Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Kidnappers Kill Retired Major General in Captivity, Military Vows Relentless Offensive

By
Kazeem Busari
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Rtd. Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife, in captivity.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by his abductors, describing the development as a tragic loss to the nation and the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

In a statement issued on Friday, the military expressed profound sorrow over the death of the retired senior officer, who served in several strategic positions during his distinguished career, including as Director of Defence Information and spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Announcing the development, the Defence Headquarters said it had deliberately refrained from making public comments on the retired general’s abduction while efforts were ongoing to secure his freedom.

“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” the statement said.

The military noted that extensive efforts had been made to rescue the retired officer, revealing that security agencies deployed significant operational resources in an attempt to ensure his safe return.

“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” it stated.

Paying tribute to the late general, the Armed Forces described him as a dedicated officer whose contributions to national security, military professionalism and counter-insurgency operations left a lasting impact on the country.

“Maj Gen Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as Director Defence Information. He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts,” the statement added.

According to the military, the late officer’s commitment to national unity and service remained a model for serving personnel.

“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN,” the Defence Headquarters said.

The military extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues and Nigerians mourning the loss, while assuring citizens that his death would further strengthen ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist and criminal networks across the country.

“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens,” the statement read.

The Defence Headquarters disclosed that military operations across various theatres have already been intensified in response to a growing wave of abductions and terrorist activities, including the kidnapping of the retired general.

“In response to series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria including that of Maj Gen Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation,” it said.

Reaffirming its commitment to restoring security nationwide, the military pledged not to relent until those responsible for terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes are brought to justice.

“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account,” the Defence Headquarters stated.

Yaya Touré Appointed Slovan Bratislava Head Coach on Three-Year Deal

By
Kazeem Busari
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The unveiling of Yaya Toure at the club on Saturday.

Former Manchester City and Barcelona star Yaya Touré has been appointed as the new head coach of Slovak champions Slovan Bratislava, with the club confirming that the Ivorian football legend has signed a three-year contract.

The appointment marks a major milestone in Touré’s coaching career as he takes charge of Slovakia’s most successful club and 32-time league champions ahead of the new season.

Slovan Bratislava announced the deal after concluding negotiations with the 43-year-old former midfielder, who succeeds long-serving coach Vladimír Weiss and will officially begin work with the team on Monday as the club embarks on what officials have described as a new era.

Club Chief Executive Officer Ivan Kmotrík Jr. said Touré emerged as the standout candidate from the beginning of the selection process, praising his ambition, football pedigree and vision for the future of the club.

“First of all, I am very happy that Yaya Touré is our new head coach. I am delighted that we agreed on a three-year contract and that we will begin building a new era of Slovan Bratislava together from Monday,” Kmotrík said.

The Slovan executive acknowledged the challenge of replacing Weiss but insisted the club was determined to bring in a coach with elite-level experience and a strong desire to succeed in management.

“My goal was to bring in a person and personality who has experienced football at the highest world level and at the same time has enormous motivation to succeed as a coach,” he said.

Kmotrík revealed that several meetings were held with Touré before the appointment was finalized, adding that the former Ivory Coast captain made an immediate impression during their first video conversation.

“From Yaya, you can feel a great desire and motivation to succeed as a coach with Slovan Bratislava. We have common high goals, we are both young and ambitious, and we will do everything possible to make the club successful,” he added.

Further details regarding Touré’s coaching staff and technical team are expected to be unveiled during an official presentation and press conference scheduled for Monday.

Speaking after his appointment, Touré expressed excitement about taking charge of the Slovak giants and beginning his first major project as a head coach.

“I am very happy and excited. I honestly cannot wait until we start working together on Monday,” Touré said.

The former midfielder paid tribute to his predecessor while outlining his ambitions for the club.

“My predecessor deserves great respect for what he achieved with Slovan. I want to build on that and at the same time bring something new and my own ideas.”

Touré said he intends to implement an attacking and dominant style of football capable of delivering victories and entertaining supporters.

“Football is everything to me. I love challenges and I am extremely excited to coach a big club with a rich history, a beautiful stadium and high ambitions. With Slovan, I want to play dominant football, win matches and control games so that we can make our fans happy,” he stated.

The former Manchester City icon also disclosed that he had already begun studying the squad ahead of pre-season preparations.

“I have tried to study the team in as much detail as possible, but the most important thing will be to see how the players react directly in training,” he said.

Touré noted that while he gained valuable experience working as an assistant coach under renowned managers, including Roberto Mancini with the Saudi Arabia national team, he had long been eager to lead his own project.

“As an assistant, I had the opportunity to work with Roberto Mancini, but for a long time I wanted the opportunity to work on my own project as a head coach. I appreciate that this opportunity comes at a top club,” he said.

One of Africa’s greatest footballers, Touré enjoyed a glittering playing career that took him from Belgium’s Beveren to Metalurh Donetsk, Olympiacos and AS Monaco before joining Barcelona. At the Catalan club, he won two La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League before making a high-profile move to Manchester City in 2010.

Touré became one of the defining figures of City’s rise to domestic dominance, helping the club win three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and several other major trophies during an eight-year spell. He scored 82 goals for City despite primarily operating as a midfielder and remains one of the most influential players in the club’s modern history.

Internationally, he represented Ivory Coast at three FIFA World Cups and captained the Elephants to victory at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Since retiring from professional football, Touré has steadily built his coaching résumé. He worked with Olimpik Donetsk, Akhmat Grozny, Tottenham Hotspur’s academy and Belgian side Standard Liège before joining Roberto Mancini’s backroom staff with Saudi Arabia’s national team from 2023 until October 2024.

Now, with his first major managerial role secured, Touré faces the challenge of maintaining Slovan Bratislava’s domestic dominance while guiding the club to further success in European competitions.

Nigeria, Ethiopia Sign Prisoner Transfer Deal as Ojukwu Announces Repatriation of Nigerian Inmates

By
Kazeem Busari
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Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu (left) with Ethiopian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos during the signing of the agreement on Thursday.

Nigeria and Ethiopia have signed a landmark Prisoner Transfer Agreement that will allow convicted citizens of both countries to return home to serve the remainder of their prison sentences, marking a significant milestone in diplomatic relations, consular cooperation and humanitarian justice between the two African nations.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced the breakthrough after the agreement was formally signed at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Addis Ababa. The development comes days after her visit to the AbaSamuel Prison, where she informed Nigerian inmates that arrangements had been concluded for their eventual transfer back home.

A cross-section of the Nigerian prisoners in Ethiopia.

Describing the agreement as a major diplomatic achievement, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said it would allow sentenced citizens of either Nigeria or Ethiopia to complete their prison terms in their home countries, where they can benefit from family support, familiar cultural environments and better prospects for rehabilitation.

“Done and Dusted! Here at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we signed a landmark agreement that will allow sentenced citizens of either country… Nigeria or Ethiopia, to return to their home nation to serve the remainder of their prison terms,” she stated.

The minister disclosed that Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and Ethiopia’s Minister of Justice, Hanna Arayaselassie, formally appended their signatures to the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Agreement in the presence of senior government officials from both countries.

According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the agreement represents “a major milestone, marking a major step in consular cooperation and humanitarian justice between our two nations.”

The announcement follows her recent visit to AbaSamuel Prison in Addis Ababa, where dozens of Nigerians are serving various prison terms. During the visit, she revealed that four Nigerian inmates had died while in custody, while several others were critically ill and in urgent need of improved medical care.

“…the exhilarating moment when I visited the AbaSamuel Prisons, Addis Ababa to break the news to our boys that they will soon be returning home for service of the remainder of their prison terms as a result of the Prisoner Transfer Agreement Nigeria has just signed with the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Renewed Joy; Renewed Hope,” she said.

She added: “We have already lost four of the inmates, and several others are critically ill and need better care and medical assistance.”

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the agreement aligns with the Citizen Diplomacy pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad.

“This Prisoner Transfer Agreement with the Government of Ethiopia is a landmark. Under the Citizen Diplomacy imperative of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remains committed to the welfare and protection of Nigerian citizens abroad,” she said.

The Ethiopian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, also welcomed the agreement, noting that Nigeria and Ethiopia have enjoyed strong bilateral relations dating back to the 1960s. He emphasized the need for continued consultation and cooperation on issues of mutual interest to further strengthen ties between both countries.

According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Timothewos “noted that Ethiopia and Nigeria enjoy longstanding bilateral ties dating back to the 1960s and underscored the importance of continued coordination and consultation on issues of mutual interest to further strengthen the longstanding relations between our two countries.”

She further explained that the accord reflects the shared commitment of both governments to justice and a more humane correctional system.

“This accord is a reflection of the shared commitment of our two nations to justice, and to a more humane approach to custodial administration,” she stated.

The minister said the arrangement recognizes the critical role played by family support, language, culture and social connections in the rehabilitation process and would enhance opportunities for inmates to reform and eventually reintegrate into society after serving their sentences.

 

 

Balogun Delivers Dream Debut, Leads USA to 4-1 World Cup Victory Over Paraguay

By
Agency Report
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Folarin Balogun celebrates his goal against Paraguay. Photo: AP

Folarin Balogun announced himself on football’s biggest stage in spectacular fashion on Friday night, scoring twice as the United States opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay before a sold-out crowd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

The 24-year-old striker, who was born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents before moving to England as an infant, delivered a dream World Cup debut on home soil, helping the co-hosts make a statement in front of 70,492 fans and a host of celebrities, including former England captain David Beckham.

Balogun’s brace etched his name into American football history, making him the first United States player to score multiple goals in a World Cup match since Bert Patenaude netted a hat-trick against Paraguay at the inaugural tournament in 1930.

Reflecting on the memorable night, Balogun admitted the occasion exceeded even his own expectations.

“I visualized my debut in the World Cup scoring, but the reality did surpass that,” he said. “A very dreamy night.”

The victory marked another significant chapter in Balogun’s remarkable international journey. Eligible to represent the United States, England and Nigeria, the Arsenal academy graduate ultimately committed his international future to the United States three years ago, a decision that is already paying dividends on the biggest stage.

The striker, who represented England at youth level and also featured for the United States Under-18 side before switching allegiance, said he remains motivated by the support he has received from American fans.

“I’ve always said the fans gave me so much motivation and showed me so much support. The most important thing has always been to be able to repay that,” Balogun said. “I just want to continue to show the fans I made the right decision.”

The Americans opened the scoring through an own goal by Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla before Balogun took centre stage. Christian Pulisic supplied the assist for the striker’s first goal, a contribution that marked Pulisic’s 21st career assist for the national team and moved him into a tie for fourth place on the all-time U.S. list.

Balogun almost added another moments earlier, only for an offside flag to deny him. He remained undeterred and doubled his tally before halftime, firing into the upper-left corner to give the United States a commanding 3-0 lead heading into the break.

The performance earned glowing praise from captain Pulisic, who highlighted Balogun’s all-round contribution beyond his goals.

“The kid’s insane,” Pulisic said. “He’s lethal right now. We’re really lucky to have him.”

Pulisic added: “Everyone will look at the goals, but the way he’s fighting against these center backs, holding up the ball, getting fouls, I really like it.”

For Balogun, the occasion carried extra significance as family members travelled from across the United States and England to witness his World Cup debut.

“I was able to spot them out in the crowd, but it was tough because so many fans were wearing red and white,” he said. “I had to sort a lot of tickets, but I’m happy to do it because this is a once in a lifetime occasion and I want everyone to experience it.”

The striker admitted he was still struggling to process the magnitude of the moment after the final whistle.

“I’ve not been able to take it all in,” he said.

Asked how he planned to celebrate one of the biggest nights of his career, Balogun offered a surprisingly simple answer.

“To be honest, I think I’ll just watch some Netflix,” he said with a smile.

With Nigeria absent from the tournament and England’s squad packed with established stars, Balogun’s decision to represent the United States is increasingly looking inspired. If his World Cup debut is any indication, the Brooklyn-born forward could become one of the defining stars of the tournament as the Americans pursue a deep run on home soil.

 

AP

Empty Seats Cast Shadow Over FIFA World Cup 2026 as Ticket Price Backlash Intensifies

By
Kazeem Busari
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Noticeable empty seats during the Canada vs Bosnia game on Friday. Photo: AP

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has been hit by growing criticism over ticket pricing after several early tournament matches were played in front of noticeable sections of empty seats, raising fresh questions about affordability, fan access and the governing body’s commercial strategy.

Concerns intensified following Thursday’s Group Stage match between South Korea and the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, Mexico, where FIFA reported an official attendance of 44,985 at a stadium with a capacity of approximately 46,000. Despite the near-capacity figure, television images showing large patches of empty seats sparked widespread debate among supporters and observers.

The issue resurfaced during Canada’s opening World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto’s BMO Field. Although the stadium has a capacity of 44,315, hundreds of seats remained unoccupied, with tickets still available only hours before kick-off at prices many supporters described as excessive.

According to ticket listings, Category 1 and Category 2 seats for Canada’s opening fixture were priced between $1,645 and $2,240, prompting criticism from fans and consumer groups who argue that attending World Cup matches has become financially out of reach for ordinary supporters.

The controversy comes despite FIFA’s insistence that demand for the tournament remains exceptionally strong. FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently defended the governing body’s pricing policy, arguing that ticket costs were comparable to those of other major international sporting events.

FIFA has previously announced that more than six million tickets had been sold for the expanded 48-team tournament and maintained that demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more.”

However, supporters’ organisations have challenged that narrative. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) warned before the tournament that what it described as “extortionate” ticket prices risked excluding traditional football fans from the sport’s biggest event. The group noted that ticket prices for the 2026 tournament had increased significantly compared to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The issue has also attracted political attention. Former United States President Donald Trump recently criticised the pricing structure, saying he “wouldn’t pay” the four-figure sums being charged for tickets to the United States’ opening match against Paraguay.

FIFA has sought to explain the discrepancy between attendance figures and the visible empty seats seen during broadcasts. Following scrutiny over the Guadalajara match, the organisation stated that some spectators may have been standing in concourse areas rather than occupying their assigned seats during portions of the game.

Nevertheless, the optics have continued to fuel criticism. Television footage from both Guadalajara and Toronto repeatedly showed empty sections of seating, particularly in areas opposite the main broadcast cameras.

The attendance concerns come as FIFA faces increasing scrutiny over its ticketing practices. Reports indicate that only 29 of the tournament’s 104 matches had sold out before the competition began, while tickets remained available for 75 fixtures in the days leading up to the opening game.

Adding to the pressure, ticketing practices surrounding the World Cup are now reportedly being examined by legal authorities in the United States. Attorneys General in New York and New Jersey have demanded answers from FIFA over allegations that ticket prices were being artificially inflated and that some supporters may have been misled during the sales process.

Among the concerns raised are claims that FIFA introduced more expensive premium seating categories after initial ticket sales had begun and utilised dynamic pricing models that allowed prices to rise significantly in response to demand. Reports also suggest that seats may have been withheld from initial sales before being released later at higher prices, a strategy critics argue contributed to scarcity and increased costs for fans.

Despite the controversy, FIFA continues to promote the tournament as a major success, citing record ticket sales and strong global interest in the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

 

Army Arrests Five Kidnap Suspects, Recovers AK-47 Rifles as Two Top ISWAP Commanders Surrender

By
Justice Oladapo
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The suspects and the weapons recovered by security personnels. Photo: Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army has recorded fresh gains in its counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations in the North-East, with troops of Operation Hadin Kai arresting five suspected kidnappers and recovering AK-47 rifles in Borno State, while two high-ranking Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders have also surrendered to military authorities.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Nigerian Army said troops operating under the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, carried out a successful intelligence-led operation in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State, leading to the arrest of five suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate.

According to the Army, the operation was launched following credible intelligence on the activities of criminal elements operating along a known corridor in Magumeri. During the raid, troops recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, significantly degrading the operational capability of the suspected kidnappers.

The Army stated that preliminary investigations linked the suspects to kidnapping and other criminal activities across parts of Borno State. The arrested individuals are currently in custody and assisting security agencies with ongoing investigations aimed at tracking down additional members of the syndicate and dismantling their support networks.

The military described the operation as evidence of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining offensive operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups threatening national security.

The latest arrests come days after Operation Hadin Kai recorded another major breakthrough in its counter-insurgency campaign with the surrender of two senior ISWAP commanders.

The Nigerian Army disclosed that the terrorists, identified as Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar, surrendered to troops on June 8, 2026, and are currently undergoing profiling and debriefing procedures in military custody.

Military authorities revealed that both men occupied strategic positions within the ISWAP hierarchy and operated within the Mangari axis of the Lake Chad region. Ismail Mohammed was identified as a close associate of senior ISWAP leader Baa Shuwa and was said to possess extensive knowledge of the group’s command structure and operations.

The second surrendered commander, Abu Umar, was described as a key explosives expert within the terrorist network. According to the military, he was responsible for the fabrication and maintenance of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) and other combat-support equipment used by insurgents.

The Army further disclosed that ongoing interrogations revealed that another senior terrorist figure, Mohammed Khalifa, a member of the ISWAP Shurah Council, was neutralised during recent joint military operations conducted by Operation Hadin Kai and allied forces.

Military authorities said the surrender of the two commanders represents a significant blow to the terrorist organisation because of their influence, experience and technical expertise acquired over several years within the insurgent network.

The Army noted that the development underscores the effectiveness of sustained military offensives and precision operations conducted across terrorist enclaves in the North-East. According to the military, the sustained pressure has continued to weaken terrorist capabilities, disrupt their networks and force increasing numbers of insurgents to abandon the fight.

“The surrender of the two commanders represents a major setback to the terrorist organisation, particularly given their experience, influence and technical expertise acquired over several years within the insurgent network,” the Army stated.

The military added that the growing number of surrenders reflects declining morale among insurgents and demonstrates the success of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist leadership structures and eliminate safe havens used by extremists.

Reaffirming its resolve, the Nigerian Army said Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to maintaining relentless pressure on all terrorist elements and exploiting every opportunity to dismantle criminal and insurgent networks in order to restore lasting peace and stability across affected communities in the North-East.

‘Every Valid Vote Will Count’: INEC Assures Ekiti Stakeholders Ahead of Governorship Election

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Prof.-Joash-Amupitan
New INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured political parties, voters and other stakeholders in Ekiti State that it is fully prepared to conduct a credible, transparent and inclusive governorship election on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), gave the assurance on Thursday during the Stakeholders’ Forum on the Ekiti State Governorship Election in Ado-Ekiti, saying the Commission had completed the major preparatory arrangements required for the poll.

“Every valid vote will count,” Amupitan said as he addressed representatives of political parties, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders.

According to him, 1,059,360 registered voters are expected to participate across Ekiti’s 16 Local Government Areas, 117 Registration Areas (wards) and 2,445 polling units. The figure includes 66,664 new registrants captured during the Continuous Voter Registration exercise, while 2,103 invalid registrations were removed through the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).

Amupitan said logistics arrangements were at an advanced stage, with plans to ensure that all polling units are activated simultaneously by 8:30 a.m. on election day. Election materials, he said, were ready, ad hoc personnel had been trained, and deployment plans were being implemented in line with the Commission’s timetable.

The INEC chairman reiterated that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) would be used for voter accreditation and that polling unit results would be uploaded to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to strengthen transparency and public confidence in the process.

He also highlighted measures aimed at making the election more inclusive, including the deployment of Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses for voters with visual impairments and persons with albinism.

On security, Amupitan said INEC was working closely with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) and other relevant agencies to maintain a peaceful environment before, during and after the poll. He added that the Commission was collaborating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to combat vote-buying and other electoral offences.

The chairman disclosed that INEC had accredited 91 media organisations with 675 journalists for election coverage, as well as 98 observer groups comprising 96 domestic and two international organisations.

He further noted that, in addition to the Ekiti governorship election, the Commission would conduct six legislative bye-elections in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, Ondo, Kano and Kebbi states on the same day.

The election is being closely watched as a key test of INEC’s deployment of BVAS, IReV and other reforms designed to improve transparency, voter confidence and the integrity of the electoral process.

Tinubu Honours June 12 Heroes, Announces National Awards for Democracy Activists

By
Kazeem Busari
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced national honours for dozens of pro-democracy activists, journalists, lawyers, civil society leaders and military officers who played key roles in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, saying their sacrifices helped secure the freedoms enjoyed by Nigerians today.

Speaking during his Democracy Day address on Friday, the President paid tribute to individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, harassment and, in some cases, death during the struggle to restore democratic governance following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

“Today, we honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their faith in freedom, and the courage of those who stood firm against intimidation,” Tinubu said.

The President said the honourees represented various sectors of society, including labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders and members of the armed forces who stood on the side of democracy during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political eras.

“We pay tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death so that future generations could enjoy democracy,” he stated. “I salute labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders, and soldiers—both those who have passed and those still with us—for their patriotic contributions.”

Among those named for national recognition are veteran journalists and democracy advocates Tunde Fagbenle, Bola Bolawole, Sam Omatseye, Louis Odion, Gbemiga Ogunleye, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju and Muyiwa Adekeye. Others include pro-democracy campaigners Debo Adeniran, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Joe Okei-Odumakin, Richard Akinnola, Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine and Dr. Osagie Obayuwana.

The President also honoured several individuals posthumously, including Dr. Arthur Nwankwo and Ben Charles-Obi, for their contributions to the democratic struggle.

In a significant recognition of the military officers who opposed military authoritarianism and supported democratic restoration, Tinubu announced honours for several soldier-democrats, including Major General M.A. Garba, Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Colonel Sambo Dasuki, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe, Major General Chris Eze, Major General Harris Dzarma, Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong and others.

The President noted that their actions helped sustain the pro-democracy movement during a difficult chapter in Nigeria’s history.

“We also recognise the soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle,” Tinubu said while unveiling the list of military honourees.

Tinubu further announced a major institutional recognition for the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, describing him as one of the architects of modern democratic Nigeria.

“Among the architects of modern democratic Nigeria, we honour General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his vision of national partnership,” the President said.

As part of that recognition, Tinubu revealed that the Federal Government had approved the revitalisation and renaming of the completed Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

The President said the awards were intended not only to recognise individual sacrifices but also to remind younger generations of the struggles that made Nigeria’s democratic journey possible.

“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory,” he said. “It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story.”

Tinubu stressed that the greatest tribute to the heroes of June 12 would be to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold justice, expand opportunities and ensure government accountability.

“As beneficiaries of their struggle, we have a duty to strengthen and deepen the democratic institutions for which they fought,” he said. “The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded, and government is accountable.”

The President disclosed that the full honours list and award categories would be officially released in the coming days.

Surrender or Face Full Force of the Nigerian State, Tinubu Warns Terrorists

By
Kazeem Busari
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity across Nigeria, declaring that bandits, kidnappers and terror sponsors must either surrender or face the full weight of state authority.

In his Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, the President acknowledged that the country’s security challenges remain a major concern, particularly following the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states. He said the incidents had cast a shadow over this year’s celebration but assured Nigerians that efforts were being intensified to secure the country and rescue victims.

“Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return,” Tinubu said. “Democracy without security is not solid enough.”

The President disclosed that his administration had declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 new police officers alongside thousands of military personnel to strengthen national security architecture. He further revealed that the 2026 national budget allocated a record ₦5.41 trillion to defence and security.

According to Tinubu, Nigeria’s security forces have recorded significant successes in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. He noted that military operations have evolved from conventional training exercises with international allies to precision-targeted operations against terror groups.

“We have moved from training with our allies, the United States, France and other European countries, to precision targeting,” he said. “In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP’s command centre.”

The President stated that terror-related deaths in Nigeria have declined significantly over the past decade, citing government figures showing an 81 per cent reduction since 2015. He added that more than 13,000 terrorists had been neutralised within the last year alone.

Despite the military gains, Tinubu said his administration would continue to provide opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration through Operation Safe Corridor. According to him, over 124,000 former fighters and their dependents have surrendered their weapons since 2023.

However, the President delivered a stern warning to criminal groups still operating across the country.

“To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” Tinubu declared. “These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.”

Calling for national unity, Tinubu urged Nigerians not to politicise insecurity or associate criminality with ethnic or regional identities.

“At a time like this, let us not assign blame or point fingers. Crime has no ethnicity,” he said. “We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history.”

The President linked some of the country’s security challenges to weak local governance structures, arguing that efforts to grant financial autonomy to local governments are part of a broader strategy to improve grassroots administration and strengthen security nationwide.

He stressed that securing the country remains central to the Renewed Hope Agenda and pledged that the Federal Government would continue investing heavily in security, intelligence gathering and law enforcement to protect lives and property.

Tinubu also paid tribute to members of the armed forces, police and intelligence agencies, thanking them for their sacrifices and service to the nation.

“Nigeria salutes your sacrifice,” he said.

The President expressed confidence that Nigeria would ultimately overcome its security challenges and continue on the path of democratic and economic development.

“We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he said.

Mexico Overpowers South Africa 2-0 in Dramatic World Cup Opener as Red Cards Fly

By
Agency Report
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South Africa's Iqraam Rayners with Mexico's Alvaro Fidalgo in their match on Thursday. Photo: AP

Mexico launched the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in the Group A opener at Estadio Azteca on Thursday, delivering a high-octane performance laced with early promise, clinical finishing, and late chaos.

Julián Quiñones struck first in the 9th minute, latching onto an Erik Lira pass to notch the tournament’s opening goal and set a vibrant tone for the co-hosts in front of a raucous home crowd. Raúl Jiménez, the veteran striker returning from a severe 2020 skull fracture that required surgery, added a second goal in the 67th minute with a superb header — his first-ever World Cup strike — effectively sealing the result.

The match turned increasingly fractious as South Africa, already trailing, saw two players sent off. Sphephelo Sithole received a red card in the 49th minute for a reckless challenge, reducing Bafana Bafana to 10 men. Themba Zwane followed with another dismissal later for slapping Mexico’s Roberto Alvarado, leaving the visitors with just nine players on the pitch. Mexico’s César Montes was shown a late red card in stoppage time for a professional foul, but it had little impact on the outcome.

The high-altitude conditions at Azteca, sitting more than a mile above sea level, appeared to favor the Mexicans, who controlled large stretches of play. South Africa showed flashes of counterattacking intent early but struggled to cope once reduced in numbers, with coach Hugo Broos shifting to a more defensive posture.

Off the pitch, the day featured a glittering opening ceremony with performances by Andrea Bocelli, J Balvin, and Shakira, though protests near the stadium led to minor vandalism and clashes with police. Fans across Mexico City celebrated wildly, with watch parties and street festivities underscoring the national excitement for El Tri’s campaign.

Mexico’s young talents also shone. Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora made his senior World Cup debut to loud cheers just before Jiménez’s goal, injecting fresh energy into the side. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, appearing in a record sixth World Cup, anchored the defense as Mexico kept a clean sheet.

The win gives Mexico an ideal start in Group A, which also includes South Korea and Czechia. South Africa, appearing in their fourth World Cup, faces an uphill battle to advance after this deflating result.

AP

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