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Nigeria-US Joint Strikes Eliminate 21 ISWAP Fighters in Borno – Presidency

Published

2 months ago

June 10, 2026

Peter Obi Can't Defeat Tinubu in Lagos Again, Not a Threat — Sunday Dare

Sunday Dare Special Adviser to the President Media and Public Communication

Nigeria-US Joint Strikes Eliminate 21 ISWAP Fighters in Borno – Presidency

The Presidency has described the security partnership between Nigeria and the United States as a crucial step towards ending terrorism, banditry and other security threats across the country. The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, stated this on Tuesday during an X Space discussion. According to Dare, intelligence sharing, security cooperation and joint counter-terrorism efforts between Nigeria and the United States are essential in dismantling insurgent groups and criminal networks operating within the region. He said the Tinubu administration remains committed to restoring peace nationwide, protecting lives and property, and defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity against both internal and external threats. Dare noted that the expanding collaboration between the two countries demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing security challenges through coordinated operations, intelligence-led strategies and capacity-building initiatives. The growing security partnership has already yielded significant operational results. According to the Defence Headquarters, the collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has led to intelligence sharing, joint operations and capacity building aimed at defeating terrorism in the country. The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed during the same X Space discussion that the partnership has significantly enhanced intelligence sharing, capacity building, training, strategic communication, logistics support and operational effectiveness in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign.

Recent collaborative efforts have contributed to improved intelligence-driven operations leading to the disruption of terrorist networks. The Defence Headquarters reported “the neutralization of several high-value terrorist commanders and about 200 fighters, the destruction of terrorist enclaves and logistics infrastructure, as well as enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.” The partnership has also strengthened the operational readiness of Nigerian troops through specialized training programmes, intelligence fusion initiatives, joint planning engagements and professional military education. In a significant development, the strategic partnership has led to the elimination of a senior global ISIS leader operating from within Nigeria. AFRICOM’s Director of Public Affairs, Colonel Rebecca Heyse, disclosed that operations conducted jointly by Nigerian and US forces led to the elimination of ISIS global second-in-command, Abu Bilal al-Minuki, alongside several key operational and media leaders. She confirmed that more than 200 ISIS fighters were eliminated during these operations, while terrorist checkpoints, weapons caches, logistics hubs and training sites were destroyed.

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The nature of the security cooperation has evolved significantly. For years, US-Nigeria security cooperation focused primarily on capacity building, including training Nigerian troops, donating equipment, and sharing general intelligence. Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, that partnership has entered a more operational phase, with emphasis shifting to real-time intelligence fusion, precision strikes, and the targeting of high-value terrorist commanders. This shift was dramatically demonstrated in late May 2026 when a joint precision operation in Arege, Borno State, eliminated 21 ISWAP fighters in a strike coordinated by the Nigerian Air Force and US Africa Command. Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets had observed terrorists assembling in Arege for possible attacks, leading to an operation where data was fused with US AFRICOM satellite imagery and signals intelligence. All 21 targets were neutralised with no civilian casualties reported, demonstrating improved targeting, better coordination, and reduced collateral damage.

The strengthened security cooperation is underpinned by sustained high-level diplomatic engagements. In January 2026, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, hosted a high-level US delegation led by Allison Hooker for a strategic security parley. The meeting, attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to the US, Service Chiefs and Heads of the Intelligence Community, focused on enhancing the fight against insurgency, strengthening community protection mechanisms and consolidating intelligence cooperation between both nations. Both delegations agreed on the importance of sustaining and deepening bilateral ties, particularly through leveraging US support in key areas such as defence articles, capacity building and training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism financing measures, and mutual legal assistance. The US-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework, established following the partnership’s intensification, now serves as the primary mechanism for coordinating joint counter-terrorism operations.

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The United States has demonstrated its commitment through substantial logistical and material support. AFRICOM has announced the delivery of military supplies to Nigerian partners in Abuja, with the command stating that “this delivery supports Nigeria’s ongoing operations and emphasises our shared security partnership.” While specific details of the equipment transferred were not disclosed, the delivery comes against the backdrop of intensified Nigerian military operations targeting terrorist networks across multiple regions. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar has clarified the nature of the joint operations, stating that “it’s Nigeria that provided the intelligence” for recent strikes and confirming that President Tinubu “gave the go-ahead” for the operations. Tuggar emphasized that these are joint operations and “not targeting any religion nor simply in the name of one religion or the other.” He indicated that further strikes are expected, describing the cooperation as “an on-going thing.”

Responding to questions about the partnership’s impact on national sovereignty, AFRICOM’s Director of Public Affairs, Colonel Rebecca Heyse, stated that US cooperation with Nigeria is based on mutual interests and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. “Our operations and cooperation with Nigeria are rooted in fundamental respect for Nigerian sovereignty,” she said. “We operate strictly by invitation and under the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework.” According to her, the United States will continue to support Nigeria as long as both countries consider the partnership beneficial in addressing shared security threats. “As long as there are shared security threats and the framework continues to be of value to both countries, the United States remains committed to the partnership,” she added.

Major General Uba emphasized that Nigeria is pursuing a whole-of-society approach involving religious leaders, traditional institutions, civil society groups, government agencies and economic empowerment programmes to address the root causes of radicalisation. “Terrorism cannot be defeated by kinetic (military offensives) means alone,” he stated. “Non-kinetic measures such as community engagement, economic empowerment, strategic communication and the involvement of religious and traditional leaders are equally important.” This comprehensive strategy has yielded measurable results. Since 2023, over 104,000 former Boko Haram terrorists and dependents have surrendered under Operation Safe Corridor, with many citing sustained pressure and loss of commanders as reasons for laying down arms. Civilian deaths from insurgency in the Lake Chad region have fallen from 1,842 in 2022 to 623 in 2024, representing a 66 per cent drop.

The presidential aide also expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation and fake news on digital platforms, warning that such content could weaken national security and erode public trust. He cautioned that the circulation of unverified information could heighten social tensions, trigger unrest and create unnecessary panic among citizens. “The deliberate spread of false information can create unnecessary panic, provoke disorder and threaten national cohesion. Nigerians must remain vigilant and avoid becoming tools in the dissemination of content capable of destabilising the country,” he said. He urged citizens, media organisations and social media users to verify information before sharing it, stressing that responsible communication is essential for maintaining peace, unity and confidence in democratic institutions. Dare further emphasized that national security should not be viewed as the sole responsibility of government agencies, adding that the media, civil society groups and citizens all have critical roles to play in protecting the country.

The Nigeria-US security partnership has evolved from a training-focused relationship to a robust operational alliance delivering tangible results against terrorist networks. With high-level diplomatic backing, substantial US logistical support, and respect for Nigerian sovereignty maintained through the Joint Working Group framework, both nations appear committed to deepening cooperation as they confront evolving security challenges in West Africa and the wider Sahel region. The evidence is clear: intelligence sharing, joint operations and real-time coordination are saving lives and degrading terrorist capabilities. As the partnership continues to mature, security analysts remain optimistic about the prospects for restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.

Nigeria-US Joint Strikes Eliminate 21 ISWAP Fighters in Borno – Presidency

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Oyo Muslim Leaders Receive Saudi Delegation, Intensify Drive for Muslim College of Nursing

Published

2 days ago

August 1, 2026

Trends Admin

Oyo Muslim Leaders Receive Saudi Delegation, Intensify Drive for Muslim College of Nursing

OYO, August 1, 2026 – Muslim leaders in Oyo Kingdom on Saturday received a high-powered delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in a visit that underscored growing collaboration in education, healthcare and Islamic development, with renewed commitment towards the establishment of a Muslim College of Nursing in Oyo.

The delegation was accorded a warm reception at a gathering attended by prominent Islamic scholars and community leaders from Oyo Land.

Among the dignitaries present were the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Fadhilatu Shaykh Imam Bilaal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu; Ash-Shaykh Sulayman Akhyar, who served as the special guest; Ash-Shaykh Mainasaro, the Ameerul Muslimeen; the Aare Musulumi of Oyo Land, Alhaji Adebayo Kamarise; the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo Land; Khalifa Hasbunallah Al-Oyowiyy; and several other religious leaders and stakeholders.

The gathering focused on mobilising support for the proposed Muslim College of Nursing, an initiative aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare education while promoting excellence in professional training within the Muslim community.

In his welcome address, the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Shaykh Bilaal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, expressed appreciation to the Saudi delegation and other distinguished guests for identifying with the vision of establishing the institution. He described the proposed college as a strategic investment in human capital development that would benefit not only Muslims but the wider society.

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Also present at the event were the Muslim Ummah of Oyo Land and Fadhilatu Shaykh Dr. Rofeeu Adisa Ballo, who joined other leaders in reaffirming their commitment to ensuring the successful establishment and growth of the proposed college.

Speakers at the event stressed the importance of strengthening educational and healthcare institutions capable of producing highly skilled professionals while nurturing moral and ethical values rooted in Islamic teachings.

Special prayers were offered for the success of the proposed institution, with participants praying that Almighty Allah bless the sponsors, donors, scholars and all individuals contributing to the realisation of the project.

The visit also featured discussions on strengthening the longstanding relationship between the Muslim community in Oyo Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Participants emphasised the need for sustained cooperation in religious, educational and humanitarian programmes aimed at advancing the welfare of the Muslim Ummah.

In a symbolic gesture that drew commendation from attendees, the Grand Chief Imam granted approval for the head of the Saudi delegation to lead the Jumu’ah prayer at the Oyo Central Mosque, Akesan.

The honour, according to participants, reflected the spirit of Islamic brotherhood, mutual respect and unity among Muslims across national boundaries.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Imam reiterated that Islam encourages peace, dialogue and cooperation among believers, urging Muslim communities around the world to work together in promoting justice, harmony and understanding.

He said such partnerships remain essential to addressing contemporary challenges through education, religious enlightenment and community development.

Responding on behalf of the delegation, its leader expressed gratitude to the Chief Imam, traditional Muslim leadership and the people of Oyo for the warm reception accorded the visitors.

He described the opportunity to lead the Jumu’ah prayer as a great honour and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening religious cooperation and supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, education and mutual understanding among Muslims.

The delegation noted that collaborations centred on education and healthcare development would contribute significantly to the growth of Muslim communities and the overall advancement of society.

The event concluded with prayers for enduring peace, stability and prosperity in Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and the global Muslim Ummah.

Participants described the visit as a landmark engagement that not only reinforced the bonds of brotherhood between Oyo Muslims and their Saudi counterparts but also provided renewed momentum for the actualisation of the Muslim College of Nursing, which they said would serve generations of students and healthcare professionals.

Oyo Muslim Leaders Receive Saudi Delegation, Intensify Drive for Muslim College of Nursing

News

CJN orders lawyers to stop using ‘Barrister’ before their names

Published

2 days ago

July 31, 2026

Trends Admin

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun

CJN orders lawyers to stop using ‘Barrister’ before their names

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has directed lawyers, court officials and other personnel to stop using the title “Barrister” as a prefix to their names in official dealings connected with the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The directive was contained in a memorandum dated July 13, 2026, signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Kabir Akanbi, and addressed to litigation staff, legal practitioners, court registrars and lawyers.

According to the circular, the use of “Barrister” before a person’s name is considered inappropriate and inconsistent with the professional standards expected within Nigeria’s apex court.

The directive takes immediate effect and applies to official correspondence, court records, documents, identity materials and other formal engagements involving the Supreme Court.

The memorandum stated:

“I am directed by the Honourable the Chief Justice of Nigeria to notify all Litigation Staff, Legal Practitioners, Court Registrars, and Lawyers that the use of the title ‘Barrister’ as a prefix to names is inappropriate and inconsistent with the standards of professionalism expected within the Supreme Court of Nigeria.”

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The circular directed all affected persons to immediately stop using the title in official materials and communications.

It added:

“Consequently, all officers concerned are hereby directed to discontinue the use of the title ‘Barrister’ before their names in all official correspondence, records, documents, identity materials, and any other official engagements with immediate effect.”

To ensure compliance, heads of departments and unit heads were instructed to monitor officers under their supervision and ensure that the directive is fully implemented.

The memorandum stated:

“Heads of Departments and Unit Heads are requested to ensure strict compliance with this directive by all officers under their supervision. Please be guided accordingly.”

The directive is specifically focused on official dealings within the Supreme Court. Based on the wording of the memorandum, it does not amount to a nationwide ban on the use of “Barrister” by lawyers in private, social or non-Supreme Court settings.

The move is expected to generate discussion within Nigeria’s legal community, where the title “Barrister” is commonly used before the names of legal practitioners.

Supporters of the directive may view it as an effort to promote professional uniformity and align official communication with established legal and institutional standards.

The development also follows recent efforts by legal authorities to protect the integrity and professional standards of the legal profession.

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) recently warned aspiring lawyers against wearing wigs and gowns or presenting themselves as qualified legal practitioners before they are formally called to the Nigerian Bar.

The council maintained that legal regalia and professional representation are regulated and should be reserved for persons who have completed the required process and have been formally admitted to practise law.

The warning was aimed at preventing the misuse of legal titles and professional symbols and preserving the dignity of the legal profession.

The latest Supreme Court directive is expected to affect how lawyers and court personnel present their names in official documents and communications involving the apex court.

Affected individuals may now be required to use their names without the “Barrister” prefix in Supreme Court correspondence, records, identity materials and other official engagements.

CJN orders lawyers to stop using ‘Barrister’ before their names

News

FG to phase out electricity subsidy from 2027 as power sector debts rise

Published

2 days ago

July 31, 2026

Trends Admin

FG to phase out electricity subsidy from 2027 as power sector debts rise

The Federal Government has announced plans to gradually phase out electricity subsidies from 2027 as part of efforts to address rising debts in the power sector, improve financial sustainability and strengthen electricity supply across the country.

Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe disclosed the plan during a media interactive session on Friday, saying the government would introduce the changes gradually while ensuring that Nigerians continue to have access to electricity.

Tegbe said the Federal Government had received a mandate from President Bola Tinubu to clear outstanding debts in the electricity industry and establish a sustainable system that would prevent the accumulation of new obligations.

“We have the mandate of Mr President to clear the legacy debt and come up with sustainable structures to make sure this doesn’t pile up any more,” the minister said.

He expressed confidence that the government would bring an end to the current electricity subsidy arrangement in 2027 while working to improve the quality and reliability of power supply.

“I promise you, next year, by God’s grace, we will put a stop to this so-called subsidy in the power sector,” Tegbe said.

The minister assured consumers that the planned reforms would not result in a loss of access to electricity services.

According to him, the government’s objective is to reduce the financial burden created by the subsidy system while improving the performance of the electricity sector.

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“Mr President, we will not deprive Nigeria of anything. We’ll make sure Nigerian consumers continue to have power and improve power services,” he added.

Tegbe also stated that there was no immediate plan to increase electricity tariffs, despite concerns that the proposed phase-out of subsidies could lead to higher electricity bills.

However, the minister did not provide details on the timetable for the subsidy withdrawal, the categories of consumers that may be affected or the measures that would be introduced to protect low-income and vulnerable households.

The planned reform comes amid growing concerns over the financial challenges facing Nigeria’s electricity industry.

The Federal Government previously estimated the cost of electricity subsidies at about ₦3 trillion as of February 2024, while power generation companies, known as GenCos, have continued to report significant unpaid obligations.

The Association of Power Generation Companies has said electricity generation companies are owed about ₦6.5 trillion, raising concerns about the financial health of the sector and its ability to sustain electricity generation.

The outstanding debts include unpaid invoices and other obligations linked to electricity supplied to the national grid.

To address the problem, President Tinubu recently approved a ₦4 trillion power sector debt reduction programme aimed at settling verified legacy debts and improving liquidity across the electricity value chain.

The programme is expected to support the payment of outstanding obligations owed to power generation companies and other participants in the sector.

In January 2026, the Federal Government issued an inaugural ₦501 billion bond under the Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Programme.

The bond was designed to help settle verified debts owed to electricity generation companies and support efforts to stabilise the sector.

On July 20, the government announced a second tranche of about ₦729 billion to settle additional verified debts owed to power generation companies.

The debt-settlement programme is expected to reduce financial pressure on electricity producers and improve their capacity to maintain operations, pay gas suppliers and invest in power infrastructure.

The proposed subsidy phase-out also aligns with recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has encouraged Nigeria to gradually reduce broad electricity subsidies and adopt more targeted support for households that need assistance.

Supporters of the reform argue that reducing subsidies could improve the financial viability of the electricity market, attract private investment and help power companies maintain and expand infrastructure.

However, consumer groups and businesses have raised concerns that higher electricity costs could increase financial pressure on households and raise operating expenses for companies.

The impact of the proposed reform may depend on the government’s ability to improve electricity supply, expand access to prepaid meters, reduce estimated billing and ensure that consumers receive better services.

Earlier this year, President Tinubu also directed ministries, departments and agencies to apply existing electricity laws in determining how subsidy costs should be shared among the federal, state and local governments in the 2026 budget.

The move is expected to support a more coordinated approach to electricity financing following reforms that expanded the role of state governments in electricity generation, transmission and distribution.

As the 2027 target approaches, the Federal Government is expected to provide more details on the implementation framework, consumer protection measures and the steps that will be taken to prevent the reforms from causing undue hardship.

The government will also face growing pressure to ensure that improvements in electricity generation, transmission and distribution accompany the gradual withdrawal of subsidies.

For many consumers, the success of the policy may ultimately be measured by whether it delivers more reliable electricity, fair billing, improved customer service and better value for money.