NAF Airstrikes Neutralize Five Terrorist Commanders, 35 Fighters in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully neutralized five prominent terrorist commanders and over 35 fighters in a precise airstrike carried out in Arina, Southern Tumbuns, Borno State. The operation, part of the ongoing Operation “Hadin Kai,” targeted a key terrorist stronghold on August 16, 2024.

In a statement released in Abuja, AVM Edward Gabkwet, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, confirmed the success of the mission. Among the high-profile commanders eliminated were Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (also known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.

The airstrike was a strategic effort to weaken the remaining terrorist elements in the Northeast while ensuring the safety of civilians and Nigerian troops. Gabkwet detailed that intelligence had tracked the movement of terrorists into the area, leading to confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions on August 12 and 15. These missions identified numerous terrorists and their hidden structures, which were subsequently destroyed in the coordinated airstrikes.

The operation not only resulted in the elimination of key terrorist figures but also led to the destruction of equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary. Gabkwet emphasized that this successful strike has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the remaining terrorist elements in the region.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in maintaining peace and security in the region,” Gabkwet concluded.

APC Dismisses PDP’s 2027 Plans, Says Jonathan Can’t Defeat Tinubu

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed speculations that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may field former President Goodluck Jonathan as its candidate in the 2027 presidential election, mocking the opposition for what it calls “desperation.”

Reports suggest that some northern elites and politicians, dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, are considering Jonathan as a potential challenger. However, APC’s National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, warned that if Jonathan were to accept the PDP nomination, he would face another defeat at the hands of Tinubu.

“For us to start talking about 2027 is not only premature but also a calculation that is doomed,” Ibrahim stated in an interview with Punch. “The APC defeated Jonathan when he was in power. Defeating him when he’s out of power will be a walkover. It is something that cannot even give the party a sleepless night.”

Ibrahim downplayed claims that the APC’s 2015 victory over Jonathan was due to former President Muhammadu Buhari’s widespread support. He emphasized that the party’s strength, not just Buhari’s following, was the key to their success, and he expressed confidence that the APC would prevail again under Tinubu’s leadership.

“Forget about the shenanigans on display now. When it’s time for the election, the party will package its candidate, and the people will support us,” Ibrahim added, noting that it is too early to speculate on the 2027 election.

Tekno Denies Reports of Collapsing On Stage in South Africa

Popular Nigerian singer and producer, Tekno, has debunked rumors claiming that he collapsed on stage during a performance. Earlier reports suggested that Tekno had a health scare while performing in South Africa, after a video surfaced online showing a man having a seizure.

However, Tekno, who is currently on a music tour, clarified on his Instagram page that he is not the person in the video and confirmed that he is in good health. He also stated that he is not in South Africa.

“Hey guys, I’m hale and hearty and not currently in South Africa. I hope whoever that was in the video is doing well and ok. Thank you, guys. Love you,” Tekno wrote.

Yinka Alaseyori Requests Prayers Amid Death Threats

Meanwhile, Nigerian gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori has appealed for prayers, revealing that she has been receiving death threats. In an emotional Instagram live session, Alaseyori shared that she has been facing online harassment for the past six months.

She addressed those wishing her harm, warning that they are inviting misfortune upon themselves. “I will not die untimely… Whoever wishes me death is counting the days of death for him or herself,” she stated. Alaseyori urged her supporters to pray for her, both when she is on stage and in their private moments.

Chinese Firm to Auction Seized Nigerian Properties on eBay to Recover $70 Million Debt

A Chinese investment group, Zhongshang Fucheng Industrial Investment Ltd, plans to auction two residential properties seized from Nigeria on eBay to recover up to $70 million from an arbitration award. The properties, located at 15 Aigburth Hall Road and Beech Lodge, 49 Calderstones Road in Liverpool, were seized in June 2024 after Nigeria failed to settle a 2021 arbitration ruling.

The seizure followed a December 2021 British court order that allowed Zhongshang to claim Nigerian assets in the UK to recoup the debt, which remains unpaid as of August 2024, with accumulating interest of two percent per month.

Court records show that Zhongshang was awarded $55.7 million, plus $9.4 million in interest and £2.86 million in legal costs, related to a dispute over a 2001 trade agreement between Nigeria and China. The conflict began when Ogun State revoked Zhongshang’s rights to a free trade zone in 2016, which the company claimed violated the treaty.

In 2018, Zhongshang initiated arbitration against Nigeria in the UK, accusing Nigerian federal agencies of acting on behalf of Ogun State without due process. The firm also alleged that two of its executives were expelled from Nigeria in 2016, with one reportedly detained and tortured by local police.

This development adds to Nigeria’s international legal troubles, coming shortly after the country narrowly avoided an $11 billion arbitration ruling in favor of Process & Industrial Developments Ltd (P&ID). That case was overturned after evidence of bribery and corruption emerged. The Zhongshang case, however, presents a more challenging situation, with enforcement orders granted by courts across Europe, including the UK, Belgium, and France, allowing for the seizure of Nigerian assets. Efforts to protect Nigeria through sovereign immunity have so far been unsuccessful, including in the United States.

A consultant for Zhongshang revealed that the firm is preparing to list the seized Liverpool properties on platforms like eBay, with an estimated value of $2.2 million.

“The decision to use online platforms like eBay aims to attract buyers quickly,” the consultant told Peoples Gazette.

The properties, not classified as diplomatic or consular assets, are vulnerable to seizure. It is unclear when Nigeria acquired them, but court filings indicate they were rented out to private tenants not connected to Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in the UK.

In a June 2024 ruling, Master Lisa Sullivan of the UK High Court’s King’s Bench Division confirmed Zhongshang’s claim, stating the properties were eligible for seizure under commercial purposes as per section 13(4) of the State Immunity Act.

Zhongshang has pledged to maintain transparency throughout the sales process and to keep the Nigerian public informed about the recovery.

Nigeria’s New Presidential Jet: Refurbished Airbus A330 Acquired from Saudi Arabia

Recent investigations reveal that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has acquired a refurbished Airbus A330 as the new presidential jet, sourced from Mid East Jet in Saudi Arabia. This aircraft recently facilitated the President’s trip to France, replacing the aging 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) purchased during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure.

According to LEADERSHIP, the Airbus A330 previously served with Middle East Jet from November 27, 2009, to May 25, 2012, before moving to Constellah Aviation and then returning to Mid East Jet in September 2014, ultimately being sold to Nigeria.

The federal government officially received the aircraft on Sunday, August 18, 2024. Registered as 5N-FGA with HEX CODE 06430C, the plane was delivered from a factory in France.

An aviation security expert, who chose to remain anonymous, raised concerns about the maintenance costs of the older Airbus A330, suggesting that a more modern, fuel-efficient Boeing might have been a better choice for cost-effectiveness and ease of maintenance in Nigeria.

The presidency countered these concerns, stating that the jet was acquired at a price below market value, resulting in considerable savings on maintenance and fuel costs, potentially saving millions annually. This decision followed a parliamentary investigation that highlighted safety and cost concerns related to the old B737-700(BBJ) after a malfunction during a trip to Saudi Arabia.

The Nigerian Senate’s security and intelligence committee had recommended a new aircraft to minimize downtime and operational expenses. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted that the new jet boasts state-of-the-art avionics, a customized interior, and advanced communication systems.

Aviation workers halt planned protest over revenue slash

Aviation workers in Nigeria have called off their planned protest against the Federal Government’s decision to demand a 50% revenue collection from aviation agencies. The strike, which was scheduled for today, was halted following a government directive aimed at easing tensions within the sector.

Nnadi Hector, Secretary of the Joint Aviation Trade Unions Forum, explained that the decision to suspend the protest came after the government’s intervention. He highlighted that the protest was intended to be a peaceful demonstration to draw attention to the challenges faced by the aviation industry.

Hector mentioned that President Bola Tinubu intervened while he was out of the country, ordering a reduction of the revenue deduction from 50% to 20%. He viewed this move as a positive step toward resolving the workers’ concerns.

The planned protest was initially announced in response to the government’s continued deduction of 50% from the internally generated revenue of major aviation agencies. The unions had previously warned of a nationwide strike starting on August 21, 2024, to address what they described as a threat to the survival of the aviation industry.

PFA Premier League Team of the Year 2023/24

The 2023/24 Premier League season has seen some remarkable performances, and the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has honored the top players by selecting the PFA Premier League Team of the Year. The team features a mix of defensive strength, midfield brilliance, and attacking firepower, highlighting the best talents from the season.

PFA Premier League Team of the Year 2023/24:

  • Goalkeeper:
  • David Raya (Arsenal)
  • Defenders:
  • Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
  • William Saliba (Arsenal)
  • Gabriel (Arsenal)
  • Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
  • Midfielders:
  • Rodri (Manchester City)
  • Declan Rice (Arsenal)
  • Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
  • Forwards:
  • Phil Foden (Manchester City)
  • Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
  • Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

PFA Awards Night Winners:

  • Men’s Player of the Year: Phil Foden (Manchester City)
  • Women’s Player of the Year: Bunny Shaw (Manchester City)
  • Men’s Young Player of the Year: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
  • Women’s Young Player of the Year: Grace Clinton (Manchester United, on loan at Spurs)
  • Championship Player of the Year: Crysencio Summerville (Leeds United)
  • League One Player of the Year: Alfie May (Charlton Athletic)
  • League Two Player of the Year: Jodi Jones (Notts County)

PFA WSL Team of the Season 2023/24:

  • Goalkeeper:
  • Khiara Keating (Manchester City)
  • Defenders:
  • Laia Aleixandri (Manchester City)
  • Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
  • Alex Greenwood (Manchester City)
  • Niamh Charles (Chelsea)
  • Midfielders:
  • Yui Hasegawa (Manchester City)
  • Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea)
  • Grace Clinton (Tottenham Hotspur)
  • Forwards:
  • Lauren James (Chelsea)
  • Bunny Shaw (Manchester City)
  • Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)

PFA Championship Team of the Season 2023/24:

  • Goalkeeper:
  • Illan Meslier (Leeds United)
  • Defenders:
  • Kyle Walker-Peters (Southampton)
  • Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United)
  • Jannik Vestergaard (Leicester City)
  • Leif Davis (Ipswich Town)
  • Midfielders:
  • Archie Gray (Leeds United)
  • Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Leicester City)
  • Gabriel Sara (Norwich City)
  • Forwards:
  • Crysencio Summerville (Leeds United)
  • Sammie Szmodics (Blackburn Rovers)
  • Adam Armstrong (Southampton)

PFA League One Team of the Season 2023/24:

  • Goalkeeper:
  • Will Norris (Portsmouth)
  • Defenders:
  • Eiran Cashin (Derby County)
  • Ronnie Edwards (Peterborough United)
  • Ricardo Almeida Santos (Bolton Wanderers)
  • Conor Shaughnessy (Portsmouth)
  • Midfielders:
  • Marlon Pack (Portsmouth)
  • Josh Sheehan (Bolton Wanderers)
  • Cameron Brannagan (Oxford United)
  • Forwards:
  • Alfie May (Charlton Athletic)
  • Colby Bishop (Portsmouth)
  • Ephron Mason-Clark (Peterborough United)

PFA League Two Team of the Season 2023/24:

  • Goalkeeper:
  • Ben Hinchliffe (Stockport County)
  • Defenders:
  • Aiden Flint (Mansfield Town)
  • Fraser Horsfall (Stockport County)
  • Mikey Demetriou (Crewe Alexandra)
  • Ibou Touray (Stockport County)
  • Midfielders:
  • Elliott Lee (Wrexham)
  • Davis Keillor-Dunn (Mansfield Town)
  • Daniel Crowley (Notts County)
  • Forwards:
  • Macaulay Langstaff (Notts County)
  • Paul Mullin (Wrexham)
  • Jodi Jones (Notts County)

These selections celebrate the best players from each league, highlighting their contributions to their respective teams and their impact on the season.

Obama Declares US Ready for Kamala Harris Presidency at Democratic National Convention

Former US President Barack Obama made a powerful endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, declaring that the United States is ready for her to take on the presidency. Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, Obama stated that “the torch has been passed” and praised Harris as a leader who has spent her life fighting for the voiceless.

“Kamala Harris is ready for the job. This is a person who has spent her life fighting for people who need a voice,” Obama said, emphasizing her readiness to serve as president. The crowd echoed his sentiments with chants of “Yes she can,” a nod to Obama’s famous “Yes we can” campaign slogan.

Obama’s endorsement of Harris came amid a buoyant atmosphere at the DNC, where Democratic leaders rallied around Harris as the party’s presidential nominee for the upcoming election. Harris is set to face off against former President Donald Trump, whom Obama described as “dangerous.”

Former First Lady Michelle Obama also spoke at the convention, praising Harris and declaring that “something magically wonderful is in the air.” She described the sense of hope and optimism surrounding Harris’s candidacy, likening it to the energy of her husband’s historic 2008 campaign.

The convention marked a significant moment for the Democratic Party, with Harris polling strongly and the party united behind her. President Joe Biden, who recently ended his bid for reelection and endorsed Harris, delivered an emotional speech, passing the torch to his vice president. Biden, who described serving as president as the “honor of my lifetime,” was celebrated by Obama as an “outstanding president” who had defended democracy during challenging times.

As the DNC unfolded, comparisons were drawn between Harris’s campaign and Obama’s groundbreaking 2008 run, with Democrats expressing confidence in their ability to defeat Trump in the November election. Harris, who addressed delegates via video link from Milwaukee, expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the journey ahead.

Meanwhile, Trump has continued his attacks on Harris, falsely accusing her of being “anti-police” and linking her to what he called a “crime wave.” Despite these attacks, Harris has drawn large crowds and energized the Democratic base, underscoring her potential to lead the party to victory.

The DNC’s symbolic nomination of Harris as their candidate sets the stage for a fiercely contested election, with Democrats rallying around her as the leader who can carry forward their vision for the future.

Northern Leaders Plan Strategic Summit Ahead of 2027 Elections

August 21, 2024 – Prominent leaders from northern Nigeria are gearing up for a crucial summit aimed at revitalizing the region’s political and economic influence ahead of the 2027 elections.

The announcement came on Tuesday during a meeting of the League of Northern Democrats (LND) in Abuja. The group, composed of former governors, senators, and other influential figures from the North, is focused on addressing key issues affecting the region, including political direction, economic growth, and security concerns. The summit is scheduled to take place in Kaduna.

This move comes in the wake of the 2023 general elections, which saw the presidency shift to the southern region after eight years under former President Muhammadu Buhari, a northerner. The two major southern candidates in the election were Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, while the People’s Democratic Party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar, hailed from the North.

Vice President Kashim Shettima recently indicated that the North plans to convene a high-level meeting of stakeholders, including governors, politicians, business executives, and traditional leaders, to discuss the region’s challenges. Shettima attributed the violence seen during recent protests in the North to leadership failures.

Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, the Protem Chairman of the LND and former governor of Kano State, stated that the summit in Kaduna will serve as a platform for discussing the North’s political future, economic development, and security challenges. He emphasized that the LND’s mission is not tied to any specific political party or the 2027 elections but is focused on long-term solutions for the region.

In a communiqué signed by the LND convener, Umar Ardo, and interim secretary, Emmanuel Jime, the group stressed its commitment to unifying the North and reestablishing its dominance in national politics. The LND plans to engage a wide range of northern stakeholders, including former heads of state, vice presidents, Senate presidents, Speakers of the House of Representatives, and security chiefs, to rally support for their initiative.

“The LND resolved to prioritize the political unity of Northern Nigeria. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity. This unity will serve as the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape,” the communiqué stated.

Federal Government Forms 10-Member Committee for Local Government Autonomy Enforcement

August 21, 2024 – The Federal Government has officially launched a 10-member inter-ministerial committee tasked with enforcing the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy in Nigeria.

On July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court granted autonomy to local governments across the nation. A seven-member panel of the apex court, led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, ruled that all 774 local government councils in Nigeria should have the authority to manage their own funds.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Federal Government has formed this committee to implement the court’s judgment.

“The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to enforce the Supreme Court judgment delivered on July 11, 2024, granting financial autonomy to Local Governments in Nigeria,” Imohiosen stated.

The committee will be chaired by SGF George Akume. Key members include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, and the Accountant General of the Federation. Additional members are the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, along with representatives from state governors and local governments.

The primary objective of this committee is to ensure that local governments across Nigeria enjoy full autonomy, allowing them to operate independently without interference from state governments. This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to upholding the Constitution, which recognizes local governments as the third tier of government in the country.