News Archives - The Historica Nigeria

Kano Assembly Passes Local Govt, Assembly Service Commission Bills

Umar Idris Shuaibu / March 2, 2026

The Kano State House of Assembly has passed the Kano State Local Government Service Commission Bill and the Kano State Assembly Service Commission (Amendment) Bill. The passage followed deliberations at the Committee of the Whole and a third reading during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Jibril Isma’il Falgore. Speaking with journalists shortly after the sitting, the Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini Dala, said the Local Government Service Commission would oversee the recruitment, promotion, and discipline of local government staff, particularly officers on Grade Level 7 and above. Read Also: Nigeria Elections Get New Dates How Governor Yusuf Moves to Empower Local Councils With Financial, Administrative Freedom Weak Local Government Structure Fuelling Insecurity — Senator Dickson He explained that the commission would be chaired by a serving civil servant not below Grade Level 15 or a retired Permanent Secretary from the state civil service. Its membership, he added, would include representatives from key institutions such as the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees and the Ministry of Justice, among others. Dala further noted that the amendment to the Kano State Assembly Service Commission Law would pave the way for the appointment of an additional Deputy Clerk, increasing the number from one to two. The positions will now comprise Deputy Clerk (Administration) and Deputy Clerk (Legislative Services). According to him, the Deputy Clerk will be nominated by the executive arm of government and confirmed by the Assembly through a majority vote, with the position carrying a status equivalent to that of a Permanent Secretary in the state civil service. The Majority Leader reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to enacting laws that would strengthen governance and elevate administrative standards in the state in line with global best practices, reiterating the legislature’s resolve to deepen institutional efficiency and service delivery.

Kano, News

Kano Police Strengthen Public Relations, Human Rights in Statewide Retraining

Umar Idris Shuaibu / March 2, 2026

The Nigeria Police Force, Kano State Command, has commenced a comprehensive retraining workshop for police officers across the state, aimed at reinforcing professionalism, public relations, and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command. The training, which began at the Police Officers Mess, Bompai, Kano, is designed as a participatory exercise, allowing officers to share experiences and adopt best practices in modern policing. Read Also: Tinubu Pushes State Police, Urges Governors to Focus on Poor, Youths The facilitation team includes a public relations expert, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah, alongside the Command’s spokesperson and other resource persons with expertise in public relations, human rights, and law enforcement. While addressing participants, Isah emphasized the importance of professionalism, noting that every police officer represents the image of the Force in their daily interactions with the public. “Every police officer on the street is a walking Public Relations officer. Every checkpoint interaction, every response to a complaint, and every conversation at the front desk are reputation-defining moments,” he said, stressing that public trust remains critical to effective policing. The retraining exercise will be conducted across the 11 Area Commands, 78 Police Divisions, and two Police Mobile Squadrons in the state. It is expected to enhance officers’ capacity in community policing, conflict resolution, and human rights protection. The Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively serve and protect the community. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to upholding professionalism and respect for human rights, while urging members of the public to cooperate with the police and report any cases of misconduct or unprofessional behaviour. The exercise is expected to last for several days, with all officers mandated to participate. Photo News:

National, News

FG Sets Transition Plan for Direct Oil Revenue Payments to Federation Account

Umar Idris Shuaibu / March 2, 2026

The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of Executive Order 9 of 2026, mandating the direct remittance of oil revenues to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). The development follows the inaugural meeting of the implementation committee held on February 26, 2026. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, outlining key resolutions reached at the meeting. According to him, the committee reaffirmed the directive of President Bola Tinubu that all revenues accruing to the federation from petroleum operations must be managed in line with constitutional provisions, safeguard national earnings, and support fiscal stability across the three tiers of government. Read Also: A Quiet War on Our Soil: How Aid, Chemicals, and Banditry Are Strangling Northern Nigeria’s Ginger Heartland As part of the reforms, the government directed the NNPC Limited to immediately discontinue the collection of 30 percent management fees and 30 percent frontier exploration fund deductions from profit oil and gas under Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs). The statement also announced the immediate suspension of remittances of gas flare penalties into the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, in compliance with the executive order. On the provision for direct payments by contractors into the federation account, Edun explained that the committee approved a structured transition period to ensure the process aligns with existing contractual obligations and maintains investor confidence. “Until detailed guidelines are issued, contractors will continue with the current remittance process,” he said, adding that standardised procedures would be introduced to ensure a seamless transition. To facilitate implementation, the committee approved the establishment of a technical subcommittee tasked with developing comprehensive transition guidelines within three weeks. The subcommittee will also commence a review of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to address structural and fiscal gaps affecting federation revenues. The subcommittee, to be led by the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, will include key stakeholders such as the Solicitor-General of the Federation, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, and representatives from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Budget Office of the Federation. Edun noted that the committee would continue to provide coordinated guidance and updates as implementation progresses, while commending stakeholders for their cooperation in advancing reforms aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s petroleum resources deliver tangible benefits to citizens.

International, News

Iran Says Kheibar Missiles Targeted Israeli Govt Compound

Umar Idris Shuaibu / March 2, 2026

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for a missile strike targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and the Israeli Air Force Command headquarters. In a statement carried by Mehr and Fars news agencies, the IRGC said the attack was carried out using Kheibar missiles, also known as Khorramshahr-4, as part of what it described as the 10th wave of retaliatory missile operations. The group characterised the strike as a “targeted and surprise attack” on a government compound in Israel. The Kheibar missile is a medium-range ballistic missile developed by Iran, reportedly capable of carrying heavy warheads and designed to evade advanced air defence systems. Read Also: Iran Confirms Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei in US-Israel Strikes Saudi Arabia Appoints Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Humaid as New Grand Mufti Kidnapped Nigerians Now Left to Die in Captivity as Poverty Deepens – Islamic Cleric Israeli authorities have not officially responded to the claims, and there has been no independent verification of the reported strike or the extent of any potential damage. The announcement marks a further escalation in tensions following recent joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which Tehran says killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and several senior officials. In response, Iran has launched a series of missile and drone attacks across the region. Regional and international observers warn that the intensifying exchange of strikes could widen the conflict further, raising concerns about broader instability in the Middle East. (Türkiye Times)

International, News

Iran Confirms Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei in US-Israel Strikes

Umar Idris Shuaibu / March 1, 2026

Iranian state media have confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in coordinated airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel. The announcement, made on Sunday, follows earlier claims by both American and Israeli officials that the 86-year-old leader had been eliminated during the attacks. Authorities in Tehran have declared a 40-day national mourning period in honour of the longtime leader. Initial reports by Iranian outlets had suggested that Khamenei remained “steadfast and firm in commanding the field,” but subsequent confirmation by state media marked a dramatic turn in the unfolding crisis. US President Donald Trump had earlier stated on his Truth Social platform that Khamenei was killed during the strikes, describing the operation as highly coordinated and intelligence-driven. Read Also: Iran Warns of Open-Ended Retaliation, Hits U.S. Linked Bases Across Region Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also indicated that there were “growing signs” of the Iranian leader’s death, while security sources cited by international media reported that his body had been located. Khamenei, who assumed leadership in 1989 following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, held ultimate authority over Iran’s political, military, and religious institutions, making him one of the most powerful figures in the Middle East for over three decades. Analysts say his death introduces significant uncertainty into an already volatile situation, with concerns mounting over potential escalation across the region. Reports indicate that Iran had contingency plans in place, which may involve the formation of a leadership council to manage state affairs. Meanwhile, the conflict continues to intensify. Iranian media report that recent strikes targeted multiple provinces, resulting in significant casualties, while retaliatory attacks by Iran have triggered air defence responses in several countries hosting US military assets, including Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. In a further escalation, Trump signalled that military operations against Iran would continue, warning of sustained strikes “throughout the week or as long as necessary.” Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also confirmed ongoing retaliatory operations against US and Israeli positions, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Authorities say investigations and strategic responses are ongoing as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East. (Tehran Times)

Nasarawa, National, News

President Tinubu Renews Audi’s Tenure as NSCDC Boss

Umar Idris Shuaibu / February 28, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has approved the reappointment of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi as Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for another five-year term. The renewal, which took effect on Friday, February 27, follows the completion of Dr Audi’s first tenure, which began in 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. In a statement issued on Saturday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the reappointment and said the President has tasked Audi with repositioning the Corps to play a more significant role in the country’s evolving security landscape. According to the statement, President Tinubu urged the NSCDC to strengthen its operations, particularly as the Nigeria Police refocuses on its core mandate of protecting citizens from banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. Audi’s initial five-year mandate ended on Friday while he was participating in activities marking the 2026 World Civil Defence Day at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. He is expected to resume duties on Monday under the renewed mandate. Read Also: After Five Years at Helm, Audi Exits NSCDC, Lists Milestones in Security Operations FAAN Chairman Visits MMIA Following Fire Outbreak Kafanchan: Emir of Jema’a Palace Hit as Fire Destroyed 4 Flats Born on September 30, 1967, in Laminga Town, Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Dr Audi began his educational journey in the state before obtaining a Teachers’ Grade II Certificate from Teachers’ College, Jengre, Plateau State, in 1987. He later earned a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) from the College of Education, Akwanga, in 1992, and proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Physical and Health Education in 1995. In 2001, he received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Calabar. He went on to earn a PhD in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, in 2014, and a Master’s degree in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 2019. Dr Audi joined the NSCDC in November 1996 as a volunteer and was deployed as a Divisional Officer in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State after completing his basic officer training in 1997. Over the years, he served in various state commands and, in 2007, was promoted to the rank of Commandant of the Corps before being deployed to the office of the Commandant-General at the National Headquarters in Abuja. His reappointment signals continuity in leadership at the Corps amid ongoing security reforms nationwide.

International, News

Iran Warns of Open-Ended Retaliation, Hits U.S. Linked Bases Across Region

Umar Idris Shuaibu / February 28, 2026

A senior Iranian official has warned that Tehran’s response to recent developments in the Middle East will be carried out openly and without limitation, declaring that there are “no red lines” following what it described as aggression by the United States and Israel. Speaking to Al Jazeera, the official cautioned Israel to “prepare for what is coming,” stressing that “all American and Israeli assets and interests in the Middle East have become legitimate targets.” “There are no red lines after this aggression, and everything is possible, including scenarios that were not previously considered,” the official said. The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, with Iran characterising recent joint actions by the United States and Israel as a declaration of war that could have “wide and long-lasting repercussions.” Read Also: Kafanchan: Emir of Jema’a Palace Hit as Fire Destroyed 4 Flats According to the official, Tehran has prepared a “complex response with no time limit,” dismissing calls for restraint or compromise as “unacceptable and mere wishful thinking.” In a related development, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed it had launched missiles and deployed drones targeting Israel, stating that the strikes were in direct response to what it described as hostile actions against the Islamic Republic. Shortly after the reported strikes, Israel announced the closure of its airspace and activated emergency sirens amid fears of further retaliation. Across the region, multiple explosions were reported. In Bahrain, authorities confirmed that a facility linked to the U.S. Fifth Fleet was struck by a missile. However, a U.S. official told Fox News that no casualties were recorded. Security sources also reported rocket attacks targeting a U.S. military base in Iraqi Kurdistan. In Qatar, the Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems intercepted missiles aimed at the country, successfully neutralising what it described as a second wave of attacks. Meanwhile, Reuters reported a loud explosion in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, adding to growing concerns over a widening regional conflict. Washington is yet to issue an official response as tensions continue to mount across the Middle East.

Kaduna, News

Kafanchan: Emir of Jema’a Palace Hit as Fire Destroyed 4 Flats

Umar Idris Shuaibu / February 28, 2026

Richard Pius Garba, Kafanchan Fresh details have emerged following Friday’s fire outbreak at the Jema’a Emir’s Palace in Kafanchan, headquarters of Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, with confirmation that four flats were completely razed by the inferno. The affected apartments are located in a wing of the palace reportedly occupied by the mother of the Emir. Sources said the fire started in the early evening while the family was preparing for Magrib prayers, triggering panic within the palace and the surrounding neighbourhood. When ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ correspondent visited the palace Friday night, visible signs of destruction remained, as parts of the affected structure were badly burnt and several household items reduced to ashes. Read Also: Ganduje Pushes Sports as Tool for Youth Empowerment After Five Years at Helm, Audi Exits NSCDC, Lists Milestones in Security Operations Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure Commiserates with Kwara Victims Residents and sympathisers thronged the palace premises to express solidarity with the Emir and his family. Eyewitnesses disclosed that officials of the Kaduna State Fire Service in Kafanchan responded to a distress call but were initially unable to contain the blaze, as their pumping machine allegedly failed to start upon arrival. The delay, sources said, made early intervention difficult, allowing the fire to spread and consume four flats before additional support was mobilised. Security personnel and local volunteers joined efforts to salvage valuables and prevent the flames from extending to other sections of the palace complex. Although no casualties were recorded as of the time of filing this report, the incident resulted in significant property damage. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities are yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the outbreak or the full extent of losses. Meanwhile, residents of Kafanchan have continued to sympathise with the Emirate, describing the incident as unfortunate and calling for improved emergency response capacity in the area. Photo News:

Nasarawa, National, News

After Five Years at Helm, Audi Exits NSCDC, Lists Milestones in Security Operations

Umar Idris Shuaibu / February 27, 2026

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has bowed out of service after 30 years, including five years at the helm of the security agency. Speaking during his pull-out ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Audi gave an account of his stewardship, highlighting key achievements in the fight against oil theft and the institutional modernisation of the Corps. He disclosed that the NSCDC destroyed no fewer than 283 illegal refineries as part of its sustained crackdown on economic sabotage across the country. Reflecting on Nigeria’s evolving security landscape, Audi described the current situation as an “asymmetric conflict,” noting that the Corps has increasingly transitioned into a frontline agency in managing humanitarian crises. According to him, the NSCDC worked closely with other security agencies to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by the activities of insurgent groups, particularly those employing hit-and-run tactics. Read Also: ASUP NILEST Celebrates Retiring Unionist, Demands Settlement of Entitlements The outgoing Commandant General emphasised that a major hallmark of his administration was the aggressive fight against economic sabotage. Providing a statistical breakdown of operations from March 2021 to date, he revealed that the Corps arrested 4,677 suspected economic saboteurs, recorded 2,039 ongoing prosecutions, and secured 638 convictions. “In the past five years, I have discharged the duties of my office intelligently and responsibly. With every sense of sincerity, we have been able to achieve significant milestones and provide positive leadership,” Audi stated. To strengthen operational capacity, he said his administration prioritised intensive training programmes aimed at enhancing personnel competence in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and arms handling. Under his leadership, the Corps established a Command and Staff College in Jos, Plateau State, as well as the College of Arms Squad and Support Services in Nasarawa State. He added that a standardised training curriculum was introduced across all NSCDC training institutions to formalise career progression and professional development. Audi also highlighted reforms in the Private Guard Companies (PGC) sector, noting that 376 new companies were registered during his tenure, while 3,800 licences were renewed. To ensure compliance with national security standards, he said the Corps sealed 443 private security firms found to have violated operational requirements. Audi was appointed Commandant General in February 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Born on September 30, 1967, in Laminga, Nasarawa State, he holds a PhD in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and a Master’s degree in Public Business Administration from the University of Calabar. A member of the National Institute (mni), Audi rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities including Divisional Officer in Obi and Lafia, Head of Operations/Intelligence in Nasarawa State, Provost of the NSCDC Training College in Katsina, and Commandant in Imo State. At the ceremony, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, as well as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his guidance and support. He attributed the successes recorded during his tenure to the dedication of officers and men of the Corps, as well as the cooperation of his management team, reiterating the importance of sustained commitment to national security.

National, News

IGP Transition: Tinubu Moves to Retain Senior Police Leadership

Umar Idris Shuaibu / February 27, 2026

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly halted a planned mass retirement of about 30 senior police officers following the removal of Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the appointment of Tunji Disu as Acting IGP. The intervention comes amid renewed national debate over the long-standing practice of compulsory retirement for senior officers whenever a new police chief assumes office, a development that has historically triggered widespread exits within the upper ranks of the force. According to reports, the proposed shake-up targeted several Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), with an internal document listing at least eight DIGs including Frank Mba (Training), Yahaya Abubakar (Finance), Adebola Hamzat (Logistics), and Adebowale Williams (ICT), among those expected to exit in order to maintain command hierarchy. However, the Presidency reportedly intervened, directing that the process be halted to allow the new Acting IGP to benefit from the experience of senior officers. A source was quoted as saying the decision was taken to ensure continuity and stability within the Nigeria Police Force during the transition period. Read Also: Meet DIGs Likely to Retire Following Disu’s Emergence as Acting IGP FAAN Chairman Visits MMIA Following Fire Outbreak After Political Shift, Governor Yusuf Seen Without Iconic Red Cap in France Disu’s elevation comes less than two months before his scheduled retirement upon attaining the mandatory age of 60. Born on April 13, 1966, the Acting IGP was promoted to Assistant Inspector-General in March 2025 and is due for retirement in April 2026. Although the amended Police Act permits an Inspector-General to serve a four-year term irrespective of age, sources indicate that Disu may not benefit from tenure extension beyond his statutory retirement date. Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Chidi Odinkalu has drawn attention to past controversies surrounding compulsory retirements within the force, referencing a 2023 case that resulted in a landmark court judgment. The case involved former DIG Moses Ambakina Jitoboh, whose compulsory retirement by the Police Service Commission was challenged in court. In a judgment delivered on January 13, 2025, Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae of the National Industrial Court ruled that the retirement was unlawful and unconstitutional, stating that administrative policies cannot override statutory provisions governing service tenure. The court ordered Jitoboh’s reinstatement until his due retirement date and awarded damages against the commission. Observers say the latest intervention by President Tinubu may help stabilise the leadership structure of the police force, even as broader legal and administrative questions surrounding compulsory retirements remain unresolved. (Platinum Post)