The Nigerian Army has stepped up its nationwide counter-terrorism and crime-fighting operations, neutralising eight terrorists, arresting 51 suspects, and rescuing 27 victims between 29 November and 1 December 2025.
In Borno State, troops from the 151 Task Force Battalion, 152 Task Force Battalion, and 192 Battalion conducted ambush and clearance operations that resulted in the neutralisation of four ISWAP/JAS fighters. Soldiers recovered three AK-47 rifles, four magazines, hundreds of assorted rounds of ammunition, an AK-47 working part, and a Baofeng radio.
Troops also successfully thwarted infiltration attempts around Chibok.
Across Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States, personnel operating under Operation WHIRL STROKE and Operation ENDURING PEACE rescued 20 victims, including women and a minor.
Arrests in these areas included suspected kidnappers, human traffickers, extremist collaborators, illegal miners, cult members, and a gunrunner.
Troops in Taraba neutralised four violent extremists in Karim Lamido, seizing weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles.
In Delta State, soldiers apprehended two suspected cultists and confiscated a locally made pistol, cartridges, and mobile phones.
In Plateau State, troops recovered 76 rustled cattle and returned them to their rightful owners.
In the South-South region, anti-oil theft operations led to the closure of an illegal refining site containing roughly 1,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Joint operations with the NDLEA resulted in the arrest of 25 drug suspects in Bayelsa and Rivers States.
In Kaduna State, troops intercepted vehicles carrying 5,000 kg of gelatine explosives, 3,000 metres of cordtex fuse, 10 electric detonators, and 1,000 metres of connecting wire.
Investigations are ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies.
One of the period’s major breakthroughs was the arrest of the alleged notorious gunrunner Shuaibu Isah, also known as Alhaji, who was reportedly attempting to receive 1,000 rounds of ammunition from associates still being tracked.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and ensuring that terrorists, criminals, and their collaborators are denied any safe haven.
Nigeria is set to take another major step toward a more digital financial system as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) unveils new cash-related policies effective January 1, 2026.
The revised framework aims to reduce the high cost of managing physical cash, enhance security, and discourage the hoarding of large amounts of currency. While the CBN continues to promote digital payments, it acknowledges that many Nigerians still rely heavily on cash for daily transactions.
The changes were announced in a circular titled “Revised Cash-Related Policies” issued on December 3, 2025, by Dr. Rita Sike, Director of Financial Policy and Regulation. This new directive replaces more than twenty earlier guidelines, marking one of the most significant policy overhauls since the 2022 cash redesign crisis.
What Has Changed?
Cash deposits are now completely free, with no limits and no penalties. Individuals and businesses can deposit any amount without incurring additional charges, a major relief for traders, market operators, and others who routinely handle large volumes of cash.
However, weekly cash withdrawal limits have been tightened:
Individuals: Up to ₦500,000 per week
Businesses: Up to ₦5 million per week
Withdrawals that exceed these limits attract penalties, 3% for individuals and 5% for businesses. These charges will be shared between the CBN and the processing bank.
ATM withdrawals are capped at ₦100,000 per day, and these count toward the weekly limit. All naira denominations will now be stocked in ATMs for better accessibility.
Additionally, third-party cheques above ₦100,000 can no longer be cashed over the counter and will also count toward the withdrawal limit.
The previous system that granted special waivers, allowing individuals to withdraw up to ₦5 million and corporates up to ₦10 million monthly, has been scrapped.
Banks are now required to maintain detailed monthly reports of all cash deposits and withdrawals above the approved limits and forward them to the CBN.
Who Is Exempt?
Government accounts at the federal, state, and local levels remain exempt from the new withdrawal limits.
Microfinance banks, primary mortgage institutions, and select non-interest financial institutions are also excluded from the caps.
However, embassies, diplomatic missions, and international donor agencies will now operate under the same withdrawal restrictions as the general public.
Why the Policy Matters
Nigeria has spent more than a decade trying to reduce its dependence on cash. The cashless policy introduced in 2012 sought to lower operational costs, curb corruption, and modernize Nigeria’s financial system.
There have been notable gains. In 2025, Nigeria was removed from the FATF grey list, reflecting improvements in anti–money laundering controls. Electronic payment adoption has also surged, with billions of transactions recorded in 2025.
Yet, many Nigerians still operate in cash-heavy environments. Limited internet access in rural areas and lingering distrust in digital platforms continue to slow progress.
The CBN’s new approach attempts a middle ground—promoting digital payments while accommodating the realities of the informal sector.
Experts are divided. Some view the policy as a balanced and practical adjustment. Others warn that increased cash usage could worsen inflation or raise currency in circulation at a time when Nigeria is still battling rising prices and a volatile naira.
How It Affects You
For many Nigerians, especially traders and cash handlers, the removal of deposit limits is a welcome relief. Individuals can now deposit high-value cash without fear of extra charges.
However, the ₦500,000 weekly withdrawal cap may pose challenges for people who depend heavily on cash, such as event planners, wholesalers, and market operators. Individuals who exceed the limit will pay a 3% penalty on the excess amount.
Businesses have more flexibility with a ₦5 million weekly limit, but they are encouraged to adopt digital payment channels such as PoS, mobile banking, and transfers to avoid penalties and streamline operations.
In addition, the CBN now mandates banks to refund verified cases of digital fraud within 72 hours, making cybersecurity more critical than ever.
Way Forward
The revised withdrawal policy reflects a future where cash remains relevant but no longer dominant. With full implementation expected before the end of 2025, customers are advised to consult their banks and prepare ahead.
Nigeria’s financial landscape is rapidly evolving. Understanding these changes will help individuals and businesses adapt as the nation advances toward a safer, more efficient cash-light economy.
The Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday suspended its chairman, Alphonsus Ogar Eba, following a decisive vote of no confidence by members of the State Executive Committee (SEC) amid ongoing internal disputes.
Eba’s removal was backed by 30 of the 32 SEC members, after months of allegations including financial mismanagement, authoritarian leadership, and the prolonged closure of the party secretariat.
In the aftermath of his suspension, the SEC immediately appointed Deputy Chairman Ntufam Ekum Ekok Ojogu as Acting Chairman, pending formal ratification by the APC National Secretariat.
Party officials described the decision as essential to stop the worsening crisis within the state chapter.
Chief Kelvin Njong, APC Chairman in Boki and spokesperson for the 18 chapter chairmen, stated that the impeachment followed extensive consultations and formal petitions submitted to the national leadership.
Upon assuming office, Ojogu pledged to reopen the party secretariat, reconcile aggrieved members, and ensure transparency in administration. He expressed gratitude to stakeholders for respecting due process and reaffirmed the chapter’s support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
“All grievances must be set aside so we can rebuild. All entitlements owed will be addressed. My doors and phone lines are open 24/7. It is time to sheath our swords,” Ojogu stated.
He also praised ward leaders, polling unit coordinators, and volunteers for maintaining party activities at the grassroots during the crisis and promised to work closely with Governor Otu to strengthen the “People First” agenda.
Following the inauguration, SEC members and chapter chairmen held a closed-door meeting to outline restructuring plans and prepare a formal report for submission to the APC National Secretariat.
It’s that time of year again, the festive rush! Shoppers are excited, demand spikes, and businesses are either smiling to the bank or struggling to keep up. This season is unique because the whole world slows down to celebrate, rest and enjoy, which creates a surge in activities across industries.
To truly maximize this demand, businesses must avoid planning in December. Instead, they should prepare ahead: organize finances, stock up early and map out how to meet the inevitable increase in customer needs while maintaining quality.
And when it comes to satisfying customers during this peak period, problem-solving is everything. Whatever service you offer must address a seasonal need, sell in a way that solves your customer’s pain points and prioritizes quality. Offer multiple solutions, create easier pathways for customers and work with knowledgeable consultants who understand the dynamics of the festive market.
The Lagos Tenancy Bill is a landmark proposal that could redefine how landlords, tenants and agents relate across the state. It touches on key areas like rent payments, eviction rules, agency fees and dispute resolution, making it essential for anyone who rents or owns property.
It also raises important questions on how much rent can be collected upfront, what happens when a landlord increases rent suddenly like a 60% jump without notice and whether the bill places stronger maintenance obligations on landlords.
At the end of the day, understanding how rent will be structured, what rights and responsibilities each party carries and how agents will be regulated will help Lagos residents move through the rental market more confidently.
Leeds United delivered a statement performance on 3 December 2025 at Elland Road, defeating Chelsea 3–1, a result that not only ended a four-match losing streak but also lifted the club out of the relegation zone.
From the outset, Leeds imposed themselves on the match. In just the 6th minute, a corner delivered by Anton Stach found defender Jaka Bijol, who rose unmarked to power a header past Robert Sánchez and give Leeds the lead.
As the first half progressed, Leeds continued to press, and just before halftime, Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka unleashed a fierce 20-yard strike into the bottom corner — doubling the lead and giving the home side a significant advantage at the break.
Chelsea, sluggish in the first half, made changes at halftime in search of a response. Early in the second half, substitute Pedro Neto met a low cross and converted to pull one back for the Blues.
But Leeds refused to panic. In the 72nd minute, a defensive lapse by Chelsea allowed Dominic Calvert-Lewin to tap home from close range and restore the two-goal cushion. That goal proved decisive.
When the final whistle blew, it was clear: Leeds had produced one of their best performances this season. The tactical switch to a back three, resilient defending and rapid, efficient attacking paid off.
What This Result Means
For Leeds: The win lifts them out of the relegation zone, a critical boost in morale and confidence, especially under pressure after a string of defeats.
For Chelsea: The defeat is a serious blow to their aspirations; sloppy defending, lack of control, and failure to seize possession cost them dearly. The result adds to mounting questions about consistency and defensive stability under manager Enzo Maresca.
As Leeds’ boss Daniel Farke put it: “It’s for nights like this that we were so desperate to bring the club back to the top level. Elland Road tonight was back to its best.”
Other Premier League Results on 3 December 2025
The 3–1 Leeds–Chelsea game wasn’t the only drama of the night. Other notable results included:
Arsenal eased to a 2–0 win at home over Brentford, re-establishing a five-point lead at the top of the table.
Aston Villa edged out a wild 4–3 victory away at Brighton & Hove Albion in a thrilling contest, underlining the unpredictable nature of this season’s mid-table.
Together, the results made it a night of shifting dynamics — punishing losses for top-side aspirants, and lifelines for struggling teams fighting relegation.
Looking Ahead: What Comes Next
For Leeds, this surge could mark a turning point. With confidence back and momentum restored, the next few fixtures — including a looming challenge against Liverpool — will test whether this win was a one-off or the start of a revival.
For Chelsea, the task is urgent: defensive solidity and tactical discipline must return quickly if they are to salvage any realistic pursuit of top-four or title ambitions. The flaws exposed tonight under Maresca’s side are too glaring to ignore.
Human rights activist and Director-General of the Centre for Justice and Rights, Rev. Musa Dikwa, has raised fresh concerns over what he describes as the persistent persecution of Christians in Borno State. He also accused the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state of hypocrisy and “selling out” their members.
In a statement made available to journalists, Rev. Dikwa alleged that five Christians are currently being detained at a correctional facility in Borno State, awaiting trial over what he called “concocted allegations” of kidnapping and human trafficking involving one Aisha Kabiru. According to him, the prosecution team handling the matter consists of government lawyers, a situation he believes calls for concern.
Rev. Dikwa criticised Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, accusing him of presenting a false image of religious harmony despite the ongoing case.
“This same governor ordered Muslims and Christians to pray for the state and convened an inter-faith meeting to deceive the public into believing he values Christian lives. Sadly, CAN leaders attended this meeting. Who exactly is fooling who?” he said.
He expressed deep disappointment with the Christian leadership in Borno, accusing them of prioritising personal gain over the welfare of their members.
“Christian leaders in Borno State have sold out. They met with the governor and rubbished themselves because of selfishness and greed. Christians across Nigeria are disappointed,” he said.
Rev. Dikwa listed the detained Christians as:
Binta Mamman
Lami Samuel Dawa
Esther Simon
Yusuf Anuwa
Amos Suleiman
He alleged that while extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have attacked Christian communities for years, the situation is worsened by what he described as the “compromised posture” of the state CAN leadership.
He specifically criticised Borno CAN Chairman, Bishop John Bakeni, accusing him of downplaying the challenges faced by Christians in the state. Dikwa also dismissed claims that 45 churches were reconstructed under the Zulum administration.
According to him, any church renovations carried out in Borno were done during the tenure of former governor Kashim Shettima, allegedly under pressure from the international community, not under Governor Zulum.
“Zulum did not reconstruct a single church. Unfortunately, CAN leaders have been compromised, which is why the governor continues to ridicule them,” he alleged.
Rev. Dikwa called for transparency, accountability, and stronger advocacy from Christian leaders in the state, insisting that the plight of persecuted Christians should never be politicised.
Nigeria’s head coach Éric Sékou Chelle has cast a wide net as he prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, unveiling a 54-player provisional Super Eagles list that mixes established stars, returning veterans, and domestic standouts. The move signals fierce competition for places ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
Among the notable returns on the list are forward Victor Boniface and former Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho, both of whom were named after recent absences from some national call-ups. Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho also makes the preliminary list, bolstering the options between the posts. The selection has been published by the Nigeria Football Federation and circulated widely by national media.
Chelle’s list retains the big names that Nigerians expect to see at a major tournament. Sources covering the release say the squad includes established internationals such as Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi alongside younger prospects and several players drawn from the Nigeria Professional Football League — an indication of Chelle’s intent to balance experience with fresh energy.
The provisional list also carries a few disappointments: fast-rising defender Benjamin Fredrick is reported to be out with a knee injury and will miss the tournament selection process, according to media outlets tracking the announcement. Teams will monitor the fitness of other players in the days ahead as Chelle and his backroom staff finalise preparations.
AFCON 2025 in Morocco is scheduled to run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. The 54-player list is purely provisional — a preliminary step required so coaching teams can evaluate options during training camps and warm-up fixtures before submitting a final squad for the tournament.
Chelle will now begin the task of trimming the roster. Media reports say the list is expected to be reduced in stages ahead of the competition, with intense scrutiny on form, fitness and tactical fit as the coach chooses the final group that will travel to Morocco. The naming of a large provisional squad gives Chelle flexibility but also raises the stakes for players hoping to secure one of the limited places in the final matchday squad.
Officials have announced that efforts to locate the long-lost aircraft will restart on 30 December, marking the first major renewed attempt in more than ten years.
The search for the wreckage of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 will resume on 30 December, over a decade after the aircraft with 239 people on board vanished, Malaysian authorities have said. This renewed operation, intended to last 55 days, originally commenced in March but was put on hold soon after due to severe weather.
This fresh search, which will run for 55 days, had begun in March but was suspended shortly after because of poor weather conditions. The transport ministry stated that the new progress highlights a determination to offer long-awaited closure to families who have endured years of uncertainty.
“The latest development underscores the [Malaysia’s] commitment to providing closure to the families affected by this tragedy,” the transport ministry said Wednesday, according to local media. The flight, a Boeing 777 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing in 2014, disappeared in circumstances that led to the most extensive aviation recovery effort ever mounted.
Flight MH370, a Boeing 777, disappeared in 2014 while travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing and sparked the largest search in aviation history. The ongoing mission is being conducted by the exploration company under an agreement guaranteeing payment only if the missing aircraft is located.
Exploration firm Ocean Infinity is leading the current search under a “no find, no fee” arrangement. It will receive $70m (£56m) if the wreckage is found, Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook earlier said. Earlier searches included a massive international deployment of ships and aircraft, and a later investigation by the same company was halted after several months.
Previous attempts include a multinational search involving 60 ships and 50 aircraft from 26 countries, which ended in 2017, and a 2018 effort by Ocean Infinity ended after three months. Less than an hour after departure on 8 March 2014, the plane ceased communication with controllers, and tracking data indicated a significant change in course.
Flight MH370 lost contact with air traffic control less than an hour after take-off on 8 March 2014, and radar showed it had deviated from its original flight path. To this day, the disappearance remains one of the most perplexing events in modern aviation, leaving families searching for answers and closure.
It remains one of the greatest aviation mysteries, which continues to haunt the families of those on board. Over the years, many had called for a new search, noting their struggle to find closure. The tragedy has also fueled numerous speculative theories, ranging from deliberate action by the pilot to the possibility of an unlawful takeover.
The incident has also given rise to a host of conspiracy theories, including speculation that the pilot had deliberately brought the plane down or that it had been hijacked. An inquiry concluded that the aircraft was likely intentionally steered off course, though investigators could not determine who was responsible or why.
An investigation in 2018 found that the plane’s controls were likely deliberately manipulated to take it off course, but drew no conclusions behind it. Experts at the time stressed that only the discovery of the aircraft itself could provide definitive answers to the tragedy.
Investigators said at the time that “the answer can only be conclusive if the wreckage is found”.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated retired General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, stepping into the role at a time of heightened insecurity marked by banditry, insurgency, and mass kidnappings.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 2, a day after the sudden resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down citing health concerns.
The Senate is expected to screen Musa today, with expectations of a swift confirmation to ensure continuity and stability in the nation’s security leadership.
Musa’s return to public service comes barely a month after his retirement as the 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), a position he held from June 2023 to October 2025. His nomination has drawn support from former senior military officers, many of whom describe him as a disciplined strategist capable of driving reforms, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and restoring public confidence in the defence sector.
Early Life
Born on December 25, 1967, in Sokoto, Musa hails from Zangon Kataf in Southern Kaduna. He completed his primary and secondary education in Sokoto, including Federal Government College, Sokoto, where his interest in national service began to take shape.
After a brief study period at the College of Advanced Studies, Zaria, he was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the 38th Regular Combatant Course in 1986. He graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor’s degree and was commissioned into the Infantry Corps as a Second Lieutenant, marking the start of a distinguished military career spanning more than three decades.
Career Path
In his early years, Musa focused on infantry operations, training, and staff duties. He steadily rose through the ranks, serving in key positions such as Commanding Officer of the 73 Battalion and General Staff Officer in charge of Training and Operations at the 81 Division.
His national prominence grew during the fight against Boko Haram. From 2019 to 2021, he simultaneously commanded Sector 3 of Operation Lafiya Dole and Sector 3 of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), coordinating major multinational offensives across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
He later became Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast, where he led critical anti-terrorism missions, boosted troop morale, and strengthened civil-military relations. In 2022, he was appointed Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps, overseeing training, doctrine development, and operational readiness.
His Tenure as Chief of Defence Staff
Appointed Chief of Defence Staff on June 23, 2023, Musa led the Armed Forces with a focus on professionalism, joint operations, and a humanitarian-driven approach to security.
Under his leadership, operations against bandits in the Northwest intensified, and coordination between the military and civilian authorities improved. He also pushed for reduced military involvement in political VIP escorts, arguing that frontline operations should be prioritized.
Although he retired in October 2025 during a broad military reshuffle, his swift nomination back into the nation’s security architecture highlights the administration’s confidence in his experience and leadership.
Awards and Recognition
General Musa has received several honours, including:
Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)
Colin Powell Meritorious Award for Soldiering (2012)
Nigeria Service Awards – Lifetime Achievement Award (2023)
Grand Service Star and Field Command Medal of Honour
His Atyap community in Kaduna also conferred on him the chieftaincy title “Tswung Atyap” (Pillar of Atyap) in recognition of his contributions to peace and unity.
What His Nomination Means for Nigeria
With multiple security challenges stretching Nigeria’s defence capabilities, expectations surrounding Musa’s nomination are high. Analysts say his wealth of experience in counter-insurgency operations and troop management could inject renewed urgency into policy execution at the Ministry of Defence.
Former colleagues describe him as calm, thorough, and detribalized—qualities many believe Nigeria urgently needs in its security leadership.
If confirmed, General Christopher Gwabin Musa will be one of the youngest Nigerians to head the Defence Ministry since the return to democracy, and potentially a pivotal figure in efforts to restore stability and protect vulnerable communities nationwide.
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