Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Nigerian government is strengthening its military capabilities to combat insecurity, as highlighted by government officials including the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. During a recent briefing, officials announced that the Nigerian Air Force has acquired nine new fighter jets, with 49 more expected to join the fleet soon, under the leadership of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar. These investments, supported by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are intended to bolster counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations. Statistics provided indicate that thousands of insurgents have been killed or have surrendered, with notable terrorist commanders such as Abu Bilal Minuki, Haruna Isiya Boderi, Kachallah Alhaji Dayi, Kachallah Idi, Kachallah Kabiru, Kachallah Azailaru, and Alhaji Baldu neutralized. Officials emphasized that the military possesses sophisticated equipment and is effectively countering unconventional guerrilla tactics, which they argue are assisted by local informants and regional instability in the Sahel. Furthermore, the military is moving toward self-sufficiency in hardware production through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria. Inconclusion, ministers called upon the media to report on these efforts responsibly, focusing on the military's successes rather than providing undue publicity to the narratives of criminal groups.

The National Orientation Agency and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control have launched a campaign to enforce a ban on sachet alcoholic drinks in Nigeria, aimed at protecting children's health and reducing underage access to high-strength alcohol. The ban, effective January 1, 2026, prohibits the production and sale of alcohol in sachets and small bottles. National Orientation Agency Director General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu emphasized that this initiative is about public health and societal protection, urging community engagement to change drinking behaviors. The Director General Professor Mojisola Adeyeye refuted claims of suspending the ban, asserting that the National Assembly supports the enforcement efforts to safeguard minors from alcohol abuse.