Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: security

  • Nollywood Actor Arrested Over Alleged Involvement in Plot Against Government

    Nollywood Actor Arrested Over Alleged Involvement in Plot Against Government

    Premium Times reports that Nollywood filmmaker and actor Stanley Amandi was arrested over alleged involvement in a propaganda scheme linked to the foiled coup plot.

    Investigators reportedly allege he was recruited to help manage public messaging after a planned assassination of top government officials, as part of a wider sweep of civilian collaborators.

    Daily Post and Leadership also reported reactions, including calls for due process and concerns about the use of cultural influencers in political subversion.

    Echotitbits take: This is a rare instance where a creative-industry figure is publicly tied to a treason-related investigation. It underscores how governments increasingly treat narrative control as a national-security vector. Expect heightened scrutiny of politically themed productions, funding flows, and influencer networks.

    Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/nollywood-actor-stanley-amandi-arrested-for-alleged-role-in-coup-plot-against-tinubu/ 2026-01-30

    Photo Credit: BusinessDay

  • Security Operations: Military Dismisses Katsina Amnesty Rumors

    Security Operations: Military Dismisses Katsina Amnesty Rumors

    Security Operations: Military Dismisses Katsina Amnesty Rumors

    The Nigerian Military has denied claims of an amnesty deal involving the release of 70 suspected bandits in Katsina, saying releases occurred only after intelligence clearance and that kinetic operations remain ongoing.

    Additional coverage across Nigerian media and stakeholder reactions indicate that the implications of the development will be closely watched in the coming days as policy, security, and market signals evolve.

    Echotitbits take: The controversy reflects a communication gap between state-level narratives and federal military messaging. Public confidence will hinge on transparency around screening, releases, and operational outcomes.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/amnesty-international-report-lacks-depth-misleading-dhq/ (2026-01-22)

    Photo credit: The Punch

    2026-01-22 18:00:00

     

  • Security Crisis: Outcry Over Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna

    Security Crisis: Outcry Over Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna

    Security Crisis: Outcry Over Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna

    The Arewa Consultative Forum and ECWA have condemned the abduction of over 170 worshippers in Kurmin Wali, Kaduna, as political and community leaders criticize initial official denials that they say delayed rescue efforts.

    Additional coverage across Nigerian media and stakeholder reactions indicate that the implications of the development will be closely watched in the coming days as policy, security, and market signals evolve.

    Echotitbits take: The disconnect between official security reports and the reality on the ground in Kaduna is reaching a breaking point. Expect increased pressure on Governor Uba Sani to overhaul the state’s security intelligence network.

    Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/850908-police-finally-admit-mass-abduction-of-worshippers-in-kaduna.html (2026-01-22)

    Photo credit: Premium Times

    2026-01-22 12:00:00

     

     

  • Nigerian Army Secures Surrender of 80 Militants in Cross River

    Nigerian Army Secures Surrender of 80 Militants in Cross River

    The Nigerian Army has confirmed the voluntary surrender of 80 militants in Cross River State, under a state-backed amnesty program. The group reportedly emerged from two camps in Akpabuyo LGA and handed over assorted arms and ammunition.

    Media reports attribute the outcome to “Operation OKWOK,” combining kinetic and non-kinetic engagement, with surrendered individuals undergoing profiling and preparation for de-radicalization and reintegration.

    Echotitbits take: Amnesty can reduce violence when paired with credible reintegration pathways. The decisive variable will be post-surrender livelihoods—without economic off-ramps, recidivism risk remains high.

    Source: Vanguard – vanguardngr.com/2026/01/army-announces-surrender-of-80-militants-in-cross-river/ (January 17, 2026)

    Photo Credit: Vanguard

  • Nasarawa Police Nab Six, Rescue Three as Kidnap Crackdown Expands

    Nasarawa Police Nab Six, Rescue Three as Kidnap Crackdown Expands

    According to The Guardian, police in Nasarawa arrested six suspects and rescued three victims during an operation conducted with local vigilantes in the Lafia axis.

    The update reflects growing reliance on joint action between formal security forces and community structures, especially in difficult terrain.

    Authorities say deterrence is the goal, but long-term impact depends on prosecution, intelligence mapping, and disrupting ransom networks.

    The Punch also reported “arrest of six suspected kidnappers” and “rescue of three victims,” while TVC News similarly described officers “arresting six suspects and rescuing three abducted victims.”

    Echotitbits take: Watch court timelines and public case updates. Arrest headlines don’t reduce crime without convictions and network disruption.

    Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/police-nab-six-kidnappers-rescue-three-in-nasarawa/ January 10, 2026

    The Punch  2026-01-10

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Trump Warns of Persistent Military Action Over Persecution Concerns

    Trump Warns of Persistent Military Action Over Persecution Concerns

    Reporting by Daily Post indicates US President Donald Trump warned that further US military action could occur within Nigerian borders if violence against Christian communities persists, suggesting a shift from one-off operations to sustained action.

    The comments followed a controversial US strike on Christmas Day 2025, which US officials reportedly framed as targeting militants. Trump’s more recent remarks emphasized religious protection, raising diplomatic sensitivity around sovereignty and conflict drivers.

    Trump also acknowledged that Muslims are victims of violence but argued the scale of attacks justifies intervention. Nigerian officials have emphasized sovereignty in past statements, and observers expect diplomatic engagement over the framing and terms of any cooperation.

    BusinessDay (citing the New York Times) and The Guardian also reported concerns that religious framing could worsen tensions rather than reduce violence.

    Echotitbits take: Nigeria needs security cooperation, but rhetoric matters. A religiously framed intervention could inflame local dynamics and complicate alliances—watch for official diplomatic responses and clarifications.

    Source: Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/trump-says-there-could-be-more-us-strikes-nigeria-new-york-times-reports-2026-01-08/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: Reuters

  • Nigerian Air Force to Receive 12 New Attack Helicopters from US Firm

    Nigerian Air Force to Receive 12 New Attack Helicopters from US Firm

    In an update published by The Punch, the Federal Government and a US-based defense company reportedly finalized plans to deliver 12 advanced attack helicopters to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of efforts to strengthen airpower against insurgency and banditry.

    The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, reportedly said the first batch is expected by mid-2026. The helicopters are described as having modern night-vision and precision-strike capabilities suited for rugged terrain.

    The deal is said to include training for pilots and technicians and a maintenance center in Nigeria, which would support modernization and reduce reliance on foreign contractors for routine servicing.

    Channels TV and Vanguard also reported the development, including commentary about negotiations and planned basing in the North-West.

    Echotitbits take: Precision air support can shift the balance if integrated with ground intelligence and rapid response. The key will be coordination, maintenance discipline, and clear rules of engagement.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/insurgency-fg-us-company-plan-delivery-of-12-attack-helicopters/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Troops Neutralize Bandit Leader Linked to Plateau Miners Attack

    Troops Neutralize Bandit Leader Linked to Plateau Miners Attack

    According to Daily Post, Nigerian Army troops under “Operation Enduring Peace” killed a suspected bandit leader, Sadiq Isah, during a raid in Plateau State. Isah was reportedly linked to a December 16, 2025 attack on illegal miners in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

    The operation in the Yolan Gboka–Yama Da Lahdi axis followed intelligence-led tracking. Troops reportedly came under heavy fire but neutralized Isah, while other gang members escaped with gunshot wounds.

    After the encounter, the military reportedly recovered two AK-47 rifles and 162 rounds of ammunition. Security analyst Zagazola Makama also referenced the development and said follow-up operations were underway to track fleeing suspects.

    Leadership and Vanguard carried related reports, including reactions from locals and statements on continued operations.

    Echotitbits take: Neutralizing a key figure is a tactical win, but surviving cohorts can regroup. Expect intensified patrols and follow-up raids around Plateau’s mineral corridors.

    Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/09/plateau-troops-neutralise-bandit-linked-to-miners-attack-recover-arms/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: Daily Post

  • Interior Minister Decorates 133 Newly Promoted NSCDC Commandants

    Interior Minister Decorates 133 Newly Promoted NSCDC Commandants

    Reporting by The Nation indicates that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has decorated 133 newly promoted Commandants of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Represented by Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin (retd.), the Minister urged the officers to justify their ranks by strengthening intelligence gathering nationwide.

    The promotion is part of a strategy to reposition the NSCDC, especially following the reported transfer of some VIP protection duties from the Nigeria Police to the Corps. The Minister said today’s security challenges require merit-based leadership that can respond quickly to threats against critical infrastructure.

    NSCDC Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Audi reportedly warned officers against political lobbying for postings and stressed that career growth should come through service, hard work, and mentoring subordinates.

    Leadership Newspaper and Daily Post also reported on the ceremony and its timing as the Corps takes on expanded responsibilities.

    Echotitbits take: This looks like an effort to strengthen internal security architecture so the military can focus on frontline combat, while the NSCDC deepens domestic intelligence and infrastructure protection.

    Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/133-nscdc-commandants-decorated-with-new-ranks/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: The Nation

  • UN Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Protection for Students and Schools Amid Insecurity

    UN Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Protection for Students and Schools Amid Insecurity

    As documented by The Punch, the United Nations has called on Nigeria to step up measures to protect students and educational institutions from persistent security threats.

    The UN stressed that schools must remain safe zones and urged stronger implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, including physical protection and surveillance where needed.

    The advisory comes amid continuing attacks and displacement in parts of the country, with calls for quicker de-escalation and better protection for civilians.

    **Echotitbits take:** The security of schools is foundational—loss of education today fuels instability tomorrow. Watch for any concrete rollout of dedicated campus or school protection units and measurable funding for the Safe Schools Initiative.
    Source: The Punch — https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/terrorism-un-urges-nigeria-to-protect-civilians-schools/ 2026-01-08

    Photo Credit: The Punch