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.

The Future of Humanity at Risk: Insights from Pope Leo's Inaugural Foreign Visit

Pope Leo XIV has cautioned that the world must not succumb to "an increased level of global conflict" as he begins his foreign visit in Turkey… "The future of humanity is at risk," the Pope stated, urging President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to be a stabilizing force due to the necessity of fostering dialogue and stability. Leo cautioned that the wars of today resemble a "third world war fought in fragments," echoing a phrase previously used by his predecessor, in reference to conflicts in Ukraine, Syria, Myanmar, and other regions. Since his appointment as pontiff six months ago, he has shown a tendency to be very measured, even cautious. However, during this trip, his diplomatic skills will be under close observation.

A significant moment of the journey occurred in the Turkish town of Iznik, the location of the ancient city of Nicaea. Pope Leo and leaders from various Christian traditions will convene to commemorate the anniversary of an ancient council held there 1,700 years ago.

In 325 AD, among other important decisions, over 200 bishops at the council confirmed the belief that Jesus was the son of God, which ultimately led to the Nicene Creed. The Eastern and Western branches of Christianity later experienced a dramatic split, but during this trip, messages of unity and healing of divisions were emphasized.

Photo Credit: Pope Leo offical's Instagram page

NATO's Strategic Shift: Exploring Preemptive Strikes Against Russia Amid Putin's Shadow War in Europe

NATO might have to take the first shot at Russia as Putin's increasing shadow war on Europe pushes the alliance towards a potential change in strategy, a senior admiral has cautioned. Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, head of NATO’s Military Committee, stated that the alliance could be compelled to adopt a preemptive stance, marking a major departure from its longstanding policy of responding only after being provoked. In an interview with the Financial Times, Dragone mentioned that NATO is currently reevaluating its position due to the rising number of Russian sabotage activities throughout Europe. He noted, "We are examining everything. In terms of cyber, we tend to be reactive. Being more aggressive or proactive rather than reactive is something we are considering." For many years, European countries have associated a series of fires, explosions, undersea cable disruptions, and cyberattacks with the Kremlin.

These incidents have included a fire at a Ukrainian-owned warehouse in east London, the cutting of Baltic Sea cables, and airspace violations by unidentified drones, one of which caused the shutdown of Copenhagen airport. Dragone indicated that cyber retaliation would be the easiest and fastest response since many NATO countries have offensive cyber capabilities, but addressing physical sabotage or drone incursions would be more complicated, though still feasible. He mentioned that in certain situations, a "preemptive strike" could be viewed as defensive, although he recognized it was "further away from our usual way of thinking and behavior" and raised issues of legality, jurisdiction, and accountability.

As NATO discusses its approach, high-level diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Ukraine are ongoing in Florida as both parties strive to establish the framework for a possible peace agreement.

Tragic Abduction in Kano: Man and Two Others Kidnapped, Mother K!lled After Prayer Against Political Insecurity

Dozens of armed bandits have stormed Yankamaye village in Tsanyawa Local Government Area of Kano State, k!lling a woman and abducting three others.   It was gathered that the attack occurred at 11pm on Saturday, November 29, 2025 when the villagers had retired to bed.   Sources in the village told Daily Nigerian that the bandits parked their motorcycles on the outskirts of the village and came on foot to avoid detection. According to the sources, the bandits shot an old woman for pleading with them to spare her son from abduction. “They k!lled an old woman because she begged them not to go with her son. However, they shot her and went away with the son," said a villager who preferred anonymity.    “They then left and opened another house and abducted two women, including the sister-in-law of the ward councillor."

  One Nuradeen Rabiu identified the abducted man whose mother was k!lled as Aminu Mahd Ala.    Aminu had called out people who are politicising security challenges in Kano State a few hours before his abduction.   “This was his post, and a few hours later, kidnappers came to his house, took him away, k!lled his mother,” Nuradeen wrote.   Yankamaye village, which is about 5km away from Rimaye town in Katsina State, has come under frequent bandit attack after neighbouring Katsina communities signed “peace accord” with the bandits. Neighbouring communities such as Sundu and Buresawa are also facing similar attacks. At least eight people were abducted during a late-night raid on Biresawa village on Monday. 

Bandits Abduct Kwara Traditional Ruler: A Demand for N150 Million Ransom

Bandits have kidnapped a traditional leader in the Bayagan community, located in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, specifically Ojibara of Bayagan, Oba Kamilu Salami. Reports indicate that the monarch was taken around 9:30 am on Saturday, November 29, 2025, while he was on his farm by a group of bandits armed with AK-47 rifles. Witnesses say the attack occurred suddenly, leaving the community in fear and confusion.

An anonymous source from the community revealed that a farmer from a nearby village saw the abduction. The eyewitness, who was hiding in a guinea corn field, reported seeing the kidnappers force the traditional ruler onto a motorcycle at gunpoint before fleeing in an unknown direction. According to Vanguard, the bandits reached out to the community early Sunday morning, demanding a ransom of N150 million.

The bandits instructed Oba Ojibara to communicate with his community to prove he was in their custody. The report states that the monarch, in his distress, called on the community to negotiate with the bandits for his swift release. He mentioned that they transported him on a motorcycle through dense forests for over five hours before reaching their location, where they were in contact with the community. The monarch also informed his community that an unknown number of individuals were abducted from the neighboring area while he was being taken away.

DSS Summons Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed: Analyzing the Allegations of Incitement

On Friday, November 28, the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly summoned Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, who was the former running mate to the 2023 Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, due to his views that are seen as inciting against the Nigerian State, according to a security source. Sources informed security analyst Zagazola Makama that there are increasing worries about the recent public statements made by the founder of Baze University, particularly those related to his claims of a 'constitutional crisis.' 'A few days ago, Baba-Ahmed appeared on national television, accusing the judiciary and the military of permitting the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashmir Shettima. He even suggested that it was President Tinubu's swearing-in that allowed them to call you 'bloody fools,' the source remarked.

'His provocative comments have implications that could escalate national tensions, especially given the delicate nature of Nigeria's current political situation. This is concerning, as similar narratives have led to instability in countries like Guinea-Bissau and others. 'I think the secret police are handling his comments carefully. This is not about politics; rather, the very existence of our nation could be at risk if such rhetoric is allowed to spread. 'The inaction of the judiciary and military in preventing the inauguration of President Tinubu's administration, as he was quoted, raises significant concerns.'

The source clarified that this invitation follows established protocols, especially since his characterization of efforts to enhance national security as a 'joke' could stir public sentiment and undermine trust in state institutions. 'These meetings are not meant to punish; they are preventive, aimed at clarifying intentions, providing context for the remarks, and stopping the rise of narratives that could unintentionally escalate tensions.” The source added.

The Ongoing Struggle of Freed Kwara Church Kidnap Victims

Thirty-eight members of the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State, who were kidnapped by bandits on November 18, have not yet been reunited with their families, despite their confirmed release. The worshippers were abducted during a special thanksgiving service in the Ekiti Local Government Area, an attack that resulted in three deaths. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed their release through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga clarified that no ransom was paid and that the release was secured through government negotiations.

Following their freedom, the victims were transferred to Ilorin for medical and psychological care sponsored by the state government. A senior official revealed that the delay in reunification is due to the ongoing trauma care, especially for the elderly and children. However, relatives are growing anxious about the prolonged wait. One family member, speaking anonymously, stated: “The government told us they are taking care of them. We celebrated when we heard they had been released, but since that day, they have not arrived in Eruku. We miss them and want them back home.” Officials have pledged thorough care before the return, emphasizing that the victims went through severe trauma.

Obasanjo Warns Tinubu: Act Against Bandits or Nigerians May Seek Foreign Assistance

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to identify the bandits causing terror in the country. He warned that if the President does not act, Nigerians may need to seek assistance from abroad. Obasanjo made these remarks on Friday, November 28, during his address at the Plateau Unity Christmas and Praise Festival. He pointed out that despite the ongoing k!llings of Nigerians from various regions and religions, the government appears unable to safeguard its citizens, labeling the violence as "nonsensical."

"We are part of the global community. If our government fails to protect us, we have the right to ask the international community for help. If we are being k!lled, it is the government's duty to intervene. We must demand that our leaders take action at all levels and in every aspect of life," he stated. Obasanjo also emphasized that the world has progressed to a point where criminals cannot escape justice. "In this technological age, no one should be able to hide after committing a crime without being detected by modern satellites," he remarked.

Reflecting on his presidency, Obasanjo noted that the current use of drones allows for easier apprehension of individuals, unlike during his administration. He questioned the logic behind the government negotiating with and compensating criminals. "Before I left office, I was aware that we had the ability to apprehend anyone in Nigeria. The limitation we faced then was that, after identifying a criminal, we lacked the means to capture them without ground or air movement. Now, with drones, we can take them down. Why are we not doing this? Why are we engaging in negotiations? And after the government pays these criminals, it denies any involvement! We should urge our government to take action. Photo Credit: Olusegun Obasanjo's offical Instagram age president Tinubu's Instagram page

Priscilla Ojo and Jux's $12 Million Kenyan Mansion: A Dream Realized

Influencer Priscilla Ojo and her husband Jux are making headlines after the couple reportedly purchased a stunning mansion in Kenya.

Lovebirds Priscilla Ojo and her husband Jux are making waves with their recent acquisition of a stunning mansion in Kenya, reportedly worth $12 million. Priscilla shared a captivating photo of their new residence, captioning it, "We asked, they delivered!"

Jux took to his own social platform to share pictures that echoed the same joy, highlighting their shared excitement over their new beginnings.

This purchase undoubtedly showcases the couple's success and dedication to building a life together. Fans can look forward to more glimpses of their paradise after the cuts!

Photo Credit: Priscilla Ojo and Jux's Instagram page

US will pause migration from ‘third-world countries’- Says Trump

US President Donald Trump has warned of intensifying his immigration crackdown, promising to "permanently pause migration" to the US from all "third world countries" as he criticized his nation's "refugee burden". Trump's social media statement followed the announcement of a US National Guard member's de@th due to a shooting in Washington DC, for which an Afghan national is being held responsible. He did not provide additional details or specify which countries could be impacted. This plan may encounter legal obstacles and has already faced opposition from UN agencies. The president's statements after Wednesday's de@dly incident indicate a further hardening of his position on migrants during his second term.

In addition to other actions, Trump has aimed to implement mass deportations of migrants who entered the US unlawfully, significantly reduce the yearly quota for refugee admissions, and eliminate automatic citizenship rights that currently apply to nearly everyone born in the US. Following Wednesday's shooting, Trump vowed to expel any foreigner "from any country who does not belong here". On the same day, the US halted processing all immigration applications from Afghans, stating that the decision was made while reviewing "security and vetting protocols". Then on Thursday, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it would reassess green cards granted to individuals who had immigrated… Trump's strongly worded two-part post on Thursday night went even further, promising to "end all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens".

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover," the president wrote. The phrase "third world" is a term that was used in the past to describe poorer, developing nations. The White House and USCIS have not provided more information about Trump's plan, which he did not directly connect to Wednesday's attack in his post. Earlier this year, the president had already put a travel ban on nationals from Afghanistan and 11 other countries, mostly in Africa and Asia. During his first term, another travel ban was implemented that affected several majority-Muslim countries. In response to Trump's comments, the UN urged his administration to follow international agreements concerning asylum seekers. The deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general told Reuters, "We expect all countries, including the United States, to honour their commitments under the 1953 Refugee Convention."

Niger State Abduction Leaves 265 Educators and Pupils Unaccounted For, Catholic Bishop Says

The Catholic Bishop of Kontagora, Bulus Yohanna, reported that over a week after gunmen abducted many schoolchildren from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, 265 teachers and students remain missing. Yohanna made this statement on Friday, November 28, during an interview with Channels Television. He mentioned that the total includes 12 teachers and 253 schoolchildren, and that the diocese has sent the names of the abducted individuals to Niger State Governor, Umar Bago. "We had 303 pupils and students unaccounted for, along with 12 teachers. We combined those numbers to reach a total of 315 that we cannot find after conducting a headcount," the bishop explained. Those who managed to escape returned to their villages. As we began receiving calls from those who reunited with their families, we confirmed 50 out of the 315, including staff and teachers who were also missing. After deducting that number, we now have 265 individuals unaccounted for," he stated.

Yohanna, who also leads the Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), urged the Federal Government to send security forces to protect schools in the North-Central region. The bishop expressed that the kidnapping has caused significant distress for the parents of the abducted schoolgirls. He noted that two parents have died from the shock of the situation. The cleric called on both the federal and state governments to assist the school by ensuring the safety of the students and teachers still held captive by the kidnappers.

The gunmen took more than 300 children from the Catholic institution, marking a troubling return of mass kidnappings that have plagued Nigeria for years.

Senator Sani Identifies Northern Origin of Terrorist and Bandit Groups in Nigeria

Senator Shehu Sani has made a bold assertion, declaring that the terrorists and bandits causing havoc in Nigeria's North-East and North-West are not foreign infiltrators but homegrown individuals from the region itself. During an engaging discussion on national television, Sani who previously represented Kaduna Central in Nigeria’s 9th Assembly didn’t hold back as he delved into the ongoing security crisis. Speaking at length about the roots of insecurity in northern Nigeria, he firmly stated that resolving these issues would require a proactive and honest approach from the region’s leaders. Addressing the widespread belief that these armed groups are backed by foreign elements, Sani dismissed the speculation as misleading. Contrary to claims attributing the violence to people from countries like Mali, Malawi, or other parts of Africa, he emphatically pointed to locals within the region as the primary actors. He clarified that those engaging in these criminal activities in the North-East are not foreign operatives from places like Congo, Libya, or Egypt they are Northerners and predominantly Muslims. Similarly, when it comes to the banditry in the North-West, Sani underlined that these are not militants from Senegal, Morocco, Guinea, or Guinea-Bissau; rather, they are Fulani people native to the area.

He stressed that solving this issue rests squarely in the hands of northern leaders. These perpetrators are not strangers who speak unfamiliar tongues. They communicate in languages deeply rooted in the region, such as Fulani, Hausa, and Kanuri languages spoken by many in Northern Nigeria. Speaking further on the scale of the issue, Sani challenged the assumption that these groups consist of an overwhelming number of fighters. According to him, their total number barely exceeds 5,000. This highlights that while their destructive impact feels immense, the actual number of people involved may be smaller than many believe.

To resolve this crisis, Sani called on northern leaders to take decisive action. He emphasized the need for a homegrown solution driven by accurate intelligence and a unified commitment to addressing the reality on the ground. For him, it is only by acknowledging the truth about those behind these acts and owning up to their responsibility that the region can truly chart a path toward peace and stability.