The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to receive $52.88 million in recovered Galactica assets tied to former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, from the United States.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, announced this recovery during the formal signing ceremony of the asset agreement between Nigeria and the U.S. in Abuja on Friday.

Fagbemi revealed that $50 million of the funds will be directed through the World Bank to support rural electrification projects, while the remaining $2 million will go to the International Institute of Justice to enhance the justice system and strengthen anti-corruption efforts.

“This marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States to combat corruption and uphold the rule of law, Fagbemi said, highlighting it as part of President Bola Tinubu’s strategy to address corruption.

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, urged the Ministry of Justice to ensure proper monitoring and effective utilization of the recovered funds to maximize their impact on Nigerians.

The post FG to receive $52.88m linked to ex-minister Diezani appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Nigerian Police Force have confirmed the arrest of an individual implicated in a massive N1.09 billion procurement scam in Enugu State.

Details of the arrest remain scarce, but police officials revealed that the National Cyber Crime Centre investigated the matter and successfully recovered the stolen funds.

This information was disclosed in a statement released by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, titled “Enugu State Government account was never hacked — Police confirms.”

According to the statement, rumors circulating online about the Enugu State Government’s account being hacked are entirely false. The issue at hand is a case of procurement fraud, not a cyber breach.

“The Nigeria Police Force hereby categorically dismiss the false narrative and rumour circulating online about an alleged hack of the Enugu State Government’s official account, resulting in the theft of N1.09 billion.

“This assertion is completely unfounded. There has been no hacking of the Enugu State Government’s account, and the allegations of theft amounting to N1.09 billion are entirely baseless.

“The case, which was investigated by the NPF-National Cyber Crime Centre (NCCC), was a procurement fraud case, not a cyber-breach. The suspect has been arrested in connection with this fraud, and the funds have already been recovered.”

The police also highlighted the Enugu State Government’s collaboration with the NCCC to establish robust security protocols safeguarding financial systems.

“The Enugu State Government and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government and corporate firms are in partnership with the NCCC, and have established comprehensive and fortified security protocols to safeguard their financial systems.”

The police urged the public to verify information through credible sources, avoiding misinformation.

In a separate development, the Enugu State Police Command released its 2024 operational report on January 2, 2025, showcasing notable achievements in combating crime.

The report, signed by spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe, revealed the arrest of 1,072 suspects for various crimes, including armed robbery and kidnapping. Additionally, 200 firearms and 124 vehicles were recovered.

The post Police debunk Enugu govt account hacking allegations, recover N1.09bn appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

At least two police officers were killed when a clutch of rampaging Boko Haram terrorists attacked the Nganzai Police Division in Borno State.

The terrorists were said to have attempted to invade the police station on Wednesday at about 12:10 a.m. but were repelled by the cops on duty.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed the development in a statement on Thursday.

The statement reads, “At about 12:10 am, unknown gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram terrorists attempted to invade Nganzai Police Division. Gallant officers on duty repelled the terrorists after a series of gun battles.”

During the attack, Daso said the terrorists threw hand grenades, causing injuries to two officers.

“The terrorists threw hand grenades, which unfortunately landed on a shelter tent behind the division, fatally wounding two officers,” Daso said.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Borno State Police Command, Yusufu Lawal, visited the station.

Lawal commended the officers for their bravery and offered condolences to the families of the deceased officers.

“The Commissioner of Police, Borno State Police Command, Yusufu Mohammed Lawal, psc, visited Nganzai Police Division today, 9th January 2025, commended officers for their resilience, and condoled with the families of the two officers who lost their lives,” the statement added.

He also noted that the police recovered explosives belonging to the terrorists during the scene assessment.

“During the scene assessment by the Commissioner of Police, two hand grenades were recovered by the EOD-CBRN Base 13, Maiduguri. The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the State General Hospital, Maiduguri.”

“The Commissioner of Police commended the gallant officers who stood their ground to prevent the attack and condoled with the families of the two officers who lost their lives,” he said.

The police spokesman, however, reiterated the command’s dedication and commitment to ensuring safety and security for all in the state

The post Boko Haram kills two officers in Borno police station attack appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Kaduna State chapter of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), in collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs) and other key stakeholders, has voiced strong opposition to the federal government’s proposed tax reform bills.

During a town hall meeting in Kaduna, participants called for reducing Value Added Tax (VAT) from the current rate to 3%, rather than the proposed increase to 15%.

The gathering included policymakers, academics, youth groups, and citizens, all of whom expressed concern over the socioeconomic impact of the proposed reforms.

A communiqué issued at the meeting, signed by Comrade Muhammed Sanusi Ali on behalf of 134 Kaduna-based CSOs and NGOs, highlighted concerns about potential amendments to the VAT distribution formula and the defunding of agencies like NITDA, TETFUND, and NASENI.

Key points raised in the communiqué include:

• The lack of clear definitions for terms such as “derivation” and “family wealth” in the proposed bills.
• Criticism of the current system that allocates VAT revenue based on a company’s headquarters location rather than where services are consumed.
• Concerns that the reforms could exacerbate economic hardships, deepen poverty, increase unemployment, and hinder local business growth.

The communiqué urged the federal government to halt VAT increases and lower the rate to 3% to relieve financial pressure on businesses and citizens, stimulating economic activity.

Additionally, the meeting recommended:

• The relocation of banks and telecommunications companies’ headquarters to Abuja for equitable distribution of revenue benefits.
• Exclusive engagement by Northern governors and organizations with banks that comply with this recommendation.
• The reopening of land borders, citing the devastating economic impact of their continued closure on border communities.

The CNG emphasized that such changes are critical to ensuring fairness and fostering economic recovery in the region.

The post Northern Groups Demand VAT Reduction to 3% appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia on Thursday raised concerns over the displacement of over 1,000 households due to recent attacks by armed invaders in rural areas of the state.

The governor disclosed this during a meeting with the Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, Paula Pace, and Alexandre Castellano, Head of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operation, at the Government House in Makurdi.

Governor Alia highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address the crisis and foster peace in affected communities. Despite efforts by his administration to curb the violence, the attacks persist.

According to the IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) report from June 2024, Benue State currently hosts 500,182 displaced persons, accounting for 38% of the displaced population in the region.

These individuals are spread across 26 camps and 185 host communities, facing dire conditions with inadequate shelter, limited access to clean water and sanitation, insufficient healthcare services, and weak protection mechanisms.

“Despite ongoing efforts, recent attacks have displaced over 1,000 households between December 29 and today, as reported by the latest DTM findings,” Governor Alia stated.

He also expressed concern about the negative coping mechanisms adopted by affected populations, including early marriages and transactional activities. He reduced food intake, which disproportionately impact women, children, and persons with disabilities.

In a bid to support vulnerable groups, the state government has enrolled over 6,273 individuals from 15 IDP camps into the Benue State Health Insurance Scheme, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

Paula Pace pledged the IOM’s continued support, stating, “We are here to bring more partners to work for the people of Benue and assist in their journey toward peace.”

Alexandre Castellano emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that their organization works alongside other humanitarian partners to address the humanitarian crisis in the state.

The post 1,000 Benue Households Displaced in One Week – Governor Alia appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

Ministers and Directors-General of federal agencies faced rigorous questioning yesterday as Senate committees commenced defence sessions for the 2025 budget.

The Senate Committee on Appropriations interrogated Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, alongside Budget and Economic Planning Minister Senator Atiku Bagudu. Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and Ali Mohammed Ali of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) appeared before the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation.

During the session, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) pressed Edun to explain the expenditure of proceeds from the fuel subsidy removal and how much was saved during the 2024 fiscal year.

Ningi also sought clarity on the nation’s debt servicing costs and questioned whether extending the capital component of the 2024 budget to June 30, 2025, would yield effective implementation given the low current success rate.

Responding to the barrage of questions, Edun requested a closed-door session for detailed explanations, saying, “Are we in a closed-door session? If not, I humbly request one to provide detailed responses.”

Following this request, Committee Chairman Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (APC, Ogun West) asked journalists to leave the hall for a private discussion.

Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation directed the NOA DG, Issa-Onilu, and his NAN counterpart, Ali, to revise and resubmit their 2025 budget proposals.

Committee Chairman Senator Kenneth Eze (APC, Ebonyi Central) criticized the NOA for the poor visibility of its national identity project at the grassroots level.

Similarly, NAN’s DG was instructed to reconcile inconsistencies in the 2024 budget implementation before submitting the 2025 projections.

The post Edun, Bagudu Grilled as Senate Begins 2025 Budget Defence appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, and security experts have urged Southwest governors to take immediate coordinated action against the rising influx of bandits into the region.

Retired military officers, General B.M. Shafa and Lieutenant Colonel Abdulwahab Ademola Lawal, emphasized the importance of proper coordination and intelligence sharing between security agencies and local hunters to curb the escalating security challenge.

Concerns intensified after Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, raised an alarm on Monday about bandits displaced from Northwest Nigeria infiltrating his state.

Gani Adams, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, also appealed to regional governors to urgently address the looming security threats posed by the bandits.

Afenifere spokesperson Jare Ajayi, in a statement from Ibadan, urged swift action, stating, “Governor Makinde’s warning should not be taken lightly given the nature of these threats.”

He called for an immediate meeting among Southwest governors to strategize on expelling the bandits and preventing future infiltration.

Ajayi stressed that traditional rulers, security agencies, and local vigilantes must be involved in implementing security measures to protect Yorubaland. He also urged community leaders to report any suspicious activities.

Meanwhile, the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission highlighted the need for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s security system, advocating for full decentralization of policing.

Dr. Seye Oyeleye, Director-General of DAWN, praised the success of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, in addressing community security needs, asserting that the model demonstrates the effectiveness of localized policing while upholding professional standards.

The post Afenifere, Security Experts Urge Southwest Governors to Counter Bandit Influx appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Nigerian military to intensify efforts and take proactive measures in combating bandits and terrorists, particularly in their strongholds.

The president’s directive followed the tragic loss of six soldiers during a terrorist attack at dawn on January 4, 2025, targeting an army base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State.

Emphasizing the need for intensified operations in the Northwest region, where criminals have continued to threaten innocent lives, Tinubu urged the armed forces to carry the fight directly to the camps of the insurgents.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president called for a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances leading to the attack and ensure lessons are learned to prevent future occurrences.

Commending the military’s swift and decisive response, particularly the air component, Tinubu praised their effective retaliatory strikes that led to the neutralization of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets as they attempted to flee.

Expressing condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, Tinubu stated that their sacrifice would forever be honoured.

“This resolute action by the army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security.

Their actions testify to our resolve to eradicate terrorism and banditry, paving the way for a future where peace and security prevail for all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.

The president thanked the armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication, and reaffirmed the nation’s support for their efforts.

He also appealed to Nigerians and the media to back the military in restoring peace and security across the country.

The post Tinubu Urges Military to Intensify Efforts Against Terrorists appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

President Bola Tinubu has decorated his aide-de-camp, Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, with the rank of Colonel.

Tinubu on Thursday praised Yusuf as a trustworthy officer who earned his rank elevation, saying that his promotion was well deserved.

Lt. Col. Yusuf’s promotion to Colonel was approved by the Nigerian Army Promulgation AHQ MS/G1/300/252/2 on December 19, 2024, with seniority effective September 22, 2023.

“You all know Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf. He carries a lot of responsibilities. I am joyous that the military authorities have promoted my ADC.

“He is worthy of the promotion, and I am very happy for him. Nurudeen is a diligent and reliable officer with the right temperament. I believe he will achieve greatness in his profession.

“We are with you. We love and really care about you. We will continue to do so. Character defines man, and it has defined you. With your promotion, you are highly respected. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you. We thank God for you.

“May God bless our armed forces and keep them safe,” the President said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu also commended the ADC’s wife for maintaining a stable home front while Yusuf served the nation.

Col. Yusuf expressed gratitude to the President for trusting him as Aide-de-Camp since May 2023, pledging loyalty to him and the country.

“I stand here today filled with immense gratitude and humility as I reflect on this remarkable occasion of my decoration with the rank of Colonel in the Nigerian Army.

“This moment is a personal milestone and a testament to the enduring values of the unwavering support of those around me.

“First and foremost, I thank the Almighty Allah for His grace, guidance, and blessings upon my career and life. Without Him, this day would not have been possible.

“To His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply honoured by the privilege to be granted promotion to this enviable rank.

“I wish to use this unique opportunity to restate that your leadership and trust have been a source of inspiration, and serving as your Aide-de-Camp has been a profound privilege and the highest honour of my career.

“Thank you for your confidence in me and for being here to share in this special moment,” he said.

Notable attendees included AbdulRazaq AbdulRahmon, governor of Kwara; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser; Kayode Egbetokun, inspector general of police; Christopher Musa, Chief of defense staff; and Bello Matawalle, minister for state defense.

Others present were Kudirat Yusuf, the ADC’s mother; Ganiyat Yusuf, his wife, and Abiodun Yusuf, his daughter.

The post PHOTOS: ‘You’re going places in your career’ — Tinubu decorates aide-de-camp with new rank appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Nigerian military has indicted foreign countries in the deepening security crisis, especially perennial terrorism, that the country is grappling with.

The military alleged that these countries are providing Boko Haram with weapons and financial support for their heinous activities.

The Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria, General Christopher Musa, levelled the allegation during an interview with Al Jazeera on the lingering security crisis in Nigeria.

General Musa expressed concerns regarding the continued nefarious activities of Boko Haram over the past 16 years, despite the Nigerian military’s efforts to eliminate the group.

He specifically pointed to evidence that many Boko Haram fighters captured by the military were found in possession of funds linked to powerful foreign nations, suggesting that international actors may be complicit in supporting the group.

General Musa called on the United Nations to investigate the sources of funding and training for Boko Haram militants, highlighting the group’s continued operations despite the military’s acclaimed successes in weakening them.

He noted that these militants have also devised new strategies, such as using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for surveillance and targeting security forces.

Addressing why Boko Haram continues to regroup and carry out attacks, Musa pointed to the financial support from foreign entities. He further urged the United Nations to step in and help identify those funding and arming the insurgents.

“Over 120,000 Boko Haram members have surrendered, and many have been found with money from powerful foreign countries. Where are they getting this money? Who is training them? Who is supplying them with weapons?” Musa said.

He emphasized the need for the international community to investigate the global funding networks that enable Boko Haram to continue its insurgency.

While expressing uncertainty about which countries might be sabotaging Nigeria’s security, General Musa stressed that Nigeria is not the only country in the Sahel and West Africa facing such challenges.

The post Foreign countries backing, sponsoring Boko Haram terrorists — Nigerian military appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.