The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

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Southern governors insist on state police creation

Echoes of state police, true federalism and effective grassroots security reverberated loudly yesterday as governors of southern states met in Iperu, Ogun State to discuss the state of the nation.

Governors of Ekiti, Enugu, Ondo, Rivers, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Ebonyi, Anambra, Lagos, Bayelsa and Imo states were in attendance while governors of Cross Rivers, Edo, Oyo and Osun were represented.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, in his opening remarks, said the region now stands at a pivotal moment marked by rising security threats, economic pressures and the urgent need for coordinated leadership.

He added that recent mass abductions in schools, religious centres, and rural communities across the country demonstrate that no region is insulated from organised criminality or violent extremism.

He said: “As we deliberate on the security architecture of southern Nigeria, it is important to state clearly that the creation of state police remains a non-negotiable component of our collective demand for true federalism and effective grassroots security.”

He disclosed that a dedicated Regional Rapid Response Fund would be essential for emergency deployments, rescue operations, forensic support, and inter-state training exercises.

He contended that at the state level, measures such as mandatory documentation of foreign nationals, dismantling unlawful enclaves, regulating scavenger activities, intensified forest operations, and a crackdown on illegal mining must be pursued with renewed vigour.

“Community policing remains a critical pillar in strengthening the security architecture of southern Nigeria, as it brings security operations closer to the grassroots where threats are first observed.

“By empowering local communities, traditional rulers, and neighbourhood structures to work collaboratively with formal security agencies, community policing provides early-warning signals, enhances intelligence gathering, and improves trust between citizens and law enforcement.

“The formation of these frameworks enables quicker identification of suspicious movements, better protection of schools, farms, and border towns, and more responsive interventions along critical road corridors.”

Governor Abiodun explained that it was imperative for southern states to strengthen joint security task forces, share intelligence seamlessly and adopt regional strategies to confront similar threats.

“I am confident that we can confront the challenges before us and chart a new path of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for the entire southern region of Nigeria.”

He argued that the meeting goes beyond geographical proximity, noting that it is a union defined by shared aspirations, common challenges, and a collective determination to build a future of stability and prosperity for the people.

He stated that the convergence reflects the same spirit of unity and cooperation that guided the forefathers in the old Southern Protectorate long before the 1914 amalgamation.

He added that the historical consciousness must continue to guide collaborative efforts ”as we navigate the complex realities of our contemporary Nigerian federation.

Abiodun commended President Bola Tinubu’s prompt response to recent security threats witnessed in some parts of the country.

Applauding the president for his exceptional leadership in responding to the recent wave of abductions targeting schoolchildren, he explained that his decision to personally coordinate rescue efforts rather than delegating responsibility demonstrated a rare commitment to the protection of every Nigerian life.

He added that the successful rescue of abducted students is evidence of a security strategy that has become more coordinated, intelligence-driven, and responsive.

He stressed that this act of leadership reassures citizens that the safety of children remains a top national priority and that Nigeria will not allow criminals, insurgents, or opportunistic elements to undermine the nation’s stability.

“The president’s swift action reminds us that leadership is measured not only in policy decisions but also in empathy, urgency, and decisive intervention.

“Also, his commitment to national development is further reflected in the unprecedented scale of infrastructure projects currently underway across the country.

“The Lagos–Calabar coastal highway and the Sokoto–Badagry superhighway are transformative investments that will reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape, unlock new corridors of trade, and strengthen national integration.

“The president has implemented far-reaching socio-economic reforms that are already yielding visible and measurable dividends and has consistently affirmed that an indivisible and united Nigeria is the foundation of sustainable prosperity.”

November 27, 2025
Senate mulls imposing death penalty for kidnapping

The Senate on Wednesday resolved to amend Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism Act to prescribe a death penalty without the option of a fine for all kidnapping offences.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the decision after a majority of senators supported the proposal through a voice vote during plenary.

The resolution followed an additional prayer moved by Abdul Ningi, (PDP, Bauchi Central) during a debate on rising cases of kidnapping in the country.

Mr Ningi urged the Senate to mandate its Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to draft an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act that would classify kidnapping as a terrorist offence and automatically attract the death penalty, irrespective of circumstances or jurisdiction.

The motion was seconded by Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), who argued that the amendment should be in a way that removes all judicial discretion in sentencing.

“Appropriate legal system that the offence of kidnapping should carry death penalty for which no judge should have power of any discretion to laws by parliament in this case because the issue is serious,” he said.

Mr Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, also called on state governors to be willing to sign death warrants.

“If you indulge me, I’ll also urge the governors to have the courage to uphold the letter of the constitution. Governors should proceed to sign the appropriate death sentences. That is why I signed the death penalty when I was a governor. Some other governors refused to sign,” the senator added.

Endorsing the proposal, Mr Akpabio said the Senate’s position was that once kidnapping is established in court, a death sentence must follow.

“A very serious additional amendment has been made that the penalty for kidnapping should be changed immediately to carry the maximum punishment of death.

This has also been seconded that henceforth, kidnapping should first be classified as a terrorist act and which should carry death penalty. It is not up to any judge. Once the offence of kidnapping is established, a death penalty must follow. There’s no discretion as to what type of punishment should be given. The judiciary should adhere,” he said.

The senate president subsequently put the motion to vote and it was approved by the majority.

He then directed the senate leader to urgently prepare an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act to classify kidnapping as terrorism and make the offence punishable by death without the option of a fine or judicial discretion.

“In line with the provisions of the Terrorist Act, the offence of kidnapping henceforth should carry death penalty. The leader of the Senate should bring an amendment of the Act to ensure that the offence of kidnapping becomes a Terrorist Act and which ca⁰rries a death sentence without any option of fine and without discretion on the part of the judiciary.

“Leader of the Senate, in the shortest number of days, please bring an amendment that Nigeria will henceforth classify kidnapping as a Terrorist Act and also classify kidnapping being a terrorist act should now carry death sentence without option of fine,” he directed.

Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism Act prescribes a death penalty for kidnapping when the offence results in the death of a victim. Where no death occurs, other penalties apply depending on the circumstances, including life imprisonment for offences such as hostage-taking and kidnapping.

The Act also criminalises the payment of ransom, prescribing a minimum sentence of 15 years for anyone who pays ransom to secure a victim’s release.

Kidnapping and ransom-taking have become increasingly rampant across the country, with terrorist groups turning the crime into a lucrative enterprise.

Earlier during the debate, Plateau Central Senator, Diket Plang, noted that terrorists rely heavily on ransom payments as a major source of funding, which they use to purchase arms and sustain their operations.

However, despite the frequency of attacks, many kidnapping cases end with the release of victims but without any arrests.

For instance, the 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, were freed on Tuesday after security intervention, but none of the abductors was apprehended.

Also, 38 worshippers of a church in Eruku, Kwara State, were rescued last Sunday, but none of their abductors was arrested.

November 27, 2025
BREAKING: Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls Regain Freedom

The schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State have regained their freedom.

A source familiar with the government’s coordinated rescue effort disclosed that their release followed a non-kinetic intervention spearheaded by the Federal Government.

According to the source, the operation succeeded through close collaboration between the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS), who worked behind the scenes to secure the girls’ freedom without resorting to force.

The source explained that this reliance on a non-kinetic approach—centred on dialogue, negotiation, and other peaceful measures—reflects a continuing shift in the government’s strategy for addressing mass abductions, which have repeatedly affected the northern region in recent years.

The incident had sparked widespread concern across the country, prompting the Chief of Army Staff to direct troops to intensify search-and-rescue efforts in the area.

News of the girls’ release has brought immense relief to their families and the wider community, who had endured days of fear and uncertainty.

Authorities are expected to begin rehabilitation and reintegration processes for the rescued students as investigations into the circumstances of the abduction continue.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the rescue of the schoolgirls at the time of filing this report.

Recall that on November 17, bandits attacked the school and abducted 25 female students after killing a staff member and injuring a security guard.

Meanwhile, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has demanded a full military investigation to identify and hold accountable the commander who allegedly ordered the withdrawal of soldiers from the school shortly before the abduction.

The governor described the incident as an act of “clear sabotage”.

The military, in a statement, confirmed that the matter is currently under investigation.

In a related development, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, visited Kebbi State on Tuesday.

Addressing personnel during his operational tour, the IGP vowed to defeat bandits and kidnappers and restore peace to the troubled state. ThisDay

November 25, 2025
Akpabio leads senators on condolence visit to late Sen.Ezea’s family

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday led a Senate delegation to condole with the family of Senator Okechukwu Ezea, who died on November 18.

The Senate had earlier adjourned Tuesday’s plenary to allow senators to pay a condolence visit to the Abuja home of the senator who, until his death, represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate.

In his remarks, Akpabio told the family members that the visit was to identify with them in their time of grieving and mourning and to let them know that they were not alone.

The Senate President remarked further, “It is not always a very good experience to stay with a colleague for over two years, see each other daily, see him more than family members, and then all of a sudden he vanishes just like that.

“We are gathered here in our numbers to commiserate with your family and to let you know that you are not alone in mourning your late husband, father, brother, and your late uncle, Distinguished Senator Ezea.

“For the brief period that we have interacted with him in the Senate, he was a man of peace. He was a man who related to his colleagues with dignity and respect.

“You can imagine the shock when we heard of his demise because there was never a time he walked into the chamber and showed that he was sick in any form. But the news came suddenly that he had passed on.”

Responding, the son of the late senator, Jideofor Ezea, thanked the Senate President and his entourage for the visit, adding that the family would always remember the gesture.

He appreciated the lawmakers for their words of encouragement and prayers, which he said had given them comfort. Sun

November 25, 2025
INEC Chairman, Amupitan, Swears-in Prof. Rahmon Tella as Oyo REC

In a ceremony presided over by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, Professor Rahmon Tella was sworn in today, 25th November 2025, to resume his role as the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Oyo State, marking a significant moment in the commission’s ongoing pursuit of electoral excellence.

The event was characterized by a profound sense of solemnity and purpose, set by the commanding yet dignified presence of Chairman Amupitan. In his opening remarks, he was hailed as the architect of a renewed INEC, whose unwavering commitment to principle and punctuality is setting a new standard for the nation’s democratic institutions.

Administering the oath, Professor Amupitan framed the moment with gravitas, stating, “An occasion of an oath-taking is a solemn occasion. It is an occasion that calls to duty.” He articulated the immense trust bestowed upon the commissioner, whose redeployment places him once again at the forefront of Nigeria’s democratic journey in Oyo State.

In a keynote address that resonated with moral clarity and vision, Chairman Amupitan delivered a powerful charge, declaring that INEC’s mission under his watch transcends regulatory duty, representing a sacred “moral and legal duty” to the Nigerian people.

“I admonish you that the integrity of our election is not negotiable,” he stated firmly, setting the uncompromising tone that has become the hallmark of his tenure. “You must uphold the highest standard of professionalism and integrity in every action you take… Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated.”

He further outlined a clear and ambitious roadmap for the REC, emphasizing that the primary goal is to instill in every voter the unshakable confidence that their choice truly counts. Under his strategic direction, he urged Professor Tella to be “a beacon of hope and democratic values.”

In his response, Professor Tella expressed deep gratitude for the Chairman’s exemplary guidance. “The honorable chairman’s remarks are very much being with value and experience,” he said, pledging to align his work with the Chairman’s vision.

November 25, 2025
Anichukwu Honoured By ECWA Church For Outstanding Community Service

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Enugu State on Media, Uche Anichukwu, has been conferred with an award of honour by the Evangelical Church Winning All, ECWA, for what the church described as his outstanding service to his community, Nomeh Unataeze in Nkanu East Local Government Area of the state.

The honour was bestowed on him at an Award Service on Sunday where the church also recognised a few other persons, including Elder Joseph Orji (Joebest), Elder Sunday Orji, Elder Nkemdirim Orji, and Pastor Chinedu Onovo, for contributions to community development and support for the gospel.

Bestowing the award on Anichukwu and others, the ECWA Bishop and Chairman of Enugu District Church Council, Rev. Chinedu Okechukwu, said the award service, which he said had both physical and spiritual meanings, was based on verifiable impact on the community and the church.

“It is set aside to recognise and celebrate some of our outstanding members, who have faithfully supported the church all these years. It is also a time to recognise those who have contributed greatly to the development of Nomeh community.

“This award ceremony has both physical and spiritual meanings. Physically, the award is to appreciate those who have been making outstanding contributions to the community and to the church of Jesus Christ. Spiritually, the award is to remind everyone that a day of reward is coming as we noted today in our bible reading,” he explained.

Speaking also, the resident priest of ECWA Church Nomeh, Pastor Friday Onole, commended the recipients for serving their community, urging others to emulate them. He extolled Anichukwu and other recipients for always prioritising their people, community, and the gospel.

In his acceptance speech, Anichukwu, who thanked ECWA Church for the honour, also paid glowing tributes to his late parents, Governor Peter Mbah, and former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, among others. Harping on the theme of grace, he described them as God’s instruments, as the award was made possible through their mentorship and intervention projects in Nomeh community.

“I commend ECWA Church for encouraging us to do more for our communities. I dedicate this award to my late father, Rabbi Gabriel Anichukwu, and my mother, the late Senior Mother-in-Israel, Josephine Anichukwu. As teachers, they helped to mentor me in service to the community. It is also dedicated to my immediate family, who always stands in the gap for me.

“I dedicate it to the performing governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah. He is doing the Nomeh-Mburubu-Nara Road, the Nomeh-Oduma Road. He is building a Smart Green School, Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centre, among others that are in the making. He has turned not just Nomeh but also the entire Enugu State into a huge construction site in line with his inclusive development model.

“I must also pay tribute to my former principal, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who heard my cry and the cry of my people and initiated the Nenwe-Nomeh-Mburubu-Nara Road with a spur to Oduma. That road got to Nomeh. Before his intervention, a journey to Nomeh was a thorough agony. Today, it is history.

“I needed to put these things in perspective because they all combined to magnify my modest personal contributions.

“Again, I can only urge Ndi Enugu to continue to fervently pray for our dear governor, and support him as he continues to translate his humongous vision for Enugu State into reality,” he stated.

November 25, 2025
Court Restrains Police From Carrying Out Further Arrests in Enugu Community

The Enugu State High Court has barred the Nigerian Police Force and its tactical units from conducting further arrests or harassment of ten applicants and more than seventy residents of Mburubu community in Nkanu East LGA.

The order, issued by Justice C. O. Ajah, followed an application filed on November 24, 2025, in which the applicants alleged a pattern of unlawful arrests, torture, detention, and coercion linked to a long-running dispute over the community’s traditional stool.

PACESETTER reports that the once peaceful Mburubu community has been embroiled in disputes and litigations following the contest for the kingship of the community after the death of HRH Igwe E. M. O. Ezeh in 2021, with factions loyal to Prince Lawrence Ezeh — the late monarch’s son and current Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology — and Ozo Patrick Onuakaibe, a contender for the kingship position, trading blames and accusations.

According to the applicants, the crisis stemmed from the persistent refusal of Ozo Patrick Onuakaibe to abide by the community’s 2003 constitution governing the rotation of the Igweship among the six villages of Mburubu.

The applicants claimed that the constitution, which was upheld by the High Court judgment delivered on January 12, 2025, disqualified Onuakaibe from contesting for the Igweship position since he hails from Umunafor, the fifth in the order of seniority, while the throne is due to rotate to Uhunegbe, the second senior village.

The applicants further claimed that the court restrained him from parading himself as Igwe or hosting any traditional function in that capacity.

Despite the clear ruling, Elder Ozo Emmanuel Aniobi stated that Onuakaibe began publishing invitations online for a New Yam Festival, a development that led to the “unlawful arrest” of some youths and elderly persons.

Some of the applicants who spoke after the court’s ruling narrated alleged stories of torture and brutalization by the police.

The applicants and their supporters expressed relief, insisting that only the strict enforcement of the court’s orders and a firm intervention by the state government can prevent a further breakdown of peace.

November 25, 2025
[SPONSORED] Patrick Ubru Bags Ph.D in Philosophy of Economics, Unveils New Book on Smart Agriculture

Doris Ewoh, Enugu

The Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Dr. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, has earned a Ph.D in the Philosophy of Economics with a focus on Agricultural Production, Climate Resilience, and Agricultural Credit Financing.

Dr. Ubru who also unveiled his new book titled ‘Monitoring and Evaluation Manual on Smart Agriculture Integration in Enugu State’, received his doctoral degree during the 21st Convocation Ceremony of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Agbani, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025. A reception and formal book presentation followed at the Post Primary Schools Management Board (PPSMB), Enugu.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ubru said his pursuit of personal growth and national development motivated him to advance academically and produce a research-driven book.

He attributed part of his inspiration to the leadership style of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State, noting that the governor’s approach to governance encouraged him to document a framework for monitoring agricultural projects.

“From what I have observed in the agriculture sector, I was deeply motivated by how Governor Mbah identifies and corrects structural issues,” he said. “In the ministry, we needed a way to compare outputs and measure whether they meet project objectives. I conducted research, consulted scholars, and developed this evaluation manual to help us monitor projects and ensure effective management of the governor’s investments in agriculture.”

Reviewing the book, Prof. Christian Enete described it as a strategic resource that positions Enugu State at the forefront of modern agricultural management and policy accountability.

“The manual provides the Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization with a framework to enhance agricultural integration.

“Evaluation is not just an agricultural exercise but a tool for decision-making, transparency, and accountability.”

Prof. Enete added that the book aligns with Governor Mbah’s vision to transform Enugu State into a hub of agro-industrial productivity and food security through data-driven agricultural systems.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, congratulated Dr. Ubru for making the Executive Council proud, noting that his achievement reflects the governor’s commitment to supporting the personal advancement of public officials.

He emphasized that the book has cross-sector relevance, not only for agricultural experts but also for policymakers and development practitioners.

Former chairman of the Enugu State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Martin Chukwunwike, who chaired the event, commended Dr. Ubru for investing in personal development despite the demands of public office.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremmadu, described Dr. Ubru’s academic feat as a testament to his hard work, resilience, and intellectual depth. He expressed eagerness to read the book and wished him greater achievements ahead.

The event was attended by members of the Enugu State Executive Council, lawmakers, clergy, farmers, friends, and well-wishers.

November 25, 2025
[SPONSORED] Ngozi Nick-Ogbodo Bags Ph.D in Chemical Engineering

Dr. Ngozi Nick-Ogbodo, a seasoned engineer in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, has earned a Ph.D in Chemical Engineering, specializing in Process Optimization and Biomedical Modelling.

She received the doctoral degree during the 21st Convocation Ceremony of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the university’s Convocation Arena in Agbani.

Dr. Nick-Ogbodo is widely recognized for her intellectual depth and professional competence, both within the oil and gas sector and in her roles as a mother and wife. Known for her determination and drive, she continues to raise the bar for women in a male-dominated field, demonstrating resilience, excellence, and unwavering commitment to her goals. Her academic and professional journey has been described as inspiring.

Her husband, Dr. Engr. Nick Ogbodo, praised her dedication to both family and career, describing her as an exceptional wife, mother, and professional.

“Congratulations to the best wife any man could desire, a virtuous woman, a woman of God, and the pillar of the Nick-Ogbodo dynasty,” he said.

“Your ability to raise our children and manage our home despite its challenges makes you not just a jewel or a diamond, but one in a billion. You have consistently demonstrated intellectual depth, competence in the upstream oil and gas sector, and total commitment to your responsibilities as a wife and mother.”

Reflecting on her academic journey, he recalled her outstanding performance during her master’s program at the University of Lagos, where she pursued a Master’s degree in Process Engineering, as well as her PhD journey.

“…you emerged as the best graduating student in your set. That achievement proves that determination, focus, and dedication are the keys to success, just as your supervisor, Prof. Usman, emphasized.

“Your trips between Lagos and Enugu, the countless hours spent in research laboratories, your presentations, and the multiple defenses that shaped your research all demonstrate your remarkable capacity to excel at anything you pursue.”

He added that in a world where women are often not fully acknowledged for their leadership and impact, his wife has distinguished herself academically, professionally, and in upholding strong family values.

“Your rise to a leadership position in an international oil and gas company, where you help shape strategies to ramp up crude and gas production for national development, is further proof of your professional prowess.”

Dr. Ngozi Nick-Ogbodo hails from Agbani in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

November 24, 2025
Enugu Govt to Hold Town Hall on Digital Land Transformation, Dec 2

The Enugu State Government has announced that it will hold a major Stakeholders’ Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, as part of its ambitious Digital Land Transformation Programme.

The meeting, which will take place at The Dome Hall of the Enugu International Conference Centre beginning at 10:00 a.m. prompt, is expected to bring together a wide range of land-related stakeholders from across the state.

The government, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Malachy Agbo, explained that the Town Hall is being convened under the visionary leadership of Governor Peter Mbah to provide the public with clear and accessible guidance on land ownership, the ongoing Revalidation and Digitization processes, government-approved layouts, and the full operation of the state’s modernised digital land administration system.

The initiative, the statement noted, is part of the administration’s commitment to transparency, citizen engagement, and a land management framework that protects the rights and investments of all landowners.

According to the government, the event is open to a wide spectrum of participants, including political leaders, individual landowners, families and community landholders, estate developers, layout coordinators, surveyors, realtors, lawyers, professional bodies, traditional rulers, town unions, business owners, religious organisations, financial institutions, academics, media professionals, civil society organisations, development partners, and every citizen with an interest in land matters.

The Town Hall is expected to serve as a critical platform for clarifying issues, answering public questions, and ensuring that all stakeholders understand their roles and obligations under the new digital system.

Speaking further on the importance of the meeting, the Commissioner emphasised that participants will have the opportunity to protect their land and investments by obtaining first-hand information from government officials, gaining clarity on compliance requirements, understanding key timelines and deadlines, and verifying government-approved layouts to avoid falling victim to land fraud.

He added that attendees will also witness live demonstrations of the new digital land system and learn how to properly document and secure their family land records for future generations.

One of the major highlights of the Town Hall will be the special on-site service available to landowners. As part of the engagement, the government will set up several service points at the venue to enable participants experience, in real time, the seamless documentation, verification, and digital conversion of their land records.

Landowners who wish to take advantage of this opportunity are advised to arrive at least one hour before the event and to come with copies of their land documents.

The statement described the engagement as an important opportunity for all stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the transformative changes underway in the state’s land administration sector.

November 24, 2025
Alleged Christian Genocide: NSA Leads FG Delegation to Meet US Secretary of War

…Federal Government Delegation, US Officials Strengthen Security Partnership

Discussions and engagements held last week between a high-level Nigerian delegation and US officials will help strengthen security partnerships between the two countries and open new avenues for cooperation to protect Nigerian citizens, a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has revealed.

The delegation, led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.

In all engagements in Washington, DC, the Nigerian delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, emphasising that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines. The delegation strongly rejected wrongful framing of the situation, saying such would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground.

According to the statement, following these engagements, the United States Government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria. This includes enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and the potential provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.

The United States also expressed its willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.

Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to the agreed areas of cooperation.

In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.

The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.

Members of the delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

November 24, 2025
BREAKING: 38 worshippers abducted in Kwara regain freedom, as 51 Niger Catholic school students recovered

The Kwara State government has announced the rescue of 38 persons abducted by bandits during an attack on the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke-Isegun, in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday.

Similarly, 51 out of the missing students of the Catholic School in Niger State, have been recovered.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the rescue.

“The Governor says this is wholly due to the hands-on approach of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, who has personally led the efforts to free the abductees”, he said.

Continuing, he said, “After many days of hard work by security forces and government representatives, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) is excited to announce the freedom of 38 persons who were recently abducted in an attack on Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Eruku, Ekiti LGA, Kwara Kwara.

“The abductees were freed today, November 23. The Governor is immensely grateful to President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his direct initiative that made this happen.

“The President had called off his scheduled trip for the G20 Meeting in South Africa to attend to the breaches in Kwara and Kebbi States. He had also directed heightened security deployments to Kwara, in what underlined his firm commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our people and Nigerians as a whole.”

The Governor also expressed appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser; the Department of State Services (DSS); the Nigerian Army; Nigeria Intelligence Agency; and, of course, the Nigeria Police, which has graciously deployed four new tactical teams to Kwara State on the directive of the President.

The Governor also thanked members of the security forces across board, thought leaders, religious institutions, and all Kwarans for their support and goodwill since the unfortunate incident.

Confirming their release in a post on his verified X handle, Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu wrote:

“My fellow Nigerians,

“You will recall that I cancelled my trip to the G20 summit in South Africa to enable me coordinate the security efforts at home.

“Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued.

“I am equally happy that 51 out of the missing students of the Catholic School in Niger State, have been recovered.

“I am closely monitoring the security situation nationwide and receiving continuous updates from the frontline.

“Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people.”

November 23, 2025