, with registration number KRD 850 HN, was said to have crashed under circumstances that are still being investigated by authorities. A source, who was part of the rescue operation, said Joshua sustained “minor injuries” in the accident, adding that “two people died on the spot.” Another eyewitness, Adeniyi Orojo, said the crash happened “just before Danco Filling Station” along the expressway. However, as of the time of filing this report, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babasey, did not respond to calls seeking comment on the incident. Joshua recently defeated Jake Paul in a heavyweight clash tagged “Judgment Day,” which took place on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Kaseya Center in Miami.

Fines SA has warned motorists about a rise in fraudulent SMS messages claiming recipients have unpaid traffic fines. The scam messages urge immediate payment and often include links to fake websites designed to resemble official municipal or traffic fine platforms. Barry Berman, CEO of Fines SA, said there has been a surge in motorists contacting the organisation to verify whether such messages are legitimate. “These SMSs are made to look authentic and are intended to create urgency and panic,” Berman said. “Once a motorist clicks the link and makes a payment on an unsafe site, the money is lost and no fine is actually paid.” In these scams, motorists typically receive an SMS or WhatsApp message warning of an outstanding fine or imminent penalties. The link provided leads to a cloned website that closely resembles an official payment platform. A key red flag is that these links do not direct users to www.finessa.co.za, which is Fines SA’s only official website. Fines SA is urging motorists to exercise caution and independently verify any fine-related messages before taking action. Payments should only be made through secure, verified… “Beware: Fraudsters sending fake traffic fine alerts by SMS.”

At least 12 people were killed and three others abducted after gunmen attacked a mining site in Atoso village, Plateau State, on Tuesday night, a local group leader said on Wednesday. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, leader of the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), said the attackers—identified by residents as armed Fulani militias—also left five people hospitalised with gunshot wounds. Police spokesperson Alfred Alabo confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing. The attack highlights the persistent insecurity in Plateau State, a flashpoint in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where long-running ethnic and religious tensions have fueled deadly clashes between farmers and herders despite repeated government assurances of restoring peace. Tuesday’s attack came just days after four children were killed in a nearby village, Mwantiri said, accusing authorities of ignoring early warning signs. The BYM is urging the government to deploy more security forces to enforce a ban on open grazing, and rescue the abducted victims.

United Bank for Africa (UBA) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lag ride and the Lagos State Government for a $100 million facility aimed at deploying 3,500 vehicles to support Lag ride’s ride-hailing operations in Lagos. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, UBA Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, said the agreement formalised a strategic partnership between UBA Plc, Lagride and the Lagos State Government. He explained that the collaboration aims to finance up to 3,500 vehicles for Lagride drivers operating across Lagos State. Alawuba said the initiative would allow at least 3,500 drivers to move from renting vehicles to owning their own cars within a four-year period. He described the programme as a significant step toward economic empowerment, adding that it would be supported by structured and professional driver training. According to him, the training is expected to promote discipline, orderliness and improved road conduct in Lagos, while offering passengers a safer and more secure ride experience. He added that the initiative would deepen financial inclusion and drive growth and shared prosperity for all stakeholders. He noted that the $100 million… “UBA, Lagos State, Lagride Sign $100m Deal to Empower 3,500 Drivers.”

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has demanded the immediate termination of a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the French tax authority, Direction Générale des Finances Publiques, warning that the agreement poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and national security. In an open letter addressed to the Federal Government, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, NEF described the MoU as a “dangerous tax data agreement” that could place Nigeria’s most sensitive financial information under foreign control. The letter was signed by NEF spokesperson, Prof. Abubakar Jiddere. “The Northern Elders Forum writes today with grave concern and a profound sense of patriotic duty,” the letter reads. “This MoU is far from a harmless technical collaboration. It represents an unprotected gateway into the core of Nigeria’s tax infrastructure, potentially putting our most sensitive economic data in the hands of a foreign power whose historical engagements in Africa have frequently led to economic manipulation, political pressure, and strategic domination.” The forum warned that granting France access to Nigeria’s tax data undermines the country’s economic independence and could… Northern Elders Urge Swift Termination of Controversial FIRS-France Tax Agreement

NNPC Targets 2.06m bpd Oil Output in 2026, Praises PINL Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) yesterday confirmed that it had successfully contained the fire that affected a section of the Escravos–Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) in South-West Warri, Delta State, last week. The national oil firm earlier reported an explosion around 17:50 hours on December 10, 2025, near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. Initial assessments indicated a pressure drop consistent with a loss of containment on a pipeline operated by NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC). NNPC stressed that the cause of the explosion remains unknown and will be determined following a detailed investigation. The company emphasized that its immediate priority was the safety of nearby communities and environmental protection. “Emergency response procedures have been activated, and we are working closely with relevant authorities and community leaders to ensure a coordinated approach to mitigate the impact. NNPC Ltd remains committed to the highest safety and environmental standards,” the company said in a statement by its spokesman, Andy Odeh.… NNPC Executes Containment Measures Following Escravos–Lagos Gas Pipeline Explosion

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi is expected to formally leave the party this week, following months of unresolved leadership disputes and internal divisions. Obi’s departure stems from the prolonged instability within the Labour Party, which has struggled with factional leadership, ongoing court battles, and lack of cohesion since the 2023 elections. The move has intensified speculation about his next political platform, though no final decision has been publicly confirmed. POLITICS NIGERIA reports that several opposition parties have reached out to the former Anambra State governor, but talks remain fluid. While Obi has been linked to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), internal issues and emerging party alignments may delay any immediate move. Sources say he is weighing options that provide political freedom and a clear path forward, rather than joining an established party with entrenched interests. The Labour Party crisis, centered on disputes over former National Chairman Julius Abure’s tenure, has left the party fractured with parallel executives claiming legitimacy. Those close to Obi believe his continued presence has inadvertently fueled the internal power struggle. Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign transformed the Labour Party from… Peter Obi Poised to Exit Labour Party Amid Lingering Leadership Crisis

A mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday claimed the lives of 15 people, including a rabbi, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl, as a Hanukkah celebration turned into a scene of horror. Police say the attack left 40 injured, with the gunman shot dead by authorities. Among the 15 victims of a mass shooting at Australia’s Bondi Beach targeting an event marking the Jewish festival of Hanukkah on Sunday were a rabbi who was a father of five, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old-girl, according to interviews, officials and local media reports. Some 40 people were taken to hospital, including two police and four children, one of whom later died from her wounds. Police say the attack was carried out by a father and son, and their victims’ ages ranged from as young as 10 to 87. The 50-year-old alleged gunman was killed by police. Following are details of those killed: Rabbi Eli Schlanger Schlanger 41, was assistant rabbi at Chabad Bondi, which put on the event. Chabad is a global Jewish organisation whose mission is to foster Jewish identity and connection. Schlanger was British born but had lived… From a 10-Year-Old Girl to a Holocaust Survivor: What We Know About the Bondi Beach Shooting Victims

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has expressed its readiness to share its six decades of professional experience with the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN). The ICAN President, Dr. Yahaya Nma Haruna, stated this during a courtesy visit by CIFCFIN to ICAN’s global headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos. He welcomed the delegation and noted that, despite initial concerns about extending collaboration to emerging professional bodies, ICAN remains open to partnership. Dr. Haruna said ICAN is willing to collaborate with CIFCFIN and deploy its Forensic Faculty to offer guidance, drawing on its status as a recognised leader in forensic accounting and auditing. He also advised CIFCFIN to sustain collaboration with other established professional bodies. Earlier, CIFCFIN’s Founder and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbaki, called for closer cooperation and experience sharing between both institutes. He commended ICAN’s leadership for maintaining high professional standards over the past 60 years, adding that CIFCFIN seeks to tap into ICAN’s vast experience to strengthen its professional engagements. According to him, the Establishment Act of CIFCFIN does not in any way… ICAN Set to Share Six Decades of Professional Experience with CIFCFIN

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja urged Nigerian youths to boldly pursue their ambitions for national and global relevance, assuring them that the Federal Government will continue to support innovative initiatives. He emphasized that creativity and innovation remain key tools for young people to gain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving world shaped by digital and emerging technologies. The President delivered the message at the unveiling of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA GIGS) platform and the Grant Award Ceremony, organized by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development under the theme: “One Youth, Two Skills.” The programme is designed to support 300 young Nigerians by providing grants to 200 from the formal sector and 100 from the informal sector of the economy. The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, emphasised that youths are central to his administration’s developmental agenda, restating the commitment to ensuring the younger generation continues the task of nation-building, promoting innovation, skills acquisition, and talent nurturing. “Build boldly, innovate courageously, scale fearlessly. You are the generation that will continue the task of building this nation. I am… Tinubu Encourages Youths to Dream Big and Keep Innovating in a Competitive World

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has responded publicly to the growing debate over her interaction with Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, during the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife. The ceremony, held on Sunday in Ile-Ife, marked a decade on the throne for Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi and included the conferment of the Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua title on the First Lady. However, celebrations took an unexpected turn following a tense exchange between Mrs Tinubu and Governor Adeleke. As the governor stepped forward to deliver his remarks, he began by singing praises to the monarch and the First Lady. She cut in, saying, “Enough with the music, or I’ll switch off the microphone,” before directing him to “conclude in five minutes.” A video of the moment quickly went viral, sparking widespread criticism from Nigerians who considered her tone confrontational and unnecessary. Amid the backlash, Mrs Tinubu addressed the controversy late Monday via her Facebook page, sharing a picture of herself standing beside Governor Adeleke. She noted that public office holders are often judged more harshly, with minor actions easily exaggerated. “Those… Remi Tinubu Speaks Out on Her Dispute With Osun Governor Adeleke

At least 11 people have been killed in a mass shooting at a hostel in South Africa. Fourteen others were injured when gunmen stormed the venue in Saulsville township, west of the capital, Pretoria, early on Saturday. A three-year-old child was among those killed. “At least three unknown gunmen entered the hostel, where a group of people were drinking, and started shooting indiscriminately,” police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said. The motive behind the attack is unclear, and no arrests have been made. This incident is the latest in a series of mass shootings in South Africa, a country that has seen a rise in violent crime in recent years. The gunmen reportedly arrived around 04:30 local time (14:30 GMT) and opened fire on a group of men drinking at the illegal hostel. Among the dead were a 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl. “I can confirm that a total of 25 people were shot,” Mathe added. Describing the hostel as an “illegal shebeen,” she noted, “We face serious challenges with illegal and unlicensed liquor premises, which are often the sites of mass shootings. Innocent people… Deadly Attack in South Africa Claims 11 Lives

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has approved protection and security for Fernando Dias Da Costa, a presidential candidate in Guinea-Bissau’s November 2025 election, at the Nigerian Embassy in Guinea-Bissau. In a letter signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and addressed to the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Omar Touray, Tuggar stated that President Tinubu authorized the “provision of protection and security for the premises of the Nigerian Embassy in Guinea-Bissau.” The letter further explained that this decision is “a proactive measure to ensure the safety of Mr. Da Costa in response to imminent threats to his life.” This development comes after the military seized power in Guinea-Bissau through a coup, while citizens await the results of the presidential election. President Tinubu stated that the move also demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to “safeguard the democratic aspirations and the sovereign will of the people of Guinea-Bissau.” He further urged the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau to provide protection and security for Fernando Dias Da Costa while he remains at the Nigerian Embassy. Incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló had been contesting… Tinubu Grants ‘Protection’ to Guinea-Bissau Presidential Candidate at Nigerian Embassy Following Coup

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has stated that the current surge in abductions across Nigeria is a deliberate attempt to discourage President Bola Tinubu. Okpebholo argued that a similar strategy was reportedly used against former President Goodluck Jonathan and succeeded, but insisted that it would not work against the current administration. The governor’s remarks come amid a new surge of bandit-related abductions across the country. In November, armed bandits stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State, and kidnapped several worshippers during a service. In a separate attack, suspected bandits abducted 10 residents in the Biresawa and Tsundu communities of Tsanyawa Local Government Area in Kano State. Speaking to Igbo leaders at the Government House in Benin City, Okpebholo alleged that the recent kidnappings were driven by political motives. He said: “These kidnappings are happening because they want to frustrate the President, but he remains steadfast. “They are abducting people because someone wants to win an election. It’s unfair. They tried this with Goodluck Jonathan and succeeded, but we already understand their tactics.”

Dutch soldiers are to spend the next six months defending the skies over eastern Poland in what one officer has called “the grey zone between war and peace”. The 300 troops will take control of the Patriot missile defence system from Germany, which has been responsible for responding to potential Russian attacks for the last year. Former commander of the Dutch armed forces, Mart de Kruif, said they would be monitoring the skies “24 hours a day, seven days a week” for ballistic missiles, drones and other objects. “We have seen Nato airspace being infiltrated from the east, often by what we presume to be Russian drones,” De Kruif said. “Nato said at the time: this is the limit. We are going to intensify our air defences.” In September Dutch F-35 fighter jets were involved in shooting down Russian drones that crossed the Polish border during a major aerial attack on Ukraine. Eastern Poland is where Nato stores military hardware that its members have donated to Ukraine and co-ordinates the transport across the border. The Germans did not have cause to engage the Patriots in… Dutch soldiers to take charge of Patriot air defense in Poland

LASU Matriculates 14,893 Students, Vows Crackdown on Cultism and Vice The Lagos State University (LASU) on Monday matriculated 14,893 students, pledging to take decisive action against anyone involved in cultism or other vices. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, made the statement while addressing the students at the university’s main campus in Ojo during the matriculation ceremony. She urged the new students to be respectful, law-abiding, and serious about their studies, emphasizing the importance of discipline in university life. Prof. Olatunji-Bello said:“It is with great pleasure and appreciation to Almighty God that I welcome everyone to the 2025-2026 matriculation ceremony for the newly-admitted students of our world-class university.” “As young men and women desirous of a brighter future, it is expected that you abide by the university’s rules and regulations and remain committed to your studies. “Be regular in attending lectures, carry out all your assignments, shun deviant behaviours, avoid indecent dressing and carefully select your friends. “Bad friends destroy good habits, and our university has zero tolerance for cultism. She charged them to avoid examination malpractice, corruption, hooliganism and other vices. “Those found culpable will… LASU Matriculates 14,893 Students, Issues Stern Warning Against Cultism

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the global target of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2025 World AIDS Day. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, gave the assurance on Monday at the State House during the national commemoration themed “Overcoming Disruptions; Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.” The event was held in collaboration with the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). Salako stated that the government has introduced multiple programmes and invested over ₦300 billion to strengthen the national HIV/AIDS response and support health agencies across the country. He added that Nigeria had increased domestic funding for HIV interventions to reduce dependency on foreign aid, with expanded local production of antiretroviral drugs and test kits improving national self-sufficiency and long-term sustainability. Salako said HIV testing, counselling and treatment coverage continued to expand, with about 1.6 million Nigerians currently on antiretroviral therapy out of an estimated 1.9 million people living with the virus nationwide. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal… Nigeria Reaffirms Goal to End AIDS by 2030

Victory for Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze as He Takes Possession of Abuja Property Housing Cubana Lounge Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze finally took possession of Plot 81, Ademola Adetokumbo Crescent, Wuse 11, Abuja, last Friday, the property that houses the popular Cubana Lounge. Rev. Amakaeze has been engaged in a legal battle with businessman and social media celebrity Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, over the ownership of the prime property. However, an indication that he has finally succeeded became manifest last Friday as members of staff of the popular Lounge and others suspected to be hired hands were seen packing their properties from the building.  Also, a document indicating the enforcement order of court affirming ownership of the property was prominently pasted on the building. The eviction of the Cubana owned lounge from the property followed the enforcement of the judgment that confirmed Rev. Amakaeze as the landlord of the building.   A High Court of Federal Capital Territory sitting in Gwagwalada had in a judgment on 3rd July 2025 granted the right of possession of the property to Rev. Amakeze in a suit filed against SEMC-Investment… Court Order Enforced: Obi Cubana’s Lounge Evicted in Abuja ✅

Security Situation in Yagba Federal Constituency Worsens as Gunmen Abduct Worshippers The security situation in Yagba Federal Constituency, Kogi State, continues to deteriorate following a fresh attack on a church by gunmen, who abducted an undetermined number of worshippers. The assault occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 30 November, at New Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Ejiba, Yagba West Local Government Area (LGA). Worshippers had just arrived for service when the attackers stormed the church. Many managed to flee, but several, including the priest, known as Orlando, and his wife, were captured and taken into the bush. An eyewitness, Adegboyega Oguns, told social media platform EgbeMekun that the attack was serious:“It’s a new Cherubim and Seraphim church. The pastor, popularly called Orlando, and his wife, along with some others, have been kidnapped. It is serious. We all ran out of the church.” The incident highlights the growing security challenges in Kogi State. Just a day earlier, on Saturday, terrorists launched another attack along the Isanlu Makutu–Idofin corridor in Yagba East LGA, leaving residents and travelers in fear. Eyewitnesses said the attackers struck without warning, prompting… Gunmen Strike During Worship in Kogi, Several Abducted

Ecobank Nigeria moves to buy back its US$300m 7.125% bond as 2026 maturity nears. The bank in a statement said: “As at the date of this announcement, $150 million of the Notes remain outstanding. Ecobank Nigeria Limited announced that its proposed tender offer commenced on Friday, 28 November 2025, and is expected to settle on or before 31 December 2025. Noteholders who validly tender their Notes and have them accepted for purchase will receive $1,000 per $1,000 in principal, plus accrued and unpaid interest up to—but not including—the settlement date. The initiative reflects Ecobank Nigeria’s proactive approach to liability management and balance sheet optimisation. By launching the tender offer, the Bank is giving eligible Noteholders the opportunity to redeem their holdings ahead of the original maturity date of 16 February 2026. The offer supports the Bank’s broader funding strategy, enhances capital planning flexibility, and reinforces its commitment to maintaining a well-structured debt profile. Commenting on the announcement, the Bank stated that the offer demonstrates its commitment to transparent engagement with funding partners and investors. It also aligns with Ecobank Nigeria’s long-term objective of ensuring efficient… Ecobank Nigeria Launches Tender Offer for Its 2026 Senior Eurobond