Africa is once again facing the unsettling resurgence of military takeovers. Just days ago, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan who led the West African Elders Forum to observe elections in Guinea-Bissau claimed that President Umaro Embaló effectively staged his own coup to avoid losing power.
This so-called “ceremonial coup” adds to a growing list of unconstitutional changes of government across the continent, from Burkina Faso to Mali, Niger, Gabon, and now Guinea-Bissau. These events underscore persistent challenges around governance, legitimacy, and the effectiveness of Western-style democracy, which in many cases has exposed structural weaknesses inherited from colonial rule. At the same time, emerging African leaders, exemplified by figures like Captain Ibrahim Traoré, are prompting renewed discussions on sovereignty, self-determination, and the type of governance Africa truly needs.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled 32 new ambassadorial nominees, sparking debate over several high-profile figures, including INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, presidential aide Reno Omokri, and former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode.
With strong public personas and political histories that have dominated media narratives, these nominations have raised questions about whether such individuals can effectively project Nigeria’s image abroad and uphold the credibility of its foreign missions.
As the nominees await Senate confirmation, Nigerians are demanding transparency, merit, and accountability. In an era of shifting global alliances, diplomats must embody professionalism and integrity, not serve as political rewards or shelters for controversy. The Senate’s decisions and public scrutiny will shape how Nigeria’s image is perceived internationally, reminding all that our country’s reputation is a collective asset that must be protected.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, stepped down on Monday evening, citing health challenges. His resignation has sparked national debate and reshaped the political atmosphere amid the country’s escalating security crisis.
While the presidency maintains that the resignation was for medical reasons, the timing, just days after President Bola Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency, has fueled speculation that the move may be more strategic than voluntary.
His Appointment
Badaru was appointed Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023, as part of President Tinubu’s inaugural cabinet.
A former governor of Jigawa State, an accountant, and business magnate with deep ties in northern political circles, Badaru was viewed as a stabilizing figure. During his governorship (2015–2023), he oversaw agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. His experience managing volatile northwestern states made him an appealing choice for a cabinet seeking regional balance and political cohesion.
Tinubu praised his “economic insight and administrative discipline,” emphasizing that his governance skills could strengthen defence procurement, technological upgrades, and regional security cooperation.
Under his tenure, Badaru pushed for military modernization and cross-border intelligence coordination with Niger and Chad. However, as insecurity intensified, scrutiny of his leadership grew.
The Security Crisis
Badaru’s time in office coincided with one of Nigeria’s most violent periods in recent history. Armed groups escalated attacks across the northwest and north-central regions, and mass abductions became increasingly common.
Recent incidents alone include:
Over 300 staff and students were kidnapped from St. Mary’s School in Niger State on November 21
24 students abducted in Kebbi State
38 worshippers abducted from a CAC church in Ekiti
A bride and her convoy taken in Sokoto
A pastor and his wife were kidnapped in Kogi
Three immigration officers were murdered at a checkpoint in Katsina
These events revived painful memories of the 2014 Chibok abductions and raised renewed questions about the government’s control over security.
Critics argued that Badaru lacked the tactical background necessary for the Defence Ministry. A recent BBC interview, in which he claimed some bandits were hiding “too deep in the forest” for airstrikes to reach, sparked backlash and reinforced perceptions of an overwhelmed ministry.
Pressure intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” in October, alleging targeted killings of Christians. Abuja rejected the claims, but the designation drew international attention and domestic criticism.
President Tinubu’s subsequent nationwide emergency declaration, including the recruitment of 20,000 police officers and the deployment of forest guards, further spotlighted Badaru’s performance and the ministry’s shortcomings.
Why He Resigned
The official reason is health-related: Badaru cited medical concerns in a December 1 letter to President Tinubu. The presidency accepted the resignation, with spokesman Bayo Onanuga emphasizing respect for Badaru’s service.
Yet the sequence of events hints at political undertones. Just hours before the announcement, Tinubu held a private meeting with retired Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, prompting speculation that a replacement was already in the works. Musa’s retirement in October and his extensive counter-insurgency experience make him a strong candidate.
In Nigerian politics, citing “health reasons” is often a dignified way to exit under political pressure. Many analysts believe that mounting attacks, public outrage, and diplomatic tensions made Badaru’s departure almost inevitable.
Social Media Reactions
Social media platforms, particularly X, erupted after the announcement, with #BadaruResigns trending:
@EkineDaniel hinted at darker motives: “That man should be investigated; he could be a channel for terrorist sponsors.”
@shehu_mahdi dismissed the health explanation: “Badaru is hale and hearty… sickness is an afterthought. His clash with Matawalle frustrated him out.”
@Minikothe3rd applauded the resignation: “This is the only dignified thing to do. Matawalle should follow suit.”
@EjioforBar called it overdue: “Good riddance to lethargy and ineffectual leadership. Security chiefs should follow.”
The general sentiment skewed toward relief, with suspicion about the official narrative. Users demanded thorough inquiries into leadership failures and broader systemic security issues.
What’s Next
The presidency is expected to forward Badaru’s successor to the Senate soon. Gen. Christopher Musa is currently the frontrunner, given his recent meeting with Tinubu and strong counter-insurgency credentials.
In the interim, the junior defence minister is handling the portfolio while emergency measures are implemented nationwide.
Analysts warn that leadership changes alone will not resolve Nigeria’s security crisis. Addressing root causes—such as arms proliferation, poverty, illicit mining networks, and intelligence gaps—is essential.
Still, Badaru’s resignation signals a turning point: a tacit acknowledgment that previous strategies have failed and that a new, potentially military-driven approach is underway. Nigeria now watches closely for the appointment that could define the next chapter in the nation’s fight against insecurity.
Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), attributing his departure to ongoing leadership conflicts at the party’s national level.
In a statement posted on his Instagram page on Monday night, Adeleke confirmed that he submitted his resignation to PDP officials in Sagba Abogunde, Ward 2, Ede North Local Government, on November 4, 2025.
He stated, “Due to the persistent leadership crisis within the People’s Democratic Party (#OfficialPDPNig) at the national level, I formally submitted my resignation as a member to the party leadership in Sagba Abogunde, Ward 2, Ede North Local Government on November 4, 2025. I am grateful to the party, its members, and supporters for the opportunities I have had, first as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and now as Governor of Osun State.”
Earlier reports from the PDP Osun State chapter indicated that Adeleke was unlikely to contest for the party’s nomination in the 2026 governorship election unless internal conflicts were resolved. The party had expressed hope that a resolution, recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), could influence him to reconsider.
A joint security patrol in Anambra State has arrested a man believed to be a member of a proscribed secessionist group, marking a significant breakthrough in the state’s ongoing security operations.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Osuigwe, was apprehended on the evening of November 30, 2025, at Amakwa, Ozubulu, by operatives of the Anambra State Police Command attached to the Ozubulu Division, working in collaboration with the Ozubulu Central Vigilante.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, Osuigwe was spotted acting suspiciously and attempting to hide upon noticing the joint patrol team. Officers arrested him immediately, and a search reportedly revealed a handcuff on him and a fresh handcuff wound.
Preliminary interrogation indicated that the suspect claimed membership in a proscribed secessionist group and confessed to recently fleeing from a criminal camp in Ukpor after a dispute with other members.
He is currently in police custody as further investigations continue. Police say he has already provided actionable information aiding ongoing security efforts.
The Anambra State Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining security surveillance, visibility policing, and intensified day-and-night patrols across the state.
The Federal Government has reassured parents and authorities of St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri Agwarra, Niger State, that the abducted children are safe and will return soon.
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu conveyed this message of hope during a visit to the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Proprietor of the school, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, as well as the parents of the abducted students in Kontagora.
Ribadu affirmed that security efforts are being intensified, stating: “the children are where they are and will come back safely. God is with them and God is with us. Evil will never win. They are going to come back, I assure you.”
While delivering President Bola Tinubu’s message of reassurance, Ribadu urged Nigerians to unite against the forces destabilizing the country. He also disclosed that his visit was ordered directly by the President, who “shares in their pains and sorrows,” adding that President Tinubu postponed a planned trip after receiving news of the abduction.
Ribadu commended Bishop Yohanna for his resilience and commitment despite pressure and frustration from various quarters. He further promised strengthened security in the region, affirming that the school will continue to operate and that the children will return safely because “we will provide security in that axis.”
Bishop Yohanna expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the NSA for their support and for offering hope in a difficult moment. He also presented a formal report of the incident to Ribadu before they proceeded into a 30-minute closed-door meeting.
The NSA was accompanied by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bernard Doro; the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi; and the Northern Nigeria Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Joseph Hayab.
Sen. Udoma Udo Udoma, Chairman of Seplat Energy Plc, has highlighted the vital role of a transparent, innovative, and investor-friendly capital market in accelerating Nigeria’s sustainable economic development.
Speaking at the 30th Anniversary Pearl Awards Night themed “Celebrating a Legacy of Corporate Excellence” in Lagos, Udoma noted that strong market governance boosts investor confidence, increases capital inflows, drives business expansion, and ultimately fosters economic and social progress.
He stressed that a vibrant capital market remains central to channeling investment into productive sectors across the country.
Udoma also reflected on the transformative evolution of Nigeria’s capital market over the last 30 years from manual trading floors to fully digital platforms, and from a narrow set of listed firms to a modern, diversified market with growing participation in technology, fintech, and the energy transition.
“I am very impressed by the scale of transformation we have witnessed. We have seen an expansion of market products and instruments, and the creation of a fully digitalised trading and settlement environment. The evolution of our capital market is truly one of Nigeria’s success stories,” he said.
He praised the founders of the Pearl Awards for their vision, noting that by recognising companies through measurable and verifiable metrics, the awards have helped strengthen transparency and discipline within the market. Udoma also applauded the companies that secured top positions in various categories, calling their achievements “commendable” and reflective of the standards the market aims to maintain.
Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, also emphasised that corporate success depends on strong governance systems. He pointed out that sub-national governments face challenges in accessing development finance, stressing the need to differentiate between commercial investment finance and development finance.
“In the light of the current economic realities, I appeal to the capital market, corporate Lagos and corporate Nigeria to collaborate in creating a separate portfolio specifically for development finance… such a window should attract lower and more flexible interest rates,” he said. He noted that without robust infrastructure, the private sector cannot reach its full potential.
Jude Chiemeka, CEO of the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX), remarked that the exchange has grown into a multi-asset marketplace, currently trading 147 listed companies, 102 FGN bonds, and more. He encouraged government action that would motivate more corporates to list, noting that listed companies typically show stronger tax compliance.
Pearl Awards President Mr. Tayo Orekoya said that for three decades, the awards have promoted values such as vision, integrity, impact, and resilience principles that have shaped the Nigerian capital market. The awards, he emphasised, are rooted in transparency and merit, with winners chosen strictly through data analysis rather than popularity.
This year’s event also included the unveiling of the 2026 Stock Market Annals, detailing the metrics, data, and market trends used for evaluation. Orekoya further announced a new category, the Pearl Excellence in Public Governance Award, recognising outstanding contributions to public service.
“Excellence is not limited to the private sector; it also thrives in the public service, where vision and integrity can transform lives,” he said.
He added that the Pearl Awards’ next phase will involve deeper market insights and expanded support for MSMEs through more data-driven reviews.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that companies such as Presco Plc, BUA Foods Plc, Transnational Corporation Plc, and Unilever Nigeria Plc were among the winners in various categories. Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also received public governance awards.
Dr. Owen Omogaifo, Group CEO of Transnational Corporation Plc, won the Pearl CEO of the Year Award, while BUA Foods Plc clinched the 2025 Pearl of the Capital Market Award.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect. His resignation was formally communicated in a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu and dated December 1.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development on Monday. According to him, “Abubakar resigned on health grounds.”
Onanuga added that President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for Badaru’s service to the country.
Sources within the presidency indicate that President Tinubu is expected to notify the Senate of Badaru’s replacement later this week.
Badaru, 63, previously served as the governor of Jigawa State for two terms, from 2015 to 2023, before being appointed as Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023.
His exit comes at a sensitive moment, as President Tinubu recently declared a national security emergency. Further details on the scope and implementation of the emergency measures are expected to be announced soon.
After 29 days of nationwide industrial action, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its indefinite strike, directing members to resume duty immediately.
The announcement came on Saturday, November 29, 2025, following deliberations at an Extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, confirmed that the decision followed an agreement with the federal government on some of the union’s demands, formalized through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
. “The NEC reviewed the MoU, considered the timelines, and agreed that the best course of action is to suspend the strike and allow at least four weeks for implementation of agreed items,” he said.
The strike, which began on November 1, 2025, was aimed at addressing long-standing grievances in Nigeria’s public health sector.
Resident doctors had tabled 19 demands, including the non-payment of outstanding arrears under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), delayed promotion payments, unsettled 2024 accoutrement allowances, and the unjust dismissal of five resident doctors from the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
The union described these as the minimum requirements for a sustainable healthcare system and the restoration of professional dignity.
The federal government’s response included partial disbursements to clear CONMESS arrears and earlier injections into the Medical Residency Training Fund.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, also highlighted steps to address manpower shortages, including the recruitment of over 20,000 health workers in 2024 and approval for 15,000 additional positions in 2025.
Dr. Suleiman emphasized that the suspension is a “strategic pause” rather than a surrender, warning that the strike would resume if the government fails to fully implement the agreement within the four-week period.
“Our demands are patriotic, centered on the survival of the Nigerian health system,” he said, urging members to remain vigilant.
With the resumption of duties, patients across federal hospitals can expect a return to normal services after nearly a month of disruption.
Health facilities, including the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, faced critical shortages during the strike, with non-specialist staff struggling to cope with increased workloads and emergency cases.
As resident doctors return to wards and operating theaters, both the union and the public will be closely monitoring the government’s follow-through on promises, signaling a cautious optimism for Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai rescued 12 teenage girls on Saturday after they were abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Mussa District, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
A statement posted on the Nigerian Army’s official Facebook page on Sunday confirmed that the victims have been taken to a secure location where they are receiving full medical attention. The statement said, “The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 12 teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Mussa District of Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State.”
It explained that the girls, aged 15 to 20, were kidnapped on 23 November while harvesting crops on their family farmlands. According to the statement, “They were freed on Saturday, 29 November, following a swift, intelligence-led operation by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the southern Borno axis.”
It added that the rescued teenagers have been relocated to a secure military facility where they are undergoing medical care, psychological support, and debriefing. The statement noted that once these procedures are completed, the girls will be reunited with their families and that their rescue has brought major relief to the community, which had been living in fear since the abduction.
The Army also listed the rescued girls as: Fatima Shaibu (17), Fatima Umaru (15), Hauwa Abubakar (18), Saliha Muhammed (15), Sadiya Umaru (17), Amira Babel (15), Zara Adamu (17), Nana Shaibu (15), Zainab Musa (18), Zainab Muhammed (17), Jamila Saidu (15) and Hauwa Hamidu (17).
It further stated that the military high command praised the troops for their rapid response and acknowledged the vital role of security partners and local informants whose timely intelligence made the rescue possible. The statement continued, “Troops continue to pursue ISWAP remnants across southern Borno to prevent further attacks and safeguard civilians.” It concluded by urging communities to keep supporting military operations with credible intelligence, stressing that joint efforts are key to ending terrorism and achieving lasting peace.
It was also reported that the girls were kidnapped by gunmen believed to be Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists while working on a farm.
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