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First Baby of 2026: Mahmoud Applauds First Lady Tinubu’s Enduring Commitment to Maternal, Child Health

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has commended the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her consistent and lifelong commitment to maternal and child welfare through the annual First Baby of the Year initiative.

Mahmoud described the initiative as a compassionate and enduring tradition that reflects the First Lady’s deep concern for the wellbeing of mothers and newborns, while symbolising hope, renewal and fresh beginnings at the start of each new year.

The minister spoke when she joined Senator Tinubu to welcome the first baby of 2026, delivered at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.

Congratulating the parents and family of the newborn, Mahmoud said the birth of the first baby of the year represents a powerful symbol of hope and new possibilities for the Federal Capital Territory and the nation as a whole.

She also praised the dedication of healthcare workers—doctors, nurses, midwives and support staff—for their commitment to ensuring safe deliveries and quality maternal and child healthcare, particularly during festive periods.

Reaffirming the commitment of the FCT Administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mahmoud said the administration would continue to strengthen the healthcare system through improved facilities, enhanced manpower and wider access to services.

“As we usher in 2026, let us recommit to safeguarding mothers and children, supporting families and fostering a healthier Abuja. Every child deserves the best start in life,” she said.

The minister further stressed that the FCT Administration, under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, remains committed to encouraging residents to prioritise health and family wellbeing as essential pillars for building a prosperous and inclusive society.

Meanwhile, the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat has commenced the distribution of essential neonatal kits to nursing mothers at primary healthcare centres across the six area councils of the territory.

Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, represented by the Director of Child Development Department, Dr. Idris Yahaya, said the initiative underscores the First Lady’s sustained concern for maternal and child welfare and her resolve to nurture hope from the very beginning of life.

Items distributed include baby wrappers and blankets, baby clothes, diapers, baby towels, soap, lotion or petroleum jelly, methylated spirit for cord care, hand sanitisers and other essential supplies.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at supporting nursing mothers and reinforcing the importance of quality maternal and child healthcare across the FCT.

2026: FCTA Pledges Stronger Security as Abuja Residents Demand Affordable Housing, Better Healthcare

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has assured residents of Abuja of sustained and enhanced security operations in 2026, pledging to consolidate gains recorded in the fight against crime across the territory, even as citizens called for urgent reforms in housing and healthcare delivery.

The assurance was given by the Director of the Security Services Department of the FCTA, Mr. Adamu Gwary, during visits to churches and other strategic locations across the city during crossover night services early Thursday.

Gwary, who was represented by the Secretary, Command and Control, Dr. Peter Olumuji, said the administration, through the Operation Sweep Joint Task Force, would intensify efforts to curb criminal activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

“All the security agencies have assured the Honourable Minister that they will sustain the gains recorded into the new year. Our focus is not only during the Yuletide season, but throughout 2026 and beyond,” he said.

He added that the FCT Commissioner of Police, who leads the joint task force, would soon brief the public on achievements recorded so far in the ongoing security operations.

While commending the administration for its security efforts, residents and religious leaders used the occasion to draw attention to key socio-economic issues requiring government intervention in the new year.

The Vicar of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Kubwa, Prof. Solomon Esomu, urged the FCTA to prioritise affordable housing to make Abuja more inclusive.

“The FCT should be a place where people can truly live. We have many houses, but many residents cannot afford them. We need housing schemes that cater for the poor, the middle class and the rich alike,” Esomu said.

Similarly, the Vice Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), FCT chapter, Pastor Maxwell Gbinije, commended the administration’s performance but called for policies that are more people-centred.

“The FCT Administration should continue the good work, but also remain conscious of the people they are leading,” Gbinije, who pastors The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Utako, said, urging residents to remain hopeful in 2026.

On healthcare, the Pastor-in-Charge of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), New Life Parish, Region 45, Kubwa, Pastor Mike Ayambode, appealed for urgent improvements in hospital infrastructure.

“There are cases where patients are moved from one hospital to another because of lack of beds or space, leading to avoidable deaths. Our hospitals and schools need urgent infrastructure upgrades,” he said.

Also speaking, Pastor Isaac Peter of ECWA Good News Church, PW Kubwa, called on the FCTA to sustain its fight against kidnappings and the notorious one-chance syndicates operating within the territory.

“Insecurity remains a concern, especially one-chance incidents. The government should not relent in its efforts,” he said.

The FCTA reaffirmed that security would remain a top priority in 2026, stressing its continued collaboration with all security agencies to ensure Abuja remains safe for residents and visitors alike.

CAN Urges FG to End Insecurity, Ease Hardship, Restore Displaced Communities

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address insecurity, ease economic hardship, and implement clear plans for the resettlement of displaced communities, warning that national recovery remains incomplete unless reforms bring tangible relief to ordinary citizens.

In a New Year message issued on January 1, 2026, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, lamented the persistence of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime across the country, describing them as grave concerns that demand decisive and sustained government action.

Call for Restoration of Displaced Communities

CAN stressed that it was unjust for citizens displaced by violence to remain indefinitely uprooted from their homes and ancestral lands. The association urged authorities to move beyond temporary relief measures to comprehensive restoration.

> “Security must be guaranteed, homes and infrastructure rebuilt, and displaced persons enabled to return safely and with dignity,” the statement read. “A nation cannot claim healing while entire communities remain unsettled.”

Economic Hardship and Reforms

Reflecting on 2025, CAN described the year as one marked by severe economic hardship, rising living costs, insecurity, and widespread uncertainty, which placed enormous strain on families nationwide. The association emphasized that reforms and recovery plans must be felt in the daily lives of citizens.

> “Development that does not touch ordinary lives remains incomplete,” CAN noted, stressing that true progress is evident only when food is affordable, healthcare accessible, education attainable, and meaningful employment available.

The body also urged leaders to ensure that fiscal and tax reforms are guided by wisdom, fairness, and restraint, warning that economic decisions must not deepen hardship for low-income earners, small businesses, and rural communities.

Moral Concerns and Leadership

Beyond economic and security challenges, CAN identified corruption, injustice, and division as moral issues undermining trust and weakening Nigeria’s national conscience. It called for leadership anchored on integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve.

Reaffirming its role, CAN pledged to continue standing with the people, “speaking truth with love and sustaining hope despite prevailing difficulties.”

Hope for 2026

Archbishop Okoh expressed confidence that Nigeria’s future remains bright, declaring: “Nigeria is not without a future. Justice, peace and restoration are achievable through responsible leadership and unity.”

The statement concluded with prayers for divine guidance as Nigerians journey through 2026 with what CAN described as “sober hope” for healing, stability, and shared progress.

AMAC Chairman Declares 2026 ‘Year of Massive Victory, Sustainability’

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, has declared 2026 as a decisive year for deepening democratic dividends and achieving sustainable development across the council.

In his New Year message released Thursday from the AMAC Secretariat, Maikalangu congratulated residents on entering the new year, describing it as a pivotal period for consolidating past gains and laying a solid foundation for long-term prosperity.

He expressed gratitude to residents for their resilience and support, noting that achievements recorded in 2025 had positioned AMAC for what he termed a “Year of Massive Victory and Sustainability.”

Infrastructure and Development Goals

Maikalangu explained that the “victory” envisioned for 2026 transcends politics, encompassing triumphs over infrastructure deficits, unemployment, and social inequality. He pledged that landmark projects would be completed and sustained for future generations.

The chairman outlined priorities for the year, including:

– Expanding vocational training programmes and micro-credit schemes to empower youths and entrepreneurs.

– Bridging development gaps between the city centre and rural wards to ensure inclusive growth.

– Establishing strong maintenance frameworks to keep public assets functional and durable.

Security and Civic Responsibility

Maikalangu emphasized strengthening partnerships with security agencies and local vigilante groups to maintain peace and protect residents and investors. He urged residents to remain law-abiding and fulfil civic responsibilities, particularly the payment of legitimate taxes and levies, which he described as critical to funding development projects.

“Sustainability is a partnership. We provide the services, but residents must take ownership by protecting public assets such as transformers, solar streetlights and health centres from vandalism,” he said.

Governance and Accountability

Reaffirming his commitment to transparent and accountable governance, the AMAC chairman assured residents that his administration would work tirelessly to ensure every part of the council benefits from the promised “Massive Victory” in 2026.

“I wish every resident of this great council a peaceful, prosperous and productive 2026. This is our year to shine,” Maikalangu added.

 

Wike Pledges More Infrastructure, Peaceful Polls as FCT Marks Golden Jubilee

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has assured residents of accelerated development, improved service delivery, and a peaceful political climate as the Territory enters 2026 — a landmark year marking the 50th anniversary of the FCT’s creation.

Delivering his New Year message on Thursday, Wike expressed gratitude to residents for their cooperation and support in 2025, noting that the Administration had recorded significant progress through massive infrastructural projects and the resolution of pressing challenges.

> “As we usher in the dawn of a new year, on behalf of the FCT Administration, I extend my warmest greetings to the resilient and vibrant residents of the Federal Capital Territory,” Wike said.

Infrastructure and Service Delivery

The minister disclosed that the FCT Administration has laid the groundwork for projects across critical sectors including education, health, transportation, agriculture, security, and the judiciary. He said residents should expect the commissioning of rehabilitated schools, roads, bridges, health facilities, transportation hubs, judicial infrastructure, and security projects during the year.

Wike emphasized that 2026 would not only mark the third anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration but also serve as a showcase of tangible developments under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He highlighted that the FCT has witnessed unprecedented growth across Abuja Municipal Area Council, satellite towns, and rural communities such as Abaji, Kuje, and Kwali.

Political Climate

The minister described 2026 as politically significant, with Area Council elections scheduled in the six councils of the Territory in the coming weeks. He urged eligible voters to exercise their civic responsibilities wisely, assuring that the Administration would guarantee free, fair, and peaceful polls.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Wike noted that the FCT, as the nation’s capital, would host extensive political activities. He pledged that the Administration would continue to provide a safe and conducive environment for all lawful political engagements.

Golden Jubilee Celebration

Wike underscored the importance of the year as the golden jubilee of the FCT, celebrating 50 years of unity, peaceful coexistence, and national purpose. He called on residents to remain disciplined, diligent, and law-abiding as the Administration works toward achieving its development goals.

“As we move into this amazing year, let us do so with unshaken faith, unity of purpose and determination, which are essential for achieving peace, prosperity and progress in the FCT,” he said.

The minister concluded by wishing residents and their families a joyful, peaceful, and prosperous 2026, while praying for continued peace and development in the Federal Capital Territory.

Yobe Hisbah Warns Against Un-Islamic Festive Practices

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Damaturu, Yobe State – The Yobe State Hisbah Commission has issued a stern public notice cautioning residents against activities considered contrary to Sharia teachings, particularly during festive occasions such as weddings and Sallah celebrations.

In a statement dated December 31, 2025, the Commission outlined behaviours to avoid, including reckless driving during public festivities, physical interaction between men and women in vehicles such as Keke Napep and motorcycles, and inappropriate mingling at public gatherings.

The Commission further warned against “private conversations under the pretext of chatting between men and women, especially in ways that Sharia does not approve.”

The directive was signed by the State Commander of the Hisbah Commission, Dr. Muhammad Yawudi Kale, with the approval of the Chairman, Dr. Yahuza Hamza Abubakar.

According to the Commission, the measures are aimed at safeguarding morality and ensuring that festive celebrations do not compromise Islamic values. Parents and community leaders were urged to support enforcement efforts, with the Commission stressing that the rules are designed “to preserve the moral upbringing of our children.”

Bandits Attack Police Station in Ondo, Set Facility Ablaze

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Owo, Ondo State – Gunmen suspected to be bandits unleashed terror on Ipele community in Owo Local Council Area of Ondo State on Wednesday night, attacking the Divisional Police Station and setting it ablaze.

The assailants, numbering about 20, stormed the agrarian community around 10:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee their homes in panic. Eyewitnesses described the attackers as heavily armed and operating “in Rambo style,” overwhelming security operatives before razing the police facility.

“It was a terrorist attack. The attackers, numbering about 20, came into the Ipele community and began to shoot sporadically before attacking the Police Divisional Station. Many of us had to flee into the bush. The sounds from the attack were terrifying,” one resident recounted.

The motive behind the assault remains unclear as of press time. Residents said the incident was unprecedented in the community and left many in shock.

Security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Amotekun Corps, have since been deployed to restore calm.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Jimoh Abayomi, said details of the attack would be made available after proper assessment.

FG Links Bauchi Governor to $9.7m Terrorism Financing Case

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Abuja – The Federal Government has implicated Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, in a $9.7 million terrorism financing case involving the state’s Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three other officials.

On Wednesday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Adamu alongside Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The defendants face charges of conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and terrorism financing under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Justice Nwite ordered the defendants to be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Kuje pending the next hearing scheduled for January 5. All four pleaded not guilty to the charges.

EFCC counsel, Samuel Chime, requested a trial date to present witnesses and evidence, while defence lawyer Gordy Uche (SAN) applied for bail, arguing that Adamu’s detention had disrupted salary payments for over 60,000 Bauchi State workers. The EFCC confirmed receipt of the bail applications but filed a joint counter-affidavit opposing them.

According to the prosecution, Adamu and the other defendants allegedly conspired between January and May 2024 to provide $2.3 million to Bello Bodejo and his associates, with approvals purportedly granted by Governor Mohammed. The EFCC further alleged that $500,000 and $6.9 million were delivered in cash through a Bureau de Change operator, in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

One of the charges specifically accused Adamu, the Accountant-General of Bauchi State (now at large), and other civil servants of knowingly providing funds to finance terrorism, citing approvals from Governor Mohammed.

Reacting to the development, Governor Mohammed described the case as a political witch-hunt. Speaking in Bauchi after receiving a Safety Ambassador Award from the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), he said:

“I am just waking up to an accusation that I am being linked to terrorism as a governor and as the head of the opposition. My commissioner has been kept incarcerated and has not been released by the EFCC. Even with my immunity as a governor, my name was mentioned in a motion in a court of law in Nigeria. God is wonderful.”

The governor accused the APC-led federal government of using the EFCC and the courts to intimidate opposition leaders, warning that such actions could provoke resistance. He also criticised the government’s performance, alleging that despite huge revenues, Bauchi State had seen little improvement in infrastructure and basic services.

Mohammed vowed not to succumb to pressure to defect from the PDP, insisting that his refusal to join the ruling party should not make him a target. He further alleged that members of his family and government officials were being arrested and detained without evidence, describing the situation as “unacceptable.

e in a democracy.”

Adeboye Calls for Total Obedience, Warns of Remarkable 2026 Ahead of Divine Turnaround

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

REDEMPTION CITY — The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has charged Christians to embrace total obedience to God, declaring that a single divine intervention can rewrite a destiny “in one night” for those who fully align with His will.

The revered cleric delivered the message during the 2025 Cross Over Service at the Redemption City along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, focusing on the timeless sovereignty of God over human calendars and destinies.

Preaching from Revelation 1:8, where God declares Himself the Alpha and Omega, Pastor Adeboye emphasized that God operates outside the confines of time as humans measure it.

“God does not work by calendar years but by days,” he stated. “The Scripture teaches us to ‘number our days,’ not our years.”

Referencing Hebrews 13:8, he reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ remains unchanged “yesterday, today, and forever,” and that God has already ordained the beginning and end of every life, as illustrated in Jeremiah 1:4–5.

Provision Precedes Creation

Drawing from Genesis, Pastor Adeboye explained that God made full provision for humanity even before creating man, describing Him as the “all-sufficient” and “more-than-enough” God. He echoed the assurance in Jeremiah 29:11 that God’s plans for His people are of peace and a hopeful future.

The pastor issued a sobering warning against spiritual pretense, asking the faithful, “For how long do you think you can deceive God by pretending that your obedience is complete?”

He assured that God is willing to radically rearrange lives and circumstances for those who yield wholly to divine purpose, citing the overnight transformation of Abraham and Sarah’s destinies in Genesis 17.

Prophetic Alert for 2025

Looking ahead, Pastor Adeboye reiterated a earlier prophetic warning that 2025 would be a remarkable year marked by significant global events, including floods and fire outbreaks. He urged believers to remain spiritually vigilant and prayerful.

The service concluded with guided prayers, as worshippers were led to seek revelation about missed opportunities in 2025, discern divine lessons, and pray for the grace to seize every opening in 2026.

Pastor Adeboye also encouraged the congregation to pray for the removal of any “Jonah” — obstacles or disobedience — that could hinder progress, and to fully embrace their identity as children of God.

He ended with a firm assurance: God is ready to help every willing believer become all they were destined to be — provided they walk in sincere and complete obedience.

 

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