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UFO Ghana Decries Kwara Killings, Links Terrorism to Governance Failures in Africa

Maryam Aminu

The Universal Friendship Organisation (UFO) Ghana has expressed strong condemnation over the deadly terrorist attacks on Woro and Nuku communities in Kwara State, Nigeria, describing the incident as a painful reminder of Africa’s unresolved security and governance challenges.

In a statement released from Accra on February 5, 2026, the organisation said the killings, which claimed at least 162 lives, highlight the devastating consequences of violent extremism on rural and defenceless populations. The attacks were reportedly carried out by the Lakurawa group, an affiliate of the Islamic State.

UFO Ghana conveyed its sympathy to the bereaved families and the Nigerian people, noting that the scale of destruction reflects a broader regional crisis that demands collective responsibility rather than isolated responses.
Beyond condemning the violence, the organisation drew attention to what it described as structural weaknesses in governance across parts of Africa, particularly the “winner-takes-all” political culture, which it said continues to breed exclusion, resentment, and instability.

The group further identified corruption as a recurring factor worsening insecurity, stressing that leadership anchored on transparency and accountability remains critical to breaking the cycle of violence. It added that governance must be people-centred, with security and social welfare treated as core priorities rather than afterthoughts.

Expressing concern over the displacement of residents and destruction of livelihoods caused by the attacks, UFO Ghana urged the international community to step up support for Nigeria through coordinated humanitarian assistance and strategic security partnerships.

The organisation also cautioned against the use of violence by any group as a means of expressing grievances, insisting that peaceful engagement and dialogue remain the only sustainable paths to uconflict resolution.

As part of its proposals, UFO Ghana called for stronger collaboration between ECOWAS and the African Union to confront terrorism and banditry, while advocating for community-driven security initiatives that empower local populations.

It also urged Nigerian authorities to intensify cybersecurity efforts to address emerging threats linked to online radicalisation and cyber-enabled terrorism.

The statement was jointly signed by the President of UFO Ghana, Mr. Samuel Adobah, and the organisation’s Global Policy Analyst, Mr. Richil Mawuenyega.

Toxic Politics, Online Abuse Gradually Tearing Igala Nation Apart – Ataguba

Maryam Aminu

Alarmed by rising political intolerance and toxic online conduct, the National Leader of the Ukomu Igala Organisation, Maj. Gen. James Alilu Ataguba (retd.), has warned that persistent verbal attacks, blind political loyalty, and violence are steadily weakening the cohesion and future of the Igala nation.

Speaking on Friday in Abuja at a dinner meeting with Igala social media influencers, the retired general cautioned youths and online commentators from Kogi East against turning social media into a battlefield of insults, urging them instead to embrace responsible political engagement and hold public office holders accountable.

Ataguba observed that political disagreements among Igala people have increasingly spilled into the digital space, where abuse and name-calling now dominate conversations that should focus on ideas, policies and development. He warned that such conduct was gradually damaging communal bonds and eroding shared values.

He noted that constant online attacks, often carried out in defence of political figures, leave lasting consequences on the individuals involved, stressing that behaviour displayed on social media shapes public perception and can stain personal and family reputations.

The Igala leader cautioned supporters against unquestioning loyalty to politicians, pointing out that political leaders frequently mend fences after elections, while their followers continue to harbour bitterness and division.

He urged youths to critically assess their involvement in political disputes rather than allowing themselves to be used as tools of conflict.

Ataguba also spoke strongly against political violence, recalling past incidents in which innocent lives were lost during periods of unrest. He described such acts as unacceptable in a democratic society, insisting that political competition must never be driven by bloodshed, intimidation or electoral malpractice.

According to him, Nigeria’s ongoing development challenges are closely linked to leadership failures, many of which stem from voters’ willingness to support candidates lacking competence and integrity. He urged citizens to make informed choices based on character, capacity and credibility rather than sentiment or financial inducement.

The retired general further charged social media influencers to act as voices of conscience by demanding transparency and accountability from leaders. He encouraged them to speak honestly, even when faced with pressure or material incentives to compromise their principles.

He expressed concern that internal divisions and poor political judgment were weakening the Igala nation, calling on sons and daughters of the ethnic group to prioritise unity, peaceful engagement and collective progress over personal or partisan interests.

Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa Umar-Eluma

In her remarks, former National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa Umar-Eluma, also criticised the rising trend of hostility among Igala youths on social media platforms.

She noted that online conversations have increasingly shifted from constructive debate to personal attacks, a development she said does little to advance unity or meaningful socio-political development.

Umar-Eluma explained that the dinner meeting was organised to promote dialogue, reflection and mutual understanding among young people, emphasising that the initiative was designed to encourage healing and cooperation rather than punishment.

She urged Igala youths to channel their energy into respectful engagement and conversations capable of strengthening unity and advancing the collective interests of the Igala nation.

FG Launches Emergency Food Distribution In Borno To Cushion Humanitarian Crisis

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has commenced the distribution of Presidential Emergency Food and Nutrition Items in Borno State as part of a nationwide relief intervention aimed at supporting vulnerable households affected by conflict, displacement and economic hardship.

The initiative was flagged off on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Ramat Square, Maiduguri, by the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, who described the intervention as a decisive step towards saving lives, stabilising nutrition and restoring hope among affected populations.

Dr. Doro explained that the emergency food and nutrition intervention covers 10 northern states- Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Benue, Niger, Plateau, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi reflecting the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to food security, humanitarian protection and nutrition stabilisation.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government has approved and mobilised substantial quantities of food and nutrition items nationwide, including rice, beans, millet, maize, groundnut oil, palm oil, tom brown, tomato paste, seasoning cubes, salt and assorted essential medicines.

He disclosed that Borno State has been allocated 8,565 bags each of millet, rice and maize; 8,565 units of groundnut oil; 1,429 cartons of palm oil; 8,565 units of tom brown; 171 cartons of tomato paste; 611 cartons of seasoning cubes; 107 bags of salt, as well as assorted essential medicines, noting that the allocation was guided by humanitarian needs and the number of vulnerable households in the state.

Commending the resilience of the people of Borno, Dr. Doro described the intervention as more than food support, saying it represents dignity, sustenance and renewed hope.

He also applauded security agencies, development partners, community leaders and frontline workers for their sustained support to humanitarian efforts in the state, while urging stakeholders to collaborate closely to ensure a successful distribution.

The Minister assured that the distribution process would be closely monitored to guarantee transparency and ensure that the relief items reach the intended beneficiaries, urging recipients to utilise the items judiciously, particularly in caring for children, pregnant women and the elderly.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, said the exercise marked a significant milestone in addressing food insecurity among the most vulnerable populations, assuring that the Ministry would uphold transparency, fairness and accountability throughout the distribution process.

In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Alhaji (Dr) Umar Usman Kadafur, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the intervention, describing it as a timely and compassionate response to the humanitarian and nutritional challenges confronting vulnerable households in the state.

Alhaji Kadafur emphasised that food security is a moral imperative and a foundation for sustainable peace and development, assuring that the Borno State Government would ensure a transparent and equitable distribution of the relief items across the state.

He further pledged the state’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the exercise reaches all intended beneficiaries across the local government areas of the state.

The distribution exercise is expected to cover all local government areas in Borno State.

Dignitaries at the event included the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani; Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Hon. Ahmed Tijani; state commissioners, directors from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and representatives of development partners.

ICPC: Redefining Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Onslaught

In a country where corruption has long threatened and is still threatening development, weakened institutions and eroded public trust, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has steadily emerged as a symbol of resolve, reform and renewed hope. Far from the cynicism that often trails anti-corruption rhetoric, the Commission’s recent years have been marked by tangible actions, institutional innovation and a widening impact across Nigeria’s governance landscape.

Established in 2000, ICPC was created to confront corruption in public life, investigate related offences and educate citizens on the dangers corruption poses to national growth. For many years, public perception of anti-corruption agencies oscillated between expectation and disappointment. Today, however, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission is increasingly being recognised for moving beyond enforcement alone, adopting a more comprehensive and preventive approach that strikes at the roots of corruption.

One of the Commission’s most formidable strides has been its deliberate shift towards systemic prevention. Through its Corruption Risk Assessment framework, ICPC has helped Ministries, Departments and Agencies identify institutional weaknesses that enable graft. Rather than waiting for corruption to occur, the Commission now works with public institutions to redesign processes, close loopholes and entrench transparency. This preventive strategy has not only reduced financial leakages in several MDAs but promoted a culture of accountability within the public service.

Complementing this is the Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard, a pioneering tool that measures how well public institutions adhere to ethical standards. By ranking MDAs and publishing outcomes, ICPC has introduced a healthy sense of competition and public accountability into governance. Institutions are now incentivised to improve internal controls, knowing that integrity performance is being monitored and evaluated.

In the area of enforcement, the Commission has recorded notable successes. High-profile investigations, arrests and prosecutions have reinforced the message that no office is above the law. The recovery of misappropriated public funds and assets has helped return critical resources to government coffers, supporting development priorities. Importantly, ICPC’s prosecutions are increasingly built on meticulous investigation and inter-agency collaboration, improving conviction rates and strengthening judicial outcomes.

Another remarkable stride is ICPC’s engagement with the education sector. Through the establishment of Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units and Integrity Clubs in schools and tertiary institutions, the Commission is investing in Nigeria’s future. By teaching young Nigerians the values of honesty, patriotism and civic responsibility, ICPC is nurturing a generation that sees corruption not as a norm to be managed, but as a vice to be rejected. This long-term strategy recognises that sustainable change begins with mindset reorientation.

The Commission’s outreach efforts have also expanded significantly. From town hall meetings and media engagements to partnerships with civil society organisations and traditional institutions, ICPC has broadened citizens participation in the anti-corruption fight. These engagements have improved public awareness, encouraged whistle-blowing and strengthened community ownership of integrity initiatives. Corruption is no longer framed solely as a government problem but as a collective national challenge requiring collective action.

Digital innovation has further enhanced ICPC’s effectiveness. By leveraging technology for reporting, investigation and data analysis, the Commission has improved efficiency and reduced bureaucratic delays. Digital platforms now enable citizens to report corruption more easily, anonymously and securely, fostering trust and responsiveness. This modernization aligns the Commission with global best practices in anti-corruption governance.

Equally significant is Commission’s growing role in promoting accountability in constituency projects and public procurement. Through monitoring and verification exercises, the Commission has exposed abandoned, inflated or poorly executed projects across the country. These interventions have compelled corrective action, improved project delivery and reinforced the principle that public funds must translate into real benefits for citizens.

Challenges, ofcourse, remain. Corruption is deeply entrenched, adaptive and often politically sensitive. Resource constraints, legal bottlenecks and public skepticism still test the resilience of anti-corruption institutions. Yet, ICPC’s evolving strategies demonstrates an understanding that fighting corruption is not a sprint, but a sustained marathon requiring consistency, courage and collaboration.

What sets the ICPC apart in recent times is its balanced approach: firm enforcement combined with prevention, education and partnership. This multidimensional strategy has helped reposition the Commission from a reactive agency to a proactive institution shaping governance standards. It is a shift that aligns with Nigeria’s broader aspirations for transparency, economic growth and democratic consolidation.

As Nigeria continues its journey towards accountable governance, the strides made by the ICPC deserve recognition and support. The Commission’s work underscores a simple but powerful truth: corruption can be confronted when institutions are empowered, citizens are engaged and integrity is treated as a national value rather than a slogan.

In strengthening systems, prosecuting offenders and shaping values, the ICPC is not merely fighting corruption; it is helping to redefine the Nigerian state itself, one where public office is a trust, not a privilege, and where national development is driven by integrity.

Omini Oden (ACPA, FCAI)
Media and Corporate Communications Expert
ominioden@gmail.com

Adeleke, Sultan, Ooni To Inaugurate Minaret University Ikirun- UNESCO Laureate

According to information that was received from The First African UNESCO Laureate, Founding Member Board of Trustees of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria and World Records Holder of different organizations such as Noble Book of World Records and others world wide who is the Pioneer Dean Faculty of Science and Computing of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria in person of Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as stated below

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Jackson Adeleke, the Sultan of Sokoto and President, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, are scheduled to inaugurate the commencement of academic session and investiture of the pioneer Vice Chancellor for The Minaret University Ikirun , Osun state South West Nigeria.

According to a release signed by The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Africa Chairman Board of Trustees of Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council an official Partner of United Nations and other organizations worldwide, the ceremonies would hold on the 5th of February, 2026 at the Mini Campus site of the faith-based university owned by the global Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

The Amir, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria and Chancellor of Minaret University, Barrister Alatoye Azeez Folorunso, will officially present the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abdul Rahman Abdullah to the academic and host community in Ikirun.

Minaret University Ikirun is a private institution located in Osun State, Nigeria, offering various undergraduate programs. The university is owned by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria (AMJN) and was approved by the Federal Government and the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2025.

Faculties and Programs:

Faculty of Science & Computing:
- Data Science
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
Faculty of Management & Social Sciences:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Business Administration
- Marketing
- Logistics & Supply Chain Management

Admission Requirements:

Minimum UTME Score: 150
Five (5) O’Level Credits (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) in relevant subjects
Appropriate JAMB subject combination

The university’s vision is to pursue moral and intellectual development for creativity, entrepreneurship, adaptability, and survival of the university graduate.

Who is Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu? He is a Nigerian academic of international repute, renowned for his outstanding contributions to education. As the First African UNESCO Laureate, he has received numerous accolades, including the Noble Book of World Records, the PHILANTHROPIST Award (2023), the Global ICON Award (2023), and the Outstanding Global Achievements Award (2023). Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is a World Records Holder in various global organizations. Professor Aremu is no stranger to global recognition, having previously set multiple world records acknowledged by bodies such as the Netaji World Records, the International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, England, and the Asian Bengal Book of Records for his contributions to education and global development.

“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has held several leadership roles, including International Chairman, Board of Trustees of Africa Information Technology Consultancy, and Chief Editor, Technoarete Transactions on Application ICT in Education. As a distinguished academic, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has been appointed to various academic positions, including Chairman and Member of the Accreditation Panel of some Nigerian Universities appointed by the National Universities Commission, Abuja, Nigeria, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Universities and Organizations worldwide.

Rivers Politics: Wike Warned Against Parading Self As APC leader in Rivers

The Leadership Awareness & Transparency Network (LATNET) has issued a strong warning to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urging him to immediately cease parading himself as the leader or controller of Rivers State amid the ongoing political crisis.

In a press statement signed and released today, February 4, 2026, by Hon. Usman Buhari Ali Gwandu, Ph.D
National Convener LATNET described Wike’s recent declaration at a civic reception in Ogu, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area—that “We’re in charge” and supporters should “go home and sleep very well with your two eyes closed”—as inflammatory, divisive, and inconsistent with democratic principles, constitutional order, and respect for elected leadership.

The group emphasized that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains the duly elected and legitimate executive governor of Rivers State, vested with full constitutional authority over the state’s affairs. LATNET condemned any attempt by unelected individuals or former officeholders to undermine the governor’s authority or project parallel control, warning that such actions risk escalating tensions, eroding public confidence in institutions, and potentially destabilizing the peace in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region.

Key excerpts from the statement:

“The Leadership Awareness & Transparency Network (LATNET) views with serious concern the continued attempts by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to assert undue influence and claim ownership over Rivers State governance. His public assertion of being ‘in charge’—made in the context of a lingering supremacy battle with Governor Siminalayi Fubara—represents a dangerous affront to democracy and the rule of law.

Rivers State is not a personal fiefdom but a constitutional entity where power derives from the people through free and fair elections. Governor Fubara, despite political challenges including past suspensions, emergency rule interventions, impeachment threats, and party defections, holds the mandate of the electorate until the end of his term.

We call on Hon. Nyesom Wike to respect the separation of powers, refrain from actions or statements that suggest he exercises control outside his official role as FCT Minister, and allow democratic institutions to function without interference. True leadership promotes unity, transparency, and accountability—not division or personal dominance.

LATNET urges all stakeholders, including political allies, ethnic nationalities, and supporters, to prioritize dialogue, legality, and the greater good of Rivers people over partisan ambitions. We stand ready to advocate for peaceful resolution and institutional integrity in Rivers State and across Nigeria.”

The statement was jointly signed by:

Hon. Usman Buhari Ali Gwandu, Ph.D
National Convener
08067831800

Media Contact:
Email: latnetnigeria@gmail.com

LATNET is a non-partisan advocacy network committed to promoting ethical leadership, good governance, transparency, and accountability in public affairs across Nigeria.

CODE Faults Senate’s Electoral Act Amendments, Warns Against Transparency Gaps Ahead Of 2027 Polls

Maryam Aminu

Civil society organisation, Connected Development (CODE), has raised concerns over key decisions taken by the Nigerian Senate on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026, warning that the failure to mandate real-time electronic transmission of election results could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement signed by Nankpak Cirfat, Communications Officer, CODE described the Senate’s refusal to legally compel the real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units as a major setback for transparency, accountability, and electoral credibility.

While acknowledging the passage of some amendments aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral framework, the organisation maintained that leaving electronic transmission to discretion preserves loopholes that have historically enabled manipulation during result collation and transmission.

CODE also criticised the Senate’s decision to compress key electoral timelines, including the reduction of the notice period for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish election notices from 360 days to 180 days, as well as the shortening of deadlines for political parties to submit candidate lists.

According to the organisation, the compressed timelines could weaken election logistics, voter education, disability access planning, and effective oversight by civil society organisations and the media.

The group further noted that although lawmakers increased fines for electoral offences such as vote buying, they rejected proposals for stiffer penalties, retaining two-year imprisonment terms and fines as the primary sanctions.

It added that while the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was retained, the rejection of electronically generated voter identification leaves the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) as the sole valid means of identification at polling units, despite persistent challenges with access and replacement.

Commenting on the development, Acting Chief Executive of CODE, Hyeladzira James Mshelia, warned that Nigeria’s electoral history shows that the gravest threats to credible elections often occur during result collation and transmission.
“When transparency is left to discretion, democracy is left to chance. Failing to mandate electronic transmission of results and compressing critical timelines without strengthening accountability weakens, rather than fortifies, Nigeria’s electoral integrity,” Mshelia said.

CODE urged the National Assembly to use the harmonisation process with the House of Representatives to explicitly mandate real-time electronic transmission of polling unit results, strengthen safeguards against manipulation, revisit compressed timelines, and ensure electoral offences attract penalties strong enough to deter abuse.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with citizens, the media, civil society partners, and reform-minded legislators to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and ensure that every vote including those of marginalised communities not only counts, but is seen to count.

Kaduna LG Chairmen Warned: No Loans Without Fiscal Compliance Certificate

Maryam Aminu

Local government autonomy in Kaduna State came under sharp fiscal scrutiny as the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) issued a stern warning to all 23 Local Government Chairmen against contracting loans without due legal clearance, declaring such actions unlawful and punishable under Nigerian law.

Delivering the message at the KADSFREC 1.0 workshop in Kaduna, the Director of Legal Services, Investigation and Enforcement at the FRC, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, cautioned that no local government is permitted to borrow from banks or financial institutions without first obtaining a Certificate of Proof of Compliance (POC) from the Commission, in line with Section 45 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

Barrister Abana, who represented the Executive Chairman of the FRC, Victor Muruako, Esq., stressed that borrowing at any tier of government is strictly limited to capital expenditure and human development projects, including infrastructure.

He warned that financial institutions that lend in violation of the Act also risk legal sanctions, while public officers who flout the law expose themselves to serious consequences.

The workshop, held at the Fifth Chukker Polo & Golf Resort along the Kaduna-Jos Road, was organised by the Kaduna State Fiscal Responsibility Commission (KADSFRC) in collaboration with the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, under the theme “Strengthening Fiscal Responsibility and Public Financial Management Practices Across the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.”

In one of the strongest admonitions of the session, Barrister Abana condemned the spending of public funds without budgetary appropriation, branding the practice “fiscal haram.”

He cautioned council chairmen against indiscriminate disbursement of public funds to political loyalists, payroll inflation, or spending outside approved budgets.
“Every kobo spent must have value for money. Public resources must be planned, budgeted for, properly appropriated and disbursed towards projects that positively impact the lives of the people,” he said.

He urged local government leaders to embrace transparency, accountability and prudence, noting that fiscal indiscipline today mortgages the future of coming generations.

He also called on councils to take advantage of the FRC’s technical support to develop sound Fiscal Responsibility Bye-Laws that would entrench sustainable financial governance at the grassroots.

Barrister Abana commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Dr. Uba Sani, CON, FNIQS, for his consistent support for transparency-driven reforms, noting that the Governor’s commitment has strengthened accountability institutions across the state.

He also praised the Chairman of KADSFRC, Hon. Sani Rabiu Bako, FNIQS, RQS, for his visionary leadership, urging him to expand the initiative to cover the entire North-West region.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Hon. Bako described the workshop as a vital platform for improving public financial management at the local government level.

He lauded the collaboration of key accountability agencies, including the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity.

According to him, the initiative was designed to ensure that fiscal responsibility principles value for money, transparency and accountability are fully understood and implemented where governance most directly affects citizens.

Declaring the workshop open, Governor Uba Sani condemned financial mismanagement and embezzlement of public funds, calling on elected officials and political appointees to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and institutional reforms, stressing that public trust can only thrive when government resources are managed efficiently and in the best interest of the people.

The workshop also featured technical presentations from participating agencies on fiscal responsibility, ethical governance, procurement processes and anti-corruption strategies, reinforcing the urgency of accountable financial management across all levels of government.

Oxfam Welcomes Back Tijani Ahmed Hamza As Country Director, Strengthening Leadership For Nigeria Operations

Maryam Aminu

Oxfam International has announced the reappointment of Tijani Ahmed Hamza as its Country Director in Nigeria, marking a strategic return of one of the organisation’s most experienced and trusted leaders to steer its country operations.

According to information shared on the organisation’s official social media platforms welcoming his return, Oxfam described Tijani as “a key part of our story,” noting that he previously served as Interim Country Director during two critical transition periods in 2021 and again across 2023 and 2024, providing steady leadership and institutional continuity.

Tijani Ahmed Hamza is rejoining Oxfam International with a distinguished professional history spanning over two decades with the organisation and its affiliates. His journey began in 2001 with IBIS (now Oxfam Denmark), where he spent thirteen years in various senior leadership roles. These included serving as Country Director for Sierra Leone from 2009 to 2014 and later as Country Director for Ghana until 2016. He subsequently assumed the role of Country Director for Oxfam International in Ghana, a position he held from 2016 to 2024.

With nearly thirty years of experience in non-profit programming and leadership, Tijani brings deep expertise in natural resource governance, social and fiscal policy, climate change, food security, and agriculture. Beyond his extensive tenure with Oxfam, he has also held leadership roles at ActionAid and most recently served as Anglophone Programme Lead at the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL), where he oversaw country interventions across Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and Ethiopia.

A respected thought leader and scholar, Tijani is a Ford Foundation/Indiana University Fellow in African NGO Leadership and an active researcher whose work focuses on organizational development, philanthropy, and the evolution of civil society in Africa.

Tijani Ahmed Hamza, Country Director Oxfam Nigeria

He is also widely recognised as a strong advocate and champion for local civil society organisations, with a long-standing commitment to strengthening indigenous leadership and institutional sustainability.

Further underscoring his dedication to the sector, Tijani designed a specialised executive leadership and succession planning programme for African civil society leaders, developed in partnership with the Association for Research on Civil Society in Africa. He is currently in the final phase of his Doctorate, which examines executive NGO leadership transitions and their broader implications for civic space across the continent.

Oxfam expressed confidence that Tijani’s return as Country Director will deepen the organisation’s impact in Nigeria, leveraging his institutional memory, policy expertise, and strong understanding of the local context.

The organisation has called on partners, stakeholders, and the public to join in welcoming Tijani Ahmed Hamza back to the Nigeria team, as he takes on the responsibility of advancing Oxfam’s mission of social justice, equity, and inclusive development.

January Blitz: Nigerian Military Neutralises Terrorists, Frees 284 Hostages, Dismantles Criminal Networks Nationwide

Emmanuel Daudu

In what officials describe as one of the most sweeping nationwide security offensives in recent months, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded decisive gains across all theatres of operation in January 2026 neutralising terrorists, dismantling criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims and crippling illegal oil operations.

The Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael Onoja, laid out the scale of the month-long campaign on Friday in Abuja, saying the operations underscored the military’s resolve to secure lives, property and critical national assets despite extremely challenging conditions.

Addressing journalists, Onoja said the briefing formed part of the AFN’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sustained engagement with the media and the Nigerian public.

He described the media as a critical partner in national security, noting that accurate and responsible reporting continues to strengthen public confidence and collective security efforts.

According to the DDMO, troops across the country neutralised several terrorists during the period, arrested 452 suspected terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements, rescued 284 kidnapped victims and received the surrender of 124 terrorists and their family members.

A major highlight of the January operations was the sustained crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.

Onoja disclosed that troops recovered 210,300 litres of stolen crude oil, 66,725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil, 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosine and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, while destroying 53 illegal refining sites.

In the North East, troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI maintained relentless pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists through coordinated ground, air and hybrid operations, supported by local security groups.

Between January 1 and 29, operations across Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States led to the neutralisation of scores of terrorists, the arrest of 74 suspects and the rescue of 40 kidnapped victims. Forty-four terrorists and their family members also surrendered, while five top commanders and three lieutenants were eliminated in fierce engagements.

Further operations in Gwoza, Damboa, Mobbar, Askira Uba and Konduga Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as Michika in Adamawa and Damaturu in Yobe, resulted in additional arrests, rescues and weapons recovery.

Onoja confirmed that two notorious terrorist commanders, Basulhu and Ubaida, were killed alongside several fighters during a major encounter at the Mandara Mountains on January 22.
Air operations proved decisive, with precision strikes carried out in the Northern Tumbus and the Timbuktu Triangle known strongholds of senior ISWAP commanders leading to heavy terrorist casualties and the destruction of key to equipment.

In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained high operational tempo across Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kano, Niger, Kogi, Kwara and parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
During the month, several terrorists were neutralised, 52 suspects arrested and 100 kidnapped victims rescued. Arms and ammunition were intercepted from gunrunners, while weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock were recovered in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, Niger and Kebbi States.

In the North Central, Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded significant successes in Plateau and parts of Kaduna States, neutralising extremists, arresting 86 criminals and rescuing 24 victims. A major breakthrough was the arrest of a wanted kidnap kingpin, Amadu Adamu, in Jama’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE, covering Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Kwara, Niger and the FCT, led to the arrest of 58 criminals, the rescue of 32 victims and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
South-South And South

In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE delivered crippling blows to oil theft, piracy and militancy, arresting 81 oil thieves and criminals and destroying dozens of illegal refining sites.

Air reconnaissance missions over Bakana and Abuloma disrupted ongoing illegal siphoning activities.

In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA responded to multiple distress calls across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States.
The operations led to the surrender of over 80 militants, the rescue of eight Cameroonian nationals during cross-border patrols, and a noticeable drop in crime rates across the region.

Onoja reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to national security, stressing that sustained operations, inter-agency collaboration and community support are yielding measurable results.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, echoing the Chief of Defence Staff’s mantra: “See something, say something.”
“The Armed Forces will continue to adapt, innovate and respond decisively to evolving threats until lasting peace and stability are achieved,” the DDMO said.