Trump Warns New Venezuela Leader Will Pay ‘Big Price’ If She Doesn’t ‘Do What’s Right’

Trump Warns Venezuela’s New Leader of “Big Price” if She Resists U.S. Demands

Summary: President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, declaring she will “pay a very big price” if she fails to cooperate with U.S. intervention following the dramatic capture of Nicolás Maduro.  

The political landscape in Venezuela has shifted dramatically in early January 2026 after U.S. forces carried out a covert military operation that led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Maduro is now detained in New York on narcoterrorism and drug trafficking charges, marking a watershed moment in Washington’s long-standing confrontation with Caracas. In the wake of this upheaval, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim leader, backed by the Venezuelan Supreme Court and military forces.  

Trump says over 33% of Nigerian immigrants in US depend on public benefits

Trump’s Claim on Nigerian Immigrants and U.S. Public Benefits

Summary: On January 4, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that over 33% of Nigerian immigrant households in the United States rely on public benefits. This claim, shared via his Truth Social platform, has sparked debate on immigration, welfare dependency, and economic contributions.  

On January 4, 2026, President Donald Trump released a chart titled “Immigrant Welfare Recipient Rates by Country of Origin” on his Truth Social account.

The chart purportedly analyzed welfare dependency among immigrant households from over 114 countries and territories.

According to the data highlighted, 33.3% of Nigerian immigrant households in the United States receive some form of public assistance, including food aid, healthcare benefits, and other welfare programs.  

Rivers APC, PDP Leaderships in Ahoada West LG Promise to Follow Wike’s Instruction for 2027

Rivers APC and PDP Leaderships in Ahoada West LG Pledge Loyalty to Wike Ahead of 2027  

In a striking show of political alignment, the leadership of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State have openly declared their readiness to follow the directives of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as the 2027 general elections approach.

This unusual convergence of rival party leaders underscores Wike’s enduring influence in Rivers politics, despite his current role at the federal level.  

During a stakeholders’ meeting and “thank you” visit by Wike to Ahoada West, APC chairman Rejoice Otobo assured the minister that the party in the local government would act in accordance with his instructions.

Prophetic Declarations for 2026 - Voices from Nigeria and Beyond

Special Feature: Prophetic Declarations for 2026 - Voices from Nigeria and Beyond

As the dawn of 2026 broke, the atmosphere across Nigeria and much of the Christian world was charged with anticipation. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the quiet prayer camps in Jos, millions tuned in to hear the annual prophetic declarations from revered men and women of God. These pronouncements, delivered during crossover services and global livestreams, were not mere words; they carried the weight of expectation, hope, and warning, shaping conversations in homes, workplaces, and even political circles.

Jigawa LGA Bans Night Operation After Deadly Boat Mishap

Jigawa LGA Bans Night Operation After Deadly Boat Mishap

The Guri Local Government Council of Jigawa State has imposed a ban on canoe transportation during night-time hours, specifically between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., following a devastating accident on River Badin that claimed the lives of 26 passengers.

The tragic incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. when a canoe carrying passengers capsized between Adiyani community in Guri LGA, Jigawa State, and Garbi community in Nguru LGA of Yobe State.

Boat Accident: 25 Dead, 14 Missing In Yobe

Boat Accident in Yobe - 25 Dead, 14 Missing

On the evening of Saturday, January 3, 2026, tragedy struck in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while travelling from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi community in Yobe.

The accident occurred at approximately 7:48 pm, leaving devastation in its wake.

Tinubu Orders Military, Police, DSS To Hunt Down Terrorists Behind Niger State Attack

Tinubu Orders Military, Police, DSS To Hunt Down Terrorists Behind Niger State Attack

President Bola Tinubu has issued a decisive directive to Nigeria’s security architecture following a deadly terrorist assault on the Kasuwan Daji market in Niger State.

The attack, which claimed the lives of over 30 people and led to the abduction of numerous villagers, has drawn strong condemnation from the Presidency and triggered urgent orders for military and security agencies to act.

Why We Invited Pastor Chris Okafor for Questioning – Police

Why We Invited Pastor Chris Okafor for Questioning - Police

The Lagos State Police Command has formally invited Pastor Chris Okafor, Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, to answer allegations of sexual offences and conduct deemed capable of breaching public peace.

The controversy surrounding Pastor Okafor intensified after Nollywood actress Doris Ogala accused him of “mischief” in connection with a viral video showing the pastor proposing to another woman despite allegedly promising her marriage. This public accusation triggered a wave of further claims, including multiple allegations of rape, sexual misconduct, and other actions considered disruptive to law and order in Lagos State.

Troops Identify Shariff Umar as Suicide Bombing Coordinator, Seize Ammunition in Maiduguri

Troops Identify Shariff Umar as Suicide Bombing Coordinator, Seize Ammunition in Maiduguri

In a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, troops of the Joint Task Force North East under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have identified Shariff Umar as the principal coordinator of suicide bombing operations in Maiduguri and across the Northeast.

The announcement, made on January 3, 2026, underscores the military’s intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks responsible for recent deadly attacks.

PT Health Watch: Why prostate cancer tops cancer cases among Nigerian men – Expert

Editorial: Prostate Cancer - Nigeria’s Silent Epidemic Among Men

Prostate cancer has emerged as the leading cancer diagnosis among Nigerian men, a reality that underscores both a public health crisis and a call for urgent intervention.

According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022, Nigeria records over 18,000 new prostate cancer cases annually, making it the single most prevalent cancer among men in the country.

This staggering figure reflects not only the biological nature of the disease but also systemic gaps in awareness, screening, and healthcare access.

NAF Airstrikes Hit Terrorist Strongholds in North-East, North-West

NAF Airstrikes Hit Terrorist Strongholds in North-East, North-West

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the successful execution of multiple precision air operations against terrorist strongholds in both the North-East and North-West regions of the country.

These operations, carried out between January 1 and 3, 2026, were conducted under the joint task forces of Operations HADIN KAI and FASAN YAMMA Sector 2, targeting key threat corridors identified through intelligence assessments.

Nigeria’s 2026 Economic Outlook: A Year of Cautious Optimism

Nigeria’s 2026 Economic Outlook: A Year of Cautious Optimism

Nigeria enters 2026 with a sense of guarded confidence, as both government and financial institutions project stronger growth amid ongoing reforms.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) forecasts GDP expansion of 4.49%, up from an estimated 3.89% in 2025, signaling that the country’s economy is consolidating after years of turbulence.

The Impact of Peter Obi’s Defection Ahead of 2027

Symbolic Photo of Peter Obi

The Impact of Peter Obi’s Defection Ahead of 2027

Peter Obi’s dramatic defection from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the close of 2025 has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape.

More than a mere change of party affiliation, the move represents a recalibration of opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi, who emerged as a formidable force in 2023 with his “Obidient” movement, has now positioned himself within a coalition-backed platform, signaling both opportunity and uncertainty for Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.

ISWAP to Christians - “Convert or Die”

ISWAP to Christians - “Convert or Die”

Summary: The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has escalated its campaign of terror against Christian communities in northeastern Nigeria, issuing ultimatums that residents must either convert to Islam, pay a religious tax, or face death. These threats, accompanied by violent attacks such as the burning of villages, have sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns about religious persecution in the region.

The Attacks in Adamawa

In early January 2026, ISWAP militants set ablaze a Christian village in Adamawa State. The group released images of the destruction alongside a chilling statement declaring that all Christians in Nigeria are “legitimate targets.” According to security analyst Brant Philip, ISWAP insisted that Christians could “spare their blood” only by converting to Islam or paying the jizyah tax, a levy historically imposed on non-Muslims under extremist interpretations of Islamic law.

ISWAP Burns Christian Village In Adamawa

ISWAP Burns Christian Village in Adamawa

Summary: The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) has carried out a devastating attack on Christian communities in Adamawa State, Nigeria, burning villages, killing residents, and issuing a chilling ultimatum to convert to Islam or face death.

The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), an affiliate of ISIS, struck Christian villages in Adamawa State on December 31, 2025, leaving destruction and fear in its wake. The attack targeted communities in Hong Local Government Area, including Zah, Mubang Yadul, and Kijing. Reports confirm that more than fourteen people were killed, while numerous homes, churches, and businesses were vandalized or set ablaze.

Israel’s Support for Nigerian Christians and Its Geopolitical Ripples

Israel’s Support for Nigerian Christians and Its Geopolitical Ripples

Israel’s pledge to stand with Nigerian Christians carries profound geopolitical implications for Nigeria, Africa, and the broader international community.

At its core, this commitment introduces a new dimension to Nigeria’s already complex religious and political landscape. Nigeria, a nation deeply divided along religious lines, has long struggled with extremist violence targeting Christian communities, particularly in the Middle Belt and northern regions.

Israel Pledges Support for Nigerian Christians

Israel Pledges Support for Nigerian Christians

Israel has formally announced its commitment to supporting persecuted Christian communities in Nigeria, positioning itself as a global defender of Christian rights and freedoms.

In recent weeks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a series of statements highlighting Israel’s intention to stand firmly with Nigerian Christians who face ongoing persecution from extremist groups.

Nigeria: Nine killed in Plateau on cross-over Night

Nigeria - Nine Killed in Plateau on Crossover Night

On the night of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, tragedy struck in Plateau State, Nigeria, as gunmen launched a deadly attack on Chigwi village in Vwang District, Jos South Local Government Area.

The assault occurred during the crossover night celebrations, a period when communities traditionally gather to usher in the New Year with prayers and festivities. Instead of joy, the village was plunged into mourning as nine lives were lost in the violence.

Special Report: “I Was Paid N100,000 to Bomb”

“I Was Paid N100,000 to Bomb”

The phrase “I was paid N100,000.00 to Bomb” is a chilling statement that has surfaced in Nigeria in connection with terrorism, insurgency, and criminal violence. It reflects the disturbing reality of how extremist groups and criminal networks recruit vulnerable individuals with financial incentives to carry out acts of destruction.

This statement has been reported in various contexts, often linked to confessions by suspects arrested by security agencies.

In Nigeria, particularly in the northeast and north-central regions, insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and bandit networks have historically exploited poverty, unemployment, and desperation to lure recruits.

Background Story: “Terrorist - I Was Paid N100,000 to Bomb”

SUMMARY

The background story of “I Was Paid N100,000 to Bomb” comes from the confession of a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber, Ibrahim Mohammed, who admitted he was recruited and paid ₦100,000 to carry out a bombing attack on worshippers in Maiduguri, Borno State. He was arrested by Nigerian troops working with local hunters in Yobe State in late December 2025.

Background Story: “Terrorist - I Was Paid N100,000 to Bomb”

The phrase originates from the confession of Ibrahim Mohammed, a suspected Boko Haram operative from Michika in Adamawa State.

He was captured by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with local hunters, during a raid in Yobe State. His arrest followed suspicions raised by his unusual presence among a group of Almajirai in Damaturu.

Nigeria’s First Baby of 2026 in Global Context

Symbolic Photo of Nigeria's 2026 First Baby

Nigeria’s First Baby of 2026 in Global Context

The birth of Baby Enekole Zion Adakole, welcomed by Nigeria’s First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is not just a family milestone but a cultural emblem of renewal.

In Nigeria, the First Baby of the Year is celebrated as a national symbol of hope, prosperity, and continuity. This tradition elevates childbirth into a collective ritual, binding private joy with public optimism.

The First Lady’s presence and advocacy for maternal healthcare amplify the meaning, transforming the event into a platform for national reflection and policy emphasis.

The First Baby of 2026 and Nigeria’s Symbol of Renewal

Symbolic Photo

The First Baby of 2026 and Nigeria’s Symbol of Renewal

The arrival of Nigeria’s first baby of 2026, welcomed by the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja, is more than a ceremonial event. It is a cultural moment steeped in symbolism, one that resonates deeply with the Nigerian people.

In many communities across the country, the birth of a child on New Year’s Day is regarded as a divine sign of continuity, hope, and blessings. Such births are often seen as heralding a year of abundance, with families and communities interpreting them as omens of prosperity and peace. The First Baby of the Year becomes a living metaphor for renewal, embodying the collective aspirations of a nation stepping into a fresh chapter.

First Lady Welcomes First Baby of 2026

Nigeria’s First Lady Welcomes First Baby of 2026

On the dawn of January 1, 2026, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marked the beginning of the new year with a symbolic and heartfelt gesture at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.

At exactly midnight, the nation’s first baby of 2026 was delivered, a girl named Enekole Zion Adakole, born to 26-year-old first-time mother Patience Omeyi Adakole and her husband, Celestine Adakole.

Police Suspend Tinted Glass Permit Enforcement After Court Order

Police Suspend Tinted Glass Permit Enforcement After Court Order

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the suspension of its nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy following an interim court order.

This development comes after the Force had earlier declared on December 15, 2025, that enforcement would commence on January 2, 2026, citing its responsibility to safeguard public safety and internal security.

Obidient Movement Will Remain In ADC Despite Outcome Of Presidential Primary — Tanko Yunusa

Obidient Movement Will Remain in ADC Despite Outcome of Presidential Primary - Tanko Yunusa

The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Tanko Yunusa, has reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), declaring that the movement will remain within the party regardless of the outcome of its presidential primary.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Yunusa emphasized that the Obidient Movement, known for its support of former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, is firmly anchored in democratic principles and will abide by the party’s internal processes even if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerges as the ADC’s candidate.