Following the failed military coup in Benin Republic, President Bola Tinubu has officially written to the senate seeking approval for the deployment of Nigerian troops in Benin.
The letter was read on the floor of the red carpet chamber by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Tuesday.
“Pursuant to Section 5, Subsection 5, Part 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended,” the letter reads.
“I seek, in further consultation with the National Defence Council, the consent of the senate, for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin.”
Tinubu said the request followed an appeal from the government of Benin Republic for “the exceptional and immediate provision of air support by the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.
He noted that “the government of the Republic of Benin is currently faced with an attempted unconstitutional seizure of power and disruption and destabilization of democratic institutions”.
The president said “the situation as reported by the government of Benin requires urgent external intervention”.
“Considering the close ties of brotherhood and friendship which exists between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, as well as the principles of collective security upheld within ECOWAS, it is our duty to provide the support as requested by the government,” he added.
However, after the letter was read, Akpabio committed same to the committee of the whole “for immediate action.
The United States government has filed a lawsuit to strip the citizenship of Ghanaian-born former Marine, Nicholas Eshun, after he was dishonourably discharged over explicit communications with someone he believed to be a 14-year-old girl who was later revealed to be an undercover investigator.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Eshun arrived in the United States in 2011 and enlisted in the Marine Corps just months later.
He was granted American citizenship in 2013 under a federal statute that fast-tracks naturalisation for active-duty military personnel.
Undercover
The DOJ said the former Marine’s career ended during an overseas deployment in 2015 when he was caught exchanging sexually explicit messages with someone he thought was a minor. The “14-year-old girl” was in fact an undercover Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) agent.
Eshun was later tried in a military court, convicted, and dismissed from the Marine Corps, ending his service four and a half years into the mandatory five-year period required to retain military-based citizenship benefits.
DOJ Seeks Denaturalisation and Deportation
Federal prosecutors have now filed a denaturalisation complaint in the District of Maryland, arguing that Eshun was not legally eligible for military-based citizenship since he failed to complete the required military obligation.u
If successful, the case will not only revoke his citizenship but also pave the way for his deportation to Ghana.
Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate said the lawsuit signals Washington’s resolve to act against individuals who obtained citizenship unlawfully.
“Today’s denaturalisation against Nicholas Eshun, a court-martialed sex offender, demonstrates the United States’ commitment to using every tool available under the law,” Shumate said.
“Thanks to the intrepid investigators of NCIS, we now know the danger this man poses. There is no lawful basis for him to keep the citizenship he secured as one.”
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also condemned Eshun’s actions:
“As alleged, this defendant betrayed the uniform and abused the trust of this country.
Citizenship is not a shield for criminals who never deserved it. If you commit heinous crimes, you will be held accountable. This is how we make America safe again.”
The case now awaits court proceedings that will determine whether Eshun will lose his U.S. citizenship and face removal from the country.
The military government in Niger Republic has introduced tighter screening procedures for nearly all goods entering the country from Nigeria, citing heightened security concerns across the Sahel region.
In a circular issued on Monday to customs units, authorities ordered that all goods from Nigeria especially items classified as “miscellaneous” must now be offloaded and inspected at designated entry points before any transit or clearance procedures can continue.
“For security reasons, all goods coming from Nigeria, particularly those in the miscellaneous category, must be unloaded and inspected at the entry offices before any transit formalities,” the directive stated.
However, the regime added an exemption: goods accompanied by verified documentation from the port of origin will only be offloaded at their final destination or during routine customs clearance.
The new restrictions come less than 24 hours after Burkina Faso announced it had detained 11 Nigerian military officers and impounded a Nigerian Air Force cargo plane that made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso.
According to a statement released by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) late Monday, Burkinabè authorities launched an investigation immediately after the landing and discovered that the aircraft had entered the country’s airspace without authorisation.
“The investigation revealed the absence of authorisation for the aircraft to fly over Burkinabe territory.
The Confederation of the Sahel States strongly condemns this violation of its airspace and sovereignty,” the AES said.
Following the incident, the AES comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger confirmed that its joint military structures have been placed on maximum alert to respond to any external threats.
The development further deepens tensions between Nigeria and the AES bloc, coming at a time when diplomatic relations in the region are already strained over recent coup attempts, shifting alliances, and security concerns.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed concern that Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram has surpassed the duration of the country’s civil war (1967-1970), lasting nearly 15 years.
Speaking at the ‘Toyin Falola Interviews’, he emphasized that defeating insurgency requires a mix of training, equipment, intelligence, and technology.
Obasanjo suggested Nigeria’s military, trained for conventional warfare, needs specialized training to tackle guerrilla tactics.
He pointed to Colombia as an example, saying there’s “no shame” in seeking their expertise.
He also highlighted potential collusion between security personnel and insurgents, calling the situation an “industry”.
Recounting a 2011 visit to Maiduguri, Obasanjo said Boko Haram initially refused talks but later agreed to a 21-day ceasefire.
Unfortunately, the government didn’t follow through. Obasanjo stressed that addressing insecurity demands honest commitment and modern strategies, urging the government to seek international help if needed.
Assimi Goïta with his Burkina Faso and Niger Republic co-coup plotters
By Dr. Ebuka Onyekwelu
Africa is now returning to its vomit two decades after it jettisoned military rule and embraced civilian governance. All of a sudden, military rule has once again become attractive not just to military dictators, but to the African populace whose past time now includes cheering their new ‘heroes’. With a long history of human rights abuses, corruption, and nepotism that shaped the post-independence Africa, military intervention in the politics of many African countries in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s was merely a change of baton that escalated rights abuses, corruption, and nepotism to an industrial scale. However, with the return to civilian rule, there was a sigh of relief, which has disappeared, only to usher in another sigh of relief for the uniform rulers.
It is interesting that two decades down the line, Africans are, once again, cheering military juntas or calling for the military to displace their civilian government, as some do on social media. To buttress the seriousness of the return of the military in African politics, between 2020 and 2025, Africa has experienced no fewer than 17 coups, out of which 16 were successful. In the list, Mali has experienced a coup both in 2020 and in 2021. The latest coup is the one in the Benin Republic, which has been declared unsuccessful. The “coup belt,” now under military dictatorship, is effectively back to the drawing board with more critical development questions put on hold, amidst escalating insecurity. This is the African story of a deep and troubling somersault embedded in a desire for a messiah and a subterranean crisis of progress that keeps the people running round the same cycle. This contrasts with the “African rising” narrative, which Professor Kingsley Moghalu, political economist and President of the Institute for Governance and Economic Transformation, has dismissed as a farce.
Disconnected from their government in totality, many Africans find justification for coups. For them, a failed government should be displaced by any means possible. To their minds, something that is not working should be discarded. Since the government is not working, even the state can be disbanded. Yet, military juntas, in the experience of Africans, cause far more displacements and social chaos than their civilian counterparts. This situation signals a particular haste for quick fixes, which makes many Africans susceptible to deceit and the charm of agitation leaders who speak loud rhetoric against the government. Many fail to really probe the type of public safety, human dignity, and progress that can be achieved under such human beings as leaders. The fact that many Africans still justify banditry and terrorism only because of opposition to the government speaks to a much dangerous malevolence that is not getting enough attention that it deserves. There is a severe crisis of citizenship that is driving extreme discontent both against the government and against the state. There is also a present challenge of how to engage and strengthen governance without having to weaken the state. This will naturally take us back to the origin of states in Africa and the lack of internal ownership of these states. But the problem is even deeper. Thus, throwing up the following fundamental questions: How best then should Africans be governed and at what level? How best should the African be enticed to take ownership of his own environment? Assuming that tribal identity is a major roadblock to Africa’s development challenge, how have regional governments in Africa changed the fortunes of their own people? There is no region, tribe, or ethnic group with such a story of success tied to its identity in political governance across Africa. Not even in their smallest unit. Yet, every group is in charge of its own governance in its region. It is, therefore, not exactly correct that Africa would have become something far from its current experience if the states were created differently or organically, rather than through colonial appendages. South Sudan, the newest sovereign state that gained independence in 2011, now faces far more troubles than can be imagined for a new country with strong religious and ethnic affinities. Originally proclaimed in 1972 during the first civil war in Sudan, South Sudan has been through a bitter civil war, considered the poorest country in the world, and perhaps now in a worse condition than the mother country, which was formerly conceived of as its problem. It turned out that the problem was deeper than ethnic and religious divides.
The recurrent decimal in which Africans have to make difficult choices between a failed civilian government and a formerly failed military dictatorship in the hope that somehow, the same military which has thoroughly failed at governance will become the new messiah is delusional. In the end, coups will lead to more coups. At the same time, the society is plunged into more chaos, cavernous social disorder, and political instability that further stamp out Africa’s chances of real progress. Africa is still trapped in a vain competition for political power, primarily for proximity to economic power, and this is even more bizarre under military dictatorship.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has licensed 82 bureau de change (BDCs) to operate under new guidelines starting November 27, 2025.
Following consultations, CBN issued these guidelines on May 22, 2024, and asked existing BDCs to reapply.
Operating without a valid licence is a punishable offence under the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020.
The CBN advises dealing only with licensed operators and warns against unlicensed forex businesses.
In a circular on Monday, the apex bank also said that only BDCs listed on the website are authorised to operate from the aforementioned date.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in exercise of its powers conferred under the Bank and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020, and the Regulatory and Supervisory Guidelines for Bureaux De Change Operations in Nigeria 2024 (the Guidelines), has granted Final Licenses to 82 Bureaux De Change (BDCs) to operate with effect from November 27, 2025,” the apex bank said.
“By this notice, only Bureaux De Change listed on the Bank’s website are authorised to operate from the effective date. While the CBN will continue to update the list of Bureaux De Change with valid operating licences for public verification on our website (www.cbn.gov.ng), the Bank advises the general public to avoid dealing with unlicensed Foreign Exchange Operators.
“For the avoidance of doubt, operating a Bureau De Change business without a valid licence is a punishable offence under Section 57(1) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020. Members of the public are hereby advised to note and be guided accordingly.”
Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of violating due process after operatives sealed his Maitama residence in Abuja.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Sylva’s media aide, Chief Julius Bokoru, described the EFCC’s action as an “aggressive intrusion” carried out without a warrant, subpoena, notification, or any lawful procedure.
Bokoru said EFCC officials forcefully entered the property and spray-painted ‘EFCC Keep Off’ on the walls, likening the treatment to that of a fugitive rather than a former governor and minister.
“What unfolded today at the Maitama residence of His Excellency, Chief Timipre Sylva, was nothing short of an affront to decency and a troubling assault on the very principles that underpin a civilised society,” Bokoru said.
He noted that Sylva’s family and domestic staff had already been “effectively encircled for weeks”, adding that the EFCC’s latest action had worsened an already distressing situation.
“Where are his children expected to go? How long must they endure this atmosphere of fear and uncertainty?” he asked.
Bokoru stressed that he does not believe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is behind the continued actions against Sylva, insisting the President has a track record of respecting due process.
Instead, he alleged that the EFCC’s conduct “bears the hallmarks of local political rivalry being misinterpreted or mischievously presented as federal instruction.”
“Government agencies must never allow themselves to become weapons in political contests.
To do so weakens not only the institutions themselves but the very fabric of our democracy,” he added.
The statement also drew attention to the continued detention of several of Sylva’s aides and domestic workers Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba who have reportedly been held for weeks on “vague and insubstantial allegations”.
Bokoru described their detention as unjust, needless, and emblematic of a wider political persecution.
Despite the escalating tensions, Sylva’s camp remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved within the bounds of the law.
“We believe justice will rise above intimidation, that truth will outlast malice, and that this too shall pass,” the statement concluded.
The United Nations, ECOWAS and neighbouring Nigeria have declared full support for President Patrice Talon after a swift military operation crushed an attempted coup in Benin Republic.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in a statement released through his spokesman, said he was “deeply concerned” about the attempt to “unconstitutionally seize power,” warning that any disruption to democratic governance in Benin could worsen instability in an already fragile West African region.
Guterres called for strict respect for Benin’s constitution and urged protection of democratic institutions from military interference.
He added that his Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, Leonardo Santos Simão, is in direct contact with Beninese authorities, political actors and regional bodies to support efforts to restore calm.
He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to helping national and regional institutions defend constitutional order “in Benin and across West Africa,” while coordinating closely with ECOWAS and the African Union.
The attempted takeover began early Sunday when soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation seized state television, announced the dissolution of the government and claimed President Talon had been removed.
But within hours, Benin’s interior minister announced that loyal forces had regained control of key installations and foiled the coup.
President Talon later thanked security chiefs for their swift response.
The incident adds to a series of coups and attempted takeovers that have shaken West Africa in recent years, including the recent post-election military seizure of power in Guinea-Bissau.
ECOWAS moved quickly, denouncing the coup attempt as “a subversion of the will of the people.”
The bloc ordered the deployment of troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire to reinforce Benin’s military and preserve constitutional order.
The rapid deployment highlights ECOWAS’ efforts to deter further coups after successful military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea – and the new instability in Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria, Benin’s most powerful neighbour, led the emergency response. President Bola Tinubu, who chairs ECOWAS, praised the Nigerian armed forces for their “decisive contribution” to restoring control in Cotonou.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed that Benin submitted two separate requests for air support and for ground forces.
Nigerian troops then joined loyal Beninese units in clearing mutineers from the state broadcaster and strategic sites.
“It took some hours before loyal forces, assisted by Nigeria, flushed out the coup plotters from the national television station,” Onanuga said, adding that Nigeria acted strictly in line with ECOWAS directives on defending democracy.
With authorities declaring the situation “under control,” attention is shifting to the fate of the detained plotters and the broader implications for regional stability.
Both the UN and ECOWAS say they will maintain close engagement with Cotonou to ensure the coup attempt does not trigger further unrest in a region already battling democratic setbacks.
(DDM) – A rising Nigerian technology executive has ignited new conversations about the future of work after revealing that his company replaced a planned recruitment of 100 workers with a fully integrated artificial intelligence system.
Diaspora Digital Media DDM gathered that the CEO, a Babcock University graduate who now leads one of the country’s fastest-growing digital firms, described AI as the single most efficient transformation tool he has ever deployed in his organization.
He explained that the company initially budgeted for a large workforce expansion, projecting millions of naira in payroll expenses, training costs, office facilities, and long-term operational overhead.
He said the discovery of a scalable AI knowledge system immediately changed the financial outlook, demonstrating that automation could achieve the same output with near-zero error rates and faster delivery.
The CEO noted that the decision was not simply about cutting costs but about building a model that allows Nigerian companies to compete globally.
He revealed that the AI system now handles customer engagement, data analysis, onboarding, internal documentation, and key decision-support functions previously reserved for human staff.
According to him, the platform operates around the clock, learns continuously, and generates new operational templates based on real-time feedback.
Industry watchers say his story highlights a rapidly expanding trend among Nigerian startups and mid-size companies adapting AI solutions to replace traditional workforce systems.
Technology analysts argue that the shift mirrors global patterns as businesses turn to automation to solve rising operational costs, talent scarcity, and the need for faster execution cycles.
The CEO’s journey from Babcock to corporate boardrooms also resonates with young Nigerians who see technology as the most reliable path to economic mobility.
The rise of AI adoption in Nigeria has been accelerated by improved cloud infrastructure, cheaper computing power, and global investment in African tech ecosystems.
However, analysts warn that the transition also poses significant threats to employment, especially in administrative, clerical, and junior-level roles.
Labour experts caution that while AI may boost efficiency, it could widen unemployment if the government fails to implement policies supporting digital upskilling.
Educational institutions across the country are also under pressure to redesign curricula to meet the demands of an AI-driven economy.
The CEO insists that his decision should not be viewed as an attack on human labour but as a necessary evolution for any company hoping to survive the next decade.
He added that the firm still employs humans in strategic and creative roles where emotional intelligence, leadership, and cultural alignment remain vital.
He called on Nigerian youths to embrace AI early, study digital systems, and build skills that cannot be automated.
He further urged regulators to create frameworks that support innovation without slowing down technological advancement.
Experts believe that the Nigerian economy could unlock billions of dollars in value if more companies adopt responsible AI integration.
They also predict that firms that delay automation risk losing competitiveness in a global market driven by speed, accuracy, and low-cost execution.
The CEO’s testimony continues to generate intense debate online, with many praising the efficiency gains while others question how Nigeria will manage workforce displacement.
For now, his story stands as one of the most compelling examples of how Nigerian leadership is beginning to redefine productivity in the age of artificial intelligence.
Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has called on the judiciary to speed up trials for terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, emphasizing that the courts must support national efforts to tackle insecurity.
Speaking at the Court of Appeal’s 2025/2026 Legal Year ceremony in Abuja, Fagbemi stressed that swift justice can deter impunity and protect citizens.
Fagbemi said: “At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is also impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity that confronts our country. From insurgency and terrorism to banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes, these threats imperil not only the safety of our citizens but also the very fabric of our constitutional democracy.
“The judiciary, as the guardian of justice and the custodian of the rule of law, must lend its weight to national efforts to combat insecurity through firm, consistent and courageous adjudication, the courts can ensure that those who threaten peace and stability are held accountable, that impunity is dismantled, and that the sanctity of human life and property is protected.”
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, also present, promised improved accommodations for judges to boost their performance, saying, “Comfortable housing lets judges focus on justice, free from distractions.”
The government has allocated funds for new judicial residences and begun fencing the Supreme Court to enhance security.
Also, Fagbemi highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to adding more Federal High Court judges to handle terrorism cases promptly.
Wike reaffirmed the FCTA’s support for justice reforms, stating, “Justice must never be compromised—it’s democracy’s bedrock.”
The Court of Appeal is expected to boost efficiency in the new legal year.
(DDM) – The Federal Government has begun an investigation into reports that a Nigerian military C-130 transport aircraft was forced to land in Burkina Faso after allegedly violating the country’s restricted airspace.
According to DDM findings, the aircraft, which was reportedly on an operational mission within the West African sub-region, was intercepted by Burkinabé authorities who accused the crew of entering their airspace without diplomatic or military clearance.
The Nigerian Air Force has not released an official statement confirming whether the aircraft was on a scheduled operation, a humanitarian mission, or a logistics deployment.
Security officials, however, confirmed that communication between Nigerian and Burkinabé authorities has intensified as both nations attempt to clarify the circumstances that led to the grounding.
Eyewitness sources in Ouagadougou reported that the C-130 aircraft was escorted to a military airbase where technical checks and passenger verification were conducted by local defense personnel.
Background intelligence suggests that regional airspace rules have become more sensitive following recent coups and strained diplomatic relations across parts of West Africa.
Burkina Faso, now governed by a military junta, has tightened its airspace controls amid ongoing conflict with jihadist groups and heightened suspicion of foreign military movements.
Analysts say the geopolitical landscape in the Sahel has worsened after the withdrawal of French troops and the rise of the Alliance of Sahel States, a defense partnership between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Nigeria, although not part of the alliance, remains a major military power in West Africa and often conducts cross-border logistics flights for peacekeeping, training, and emergency missions.
Officials in Abuja said the inquiry is aimed at determining whether the aircraft filed the appropriate flight plan, received clearance from air traffic controllers, or was on a mission that required diplomatic notification.
They also emphasized that Nigeria is committed to respecting the sovereignty of neighboring countries, especially at a time when military tensions and security mistrust are growing across the region.
A senior defense source said the matter is being handled quietly to prevent diplomatic friction between Nigeria and Burkina Faso.
He also noted that C-130 aircraft are frequently used for troop movement, relief materials, and equipment transportation, and any deviation from approved corridors often triggers alarm.
Aviation experts warned that airspace violations, whether intentional or accidental, can be misinterpreted as hostile actions in volatile regions.
They stressed that even minor communication lapses can escalate into diplomatic conflict when military aircraft are involved.
Burkina Faso’s defense authorities have not issued a public statement, fueling speculation about whether the grounding was procedural or politically motivated.
Some observers believe the military government may be using the incident to reinforce its hardline stance against foreign interference.
Others argue it could simply be an enforcement of standard aviation security protocols.
For now, Nigerian authorities are awaiting a full briefing from the aircraft’s crew and the Nigerian Air Force command structure before addressing the public.
The Federal Government assured citizens that the safety of the crew is not in danger and that discussions with Burkina Faso are ongoing.
The situation remains under review as both countries work to prevent miscommunication that could strain regional cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
(DDM) – Security tension escalated in Kogi State after operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps intercepted a truck transporting 21 underage children in what authorities suspect to be a coordinated trafficking and criminal recruitment mission.
DDM gathered that the truck, which was intercepted during a routine patrol operation, was allegedly being used to move the children across state lines under suspicious circumstances that immediately raised alarms among security personnel.
The NSCDC confirmed that the intercepted vehicle had no documentation showing the identities, guardianship, or purpose of movement for the children.
Officials described the situation as a classic red flag commonly associated with trafficking, forced labor, and potential recruitment into violent criminal activities by organized gangs.
According to the Kogi NSCDC Command, officers on duty noticed irregular behavior from the truck drivers and ordered a thorough search, which led to the shocking discovery.
The children, all visibly distressed, reportedly gave conflicting accounts of where they were traveling to and who authorized their movement.
Security officers said the inconsistencies reinforced suspicions of a larger criminal network possibly involving bandits and traffickers who exploit minors for illegal activities.
Background checks show that Kogi State has increasingly become a transit zone for trafficking syndicates moving children to Northern and Central Nigeria.
Experts also warn that criminal groups have expanded their recruitment strategies, targeting vulnerable children for errands, spying, ransom collection, and violent operations.
The NSCDC said the truck’s driver and accompanying adults have been detained for questioning as investigations intensify.
Authorities are now working to identify the children’s families, states of origin, and whether they were abducted or willingly taken under false promises.
Officials noted that the rapid response prevented what could have become a major criminal tragedy involving minors.
Community leaders praised the NSCDC for vigilance but urged the government to strengthen surveillance around major highways.
They argued that trafficking routes have become more sophisticated, requiring intelligence-driven operations to dismantle emerging child recruitment cartels.
Child-protection advocates condemned the incident, saying the abuse of minors has reached a disturbing level that demands immediate federal intervention.
They emphasized that Nigeria’s porous transportation system continues to make children vulnerable to exploitation, abduction, and criminal manipulation.
Kogi State authorities vowed to tighten security checks, especially around borders, to prevent similar trafficking attempts.
The government also promised to collaborate with the police, immigration service, and community vigilante networks for broader intelligence sharing.
Residents of Kogi expressed relief that the children were rescued unharmed, urging authorities to ensure the suspects face full legal consequences.
Investigators are now exploring whether the intercepted truck is part of a wider child-trafficking ring already under security watch.
For now, the rescued children are receiving temporary shelter, medical evaluation, and counseling as inquiries continue.
A powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit north-eastern Japan on Monday night, leaving at least 30 people injured and forcing around 90,000 residents to evacuate.
The quake struck at 23:15 local time, about 80km off the coast of Aomori Prefecture, at a depth of 50km, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
It triggered tsunami warnings now lifted after waves of up to 70cm were recorded.
Thousands of homes have been left without electricity, and several train services along the north-eastern corridor have been suspended.
Authorities warn that aftershocks or a stronger quake remain possible and urge residents to stay on high alert for the next seven days.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged citizens to secure furniture, review evacuation plans, and be prepared to move immediately if shaking resumes.
The government has activated an emergency response centre to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
Energy officials say no irregularities were detected at the Higashidori, Onagawa, or Fukushima nuclear power facilities.
Japan, located on the seismically active Ring of Fire, records around 1,500 earthquakes annually. Experts recently warned of a 60–90% chance of a major “Nankai Trough” megaquake within the next 30 years.
(DDM) – Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga has defended President Bola Tinubu’s recent military actions in the Benin Republic, describing them as evidence of Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to democracy and regional stability.
DDM gathered that Onanuga’s comments followed widespread reactions to Nigeria’s deployment of military support to the neighboring country, an operation the presidency says was necessary to restore order and protect democratic institutions.
Onanuga argued that Tinubu’s decision underscores Nigeria’s long-standing role as a stabilizing power in West Africa.
He said the president acted to prevent what could have been a serious threat to democratic governance within the region.
According to him, the intervention also highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to protect citizens whenever cross-border insecurity escalates.
He added that Nigeria’s rapid rescue operations involving stranded students further affirmed Tinubu’s responsiveness to crises.
Onanuga maintained that democracy cannot flourish in an environment where armed groups or non-state actors disrupt constitutional order.
He insisted that Tinubu’s directive was rooted in his responsibility as ECOWAS Chairman to defend regional peace.
Background checks show that Nigeria has repeatedly intervened in West African political conflicts since the 1990s through ECOMOG and various peacekeeping missions.
Security analysts say Tinubu inherited a region plagued by rising coups, extremist violence, and fragile democratic systems.
They note that West Africa has recorded several military takeovers in recent years, raising concerns about a possible reversal of democratic gains.
Onanuga emphasized that Tinubu’s administration is determined to prevent destabilization in countries sharing borders with Nigeria.
He said allowing insecurity to spread would compromise Nigeria’s national interest and expose millions of citizens to danger.
Critics, however, argue that the government has not fully explained the legal and diplomatic basis of the operation.
Opposition voices claim that Nigerians deserve clarity regarding the scale, purpose, and long-term implications of deploying troops outside national boundaries.
Some civil society groups have also demanded transparency on whether the National Assembly was fully briefed before the intervention.
Onanuga dismissed the criticisms as politically motivated and insisted the president acted in both national and regional interest.
He said Tinubu’s leadership would continue to prioritize democracy, security, and human rights despite negative portrayals by opponents.
Analysts believe the incident may shape Nigeria’s diplomatic posture as ECOWAS continues to struggle with internal divisions.
The debate over Tinubu’s foreign policy approach is expected to intensify as more details emerge about the Benin Republic operation.
For now, the presidency maintains that defending democracy sometimes requires decisive military action.
Onanuga insists Tinubu will not hesitate to act whenever democracy or Nigerian lives are threatened.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dismissed reports claiming that its C-130 aircraft violated Burkina Faso’s airspace or that its crew members were detained by Burkinabe authorities.
In an official statement on Tuesday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame clarified that the aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso on 8 December during a ferry mission to Portugal.
According to Ejodame, the crew detected a technical issue shortly after takeoff from Lagos, prompting the pilots to divert to the nearest safe airfield, in line with international aviation protocols and standard safety procedures.
“All NAF crew members are safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities,” he confirmed, debunking claims of detention.
He added that arrangements are underway for the aircraft and crew to resume the mission as scheduled.
The NAF expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their support and assured the public of its commitment to strict safety standards and operational professionalism.
Honduras’ Attorney General has issued an arrest warrant for former President Juan Orlando Hernández, just days after he was released from U.S. federal prison following a controversial pardon by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Attorney General Johel Antonio Zelaya Álvarez confirmed Monday on X that he has instructed national authorities and Interpol to arrest Hernández, who faces money laundering and fraud charges in Honduras.
“We have been lacerated by the tentacles of corruption and by criminal networks that have profoundly marked the life of our country,” Zelaya wrote, sharing a photo of the Supreme Court’s arrest order dated November 28—the same day Trump announced plans to pardon Hernández.
Hernández Was Serving 45-Year U.S. Sentence
Hernández served as President from 2014 to 2022.
In the U.S., he was convicted last year of drug trafficking, sentenced to 45 years in prison, and fined $8 million for allegedly working with drug cartels that moved over 400 tons of cocaine through Honduras toward the U.S.
Trump pardoned him on December 3, calling his prosecution a “Biden horrible witch hunt.”
The decision triggered bipartisan backlash in Washington and criticism in Honduras.
New Charges Linked to Pandora II Corruption Case
Domestically, Hernández faces charges tied to Pandora II, a sweeping anti-corruption probe involving senior politicians and business elites.
Prosecutors allege he siphoned $2.4 million in kickbacks from public contracts to finance his 2013 presidential campaign.
His lawyer, Renato Stabile, told CNN the arrest warrant is purely political:
“A desperate piece of political theatre… These charges are completely baseless.”
Honduras May Seek Extradition
Luis Santos, head of the Specialized Unit Against Corruption Crimes, confirmed to CNN that Hernández has had an active case in the Supreme Court since 2023, and that an international arrest warrant has been held by Interpol for more than a year.
He warned that if Hernández does not return voluntarily, authorities will request extradition from the United States.
Hernández Responds
Hernández has repeatedly insisted he is innocent, claiming his conviction relied on testimony from “criminals seeking revenge.”
After his release, he thanked Trump on X for “having the courage to defend justice.”
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face off against Egypt’s Pharaohs in a practice match on December 16, as part of their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The match was initially set for December 14 but was rescheduled due to FIFA’s rule allowing clubs to retain players until December 15.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the change, noting that the friendly will allow both teams to make more than five substitutions.
Kickoff is at 7pm Nigerian time at Cairo Stadium.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has named a 54-player provisional squad, though captain William Troost-Ekong recently announced his retirement from international football.
The final 28-man list is expected soon.
The team arrives in Egypt on December 10 for a training camp and more friendlies before AFCON kicks off on December 21.
In Group C, Nigeria will face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
Burkina Faso’s military government has confirmed the detention of 11 Nigerian military officers after a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft made an emergency landing inside the country without prior clearance.
In a statement released late Monday, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — comprising Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali — said the aircraft was forced to land in the city of Bobo-Dioulasso on December 8, 2025, following an in-flight emergency.
AES: Nigerian Aircraft Entered Airspace Without Authorization
According to the junta, the Nigerian Air Force plane was operating inside Burkinabe airspace without official authorization.
The statement reads:
“An aircraft belonging to the Air Force of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a C130 type, was forced to land today… following an in-flight emergency situation, while it was operating in Burkinabe airspace.”
The AES confirmed the aircraft carried:
2 crew members
9 military passengers
All 11 individuals were identified as Nigerian armed forces personnel and are currently being detained pending investigation.
The AES said Burkinabe authorities have launched a full investigation, which has already revealed the absence of any overflight authorization for the Nigerian aircraft.
The bloc strongly condemned what it described as a “violation of airspace and sovereignty”, emphasizing that the action contravenes international aviation regulations.
Sahel States Place Air Defense Systems on Maximum Alert
In response to the incident, the AES said all three member states have placed their air defense and anti-aircraft systems on maximum alert, acting on instructions from their Heads of State.
“Measures have been taken to guarantee the security of the confederal airspace… and systems have been authorized to neutralize any aircraft that violates the confederal airspace,” the statement said.
The alliance warned that its military forces are now on high readiness to counter any external threat.
(DDM) – A growing political storm erupted on Capitol Hill on Monday as Democratic Congressman Jason Crow demanded the Trump administration release the full video of the controversial September strike on an alleged drug-running boat in the Caribbean.
DDM confirmed that Crow, speaking during an interview with CNN’s Kasie Hunt, insisted that Americans deserve to “see for themselves” what truly happened during the military operation, which has drawn intense scrutiny across Washington.
The incident, which involved a US military strike on a vessel suspected of narcotics trafficking, has become one of the most contentious national security debates of the year.
Crow criticized President Donald Trump’s abrupt reversal after previously signaling his willingness to release the footage.
He argued that the White House’s hesitation only fuels suspicion.
Crow said the administration appears more focused on “cover-ups” than transparency, accusing officials of withholding crucial information that would clarify whether the strike followed legal and ethical standards.
He emphasized that there should be no debate about the footage because “they can just release the video.”
According to Crow, the reluctance is especially concerning since Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has a reputation for releasing military videos quickly whenever they support the administration’s narrative.
Crow suggested that Hegseth’s silence in this case is “very telling.”
The congressman also noted that multiple top lawmakers who viewed the footage reached sharply differing conclusions about the legality of the strike.
For Crow, this underscores why the public must see the video instead of relying on political interpretations.
He repeated that transparency is the only acceptable path forward.
Crow further compared the situation to the stalled release of the Epstein files, saying both issues require openness from the government.
He argued that public trust is undermined whenever information is intentionally withheld.
The controversy intensified last week when Trump claimed he would be “happy” to release the full video of the operation.
However, despite his promise, no footage has been made public, and the administration now appears to be retreating from the commitment.
Critics say the delay raises questions about what the video actually shows and whether the strike complied with international law and US rules of engagement.
The September incident took place near the maritime borders of Venezuela and Suriname, where narcotics trafficking routes have long been a challenge for US military and intelligence agencies.
Background reports indicate that the Caribbean corridor remains one of the most frequently used paths for drug shipments headed toward North America and Europe.
Security analysts say this increases the likelihood of aggressive US interdiction efforts, often carried out under complex and high-risk conditions.
The lack of clarity surrounding the strike has fueled partisan divides, with Republicans defending the operation and Democrats calling for immediate transparency.
Human rights advocates have also joined the debate, urging an independent review to determine whether the force used was justified.
As the dispute widens, members of Congress continue to pressure the administration to release the video without further delay.
For now, the footage remains undisclosed, leaving the public to rely on conflicting political narratives rather than verified evidence.
The controversy is expected to escalate in the coming days as lawmakers return to Washington demanding answers.
(DDM) – President Donald Trump has ignited major international debate after announcing the removal of export controls on Nvidia’s H200 artificial-intelligence chips, opening the door for approved Chinese buyers to access one of America’s most powerful AI technologies.
According to DDM correspondent, the announcement appeared in a Truth Social post where Trump detailed his direct communication with China’s President Xi Jinping about the new export policy.
Trump explained that Nvidia will now be allowed to ship its H200 chips to selected Chinese customers, but with terms designed to maintain what he described as “strong national security.”
He noted that China responded positively to the development, signaling a rare moment of cooperation between the two global rivals.
Trump added a surprising financial clause, stating that “25% will be paid to the United States of America,” a remark widely interpreted as meaning that a quarter of Nvidia’s revenue from these sales will be transferred to the US government.
The decision follows Trump’s meeting with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang last week, a conversation seen by analysts as a turning point in the administration’s approach to chip exports.
Nvidia released a statement praising the announcement, describing it as a balanced and strategic approach that strengthens America’s overall technological position.
Notably, the export authorization does not include Nvidia’s more advanced and highly protected Blackwell and Rubin series chips, which remain under strict restrictions due to their advanced AI capabilities.
This limitation signals Washington’s continued caution about allowing China access to cutting-edge US technology that could be used to advance military, surveillance or strategic AI systems.
Trump also revealed that the US Department of Commerce is finalizing similar export frameworks for AMD, Intel and other American chipmakers seeking access to the lucrative Chinese AI market.
AMD declined immediate comment, while Intel refused to respond to CNN’s request for a statement.
This development comes on the heels of earlier arrangements made by the Trump administration in which Nvidia and AMD agreed to pay 15% of their chip-related revenues from China to the US government.
Trump also previously disclosed that the federal government secured a 10% ownership stake in Intel as part of broader efforts to give Washington more influence over the future of American semiconductor production.
The lifting of restrictions on H200 exports marks a major shift in US-China tech relations, coming at a time when both nations are competing to dominate the global AI race.
Industry analysts warn that the move may trigger intense geopolitical reactions, especially from national security officials concerned about China gaining access to advanced processors capable of powering large-scale AI systems.
Economists, however, argue that the decision may boost US revenue streams, strengthen cooperation with major chipmakers and reduce tensions in the global semiconductor supply chain.
As the world reacts, debate continues over whether Trump’s move represents a bold economic strategy or a risky concession in a high-stakes AI power struggle.
More reactions are expected from world governments, tech analysts and financial markets as the implications of Trump’s decision unfold.
(DDM) – A powerful magnitude-7.5 earthquake struck off Japan’s northeastern coast late Monday, forcing authorities to issue urgent evacuation orders and activate a tsunami warning across multiple coastal communities.
DDM gathered that the quake, initially measured at 7.6, sent residents fleeing to higher ground as emergency sirens echoed across Iwate, Aomori, and Hokkaido.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency later confirmed that tsunami waves had reached affected areas in the early hours of Tuesday.
Officials reported a 2.3-foot tsunami at Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture.
Smaller waves of about 16 inches were observed in Aomori and Hokkaido, adding to fears of further sea-level disturbances.
The JMA subsequently downgraded the full tsunami warning to an advisory after several hours of monitoring.
The United States Geological Survey said the earthquake struck at 11:15 p.m. local time, approximately 44 miles off the northeastern coast.
The quake generated strong shaking across northern Japan and occurred at a depth of around 33 miles beneath the ocean floor.
Background reports show that Japan remains one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Major earthquakes in 2011 and 2016 have left lasting trauma, leading authorities to strengthen their early-warning systems and tsunami response protocols.
Residents in coastal towns rushed to designated evacuation shelters, a routine practice in Japan’s disaster-preparedness culture.
Local officials issued repeated announcements urging citizens to stay away from the shoreline until all advisories were lifted.
Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and disaster agencies were placed on alert but reported no immediate large-scale damage.
However, authorities warned that aftershocks remained highly likely.
Meteorological teams continued monitoring changes along the coastline as fears of secondary waves persisted.
Emergency services checked bridges, transportation routes, and utility systems for potential disruption.
Airports in the region conducted rapid safety inspections to ensure runway stability.
Train operators temporarily halted services as a precaution, a common response in the country’s strict safety framework.
Experts told DDM that deep-focus earthquakes of this magnitude can still produce dangerous tsunamis despite being centered far offshore.
The tremor was felt across wide areas, including Sapporo, Hakodate, and parts of northern Honshu.
Graphic models from the USGS mapped the quake’s epicenter in the North Pacific Ocean, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to seismic shifts.
As of early Tuesday, emergency officials urged residents to remain cautious until all advisories were officially lifted.
Japan remains on high alert as authorities continue assessing the situation, gathering damage reports, and preparing for potential aftershocks.
(DDM) – Senate Majority Leader John Thune has declined to state whether the Pentagon should publicly release the full video of a deadly September follow-up strike on an alleged narcoterrorist boat in the Caribbean.
Diaspora Digital Media DDM gathered that the footage, already reviewed in private by senior lawmakers on key committees, has become the center of a growing transparency battle in Washington.
Thune, speaking to CNN, insisted that the Senate Armed Services Committee is “doing oversight” on the matter.
He suggested that the Pentagon and the committee would jointly determine how much information should be made public.
Thune also appeared unaware of a new provision in the annual defense policy bill that would force the Pentagon to release the video to the Armed Services Committees.
When pressed on why the provision was inserted into the legislation, Thune replied, “I’ll find out.”
The video reportedly captures a second strike carried out by U.S. forces on survivors of an initial attack targeting a suspected narcoterrorist vessel.
Lawmakers who viewed the recording last week have not publicly disclosed details, heightening demands for transparency from both Congress and the public.
The incident took place in September, sparking concerns about rules of engagement, intelligence accuracy, and the government’s responsibility to release records of lethal military operations.
Observers say the reluctance from top congressional leaders to endorse public release raises questions about what the video contains and why the Pentagon remains cautious.
DDM notes that controversies involving military transparency have historically triggered bipartisan scrutiny, especially when civilian or survivor casualties are suspected.
Thune’s comments come as political tensions rise in Congress over national security oversight.
On a separate issue, the GOP leader also refused to commit to an alternative Republican health care proposal this week.
Democrats are preparing for a vote to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies for three years, a measure expected to receive strong support from their caucus.
Thune signaled that Republicans remain divided over how to handle the expiring subsidies.
He confirmed that GOP lawmakers “have people in different camps” on the future of the health care tax credits.
He also said Republicans will meet tomorrow to decide their legislative strategy.
Thune accused Democrats of engaging in what he described as a “political messaging exercise” rather than approaching negotiations in good faith.
“I don’t think they’re serious about wanting to do a deal yet,” he told CNN.
Policy analysts say the health care showdown and the boat strike controversy together highlight widening fractures within Congress, as both parties struggle to manage defense accountability and urgent domestic policy priorities.
Advocates for transparency argue that releasing the boat strike footage is essential for public trust in U.S. military operations.
Meanwhile, lawmakers expect heated debates on both issues in the coming days, with the Pentagon, congressional committees, and party leaders facing increasing pressure to explain their positions.
(DDM) – Kano State Government has proposed a budget exceeding ₦40 billion for the health sector in the 2026 fiscal year.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the announcement was made by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran, on Monday in Kano.
Dr. Labaran presented the Ministry of Health’s 2026 budget before the State House of Assembly Committee on Health.
He explained that the allocation is aimed at consolidating ongoing healthcare reforms and strengthening service delivery across all 44 local government areas in Kano State.
According to the commissioner, the ministry will begin recruiting over 2,600 new health workers starting next week to address staffing gaps in hospitals and primary healthcare centres.
The recruitment will cover Medical Doctors, Nurses, Midwives, Environmental Health Officers, Laboratory Scientists, and other essential cadres needed to improve service delivery.
Dr. Labaran emphasized that priority in the 2026 budget has been given to renovating health facilities and providing modern medical equipment to enhance healthcare capacity.
The upgrades are expected to reduce patient waiting times, improve emergency response, and deliver efficient healthcare services to the citizens of Kano.
He said, “We are committed to rebuilding our hospitals and equipping them with modern technology that will ensure quality and efficient healthcare services for the people of Kano State.”
The commissioner praised Governor Abba Yusuf for his sustained investment and unwavering attention to the health needs of the state’s population.
He highlighted that the governor’s support has enabled the ministry to implement reforms targeting maternal and child health outcomes.
The initiatives also focus on addressing disease outbreaks and strengthening community-level health programmes across Kano State.
DDM reports that the proposed health budget represents one of the highest allocations in the state’s recent fiscal plans, reflecting the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.
Observers note that the recruitment and modernization of facilities could significantly improve service delivery and patient outcomes in both urban and rural communities.
The proposed budget also underscores the state government’s strategy to attract and retain qualified health professionals in underserved areas.
Experts say that investing in health infrastructure and workforce is critical for achieving sustainable improvements in public health and resilience against epidemics.
The Kano State House of Assembly Committee on Health is expected to review and approve the budget proposals in the coming weeks.
Once approved, the reforms will enhance emergency preparedness, hospital efficiency, and access to quality healthcare for millions of residents in the state.
The move aligns with broader national objectives to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and ensure equitable access to medical services.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has officially launched his TikTok account, even though the video-sharing platform remains banned on government devices due to security concerns.
A spokesman for the Prime Minister confirmed that “security mitigations” have been put in place to allow him to use the platform safely.
First Videos: Christmas Lights & Global Diplomacy
In his first post, Starmer appeared alongside his wife during the Downing Street Christmas lights switch-on ceremony, telling viewers:
“TikTok, follow me.”
A second video features:
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky hugging Starmer outside No. 10
Joined by France’s President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
Ahead of talks on proposals to end the Ukraine–Russia war
TikTok Ban Still Stands
The UK banned TikTok on government devices in March 2023, citing data security concerns related to its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.
Similar restrictions are in place across several Western nations.
Though an official “10 Downing Street” TikTok account launched under Boris Johnson in May 2022, it went inactive after three months.
Starmer’s spokesman reiterated:
“Restrictions on the use of the app on most government devices remain in place.
A Communication Strategy Shift as Poll Ratings Lag
Starmer’s embrace of TikTok is widely seen as an effort to connect with younger and digitally active voters, especially as his government battles persistently low approval ratings.
Only days earlier, he launched a Substack newsletter to promote government efforts—including new policies aimed at reducing child poverty.
“Communication is changing, and I want to be a part of that,” Starmer wrote on Substack.
The government has also begun engaging influencers, giving two personal-finance creators front-row seats at a recent press conference.
Despite privacy concerns, TikTok remains one of the most widely used apps globally, boasting:
1.5 billion users worldwide
Over 30 million regular users in the UK
Starmer now joins other world leaders on the platform, including:
Senator Godswill Akpabio and Obong Barr. Imo Akpan.
By Ofonime Honesty
The President of the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has been hailed as a national asset, foundational pillar of leadership and a generational gift to Nigeria in a birthday tribute by a top official of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Obong Barr. Imo Akpan.
In a personally-signed statement issued on Tuesday, Barr. Akpan, who is the Commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State on the RMAFC, celebrated the Senate President’s life, tracing his trajectory from humble origins to national prominence.
He said Senator Akpabio, being a national asset, ascended to the exalted office of President of the 10th Senate not merely a reward for diligence and resilience, but as “the clearest evidence of God’s goodness and faithfulness.”
Barr. Akpan further stated that the celebrant’s life stands as “a living testimony of God’s amazing grace,” noting his rise “from the humblest of beginnings in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, through the undeniable finger of God,” to the “pinnacle of governance.”
The tribute detailed Akpabio’s legacy, highlighting “a trail of compassion, excellence, uncommon love for humanity, and an unrelenting zeal to succeed.”
The Commissioner emphasised the Senate President’s role as a patron, stating that the leader’s glory and compassion have trickled down to him and countless lives, attributing his accomplishments to Akpabio’s “benevolence, guidance, undisguised love, and unwavering belief.”
Akpan also described Senator Akpabio as “a certified raiser of destinies, a generational gift to Akwa Ibom State, to Nigeria, and indeed to humanity.”
“The Almighty God who has brought you this far will continue to bless you with robust health, boundless joy, profound wisdom, renewed strength, and many more glorious years of selfless service,” he prayed.
