Meet Jacquelyn The First White Woman To Be Ordained By Pastor E.A Adeboye In Nigeria

Meet the first international woman to visit the RCCG Camp in Nigeria, Evangelist Jacquelyn H.

Jacquelyn has greatly impacted the Christian community with her strong faith and dedication to spreading the Gospel. As the first international woman ordained by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the esteemed general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Jacquelyn 's faith journey began in 1989. Her ordination is more than just a title; it is well-deserved due to her unwavering commitment to the ministry.

Jacquelyn participation in the historic Lekki 1998 Holy Ghost Congress represents a crucial moment in her life. This important event, organized by Pastor Adeboye in Lagos, Nigeria, drew over 7 million attendees, making it one of the largest gatherings of its kind. Among countless believers, Jacquelyn shared the stage with the talented Pastor Kunle Ajayi, singing praises that uplifted the souls of the congregation.

Jacquelyn participated in the recent annual Holy Ghost Congress 2025 at the Redemption Camp on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria. She ministers there alongside other officiating ministers. Her travels have taken her from America to China, across the vast landscapes of Russia, and beyond. Each location has presented unique challenges and opportunities to share her faith. One of her most unforgettable experiences was meeting a witch doctor in Kenya during her ministry there. This encounter was not merely a clash of beliefs but a powerful reminder of the spiritual battles that occur in various cultural contexts. Jacquelyn’s courageous response to such situations highlights her commitment to bringing light into darkness, breaking chains of bondage, and proclaiming the transformative power of the Gospel. In addition to her evangelistic efforts, Jacquelyn is deeply passionate about philanthropy.

Throughout her numerous visits to Nigeria, Jacquelyn has become a familiar face in RCCG communities, contributing her ministry and compassion to those around her. Her experiences and testimonies have inspired many, especially women, to pursue their calling fearlessly. She often shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of faith, persistence, and the pursuit of one's divine purpose.

She is particularly dedicated to assisting underprivileged children around the globe. Jacquelyn has released a book named THE Beguiling, along with her second split sermon on her website, where she shares inspirational scriptures and quotes. Photo credit: Facebook DoveTV/RCCG

Can a Christian Fulfill the Role of a King in Nigeria

When I was younger my mum told me I could be a king because of my lineage. Someone told me while growing up that to be a king in Nigeria, I have to do traditional rituals and I will be the custodian of traditional religions (Isese). One day, as a teenager I asked my Sunday school teacher whether it is possible to be a king and still be a Christian. He said it is not possible because whosoever want to be a king in Nigeria must be diabolical and must fellowship with ancestral and territorial powers. He even went as far as saying a new king must eat the flesh his immediate ancestor. So I lost interest and hated the Seat of a king. One day, I met a preacher who is also a palace secretary to a paramount king in this country. I saw how he preached powerfully and demonstrated authority over demons and foul spirits in the conference. When he was through and about to leave the venue, I ran after him and I gave him some token as seeds and he held me. While we walked towards his vehicle, I asked ”Sir, please is it possible to be genuine Christian, I mean a true child of God, a born again and still be a king”. He replied “Yes, a big yes; but why did you ask”.

So I told him what people have told me and what I have watched in movies and all, about a king being a custodian of traditions and performing rituals and appealing to all religious beliefs including witch-crafty, Necromancy etc. He motioned to me to enter through the other door into his car and he also took the driver seat. He ignited the car and switched on the AC. I knew he was ready to spill the beans about this Africa Royalty thing, so I was so eager. At least let me get the gist from someone that has been in the palace. A scribe to a king will know everything about the king and what they do in the palace. He knows those that visit him and he also receives correspondence for the king. This man will clear my doubt and I will be more informed. What he told me I can never forget forever. He started by asking me “Is it religion that determine a king or blood”. I didn’t understand the question. He rephrased it, “Do you become a king because you are a Christian, Muslims or Traditionalist, or become a king because you are born into the royal family”. I replied that it is those who are born into the royal family that can become a king. He nodded in agreement and went on to say “Eje Oba lo n doba”(Meaning, it is a king blood that can become a king). He added that one becomes a king because one comes from a lineage of a king. And a king is a ruler over his forefathers land or town or nation. He is not a king over traditionalist or Muslim or Christians alone. He is not appointed by traditionalist or ritualist. He is appointed by God through his blood or lineage. God has chosen him from birth as a potential king that is why a son to a king is usually called “Oba loola”(a tomorrow king).

I cut in, “sir but they do say it is the Ifa oracle that chooses for them”. The man laughed and said “even in the Bible there is something called casting of lots. That was how the people on the ship knew Jonah was the one responsible for mishaps on the ship”. He went on to say it is the same they do when there are multiple interests among heirs to the throne to know who is the best fits for the job. But in a case where the demised king has just one son and there is no other family extension to the throne, it is automatic. This is interesting sir. But it is traditionalist that do install a king, I chipped in. His response made me cry. I will try to say it the exact way but I may not be inaccurate. he said; It is Christians and Muslim that left it for them. Especially Christians, they are most gullible and culpable. They are always timid. It is not that they are timid like that, it is because Christianity was sold to us in Nigeria with western education. Education place priority on Presidential system of government and we lose value for traditional leadership. Traditional leadership is not the same as traditional religion. By “traditional”, I meant the original or what was on ground before colonialism and western education. Pentecostalism worsen it. It even forbade practitioners from participating in politics and has much disdain for traditional politics, not until recently that they started waking up when they started facing persecution. Whereas most of our Christian Patriarch in the Bible were kings; David, Solomon, even Jesus is forever a king. It is an office that Christians have to be because the office the king determines the spiritual climate over a town or community.

It has now gotten to a level that ritualist and traditionalist who are just ordinary citizens and subjects are dictating to born king(heir to the throne) on who can pray for him during his inauguration. If a Royal son has been a Muslim or Christian all his life without anyone dictating to him, is it at the point of fulfilling his calling to be a king that an ordinary citizen will be dictating to him on his beliefs. He is free to invite his pastors or Alfa to pray for him and his staff of office should be given to him by a presentative of the present day government. If the royal son has been a traditionalist, same applies to him. His cults can come and do their thing. For example, my own King is a tongue lashing Christian and yet is the custodian of traditions(not rituals or idol worship). Marriages rites, land disputes settlement, prayers, teaching of values and history, discipline, justice and fairness, partnering with investors, encouraging sons and daughters in diaspora, attending functions, influencing development and working with governors and local governments personnel’s are traditions he upholds. This was his conclusion,

My bother, this is how it should be my brother, but it is not usually this easy. “Oro oba, Atari ajanaku ni o”(unease lies the head that wears the crown”. It is not for babes. When you hears ”Oba, oko oso; oko aje”, it is a king that knows the Lord o. (Meaning: A king; not a match of Wizards or witches, referred to a king that knows the Lord) Photo credit: Instagram King Ooni of Ife King Elegushi of Lagos Obanuso Temitope Obanuso Lead Coach of Campus of champions

Ooni Honors President Mahama with Chieftaincy Title

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has bestowed the chieftaincy title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source upon Ghana's President, Dr. John Mahama. The ceremony, held on Monday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, is part of the celebrations for the Ooni's 10th coronation anniversary.

The Ooni of Ife is a highly esteemed first-class king in Nigeria. Upon his arrival, the President of Ghana was greeted at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, before making his way to Ile-Ife, where he received a warm welcome from a large crowd in the historic city. Ghana's national television, GTV, announced the event on X, stating, "President Mahama was honored with the title 'Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source,' meaning 'A President who reorganizes the global space for humanity,' by Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife."

The installation ceremony took place at the Palace Square and was graced by notable figures, including Aliko Dangote, the President of Dangote Group, and Dele Momodu, the Publisher of Ovation Magazine, among others.

Photo credit: Instagram Ovationmediagroup

Shocking Facts About the Bondi Beach Shooting

Authorities have confirmed that the two shooters involved in the shocking Bondi Beach incident were a father and son. The assailants were identified as a 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son. The older suspect was shot and died at the scene after police returned fire, while his son is in critical condition and is receiving medical treatment. The bold attack in Sydney resulted in 16 fatalities, including a 10-year-old girl. At least 40 others are still hospitalized, with five reported to be in critical condition. Police stated that the father was a licensed gun owner and had six firearms registered under his name. All six guns were recovered during the investigation.

"This was an act of antisemitism, a terrorist act on our own soil at the famous Bondi Beach," he stated. "Yesterday marked a truly dark day in our country's history. However, we as a nation are more resilient than the cowards who committed this act." Authorities confirmed that at least 15 individuals, not including the deceased shooter, lost their lives in the assault, which targeted a Jewish event celebrating Hanukkah. Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl, a rabbi from London, an Israeli man, and a French national. Three children were also among the injured. Witnesses reported that the two suspects exited a vehicle on Campbell Parade near the Bondi Pavilion and began shooting around 6:45 PM. Approximately 200 people were present at the beach for the Hanukkah festivities at that time. Disturbing footage revealed police officers confronting the attackers and ultimately neutralizing the older suspect after a gunfire exchange.

Video recordings also captured a moment of remarkable courage as a bystander tackled one of the gunmen, disarmed him, and tried to turn the weapon against him before setting it aside. Another video depicted hundreds of beachgoers fleeing in terror as gunshots rang out in the vicinity. Global leaders denounced the attack and honored the victims.

Bondi Beach Shooting: A Tragic Attack on Jewish Community

At least 12 individuals, including children, have been k!lled and over two dozen injured in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, according to Australian authorities, who have labeled it a terrorist attack. One gunman was shot dead by police, while the other was taken into custody. The arrested suspect is reported to be in critical condition, authorities stated. Mal Lanyon, the police commissioner for New South Wales, where Sydney is situated, confirmed that at least 29 people were injured, including two police officers.

Chris Minns, the Premier of New South Wales, remarked, "This attack was aimed at Sydney’s Jewish community." Lanyon noted that the massacre was classified as a terrorist attack because of the targeted nature of the event and the weapons used. Hundreds had gathered at Bondi Beach for an event called Chanukah by the Sea, which was celebrating the beginning of the Hanukkah Jewish festival. Chabad identified one of the deceased as Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and a key organizer of the event, who has been active in the Bondi area for over 18 years. Chabad is an Orthodox Jewish movement recognized for its outreach to non-religious Jews. It operates numerous centers worldwide that are favored by Jewish travelers and frequently hosts large public events during significant Jewish holidays. Lanyon mentioned that the death toll was “fluid” and that injured individuals were still being admitted to hospitals. Lachlan Moran, 32, from Melbourne, was waiting for his family nearby when he heard gunfire, he told The Associated Press. He dropped the beer he was carrying for his brother and fled. "You heard a few pops, and I panicked and ran away. … I started sprinting. I just had that instinct.

Police stated that their operation is "ongoing" and that they are examining a "number of suspicious items found nearby," including an improvised explosive device discovered in one of the suspects' vehicles. Emergency services arrived at Campbell Parade around 6:45 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his devastation over the massacre during a press conference in Canberra. "This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, a day that should be filled with joy and faith.

Instead, we face an act of evil, antisemitism, and terrorism that has struck at the heart of our nation," Albanese remarked. "There is no room for this hate, violence, and terrorism in our country." Albanese mentioned that authorities are working to identify all those involved in the attack. "Let me be clear, we will eliminate this vile act of violence and hate, and from it will arise a moment of national unity where Australians will stand together with their fellow Jewish Australians," he stated. "The evil unleashed at Bondi Beach today is incomprehensible, and the trauma and loss that families are facing tonight is beyond anyone's worst nightmare."

Congressman Calls Out Fulani Militants: A Genocide Alert, To Report To Trump

U.S. Republican Congressman Riley Moore has claimed that a surge of violent attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt constitutes a "genocidal campaign." He promised to inform President Donald Trump after leading a risky Congressional delegation to Benue State. Speaking on Fox News’ The Faulkner Focus, Moore mentioned that he and four other members of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee visited several Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue, using armored vehicles due to increasing insecurity. He stated that the delegation met with Catholic Bishops Wilfred Anagbe and Stephen Dugu, the Tor Tiv, and many displaced victims, "all of whom are Christians." Moore asserted that Fulani militants, whom he labeled as "Islamic radicals," were frequently attacking IDP camps and destroying Christian communities. He shared the story of a woman who had to witness "five of her children murdered in front of her" by attackers. "She was pregnant at the time and managed to escape. She gave birth to that baby at an IDP camp. Her spirit had truly left her body," he recounted.

In another instance, Moore described how a woman’s unborn child was "cut out of her" after her husband and two daughters were killed in a different attack. The Congressman rejected long-held explanations that the violence is due to climate issues, land disputes, or economic competition, narratives often referenced by researchers and Nigerian officials. "If this is climate change, why burn a church? Why attack an IDP camp while shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’?” he questioned. "They are attempting to eliminate Christians from their ancestral homeland in Benue State and throughout Nigeria," he asserted. Moore revealed that President Trump had instructed him and House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole to create a detailed report on how the U.S. should interact with Nigerian authorities regarding the crisis. He mentioned that the Benue trip was a "fact-finding mission" to collect "ground truth," with the report anticipated to be submitted before the end of the month.

He further emphasized that the IDP camps are not the safe places that Nigerian officials claim they are. "These camps lack protection. People are scared," he stated. Moore’s statements highlight a long-standing debate about violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where many have lost their lives over the years due to conflicts between farming communities and armed herders. Photo credit: Riley Moore's Facebook page

Nigerian Icons: Okonjo-Iweala and Abudu on Forbes List

Two Nigerian women, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Mo Abudu, have been named in Forbes’ list of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the World for 2025. The list, released on the magazine’s website on Wednesday, honors women who have a major influence in business, politics, culture, and global leadership. It also showcases the increasing impact of these Nigerian women in global trade and media. They are listed alongside prominent figures such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (No. 1), European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde (No. 2), Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi (No. 3), Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum (No. 5), and Namibia’s Prime Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (No. 79).

Okonjo-Iweala, who is ranked 92nd, currently serves as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation. She is the first woman and the first African to take on this role, which she began in March 2021.

Forbes has described her as “an economist and international development expert” with “over 30 years of experience across Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America.” She has previously held the position of Nigeria’s Finance Minister for two terms, from 2003 to 2006 and again from 2011 to 2015, and she briefly acted as Foreign Minister in 2006. Additionally, she chaired the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which has “immunised over 760 million children worldwide.” Okonjo-Iweala earned her bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and her doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

At 71 years old and a mother of four, she is celebrated for her belief in the potential of trade to help developing nations escape poverty and encourage sustainable development. Photo credit: Mo Abudu's Instagram page

US House passes bill to bolster Europe’s defence, in apparent rebuke to Trump’s foreign policy strategy

The US House has passed a comprehensive defense bill that strengthens Europe’s security, serving as a strong response to Donald Trump’s increasing threats to weaken Washington’s relationships with traditional allies and NATO. This bipartisan vote occurred just days after a White House national security strategy was released, stating that Europe faced "civilizational erasure" and clearly expressing Washington’s backing for Europe’s nationalist far-right parties, which has unsettled EU leaders and signaled a significant change in transatlantic relations. In contrast, the House’s $900 billion Pentagon budget is marked by its pro-Europe stance and its restrictions on Trump’s power to cut troop numbers, relocate equipment, or downgrade NATO-related missions. New Trump policies have pointed out 'Europe's weaknesses'.

The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) – which is now moving to the Senate – includes $8 billion more than the funding Trump requested in May. It strongly emphasizes European defense, preventing troop levels on the continent from dropping below 76,000 for more than 45 days and prohibiting the removal of significant equipment. The Trump administration has criticized European leadership. EU leaders are anticipated to enhance their military commitments and equip themselves with more resources for the future.

Thailand and Cambodia: A Conflict Displacing Thousands

Recently, the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia showed no signs of easing today, leaving hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals in both nations living under difficult conditions. About 400,000 people have been evacuated from the affected regions in Thailand, and around 700 schools were closed while fighting continued in four border provinces, according to Thai military spokesperson Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri today. Cambodia evacuated over 127,000 villagers and shut down hundreds of schools, as reported by the defense ministry.

Thailand’s military reported that this week, five soldiers were killed and many others were injured. Cambodia stated that seven civilians had died, and 20 more were hurt, although it did not provide updated figures today. There is still no clear route to peace, as Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pledged to keep fighting, while Cambodia’s leader Hun Sen promised a strong retaliation. The recent fighting followed a skirmish on Sunday that injured two Thai soldiers and disrupted a brief ceasefire that had ended armed conflict in July. The five days of fighting over territorial disagreements resulted in dozens of deaths on both sides and necessitated the evacuation of thousands of civilians. The ceasefire was facilitated by Malaysia and enforced with pressure from US President Donald Trump, who warned he would revoke trade privileges from both countries unless they complied. Away from the front lines, worried evacuees are the most apparent indication of the crisis.

In a leisure center in the northeastern Thai city of Surin, around 550 individuals are waiting out the fighting, many having fled hastily after the first shots were fired on Sunday. Officials have supplied food and activities for children. The cooler winter temperatures have made the situation in the shelter tolerable, but there is unavoidable boredom and anxiety about what they left behind, including homes, valuables, and animals. Thidarat Homhual, a 37-year-old farmer in the shelter with her family, expressed her concern for her cows, ducks, four dogs, and nine cats.

Trump’s Take on Europe: A Critique of 'Decaying' Nations and 'Weak' Leadership

President Donald Trump criticized Europe as a "decaying" collection of nations led by "ineffective" leaders in an interview with POLITICO. He openly disparaged traditional U.S. allies for their inability to manage migration and resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while hinting at his willingness to back European politicians who share his vision for the continent. This sharp critique marks one of Trump's most strident denouncements of European political leadership to date, heightening tensions with nations such as France and Germany, whose relationships with the Trump administration are already significantly strained. Trump described European leaders as "weak" and accused them of prioritizing political correctness over pragmatic solutions. He went on to claim they are uncertain about how to address the challenges they face, adding, "Europe doesn’t know what to do." In addition to his views on Europe, Trump shared several assertive positions on domestic and international matters. He stated that advocating for immediate interest rate cuts would be a key criterion for selecting a new Federal Reserve chair. Moreover, he floated the possibility of extending anti- drüg military operations into Mexico and Colombia. Trump also urged Supreme Court Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, both in their seventies, to remain on the bench. Trump's remarks about Europe come at a critical juncture in efforts to end Russia's aggression in Ukraine. European leaders are increasingly concerned that Trump may withdraw U.S. support for Ukraine, leaving it vulnerable to Russian advances. Offering no reassurances in the interview, Trump declared that Russia had an unmistakable advantage over Ukraine. Speaking from the White House, Trump commented with unreserved confidence during his discussion with POLITICO’s Dasha Burns. On Tuesday, POLITICO named him the most influential figure shaping Europe’s political future—a title previously awarded to prominent leaders such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

While his confident rhetoric on European politics stood out, Trump’s statements on domestic issues highlighted contradictions. Amid a string of recent electoral setbacks and increasing dysfunction in Congress, his administration is navigating growing voter frustration over the rising cost of living. Nevertheless, Trump painted an optimistic picture of the economy, grading its performance as "A-plus-plus-plus-plus-plus," claiming prices are declining, but failing to offer specific plans to counter impending spikes in healthcare premiums.

Expanding on his global outlook, Trump portrayed major European cities like London and Paris as burdened by migration from the Middle East and Africa. Warning of the consequences of lax border control, he predicted that some European countries risk becoming unsustainable without addressing the issue directly.

Nigeria's Strong Stance: Condemnation of the Attempted Coup in Benin Republic

The Federal Government has denounced the attempted coup that occurred on Sunday in the Republic of Benin, characterizing it as a blatant attack on democracy and the collective will of the Beninese populace. In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed its concern regarding the incident and reiterated its solidarity with the neighboring nation. "Nigeria stands firmly in solidarity with the Government and citizens of the Republic of Benin, and commends the prompt actions taken by Beninese authorities to safeguard its legitimate institutions and maintain peace," the statement indicated.

The ministry praised the Beninese security forces for thwarting the coup attempt. "We commend the bravery and professionalism exhibited by the Beninese security forces in upholding the constitutional order and ensuring the safety of the President," it continued. Nigeria cautioned that unconstitutional changes in government threaten regional stability and jeopardize democratic progress. As a member of ECOWAS and the African Union, Nigeria called upon other member states and international partners to denounce this development. "We urge all member states and the international community to come together in condemning this act and reaffirming our collective commitment to the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, as well as the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance," it stated. The Federal Government of Nigeria also called for calm in Benin and urged that political grievances be addressed through lawful means. "We encourage all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain composed, uphold the rule of law, and continue to express any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic channels," it emphasized. The statement further assured Benin of Nigeria’s ongoing cooperation in fostering peace and stability in West Africa.

The attempted coup was reported earlier on state television by a group identifying itself as the "Military Committee for Refoundation," which proclaimed President Patrice Talon re... Nevertheless, Talon’s office maintained that he was safe and that loyal troops were reestablishing order. The French embassy indicated that gunfire was heard near Camp Guezo, which is in proximity to the president’s residence, advising its citizens to remain indoors. This event occurs in the context of a series of recent coups in the area, including those in Niger, Burkina Faso and so on.

Boris Johnson Declares He Feels 'Perfectly Safe' During Visit to Nigeria

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made headlines on Thursday as he confidently stated he felt "perfectly safe" during his visit to Nigeria, brushing off pre-trip security concerns. Speaking at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025, held in the capital city of Owerri, Johnson expressed his commitment to attending the event despite negative reports about security in the country. In his keynote address, Johnson asked attendees if they felt safe and affirmed that he, too, felt secure under the governance of Imo State's Governor Hope Uzodimma. "When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things, and there were people saying, 'There may be some security problems in Nigeria.'" Johnson's positive remarks come amidst ongoing security issues in the nation, including recent abductions and gun attacks.

Despite the challenges Nigeria faces, including a recent designation from President Donald Trump labeling it a “Country of Particular Concern,” Johnson noted that he was impressed with the state's efforts to provide 24-hour electricity as part of its economic growth strategy. "Your focus on electricity is completely right. What is the future? The future is AI. For clean, sustainable electricity—and because of AI, it’s going to be colossal," he stated.

Johnson emphasized the importance of the UK-Nigeria relationship, noting the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two nations. As the former PM joined Governor Uzodimma in promoting investment in Imo State, he highlighted the governor's initiatives to secure sustainable power and improve business infrastructure, stating, "Imo is ready to harvest your investments."

Federal High Court Sets Date for Nnamdi Kanu's Motion Hearing

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled December 8, 2025, for the hearing of a motion ex parte filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu, who was found guilty on November 20, 2025, of all seven counts of terrorism charges brought by the Federal Government and sentenced to life imprisonment, is seeking to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Facility. Kanu was moved to Sokoto following concerns raised by the court regarding his safety, particularly after previous prison breaks occurred at the Kuje Correctional Facility, which was deemed unsuitable. During the proceedings on Thursday, Kanu's brother, Emmanuel Kanu, attempted to represent him despite lacking the necessary legal qualifications.

Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, informed Emmanuel that he could not move the motion because he is not a legal practitioner. Justice Omotosho advised him to engage a qualified lawyer or contact the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria for proper representation. The judge emphasized the importance of legal representation and that the matter would not be assessed at this point to ensure fairness. The court has agreed to accommodate Kanu's case despite other scheduled cases on the docket for Monday. Justice Omotosho also cautioned against any misleading public statements concerning Kanu's appeal record compilation.

Ukraine and US Negotiators Set to Meet in Florida Following Moscow Talks, White House Confirms

US special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to meet Rustem Umerov, the head of Ukraine's national security council, for discussions in Miami on Thursday, as confirmed by the White House. Witkoff had a nearly five—hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday, where the Kremlin stated that there was "no compromise" reached regarding the end of the war in Ukraine. US President Donald Trump described the talks as "reasonably good," but noted it was premature to predict the outcome since "it takes two to tango." Putin later remarked that achieving a consensus would not be an "easy task," emphasizing Moscow's ongoing demand for Ukrainian troops to withdraw from the Donbas region, which is currently occupied by Russian forces. On Thursday, Russian state media quoted Putin saying: "It all comes down to this. Either we liberate these territories by force of arms or Ukrainian troops will leave these territories and stop fighting there." That was their impression.

Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that "the world clearly feels that there is a real opportunity to end the war," but insisted that negotiations must be "backed by pressure on Russia."The US-Russia discussions at the Kremlin followed several days of US meetings with Ukrainian and European leaders, amid concerns that the draft of a peace deal was overly favorable to Russia's demands. Kyiv and its European allies believe that, even if a peace deal is reached, the best way to prevent future Russian aggression would be to grant Ukraine NATO membership. Russia strongly opposes this idea, and Trump has also indicated he has no plans to allow Kyiv into the alliance. The possibility of Ukraine joining NATO was a "key question" addressed in Moscow, according to the Kremlin on Wednesday. The question of whether Ukraine will be allowed to join NATO is a significant concern regarding future attacks if the peace plan ultimately leads to the end of the war.

NATO's Strategic Response: Allies Gather in Brussels After Ukraine Peace Talks Yield No Results

Nearly all foreign ministers of NATO convened in Brussels on Wednesday, following inconclusive peace discussions regarding Ukraine between the United States and President Vladimir Putin, while European officials sought to secure a place at the negotiating table. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte remarked that On Wednesday, December 3, NATO nations committed to purchasing hundreds of millions of additional dollars' worth of US arms for Ukraine, signaling robust support despite the ongoing US-led peace negotiations with Moscow. Foreign ministers from the 32-member alliance assembled in Brussels to deliberate on Washington's efforts to conclude the conflict.

The meeting occurred shortly after US representatives seemingly failed to achieve a significant breakthrough during five hours of discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. NATO chief Mark Rutte underscored the importance of bolstering Ukraine's position, irrespective of the negotiation pace. Rutte stated, "The peace talks are ongoing, which is positive, but concurrently, we must ensure that while they are in progress and we cannot predict when they will conclude Ukraine is in the strongest possible position to continue the fight." As part of this commitment, Germany, Poland, Norway, the Netherlands, and Canada declared their intention to collectively allocate approximately one billion dollars more towards a program to procure American weapons for Ukraine.

While there are no definitive answers regarding the peace plan negotiations from the meeting. photo credit: NATO's Instagram page

President Tinubu Appoints Former CDS Christopher Musa as New Defence Minister

President Bola Tinubu has put forward the nomination of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), as the new Minister of Defence. This nomination follows the resignation of the previous Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, who stepped down on Monday, November 1, 2025, due to health issues.

On Tuesday, December 1, a statement from the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that President Tinubu informed Senate President Godswill Akpabio about General Musa’s nomination to replace Badaru. The statement noted that General Musa, who will turn 58 on December 25, is a respected military leader who held the position of Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. He received the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.

In his letter to the Senate, President Tinubu expressed his trust in General Musa’s capability to head the Ministry of Defence and enhance Nigeria’s security framework.