Abuja, December 22, 2025 — The Federal Government has officially declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations. Additionally, Thursday, January 1, 2026, has been declared a public holiday for the New Year.
The announcement was made on behalf of the government by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
A Call for Reflection and Unity
In his message, Minister Tunji-Ojo called on citizens to embrace the core values associated with the Christmas season. He urged Nigerians to reflect on “the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ.”
Emphasizing national unity, the Minister encouraged all citizens, “regardless of faith or ethnicity,” to use the festive period as an opportunity to offer prayers for the nation’s peace, security, and continued progress.
Emphasis on Security and Lawfulness
With celebrations expected across the country, the Minister issued a firm advisory on safety. He urged the public to “remain law-abiding and security conscious” during the holidays to ensure a peaceful and joyful season for all.
Concluding the statement, Dr. Tunji-Ojo extended warm wishes to all Nigerians: “The Ministry of Interior wishes all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.”
ABUJA, DECEMBER 21, 2025 – The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a firm assurance to Nigerians that the batch of Indomie Noodles recalled in France over allergen concerns is not authorized for sale and does not pose a risk within the country’s market.
The clarification comes in response to the recall announcement by French authorities, under the Rappel Conso platform, concerning a specific Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour. The recall was initiated due to the discovery of undeclared allergens—milk and egg—which pose a serious health risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances.
Product Not Registered, Importation Illegal
In a statement released on Saturday, NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, emphasized that the affected product is entirely separate from the noodles available in Nigeria.
“The Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour in question is not registered with NAFDAC for sale in Nigeria,” Adeyeye stated. She further highlighted that noodles are on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, making their importation into the country illegal.
Heightened Surveillance Activated
To ensure the recalled product does not enter the Nigerian market through unofficial channels, NAFDAC has activated a nationwide surveillance protocol.
· The agency’s zonal directors and state coordinators have been directed to intensify monitoring and “mop up the product if found within their jurisdictions.”
· The Ports Inspection Directorate (PID) has been placed on high alert to block any potential smuggling attempts.
· The agency also extended its vigilance to protect Nigerians who may purchase food products online or while traveling abroad.
Local Production Under Strict Regulation
Professor Adeyeye explained that all instant noodle brands approved for sale in Nigeria, including Indomie, are manufactured locally. These products only receive NAFDAC registration after passing stringent regulatory checks, which include audits for strict compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
“Consumers can be confident that noodles on Nigerian shelves are produced under the strict supervision of NAFDAC and are safe for consumption,” the DG affirmed.
Public Advisory and Reporting Channels
NAFDAC has advised the public to remain vigilant and take the following actions:
· Discard the specific Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour from France if encountered.
· Report any suspected sale or distribution of the product immediately.
· Use the provided channels to report any adverse reactions to food or drugs.
Official Reporting Channels:
· Toll-Free Line: 0800-162-3322
· E-Reporting: Via the official NAFDAC website
The agency reiterated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health, assuring Nigerians that it remains proactive in monitoring both local and international markets to prevent threats to consumer safety.
BAUCHI — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during a condolence visit to Bauchi State, announced the renaming of the Federal University of Medical Sciences, Azare, to honour the late Islamic cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi.
The university will now be known as the Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi University. The President made the announcement on Friday at the palace of the late cleric’s family in Bauchi.
A Tribute to a Legacy of Service
President Tinubu, speaking to the family, government officials, and community leaders, described the late Sheikh as a man of great impact who dedicated his life to the service of humanity and the propagation of knowledge on the path of God.
“The late revered Sheikh was a man who loved humanity, brought impactful knowledge to the people, and worked so hard on the part of the Almighty Allah,” the President stated.
He continued, “From today onward, I will announce a change of name to immortalize him. The Federal University of Medical Sciences, Azare, Bauchi, will from today be known as Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi University.”
The President concluded his remarks with prayers for the nation: “We all came from the Almighty Allah and we will return to Him. The best thing for us is to continue to pray for peace, the stability of our country, for economic prosperity, development, and to live the values that he left behind.”
Governor Bala Mohammed Hails Presidential Visit
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for personally undertaking the condolence visit. The Governor noted that the President had previously sent Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him during the cleric’s burial rites.
“For the President to have come down himself showed the kind of affinity and respect he has for the late Sheikh, the family, and the people of the state,” Governor Mohammed said. “We are really grateful and delighted for this visit.”
The renaming of the federal institution is seen as a significant gesture to immortalize Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi, a prominent religious leader whose teachings and philanthropic work garnered widespread respect across northern Nigeria and beyond. He passed away in October 2025 at the age of 95.
About the University
The Federal University of Medical Sciences, Azare, is a specialized institution established to train medical and healthcare professionals. Its renaming in honour of Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi permanently links the university to a legacy of community service and spiritual leadership.
ABUJA, December 21, 2025 – A political group has called for the impeachment of President Bola Tinubu over explosive allegations that the executive branch illegally altered key tax reform laws after they were passed by the National Assembly.
The call by the League of Northern Democrats (LND) marks a significant escalation in a growing political crisis that has united opposition figures and civil society groups in demanding a suspension of the new tax laws and a full investigation.
The Core Allegation: “A Direct Assault on Legislative Power”
The controversy stems from claims first raised on the floor of the House of Representatives by member Abdussamad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto) . Dasuki alleged that the versions of four new tax laws published in the official government gazette contain material differences from the bills that were debated, voted on, and passed by the legislature .
Critics allege that accountability provisions were stripped out and new, “coercive” powers for tax authorities were inserted without legislative approval . These reportedly include powers of arrest, the ability to take over property for non-compliance without court orders, and requirements for large cash deposits before taxpayers can appeal assessments
The League of Northern Democrats, in a letter to the National Assembly leadership, argued that such an act would constitute “a direct assault on the legislative powers” and an “illegal usurpation” that amounts to “gross misconduct”—the constitutional grounds for impeachment .
Opposition and Civil Society Echo Calls for Action
The LND is not alone in its demands. A coalition of opposition voices has united in calling for transparency and accountability:
Key Demands from Various Groups
· League of Northern Democrats (LND): Calls for investigation, public release of both law versions, and impeachment proceedings under Section 143 if allegations are proven .
· Former VP Atiku Abubakar & Peter Obi: Demand suspension of the laws’ implementation pending an independent probe to “restore public confidence” .
· African Democratic Congress (ADC): Alleges “forensic” proof of alterations and “criminal insertions”; calls for suspension, investigation, and prosecution .
· Centre for Information Tech. & Development (CITAD): Warns of “grave constitutional” issues; demands transparent investigation and suspension of the January 1, 2026, implementation date .
The Presidency’s Firm Denial
The Presidency has categorically dismissed all allegations. Senior aides have labeled the claims “opposition noise” aimed at creating controversy and insist no changes were made outside the established legal process .
“The law has already been passed… and by January 1, it will come fully into effect,” stated Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, ruling out any suspension . The Presidency maintains that the House of Representatives’ own ad-hoc committee should be allowed to complete its work .
A Daunting Impeachment Process
While the LND has invoked Section 143 of the Constitution, the path to impeaching a president in Nigeria is deliberately long and requires very high political consensus. The process has never been successfully completed in the country’s democratic history .
Key Steps in the Impeachment Process
1. Notice of Allegation: Must be signed by at least one-third of all National Assembly members (157 out of 469) and presented to the Senate President .
2. Initial Vote: Within 14 days, each chamber must vote, without debate, on whether to investigate. This requires a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and House.
3. Investigation Panel: If the vote passes, the Chief Justice of Nigeria appoints a 7-member independent panel to investigate .
4. Final Removal: The panel reports back. If it finds the allegation proven, the National Assembly must again secure a two-thirds majority in each chamber to adopt the report and remove the president from office .
Broader Context: A Pattern of Executive-Legislative Tension
This controversy does not exist in isolation. It follows a recent Supreme Court ruling on December 15 that affirmed broad presidential powers during a state of emergency—a decision criticized by the ADC as creating a “constitutional tyrant” .
The LND’s letter also references other “unconstitutional” executive actions, including allegations of unauthorized contracts, suggesting a building narrative of executive overreach . Meanwhile, the ruling APC maintains a strong majority in the National Assembly, making the prospect of gathering the supermajority needed for impeachment highly unlikely in the current political climate .
The immediate next step rests with the seven-man ad-hoc committee established by the House of Representatives. Its findings will determine whether the allegations fade or ignite a full-blown constitutional confrontation.
ABUJA — The intervention by Nigeria’s electoral umpire has failed to resolve the deep-seated leadership crisis plaguing the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The two rival factions, backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, remain entrenched in their positions, each claiming legitimacy as the party’s rightful leadership.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) summoned the warring groups to its headquarters on Friday in a bid to broker peace, citing its statutory duty to monitor political parties and the urgent need for clarity ahead of crucial upcoming elections.
A Failed Intervention for Impending Elections
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, stated the commission’s intervention was necessary due to “a series of conflicting correspondences” from the PDP. He emphasized the practical urgency, highlighting preparations for the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections in February 2026 and the governorship polls in Ekiti and Osun states in June and July 2026, respectively.
“The two factions were brought together, but there was no resolution. The camps left as they came—divided,” an INEC source familiar with the meeting told NewsFocus.
Factions Dig In, Await Court Judgment
Representatives from both camps confirmed the stalemate, indicating that a legal resolution is now the only foreseeable path forward.
Makinde’s Bloc: The faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, stated that the INEC meeting was merely an “interaction” and that all parties must now await the judgment of the Court of Appeal. He argued that the Supreme Court had previously cautioned INEC against determining a political party’s leadership, framing the party’s internal convention as its own affair.
· Wike’s Camp: The Acting National Youth Leader for the Wike-led faction, Timothy Osadolor, was more dismissive. He described the rival group’s November convention in Ibadan as an “early Christmas party” and insisted that those involved must “return to the party or go wherever else they choose.” He noted that several figures from the Makinde camp, including Governor Ademola Adeleke, have since defected to other parties.
The Stakes of the Prolonged Crisis
The protracted internal war threatens to cripple the PDP’s effectiveness as Nigeria’s primary opposition force. Analysts warn that the uncertainty and public infighting severely damage the party’s credibility, weaken its structures, and jeopardize its ability to mount a coherent challenge in the imminent elections.
“A divided opposition is a gift to the ruling party,” said political analyst Dr. Chidi Nwafor. “With vital elections in the FCT, Ekiti, and Osun on the horizon, the PDP is consuming itself instead of preparing to contest. Every day this crisis continues, their chances diminish.”
With both factions refusing to back down and pinning their hopes on the courts, the PDP’s future remains in limbo, casting a long shadow over Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle.
WASHINGTON/December 19, 2025 – The United States military carried out extensive airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria on Friday, a direct response to a recent attack on American personnel stationed in the region, according to U.S. defense officials.
The large-scale operation targeted dozens of ISIS facilities and positions. It marks a significant escalation in the U.S.-led coalition’s ongoing campaign against the militant group’s remnants in Syria.
A Retaliatory Response
The strikes were explicitly conducted in retaliation for an attack against U.S. forces. While details of the initial attack on American personnel were not immediately disclosed, such incidents typically involve rocket or drone fire targeting bases where U.S. troops are stationed as part of the international coalition against ISIS.
“The United States will not hesitate to defend our people and our interests,” a Pentagon spokesperson said, underscoring the retaliatory nature of the operation. “We will take all necessary measures to protect our forces.”
Sustained Counter-Terrorism Campaign
Friday’s action is part of a sustained, months-long campaign by the U.S.-led coalition, which has involved both airstrikes and ground operations aimed at degrading Islamic State capabilities. The coalition often coordinates these activities with local partners, including Syrian security forces, to pursue ISIS suspects and disrupt their networks.
The Islamic State, which once controlled vast territory across Syria and Iraq, was militarily defeated but maintains a persistent, low-level insurgency. The U.S. maintains approximately 900 troops in Syria, primarily to advise local partner forces and conduct counter-terrorism missions to prevent an ISIS resurgence.
Regional and Strategic Context
The strikes occur within a complex regional security environment. Syria remains fractured by civil war, with the presence of U.S., Turkish, Russian, Iranian, and various Syrian factional forces. U.S. military actions are carefully calibrated to avoid direct confrontation with other major powers operating in the country, notably Russia.
Military analysts note that while large-scale strikes demonstrate resolve, the enduring challenge in Syria remains one of governance and stability. “These strikes can set ISIS back tactically,” said a regional security analyst, “but the underlying conditions that allow extremist groups to survive require a political solution beyond military means.”
The U.S. Department of Defense stated that initial assessments indicate the strikes successfully hit their intended targets and further operational details would be provided as they become available.
LAGOS – In a landmark recognition, the late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti has been selected as a recipient of the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, set to be presented at the 2026 Grammys ceremony. The award marks a historic first, as Fela becomes the first African musician to ever receive this prestigious honor.
Historic Honor for an African Icon
The announcement was made on December 19,confirming that Fela will be celebrated alongside other global music icons, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon, at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony on January 31, 2026. The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to performers who have made “creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording”. This honor places the Nigerian icon in an elite group of past recipients such as The Beatles, Bob Marley, and Aretha Franklin.
The Legacy of the “Black President”
· Musical Revolutionary: Fela is hailed as the undisputed father of Afrobeat, a genre he pioneered by blending funk, jazz, and traditional West African rhythms with politically charged lyrics. His music was known for its expansive sound—featuring large bands of 30 or more musicians—and songs that could stretch to 45 minutes, breaking conventional industry rules.
· Fearless Activism: His art was inseparable from his activism. Nicknamed the “Black President,” Fela was a vocal critic of Nigeria’s military dictatorships and South African apartheid. His 1976 album Zombie, a scathing critique of the military, led to a violent raid on his Lagos compound by government forces. That same album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in June 2025, foreshadowing this lifetime achievement honor.
· Enduring Influence: Although he was never nominated for a Grammy during his lifetime, his influence is immense and global. His music has inspired and been sampled by artists from Beyoncé and Burna Boy to Paul McCartney. His sons, Femi and Seun Kuti, have collectively received eight Grammy nominations, continuing his musical dynasty.
Key Details of the Award
· Award Recipient: Fela Anikulapo Kuti (Posthumous)
· Award: Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award
· Ceremony: Special Merit Awards Ceremony
· Date: January 31, 2026
· Grammy Telecast: 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026
· Significance: First African musician to receive this award
A Legacy Cemented
Fela’s son,Femi Kuti, who accepted the Hall of Fame award for Zombie earlier in 2025, stated that their “father’s legacy lives on” and that his music “continues to inspire and unite people across the world”. This Lifetime Achievement Award serves as a monumental, formal acknowledgment from the global music industry of Fela Kuti’s unparalleled role as both a musical architect and a fearless voice for social justice.
His legacy continues not only through music but also through cultural institutions like the Kalakuta Museum and the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, ensuring that the spirit of the “Abami Eda” (the Strange One) endures for generations.
IBADAN, OYO STATE – The Nigerian Army has inaugurated 60 new housing units in the Akobo area of Ibadan, a significant step in its mission to provide affordable homes for its personnel. In a landmark welfare initiative, 5% of these units have been allocated free of charge to soldiers who sustained permanent disabilities while serving the nation.
The project, launched under the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Scheme, is a core part of the Army’s “Soldier First” transformation agenda. According to an official statement by Army spokesperson Colonel Apollonia Anele, 70% of the housing units are reserved for soldiers at deeply subsidized rates, with homes valued at up to ₦30 million sold for as low as ₦7.5 million.
A Foundation for Dignity and Stability
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who inaugurated the project, stated that access to decent and affordable housing is central to troop morale and operational effectiveness.
“The AHOOAS scheme is designed to ensure that soldiers retire in dignity, with secure home ownership in locations of their choice,” General Shaibu said. He emphasized that the initiative is a practical demonstration of the Army’s commitment to its personnel’s welfare, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision.
The project in Ibadan marks the expansion of the scheme beyond its successful pilot phase in Idu, Abuja, which delivered over 400 units. The Army has announced plans to extend the program to other locations, including Benin, Jos, and Akwa Ibom.
Detailed Breakdown of the Housing Initiative
· Total Units Inaugurated: 60 flats (30 two-bedroom and 30 three-bedroom).
· Beneficiaries: Non-Commissioned Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers.
· Pricing Model: A deliberate welfare intervention, not a commercial venture. Houses built at costs up to ₦30 million are sold to soldiers for ₦7.5 million.
· Special Allocation: 5% of units granted free to soldiers with permanent disabilities sustained in service.
· Subsidized Access: 70% of units reserved for soldiers at the highly subsidized rate.
Major General Isiah Alison, Managing Director of the Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL), the project executors, explained the scheme’s ethos. “This is a deliberate welfare intervention rather than a commercial venture,” he stated.
Supporting Families and Local Economies
Alongside the housing units, a new shopping complex was also inaugurated under the PHDL. This complex is designed to support small businesses run by soldiers’ families and stimulate local economic activity around military formations.
General Shaibu commended the Oyo State Government for its support and called on other state governments to facilitate the scheme’s expansion by allocating land for future phases. He also acknowledged the Family Homes Funds Limited for its partnership in constructing 50 housing units for widows of fallen heroes, a separate but complementary welfare project.
This housing initiative represents one of the most substantial, direct welfare investments for military personnel in recent years, aiming to provide long-term security and stability for those who serve the nation.
ABUJA – Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has raised a significant alarm over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, revealing that the Senate is on the verge of becoming a single-party chamber as opposition senators defect en masse to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a plenary session, Akpabio disclosed that the opposition, which began with nearly 50 senators after the 2023 elections, has now been reduced to a mere handful.
Opposition on the Brink of Extinction
Akpabio provided a stark numerical account of the political realignment occurring in the upper legislative chamber. “When we came in, the opposition in the Senate was almost 50,” he stated. “Today, when I counted, there are about 5 or 4 left in the opposition.”
In a revelation that underscores the depth of the crisis, Akpabio added that even these remaining few are poised to cross over. “Even those five members have whispered to me that I should take them to the President as they are prepared to join the APC,” he said.
To prevent the complete collapse of a minority presence—a fundamental requirement for a vibrant democracy—Akpabio admitted to employing an unusual tactic. He has allowed some senators who have already defected to the APC in their home states to technically remain within the minority caucus in the Senate.
He cited the example of Enugu State, thanking Governor Peter Mbah for ensuring that Senator Osita Ngwu retained the position of Minority Chief Whip. “Otherwise, this place would have been empty,” Akpabio conceded.
Calls for Inclusivity Amid Political Monopoly
Facing the prospect of a near-total APC Senate, Akpabio emphasized the need for inclusive governance. He urged that all senators, regardless of their original party affiliation, must be carried along in legislative business.
“Stakeholders coming in from other political parties must be given equal opportunities to thrive. There must not be any discrimination,” the Senate President asserted.
He framed the current period as one of national growth accompanied by significant challenges. “This is a time of growth and challenge. With growth comes envy and jealousy, and with jealousy comes hatred,” Akpabio said, calling for unity and cooperation among all senators to address pressing national issues.
Broader Context and National Concerns
The near-total erosion of the opposition in the Senate occurs against a backdrop of ongoing national security and humanitarian challenges, which Akpabio also addressed. He praised the federal government for the recent release of over 100 kidnapped children while calling for prayers and continued action for those still in captivity.
Political analysts suggest that the mass defections reflect a broader trend of political realignment towards the ruling party at the national level, a phenomenon often attributed to the allure of power, patronage, and the weakening of opposition structures. Critics argue that a legislature without a robust opposition undermines accountability, healthy debate, and the checks and balances essential for a functioning democracy.
The Senate President’s unprecedented public admission highlights a critical juncture for Nigeria’s political landscape, raising fundamental questions about the future of multi-party democracy and robust legislative oversight in the country.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it will await the judgment of the Court of Appeal on its leadership tussle, following a lengthy meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday.
The meeting, convened by INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, brought together the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee and the faction aligned with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, as part of efforts to address the ongoing leadership crisis within the party.
In a statement issued by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said both factions presented their positions extensively, but the commission acknowledged that the dispute is now before the Court of Appeal.
“The meeting was called to hear from both sides. INEC is aware of the pending court cases and will await the final judgment before taking further action,” the statement said.
Kabiru Turaki, the PDP National Chairman, reaffirmed his faction’s position as the authentic leadership of the party, stressing that while awaiting the court’s decision, the party would continue its role as an opposition force.
“As the authentic leadership that emerged from a valid convention, though contested in court, we will continue to perform the duties of an opposition party, holding the government accountable on critical issues such as security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” Turaki said.
The PDP’s position underscores the party’s intent to maintain operational continuity while respecting the judicial process in resolving its leadership disputes.
