Ending Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria

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Ending Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria

Date: February 9, 2026 Location: Abuja, Nigeria

As Nigeria joins the global community in marking the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), renewed calls for action have emerged from civil society, government agencies, and international partners.

With an estimated 20 million survivors, Nigeria remains one of the countries most affected by this deeply entrenched practice, which involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.

Despite federal bans and international commitments, FGM continues to persist in various regions, often justified by cultural, religious, or social norms. Advocates warn that without sustained commitment, stronger legislation, and increased investment, the progress recorded over the years could be reversed.

Nigeria’s Senate Declares Borrowing Unavoidable

Nigeria’s Senate Declares Borrowing Unavoidable

Date: February 9, 2026 Location: Abuja, Nigeria

In a sobering declaration that underscores Nigeria’s fiscal challenges, the Senate has warned that borrowing remains an unavoidable reality for the country’s economic survival.

This statement comes amid scrutiny of the Federal Government’s 2026 budget proposal, which includes a staggering ₦17.89 trillion borrowing plan to fund critical national expenditures.

Senator Adeola Olamilekan, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, made the announcement during a public hearing on the 2026 Appropriation Bill. He emphasized that while borrowing is not ideal, it is necessary given Nigeria’s current revenue constraints and the urgent need to sustain government operations and development projects.

Editorial Timeline: Occupy National Assembly Protest

A Cross-Section Photo of Major Participants at the Protest

Editorial Timeline: Occupy National Assembly Protest

The protest at Nigeria’s National Assembly, Monday, unfolded in a sequence that revealed both the intensity of public frustration and the determination of demonstrators to press for electoral transparency.

The morning began with groups of activists and civil society organizations gathering at the gates of the National Assembly. Their chants and placards carried a singular demand: the inclusion of real-time electronic transmission of election results in the Electoral Act. By mid-morning, the crowd had swelled, with youth groups and pro-democracy advocates joining in, creating a vibrant yet tense atmosphere.

Occupy National Assembly Protest in Abuja

A Cross-Section photo of participants at the protest

Occupy National Assembly Protest in Abuja

Yesterday, Abuja witnessed a major protest at the gates of the National Assembly, as citizens, civil society groups, and political figures converged under the banner of Occupy National Assembly.

The demonstration was sparked by the Senate’s rejection of a clause in the Electoral Act amendment bill that sought to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory. Protesters argued that real-time electronic transmission is essential to ensuring transparency, fairness, and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Combating the Wig Snatching Epidemic: Communities Fight Back

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Combating the Wig Snatching Epidemic: Communities Fight Back

The unsettling rise of wig snatching has sparked not only fear but also resilience. Communities, businesses, and individuals are beginning to respond with strategies that blend security, awareness, and cultural solidarity.  

One of the most immediate responses has been heightened vigilance. Women are increasingly cautious in public spaces, securing wigs with stronger adhesives or clips, and avoiding areas where incidents are known to occur.

Beauty salons and wig vendors have also stepped in, offering advice on protective styling and even developing products designed to make wigs harder to snatch.

Why hair/wig snatching is suddenly on the rise

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Hair Is the New Gold: Why Wig Snatching Is Suddenly on the Rise

In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged across Nigerian cities and beyond: the sudden rise of hair and wig snatching.

What was once dismissed as a prank or petty theft has evolved into a serious social issue, reflecting deeper economic, cultural, and criminal dynamics.  

At the heart of this phenomenon lies the booming global wig and hair extensions market, valued at over $4 billion and projected to grow rapidly in the coming years.

NUJ President Reaffirms Commitment to Reposition IIJ as Alumni Hold Inaugural Congress in Abuja

A cross-section photo of participants at the event

NUJ President Reaffirms Commitment to Reposition IIJ as Alumni Hold Inaugural Congress in Abuja

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdul, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to repositioning the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) as a globally competitive centre of excellence for journalism training in Nigeria.

This declaration was made during the inaugural congress of the IIJ Alumni Association, which took place at the institute’s premises in Jahi, Abuja.

The congress marked a historic moment for the alumni body, bringing together graduates of the institute, NUJ leadership, and key stakeholders in the media sector.

MEDIA RELEASE: ELECTORAL REFORMS AND THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN RESULT MANAGEMENT

NUJ LOGO

ELECTORAL REFORMS AND THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN RESULT MANAGEMENT

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has taken note of recent legislative deliberations concerning the framework for the conduct of future elections, particularly issues relating to the handling and movement of results from polling units.

As a professional body committed to democratic development, accountability, and public confidence in governance, the NUJ believes that clarity in electoral procedures is fundamental to national stability. Any ambiguity in the management of election outcomes risks eroding public trust and heightening tension within the polity.

NUJ President Reaffirms Commitment to Reposition IIJ as Alumni Hold Inaugural Congress in Abuja

 NUJ President Reaffirms Commitment to Reposition IIJ as Alumni Hold Inaugural Congress in Abuja

The President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade  Alhassan Yahya Abdul, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to repositioning the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) as a globally competitive centre of excellence for journalism training in Nigeria.

‎Comrade Abdul gave the assurance on Friday during the inaugural congress of the IIJ Alumni Association held at the IIJ premises in Jahi, Abuja.

Nigerians react as Wike and his support group launch Rivers-based radio station to campaign for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

Nigerians React to Wike’s Radio Station Launch for Tinubu’s 2027 Campaign

The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn with the unveiling of a new radio station by former governor Nyesom Wike and his support group.

The station, according to reports, is designed to serve as a platform to promote President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027. This development has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria, reflecting both political enthusiasm and deep divisions.

Bandits k!ll three, abduct Catholic priest and 10 others in Kaduna

Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church,

Bandits Kill Three, Abduct Catholic Priest and 10 Others in Kaduna

Kaduna State has once again been thrust into the spotlight of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis following a violent attack by armed bandits. The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 7, 2026, left three people dead and resulted in the abduction of a Catholic priest along with ten other residents. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for urgent government action to address the escalating wave of violence in the region.

The Incident

The attack took place around 3:20 a.m. in Karku village, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna. Witnesses reported that the bandits stormed the community, shooting indiscriminately and causing widespread panic. Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, was among those abducted. Alongside him, ten other villagers were taken away by the assailants. The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the abduction in a statement, expressing deep sorrow and urging prayers for the safe return of the victims.

Domestic Violence in Nigeria and the Tragic Case of a Son Burning His Parents’ Home

A symbolic photo of a cracked house

Editorial: Domestic Violence in Nigeria and the Tragic Case of a Son Burning His Parents’ Home

The recent incident of a 35-year-old man setting his parents’ house on fire after his father refused to give him money is not just an isolated act of rage; it is emblematic of a broader crisis of domestic violence in Nigeria.

This shocking event illustrates how unresolved family tensions, economic frustrations, and emotional instability can culminate in destructive outcomes that devastate households and communities alike.

Domestic violence in Nigeria has reached alarming levels. Data from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) shows thousands of reported cases in 2025 alone, with women and children disproportionately affected.

35-year-old man sets his parents' house on fire after father refused to give him money

The Burn House

35-Year-Old Man Sets Parents’ House on Fire After Father Refuses Money

In a shocking incident that underscores the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into violence, a 35-year-old man has been reported to have deliberately set his parents’ house ablaze after his father refused to give him money. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the severity of the act and the tragic consequences it poses for family safety and community stability.

The Incident

According to reports, the man approached his father demanding financial assistance. When his request was denied, he allegedly resorted to arson, setting fire to the family home. The blaze quickly engulfed the property, leaving behind significant destruction. Neighbors and community members were alarmed by the sudden outbreak of fire, and emergency responders were called to the scene to contain the damage.

The Strategy That Delivered Kano to the Presidential Party

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State

The Strategy That Delivered Kano to the Presidential Party

On January 26, 2026, Kano State underwent a dramatic political realignment that reshaped Nigeria’s electoral landscape.

Governor Abba Yusuf, elected in 2023 under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and once a protégé of Rabiu Kwankwaso, formally returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

This move was not a solitary defection but a sweeping migration that carried nearly the entire state apparatus with him. Twenty-two of the 24 members of the State Assembly, nine federal lawmakers, and all 44 local government chairmen followed suit, creating the impression of a coordinated and calculated shift rather than fragmented political opportunism.

Sassou N’guesso to seek another term, cementing Congo’s longest-running presidency

Sassou N’guesso to Seek Another Term, Cementing Congo’s Longest-Running Presidency

President Denis Sassou N’guesso of the Republic of Congo has announced his candidacy for the March 2026 presidential election, a move that underscores his enduring grip on power and cements his position as the country’s longest-serving leader.

At 82 years old, Sassou N’guesso made the declaration during a public event in Bambou Mingali, north of Brazzaville, signaling his intent to extend a political career that has spanned nearly five decades.

Pope condemns deadly attacks in Nigeria

Pope Condemns Deadly Attacks in Nigeria

Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the recent wave of deadly attacks in Nigeria, expressing deep sorrow and concern over the escalating violence. His remarks come after reports of mass killings in Kwara State and other regions, where hundreds of lives were lost in one of the deadliest incidents in recent months. The pontiff’s intervention underscores the gravity of the crisis and the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect citizens.  

Details of the Attacks

The violence, reportedly carried out by armed extremists, targeted communities in Kwara State and surrounding areas. Witnesses described gunmen storming villages, burning shops, and destroying property. Estimates suggest that between 162 and 200 people were killed, making it one of the most devastating assaults in Nigeria’s recent history.  

Stop Mass Killings, Abductions, Other Forms of Violence, Catholic Church Tells FG

Special Report: Catholic Church Urges FG to Halt Mass Killings, Abductions, and Violence in Nigeria

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has raised a strong and urgent appeal to the Federal Government (FG), demanding immediate and decisive action to stop the escalating wave of mass killings, abductions, and other forms of violence plaguing the nation. This call comes amid rising insecurity, particularly in northern and central regions, where communities, schools, and places of worship have increasingly become targets of armed groups.

Background of the Crisis

Nigeria has witnessed a disturbing surge in violent attacks, including mass kidnappings of schoolchildren, killings of villagers, and abductions of clergy and worshippers. One of the most alarming incidents occurred in Niger State, where over 300 students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic Co-education School were abducted during an early morning raid by armed bandits. The Catholic Church, alongside other religious and civil society organizations, has condemned these acts as gross violations of human dignity and fundamental rights. 

“Nigeria cannot afford to normalize bloodshed”: Catholic Secretariat Condemns Mass Killings, Demands Urgent Action

CSN Secretary General, Fr. Michael Banjo (left), and the National Director of Social Communications, Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh (right). Credit: ACI Africa

“Nigeria Cannot Afford to Normalize Bloodshed” - Catholic Secretariat Condemns Mass Killings, Demands Urgent Action

On February 7, 2026, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), the administrative headquarters of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), issued a powerful statement denouncing the relentless wave of killings and abductions across the country. The Secretariat warned that Nigeria is dangerously sliding into a culture of normalized violence, where bloodshed and impunity have become routine, eroding the very foundations of governance and human dignity.  

The Cry Against Violence

The CSN described the current situation as a “field of grief,” lamenting that countless communities have been devastated by repeated attacks, abductions, and killings. Despite years of complaints and promises from authorities, violence continues unchecked, leaving citizens weary of empty condolences that fail to guarantee their safety. The Secretariat expressed profound outrage and sorrow at what it termed an “assault on human life and dignity,” stressing that Nigeria is descending into a “slaughterhouse” where human lives are treated as expendable. 

Message by the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Ignatius Kaigama

Archbishop I. A. Kaigama

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A, at St. Mark’s Pastoral Area, Gbuduwyi, Abuja, 08.02.2026. 

Homily by Archbishop I. A. Kaigama

Readings: Isaiah 58:7–10; 1 Corinthians 2:1–5; Matthew 5:13–16

Theme: Christians, called to be the flavour of life (salt) and light that dispels the darkness of evil

I sincerely thank your priest-in-charge, Fr. Clement Ujah, the catechist, lay leaders, and all the faithful of St. Mark’s Pastoral Area, Gbuduwyi, for your warm welcome and for your dedication, which I have heard about and now see and experience. This is evident in the number of those to be confirmed today, the installation of your new tabernacle, and your new grotto of our Lady, which we shall bless. You have really grown, considering how you started from a humble beginning, celebrating Mass under a tree in 2015, then becoming an outstation of St. Rita Dakwo, and now, a pastoral area on the highway to becoming a parish by God’s grace and the cooperation of all of you.

Two presidents, scores of dignitaries in attendance as Defence Minister Matawalle's 10 children get married in one day

A Historic Wedding Celebration in Nigeria

In a remarkable display of grandeur and tradition, Defence Minister Bello Matawalle hosted an extraordinary event in which ten of his children were married on the same day.

The ceremony, held in Nigeria, drew an impressive assembly of dignitaries, including two sitting presidents, senior government officials, traditional rulers, and prominent figures from across the country and beyond.

The scale of the occasion underscored both the minister’s influence and the cultural significance of family celebrations in Nigerian society.

American missionary accuses Benue government of attempting to sabotage his plans of rebuilding Yelwata village which was attacked by bandits

American Missionary Alleges Benue Government Sabotage in Yelwata Village Reconstruction

An American missionary working in Nigeria has accused the Benue State government of deliberately attempting to sabotage his humanitarian project aimed at rebuilding Yelwata village, a community recently ravaged by bandit attacks.

The missionary, who has been active in relief and reconstruction efforts across the Middle Belt, claims that his initiative to restore homes and provide basic infrastructure for displaced villagers has been obstructed by state authorities.

Türkiye’s Expanding Military Role and Nigeria’s Geopolitical Balancing Act

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Editorial: Türkiye’s Expanding Military Role and Nigeria’s Geopolitical Balancing Act

The Kwara tragedy has not only shaken Nigeria but also drawn the world’s attention to the country’s ongoing struggle against terrorism.

While the United States and the United Nations have condemned the killings and lauded Nigeria’s troop deployments, Türkiye’s pledge of military support introduces a new dimension to Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy.

This editorial examines how Ankara’s growing presence in Africa could reshape Nigeria’s relations with the United States, France, and ECOWAS, and what this means for regional stability.

Türkiye’s Military Pledge and Nigeria’s Counterterrorism Future

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Editorial: Türkiye’s Military Pledge and Nigeria’s Counterterrorism Future

The massacre in Kwara State has once again exposed the fragility of Nigeria’s security architecture and the devastating human toll of unchecked violence.

International condemnation has been swift, with the United States and the United Nations denouncing the killings, while Türkiye has gone further by pledging military support. This editorial explores how Ankara’s commitment could reshape Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy and alter the balance of regional security in West Africa.

Türkiye’s pledge is not merely symbolic. Ankara has steadily expanded its defense footprint across Africa, supplying drones, training, and military hardware to several states grappling with insurgencies.

US Condemn Kwara Attack, Laud Nigerian Troops Deployment As Türkiye Pledges Military Support

Special Report: International Condemnation of Kwara Attack and Nigeria’s Security Response

On February 5, 2026, tragedy struck Woro and neighboring Nuku communities in Kwara State, Nigeria, when gunmen carried out a devastating assault that left at least 75 people dead, destroyed homes, and forced residents to flee. The attack has drawn strong condemnation from the United Nations, the United States, and Türkiye, while Nigeria has responded with significant troop deployments to restore security. This report examines the international reactions, Nigeria’s domestic response, and the broader implications for regional stability.

International Condemnation

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, described the attack as “heinous” and extended condolences to the victims’ families and the Nigerian government. His statement emphasized solidarity with Nigeria and called for swift recovery for the injured.

NIGERIA'S ELECTION RESULTS: REAL-TIME TRANSMISSION OR NON-REAL-TIME TRANSFER?

NIGERIA'S ELECTION RESULTS: REAL-TIME TRANSMISSION OR NON-REAL-TIME TRANSFER?

The debate over Nigeria’s election results centers on whether outcomes should be transmitted electronically in real time from polling units or transferred later through prescribed procedures. This distinction has become one of the most contentious issues in electoral reform, shaping both public trust and the credibility of future elections.

The controversy stems from the provisions of the Electoral Act and recent amendments debated in the Nigerian Senate. While many Nigerians expected that the law would mandate real-time electronic transmission of results directly from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) result viewing portal, lawmakers opted instead for electronic transfer without the real-time requirement. This decision has sparked widespread debate, with critics arguing that it undermines transparency and opens the door to manipulation.