Sunday, April 19, 2026

Nigeria Accelerates Deal for 12 AH-1Z Viper Helicopters

By
Fortune Temitope
-

The Nigerian Air Force has intensified efforts to strengthen its combat capability, accelerating the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters as part of a broader strategy to enhance national security and counter emerging threats.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a high-level Programme Management Review meeting in San Diego, California, with senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Bell Textron, the manufacturer of the helicopters. The engagement focused on expediting delivery timelines and ensuring the smooth execution of the acquisition programme.

A statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the helicopters would significantly boost the Air Force’s operational effectiveness and reinforce its ability to deliver “decisive airpower” in support of national security objectives.

Speaking during the meeting, Air Marshal Aneke described the acquisition as a critical step toward building a more professional and mission-ready force. “This programme represents more than just a platform upgrade. It is a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, built on mutual trust, professionalism and shared security interests,” he said.

The Air Chief expressed appreciation to the U.S. Government and Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, transparency and professionalism in the execution of the programme. He also stressed the urgency attached to the project, assuring partners that the Nigerian Air Force would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time.

Air Marshal Aneke further acknowledged the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in supporting the modernisation of the Air Force, particularly in the area of platform acquisition. He said the President’s backing has been crucial in sustaining momentum for capability development across the Service.

Reassuring Nigerians, the Air Chief reiterated the Air Force’s commitment to confronting terrorism and criminality across the country. “The Nigerian Air Force remains unwavering in its resolve to eliminate terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, restraint and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in our operations,” Aneke said.

The AH-1Z attack helicopters, widely regarded for their advanced targeting systems, precision strike capability and survivability, are expected to significantly enhance the Nigerian Air Force’s close air support and counter-insurgency operations once delivered and deployed.

Burkina Faso Thwarts Assassination Plot Against Junta Leader Traoré

By
Agency Report
-
Captain Ibrahim Traoré

Burkina Faso’s ruling military authorities say they have foiled what they described as a highly sophisticated coup plot aimed at assassinating the country’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and destabilising key state institutions.

The announcement was made by Security Minister Mahamadou Sana during a national television broadcast, where he disclosed that intelligence services intercepted the operation at its final stage, just hours before it was allegedly set to be executed. According to Sana, the plot was designed to assassinate Traoré and trigger a wider campaign of coordinated attacks across the country.

“Our intelligence services intercepted a major plot in its advanced phase, aimed at assassinating the Head of State and plunging the country into chaos,” Sana said. He alleged that the conspirators planned to kill Traoré either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 3.

The minister further claimed that investigators uncovered a leaked video in which the suspected plotters openly discussed their intentions. He said the conspirators planned to follow up the assassination attempt by attacking other senior military officers and civilian personalities, mobilising soldiers and civilian supporters, and striking strategic targets to paralyse the state.

Among the alleged targets, Sana said, was the country’s drone-launch base, which the plotters intended to disable in order to prevent any foreign intervention. He also claimed that the conspiracy was funded from a neighbouring country, though he did not name the state involved.

“The objective was clear: to eliminate the Head of State, neutralise strategic capacities, and open the way for coordinated attacks on institutions and personalities,” Sana stated during the broadcast.

He added that the security situation was now under control and that measures had been taken to neutralise the threat, while investigations continue to identify all those involved and their alleged sponsors. Authorities have not yet disclosed the number of suspects arrested or whether formal charges have been filed.

Sana urged the population to remain calm and vigilant, warning against attempts to exploit public trust. “We call on citizens not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes that threaten the stability of our country,” he said.

Captain Traoré, who came to power following a military takeover in 2022, has survived several alleged plots and assassination attempts, according to the junta, as Burkina Faso continues to grapple with political instability and a prolonged security crisis linked to insurgent violence.

The government has not announced any immediate changes to security arrangements but said further updates would be provided as investigations progress.

FG Rolls Out Nationwide Mass Animal Vaccination as Sokoto Takes the Lead

By
Laziz Olatunde
-
Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha

The Federal Government has flagged off a nationwide mass animal vaccination exercise in Sokoto State, marking a major push to curb transboundary animal diseases and strengthen Nigeria’s livestock health system.

The exercise, launched under the World Bank–supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), is aimed at boosting efficient, resilient and sustainable livestock production across the country. Although only 20 states are currently enrolled in the L-PRES programme, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development confirmed that the vaccination campaign will be implemented across all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Sokoto, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the decision to extend the exercise nationwide reflects the critical role animal health plays in food security, public health and economic growth. “Animal diseases do not respect state boundaries. To grow our livestock industry and protect livelihoods, we must adopt a coordinated national approach to animal health,” the minister said.

Maiha disclosed that a total of 18.2 million doses of vaccines have been earmarked for the exercise, targeting major livestock and poultry diseases including Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia, Peste des Petits Ruminants and Newcastle Disease. He described the campaign as a “game changer” that would significantly reduce losses suffered by farmers and improve productivity along the livestock value chain.

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, who joined the minister at the event, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting livestock farmers. “Sokoto is proud to host the flag-off of this important national programme. Livestock remains a backbone of our rural economy, and interventions like this will go a long way in improving incomes and food availability,” the governor said.

As part of activities in the state, the minister and the governor also inaugurated a state-of-the-art L-PRES Model Veterinary Hospital in Sokoto, the third in a planned series of 21 such facilities nationwide. The hospital is designed to serve as a hub for modern animal health service delivery, diagnostics and disease surveillance.

According to officials, the facility is equipped with ambulatory veterinary services to respond to animal health emergencies, especially in hard-to-reach and underserved communities. Maiha noted that the model hospitals are central to the government’s strategy of building a resilient animal health system capable of supporting both smallholder and commercial livestock producers.

The Federal Government said the mass vaccination exercise and the rollout of modern veterinary infrastructure underscore its determination to reposition the livestock sector as a key driver of economic diversification, food security and national development.

Dangote Refinery Rejects Shutdown Rumours, Says Fuel Output Steady Amid Maintenance

By
Kazeem Busari
-

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has moved to quash growing speculation that it has shut down operations, assuring Nigerians that petrol production and supply remain steady even as key maintenance work continues.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the refinery confirmed that routine maintenance on major units, including the Crude Distillation Unit, began in early December 2025 and is expected to conclude in late January 2026. Despite the work, the refinery said production has not halted.

“Contrary to unfounded rumours circulating in the market, Dangote Refinery is not shut down,” the statement read. “Production continues uninterrupted at an average of 40 to 50 million litres of petrol per day, and current stock levels are sufficient to meet over 20 days of national demand.”

The clarification comes as some industry watchers and traders raised doubts about reported fuel volumes, pointing to the refinery’s Residue Fluidised Catalytic Cracking (RFCC) unit — crucial for maximizing petrol output — being offline during the maintenance period.

One such sceptic, petroleum industry analyst K.D. Ivi-Oreh, questioned the refinery’s figures, noting that without the RFCC unit fully operational, claimed production levels might not align with technical capacity. “There’s a need for independent verification by regulators,” Ivi-Oreh said, adding that transparency would help quell market anxieties.

But Dangote’s management defended its performance, highlighting the refinery’s contribution to reducing dependence on imported fuel. “Since commencing operations, the refinery has successfully cut petrol imports by over 60 per cent and played a stabilizing role in the market,” the statement noted.

The refinery also addressed pricing concerns. While some retail outlets have seen petrol prices spike to as high as ₦800 per litre, Dangote said petrol sold directly from its gantry was going for ₦699 per litre — a significant discount and an indicator of localized supply strength.

Nigerian motorists and market participants have closely watched Dangote Refinery’s performance since it began commercial operations, as the facility is central to efforts to eliminate petrol importation and reduce prices at the pump. Rumours of a shutdown had sparked concern among commuters and traders alike, with fear that supply disruptions would push pump prices higher and strain household budgets.

Responding to the anxiety, the refinery urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information and official statements. “We remain committed to supporting national energy security,” the company said, urging consumers and industry observers to disregard misinformation.

Toyin Abraham’s Oversabi Aunty Smashes Records, Comedy Crosses ₦700m

By
Justice Oladapo
-

Toyin Abraham has delivered yet another blockbuster hit with her latest film Oversabi Aunty, which has crossed the ₦700 million mark at the Nigerian box office just 18 days after its release, solidifying its place as one of the most commercially successful Nollywood films of all time.

According to figures released by the film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, Oversabi Aunty has raked in ₦711.5 million in ticket sales across cinemas in West Africa, a remarkable achievement that puts it in fourth place on the all-time Nollywood grossing chart — ahead of titles like Battle on Buka Street and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.

The comedy, written, produced and directed by Abraham — who also stars in the film — has enjoyed strong momentum since its theatrical debut on December 19, 2025, following advanced screenings that helped build early buzz. Its opening weekend was particularly impressive, ranking as one of the year’s top launches and contributing significantly to its rapid ascent on the charts.

Commenting on the milestone, the official Instagram account for Oversabi Aunty shared a message of gratitude to audiences: “West Africa, you showed up and showed out in an Oversabi way. Thank you for the love. In just 18 days, Oversabi Aunty grossed ₦711.5M, making it the 4th highest Nollywood film of all time in West Africa. Thank you to everyone for the love and support so far. This win is for all of us.”

The film stars a stellar ensemble, including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, Queen Nwokoye and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, whose performances have helped the relatable comedy resonate widely with audiences. The story of a well-meaning but overly involved aunt whose attempts to help others lead to humorous chaos has struck a chord with moviegoers, reflecting themes of family, boundaries and everyday life with a comedic twist.

Actors and filmmakers have also flocked to social media to celebrate the achievement, with many applauding Abraham’s creativity and box office acumen. For Abraham, the success of Oversabi Aunty not only highlights her strength as a filmmaker but also reinforces the growing commercial power of Nollywood productions in regional cinemas.

The film’s performance is part of a broader surge in Nigerian cinema, with 2025 marking one of the industry’s most commercially vibrant years. Other local titles have likewise posted strong results, reflecting increasing audience appetite for locally produced stories.

Europe Unites to Defend Greenland From Trump

By
Agency Report
-

European leaders have issued a robust and unmistakable rebuke to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about seeking control of Greenland, affirming that the Arctic territory’s future belongs solely to its own people and the Kingdom of Denmark.

In a joint statement released on Tuesday, leaders from across the continent, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom, united with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to defend Greenland’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of renewed rhetoric from Washington that has unsettled NATO allies and Arctic partners.

“Greenland belongs to its people,” the statement declared. “It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland.” The leaders underscored that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders — principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter — must guide international relations, particularly in sensitive regions such as the Arctic.

The statement comes after President Trump renewed his controversial remarks about Greenland, suggesting the United States should pursue a more direct role in the territory for strategic and security reasons. Those comments followed a U.S. military operation in Venezuela that heightened geopolitical tensions and prompted European capitals to address broader concerns about U.S. intentions—particularly as Arctic security grows in importance amid rising interest from China and Russia.

Denmark’s Frederiksen has been among the most vocal critics of the U.S. position, telling the press that Greenland’s future is not for sale and must be determined by Greenlanders and Danes themselves. She has also warned that any perceived attempt by the U.S. to take control of Greenland could undermine the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and destabilise the transatlantic alliance that has anchored European security since World War II.

Other European leaders echoed those sentiments. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision over Greenland’s destiny lies with its people and Denmark, and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised that international borders cannot be changed by force. German and Italian officials called for unity among European partners in upholding international law and protecting sovereign rights.

The collective response reflects growing unease in Europe over statements by the U.S. administration that resurface long-standing sensitivities about territorial control and national sovereignty, issues that resonate deeply in NATO capitals and beyond. The leaders also reaffirmed that cooperation — not unilateral action — should define Arctic security, stressing that NATO allies must work together to deter potential threats and uphold shared values.

Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, remains strategically significant due to its location and natural resources. Though semi-self-governing, it falls within Denmark’s remit and benefits from NATO’s collective defence guarantees, a point emphasised by European leaders seeking to reassure allies and maintain stability amid the diplomatic flashpoint.

Woman Arrested Mid-Interview After Protest Against U.S. Action in Venezuela

By
Agency Report
-

A Michigan woman was dramatically arrested on live television over the weekend after criticising U.S. President Donald Trump’s military action in Venezuela, sparking a nationwide debate about free speech and civil liberties in the United States.

The incident unfolded in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where 22-year-old preschool teacher and peace activist Jessica Plichta was speaking to a local ABC affiliate, WZZM, about a protest condemning the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. In the footage that quickly went viral, Plichta can be heard sharply criticising the Trump administration’s intervention before two police officers approach and place her in handcuffs, abruptly ending the interview.

“It’s not just a foreign issue, it’s our tax dollars that are being used to commit these war crimes,” Plichta said on camera. “It is also the duty of us, the people, to stand against the Trump regime, the Trump administration, that are committing crimes both here in the U.S. and against people in Venezuela.”

According to local authorities, Plichta was arrested for “obstructing a roadway and failure to obey a lawful command from a police officer,” charges that stemmed from her participation in the protest. The Grand Rapids Police Department issued repeated warnings over a public address system for demonstrators to move to the sidewalk instead of marching in the street, which they said violated city and state law.

After several hours in custody, Plichta was released and told to expect a formal notice of charges. Speaking to the independent outlet Zeteo after her release, she suggested her arrest was politically motivated and tied to her criticism of U.S. policy. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence that as soon as I finished an interview speaking on Venezuela, I was arrested — the only person arrested out of 200 people,” she said.

The timing of the protest and interview came amid one of the most controversial foreign policy developments in recent U.S. history: the dramatic U.S. military operation that captured Maduro in Caracas, a mission that resulted in his transportation to the United States on federal charges including narco-terrorism and weapons offenses. The operation has drawn both praise and condemnation on the global stage.

The arrest has ignited heated debate online and in political circles, with critics arguing the episode highlights broader concerns about civil liberties and the policing of dissent in the United States. Social media users compared the arrest to authoritarian tactics, while others pointed out that permits and lawful orders — not the content of speech — were central to the police’s justification.

Although the protest was anti-war in focus, some observers have questioned whether the police response was proportional, given that Plichta had just finished an interview and appeared to be complying at the time of her arrest. In the video captured by local news crews, the patrol car and officers approached as she concluded her comments on U.S. foreign policy, leading to questions about timing and intent behind the enforcement action.

Plichta, who told WZZM she had recently attended an international summit in Venezuela advocating for peace and sovereignty, reiterated her commitment to activism and free expression after her release. “People loved him,” she said of Maduro, recounting her experience at the summit. “Maduro was elected by the people. He is for the people, and the people want to see his return.”

Tim Walz Abruptly Drops Out of Minnesota Governor’s Race Amid Explosive Fraud Scandal

By
Agency Report
-

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ended his bid for re-election in the 2026 gubernatorial race, stepping aside amid intense scrutiny over a sprawling fraud scandal that has engulfed state social services programs and drawn national political attention.

Walz, a two-term Democratic governor and former vice presidential nominee on the 2024 Democratic ticket, announced his decision on Monday, saying that he could not devote the time necessary to run a campaign while also confronting what he described as a serious crisis facing the state. The governor’s withdrawal comes less than four months after he had formally launched his bid for a third term.

In a brief statement delivered at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Walz acknowledged the challenges Minnesota has faced amid allegations of fraud within state welfare and childcare programs. “Every minute that I spend defending my own political interests would be a minute I can’t spend defending the people of Minnesota against the criminals who prey on our generosity and the cynics who want to prey on our differences,” Walz said. “So I’ve decided to step out of this race, and I’ll let others worry about the election while I focus on the work that’s in front of me for the next year.”

The scandal has centred on alleged widespread abuse of state and federal funds in programs including childcare, Medicaid and other social services, with prosecutors suggesting potential losses to fraud could be in the billions of dollars. A viral video by an online influencer highlighting suspicious day-care operations in Minnesota helped fuel national media coverage and prompt federal actions, including the freeze of federal funds tied to some of the implicated programs.

Walz said he remains committed to addressing fraud and protecting residents, but insisted he could not effectively balance campaign responsibilities with the demands of his office during what he termed an “extraordinarily difficult year” for the state. He also sharply criticised political opponents for what he described as attempts to capitalise on the controversy, saying their rhetoric sought to “poison our people against each other.”

The governor’s departure reshapes the political landscape in Minnesota, a traditionally competitive state. His exit has prompted speculation about potential successors, including U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who is considering entering the race, though she has not yet announced a formal campaign. Other state Democrats and Republicans are expected to step forward as the field realigns ahead of the November 2026 election.

Reactions to Walz’s announcement have cut across party lines. Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, praised Walz as “a national leader in fighting for the middle class” and expressed confidence that Minnesota will elect another strong Democrat in 2026. Meanwhile, Republican critics framed Walz’s decision as inevitable given what they describe as mismanagement and prioritised fraud issues under his administration.

President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticised Walz’s handling of the scandal and linked it to broader political attacks, seized on the announcement as a political victory, saying the decision “reflects the will of Minnesotans who want accountability.”

AFCON 2025: Akor Adams Leaves Super Eagles Camp as Mother Hospitalised

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Akor Adams

Nigerian forward Akor Adams has been granted official leave from the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 camp to be with his mother, who was hospitalised yesterday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed on Tuesday.

The announcement came amid preparations for Nigeria’s quarter-final showdown later in the tournament, with team officials saying the decision was made to support the player during a difficult time and allow him to attend to family matters.

“We have granted Akor Adams permission to leave camp to go be with his mum, who was hospitalised yesterday,” an NFF spokesperson said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, and we wish his mother a quick recovery.”

Adams’ departure comes at a crucial juncture for the Super Eagles, who have been in impressive form at AFCON 2025 after a dominant victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16. The striker’s contributions on and off the pitch have been praised by teammates and supporters alike, further amplifying the warm response to the news of his temporary exit.

Head coach Éric Chelle expressed empathy for the player’s situation, emphasising the team’s support for Adams as he tends to his family.

The NFF reiterated its commitment to the welfare of its players, noting that support extends beyond the pitch. “We stand by our players in moments of need, and we trust that Akor will return to the squad when his family situation allows,” an NFF official in Morocco added.

Fans and well-wishers took to social media to share messages of support, flooding official team channels with prayers and messages of encouragement for Adams and his mother.

Super Eagles Crush Mozambique, Set Sights on Algeria, DR Congo in Quarter-Finals

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Nigeria's Super Eagles celebrate after scoring the first goal against Tanzania on Tuesday. Credit: cafonline

Nigeria’s Super Eagles stamped their authority on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic 4-0 demolition of Mozambique on Monday, securing a place in the quarter-finals and setting up a tantalising showdown with either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo).

In a performance that blended tactical discipline with ruthless attacking efficiency, the Super Eagles dominated from start to finish. Ademola Lookman opened the scoring in the first half, firing a right-footed shot into the top corner following a slick build-up involving forward movement and incisive passing that kept Mozambique on the back foot. Victor Osimhen continued his fine form by doubling Nigeria’s lead shortly before halftime, tapping in from close range after sustained pressure from the African giants.

The second half saw Nigeria maintain their intensity as they looked to put the tie beyond doubt. Osimhen added a third with a composed finish, again showcasing the lethal edge that has made him one of the tournament’s most feared forwards. Akor Adams wrapped up the scoring with a precise right-footed strike from the right side of the box, cementing Nigeria’s superiority on the night and sparking jubilant celebrations among travelling supporters.

Lookman’s creative influence was a highlight of the match; his ability to unlock defences and combine with teammates such as Osimhen and Adams was key to Nigeria’s attacking fluency. His performance, marked by two assists, drew widespread praise from fans and pundits alike, further illustrating the depth of Nigeria’s squad.

The victory ensures that Nigeria progresses to the AFCON quarter-finals, where they will face the winners between Algeria and DR Congo. A date with DR Congo would re-enact their recent tie in Morocco last November where the Leopards denied the Super Eagles a chance to appear at the 2026 World Cup.

Earlier in the day, seven-time champions Egypt booked their place in the quarter-finals with a hard-fought 3-1 extra-time win over Benin in Agadir. The Pharaohs were pushed all the way in a gripping encounter that remained level at 1–1 after regulation time before Egypt’s experience ultimately told in additional minutes. Mohamed Salah capped the victory with a composed finish in the dying moments, a strike that will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the tie.

The Pharaohs will also wait for the outcome of the Round of 16 tie between Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso to know their quarter-final opponents.

1...181920...47Page 19 of 47

EDITOR PICKS

Recent Posts

© 2026 Metro-Standard