Presidency Denies Plan to Rename Nigeria, Scrap Sharia Law

President Bola Tinubu

The Presidency has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating online claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is planning sweeping constitutional amendments that would allegedly rename the country the “United States of Nigeria” and abolish Sharia Law in the northern region.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Presidency described the viral claims as fabricated and part of a coordinated attempt to incite political tension and destabilise the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the statement, the report falsely alleged that President Tinubu intended to transmit a constitutional amendment bill code-named “Project True Federation” to the National Assembly of Nigeria before the next general election.

The Presidency said no such plan exists.

“The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth to the viral fake story claiming that President Bola Tinubu seeks to carry out constitutional amendments that will change Nigeria’s name to the United States of Nigeria and abolish Sharia Law in the Northern region, among other claims,” the statement read.

Officials further accused unnamed political actors of attempting to weaponise misinformation to create unrest and deepen divisions within the country’s political environment.

“The story, which cited anonymous sources, is part of the dubious plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in our country, stir up a political crisis, and heat the polity ahead of the general elections,” the statement added.

The Presidency urged Nigerians to disregard the report completely, warning that the spread of false and divisive information could intensify as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 polls.

“Nigerians should ignore the viral story in its entirety because the purveyors of the fake news are agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder,” it stated.

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The statement also stressed that constitutional amendments in Nigeria cannot be carried out arbitrarily by the President or the legislature without due legal process and broad national consensus.

“Under our laws, constitutional changes and amendments are serious business that require legislative scrutiny, oversight and serious debate,” the Presidency said.

“It is a task that requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly and the concurrence of 24 State Houses of Assembly.”

The Presidency maintained that President Tinubu remains focused on implementing economic reforms and delivering governance priorities rather than pursuing controversial constitutional changes.

“President Tinubu is focused on the arduous task of entrenching and deepening the economic reforms his administration has embarked upon. He is focused on delivering more tangible dividends to Nigerians,” the statement said.

The clarification comes amid heightened political activity and increasing online speculation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections, with government officials warning that misinformation campaigns are likely to intensify during the pre-election period.

The Presidency consequently appealed to Nigerians to verify sensitive political information before sharing it and to remain cautious of reports capable of inflaming ethnic, religious or regional tensions.

Tinubu Appoints 39-Year-Old Professor Segun Aina as New JAMB Registrar

New JAMB Registrar, Prof. Segun Aina

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, succeeding Professor Is-haq Oloyede whose second and final tenure is scheduled to expire on July 31, 2026.

The presidency announced that Aina, a Professor of Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, will officially take over leadership of the examination body following the completion of Oloyede’s tenure.

At 39 years old, and set to turn 40 in July, Aina becomes the youngest registrar in JAMB’s history, marking a generational shift in the leadership of one of Nigeria’s most critical educational institutions.

According to the statement announcing the appointment, President Tinubu expects the new registrar to leverage his expertise in digital infrastructure, institutional reform and examination systems management to consolidate on the achievements recorded under Oloyede’s administration.

The presidency described Aina as a distinguished academic and systems expert with extensive experience spanning technology, policy implementation and public-sector transformation.

Aina holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, alongside a Master’s degree in Internet Computing and Network Security and a PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University.

He also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School.

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The statement noted that Aina first developed his connection with JAMB during his National Youth Service year, where he gained firsthand experience in the board’s admissions and examination processes.

That exposure, officials said, helped shape his long-standing interest in examination reforms, digital optimisation and institutional efficiency.

Over the past 15 years, Aina has reportedly worked closely with several federal and state institutions on system design, ICT-driven reforms and operational restructuring.

He has also consulted for major examination bodies including the National Examinations Council and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board, particularly in areas related to examination integrity, digital systems and process optimisation.

The new JAMB registrar is also affiliated with several professional engineering and technology organisations, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

President Tinubu said the appointment reflects his administration’s commitment to strengthening educational institutions through innovation, digital transformation and merit-driven leadership.

The outgoing registrar, Professor Oloyede, is widely credited with implementing major reforms at JAMB, including improvements in transparency, computer-based testing systems and revenue generation during his tenure.

Aina is now expected to oversee the next phase of the board’s evolution amid increasing demands for secure, technology-driven and efficient examination processes across Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

‘We Are Champions, Daddy’: Emotional Arteta Reveals Family Moment After Arsenal End 22-Year Title Wait

Mikel Arteta

Arsenal F.C. manager Mikel Arteta has described the club’s historic Premier League triumph as one of the greatest moments of his life after the Gunners secured their first league title in 22 years.

Arsenal were officially crowned champions after Manchester City F.C. dropped points in a dramatic draw against Bournemouth, leaving Arteta’s side with an unassailable lead at the top of the table and sparking emotional celebrations across north London.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s final game of the season against Crystal Palace F.C., Arteta revealed he was unable to watch City’s decisive match unfold despite plans to join his players and coaching staff at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.

“It’s one of the best feelings I’ve ever had,” Arteta said.

FBL-ENG-PR-ARSENAL-CHELSEA

“I was supposed to be here, at Sobha, watching the game with the boys and the staff, because that’s what they wanted, but I couldn’t. I think 20 minutes later, before the game, I had to leave.”

The Spaniard explained that he instead returned home, distancing himself from the tension of the title race while spending time with his family.

“I went home, I went outside to the garden, I started to build a fire, and I started to do some barbecue. I didn’t watch any of it,” he said.

“I was just hearing some noises in the background, in the living room and suddenly the magic happened.”

Arteta then recounted the emotional moment his family informed him Arsenal had finally been crowned champions after more than two decades without the title.

“My oldest son opened the garden door, he started to run towards me, he started to cry, he gave me a hug and said: ‘We are champions, daddy.’”

“Then my other two boys and my wife came over and it was beautiful. Just to see that joy on them as well, that they are always with me, it was magical. A minute later, Martin Odegaard called me on video.”

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The title victory marks a defining achievement for Arteta, who took charge of Arsenal in 2019 and has overseen the club’s transformation from inconsistent top-four contenders into Premier League champions.

The triumph also ends Arsenal’s long wait for a league crown since the famous “Invincibles” season under former manager Arsène Wenger in 2004.

Arteta paid tribute to Arsenal supporters for creating what he described as an extraordinary bond between the team and fans throughout the campaign.

“I think what they have created around the club and the team is incredible to witness,” he said.

“That chemistry, that connection, that passion, it’s something beautiful. I mean, the trophy is great, but that is, in my opinion, something even bigger.”

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Thousands of Arsenal fans gathered outside the Emirates Stadium immediately after confirmation of the title win, celebrating deep into the night as players and staff marked the achievement at the training ground.

Arteta also acknowledged the contribution of Wenger and previous generations at the club, insisting the success was built on years of groundwork.

“We all are responsible, and I really want to make that clear,” he said.

“There’s been so many people in this journey throughout the years, not only since I’ve been here, but as well obviously everything that Arsene built, even though we didn’t achieve the Premier League.”

The Arsenal boss described the celebrations as an emotional release after years of frustration and near misses in recent seasons.

“It was an explosion, an emotional explosion, because everybody’s been just keeping emotions, and lifting those emotions, but not being able to really express them,” Arteta added.

“So when we opened that bottle, I think everybody had so much to release and it’s been incredible to witness.”

Arsenal are expected to receive the Premier League trophy officially after their final fixture of the season at Crystal Palace, with supporters already preparing for what promises to be one of the club’s biggest celebrations in decades.

No Ebola Case Recorded Yet, FG Assures Nigerians

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate

The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in the country, even as authorities intensify nationwide preparedness measures following recent outbreaks reported in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, said the government had activated enhanced surveillance and emergency response mechanisms to strengthen the country’s readiness against any possible outbreak.

According to the minister, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, working through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Port Health Services and other relevant agencies, is closely monitoring developments in collaboration with the World Health Organization and regional health authorities.

“While Nigeria currently has no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease, the Federal Government is taking all necessary proactive measures to strengthen national preparedness, surveillance, and coordination mechanisms to protect the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians,” Pate stated.

The government said several precautionary steps have already been activated across the country, including enhanced disease surveillance, stricter screening procedures at airports and other entry points, improved laboratory readiness and reinforced infection prevention measures in health facilities.

Officials also disclosed that coordination with state ministries of health and relevant stakeholders had been intensified as part of efforts to ensure rapid detection and response in the event of any suspected case.

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The minister urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation, stressing that there was no immediate cause for panic.

He advised citizens to maintain preventive health practices, including regular hand hygiene and avoiding contact with bodily fluids of persons showing symptoms of illness.

Pate also encouraged members of the public to promptly report unusual illnesses to the nearest healthcare facility, while healthcare workers nationwide were directed to maintain a high level of vigilance.

Healthcare professionals have been advised to strictly observe infection prevention and control protocols, quickly isolate suspected cases and report through established public health channels.

Nigeria earned international praise for successfully containing the Ebola outbreak that entered the country in 2014 after an infected Liberian-American traveller arrived in Lagos. Public health experts have since repeatedly cited the country’s emergency response framework as a model for outbreak containment in Africa.

The latest government advisory comes amid renewed concerns across parts of the continent following fresh Ebola cases reported in Central and East Africa, prompting several countries to strengthen border monitoring and disease surveillance systems.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to national health security, Pate said authorities would continue to work with global and regional partners to protect Nigerians and sustain rapid response capabilities against infectious disease threats.

Marwa Warns Nigerians Against ‘Toxic Pop Culture’ Promoting Drug Abuse

Marwa
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mohamed Buba Marwa, has called on Nigerians to confront what he described as a “toxic pop-culture” that glamorises drug abuse and presents illicit substance use as an acceptable lifestyle among young people.

Marwa made the call on Thursday during the official commissioning of the agency’s radio station, Clean Beat 91.5FM, in Abuja, where he said the media platform would serve as a powerful tool in the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign.

According to the former military administrator, the growing influence of music, entertainment, social media trends and popular culture has contributed to the normalisation of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, making prevention and public education more critical than ever.

“We recognize that behind every statistic of drug abuse is a human being. A vulnerable teenager seeking escape; a broken family searching for answers; a brilliant mind derailed but capable of redirection,” Marwa said.

“Through this station, we will drive our narrative softly but firmly. We will counter the toxic pop-culture that glamourizes drug abuse by replacing it with a vibrant, alternative culture—one that celebrates sobriety, showcases real stories of recovery, and provides accurate, life-saving information.”

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The NDLEA boss warned that the consequences of unchecked substance abuse could become devastating for Nigeria’s future if urgent measures are not taken to reshape public attitudes.

“Let us make no mistake: the stakes could not be higher. If we do not control the narrative today, the consequences tomorrow will be catastrophic,” he said.

“Substance abuse is a hydra-headed monster that feeds insecurity, decimates public health, cripples economic productivity, and compromises the very future of our workforce.”

Marwa explained that while the agency remained committed to arrests, prosecutions and dismantling drug syndicates, long-term victory against drug abuse would only come through prevention, education and sustained advocacy.

“With the benefit of hindsight, I have always maintained that while enforcement wins battles, education and prevention win wars,” he stated.

“True victory against the scourge of substance abuse cannot be achieved solely by the cold steel of handcuffs or the iron bars of a prison cell. It is won when we dismantle the demand.”

He described Clean Beat 91.5FM as a “beacon of hope” designed to take anti-drug messages directly into homes, schools, markets and communities across Nigeria.

The NDLEA chairman also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving funding for the radio station, while acknowledging the support of the National Security Adviser, the National Broadcasting Commission and international development partners.

“To all Nigerians, and most especially to our vibrant youth: this station is yours,” Marwa said.

“Let us rewrite the story of our generation; let us guard the health of our nation; and let us protect the rhythm of our future. Together, ladies and gentlemen, let us keep the beat clean.”

The launch drew commendations from local and international stakeholders, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the National Broadcasting Commission and the National Orientation Agency.

UNODC Country Representative Cheikh Ousmane Touré, represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, praised the initiative as an innovative and people-centred approach to drug control.

“Through this platform, NDLEA is taking the drug control message directly to the people — into homes, communities, schools, and streets,” he said.

Director-General of the NBC, Charles Ebuebu, also described the station as more than just another media outlet, saying it represented “the strategic deployment of broadcasting as an instrument of national orientation, behavioural change, youth engagement and social transformation.”

Ebuebu added that the battle against substance abuse should be treated as a national development priority rather than merely a law enforcement issue.

US Indicts Raúl Castro Over 1996 Plane Shootdown as Cuba Condemns Charges

Raul Castro

The United States has formally indicted former Cuban president Raúl Castro on murder and conspiracy charges linked to the 1996 shooting down of two civilian aircraft operated by the Miami-based exile group Brothers to the Rescue, in a dramatic escalation of tensions between Washington and Havana.

Federal prosecutors in Miami announced that Castro, now 94, faces charges including conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals, four counts of murder and destruction of aircraft over the incident that killed four people after Cuban fighter jets shot down the planes over international waters.

According to the indictment, Castro — who was serving as Cuba’s defence minister at the time — allegedly authorised the February 24, 1996 operation in which Cuban MiG fighter jets targeted the unarmed aircraft during a humanitarian mission searching for Cuban refugees near the Florida Straits.

Diaz-Canel

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said the charges represented a long-awaited push for accountability over the deaths of the four men killed in the incident. “We are announcing an indictment charging Raul Castro and several others with conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals,” Blanche said during a ceremony in Miami honouring the victims.

The indictment also names several former Cuban military officials and pilots allegedly involved in the operation. U.S. officials described the move as part of a broader effort by President Donald Trump’s administration to intensify pressure on Cuba’s communist leadership.

Cuba’s government swiftly condemned the charges, accusing Washington of using the legal system for political purposes. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel rejected the indictment and criticised the United States for escalating tensions between the two countries.

“Current accusations are part of a political manoeuvre,” Díaz-Canel said, while Cuban officials insisted the 1996 action was carried out in defence of Cuban airspace following repeated incursions by exile groups.

Cuba’s Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Cossio also responded sharply to comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who blamed Cuba’s economic crisis on government corruption and mismanagement rather than U.S. sanctions.

“The reason why the US secretary of state lies so repeatedly and unscrupulously when referring to Cuba and trying to justify the aggression imposed on the Cuban people is not ignorance or incompetence,” Cossio wrote in a statement posted on social media. “He knows well that there is no excuse for such a cruel and ruthless aggression.”

The case marks one of the most significant legal actions ever taken by the United States against a former Cuban leader and is expected to further strain already fragile diplomatic relations between the longtime Cold War rivals.

Although Castro stepped down as Cuba’s president in 2018 and later relinquished leadership of the Communist Party, he is still regarded as one of the most influential figures within the Cuban political establishment. Analysts, however, say the likelihood of him being extradited to the United States remains extremely low.

The indictment has also sparked international reaction, with China condemning the move and accusing Washington of weaponising judicial mechanisms to pressure Cuba. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the United States should “stop using sanctions and judicial actions as tools of oppression.”

Haaland Congratulates Arsenal on Premier League Title Win After Past ‘Stay Humble’ Jibes

Erling Haaland Congratulates Arsenal on Premier League Title Win After Past ‘Stay Humble’ JibesErling Haaland has extended congratulations to Arsenal following their triumph in the 2025/26 Premier League season, breaking Manchester City’s dominance after a dramatic final stretch of matches.

The Norwegian striker took to social media on Wednesday night after Manchester City’s 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Tuesday confirmed Arsenal as champions, ending the Gunners’ 22-year wait for the title.

In his verified statement, Haaland wrote: “Not the ending we hoped for, but we’ll use this feeling the right way next season. To every City fan who travelled with us this season, Thank you.🙏🏻“Congrats to Arsenal for the title.”

The message marks a notable moment given Haaland’s previous “stay humble” comments directed at Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the club during earlier title race tensions in previous seasons.

Arsenal clinched the title with 82 points, boasting the league’s strongest defence, after City could not overcome Bournemouth’s resistance in a match where Haaland scored a late equaliser that ultimately proved insufficient.

Aston Villa Crowned Europa League Champions with Emphatic 3-0 Triumph Over Freiburg

Aston Villa ended a 44-year wait for European silverware by defeating SC Freiburg 3-0 in the 2026 UEFA Europa League final at Beşiktaş Park in Istanbul on Wednesday night.

Youri Tielemans opened the scoring in the first half, with Emiliano Buendía adding a second just before the break. Morgan Rogers sealed the victory with a third goal after halftime as Unai Emery’s side produced a dominant display to lift the trophy.

The win marks Aston Villa’s first major trophy in 30 years and their first European success since claiming the European Cup in 1982. It also hands Emery a record-extending fifth Europa League title, further cementing his reputation as one of the competition’s greatest managers.

Prince William was among the spectators in Istanbul and joined in the celebrations as Villa’s players and fans erupted at the final whistle. The victory also guarantees the club a place in next season’s Champions League regardless of their Premier League standing.

Emery, who has now led three different clubs to Europa League glory, praised his team’s performance and long-term development following the match. Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who maintained a clean sheet in what was reportedly his seventh straight final victory, was also singled out for praise by teammates and observers.

The final represented a historic night for both clubs, with Freiburg reaching their first-ever European final while Villa delivered a commanding performance to bring the trophy back to Birmingham.

Nigeria Names Squads for Unity Cup, June Friendlies Against Poland, Portugal

The Nigeria Football Federation has unveiled separate Super Eagles squads for the forthcoming Unity Cup tournament and the June international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal, with a blend of established stars, emerging talents and home-based players making the lists.

The announcement, released ahead of the international window, highlights Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming continental and global assignments as the Super Eagles continue to rebuild under a refreshed technical direction.

For the Unity Cup, the coaching crew opted for a balanced squad that features experienced internationals alongside several Nigeria Premier Football League players. Goalkeepers Francis Uzoho of Omonia FC, Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham and Ikorodu City’s Michael Atata were selected for the tournament.

The defensive unit includes Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez, Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu, Slavia Prague centre-back Igoh Ogbu and Rivers United’s Elias Ochobi. Rangers duo Chibueze Oputa and Obinna Igboke also made the list, alongside Olympiakos defender Bruno Onyemaechi.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi headlines the squad alongside Samson Tijani, Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro. The selectors also handed opportunities to home-based players Aderemi Adeoye, Ayobami Junior and Oyedokun Tosin following impressive domestic performances.

The attacking line for the Unity Cup includes Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Philip Otele, Owen Oseni, Zadok Abu Yohanna, Terem Moffi, Rafiu Durosinmi and Femi Azeez.

The Super Eagles will also face Poland on June 3 before taking on Portugal on June 11 in high-profile international friendlies designed to sharpen the squad ahead of future competitive fixtures.

For those games, the technical crew recalled several senior stars, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi. Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho and Arthur Okonkwo were selected as goalkeepers for the two matches.

The defence for the friendlies features Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Emmanuel Fernandez and Igoh Ogbu.

The midfield unit includes Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi and Yusuf Alhassan.

In attack, Nigeria will rely on the firepower of Lookman, Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen and Terem Moffi, with Owen Oseni also earning a place in the squad.

The inclusion of several younger players and NPFL stars in the Unity Cup squad has already generated excitement among fans, while the return of Europe-based regulars for the Poland and Portugal fixtures underlines the importance attached to the international friendlies.

The June matches are expected to provide the Super Eagles coaching staff with another opportunity to assess combinations, test new players and strengthen team chemistry ahead of the next phase of Nigeria’s international campaign.

Defence Headquarters Dismisses Claims of Terrorist Base in South-West, Intensifies Hunt for Oyo School Abductors

The Defence Headquarters has dismissed claims that terrorist groups have established operational bases in Nigeria’s South-West region, insisting that recent criminal attacks in Oyo State do not amount to an entrenched insurgency presence in the zone.

The clarification comes in the wake of the abduction of pupils, students and staff from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, an incident that has sparked widespread concern over growing insecurity in the region.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, the Armed Forces of Nigeria described the attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele; and L.A. Primary School as “callous and reprehensible.”

General Oluyede extended condolences to the families of the victims, the Oyo State Government and Nigerians at large, assuring the public that security forces were fully committed to rescuing all abducted victims safely.

“The abduction of innocent children and staffs is a callous and reprehensible act that strikes at the heart of every Nigerian,” the Defence Chief said.

He added that the Armed Forces had deployed all available resources to ensure the safe and unconditional return of the victims while urging Nigerians to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies during ongoing operations.

Responding to growing public speculation about the presence of terrorist enclaves in the South-West, the Defence Headquarters stated that intelligence reports do not support claims of any permanent insurgent structure operating within the forests or hinterlands of the region.

“Current intelligence assessments do not support the conclusion that any structured or permanent terrorist base exists within the forests or hinterlands of the South West region,” the statement said.

“Criminal elements, however audacious their recent activities, do not constitute an established insurgent presence, and the Defence Headquarters cautions against narratives that may cause unnecessary public panic or embolden adversaries by overstating their capabilities.”

The military revealed that troops had earlier carried out extensive clearance operations in the Old Oyo National Park corridor, where criminal elements had previously operated, significantly degrading their activities in the area.

According to the Defence Headquarters, troops are currently engaged in active pursuit operations across forest corridors and ungoverned areas within the South-West in collaboration with other security agencies, local vigilantes and community members.

The military disclosed that troops recently made contact with the suspected kidnappers and have since regrouped to intensify search-and-rescue efforts aimed at securing the release of the abducted victims.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will not relent until every abducted victim is safely recovered, the criminal networks responsible are dismantled, and normalcy is fully restored across the South West and indeed all of Nigeria,” the statement added.

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