In an update published by Vanguard, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has vowed to take decisive action against the remnants of terrorist groups and insurgents operating within the country. Speaking at the West African Social Activities (WASA) event in Abuja, the COAS stated that the Nigerian Army is entering a new phase of high-intensity operations designed to permanently secure troubled regions.
The Army Chief emphasized that troop welfare remains a top priority, as motivated soldiers are essential for the success of “Operation Desert Sanity V” and other ongoing missions. He noted that the military has seen significant gains in the North-East and North-West, with scores of terrorists recently neutralized and large caches of weapons recovered.
Despite these successes, the COAS urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies. He reiterated that the military’s goal is to create a peaceful environment conducive to economic development and social stability.
The Punch confirmed these reports, adding that recent operations in the North-East led to the recovery of sophisticated anti-aircraft guns. Daily Post reported on the killing of several Boko Haram commanders, quoting a military spokesperson: “We are squeezing the operational space of the terrorists until they have nowhere left to hide.” Leadership also highlighted the COAS’s remarks, with a security analyst stating, “The focus on troop welfare is a critical shift that will likely improve battlefield performance in the coming months.”
Echotitbits take: The rhetoric from the COAS is strong, but the persistence of abductions in the Middle Belt remains a thorn in the side of the military. Watch for a possible shift toward more aerial-led operations Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/nigerias-army-chief-vows-crush-insurgents-amid-us-pressure-over-religious-2025-11-07/, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Reuters
Tag: nigeria
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Army Chief Pledges Final Blow to Insurgency Amid Renewed Offensive
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Nigeria Expands Food Security Drive with Largest Global Biofortified Crop Portfolio
Reporting by Premium Times indicates that the Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to nutrition security by aggressively expanding the cultivation of biofortified crops. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Marcus Ogunbiyi, revealed that Nigeria now holds the largest portfolio of these crops globally. This strategy aims to combat “hidden hunger” by providing essential vitamins and minerals through staple foods like cassava, maize, and sweet potatoes.
The announcement was made during a national workshop in Kano, where officials highlighted the role of biofortification in reducing malnutrition-related illnesses. By integrating these crops into the national food system, the government hopes to improve the health of millions of Nigerians, particularly children and pregnant women in rural areas.
Stakeholders at the event emphasized the need for better seed distribution networks to ensure that smallholder farmers can access these improved varieties. The government is partnering with international agricultural organizations to provide technical support and scale up production across the six geopolitical zones.
Vanguard verified the initiative, reporting that the government is also linking biofortified crop production to the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme. A nutrition specialist quoted in The Guardian said, “Biofortification is a cost-effective way to deliver micronutrients to the most vulnerable populations.” Daily Trust also covered the workshop, quoting a farmer who stated, “These new varieties are not just healthy; they are yielding better than our traditional seeds.”
Echotitbits take: This is a major win for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Beyond health, this move positions Nigeria as a leader in African agritech. The next challenge will be ensuring these crops reach the market at competitive prices to displace less nutritious alternatives.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/agriculture/agric-news/856749-nigerian-govt-commits-to-adoption-of-biofortified-crops.html, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times -
Nigeria Endorses Comprehensive African Union Peace and Security Reforms
According to reporting by Premium Times, the Federal Government of Nigeria has formally backed a series of institutional reforms within the African Union (AU) aimed at strengthening governance in the areas of peace and security. Vice President Kashim Shettima articulated the nation’s stance during a high-level closed session at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa. The endorsement reflects Nigeria’s strategic interest in ensuring the AU is better equipped to handle the continent’s evolving security challenges.
The move comes at a time when the continent is grappling with various insurgencies and constitutional crises. Nigeria’s leadership at the summit emphasized that a more streamlined AU governance structure is essential for swift conflict resolution and the maintenance of regional stability. By supporting these reforms, Nigeria seeks to bolster the AU’s mandate to intervene more effectively in troubled regions across Africa.
Further details indicate that the reforms are expected to reorganize the AU Commission to ensure better accountability and resource allocation. This shift is seen as a pivotal step in moving the continental body from a reactive stance to a more proactive role in peacekeeping operations.
The Punch Newspapers confirmed the development, noting that Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye has officially taken over as the 2026 AU Chairman. Additionally, The Nation reported on the summit’s proceedings, quoting a senior diplomat who stated, “Nigeria’s backing provides the necessary political weight to move these security structural changes from paper to practice.” Meanwhile, a source in The Guardian highlighted the regional consensus, quoting an AU official: “The commitment shown by member states like Nigeria is a clear signal that Africa is ready to take full ownership of its security architecture.”
Echotitbits take: Nigeria’s endorsement is a calculated diplomatic move to maintain its influence as a continental powerhouse. As regional threats like the Sahelian crisis persist, these AU reforms are critical. Watch for how these structural changes affect the funding of the African Standby Force in the coming months.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/856758-nigeria-backs-aus-institutional-reforms-on-peace-security.html, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times -
International Tensions Rise as China Rejects Mining-Linked Terror Funding Claims
According to Premium Times, the Chinese government has officially rejected allegations made by US lawmakers regarding illegal mining and terrorism financing in Nigeria. The rebuttal comes after a report suggested that some Chinese-owned mining operations in Northern Nigeria were providing financial support to insurgent groups to secure access to mineral-rich lands.
In an update published by the same outlet, the Chinese embassy in Abuja described the claims as “baseless” and “politically motivated.” They maintained that Chinese companies operate within the legal framework of Nigerian law and contribute significantly to the country’s industrial growth and infrastructure development.
The dispute has placed the Nigerian government in a delicate diplomatic position, as both the US and China are key economic and security partners. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has vowed to intensify its crackdown on all forms of illegal mining, regardless of the nationality of the firms involved, to protect national security.
The Nation and Daily Post reported on the brewing diplomatic row. The Nation quoted a diplomatic source saying, “Nigeria must verify these claims independently to avoid being a pawn in global power play,” while Daily Post noted that “security agencies have already arrested several foreign nationals in connection with illicit mining.”
Echotitbits take: The “resource curse” is taking a new dimension in Nigeria with these international allegations. If proven, the link between mining and terror could lead to heavy sanctions. Nigeria needs to urgently formalize its artisanal mining sector to prevent it from becoming a slush fund for insurgents.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/china-denies-us-claims-of-illegal-mining-terror-funding-in-nigeria/, February 13, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
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Ghana Recalls High Commissioner Over Alleged Electoral Misconduct
Reporting by Premium Times indicates that the Ghanaian Presidency has officially recalled Baba Ahmed, the country’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, with immediate effect. The decision, sanctioned by President John Mahama, follows allegations linking the diplomat to malpractices during Ghana’s parliamentary election primaries for the Ayawaso East Constituency.
The Ghanaian government clarified that Mr. Ahmed, who was an aspirant in the primaries, was recalled to answer for his alleged role in compromising the electoral process while serving as a high-ranking public officer. This move is seen as a stern signal from Accra regarding the conduct of its diplomatic staff during domestic political transitions.
The recall has sparked discussions within the West African diplomatic community about the boundaries of political participation for serving ambassadors. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to be formally notified as the Ghanaian mission in Abuja transitions to interim leadership.
The story was also monitored by Channels TV and The Punch, which reported that “the recall is a rare but necessary step to maintain the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.” The Sun Nigeria further quoted a source in Accra saying, “The Presidency will not tolerate any public officer using their position to influence internal party processes.”
Echotitbits take: This recall highlights Ghana’s aggressive stance on electoral integrity, even at the cost of diplomatic continuity. It may temporarily slow down bilateral engagements between Abuja and Accra as a new envoy is vetted.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/ghana-recalls-high-commissioner-to-nigeria-over-alleged-link-to-election-rigging/, February 8, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
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Timini Egbuson Bids Final Farewell as Father is Laid to Rest
According to Legit NG, Nollywood leading man Timini Egbuson was joined by a host of industry colleagues and friends as he performed the final burial rites for his father today. The actor, who has been relatively quiet on social media since the passing of the Egbuson patriarch, shared glimpses of the somber ceremony, which was marked by both mourning and a celebration of life.
The event saw a significant turnout from the Nigerian film community, reflecting the high regard in which Timini and his sister, veteran actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande, are held. Guests described the atmosphere as emotional but dignified, as the family honored the man who raised two of the country’s most prominent screen stars.
Timini’s final goodbye message to his “papa” has resonated deeply with his fanbase, many of whom have flooded his comment sections with prayers and condolences. The actor had previously spoken about his father’s influence on his career, often crediting his family’s support for his rise to becoming one of Nollywood’s most bankable leading men.
Following the burial, the family is expected to hold a private reception. This moment of personal loss comes during a busy year for Timini, who has several major box-office projects currently in production.
* The Nation reported on the funeral proceedings: “Friends and well-wishers gathered to support the Egbuson family as they laid their patriarch to rest in an emotional ceremony.”
* BellaNaija shared tributes from the event, noting: “Colleagues in the movie industry have continued to send messages of strength to Timini and Dakore during this difficult time.”
Echotitbits take: The Egbuson family is Nollywood royalty, and the outpouring of support shows the tight-knit nature of the industry’s “A-list” circle. For Timini, who is often seen as the life of the party, this public display of vulnerability and grief humanizes his brand. Expect a short hiatus from the screen as he takes time to grieve before returning to his heavy filming schedule.
Source: KemiFilani — https://www.kemifilani.ng/entertainment/dakore-akande-and-timini-lay-father-to-rest February 6, 2026
Photo Credit: KemiFilani
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Clarivo Refinery Set to Drastically Cut Nigeria’s Fuel Imports
Reporting by Vanguard indicates that the management of Clarivo Refinery has announced a strategic roadmap to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products by the year 2035. The refinery, which is part of a new wave of private energy investments, aims to scale its production capacity to meet both domestic demand and export requirements. This announcement comes as the federal government continues to encourage private modular and large-scale refineries to stabilize the energy sector.
The management emphasized that the refinery will focus on high-efficiency output and local value addition, ensuring that crude oil produced in Nigeria is refined within the country. This move is expected to save the nation billions in foreign exchange and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the downstream sector. The project is seen as a major win for the “Renewed Hope” economic agenda which prioritizes domestic energy security.
The development was also validated by The Nation and Leadership. The Nation mentioned that “Clarivo is seeking further partnerships for its petrochemical wing,” while Leadership noted that “the refinery’s first phase is already 60% complete.”
Echotitbits take:
With the Dangote Refinery already operational, the addition of Clarivo suggests Nigeria is finally moving toward becoming a net exporter of refined products. Watch for the competition between these private giants to potentially drive down local pump prices through increased supply.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/clarivo-oil-plans-world-class-refinery-in-nigeria-ceo-obidike/, January 31, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
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Supreme Court Warns Judiciary Against Political Interference
In an update published by Daily Post, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has echoed a growing concern that Nigerian courts are “gradually becoming politicians” due to their frequent involvement in internal party disputes. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, called on the judiciary to maintain its independence and stay away from partisan matters to preserve public faith in the legal process. This comes as several high-profile political cases continue to saturate the Federal High Courts.
The PDP also pointed to a “perception problem” where judicial officers are seen soliciting favors from government officials, which they claim compromises the appearance of neutrality. Legal experts have warned that if the judiciary does not self-regulate, the outcome of the 2027 elections could be decided in courtrooms rather than at the ballot box. This tension has led to calls for a reform that limits the types of political cases that can be brought before the bench.
The issue was also covered by The Guardian and ThisDay. The Guardian reported that “the Chief Justice is facing pressure to issue new guidelines on political litigation,” while ThisDay noted that “civil society groups are planning a march for judicial independence.”
Echotitbits take:
The “judicialization of politics” is at an all-time high. When the court becomes the final arbiter of who leads a party, it loses its “impartial priest” status. Watch for a possible constitutional amendment aimed at limiting the court’s jurisdiction over internal party congresses.
Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/politics/adebayo-hails-supreme-court-victory-warns-inec-against-interference-in-sdp-affairs/, January 31, 2026
Photo credit: The Guardian
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Creative Sector Identified as Primary Driver for 2026 GDP Growth
Figures cited by Leadership from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, indicate that the creative sector is being prioritized as a primary engine for Nigeria’s economic growth in 2026. Following a strategic meeting with the leadership of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), the government pledged to create a more enabling environment for filmmakers, musicians, and digital creators. The sector is expected to play a critical role in the government’s plan to bring 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity.
The Minister emphasized that the “orange economy” has the potential to generate massive foreign exchange and create jobs for the youth at a faster rate than traditional manufacturing. Plans are underway to provide better copyright protection and access to low-interest loans for creative projects. This shift reflects a broader policy move to diversify the economy away from oil and leverage Nigeria’s cultural influence globally.
The story was also reported by The Punch and ThisDay. The Punch noted that “TAMPAN has requested for a dedicated creative industry bank,” while ThisDay highlighted that “creative exports could account for 5% of Nigeria’s GDP by 2027.”
Echotitbits take:
The government is finally putting its money where its mouth is regarding Nollywood and the music industry. By involving the Ministry of Interior, they are also likely looking at “visa facilitation” for international crews coming to film in Nigeria. Watch for the rollout of the “Creative Industry Fund” in the Q2 budget.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/creative-sector-key-to-growth-tunji-ojo/ , January 31, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
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Nigeria and Türkiye Partner to Commercialize Scientific Research
According to The Punch, high-level discussions between Nigeria and Türkiye have culminated in a new agreement focused on the commercialization of scientific research. The partnership aims to turn laboratory discoveries into viable commercial products, specifically targeting sectors like agriculture, defense, and manufacturing. The initiative is expected to boost Nigeria’s industrial growth by adopting Turkish technological frameworks and manufacturing processes to scale local innovations.
The agreement includes exchange programs for researchers and the establishment of “innovation hubs” in major Nigerian cities. Officials from both countries noted that the goal is to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported finished goods while creating a robust pipeline for “Made in Nigeria” products destined for the international market. This bilateral cooperation is seen as a key component of the federal government’s 2026 economic expansion agenda.
This development was also highlighted by Leadership and Tribune. Leadership reported that “the partnership will prioritize tech transfer in the defense sector,” while Tribune mentioned that “funding for the first phase of the hubs has already been secured.”
Echotitbits take:
Türkiye has become a strategic middle-power partner for Nigeria, especially in tech and defense. This move toward “commercializing research” suggests Nigeria is moving away from purely academic science toward an industrial-military complex model. Watch for the first “Nigeria-Türkiye” joint venture products in the agricultural machinery space.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/nigeria-advances-research-commercialisation-talks-with-turkiye/, January 31, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch