Speaking during an official visit to the 2026 Batch B Stream I Orientation Camp in Wannune, Benue State, on Thursday, Nafiu said the NYSC scheme was established to foster national unity by exposing young Nigerians to the country’s diverse cultures and traditions.

He encouraged corps members to build meaningful friendships and professional networks throughout their service year, describing interaction and integration as key objectives of the programme.

The NYSC boss reminded participants that the service year marks an important transition from academic life to the workplace and urged them to maximise every opportunity available during the period.

He specifically encouraged them to participate actively in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, noting that the initiative equips corps members with practical skills capable of creating employment and additional sources of income.

On financial responsibility, Nafiu advised corps members to cultivate a savings culture, spend wisely and invest any extra income earned during the service year rather than depending on a single source of livelihood.

He also urged them to discharge their duties diligently at their various Places of Primary Assignment, particularly those posted to schools, stressing that education remains vital to national development and that teachers play a significant role in shaping future generations.

The Director-General further cautioned corps members against unauthorised travel and night journeys, urging them to remain security-conscious and comply with NYSC regulations. He also advised them to use social media responsibly and maintain positive digital footprints.

Nafiu encouraged eligible corps members to take advantage of opportunities provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to contribute to Nigeria’s democratic process.

Earlier, the Benue State Coordinator of the scheme, Mrs Veronica Garba, welcomed the Director-General and presented a report on activities at the orientation camp. She commended corps members for their discipline, resilience and active participation in camp activities.

During an interactive session, corps members raised concerns about welfare, allowances, camp feeding, transportation and kits. Nafiu assured them that their concerns had been forwarded to the appropriate authorities and expressed optimism that improvements would be made as resources become available.

The visit also featured the recognition of the first corps member to report to camp, Miss Unung Felicia Udosinachi, as well as the celebration of a corps member’s birthday. Cash gifts on behalf of the Director-General were presented to representatives of the Quarter Guard, Man O’ War, Camp Band, Cultural Dance Troupe and Red Cross in appreciation of their dedication throughout the orientation course.

The Director-General was welcomed to the camp with a colourful Tiv cultural dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Benue State.

Obi made the remarks in a post shared on his X account on Monday, where he commended the efforts of the Federal Government and Ethiopian authorities in facilitating the transfer of Nigerian inmates serving prison terms in the East African country.

He specifically praised the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, as well as Ethiopian officials for their roles in concluding the arrangement.

According to Obi, the agreement reflects the responsibility of governments to safeguard the welfare and dignity of their citizens regardless of where they reside.

While applauding the development, the former Anambra State governor expressed sadness over reports that at least four Nigerians died in custody before the transfer process was completed.

He said the reported deaths highlight the human cost of prolonged diplomatic and administrative procedures, as well as the pain experienced by families who lost loved ones far from home.

Obi urged Nigerians to look beyond the prisoner transfer itself and reflect on the circumstances that pushed many of the affected individuals to leave the country in search of better opportunities.

He noted that many of those involved were young Nigerians who travelled abroad hoping to improve their lives, stressing that the situation should prompt deeper conversations about the country’s economic realities.

While emphasising the need for Nigerians abroad to obey the laws of their host countries, Obi questioned the conditions that continue to drive many young people to seek opportunities outside the country under difficult circumstances.

“While we commend this humanitarian intervention, it serves as a reminder of a larger systemic crisis. The overwhelming majority of these citizens are young Nigerians,” he said.

Obi argued that creating jobs, expanding access to quality education and building a system that rewards hard work are essential steps toward addressing the root causes of migration and reducing the risks associated with it.

He also called for proper rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for the returning inmates as they continue serving their sentences in Nigeria.

According to him, the prisoner transfer should not only be viewed as a humanitarian intervention but also as a reminder of the need to build a nation that values, protects and empowers its citizens.

The Federal Government recently announced the implementation of a prisoner transfer agreement with Ethiopia that will see more than 100 Nigerians serving jail terms in the country transferred to Nigeria.

Oguntunde gave the advice during a town-and-gown engagement with secondary school administrators, where he highlighted the growing social and emotional impact of exposing young students to foreign environments too soon.

According to him, many parents, in their quest for better opportunities, overlook the long-term effects of early overseas education, which may include loss of cultural identity, weakened family ties, and a disconnect from core values.

He stressed the need for students to attain a level of maturity before studying abroad, urging parents to allow their children to complete their first degree in Nigeria.

“Allow your children and wards to acquire their first degree in Nigeria; otherwise, you may have unwittingly donated them to the devil,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that his stance is based on personal conviction, revealing that he declined two opportunities to send his own children abroad for early education, insisting they complete their undergraduate studies in Nigeria — a decision he said yielded positive outcomes.

He added that several parents who sent their children abroad at a young age are now grappling with challenges, as the children often adopt lifestyles and attitudes that create tension within their families.

Oguntunde also drew attention to the broader national impact, stating that early migration for education contributes to the loss of Nigeria’s human capital, while maintaining that local universities are capable of providing solid academic foundations.

In his remarks, the Registrar of the university, Mr Omololu Adegbenro, assured stakeholders that all programmes offered by the institution are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission.

He specifically highlighted the Nursing programme, noting that it equips graduates with multiple academic and professional certifications, enhancing their competitiveness both locally and internationally.

Also speaking, the Bursar, Mr Olusegun Ajeigbe, disclosed that the university operates a flexible fee structure alongside welfare support systems to assist students facing financial difficulties.

The University Librarian, Dr Ayooluwa Aregbesola, stated that the institution runs a modern, technology-driven library system that ensures seamless access to academic resources for both students and faculty.

Responding, participating secondary school administrators commended the initiative, describing the engagement as timely and impactful.

They noted that such interactions help bridge the gap between secondary and tertiary education, while guiding parents and students toward making informed academic decisions.

They also called for sustained collaboration, stressing that stronger ties between schools and universities would boost confidence in Nigeria’s higher education system.

Speaking during the public auction in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the Customs Area Controller, Muhammad Ibrahim, said the operation was conducted under the special enforcement unit, Operation Whirlwind.

According to him, the unit is tasked with monitoring and suppressing cross-border smuggling of petroleum products.

“It is with great pleasure that we witness this important milestone in our command. Operation Whirlwind remains a strategic unit saddled with the responsibility of monitoring and suppressing the smuggling of PMS across Nigerian borders,” Ibrahim stated.

He added that the initiative is designed to safeguard national resources and strengthen the economy, noting that recent seizures reflect improved inter-agency collaboration.

The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Aliyu Abubakar, disclosed that 864 jerrycans of PMS, amounting to about 21,500 litres, were intercepted at various smuggling flashpoints across Kebbi State, including Bagudo, Kamba, and Jega Road.

He revealed that the estimated duty-paid value of the seized fuel exceeds N21.2 million.

Abubakar further disclosed that a tanker carrying about 45,000 litres of petrol was intercepted along the Jega axis. He explained that the product, originally destined for Katsina State, was illegally diverted.

“Its presence along the Jega Road clearly indicates a case of illegal diversion of petroleum products, an act that undermines national economic stability and regulatory frameworks,” he said.

He added that the tanker has been handed over to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority for further investigation and regulatory action.

Abubakar emphasised that the public auction demonstrates the Service’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

“Transparency remains a key pillar of our operations. This exercise demonstrates due process and responsible management of seized items,” he added.

Also speaking, Grace Dauda warned against diversion of petroleum products, noting that such practices disrupt supply distribution and national planning.

“When a product is manifested for a destination like Katsina but diverted elsewhere, it deprives that area of essential supply. These volumes are critical for powering hospitals, security operations, and economic activities,” she said.

She added that such infractions could attract financial penalties and legal action, urging Nigerians to report suspicious movements of petroleum products.

The development comes amid ongoing concerns over fuel smuggling in Nigeria’s border communities, particularly in the North-West, where porous borders and price disparities continue to fuel illegal trade.

Authorities say initiatives like Operation Whirlwind, supported by intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation, remain crucial to protecting Nigeria’s fuel supply chain and ensuring economic stability.

PUNCH

DCP Placid, psc (+), mni, is a seasoned officer of the Nigeria Police Force with extensive experience in administration, operations, intelligence, training, and international peacekeeping.

Born on 2 December 1970 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, he hails from Mbiokporo Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo, a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (M.A.L.D) from the University of Jos and studied Law at the National Open University of Nigeria for a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B)

He was appointed into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police at the Police Academy, Kano, in 1996, and was commissioned in August 1998.

He has attended several professional and international courses, including United Nations Peace Operations Specialised Training (POST), with certifications as an expert in Police Studies, Military Studies, Gender Awareness, International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights, and Civilian Protection. UNITAR Senior Leadership and Peacebuilding course in Kenya.

DCP Placid has served in various strategic capacities within and outside the country, including Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adamawa State; PPRO, Police Staff College, Jos; Chief of Training, African Union Mission in Sudan; Head of Training and Development, United Nations Mission in Darfur; Divisional Police Officer in Federal Housing Calabar, Bakassi, Uruan, and Gembu; Officer-in-Charge, Anti-Robbery Unit, Kaduna State; African Union Election Security Adviser; Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) in Akwa Ibom and Kogi States; Assistant Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Department, Abia State; and Deputy in charge of Administration and Finance, Zone 3 Headquarters, Yola.

DCP Anthony Placid is also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Commonwealth Human Rights Trainer and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Trainer on International Humanitarian Law. He is a graduate of the Senior Executive Course (SEC 47) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and was inducted as a Member of the National Institute (mni) on 13 December 2025, prior to his redeployment to Cross River State.

He is happily married with children. His hobbies include listening to good music, playing football, basketball, table tennis, badminton, and engaging with people.

DCP Placid can be reached on 07031179186.

Ag. ACP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Outgoing Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
8th March, 2026

The sanctions was detailed in a 3,000-page document released on February 10 by the United States Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
According to the documents, more than 20 Nigerians and organisations were listed under various sanctions programmes, including terrorism- related and cybercrime regulations.

The sanction means all property and interests of these individuals and entities within US jurisdiction are blocked under Executive Order 13224, and US persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with them.

Nigerians Currently Sanctioned by the US
Khalid al‑Barnawi


Also known as: AL-BARNAWI, Khaled; BARNAWI, Khalid; EL-BARNAOUI, Khaled; HAFSAT, Abu; USMAN, Mohammed
Date of birth: 1976
Place of birth: Maiduguri, Nigeria
Offence/Program: Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) — linked to Boko Haram/terrorism
Abubakar Shekau


Also known as: BIN MOHAMMED, Abu Mohammed Abubakar; BI MUHAMMED, Abu Muhammed Abubakar; SHEHU; SHAYKU; SHEKAU
Date of birth: 1969
Place of birth: Shekau Village, Yobe State, Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT — leader associated with Boko Haram
Abu Musab al‑Barnawi

Also known as: YUSUF, Habib
Date of birth: 1991 (multiple alternate DOBs listed by OFAC)
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT — Boko Haram affiliate/leader
Abu Bakr al‑Mainuki


Also known as: AL-MINUKI, Abu-Bilal; MAINOK, Abor; MAINOK, Abubakar
Date of birth: 1982
Place of birth: Mainok, Benisheikh, Borno State, Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to ISIL
Salihu Yusuf Adamu


Also known as: ADAMU, Salih Yusuf
Date of birth: 23 Aug 1990
Place of birth: Nigeria; current location: Abu Dhabi
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram

Surajo Abubakar Muhammad


Also known as: MUHAMMAD, Surajo Abu Bakr
Date of birth: 3 Jul 1979
Place of birth: Nigeria; current location: Abu Dhabi
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to ISIL

Salihu Yusuf Adamu


Also known as: ADAMU, Salih Yusuf
Date of birth: 23 Aug 1990
Place of birth: Nigeria; current location: Abu Dhabi
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram
Surajo Abubakar Muhammad


Also known as: MUHAMMAD, Surajo Abu Bakr
Date of birth: 3 Jul 1979
Place of birth: Nigeria; current location: Abu Dhabi
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram

Abdurrahman Ado Musa


Also known as: MUSA, Abdurrahman Ado
Date of birth: 23 Apr 1984
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram
Bashir Ali Yusuf
Date of birth: 7 Aug 1984
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram

Ibrahim Ali Alhassan
Date of birth: 31 Jan 1981
Place of birth: Nigeria; current location: Abu Dhabi
Offence/Program: SDGT — linked to Boko Haram

Nnamdi Orson Benson


Date of birth: 21 Mar 1987
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Abiola Ayorinde Kayode

Date of birth: 14 Nov 1987
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Alex Afolabi Ogunshakin


Date of birth: 23 Feb 1983
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Felix Osilama Okpoh


Date of birth: 9 Mar 1989
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Micheal Olorunyomi


Date of birth: 12 May 1983
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Richard Izuchukwu Uzuh


Date of birth: 29 Apr 1986
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: OFAC cyber designation (CYBER2)
Ali Abbas Usman Jega


Also known as: JEGA, Ali Abbas Usman; HASSAN, Ali Abbas Othman; JEGA, Abbas
Date of birth: 1965
Address: Abuja, Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDGT
Abeni O. Ogungbuyi


Also known as: BABESTAN, Abeni O.; SHOFESO, Olatutu Temitope
Date of birth: 30 Jun 1952
Place of birth: Nigeria
Offence/Program: SDNTK
Organisations Currently Sanctioned by the US (Nigeria-Based)
Boko Haram


Also known as: JAMA’ATU AHLIS-SUNNAH LIDDA’AWATI WAL-JIHAD; Nigerian Taliban
Offence/Program: Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and SDGT — terrorism
Ansaru
Also known as: ANSARUL MUSLIMINA FI BILADIS SUDAN; Vanguards for the Protection of Muslims in Black Africa
Offence/Program: FTO and SDGT — terrorism

Amigo Supermarket Limited, Kafak Enterprises Limited, Wonderland Amusement Park and Resort LtdProgram: SDGT — linked to individuals designated by OFAC

Organisations with alleged Nigerian affiliations:

Aurum Ship Management FZC
Program: SDGT — linked to designated individuals

ISIS-West Africa (ISIS-WA)
Program: FTO and SDGT — terrorism

Jammal Trust Bank S.A.L.
Program: SDGT — linked to Hizballah

According to OFAC, the list serves as a reference tool, providing notice of actions taken against Specially Designated Nationals, whose property and interests are blocked as part of its counter-terrorism efforts.
“This publication of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, OFAC, is designed as a reference tool providing actual notice of actions by OFAC with respect to Specially Designated Nationals and other persons (which term includes both individuals and entities) whose property is blocked, to assist the public in complying with the various sanctions programmes administered by OFAC,” the agency said.
The inclusion of these names in the OFAC list underscores Washington’s continued focus on countering terrorism financing and cyber threats.
The pronouncement comes on the heels of recent recommendations by the US Congress for visa bans and asset freezes on persons and groups accused of violations of religious freedom and persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso; the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria; and Miyetti Allah Kautal were recommended by United States lawmakers for visa bans and asset freezes.
In October 2025, for the second time, US President Donald Trump announced that Nigeria would be added to the Department of State’s “Countries of Particular Concern” list for religious freedom, alleging persecution of Christians by Muslims. Nigeria was first designated in 2020 under Trump but was removed by President Joe Biden shortly after assuming office.

Source: Punch

The president emphasized that sustainable road management must be driven by accurate and dependable data, noting that the government can no longer depend on reactive maintenance strategies.

He made the directive known through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Roads Summit organised by the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in Abuja.

He directed FERMA to step up routine road condition checks, safety audits, and post-failure evaluations across the federal road network, stressing the urgent need for a detailed inventory of failed and failing roads nationwide.

According to the president, the proposed geo-referenced database should comprehensively capture the causes of road deterioration, including design deficiencies, construction quality issues, axle overloading, drainage problems, climate-related impacts, and maintenance shortcomings.

“With accurate and up-to-date data, Nigeria can move decisively from emergency repairs to predictive and preventive maintenance planning,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, lamented the misuse of Nigerian roads, citing overloading, reckless driving, and unauthorised usage as major contributors to road damage.

FERMA’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Dr. Emeka Agbasi, described roads as critical to national economic growth, noting that they support the movement of agricultural produce to markets, industrial goods to ports, and access to education and healthcare services.

However, he warned that ageing infrastructure, maintenance backlogs, climate-induced damage, limited funding, and road safety challenges continue to impose heavy economic costs, including increased vehicle operating expenses, longer travel times, reduced competitiveness, and heightened risks to human lives.

Saleh Abubakar, a son of the Imam, confirmed his death to Daily Trust on Friday, saying his father died Thursday night at Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos.

Former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also confirmed the death in a post on X on Friday, describing the late imam as a man who exemplified Islamic teachings on the sanctity of human life and selfless service to humanity.

According to the deceased’s son, his father “died ten days after he was admitted. He was initially diagnosed with a heart problem. He’d go for check-ups and return. His health hadn’t been stable since the heart disease diagnosis.”

Imam Abubakar was 90 years old at the time of his death. He is survived by 19 children ; 12 boys and 7 girls.

Imam Abubakar Abdullahi had in June 2018 amidst deadly faith based communal clashes that engulfed 10 villages in Barkin Ladi, hid 262 Christians in a mosque and in his house until the conflict was over, and thus saved them from annihilation.

He had received several awards for his bravery, including the International Religious Freedom Award from the US Department of State in 2019.

Late Abubakar was buried on the January 16 after Jumma’at Prayer in Nghar village.

The president made the call in his New Year message to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, reflecting on the challenges of the past year and calling for unity, integrity, and shared responsibility. The statement was issued through his Media Assistant, Wealth Dickson Ominabo.

“As we enter 2026, we give thanks to God for the gift of life and for the privilege of a new beginning. The turning of the year invites hope and reflection, and it is with both that we welcome this moment,” Former President Jonathan said.

Acknowledging the difficulties Nigerians faced in the past year, the former president said economic strain and insecurity had tested the nation’s resilience, leaving many families burdened by hardship and loss.

“The period behind us has not been without its trials. As a nation and as individuals, we have confronted economic pressures and persistent insecurity challenges that have tested our resilience and, for many families, brought hardship and loss,” he said, stressing that such experiences underscore the need for people-oriented leadership.

Despite these challenges, The Former President commended Nigerians for their courage and perseverance, describing resilience as one of the country’s greatest strengths.

“Even in these difficult circumstances, the enduring character of the Nigerian people has remained evident. Across our communities, we continue to see courage, solidarity, and a quiet determination to persevere,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Jonathan called on both leaders and citizens to renew their commitment to national ideals, emphasising that patriotism must be backed by service, humility, and integrity.

“As we move forward into 2026, leadership at all levels must be anchored in service and guided by humility, integrity, and a sincere commitment to the welfare of the people,” he said.

He added that Nigeria’s progress depends on collective effort, mutual respect, and unwavering dedication to the national interest.

He further stated that through shared responsibility, mutual respect, and steadfast dedication to the national interest that Nigeria can continue on the path toward stability and inclusive development.

He concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling year, while praying for sustained progress toward unity, justice, and shared prosperity.

In a letter dated December 2, the bishop stated that the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, at approximately 5pm  at a naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

He alleged that Revd Tochukwu Agina was assaulted “under a false allegation that he was making a phone call at the checkpoint.”

The bishop wrote, “On Sunday, 30th November 2025, at about 5pm, a deeply disturbing incident occurred at a naval checkpoint located at Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, where a naval officer brutalised an Anglican priest of the Diocese of Ogbaru under a false allegation that he was making a phone call at the checkpoint.”

The bishop said eyewitness accounts and the priest’s testimony confirmed that he was not using a phone at the time.

“Credible eyewitness accounts and the victim’s testimony confirm that the priest was not making any call at the time of the encounter, yet he was subjected to physical assault and inhumane treatment.

“Even though they gave him first aid treatment at the naval clinic,” he wrote.

Amah described the officer’s actions as “not only an abuse of authority but a clear violation of fundamental human rights, the military code of conduct, and the professional ethics of the Nigerian Navy.”

He urged the naval authorities to carry out a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the incident and to take appropriate action.

He added, “While we acknowledge their service to the nation, no circumstance justifies brutality, false accusation, or the dehumanisation of any Nigerian citizen.

“The uniform of the Nigerian Navy symbolises honour, discipline, and service — not intimidation or oppression. Remember, the priest identified himself both in dressing and words.

“We therefore respectfully but firmly request the following: a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this incident. Identification and appropriate disciplinary action against the officer involved. Official communication and reassurance to the affected family, church, and community. Measures to prevent future occurrences through renewed training on civilian–military relations and rules of engagement. Adequate compensation should be given to the clergyman.”

He added that Nigerians still respect the Armed Forces.

“Your Excellency, Nigerians still hold the Armed Forces in high esteem. It is only through justice, accountability, and swift corrective actions that public confidence in our security institutions can be preserved.

“We trust in your leadership and sense of duty to ensure that this matter is addressed with the seriousness it deserves. Justice for one citizen is justice for all,” he said.