At least 37 people suspected of illegal mining have died while in the custody of Nigeria’s civil defence corps in Niger State, authorities said Thursday (Sep 17), prompting an investigation into the mass deaths.Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, at a press conference, said the victims died at a detention facility in the state capital, Minna. He described the incident as “sad” and “tragic” and said a committee of inquiry had been set up and had already begun work.“This morning we woke up to the news that about 37 persons died in the custody of the civil defence here in Minna,” Bago told reporters at a news conference broadcast by TVC News.The governor declared three days of mourning and has also postponed the planned start of campaigning for elections due in January.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-plotting-something-bad-russia-may-launch-accidental-strikes-on-nato-countries-supporting-ukraine-britain-poland-pm-warns-1789697149962">Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns</a><h2>Police launch probe into deaths</h2>The Niger state police command said it had opened an investigation after the deaths were discovered. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun, as quoted by AFP, said the state police chief had “ordered the immediate commencement of investigation into the unfortunate death of suspected illegal miners while in the detention facility of the NSCDC”.The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it had arrested “scores of suspected illegal miners” on Tuesday and Wednesday.According to the corps, the detainees were found dead in the early hours of September 17 after what it described as a “suspected outbreak of disease”.However, an intelligence report suggests that the deaths may have resulted from “overcrowding and inadequate ventilation” inside the detention facility. The exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-48-dead-100-hospitalised-in-nigeria-after-drinking-suspected-methanol-laced-alcohol-1789698948857">At least 48 dead in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol</a><h2>Protest reported in Minna; Video of dead circulating online</h2>The deaths reportedly triggered protests in Minna involving “groups of miners and sympathisers”, according to the intelligence report cited by AFP. Cars and other belongings were damaged during the unrest.A video circulating online showed the bodies of dozens of young men lying outside, many wearing only shorts. Volunteers wearing gloves could be seen around the bodies while women in veils attempted to identify relatives. Video below — viewer discretion advised.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">What I heard about the video below &quot;They&#39;re illegal miners that died a day or two after being arrested and taken into custody, of a disease.&quot; Buh my opinion on it: 👇 Arrested Sept 15–16. Dead by Sept 17 and the official story is &#39;suspected disease&#39;? No name for the disease,… <a href="https://t.co/iaUvKi7pjo">pic.twitter.com/iaUvKi7pjo</a>&mdash; Silent Beamer (@silent_beamer) <a href="https://x.com/silent_beamer/status/2100740373920231683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

37 suspected illegal miners have died while in custody in Nigeria’s Niger State, triggering a police and government investigation. Officials say the cause has not yet been established, with competing explanations emerging over what happened inside the detention facility. All we know.

At least 37 people suspected of illegal mining have died while in the custody of Nigeria’s civil defence corps in Niger State, authorities said Thursday (Sep 17), prompting an investigation into the mass deaths. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, at a press conference, said the victims died at a detention facility in the state capital, Minna. He described the incident as “sad” and “tragic” and said a committee of inquiry had been set up and had already begun work. “This morning we woke up to the news that about 37 persons died in the custody of the civil defence here in Minna,” Bago told reporters at a news conference broadcast by TVC News. The governor declared three days of mourning and has also postponed the planned start of campaigning for elections due in January. Also read | Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns Police launch probe into deaths The Niger state police command said it had opened an investigation after the deaths were discovered. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun, as quoted by AFP, said the state police chief had “ordered the immediate commencement of investigation into the unfortunate death of suspected illegal miners while in the detention facility of the NSCDC”. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it had arrested “scores of suspected illegal miners” on Tuesday and Wednesday. According to the corps, the detainees were found dead in the early hours of September 17 after what it described as a “suspected outbreak of disease”. However, an intelligence report suggests that the deaths may have resulted from “overcrowding and inadequate ventilation” inside the detention facility. The exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established. Also read | At least 48 dead in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol Protest reported in Minna; Video of dead circulating online The deaths reportedly triggered protests in Minna involving “groups of miners and sympathisers”, according to the intelligence report cited by AFP. Cars and other belongings were damaged during the unrest. A video circulating online showed the bodies of dozens of young men lying outside, many wearing only shorts. Volunteers wearing gloves could be seen around the bodies while women in veils attempted to identify relatives. Video below — viewer discretion advised.

37 suspected illegal miners have died while in custody in Nigeria’s Niger State, triggering a police and government investigation. Officials say the cause has not yet been established, with competing explanations emerging over what happened inside the detention facility. All we know.

Nigeria: 37 suspected illegal miners die in custody; 'overcrowding and inadequate ventilation' under investigation

The Nigerian Navy has struck another blow against the country's illicit petroleum trade, uncovering a warehouse stocked with roughly 10,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in the Eleme Express area of Rivers State.&nbsp;The seizure was made on 12 September 2026 by personnel aboard NNS PATHFINDER during a routine anti-crude oil theft patrol covering the Eleme–Okrika–Onne axis, a corridor long associated with illegal refining and product smuggling activities in the Niger Delta.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a press statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, Nigerian Navy and made available to WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi on Monday, Naval officers found the product neatly packed into 400 jerrycans, each holding 25 litres, suggesting the site functioned not as a refining location but as a storage and distribution hub. Investigators believe the fuel was sourced from elsewhere and moved to the warehouse to await onwards sale to buyers within the local black market.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/westminster-s-time-is-coming-to-an-end-say-welsh-scottish-northern-irish-leaders-at-cardiff-summit-1789394988871">‘Westminster’s time is coming to an end,’ say Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish leaders at Cardiff summit</a>&nbsp;Notably, no illegal refining equipment or site was found at the premises, reinforcing the theory that the facility served purely as a logistics point in the wider supply chain.Naval authorities say the operation’s real significance lies beyond the volume recovered. By dismantling this storage point, the Navy has cut off a key link that illicit operators depend on to move stolen and illegally refined products to market. Officials describe such facilities as the "commercial backbone" of the illegal refining trade, arguing that disrupting them is just as critical as shutting down refining camps themselves.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tech-stocks-fall-after-ai-bosses-call-for-a-slowdown-in-reckless-progress-1789387989365">Tech stocks fall after AI bosses call for a slowdown in ‘reckless’ progress</a>&nbsp;No arrests were made, as suspected operators fled the scene upon sighting the approaching naval team. The recovered products have since been processed in line with standard anti-crude oil theft protocols.The operation forms part of the Nigerian Navy's sustained campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining across the Niger Delta, an effort officials say remains central to safeguarding the nation's petroleum resources and curbing environmental degradation linked to artisanal refining.

Naval officers found the product neatly packed into 400 jerrycans, each holding 25 litres, suggesting the site functioned not as a refining location but as a storage and distribution hub. No arrests were made, as suspected operators fled the scene upon sighting the approaching naval team.

The Nigerian Navy has struck another blow against the country's illicit petroleum trade, uncovering a warehouse stocked with roughly 10,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in the Eleme Express area of Rivers State. The seizure was made on 12 September 2026 by personnel aboard NNS PATHFINDER during a routine anti-crude oil theft patrol covering the Eleme–Okrika–Onne axis, a corridor long associated with illegal refining and product smuggling activities in the Niger Delta. In a press statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, Nigerian Navy and made available to WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi on Monday, Naval officers found the product neatly packed into 400 jerrycans, each holding 25 litres, suggesting the site functioned not as a refining location but as a storage and distribution hub. Investigators believe the fuel was sourced from elsewhere and moved to the warehouse to await onwards sale to buyers within the local black market. Also Read: ‘Westminster’s time is coming to an end,’ say Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish leaders at Cardiff summit Notably, no illegal refining equipment or site was found at the premises, reinforcing the theory that the facility served purely as a logistics point in the wider supply chain. Naval authorities say the operation’s real significance lies beyond the volume recovered. By dismantling this storage point, the Navy has cut off a key link that illicit operators depend on to move stolen and illegally refined products to market. Officials describe such facilities as the "commercial backbone" of the illegal refining trade, arguing that disrupting them is just as critical as shutting down refining camps themselves. Also Read: Tech stocks fall after AI bosses call for a slowdown in ‘reckless’ progress No arrests were made, as suspected operators fled the scene upon sighting the approaching naval team. The recovered products have since been processed in line with standard anti-crude oil theft protocols. The operation forms part of the Nigerian Navy's sustained campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining across the Niger Delta, an effort officials say remains central to safeguarding the nation's petroleum resources and curbing environmental degradation linked to artisanal refining.

Naval officers found the product neatly packed into 400 jerrycans, each holding 25 litres, suggesting the site functioned not as a refining location but as a storage and distribution hub. No arrests were made, as suspected operators fled the scene upon sighting the approaching naval team.

Nigerian Navy seizes 10,000 litres of suspected illegal fuel in Rivers State crackdown

Vice President Kashim Shettima has touched down in New Delhi to stand in for President Bola Tinubu at the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit, as Abuja works to convert its partner-country status into concrete trade and investment wins with India and other emerging powers.He heads a heavyweight delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole, Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijani, and Environment Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal, alongside other senior officials. The summit runs under the banner of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.Odumegwu-Ojukwu said ahead of the trip that Nigeria wants to explore partnerships with India spanning agriculture, artificial intelligence, technology and the digital economy, pointing to India's success in deploying tech to engage its youthful population as a model worth studying.Oduwole, meanwhile, said trade between the two countries has historically touched around $14 billion, and that the government is working to rebuild and strengthen that relationship. She noted that Indian investors have already signalled interest in meeting the Nigerian team during the visit, with talks also expected with other BRICS members. A key priority, she added, is boosting India's purchases of Nigerian crude, restoring a market that was once a major outlet for the country's oil exports.Beyond commercial talks, Shettima is billed to join wider BRICS discussions on global growth, resilience and sustainable development, plus one-on-one meetings aimed at advancing Nigeria's interests in trade, agriculture, technology and industrial growth.Nigeria became a BRICS partner country in January 2025, a status that opened the door to deeper South-South cooperation and stronger diplomatic and economic engagement with major emerging markets. The delegation is also expected to join the BRICS open session and other sideline events during the summit.

Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has touched down in New Delhi to stand in for President Bola Tinubu at the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit, as Abuja works to convert its partner-country status into concrete trade and investment wins with India and other emerging powers. He heads a heavyweight delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole, Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijani, and Environment Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal, alongside other senior officials. The summit runs under the banner of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said ahead of the trip that Nigeria wants to explore partnerships with India spanning agriculture, artificial intelligence, technology and the digital economy, pointing to India's success in deploying tech to engage its youthful population as a model worth studying. Oduwole, meanwhile, said trade between the two countries has historically touched around $14 billion, and that the government is working to rebuild and strengthen that relationship. She noted that Indian investors have already signalled interest in meeting the Nigerian team during the visit, with talks also expected with other BRICS members. A key priority, she added, is boosting India's purchases of Nigerian crude, restoring a market that was once a major outlet for the country's oil exports. Beyond commercial talks, Shettima is billed to join wider BRICS discussions on global growth, resilience and sustainable development, plus one-on-one meetings aimed at advancing Nigeria's interests in trade, agriculture, technology and industrial growth. Nigeria became a BRICS partner country in January 2025, a status that opened the door to deeper South-South cooperation and stronger diplomatic and economic engagement with major emerging markets. The delegation is also expected to join the BRICS open session and other sideline events during the summit.

Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.

VP Shettima rallies Nigeria’s BRICS bid for oil deals, tech ties and jobs for youth

Nigeria is preparing to regulate internet access for children under the age of 16, said Nigeria’s current minister of education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa.&nbsp;The announcement was made in Abuja during the launch of the government's Initiative for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria. Alausa said the planned measure is intended to strengthen online child protection. Importantly, the government has not announced an outright internet ban for children. The minister referred to “regulated access”, but did not explain whether this would involve content filtering, parental controls, age verification or restrictions imposed through internet service providers.<h2>What did Nigeria's minister say?</h2>Alausa said the government was preparing a measure under which there would eventually be regulated internet access for every Nigerian child below 16. He said further details would be announced by the relevant security authorities in the coming days or weeks.&nbsp;The minister also stressed that online content available to children should be “appropriate, credible, safe” and aligned with educational objectives and the national curriculum. That means the exact impact on children, parents, schools and internet providers remains unclear for now.<h2>Free educational data starts October 1</h2>The announcement comes alongside a separate move to make digital education cheaper. From October 1, 2026, participating mobile operators will provide 100MB of free data every day for access to approved educational websites and platforms. The initial rollout will cover senior secondary and tertiary students before being expanded. Approved platforms can include learning management systems, digital libraries, educational repositories and teacher-development services. The government says the aim is to remove data costs as a barrier to online learning.<h2>Why the policy matters</h2>Nigeria is therefore pursuing two seemingly different goals at the same time: expanding access to useful online education while placing stronger safeguards around children's internet use. The challenge will be deciding what “regulated access” means in practice. Until the government publishes the technical and legal framework, it is too early to say whether Nigerian children will face age verification, restricted websites, filtered content or other controls. For now, the key message is clear: Nigeria is not announcing an internet shutdown for under-16s. It is preparing a regulated-access system whose details are still to come.

Nigeria plans to introduce regulated internet access for children under 16 as part of online child protection measures. The government has not announced an internet ban or explained the technical system yet. 

Nigeria is preparing to regulate internet access for children under the age of 16, said Nigeria’s current minister of education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa. The announcement was made in Abuja during the launch of the government's Initiative for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria. Alausa said the planned measure is intended to strengthen online child protection. Importantly, the government has not announced an outright internet ban for children. The minister referred to “regulated access”, but did not explain whether this would involve content filtering, parental controls, age verification or restrictions imposed through internet service providers. What did Nigeria's minister say? Alausa said the government was preparing a measure under which there would eventually be regulated internet access for every Nigerian child below 16. He said further details would be announced by the relevant security authorities in the coming days or weeks. The minister also stressed that online content available to children should be “appropriate, credible, safe” and aligned with educational objectives and the national curriculum. That means the exact impact on children, parents, schools and internet providers remains unclear for now. Free educational data starts October 1 The announcement comes alongside a separate move to make digital education cheaper. From October 1, 2026, participating mobile operators will provide 100MB of free data every day for access to approved educational websites and platforms. The initial rollout will cover senior secondary and tertiary students before being expanded. Approved platforms can include learning management systems, digital libraries, educational repositories and teacher-development services. The government says the aim is to remove data costs as a barrier to online learning. Why the policy matters Nigeria is therefore pursuing two seemingly different goals at the same time: expanding access to useful online education while placing stronger safeguards around children's internet use. The challenge will be deciding what “regulated access” means in practice. Until the government publishes the technical and legal framework, it is too early to say whether Nigerian children will face age verification, restricted websites, filtered content or other controls. For now, the key message is clear: Nigeria is not announcing an internet shutdown for under-16s. It is preparing a regulated-access system whose details are still to come.

Nigeria plans to introduce regulated internet access for children under 16 as part of online child protection measures. The government has not announced an internet ban or explained the technical system yet.&nbsp;

Nigeria plans to regulate internet access for children under 16: What we know so far

A 34-year-old man identified as Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu, who allegedly masterminded cocaine shipments to Saudi Arabia, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos.Ebubechukwu, who was arrested during a sting operation at Article Market, opposite Trade Fair Market in the Ojo area of Lagos on Friday, September 4, 2026, was allegedly operating under the cover of a herbal tea business.His arrest followed an intelligence-led investigation into the interception of 1.2 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed inside phone chargers and destined for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The consignment was intercepted at a courier company in Lagos on July 31.According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.Investigators discovered that the suspect had previously been arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in 2011 after allegedly ingesting 900 grammes of cocaine and 130 grammes of heroin while attempting to travel to Austria.He was prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The agency said he subsequently changed his name from Dunu Chukwuyenre Enoch to Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu before allegedly returning to drug trafficking.A search of his residence at Yemishola Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, also led to the recovery of phone chargers similar to those used to conceal the intercepted cocaine. Their internal components had reportedly been removed to create compartments for drugs.The arrest was part of a wider NDLEA crackdown across nine states in which the agency said it recovered more than two million opioid pills, tonnes of cannabis, methamphetamine and other controlled substances.At the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives recovered 966,200 tablets of Tramadol 225mg valued at more than N1.1 billion. The drugs were concealed among thrift trousers in a 21-carton consignment imported from Pakistan.In another operation at the airport, 57.8kg of Loud, a potent synthetic strain of cannabis valued at more than N173 million, was recovered from cartons of disposable hand gloves in a shipment from Singapore. The consignment had remained unclaimed for weeks before a joint examination involving the NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies on September 3.In Ondo State, officers intercepted a 20,000-litre fuel tanker, marked MKA 960 XC, along the Akoko-Lokoja Expressway on September 4 after the driver allegedly refused to stop. The driver later abandoned the tanker at a church premises in Ugbe Akoko and fled into the bush.A search of the vehicle uncovered a concealed compartment containing 165 bags of cannabis weighing 2,145kg, alongside the legitimate fuel cargo reportedly destined for Jos, Plateau State.At the Lagos Port, the NDLEA also intercepted 598.08kg, comprising 890 packets, of cannabis-infused cookies and gummies in a 40-foot container on September 2. The agency linked the consignment to three suspects—Yashim Dauji, Larry Ifeanyi and Joseph Moji—who were previously arrested following the seizure of 842.54kg of cannabis-laced cookies at Tin Can Island Port.In Adamawa State, 864,000 opioid pills, particularly tramadol, were recovered from a residence linked to a fleeing suspect, Patrick KC Frank, in the Damilu-Jambutu axis of Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area.Frank allegedly rammed his Honda Civic into an NDLEA patrol vehicle before escaping.Another suspect, 35-year-old Calistus Ebubechukwu, described by the agency as a major methamphetamine supplier operating between Lagos, Mubi and Michika, was arrested in Michika with 2kg of methamphetamine.The NDLEA also intercepted Attahiru Hussaini at Namtari checkpoint in Mubi on August 31. He was allegedly transporting tramadol and other opioids concealed in a soap-laden Ford Galaxy bus marked JJM-953XD.In Lagos, officers recovered 2,386.9kg of cannabis, 350 grammes of cocaine, more than 100kg of various grades of tramadol, 9.7 litres of codeine syrup and 4kg of Rohypnol in the Gbaji area. Two suspects, Damilare Francis and Emeh Emmanuel, were also arrested at Agbara with 720kg of cannabis.Meanwhile, three suspects—Saidu Mustapha, 35; Zaharadeen Salisu, 29; and AbdulSalam Abdullahi, 25—were arrested in Kogi State with 636kg of cannabis allegedly concealed in chicken manure aboard a bus travelling from Owo in Ondo State to Jos, Plateau State.In Taraba State, 58-year-old Kelechi Unachukwu was arrested along the Zaki-Biam Road in Wukari Local Government Area with more than 109kg of controlled substances, including tramadol, diazepam, pentazocine, phenobarbital, Exol-5, nitrazepam, bromazepam and pregabalin. The drugs were allegedly being conveyed in his Toyota Corolla from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Yola, Adamawa State.In Kaduna, NDLEA operatives intercepted a truck carrying bags of cement along the Zaria-Kano Expressway and recovered 1,179kg of skunk.In Bauchi, a 25-year-old suspect, Hamza Dahiru, was arrested in a follow-up operation after the seizure of 322.5kg of cannabis in Deba town, Gombe State, on September 1.In Ekiti State, two suspects, Chuks Alex, 50, and Asafa Adekunle, 35, were arrested after NDLEA officers discovered and destroyed a four-hectare cannabis farm in Efon-Alaaye forest. The operation also led to the recovery of 117kg of already harvested cannabis.In Enugu State, a 20-year-old man, Obinna David, was arrested at Ugbema Junction on September 5 with 40,590 capsules of tramadol.Beyond the arrests and seizures, the NDLEA said its commands across the country continued with drug-abuse awareness campaigns under its War Against Drug Abuse programme. The sensitisation activities targeted schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities.The agency said its recent activities included an enlightenment lecture for nursing mothers and nurses at Ibereko Primary Health Centre in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, as well as engagements with youths in Umouji/Okwo community in Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, and staff and concessionaires at the Saipem-Daewoo, NLNG terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers involved in the operations and urged them to sustain what he described as a balanced approach to drug control.Marwa said traffickers who attempt to evade law enforcement by adopting new identities or operating behind legitimate businesses would continue to be tracked down.

According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.

A 34-year-old man identified as Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu, who allegedly masterminded cocaine shipments to Saudi Arabia, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos. Ebubechukwu, who was arrested during a sting operation at Article Market, opposite Trade Fair Market in the Ojo area of Lagos on Friday, September 4, 2026, was allegedly operating under the cover of a herbal tea business. His arrest followed an intelligence-led investigation into the interception of 1.2 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed inside phone chargers and destined for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The consignment was intercepted at a courier company in Lagos on July 31. According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted. Investigators discovered that the suspect had previously been arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in 2011 after allegedly ingesting 900 grammes of cocaine and 130 grammes of heroin while attempting to travel to Austria. He was prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The agency said he subsequently changed his name from Dunu Chukwuyenre Enoch to Dunu Bethel Ebubechukwu before allegedly returning to drug trafficking. A search of his residence at Yemishola Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, also led to the recovery of phone chargers similar to those used to conceal the intercepted cocaine. Their internal components had reportedly been removed to create compartments for drugs. The arrest was part of a wider NDLEA crackdown across nine states in which the agency said it recovered more than two million opioid pills, tonnes of cannabis, methamphetamine and other controlled substances. At the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives recovered 966,200 tablets of Tramadol 225mg valued at more than N1.1 billion. The drugs were concealed among thrift trousers in a 21-carton consignment imported from Pakistan. In another operation at the airport, 57.8kg of Loud, a potent synthetic strain of cannabis valued at more than N173 million, was recovered from cartons of disposable hand gloves in a shipment from Singapore. The consignment had remained unclaimed for weeks before a joint examination involving the NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies on September 3. In Ondo State, officers intercepted a 20,000-litre fuel tanker, marked MKA 960 XC, along the Akoko-Lokoja Expressway on September 4 after the driver allegedly refused to stop. The driver later abandoned the tanker at a church premises in Ugbe Akoko and fled into the bush. A search of the vehicle uncovered a concealed compartment containing 165 bags of cannabis weighing 2,145kg, alongside the legitimate fuel cargo reportedly destined for Jos, Plateau State. At the Lagos Port, the NDLEA also intercepted 598.08kg, comprising 890 packets, of cannabis-infused cookies and gummies in a 40-foot container on September 2. The agency linked the consignment to three suspects—Yashim Dauji, Larry Ifeanyi and Joseph Moji—who were previously arrested following the seizure of 842.54kg of cannabis-laced cookies at Tin Can Island Port. In Adamawa State, 864,000 opioid pills, particularly tramadol, were recovered from a residence linked to a fleeing suspect, Patrick KC Frank, in the Damilu-Jambutu axis of Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area. Frank allegedly rammed his Honda Civic into an NDLEA patrol vehicle before escaping. Another suspect, 35-year-old Calistus Ebubechukwu, described by the agency as a major methamphetamine supplier operating between Lagos, Mubi and Michika, was arrested in Michika with 2kg of methamphetamine. The NDLEA also intercepted Attahiru Hussaini at Namtari checkpoint in Mubi on August 31. He was allegedly transporting tramadol and other opioids concealed in a soap-laden Ford Galaxy bus marked JJM-953XD. In Lagos, officers recovered 2,386.9kg of cannabis, 350 grammes of cocaine, more than 100kg of various grades of tramadol, 9.7 litres of codeine syrup and 4kg of Rohypnol in the Gbaji area. Two suspects, Damilare Francis and Emeh Emmanuel, were also arrested at Agbara with 720kg of cannabis. Meanwhile, three suspects—Saidu Mustapha, 35; Zaharadeen Salisu, 29; and AbdulSalam Abdullahi, 25—were arrested in Kogi State with 636kg of cannabis allegedly concealed in chicken manure aboard a bus travelling from Owo in Ondo State to Jos, Plateau State. In Taraba State, 58-year-old Kelechi Unachukwu was arrested along the Zaki-Biam Road in Wukari Local Government Area with more than 109kg of controlled substances, including tramadol, diazepam, pentazocine, phenobarbital, Exol-5, nitrazepam, bromazepam and pregabalin. The drugs were allegedly being conveyed in his Toyota Corolla from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Yola, Adamawa State. In Kaduna, NDLEA operatives intercepted a truck carrying bags of cement along the Zaria-Kano Expressway and recovered 1,179kg of skunk. In Bauchi, a 25-year-old suspect, Hamza Dahiru, was arrested in a follow-up operation after the seizure of 322.5kg of cannabis in Deba town, Gombe State, on September 1. In Ekiti State, two suspects, Chuks Alex, 50, and Asafa Adekunle, 35, were arrested after NDLEA officers discovered and destroyed a four-hectare cannabis farm in Efon-Alaaye forest. The operation also led to the recovery of 117kg of already harvested cannabis. In Enugu State, a 20-year-old man, Obinna David, was arrested at Ugbema Junction on September 5 with 40,590 capsules of tramadol. Beyond the arrests and seizures, the NDLEA said its commands across the country continued with drug-abuse awareness campaigns under its War Against Drug Abuse programme. The sensitisation activities targeted schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities. The agency said its recent activities included an enlightenment lecture for nursing mothers and nurses at Ibereko Primary Health Centre in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, as well as engagements with youths in Umouji/Okwo community in Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, and staff and concessionaires at the Saipem-Daewoo, NLNG terminal in Bonny, Rivers State. NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers involved in the operations and urged them to sustain what he described as a balanced approach to drug control. Marwa said traffickers who attempt to evade law enforcement by adopting new identities or operating behind legitimate businesses would continue to be tracked down.

According to the NDLEA, Ebubechukwu admitted during interrogation that he had masterminded previous illicit drug shipments. He also reportedly discarded his telephone SIM card after learning that the latest consignment had been intercepted.

NDLEA arrests convicted cocaine trafficker disguised as herbal tea merchant

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another significant operational gain in its ongoing efforts against crude oil theft and illegal refining, with the discovery of 3 suspected illegal refining sites, 6 reservoirs and approximately 99,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) across operational areas in Rivers and Delta States.&nbsp;The discoveries were made in separate operations conducted by Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH and NNS DELTA on 31 August 2026, following credible intelligence on suspected illegal petroleum activities. The operations also uncovered illegal refining infrastructure, including a large refining oven, storage facilities and dugout reservoirs containing suspected stolen crude oil.&nbsp;The combined discoveries represent a substantial disruption to illicit petroleum activities, particularly the storage and processing infrastructure required to sustain the illegal trade. The identified sites, facilities and recovered products were appropriately handled in accordance with established procedures.The latest successes demonstrate the Nigerian Navy's ability to maintain pressure across multiple operational areas while denying criminal networks the infrastructure required to sustain crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.&nbsp;

The Nigerian Navy discovered three suspected illegal refining sites, six reservoirs and about 99,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and illegally refined AGO in Rivers and Delta states. The operations on August 31 also uncovered refining equipment and storage facilities.

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another significant operational gain in its ongoing efforts against crude oil theft and illegal refining, with the discovery of 3 suspected illegal refining sites, 6 reservoirs and approximately 99,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) across operational areas in Rivers and Delta States. The discoveries were made in separate operations conducted by Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH and NNS DELTA on 31 August 2026, following credible intelligence on suspected illegal petroleum activities. The operations also uncovered illegal refining infrastructure, including a large refining oven, storage facilities and dugout reservoirs containing suspected stolen crude oil. The combined discoveries represent a substantial disruption to illicit petroleum activities, particularly the storage and processing infrastructure required to sustain the illegal trade. The identified sites, facilities and recovered products were appropriately handled in accordance with established procedures. The latest successes demonstrate the Nigerian Navy's ability to maintain pressure across multiple operational areas while denying criminal networks the infrastructure required to sustain crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.

The Nigerian Navy discovered three suspected illegal refining sites, six reservoirs and about 99,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and illegally refined AGO in Rivers and Delta states. The operations on August 31 also uncovered refining equipment and storage facilities.

Nigerian Navy discovers 99,000 litres of suspected stolen, illegally refined products as it intensifies anti-crude oil theft operations

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has handed over nine suspected stowaways rescued from a merchant vessel, MT EVGENIA, to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration and strengthen maritime security.The suspects were handed over on Friday (Aug 21), following their rescue and preliminary investigation by the Nigerian Navy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-2027-elections-presidential-governorship-candidates-face-n571bn-campaign-spending-ceiling-1787284847113">Nigeria 2027 elections: Presidential, governorship candidates face N571bn campaign spending ceiling</a>In a press statement made available to WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi, and signed by the Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the nine individuals were discovered on Wednesday (Aug 19), concealed inside the propeller compartment of MT EVGENIA. They were safely evacuated from the vessel and taken to NNS BEECROFT for preliminary investigation and profiling.The suspects were identified as Thompson Vincent, 23; Emmanuel Philip, 24; Tobi Olalekan, 32; Omotayo Adebowale, 43; Abdullahi Idowu, 21; Tunde Mustapha, 19; Jamiu Ismaila, 25; Ibrahim Alabi, 30; and Christian Kadiri, 22.According to preliminary findings, the suspects allegedly boarded MT EVGENIA while the vessel was berthed at Flour Mills Jetty, Apapa, with the intention of travelling illegally to Europe.For context, a stowaway is a person who conceals themselves aboard a vessel in an attempt to travel to another country without the required authorisation. Such attempts can expose individuals to serious risks, including injury or death, particularly when they hide in confined and hazardous areas of vessels.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-2027-elections-presidential-candidates-party-leaders-sign-national-peace-accord-in-abuja-1787146838145">Nigeria's presidential candidates, party leaders sign National Peace Accord</a>The incident highlights the wider implications of irregular migration attempts, which can have consequences beyond Nigeria and affect maritime security and safety across the West African coast.NNS BEECROFT therefore urged parents, guardians, and other community leaders to discourage young people from attempting to board seagoing vessels illegally and to raise awareness of the dangers associated with stowaway activities.Commodore A. Adams-Aliu said the ship would continue to support the mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), by helping protect Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting joint security operations.He reaffirmed the commitment of NNS BEECROFT to professional naval operations aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, defending national sovereignty and contributing to internal stability.The handover to the Nigeria Immigration Service further underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing irregular migration and strengthening security along Nigeria’s maritime routes.&nbsp;

Nine suspected stowaways were found hiding in one of the most dangerous parts of a merchant vessel in Nigeria. After being rescued by the Navy, they were handed over to immigration authorities as investigators probe their alleged Europe-bound journey.

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has handed over nine suspected stowaways rescued from a merchant vessel, MT EVGENIA, to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration and strengthen maritime security. The suspects were handed over on Friday (Aug 21), following their rescue and preliminary investigation by the Nigerian Navy. Also read | Nigeria 2027 elections: Presidential, governorship candidates face N571bn campaign spending ceiling In a press statement made available to WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi, and signed by the Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the nine individuals were discovered on Wednesday (Aug 19), concealed inside the propeller compartment of MT EVGENIA. They were safely evacuated from the vessel and taken to NNS BEECROFT for preliminary investigation and profiling. The suspects were identified as Thompson Vincent, 23; Emmanuel Philip, 24; Tobi Olalekan, 32; Omotayo Adebowale, 43; Abdullahi Idowu, 21; Tunde Mustapha, 19; Jamiu Ismaila, 25; Ibrahim Alabi, 30; and Christian Kadiri, 22. According to preliminary findings, the suspects allegedly boarded MT EVGENIA while the vessel was berthed at Flour Mills Jetty, Apapa, with the intention of travelling illegally to Europe. For context, a stowaway is a person who conceals themselves aboard a vessel in an attempt to travel to another country without the required authorisation. Such attempts can expose individuals to serious risks, including injury or death, particularly when they hide in confined and hazardous areas of vessels. Also read | Nigeria's presidential candidates, party leaders sign National Peace Accord The incident highlights the wider implications of irregular migration attempts, which can have consequences beyond Nigeria and affect maritime security and safety across the West African coast. NNS BEECROFT therefore urged parents, guardians, and other community leaders to discourage young people from attempting to board seagoing vessels illegally and to raise awareness of the dangers associated with stowaway activities. Commodore A. Adams-Aliu said the ship would continue to support the mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), by helping protect Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting joint security operations. He reaffirmed the commitment of NNS BEECROFT to professional naval operations aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, defending national sovereignty and contributing to internal stability. The handover to the Nigeria Immigration Service further underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing irregular migration and strengthening security along Nigeria’s maritime routes.

Nine suspected stowaways were found hiding in one of the most dangerous parts of a merchant vessel in Nigeria. After being rescued by the Navy, they were handed over to immigration authorities as investigators probe their alleged Europe-bound journey.

Nigerian Navy hands over nine suspected stowaways to immigration service

A deadly Boko Haram attack has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in Africa's Lake Chad Basin. According to reports, around 10 Nigerian soldiers were killed after militants launched a deadly assault near Diffa, a military garrison town in southeastern Niger, close to the borders of Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon.

Authorities confirmed casualties following the attack, while security forces launched operations to secure the surrounding area. Niger's state media reported that military personnel were killed and equipment destroyed during the assault. The governor of Diffa, General Mahamadou Ibrahim, traveled to the town to oversee the burial of the fallen soldiers.

The Lake Chad Basin has long served as a stronghold for Boko Haram, which began its insurgency in 2009. The extremist group has killed thousands of people and displaced millions across northeastern Nigeria, with violence spreading into neighboring Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

Boko Haram Launches Deadly Attack Near Lake Chad | 10 Nigerian Soldiers Killed

Emotional scenes unfolded in Nigeria's Oyo State as students rescued after months in captivity reunited with their families. The students, who were abducted by Islamist militants in May, were freed during a security operation that also led to the arrest of eight suspected militants. Families expressed relief and gratitude as they welcomed their children home after weeks of uncertainty. Nigerian authorities said school kidnappings remain a serious security challenge, with armed groups frequently targeting students to pressure the government and demand ransom. The Nigerian Senate has also approved financial assistance for the families of those who lost their lives during the rescue mission.

Nigeria students reunite with families after rescue | Hostages freed months after Islamist kidnapping 

Nigeria's drug enforcement agency Sunday (Jan 04) said it had arrested 22 Indian crew members of a merchant ship after 31.5 kilogrammes of cocaine was found on the vessel at Lagos's main port.&nbsp;The seizure was made on January 2 aboard &nbsp;MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.&nbsp;Nigeria has long been considered a trafficking and production hub for drugs bound for Europe and other African countries.&nbsp;The agency said in November that it arrested 20 Filipino sailors caught ferrying at least 20 kilogrammes of cocaine from Brazil to the same port.&nbsp;Earlier that month, NDLEA said it was working with US and British anti-drug agencies to investigate a cartel behind the importation of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine discovered in a container at a Lagos port.<h2>Over 30 killed, several kidnapped in Nigeria</h2> In a separate incident, armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday.&nbsp;The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said.&nbsp;"Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped," Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said.&nbsp;President Bola Tinubu's office said the attackers may have been "terrorists" fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria followed Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group.&nbsp;The attackers "will be caught and brought to justice", along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga.Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs.&nbsp;Gangs -- known in Nigeria as "bandits" -- frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria.&nbsp;Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-talks-premature-rubio-says-us-focused-on-policy-changes-united-states-marco-rubio-america-caracas-maduro-1767545637894">Venezuela election talk ‘premature’: Rubio says US ready to work with current leaders if they make ‘right decision’</a>&nbsp;In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state.&nbsp;Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid.&nbsp;The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school.&nbsp;The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday's raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police.&nbsp;"Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence," the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page.

The seizure was made on January 2 aboard  MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.

Nigeria's drug enforcement agency Sunday (Jan 04) said it had arrested 22 Indian crew members of a merchant ship after 31.5 kilogrammes of cocaine was found on the vessel at Lagos's main port. The seizure was made on January 2 aboard MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement. Nigeria has long been considered a trafficking and production hub for drugs bound for Europe and other African countries. The agency said in November that it arrested 20 Filipino sailors caught ferrying at least 20 kilogrammes of cocaine from Brazil to the same port. Earlier that month, NDLEA said it was working with US and British anti-drug agencies to investigate a cartel behind the importation of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine discovered in a container at a Lagos port. Over 30 killed, several kidnapped in Nigeria In a separate incident, armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday. The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said. "Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped," Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said. President Bola Tinubu's office said the attackers may have been "terrorists" fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria followed Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group. The attackers "will be caught and brought to justice", along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga. Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs. Gangs -- known in Nigeria as "bandits" -- frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria. Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months. Also Read: Venezuela election talk ‘premature’: Rubio says US ready to work with current leaders if they make ‘right decision’ In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state. Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid. The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school. The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday's raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police. "Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence," the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page.

The seizure was made on January 2 aboard &nbsp;MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.

Nigeria arrests 22 Indian ship crew members in cocaine seizure

Fifty of the more than 300 children snatched by gunmen from a Catholic school in Nigeria have escaped their captors, a Christian group said in a statement Sunday. "We have received some good news as fifty pupils escaped and have reunited with their parents," said the Christian Association of Nigeria in a statement, adding they escaped between Friday and Saturday.&nbsp;Gunmen on Friday raided St Mary's co-education school in Niger state, taking 303 children and 12 teachers in one of the largest mass kidnappings in Nigeria.&nbsp;The abduction came after gunmen had on Monday stormed a secondary school in neighbouring Kebbi state, abducting 25 girls, as security fears mount in Africa's most populous nation, sparking a wave of school closures across other parts of the country.&nbsp;The number of boys and girls - aged between eight and 18 years - kidnapped from St Mary's is almost half of the school's student population of 629.&nbsp;The Nigerian government has yet to comment&nbsp;on the number of students and teachers abducted. "As much as we receive the return of these 50 children that escaped with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims," CAN chairman in Niger State, Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, said in the statement.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The abduction came after gunmen had on Monday stormed a secondary school in neighbouring Kebbi state, abducting 25 girls, as security fears mount in Africa's most populous nation, sparking a wave of school closures across other parts of the country.

Fifty of the more than 300 children snatched by gunmen from a Catholic school in Nigeria have escaped their captors, a Christian group said in a statement Sunday. "We have received some good news as fifty pupils escaped and have reunited with their parents," said the Christian Association of Nigeria in a statement, adding they escaped between Friday and Saturday. Gunmen on Friday raided St Mary's co-education school in Niger state, taking 303 children and 12 teachers in one of the largest mass kidnappings in Nigeria. The abduction came after gunmen had on Monday stormed a secondary school in neighbouring Kebbi state, abducting 25 girls, as security fears mount in Africa's most populous nation, sparking a wave of school closures across other parts of the country. The number of boys and girls - aged between eight and 18 years - kidnapped from St Mary's is almost half of the school's student population of 629. The Nigerian government has yet to comment on the number of students and teachers abducted. "As much as we receive the return of these 50 children that escaped with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims," CAN chairman in Niger State, Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, said in the statement. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The abduction came after gunmen had on Monday stormed a secondary school in neighbouring Kebbi state, abducting 25 girls, as security fears mount in Africa's most populous nation, sparking a wave of school closures across other parts of the country.

50 out of over 300 abducted Nigerian schoolchildren escaped, Christian Group confirms

A bomb exploded in a teahouse in a village in northeast Nigeria, killing 19 people and wounding two dozen more, the second major attack in a few weeks, security sources said on Thursday.

The blast in Kawuri village in Borno State on Wednesday evening was one of the deadliest in recent years in northeast Nigeria, where violence from a grinding jihadist conflict has been on the decline.

"There was an explosion at a tea joint in Kawuri around 8:00 pm yesterday. We have recovered 19 dead bodies and 27 injured," Ibrahim Liman, a member of an anti-jihadist militia that works with the army, told AFP.&nbsp;

Two other militiamen confirmed the toll in Kawuri, around 50 kilometres (around 30 miles) from the state capital Maiduguri.

No group has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's blast, but the Boko Haram jihadist group and their rival Islamic State West Africa Province are both active in Borno.

Borno State governor on Thursday declared a 24-hour curfew after the attack, a police statement said.

The curfew was imposed as Nigerians demonstrated nationwide Thursday over a cost of living crisis, including in the capital Abuja and Maiduguri.

Islamist militants still carry out ambushes, roadside bombings and kidnappings from rural hideouts, but bomb attacks in towns and villages are now less common in the northeast.

<h2>- 'Surprise' attack -</h2>

"Boko Haram struck in Kawuri last night. They took us all by surprise because it has been a while without such attacks," Babakura Kolo, a militia commander, told AFP.

The wounded were transported to hospitals in Maiduguri, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-releases-us-journalist-evan-gershkovich-in-major-prisoner-swap-report-746308">Russia releases US journalist Evan Gershkovich in major prisoner swap: Report</a>

Nigeria's military did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation.

The Kawuri attack came just weeks after multiple suicide attackers killed 32 people in Borno State's Gwoza area when they targeted a wedding, a hospital and a funeral.

Large bomb attacks have become rare since Nigeria's army pushed militants back from territory they controlled at the height of the conflict in 2014. Chadian forces helped drive jihadists out.

Tackling insecurity was one of the priorities for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he came to office more than a year ago.&nbsp;

Nigeria's armed forces are also fighting heavily armed gangs in the country's northwest.

More than 40,000 people have been killed by the jihadist conflict in the northeast, and another two million have been displaced since 2009.

Hundreds of thousands of people have also been displaced in the northwest and central states of Nigeria, where gangs known locally as bandits target villages and farms for mass kidnapping for ransom.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A bomb exploded in a teahouse in a village in northeast Nigeria, killing 19 people and wounding two dozen more, the second major attack in a few weeks, security sources said on Thursday.

A bomb exploded in a teahouse in a village in northeast Nigeria, killing 19 people and wounding two dozen more, the second major attack in a few weeks, security sources said on Thursday. The blast in Kawuri village in Borno State on Wednesday evening was one of the deadliest in recent years in northeast Nigeria, where violence from a grinding jihadist conflict has been on the decline. "There was an explosion at a tea joint in Kawuri around 8:00 pm yesterday. We have recovered 19 dead bodies and 27 injured," Ibrahim Liman, a member of an anti-jihadist militia that works with the army, told AFP. Two other militiamen confirmed the toll in Kawuri, around 50 kilometres (around 30 miles) from the state capital Maiduguri. No group has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's blast, but the Boko Haram jihadist group and their rival Islamic State West Africa Province are both active in Borno. Borno State governor on Thursday declared a 24-hour curfew after the attack, a police statement said. The curfew was imposed as Nigerians demonstrated nationwide Thursday over a cost of living crisis, including in the capital Abuja and Maiduguri. Islamist militants still carry out ambushes, roadside bombings and kidnappings from rural hideouts, but bomb attacks in towns and villages are now less common in the northeast. - 'Surprise' attack - "Boko Haram struck in Kawuri last night. They took us all by surprise because it has been a while without such attacks," Babakura Kolo, a militia commander, told AFP. The wounded were transported to hospitals in Maiduguri, he said. Also read: Russia releases US journalist Evan Gershkovich in major prisoner swap: Report Nigeria's military did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation. The Kawuri attack came just weeks after multiple suicide attackers killed 32 people in Borno State's Gwoza area when they targeted a wedding, a hospital and a funeral. Large bomb attacks have become rare since Nigeria's army pushed militants back from territory they controlled at the height of the conflict in 2014. Chadian forces helped drive jihadists out. Tackling insecurity was one of the priorities for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he came to office more than a year ago. Nigeria's armed forces are also fighting heavily armed gangs in the country's northwest. More than 40,000 people have been killed by the jihadist conflict in the northeast, and another two million have been displaced since 2009. Hundreds of thousands of people have also been displaced in the northwest and central states of Nigeria, where gangs known locally as bandits target villages and farms for mass kidnapping for ransom. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Deadly bomb blast in Nigerian teahouse kills 19, sparks curfew

At least 22&nbsp;students were killed on Friday when a school in central Nigeria collapsed on pupils taking exams, according to an AFP correspondent.

Trapped students were heard crying for help under the rubble after the Saint Academy school in Jos North district of Plateau State fell in on classrooms.

Mechanical diggers tried to rescue the victims while parents desperately looked for their children.

Officials have so far only said “several students” were killed but an AFP reporter saw five dead bodies in one hospital morgue and 11 in another. All were wearing school uniforms.

With his mother at his hospital bedside, injured student Wulliya Ibrahim told AFP: “I entered the class not more than five minutes when I heard a sound, and the next thing is I found myself here.”

“We are many in the class, we are writing our exams,” he said.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the two-storey building housing Saint Academy collapsed killing “several students” without giving details.

“NEMA and other critical stakeholders are presently carrying out Search and Rescue operations,” it said.

A resident at the scene Chika Obioha told AFP he saw at least eight bodies at the site and that dozens more had been injured.

“Everyone is helping out to see if we can rescue more people,” he said.

The AFP correspondent said he saw 11 bodies in the morgue at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital and five dead taken into the mortuary at the Our Lady of Apostles Hospital in Jos.

At least 15 rescued and injured students were admitted, officials at the Our Lady of Apostles Hospital said.

Officials at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital did not comment.

It was not immediately clear what caused the collapse but residents said it came after three days of heavy rains in Plateau.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-release-thousands-of-prisoners-early-to-avert-collapse-of-overcrowded-system-740371">UK to release thousands of prisoners early to avert 'collapse' of overcrowded system</a>

Building collapses are fairly common in Africa’s most populous nation because of lax enforcement of building standards, negligence and use of low-quality materials.

At least 45 people were killed in 2021 when a high-rise building under construction collapsed in the upscale Ikoyi district in Nigeria’s economic capital Lagos.

Ten people were killed when a three-storey building collapsed in the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos the year after.

Since 2005, at least 152 buildings have collapsed in Lagos, according to a South African university researcher investigating construction disasters.

Bad workmanship, low-quality materials and corruption to bypass official oversight are often blamed for Nigerian building disasters.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

At least 22 students were killed on Friday when a school in central Nigeria collapsed on pupils taking exams, according to an AFP correspondent. Trapped students were heard crying for help under the rubble after the Saint Academy school in Jos North district of Plateau State fell in on classrooms.

At least 22 students were killed on Friday when a school in central Nigeria collapsed on pupils taking exams, according to an AFP correspondent. Trapped students were heard crying for help under the rubble after the Saint Academy school in Jos North district of Plateau State fell in on classrooms. Mechanical diggers tried to rescue the victims while parents desperately looked for their children. Officials have so far only said “several students” were killed but an AFP reporter saw five dead bodies in one hospital morgue and 11 in another. All were wearing school uniforms. With his mother at his hospital bedside, injured student Wulliya Ibrahim told AFP: “I entered the class not more than five minutes when I heard a sound, and the next thing is I found myself here.” “We are many in the class, we are writing our exams,” he said. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the two-storey building housing Saint Academy collapsed killing “several students” without giving details. “NEMA and other critical stakeholders are presently carrying out Search and Rescue operations,” it said. A resident at the scene Chika Obioha told AFP he saw at least eight bodies at the site and that dozens more had been injured. “Everyone is helping out to see if we can rescue more people,” he said. The AFP correspondent said he saw 11 bodies in the morgue at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital and five dead taken into the mortuary at the Our Lady of Apostles Hospital in Jos. At least 15 rescued and injured students were admitted, officials at the Our Lady of Apostles Hospital said. Officials at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital did not comment. It was not immediately clear what caused the collapse but residents said it came after three days of heavy rains in Plateau. Also read: UK to release thousands of prisoners early to avert 'collapse' of overcrowded system Building collapses are fairly common in Africa’s most populous nation because of lax enforcement of building standards, negligence and use of low-quality materials. At least 45 people were killed in 2021 when a high-rise building under construction collapsed in the upscale Ikoyi district in Nigeria’s economic capital Lagos. Ten people were killed when a three-storey building collapsed in the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos the year after. Since 2005, at least 152 buildings have collapsed in Lagos, according to a South African university researcher investigating construction disasters. Bad workmanship, low-quality materials and corruption to bypass official oversight are often blamed for Nigerian building disasters. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nigeria school collapse: 22 students killed during exam, rescue efforts underway

Residents said on Monday that gunmen attacked the village of Yargoje in northwest Nigeria over the weekend, killing at least 50 people and kidnapping an unspecified number, including women and children.

Nigerian gunmen kill at least 50 in raid on a northwest village

Nigerian&nbsp;union leaders on Tuesday suspended a nationwide strike to allow for more wage talks after they disrupted flights, shut down the national power grid and closed public offices and schools.

The stoppage called by two main&nbsp;unions, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), came as Africa's most populous nation struggles with soaring inflation and an unstable naira currency.

On Monday, union workers shut down the national grid, stalled domestic flights and closed most federal offices, ports, petrol stations and courts to demand the government increase its offer for a higher minimum salary.

The government late Monday said the&nbsp;unions&nbsp;had agreed to another week of negotiations to try to reach an agreement.

After consultations on the government's position with their members on Tuesday, NLC and TUC said they had called off the strike for seven days.

"There is a greater need to create the right ambience for negotiation to continue unhindered," the two&nbsp;unions&nbsp;said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The indefinite nationwide strike action is therefore relaxed for one week from today to allow the Federal Government commit to a concrete and acceptable National Minimum Wage."

Unions&nbsp;had been demanding a minimum monthly wage of 494,000 naira (around $330), up from the current level of 30,000 naira.&nbsp;

The government said late on Monday it was "committed to a National Minimum Wage that is higher than N60,000" and that the two sides would meet "every day for the next week" in order to reach a deal.

The&nbsp;unions&nbsp;are also protesting for the reversal of a steep electricity tariff hike, one of the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

They said&nbsp;unions&nbsp;were "deeply disappointed by the government's silence and lack of concrete action" on the tariff.

Since coming to office a year ago, Tinubu has ended a fuel subsidy and currency controls, leading to a tripling of petrol prices and a spike in living costs as the naira has slid against the dollar.

The government has asked Nigerians to give time for the reforms to work, saying they will draw more foreign investment, but the measures have&nbsp;hit spending power hard.

<h2>Stranded</h2>

The second day of the strike had been more mixed than Monday.&nbsp;

Before the suspension, in Abuja some ministry employees returned to work though most offices and the National Assembly building were still padlocked, AFP correspondents saw.

Aviation union members had shut the entrance of the domestic airport in Lagos, the country's economic capital, but it was later reopened.

Though domestic flights were impacted, international flights were still operating on Tuesday, the spokesman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria said.&nbsp;

Eight members of Nigeria's Super Eagles football squad, including winger Ademola Lookman, were stranded on Monday by flight disruptions and could not make a World Cup qualifier training session, a team spokesman said.

NLC is an umbrella of dozens of&nbsp;unions&nbsp;with tens of thousands of members, from civil servants and teachers to oil sector workers and transport employees.

Nigerian union leaders on Tuesday suspended a nationwide strike to allow for more wage talks after they disrupted flights, shut down the national power grid and closed public offices and schools.

Nigerian union leaders on Tuesday suspended a nationwide strike to allow for more wage talks after they disrupted flights, shut down the national power grid and closed public offices and schools. The stoppage called by two main unions, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), came as Africa's most populous nation struggles with soaring inflation and an unstable naira currency. On Monday, union workers shut down the national grid, stalled domestic flights and closed most federal offices, ports, petrol stations and courts to demand the government increase its offer for a higher minimum salary. The government late Monday said the unions had agreed to another week of negotiations to try to reach an agreement. After consultations on the government's position with their members on Tuesday, NLC and TUC said they had called off the strike for seven days. "There is a greater need to create the right ambience for negotiation to continue unhindered," the two unions said in a statement. "The indefinite nationwide strike action is therefore relaxed for one week from today to allow the Federal Government commit to a concrete and acceptable National Minimum Wage." Unions had been demanding a minimum monthly wage of 494,000 naira (around $330), up from the current level of 30,000 naira. The government said late on Monday it was "committed to a National Minimum Wage that is higher than N60,000" and that the two sides would meet "every day for the next week" in order to reach a deal. The unions are also protesting for the reversal of a steep electricity tariff hike, one of the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. They said unions were "deeply disappointed by the government's silence and lack of concrete action" on the tariff. Since coming to office a year ago, Tinubu has ended a fuel subsidy and currency controls, leading to a tripling of petrol prices and a spike in living costs as the naira has slid against the dollar. The government has asked Nigerians to give time for the reforms to work, saying they will draw more foreign investment, but the measures have hit spending power hard. Stranded The second day of the strike had been more mixed than Monday. Before the suspension, in Abuja some ministry employees returned to work though most offices and the National Assembly building were still padlocked, AFP correspondents saw. Aviation union members had shut the entrance of the domestic airport in Lagos, the country's economic capital, but it was later reopened. Though domestic flights were impacted, international flights were still operating on Tuesday, the spokesman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria said. Eight members of Nigeria's Super Eagles football squad, including winger Ademola Lookman, were stranded on Monday by flight disruptions and could not make a World Cup qualifier training session, a team spokesman said. NLC is an umbrella of dozens of unions with tens of thousands of members, from civil servants and teachers to oil sector workers and transport employees.

Nigeria unions suspend nationwide strike to hold more wage talks

About 118 inmates escaped from a prison facility in Nigeria and the incident took place on Wednesday night according to a prison service spokesperson. Watch in for more details!

Suleja prison break: Over 118 prisoners escape from a facility near Nigerian capital

Nigeria's anti-corruption agency has recovered nearly $30 million in an investigation into alleged fraud at a Government Ministry. The ministry itself is responsible for tackling poverty, Watch in for more details!

Nigeria: Anti-graft agency recovers $28 million in corruption probe

Gunmen kidnapped at least 15 pupils from a school in Nigeria in a dawn raid on Saturday (Mar 9), days after about 300 children were abducted in another armed raid.

The gunmen forced their way into the school premises in the Sokoto village of Gidan Bakuso, in the country’s north-west, and started firing shots sporadically, waking and causing panic among the pupils, said the school’s owner, Liman Abubakar Bakuso.

“They succeeded in abducting 15 of my students, the oldest being 20 and 15, but all the others are below 13,” said Bakuso by phone, adding that a woman had also been kidnapped.

“We are in a state of panic and have been praying hard for their safe release,” he told Reuters.

Police did not respond to requests for comment.

Kidnappings at schools in Nigeria were first carried out by the jihadist group Boko Haram, which seized more than 200 students from a girls’ school in Chibok in Borno state a decade ago, causing global outrage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjq69vO3uiEAxU94zgGHWYwDxsQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-puts-focus-on-genocide-convention-over-imminent-threat-of-famine-in-gaza-697436" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-puts-focus-on-genocide-convention-over-imminent-threat-of-famine-in-gaza-697436&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq69vO3uiEAxU94zgGHWYwDxsQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over `imminent threat` of famine in Gaza</a>

But the tactic has since been adopted by criminal gangs without any ideological affiliation seeking ransom payments, authorities say.

Nigeria’s security forces are stretched fighting an Islamist insurgency in the north-east, leaving vast swathes of land unpoliced and armed gangs to roam freely.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjq69vO3uiEAxU94zgGHWYwDxsQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womens-day-2024-south-african-tourisms-neliswa-nkani-on-breaking-the-glass-ceiling-in-post-apartheid-era-697848" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/womens-day-2024-south-african-tourisms-neliswa-nkani-on-breaking-the-glass-ceiling-in-post-apartheid-era-697848&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq69vO3uiEAxU94zgGHWYwDxsQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Women`s Day 2024: The woman breaking the glass ceiling in post-apartheid South Africa</a>

In Kaduna, the state governor told the BBC at least 28 of the schoolchildren kidnapped earlier this week had managed to escape their captors.

Until Thursday’s abduction in Kaduna, Nigeria had witnessed a lull in mass kidnappings from schools since July 2021 when about 150 students were seized by armed men.

Gunmen kidnapped at least 15 pupils from a school in Nigeria in a dawn raid on Saturday (Mar 9), days after about 300 children were abducted in another armed raid.

Gunmen kidnapped at least 15 pupils from a school in Nigeria in a dawn raid on Saturday (Mar 9), days after about 300 children were abducted in another armed raid. The gunmen forced their way into the school premises in the Sokoto village of Gidan Bakuso, in the country’s north-west, and started firing shots sporadically, waking and causing panic among the pupils, said the school’s owner, Liman Abubakar Bakuso. “They succeeded in abducting 15 of my students, the oldest being 20 and 15, but all the others are below 13,” said Bakuso by phone, adding that a woman had also been kidnapped. “We are in a state of panic and have been praying hard for their safe release,” he told Reuters. Police did not respond to requests for comment. Kidnappings at schools in Nigeria were first carried out by the jihadist group Boko Haram, which seized more than 200 students from a girls’ school in Chibok in Borno state a decade ago, causing global outrage. Also read: South Africa puts focus on Genocide Convention over `imminent threat` of famine in Gaza But the tactic has since been adopted by criminal gangs without any ideological affiliation seeking ransom payments, authorities say. Nigeria’s security forces are stretched fighting an Islamist insurgency in the north-east, leaving vast swathes of land unpoliced and armed gangs to roam freely. Also read: Women`s Day 2024: The woman breaking the glass ceiling in post-apartheid South Africa In Kaduna, the state governor told the BBC at least 28 of the schoolchildren kidnapped earlier this week had managed to escape their captors. Until Thursday’s abduction in Kaduna, Nigeria had witnessed a lull in mass kidnappings from schools since July 2021 when about 150 students were seized by armed men.

Gunmen abduct 15 pupils from Nigeria school as search continues for 300 others

A nonprofit startup called archivi.ng (tag them on socials) is attempting to digitise every edition of every newspaper – 50 in all – published in nigeria since 1 january 1960, the year of independence from britain. The archive launched its first tranche of documents last september. Dozens of volunteers spent months scouring libraries and meeting with publishers to get copies of old papers.

Nigerian digitises old newspapers

At least 37 people lost their lives in Nigeria on Monday (Oct 2) in a blast at an illegal oil refinery in the country’s south, reported Reuters. A local community leader told the news agency that amongst the dead were two pregnant women.

"Thirty five people were caught in the fire. Two people who were lucky to escape also died this morning in hospital," Reuters quoted a witness as saying.

He added that the relatives had identified some of the victims and taken them for burial. &nbsp;

<h2>Oil refinery fire ignites nearby reservoir</h2>

Another report on the same incident by AFP pegged the death toll at 18. AFP reported that the fire took place after the illegal oil refinery fire ignited a nearby oil reservoir, leaving victims severely burnt.

“The fire outbreak started at a very late hour … 18 victims were burnt beyond recognition while 25 injured persons were rescued,” said Olufemi Ayodele, spokesman for the local Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Watch:&nbsp;Nigeria: Africa's biggest economy under threat

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-africas-biggest-economy-under-threat-640990/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Most of the victims were youths … a pregnant woman and a young lady getting ready for her marriage ceremony next month were all casualties,” he said.

<h2>Nigeria’s illegal oil refining problem</h2>

In the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria, illegal refining is a widespread issue, where impoverished locals tap into pipelines to produce fuel for profit. This dangerous practice can be as rudimentary as boiling crude oil in drums to extract fuel, often resulting in deadly consequences.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-protests-held-over-mysterious-death-of-afrobeat-star-mohbad-638516">Also read:&nbsp;Nigeria: Protests held over mysterious death of Afrobeat star MohBad</a>

Despite Nigeria being an OPEC member and one of Africa's major petroleum producers, efforts to combat illegal crude refineries have yielded little success over the years. This is partly due to the involvement of influential politicians and security officials, as noted by local environmental groups.

Theft of crude oil, vandalism of pipelines, and legal disputes regarding oil spills have prompted oil majors operating in Nigeria to divest from onshore and shallow water assets, opting to focus on deepwater operations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

At least 37 people lost their lives in Nigeria on Monday (Oct 2) in a blast at an illegal oil refinery in the country’s south, reported Reuters. A local community leader told the news agency that amongst the dead were two pregnant women.

At least 37 people lost their lives in Nigeria on Monday (Oct 2) in a blast at an illegal oil refinery in the country’s south, reported Reuters. A local community leader told the news agency that amongst the dead were two pregnant women. "Thirty five people were caught in the fire. Two people who were lucky to escape also died this morning in hospital," Reuters quoted a witness as saying. He added that the relatives had identified some of the victims and taken them for burial. Oil refinery fire ignites nearby reservoir Another report on the same incident by AFP pegged the death toll at 18. AFP reported that the fire took place after the illegal oil refinery fire ignited a nearby oil reservoir, leaving victims severely burnt. “The fire outbreak started at a very late hour … 18 victims were burnt beyond recognition while 25 injured persons were rescued,” said Olufemi Ayodele, spokesman for the local Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Watch: Nigeria: Africa's biggest economy under threat × “Most of the victims were youths … a pregnant woman and a young lady getting ready for her marriage ceremony next month were all casualties,” he said. Nigeria’s illegal oil refining problem In the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria, illegal refining is a widespread issue, where impoverished locals tap into pipelines to produce fuel for profit. This dangerous practice can be as rudimentary as boiling crude oil in drums to extract fuel, often resulting in deadly consequences. Also read: Nigeria: Protests held over mysterious death of Afrobeat star MohBad Despite Nigeria being an OPEC member and one of Africa's major petroleum producers, efforts to combat illegal crude refineries have yielded little success over the years. This is partly due to the involvement of influential politicians and security officials, as noted by local environmental groups. Theft of crude oil, vandalism of pipelines, and legal disputes regarding oil spills have prompted oil majors operating in Nigeria to divest from onshore and shallow water assets, opting to focus on deepwater operations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Nigeria: Blast at illegal oil refinery kills at least 37, including two pregnant women

The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) suspended several officials after thieves managed to steal the light system of one of the runways of the country’s busiest airport. The light system at the 2.7km long domestic runway of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) was installed in November last year. Light systems help aircraft land and take off during nighttime.

Meanwhile, the FAAN has also initiated an investigation into the matter and efforts are underway to “arrest the criminals [and] recover what's missing", according to a FAAN spokesperson.

It must be noted that the domestic runway at the international airport was closed for maintenance since March 13, capitalising on which the thieves made their move.

<h2>FAAN workers involved in theft?</h2>

Nigeria’s PUNCH newspaper quoted a source as saying that FAAN’s own officials were involved in the theft, who had exclusive access to the restricted areas at the airport.&nbsp;

“The regular incursion and stealing of safety components at the airports are carried out by a syndicate, consisting of some workers of the agencies, who have access to the restricted areas and accomplices from outside,” The PUNCH wrote quoting the unnamed source.

Watch:&nbsp;Chaos and panic buying at petrol pumps in Nigeria | Latest News

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chaos-and-panic-buying-at-petrol-pumps-in-nigeria-latest-news-599321/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, FAAN’s spokesperson Yakubu Funtua questioned the claim, adding that it would be unfair to put the blame on FAAN members. He said, “FAAN is doing all it can to get to the bottom of this. You are very aware that there are many agencies within the airport, including the different ones that are supposed to be taking care of security there. So, it would be unfair to put this (the theft) on our (members of) staff and I don’t think there is any FAAN (member of) staff that wants the agency to crash.”

<h2>Airport had waited 16 years for the light system</h2>

According to a report by ICIR news outlet, the domestic runway of the MMIA Lagos operated for almost 16 years without airfield lighting. However, in November 2022, FAAN reopened the runway for flight services after successfully installing the CAT III Airfield ground lighting system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-president-rides-in-convoy-of-100-cars-draws-flak-611501">Also read:&nbsp;Nigerian president rides in convoy of 100+ cars, draws flak</a>

Notably, the Lagos airport has experienced incidents of theft in the past as well. In December 2021, Arik Air reported an attempted robbery of its taxiing aircraft to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Unknown individuals encroached on the runway during the incident.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) suspended several officials after thieves managed to steal the light system of one of the runways of the country’s busiest airport.

The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) suspended several officials after thieves managed to steal the light system of one of the runways of the country’s busiest airport. The light system at the 2.7km long domestic runway of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) was installed in November last year. Light systems help aircraft land and take off during nighttime. Meanwhile, the FAAN has also initiated an investigation into the matter and efforts are underway to “arrest the criminals [and] recover what's missing", according to a FAAN spokesperson. It must be noted that the domestic runway at the international airport was closed for maintenance since March 13, capitalising on which the thieves made their move. FAAN workers involved in theft? Nigeria’s PUNCH newspaper quoted a source as saying that FAAN’s own officials were involved in the theft, who had exclusive access to the restricted areas at the airport. “The regular incursion and stealing of safety components at the airports are carried out by a syndicate, consisting of some workers of the agencies, who have access to the restricted areas and accomplices from outside,” The PUNCH wrote quoting the unnamed source. Watch: Chaos and panic buying at petrol pumps in Nigeria | Latest News × However, FAAN’s spokesperson Yakubu Funtua questioned the claim, adding that it would be unfair to put the blame on FAAN members. He said, “FAAN is doing all it can to get to the bottom of this. You are very aware that there are many agencies within the airport, including the different ones that are supposed to be taking care of security there. So, it would be unfair to put this (the theft) on our (members of) staff and I don’t think there is any FAAN (member of) staff that wants the agency to crash.” Airport had waited 16 years for the light system According to a report by ICIR news outlet, the domestic runway of the MMIA Lagos operated for almost 16 years without airfield lighting. However, in November 2022, FAAN reopened the runway for flight services after successfully installing the CAT III Airfield ground lighting system. Also read: Nigerian president rides in convoy of 100+ cars, draws flak Notably, the Lagos airport has experienced incidents of theft in the past as well. In December 2021, Arik Air reported an attempted robbery of its taxiing aircraft to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Unknown individuals encroached on the runway during the incident. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Thieves steal runway lights from Nigeria’s busiest airport months after installation

The day of Bola Tinubu's inauguration as Nigeria's 16th democratically elected president, Monday, May 29, has been designated a national holiday by the government of Nigeria. After being sworn in on May 29, Tinubu will succeed current President Muhammadu Buhari.

Bola Tinubu to be sworn-in as Nigeria's President, world leaders to attend the ceremony

Nigeria, a country that returned to democracy in 1999 is all set to witness general elections in a few weeks time. Nigerian have started queueing up outside the election office to collect their permanent voter cards. Watch this video to know more.

Nigeria gears up for 2023 general elections

Vehicles were left burnt out and fuel pooled on the ground in Nigeria's Imo state on Sunday (April 24) following an overnight explosion at an illegal oil refining depot.

Explosion at Nigerian illegal oil refinery kills over 100

Nigerian militant Islamist group c killed himself in a fight against rival jihadist fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

News Alert: Nigeria's Boko Haram leader is dead, say rival militants

Gunmen abducted scores of students from an Islamic seminary in Nigeria. Authorities said that nearly 200 students were present at the time of kidnapping. However, the number of students who were abducted is yet to be confirmed.

Why are school children being kidnapped in Nigeria?

Since December, criminal gangs known locally as bandits have increasingly targeted schools and colleges for kidnapping attacks, hoping to squeeze ransom payments out of the authorities.

University staffer killed, students kidnapped by Nigerian gunmen

One army officer was among the 11 armed forces personnel killed in an attack in Nigeria that was termed as unprovoked by a spokesperson on Thursday. The attack took place in Nigeria's Benue state.

The army said in a statement that it would "fish out and deal decisively with these bad elements."

Army spokesman Mohammed Yerima said the troops were initially declared missing while on a routine operational task, but a search-and-rescue team later found the bodies.

"Efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators of this heinous crime with a view to bringing them to justice," Yerima said in a statement.

Yerima did not immediately reply to further queries about the attack.

Reuters said that civilians were fleeing the Konshiba local government in fear soldiers looking to root out the perpetrators. A local leader's house had been burnt to ground.

The violence in the restive Middle Belt region marked the latest bout of instability in Nigeria, Africa's most-populous nation.

On Monday, heavily armed gunman freed more than 1,800 prisoners in the southeast, while armed gangs have kidnapped hundreds of school children in the northwest in recent months and Islamist militants in the northeast have waged a decade-long insurgency.

Troops patrol in the Middle Belt due in part to clashes between farmers and nomadic cattle herders that have killed thousands and displaced half a million over the past decade, according to estimates from French medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres.

(With Reuters inputs)

One army officer was among the 11 armed forces personnel killed in an attack in Nigeria that was termed as unprovoked by a spokesperson on Thursday. The attack took place in Nigeria's Benue state.

One army officer was among the 11 armed forces personnel killed in an attack in Nigeria that was termed as unprovoked by a spokesperson on Thursday. The attack took place in Nigeria's Benue state. The army said in a statement that it would "fish out and deal decisively with these bad elements." Army spokesman Mohammed Yerima said the troops were initially declared missing while on a routine operational task, but a search-and-rescue team later found the bodies. "Efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators of this heinous crime with a view to bringing them to justice," Yerima said in a statement. Yerima did not immediately reply to further queries about the attack. Reuters said that civilians were fleeing the Konshiba local government in fear soldiers looking to root out the perpetrators. A local leader's house had been burnt to ground. The violence in the restive Middle Belt region marked the latest bout of instability in Nigeria, Africa's most-populous nation. On Monday, heavily armed gunman freed more than 1,800 prisoners in the southeast, while armed gangs have kidnapped hundreds of school children in the northwest in recent months and Islamist militants in the northeast have waged a decade-long insurgency. Troops patrol in the Middle Belt due in part to clashes between farmers and nomadic cattle herders that have killed thousands and displaced half a million over the past decade, according to estimates from French medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres. (With Reuters inputs)

Eleven soldiers killed in attack in Nigeria

Kidnappers have released 53 people including women and children they seized on a bus in Nigeria, local authorities said, while dozens of others taken from a school in a separate incident are still missing.

Kidnappers in Nigeria release 53 including women and children seized on bus

Schools across the region were closed and surveillance aircraft were dispatched to scour the forest.

41 students still missing in Nigeria’s latest school kidnapping

Gunmen have kidnapped many school children in Kagara, Nigeria. Gunmen even stormed the school wearing the military uniform. According to the magistrate , the headcount is currently being conducted to get the exact number of children kidnapped.

Nigeria: Gunmen wearing military uniform stormed the school

nigeria-news

Nigeria News, News on Nigeria News, stories on Nigeria News, articles on Nigeria News, Nigeria News stories at Wion, Nigeria News news, Nigeria News latest news

nigeria news