Aeesha's Blog

Author: Aeesha Zannah

  • NAF Airstrikes Neutralise Over 40 Terrorists in Borno State

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully neutralised more than 40 terrorists in coordinated air operations in Borno State, the Air Force said on Sunday in a statement released in Abuja. The precision airstrikes, conducted on January 15 and 16, 2026, were aimed at disrupting planned attacks and degrading insurgent capabilities in the North-East.

    According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, the operations were executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI following credible, actionable intelligence and in close coordination with ground troops already engaged with hostile elements.

    At Azir:

    Ejodame said that in the early hours of January 16, NAF aircraft received a distress call from troops engaged with withdrawing terrorists in the Azir area of Damboa Local Government Area. Upon arrival, aerial surveillance identified insurgents attempting to regroup and seek cover under tree lines.

    The NAF aircraft promptly engaged the targets in successive, well-coordinated passes, neutralising several terrorists. A post-strike assessment confirmed no further threats in the vicinity, and reports from ground troops and local authorities indicated a significant reduction in insurgent presence and a return to relative calm.

    At Musarram:

    Earlier on January 15, NAF air assets carried out a separate air interdiction mission at Musarram in the Tumbuns general area after intelligence revealed that terrorists were assembling on canoes to launch attacks along the Baga and Fish Dam axis. On arrival, the aircraft spotted about 10 canoes and over 40 suspected terrorists, who were immediately engaged.

    The aerial strikes threw the insurgents into disarray, with some fleeing elements tracked and neutralised, while others who regrouped at a nearby assembly point were also engaged, effectively dismantling the concentration of fighters.

    Reacting to the successful missions, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to providing timely and decisive air support to ground forces operating in the North-East.

    He said the operations demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led air power and close air–ground coordination in denying terrorists freedom of movement and degrading their operational capabilities. Aneke assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain pressure on terrorist elements until their capabilities are significantly weakened and stability restored to affected areas.

    The airstrikes targeted areas in Damboa Local Government Area, which have been long-standing hotspots of insecurity linked to Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), where repeated insurgent attacks against both military formations and civilian communities have been reported in recent years.

  • After Years on the Run, NDLEA Arrests Suspect in Killing of Three Officers

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a notorious drug kingpin, Lekan Jimoh, alias “Kanmo-Kanmo,” who had been on the agency’s wanted list for over a decade in connection with the killing of three NDLEA officers.

    Jimoh was apprehended during an intelligence-led operation in Owode, Ogun State, bringing to an end a 12-year manhunt that began after a deadly confrontation with NDLEA operatives in June 2014.

    According to the agency, the suspect allegedly mobilised armed associates to attack NDLEA officers who attempted to arrest him at his residence, resulting in the death of three operatives. He subsequently went into hiding and remained a fugitive despite several operations targeted at dismantling his drug network.

    NDLEA said a search conducted at the point of arrest led to the recovery of 69 kilograms of skunk, a high-potency strain of cannabis, believed to be part of an ongoing trafficking operation.

    The agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, described the arrest as a major breakthrough, noting that the suspect’s capture demonstrates the NDLEA’s resolve to ensure that no individual involved in violent drug crimes escapes justice, regardless of the time elapsed.

    Babafemi recalled that in 2023, NDLEA operatives raided a property linked to Jimoh in Ado-Odo area of Ogun State, where 1,922 kilograms of skunk were seized. Although the suspect evaded arrest at the time, the property was later forfeited to the Federal Government following court proceedings.

    The NDLEA said the arrest forms part of intensified nationwide operations aimed at dismantling drug trafficking syndicates, curbing violent crimes associated with illicit drugs and safeguarding the lives of law-enforcement officers.

    The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

  • Nigeria Opens Door to Global Satellite Broadband Expansion

    Nigeria has taken a significant step toward bridging the country’s digital divide as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today approved satellite broadband permits for leading international operators, including Amazon’s Kuiper Systems, Israel’s BeetleSat, and Germany-based Satelio.

    The seven-year licenses mark a strategic push to enhance high-speed internet access nationwide, particularly in underserved and rural communities, where traditional fiber-optic infrastructure remains limited.

    Regulators emphasized that the approvals are not only aimed at improving connectivity but also at attracting foreign investment and fostering a competitive, innovation-driven telecom sector in Nigeria.

    Industry analysts highlight that Amazon Kuiper’s network of over 3,000 satellites could transform Nigeria’s broadband landscape, providing faster and more reliable internet for both urban centers and remote areas.

    Similarly, BeetleSat and Satelio are expected to deploy smaller, specialized satellite networks that can serve niche markets and expand IoT capabilities across the country.

    The NCC stated that the move reflects Nigeria’s commitment to joining the global digital frontier, preparing the nation for next-generation satellite internet technologies and positioning it as a hub for regional digital services in Africa.

    The permits cover full operational rights for seven years, giving the licensees a window to launch services, expand coverage, and collaborate with local telecom operators to enhance Nigeria’s connectivity ecosystem.

    Experts believe this could lower internet costs, improve service quality, and accelerate digital transformation in sectors ranging from education and healthcare to finance and commerce.

  • Bridal Beauty Guide: How to Achieve Radiant, Glowing Skin for Your Wedding Day

    Every bride dreams of walking down the aisle with flawless, glowing skin. Achieving that bridal radiance requires careful planning, consistent care, and attention to both lifestyle and skincare routines. Experts recommend starting early to give your skin enough time to adapt and respond to treatments.

    1. Begin Your Skincare Journey Early
    For optimal results, start a structured skincare routine 6 to 12 months before the wedding. Early preparation allows time for your skin to respond to products and professional treatments, ensuring a smooth, even complexion on the big day.

    2. Hydration is Key
    Drinking plenty of water daily is essential. Hydrated skin appears plump, healthy, and radiant. Experts also suggest incorporating hydrating foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges to nourish skin from the inside out.

    3. Sun Protection
    Sun damage accelerates aging, dark spots, and dullness. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours. Protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats can further shield the skin.

    4. Prioritize Sleep
    Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep allows your skin to repair, regenerate, and maintain a natural glow. Adequate rest can also reduce under-eye circles and puffiness.

    5. Eat a Skin-Friendly Diet
    A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon and avocado for radiant skin.

    6. Use Gentle Skincare Products
    Choose skincare products suitable for your skin type, whether oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. Avoid harsh chemicals that may cause irritation or breakouts.

    7. Exfoliate Regularly
    Exfoliating 1–2 times per week removes dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and prepares your skin to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively.

    8. Professional Treatments
    Consider professional treatments like facials, chemical peels, or laser therapy, especially for targeted concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or uneven texture. Consult a licensed dermatologist or aesthetician to determine the safest and most effective options for your skin.
    Nighttime Skincare Routine for

    Brides-to-Be

    A consistent evening routine ensures that your skin recovers overnight and stays radiant:

    • Cleanse Thoroughly: Remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. Double cleansing can help achieve a deep clean.

    • Tone: Apply a gentle toner to restore skin’s natural pH balance.

    • Treat: Use serums containing active ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or hyaluronic acid to address specific skin concerns.

    • Moisturize: Lock in hydration with a nourishing night cream suited to your skin type.

    Final Tip

    Consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional is essential for tailored advice. They can recommend the best products, routines, and treatments to ensure your skin looks luminous on your wedding day.

    With dedication, proper care, and professional guidance, brides can achieve a radiant, glowing complexion that will shine in every photograph and memory of the special day.

  • UN Sounds Alarm as Northeast Nigeria Faces Decade’s Worst Hunger Crisis Amid Aid Shortfall

    The United Nations has raised a stark warning over the worsening humanitarian situation in northeastern Nigeria, stating that millions of people are at risk as the region confronts its most severe hunger crisis in a decade. Aid shortfalls and reductions in international assistance have compounded the plight of already vulnerable communities, leaving thousands of families on the brink of starvation.

    According to UN reports, the crisis is particularly acute in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, areas long battered by insurgency, displacement, and economic disruption. Humanitarian agencies note that declining food aid, coupled with rising prices of basic staples, has left many households unable to secure sufficient meals. Children, the elderly, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are especially at risk.

    The UN has called for immediate international support, emphasizing that the current level of intervention is inadequate to meet the scale of need. “Without urgent action, the lives of millions could be lost, and the social and economic fabric of the northeast will face irreparable damage,” the UN statement warned.

    Local authorities have urged a coordinated response, stressing that sustainable solutions must address both emergency relief and long-term food security. Analysts argue that unless global partners step up, the crisis could escalate further, aggravating regional instability and prompting renewed displacement.

    The humanitarian warning underscores the intersection of insecurity, economic hardship, and climate stress in Nigeria’s northeast, painting a grim picture for communities that have endured years of conflict and neglect.

  • PTDF Opens Applications for 2026 Fully Funded Overseas Postgraduate Scholarships

    The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has announced the commencement of applications for its 2026 Overseas Scholarship Scheme, offering fully funded opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) degrees in selected institutions across the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Malaysia.

    The scheme, a flagship human capital development programme of the Federal Government, is designed to build indigenous capacity for Nigeria’s oil, gas and energy sectors through advanced training and international exposure.

    According to information released by the Fund, successful candidates will enjoy full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, accommodation, health insurance, and round-trip airfare, making the award one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available to Nigerian students.

    PTDF stated that the scholarship targets academically outstanding Nigerians whose fields of study align with national priorities in petroleum, gas, renewable energy, engineering, environmental management and other related disciplines critical to economic growth and energy transition.

    The Fund urged eligible applicants to submit their applications early, noting that the application deadline is February 27, 2026.

    Industry analysts say the overseas scholarship scheme remains a strategic intervention to address skills gaps in Nigeria’s energy sector, especially as the country balances fossil fuel development with emerging clean energy demands. Over the years, PTDF scholars trained abroad have contributed to research, policy formulation and technical innovation within the sector.

    Prospective applicants are advised to review eligibility criteria and submit applications through the official scholarship information platform.

    Further details on requirements and the application process are available at:

    Apply via the PTDF Scholarship Portal:
    https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng/create/applicant

  • Heartbreak in Kano: Mother, Six Children Killed in Home Attack

    The Kano State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the gruesome killing of a mother and her six children following a violent attack on their home in Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters, the command said on Saturday.

    According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the tragic incident occurred at about 12:10 p.m. when unknown hoodlums forcibly gained entry into the residence of Haruna Bashir and attacked the occupants with dangerous weapons.

    The victims have been identified as Fatima Abubakar, 35, and her six children. All seven sustained fatal injuries and were taken to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, Kano, where medical personnel confirmed their deaths on arrival.

    Police Response and Investigation

    Upon receiving the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, immediately mobilised a team of officers to the scene, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Lawal Isah Mani, to secure the area and begin preliminary inquiries.

    CP Bakori has directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), ACP Wada Jarma, to lead a thorough investigation aimed at identifying and apprehending the perpetrators.

    In the statement, the police command extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, residents of Dorayi Chiranchi and the people of Kano State. It also reassured the public that every effort will be made to bring those responsible to justice.

    Community Reaction and Security Concerns

    The attack has plunged the Dorayi Chiranchi community into mourning, with residents describing the incident as shocking and senseless. Many called on security agencies to intensify patrols and improve intelligence gathering to prevent similar atrocities in the future.

    Security analysts say the tragic killings underscore ongoing insecurity challenges in some urban quarters of northern Nigeria, where criminal elements occasionally exploit gaps in local surveillance and response. Authorities have urged anyone with credible information about the attack to assist police investigations.

  • Aviation Unions Threaten Shutdown at NCAT, Demand Swift Resolution of Welfare Review

    Four major aviation labour unions have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the management of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, threatening a total shutdown of the institution over the prolonged delay in reviewing staff Conditions of Service.

    The unions — the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) — expressed frustration over what they described as management’s failure to honour repeated commitments to conclude the welfare review.

    Unions Accuse Management of Prolonged Inaction

    In a joint statement, the unions said the welfare review process had dragged on for years despite several meetings, agreements and assurances, describing the delay as detrimental to staff morale and institutional stability.

    They noted that other aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), had already concluded similar reviews, leaving NCAT as the only major aviation institution yet to finalise its Conditions of Service.

    According to the unions, the situation has created a growing disparity in remuneration and welfare standards within the aviation sector, a development they warned could undermine productivity and industrial harmony at the college.

    14-Day Ultimatum and Strike Threat

    The unions stated that if management fails to conclude the review within 14 days, they would direct their members to withdraw their services, a move that could paralyse academic, technical and administrative activities at the college.

    They stressed that the ultimatum was issued as a last resort after exhausting internal dispute-resolution mechanisms, adding that their members could no longer tolerate what they termed “lip service” to welfare concerns.

    Implications for Aviation Training

    NCAT is Nigeria’s premier aviation training institution, responsible for producing pilots, aircraft engineers, air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals critical to the country’s air transport system.

    Industry stakeholders have warned that any disruption to activities at the college could have far-reaching consequences for aviation manpower development, particularly at a time when the sector is grappling with capacity and safety challenges.

    The unions, however, maintained that their action was not intended to cripple the institution but to compel management to act in the best interest of staff and the long-term sustainability of NCAT.

    Management Yet to Respond

    As of the time of filing this report, NCAT management had not issued an official response to the ultimatum. Efforts to obtain comments from the institution’s spokesperson were unsuccessful.

    Calls for Dialogue

    Labour analysts have urged both parties to return to the negotiating table to avert industrial action, warning that unresolved welfare disputes could erode confidence in Nigeria’s aviation training framework.

    Observers say a swift resolution of the impasse would not only restore industrial peace but also safeguard the college’s role as a cornerstone of aviation development in the country.

  • Qatar Airways Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Lagos After Mid-Air Technical Fault; No Injuries Reported

    An international passenger aircraft operated by Qatar Airways was forced to make an emergency landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on Friday night after developing a technical fault while airborne over Nigerian airspace, aviation authorities confirmed.

    The aircraft, carrying 248 passengers and 12 crew members, encountered the fault during the flight, prompting the flight crew to issue a distress alert that immediately activated emergency response mechanisms at both the airport and state levels.

    Swift Multi-Agency Emergency Response

    The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said it received the distress signal through its 767/112 toll-free emergency lines and promptly implemented its emergency response plan.

    LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that the Lagos Response Team, along with units from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), and operatives from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), were placed on high alert along the runway in preparation for the aircraft’s arrival.

    Despite “tense moments” as the aircraft descended, emergency officials noted that the situation was handled calmly and efficiently.

    Professional Handling and Safe Landing

    The pilot, guided by air traffic control and supported by emergency responders, executed a controlled landing on the runway. All passengers and crew disembarked safely, and no injuries or fatalities were reported, officials said.

    Following the landing, the aircraft was initially checked on the runway by the pilot and engineering crew before being moved to the airport apron for more comprehensive inspections and necessary repairs.

    LASEMA also confirmed that there was no significant damage to the airframe and recovery operations were concluded without further incident.

    Reassurance to Travellers and Public Confidence in Aviation Safety

    Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu used the occasion to reassure the public about the readiness of emergency management agencies in Lagos to respond to aviation contingencies, describing the successful outcome as evidence of effective coordination across multiple agencies.

    “This incident demonstrates the preparedness of our response teams and the robustness of safety protocols at our airports,” he said in a statement.

    Pending Technical Investigation

    While the immediate crisis has been resolved, officials from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) are expected to conduct a technical investigation to determine the precise cause of the fault and ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards.

    Qatar Airways had not issued an official statement on the incident as of the time of this report.

  • NAFRC’s New Commandant Sets Course for Institutional Transformation, Skills Development

    Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo has officially assumed command of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos, marking a strategic leadership transition aimed at revitalising the Centre’s mandate of preparing retiring military personnel for productive civilian life.

    The appointment, announced by the Nigerian Air Force under the authority of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, is part of a wider senior officer reshuffle intended to strengthen institutional leadership and align the Centre’s operations with national security and socio-economic objectives.

    Renewed Focus on Skill Acquisition and Welfare

    Upon his inauguration, AVM Ilo embarked on an extensive familiarisation tour of the Centre’s facilities, engaging directly with personnel and staff to gain first-hand insights into existing operations and challenges. The tour covered vocational training workshops, instructional environments, and administrative units — such as automobile mechanics, welding, carpentry, ICT, and agricultural training wings.

    In remarks to staff and officers, the new commandant emphasised the importance of enhancing the learning environment for trainees while also elevating the working conditions and welfare of instructors and support staff. According to sources, AVM Ilo stated that these priorities are critical to boosting productivity, morale, and the effective delivery of vocational programmes for retiring service members.

    Institutional Legacy and Strategic Repositioning

    The NAFRC — which has evolved from its origins as a rehabilitation facility into a comprehensive centre for vocational resettlement — bears a growing responsibility in Nigeria’s broader defence ecosystem. Its mission is to equip retiring armed forces personnel with the practical skills and entrepreneurial competencies needed to reintegrate effectively into civilian life and contribute to national development.

    In highlighting this mandate, observers note that the Centre’s work dovetails with federal priorities to reduce post-service unemployment among veterans while reinforcing their relevance in the civilian economy. The need to align training programmes with evolving industry standards has been underscored by both military leadership and external partners.

    Challenges and Forward Agenda

    NAFRC officials have acknowledged that while the institution has made strides — including recent infrastructure expansions and the diversification of skills training units — gaps remain in modern training equipment, instructional resources, and staff welfare provisions. AVM Ilo’s early interactions with personnel signal an intent to address these gaps through a combination of internal reforms and potential benchmarking against international best practices.

    The new commandant’s strategy, according to sources familiar with the Centre’s operations, involves prioritising investment in state-of-the-art tools, updating curricula to reflect current labour market needs, and enhancing the capacity of workshops and training facilities. These interventions are expected to increase the employability of retiring personnel and align the Centre’s outputs with Nigeria’s socio-economic goals.

    Looking Ahead

    As Nigeria continues to confront evolving security and economic challenges, the role of institutions like the NAFRC remains pivotal. The Centre’s success in resettling retired service members not only bolsters veterans’ welfare but also taps into a pool of disciplined, skilled individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to the private sector, small business development, and community leadership.

    With AVM Ilo at the helm, military watchers and veterans’ advocates will be closely observing how his leadership influences NAFRC’s operational efficiency, training standards, and long-term impact on Nigeria’s defence transition ecosystem.

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