The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) says it has seized over 6,000 national identity and voter cards from migrants in 21 border states. 3,823 identity cards and 2,393 voter cards unlawfully were possessed by migrants were intercepted and confiscated in about 23 states. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi explains.

NIS seizes 6,216 national IDs, PVCs from migrants

The National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has declared an emergency on bleaching after it said Nigeria tops cases of bleaching. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi explains.

Emergency declared on bleaching in Nigeria

Nigeria is observing mental health week. This year's theme is let's connect. Despite close family ties and communal living in Nigeria, mental health awareness is underrated in the country. The emotional care, especially for children and teenagers, is inadequate leading to a lack of positive thinking among the youth. Here's a report by WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi.

World of Africa: Nigeria observes mental health week

Just weeks ahead of the Presidential election in Nigeria, 13 of the 18 political parties have threatened to withdraw from the polls over the currency redesign policy and the controversy surrounding it.

Nigeria: Row over currency redesigning

On World of Africa, Erik Njoka takes you to: - Tanzanian govt accused of forcefully evicting the #Maasai at NgoroNgoro conservancy - House in Soweto turned into a Book centre - Leprosy patients find new hope in an Ivorian village - Role of the youth in #NigeriaDecides2023

World of Africa: Tanzanian govt accused of evicting the Maasai at NgoroNgoro conservancy

SpaceX’s Starlink is now live in Nigeria, according to the company. The Elon Musk-owned firm confirmed this in a tweet on Monday, stating that Nigeria was the first African country to enjoy its services. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi tells us more.

Elon Musk’s Starlink goes live in Nigeria

The National President of Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, Dr Innocent Orji has revealed that Nigeria has lost about 2800 resident doctors over a period of two years. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi explains more.

Brain drain: Nigeria lost 2,800 resident doctors in 2 years

In the last week of February, Africa's most populous country, Nigeria, will head to the polls to select their next president. Will any of the frontrunners, most of whom have been in the political system for decades, be able to turn the country around. Various factors may pose a challenge to the voting pattern in the West African nation.

World Of Africa: Youth's role in Nigeria Elections

The United Kingdom’s Department for Education, has effected some changes in the priority subjects for nationals pursuing relocation to the country via its Teaching Regulation Agency from next month. WION’s Loiusa Olaniyi explains.

Nigeria, Ghana and others affected as UK review teachers’ immigration policy

The deadstone in the bomb explosion that rocked a North Central Nigeria on Thursday now have risen to 50. Fulani cattle herders were in fact amongst those that were targeted in the deadly attack.

WION Dispatch: Explosion in Rukubi village of North Central Nigeria, at least 50 killed in blast

Lawyers representing Nigeria told London's High Court on Monday that the West African nation was the victim of "a campaign of bribery and deception" over a collapsed gas processing project. Nigeria's appeal against an $11 billion damages bill got underway.&nbsp;

The case is related to a contract for a gas project, which was given to a company called Process and Industrial Developments Limited (P&amp;ID) by Nigeria in 2010. However, the project just remained on paper and never broke ground.&nbsp;

The reasons behind the facility never getting materialised are disputed. The contract was inked by Nigerian government officials with Michael Quinn and his business partner Brendan Cahill. It was aimed at converting Nigeria's vast reserves of natural gas into power.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-calls-for-investigation-into-tax-affairs-of-nadhim-zahawi-555187">UK PM Sunak calls for investigation into tax affairs of Nadhim Zahawi</a>&nbsp;

Quinn and Cahill's offshore company P&amp;ID started arbitration proceedings against Nigeria for breach of contract in 2012, and in 2017 it was awarded $6.6 billion in damages for lost profits. News agency Reuters reported that with interest, that has now swelled to over $11 billion.&nbsp;

The lawyers representing Nigeria in the London court have claimed that bribes were paid to senior officials at its Ministry of Petroleum Resources so that P&amp;ID could get the contract&nbsp;in 2010.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Brazil pledges to protect Amazon&nbsp;

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The lawyers have also said that P&amp;ID bribed Nigeria's legal representatives when it took the nation to arbitration for breaching the contract. They claimed that the representatives didn't even defend the case properly.&nbsp;

Mark Howard, who is representing Nigeria, told London's High Court that P&amp;ID obtained its contract "by telling repeated lies and paying bribes to officials".&nbsp;

P&amp;ID allegedly paid bribes to "corrupted" Nigeria's lawyers to obtain confidential documents during the arbitration, Howard said at the start of an eight-week trial.&nbsp;

Howard also said that P&amp;ID paid bribes and relied on false evidence "to dupe (Nigeria), the tribunal and this court into giving P&amp;ID an extraordinary amount of money on the back of a campaign of bribery, corruption and deception".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in written submissions to the court, P&amp;ID denied that it paid bribes to get the contract.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Lawyers representing Nigeria told London's High Court on Monday that the West African nation was the victim of "a campaign of bribery and deception" over a collapsed gas processing project.

Lawyers representing Nigeria told London's High Court on Monday that the West African nation was the victim of "a campaign of bribery and deception" over a collapsed gas processing project. Nigeria's appeal against an $11 billion damages bill got underway. The case is related to a contract for a gas project, which was given to a company called Process and Industrial Developments Limited (P&ID) by Nigeria in 2010. However, the project just remained on paper and never broke ground. The reasons behind the facility never getting materialised are disputed. The contract was inked by Nigerian government officials with Michael Quinn and his business partner Brendan Cahill. It was aimed at converting Nigeria's vast reserves of natural gas into power. ALSO READ | UK PM Sunak calls for investigation into tax affairs of Nadhim Zahawi Quinn and Cahill's offshore company P&ID started arbitration proceedings against Nigeria for breach of contract in 2012, and in 2017 it was awarded $6.6 billion in damages for lost profits. News agency Reuters reported that with interest, that has now swelled to over $11 billion. The lawyers representing Nigeria in the London court have claimed that bribes were paid to senior officials at its Ministry of Petroleum Resources so that P&ID could get the contract in 2010. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Brazil pledges to protect Amazon × The lawyers have also said that P&ID bribed Nigeria's legal representatives when it took the nation to arbitration for breaching the contract. They claimed that the representatives didn't even defend the case properly. Mark Howard, who is representing Nigeria, told London's High Court that P&ID obtained its contract "by telling repeated lies and paying bribes to officials". P&ID allegedly paid bribes to "corrupted" Nigeria's lawyers to obtain confidential documents during the arbitration, Howard said at the start of an eight-week trial. Howard also said that P&ID paid bribes and relied on false evidence "to dupe (Nigeria), the tribunal and this court into giving P&ID an extraordinary amount of money on the back of a campaign of bribery, corruption and deception". Meanwhile, in written submissions to the court, P&ID denied that it paid bribes to get the contract. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nigeria's UK court bid starts to overturn $11 billion damages bill over failed gas project

The quest to leave Nigeria at all cost has made Nigerians resort to study visas even when the degree is not the target but the trend seems to be hitting a brick wall as the number of F1 visa denials to Nigerian applicants reaches a record high. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi explains.

F1 visa denial to Nigerian applicants on a record high

The countdown to one of Africa's most vibrant political event, has began. Nigerians will head to the ballot on the 25th of February to choose their next head-of-state. Political campaigns used to be organised largely by the politicians but in this election cycle a lot has changed.

World Of Africa: Nigeria's countdown to poll begins

90-year-old Johana Butuk married 40-year-old Alice Jemelil in the country of Uasin Gishu in Nigeria. The two dated for 20 years. WION’s Louisa Olaniyi tells you more.

90-year-old man marries 40-year old woman

In Africa's most populous country in Nigeria, a group of unidentified assailants set ablaze the residents of a Nigerian Catholic Priest in the Northwest region, burning one priest to death and shooting and injuring another who tried to escape.

Africa: Catholic priest burnt alive, five worshippers kidnapped in Nigeria

In Pics | Here are some countries with morality police. Take a look!

*Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descpriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced*

Police officers in Nigeria have been asked to look for and arrest a man who has not yet been identified but who was seen in a recent video sharing a substance with a newborn baby that was presumably cannabis.

In the&nbsp;video doing rounds, the man is seen smoking what looks like a wrap of cannabis&nbsp;and then forcing it into the mouth of the toddler&nbsp;he’s carrying.

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When and how did we get here as a society? 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 
Egbon, <a href="https://twitter.com/Princemoye1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Princemoye1</a> please we need this guy prosecuted and the accomplice too. 
Haba! Remember when Iya Kudu(a neighbor) will spank us for misdemeanor as kids but now the society is empty. Cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/ndlea_nigeria?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndlea_nigeria</a> <a href="https://t.co/TOU1LKwrdl">pic.twitter.com/TOU1LKwrdl</a>
— President Ikemba🇳🇬 (@IkeokwuChidozie) <a href="https://twitter.com/IkeokwuChidozie/status/1612699806337740806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-at-least-12-paramilitary-personnel-killed-in-ambush-at-a-mining-site-551673">Nigerians </a>outraged by the insane act responded on Twitter, tagging the Nigeria Police Force, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and other security organisations, and demanding the arrest of the man in the video.

As per Vanguard reports, many police commands throughout Nigeria&nbsp;have been instructed to deploy technology&nbsp;in order to track the man&nbsp;and prosecute him.

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*Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descpriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced* Police officers in Nigeria have been asked to look for and arrest a man who has not yet been identified but who was seen in a recent video sharing a substance with a newborn baby that was presumably cannabis.

*Trigger warning: Some readers might find the graphic descpriptions in this story disturbing. Discretion is adviced* Police officers in Nigeria have been asked to look for and arrest a man who has not yet been identified but who was seen in a recent video sharing a substance with a newborn baby that was presumably cannabis. In the video doing rounds, the man is seen smoking what looks like a wrap of cannabis and then forcing it into the mouth of the toddler he’s carrying. When and how did we get here as a society? 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Egbon, @Princemoye1 please we need this guy prosecuted and the accomplice too. Haba! Remember when Iya Kudu(a neighbor) will spank us for misdemeanor as kids but now the society is empty. Cc: @ndlea_nigeria pic.twitter.com/TOU1LKwrdl — President Ikemba🇳🇬 (@IkeokwuChidozie) January 10, 2023 × Nigerians outraged by the insane act responded on Twitter, tagging the Nigeria Police Force, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and other security organisations, and demanding the arrest of the man in the video. As per Vanguard reports, many police commands throughout Nigeria have been instructed to deploy technology in order to track the man and prosecute him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nigeria: Viral video shows man forcefully making toddler smoke; police launches inquiry

Twelve Paramilitary Personnel killed in gunmen attack at a mining site in north Nigeria. An investigation has been launched to view the incident. Watch further to know more.

Nigeria: At least 12 Paramilitary Personnel killed in ambush at a mining site

About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor. The attack is the latest in a series of militant disruptions into Nigerian life and lifelines, going on to pose a challenge for government ahead of February's scheduled presidential polls.

WION Dispatch | Nigeria Train Abduction: Kidnappers demand over $44,300 from the families

About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor. The attack is the latest in a series of militant disruptions into Nigerian life and lifelines, going on to pose a challenge for government ahead of February's scheduled presidential polls.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-gears-up-for-2023-general-elections-550577">Nigeria gears up for 2023 general elections</a>

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According to an official police statement, the abduction of 32 people took place after they were surrounded by AK-47 wielding terrorists at Tom Ikimi station. The passengers were reportedly awaiting a train to the oil hub of Warri in neighbouring Delta state.&nbsp;

Some people at the station were shot in the attack, police said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-7-dead-after-suspected-bandits-attack-train-in-northern-nigeria-sources-466653">At least 7 dead after suspected bandits attack train in northern Nigeria</a>

Edo state information commissioner Chris Osa Nehikhare said the kidnappers had taken 32 people, while one made a miraculous escape.

"At the moment, security personnel made up of the military and the police as well as men of the vigilante network and hunters are intensifying search and rescue operations in a reasonable radius to rescue the kidnap victims," Edo state information commissioner said.&nbsp; 
"We are confident that the other victims will be rescued in the coming hours."

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had closed the station until further notice. Abuja has called the kidnappings "utterly barbaric".

The Nigerian Railway Corporation last month reopened a rail service linking the capital Abuja with northern Kaduna state, months after its tracks were blown up, killing six people and kidnapping dozens of passengers in the subsequent commotion.

Nigeria’s security situation remains a key issue ahead of Nigeria's general elections in February. The February presidential polls will determine the fate of the successor of President Mohammed Buhari.&nbsp;

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About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor.

About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor. The attack is the latest in a series of militant disruptions into Nigerian life and lifelines, going on to pose a challenge for government ahead of February's scheduled presidential polls. ALSO WATCH | Nigeria gears up for 2023 general elections × According to an official police statement, the abduction of 32 people took place after they were surrounded by AK-47 wielding terrorists at Tom Ikimi station. The passengers were reportedly awaiting a train to the oil hub of Warri in neighbouring Delta state. Some people at the station were shot in the attack, police said. ALSO READ | At least 7 dead after suspected bandits attack train in northern Nigeria Edo state information commissioner Chris Osa Nehikhare said the kidnappers had taken 32 people, while one made a miraculous escape. "At the moment, security personnel made up of the military and the police as well as men of the vigilante network and hunters are intensifying search and rescue operations in a reasonable radius to rescue the kidnap victims," Edo state information commissioner said. "We are confident that the other victims will be rescued in the coming hours." The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had closed the station until further notice. Abuja has called the kidnappings "utterly barbaric". The Nigerian Railway Corporation last month reopened a rail service linking the capital Abuja with northern Kaduna state, months after its tracks were blown up, killing six people and kidnapping dozens of passengers in the subsequent commotion. Nigeria’s security situation remains a key issue ahead of Nigeria's general elections in February. The February presidential polls will determine the fate of the successor of President Mohammed Buhari. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 30 abducted in Nigeria after armed attack on train station

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

Nigeria, a country that returned to democracy in 1999 is all set to witness general elections in a few weeks time but a large number of citizens are yet to collect their permanent voter cards.

Nigeria: Residents not collecting their permanent voter cards

As the 2023 general election in Nigeria draws closer, the nation’s social media space is a buzz with various campaigns of the political parties. But will it really make an impact on the upcoming polls, if yes, then to what extent? WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi finds out.

World of Africa: How will social media impact polls in Nigeria?

Dancers and musicians took part in a carnival in Lagos, Nigeria. Called Fanti carnival, the event is a yearly tradition usually held on the first day of the year and was inspired by former migrants who returned from brazil to Lagos in the 19th century.

World of Africa: Nigerians kick-start 2023 with a colourful carnival

There has been a significant rise in the number of school dropouts in nigeria in the recent years. The number of those children who are denied access to education for no fault of theirs, keeps swelling each year. According to child rights activists and experts, this is worrisome, as these kids might end up in recruiting pools for terror outfits like the boko haram Here’s a report from lagos by our correspondent louisa olaniyi, on what’s preventing these kids from accessing basic education and the potential risks they face in the light of poverty and lack of education.

World of Africa: Nigeria's alarming school drop-out rate

Gunmen have killed at least 38 villagers in northwestern Nigeria's Kaduna state, a region chronically marred by armed violence. Gangs of armed men have attacked hundreds of local communities across northwestern Nigeria in recent years.

Gunmen kill at least 38 villagers in northern Nigeria's Kaduna state

Over a hundred stolen Benin bronzes will be sent back to Nigeria by the University of Cambridge. The artefacts, most of which are made of brass but also contain some items made of ivory and wood, were looted&nbsp;by British troops during the siege of Benin City in 1897.

"The Charity Commission has considered and approved the return of 116 historical items, also known as the Benin bronzes, from the University of Cambridge's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology to the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM) of Nigeria, according to a university spokesperson.

“The university is now working with the commission to finalise the next steps regarding these Benin bronzes, and we will communicate these in due course.”

She added that some artefacts would remain in Cambridge “on extended loan” to ensure “this west African civilisation continues to be represented in the museum’s displays, and in teaching for school groups”.

She explained: “Those that return physically will be transferred to the National Commission for&nbsp;Museums&nbsp;and Monuments, as is required legally by the Republic of Nigeria, and an approach formally supported by the Oba of Benin.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rules-about-liquids-in-planes-to-be-relaxed-from-2024-543130">UK: Rules about liquids in planes to be relaxed from 2024</a>

During the invasion in 1897, the British set fire to the city's palace and banished the monarch or oba of Benin.

The "Benin bronzes"—a collective term for thousands of brasses and other pieces—were stolen, and the expense of the armed operation was eventually recouped through sales in London, as reported by the Guardian.

Claims for the return of the artefacts date back to the middle of the 20th century, but they are now spread out throughout the globe in museums in the UK, Europe, and the US.

The move by Cambridge comes as a&nbsp;demand to restore stolen artefacts to institutions and museums grows. Germany returned two bronze statues to Nigeria in July along with more than a thousand other artefacts from its museum holdings.

A few months later, in October, the Smithsonian Institution gave ownership of 29 Benin bronzes back to Nigeria. Lai Mohammed, the Nigerian cultural minister, encouraged the British Museum to do the same.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson earns over £1 million giving speeches since quitting

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The British Museum's George Osborne was said to have discussed the possibility of returning the Parthenon marbles to Greece with Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the country's prime minister, earlier this month.

Downing Street, however, has stated that there are no intentions to alter the legislation that forbids the British Museum from returning the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

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Over a hundred stolen Benin bronzes will be sent back to Nigeria by the University of Cambridge. The artefacts, most of which are made of brass but also contain some items made of ivory and wood, were looted by British troops during the siege of Benin City in 1897.

Over a hundred stolen Benin bronzes will be sent back to Nigeria by the University of Cambridge. The artefacts, most of which are made of brass but also contain some items made of ivory and wood, were looted by British troops during the siege of Benin City in 1897. "The Charity Commission has considered and approved the return of 116 historical items, also known as the Benin bronzes, from the University of Cambridge's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology to the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM) of Nigeria, according to a university spokesperson. “The university is now working with the commission to finalise the next steps regarding these Benin bronzes, and we will communicate these in due course.” She added that some artefacts would remain in Cambridge “on extended loan” to ensure “this west African civilisation continues to be represented in the museum’s displays, and in teaching for school groups”. She explained: “Those that return physically will be transferred to the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, as is required legally by the Republic of Nigeria, and an approach formally supported by the Oba of Benin.” Also read | UK: Rules about liquids in planes to be relaxed from 2024 During the invasion in 1897, the British set fire to the city's palace and banished the monarch or oba of Benin. The "Benin bronzes"—a collective term for thousands of brasses and other pieces—were stolen, and the expense of the armed operation was eventually recouped through sales in London, as reported by the Guardian. Claims for the return of the artefacts date back to the middle of the 20th century, but they are now spread out throughout the globe in museums in the UK, Europe, and the US. The move by Cambridge comes as a demand to restore stolen artefacts to institutions and museums grows. Germany returned two bronze statues to Nigeria in July along with more than a thousand other artefacts from its museum holdings. A few months later, in October, the Smithsonian Institution gave ownership of 29 Benin bronzes back to Nigeria. Lai Mohammed, the Nigerian cultural minister, encouraged the British Museum to do the same. Also watch | Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson earns over £1 million giving speeches since quitting The British Museum's George Osborne was said to have discussed the possibility of returning the Parthenon marbles to Greece with Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the country's prime minister, earlier this month. Downing Street, however, has stated that there are no intentions to alter the legislation that forbids the British Museum from returning the Parthenon Marbles to Greece. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cambridge University to return over 100 Benin Bronzes looted in 1897 to Nigeria

The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed.

The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations.

Reportedly, parents of the said children or other civilian witnesses were also slaughtered.

Watch |&nbsp;World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level&nbsp;

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The children were "deleted" on army commander orders, which were based on the belief that these children were collaborating with militants in Boko Haram or its Islamic State offshoot or have "tainted" blood of insurgent fathers that would one day mould them into terrorists.

Some soldiers also said that it was a kill-or-be-killed situation, as children were used by insurgents as fighters, suicide bombers and informants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/since-2009-a-nigerian-army-run-forced-abortion-programme-has-terminated-10000-pregnancies-report-541152">Since 2009, a Nigerian army run forced abortion programme has terminated 10,000 pregnancies: Report</a>

“This is something that everyone knows. It’s not just our commanders, most other people say the same, and they heard it from the mouths of our soldiers, saying that if we let them grow up, if they’re born and they grow up, it will be with that ideology, Boko Haram’s ideology. Because their parents are Boko Haram, it’s too late and the blood has already reacted in their bodies, they will grow up that way. That’s why whoever asks them, they will say that’s why they kill,” said one soldier while talking to the news agency.

Witness reports suggest that intentional killings of children "have occurred with a blurring frequency across the region" ever since the war began 13 years back.

While the report fails to coin a set number, Reuters estimates that around 60 children were killed in just six incidents, with the most recent one in February 2021. Most of them were shot in the back as they were fleeing.

Nigerian military leaders have refuted the claims and said that the army has never targeted children. They allege that the report is part of foreign efforts to undermine the nation and its fight against insurgents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-tiktok-users-in-nigeria-fined-and-sentenced-to-whipping-for-mocking-govt-official-532026">2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official</a>

"Not in Nigeria, not in Nigeria. We’re cultural. We’re communal here. So everybody respects life. We respect families. We respect women and children. We respect every living soul," said Major General Christopher Musa, who heads the counterinsurgency campaign in the northeast.

The intentional, systematic killing of civilians during an armed conflict as per international human rights law is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Another recent Reuters report claims that the army also undertook the forced abortion of around 10,000 women since 2009.

The United States has reacted to the report with shock and said it was "deeply troubled".

In an email, to Reuters a State Department spokesperson said that the country was "pursuing further information".

Meanwhile, Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to immediately investigate the claims and said "The killing of children on the presumption that they were, or would become, terrorists, is a war crime which violates international laws."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed. The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations.

The Nigerian army allegedly massacred children in its ongoing war efforts against the Islamic insurgents in the country's northeast, a Reuters report claimed. The report cites more than 40 sources, including soldiers and civilians who claim to have witnessed the military killing children or to have seen corpses of children in the aftermath of army operations. Reportedly, parents of the said children or other civilian witnesses were also slaughtered. Watch | World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level The children were "deleted" on army commander orders, which were based on the belief that these children were collaborating with militants in Boko Haram or its Islamic State offshoot or have "tainted" blood of insurgent fathers that would one day mould them into terrorists. Some soldiers also said that it was a kill-or-be-killed situation, as children were used by insurgents as fighters, suicide bombers and informants. Also read | Since 2009, a Nigerian army run forced abortion programme has terminated 10,000 pregnancies: Report “This is something that everyone knows. It’s not just our commanders, most other people say the same, and they heard it from the mouths of our soldiers, saying that if we let them grow up, if they’re born and they grow up, it will be with that ideology, Boko Haram’s ideology. Because their parents are Boko Haram, it’s too late and the blood has already reacted in their bodies, they will grow up that way. That’s why whoever asks them, they will say that’s why they kill,” said one soldier while talking to the news agency. Witness reports suggest that intentional killings of children "have occurred with a blurring frequency across the region" ever since the war began 13 years back. While the report fails to coin a set number, Reuters estimates that around 60 children were killed in just six incidents, with the most recent one in February 2021. Most of them were shot in the back as they were fleeing. Nigerian military leaders have refuted the claims and said that the army has never targeted children. They allege that the report is part of foreign efforts to undermine the nation and its fight against insurgents. Also read | 2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official "Not in Nigeria, not in Nigeria. We’re cultural. We’re communal here. So everybody respects life. We respect families. We respect women and children. We respect every living soul," said Major General Christopher Musa, who heads the counterinsurgency campaign in the northeast. The intentional, systematic killing of civilians during an armed conflict as per international human rights law is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Another recent Reuters report claims that the army also undertook the forced abortion of around 10,000 women since 2009. The United States has reacted to the report with shock and said it was "deeply troubled". In an email, to Reuters a State Department spokesperson said that the country was "pursuing further information". Meanwhile, Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to immediately investigate the claims and said "The killing of children on the presumption that they were, or would become, terrorists, is a war crime which violates international laws." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nigerian army participated in systematic, intentional killing of children during war: Report

Reports say the Nigerian military has been running a secret mass abortion programme for women raped by the Boko Haram insurgents. Abortions are conducted without the consent of the women. For how long will women's bodies be politicised? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Nigerian military's secret abortion programme

For the last nine years, the Nigerian Army has allegedly run a "secret, systematic and illegal" abortion programme in the country's northeast. A report claims that the army forcefully terminated close to 10,000 pregnancies.

The Reuters investigation alleges that many of the women, and girls involved in this abortion programme were victims of rape and kidnapping at the hands of Islamic militants.

Most of these abortions were performed without the pregnant woman or girl's consent, many of which were as young as 12 years. Pregnancies ranging from two weeks to eight months were terminated.

Watch |&nbsp;World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level&nbsp;

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The campaign relied on deception and physical force against women who were kept in military custody for days or weeks. Three soldiers and a guard said they commonly assured women, who often were debilitated from captivity in the bush, that the pills and injections given to them were to restore their health and fight diseases such as malaria.

In some instances, women who resisted were beaten, caned, held at gunpoint or drugged into compliance. Others were tied or pinned down, as abortion drugs were inserted inside them, said a guard and a health worker.

The campaign included intimidation and physical force against women who were detained by the military for days or weeks.&nbsp;

Women who resisted were "beaten, caned, held at gunpoint or drugged into compliance. Others were tied or pinned down, as abortion drugs were inserted inside them," said the report citing a guard and a health worker.

As per the report, central to this programme is the idea that the offspring of rebels are predestined by the blood in their veins to one day take up guns against the Nigerian government and society.&nbsp;

The alleged abortion programme is believed to have been in place since at least 2013, and procedures were carried out up to at least November of last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-tiktok-users-in-nigeria-fined-and-sentenced-to-whipping-for-mocking-govt-official-532026">2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official</a>

According to eyewitness statements and records examined by Reuters, the procedures have taken place in at least five military facilities and five civilian hospitals in the area. Maiduguri, the largest city in northeastern Nigeria and the nerve centre of the government's fight against Islamist radicals, was allegedly the scene of many of these abortions.

Quoting sources the report claims that the programme is secret and is occasionally kept a secret from coworkers in the same hospital.&nbsp;

In an interview with Reuters, the Nigerian military vehemently denied ever having such a programme. They asserted that the report was a part of an international plot to jeopardise the nation's campaign against militant groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-gunmen-open-fire-in-mosque-killing-at-least-12-people-abduct-several-people-539980">Nigeria: Gunmen open fire in mosque, killing at least 12 people, abduct several others</a>

"It has never happened, it is not happening, it will not happen. It is not in our character. We are highly professional. We are human beings, and these are Nigerians that you have been talking about," Major General Christopher Musa, who is in charge of the military's counterinsurgency effort in the northeast, remarked during an interview in November.

Amnesty International took to Twitter and said that it was "deeply concerned by the findings" of the investigative report. The human rights organisation has called on the Nigerian authorities to investigate and take action.

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Amnesty International is deeply concerned by the findings of an investigative report by Reuters news agency, which reveals that the Nigerian army has carried out secret, systematic and forced abortions terminating at least 10,000 pregnancies of women and girls.
— Amnesty International Nigeria (@AmnestyNigeria) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmnestyNigeria/status/1600620703262318615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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US State Department spokesperson Ned Price on Wednesday called the report "harrowing" and said that his country is seeking further information.

"My reaction to it in the first instance was a personal one in that I read it and was deeply disturbed by it," he said. "It was a harrowing report. ... It's a concerning report and for that reason we are seeking further information."

For the last nine years, the Nigerian Army has allegedly run a "secret, systematic and illegal" abortion programme in the country's northeast. A report claims that the army forcefully terminated close to 10,000 pregnancies.

For the last nine years, the Nigerian Army has allegedly run a "secret, systematic and illegal" abortion programme in the country's northeast. A report claims that the army forcefully terminated close to 10,000 pregnancies. The Reuters investigation alleges that many of the women, and girls involved in this abortion programme were victims of rape and kidnapping at the hands of Islamic militants. Most of these abortions were performed without the pregnant woman or girl's consent, many of which were as young as 12 years. Pregnancies ranging from two weeks to eight months were terminated. Watch | World of Africa: Nigeria's 'serious' Hunger level The campaign relied on deception and physical force against women who were kept in military custody for days or weeks. Three soldiers and a guard said they commonly assured women, who often were debilitated from captivity in the bush, that the pills and injections given to them were to restore their health and fight diseases such as malaria. In some instances, women who resisted were beaten, caned, held at gunpoint or drugged into compliance. Others were tied or pinned down, as abortion drugs were inserted inside them, said a guard and a health worker. The campaign included intimidation and physical force against women who were detained by the military for days or weeks. Women who resisted were "beaten, caned, held at gunpoint or drugged into compliance. Others were tied or pinned down, as abortion drugs were inserted inside them," said the report citing a guard and a health worker. As per the report, central to this programme is the idea that the offspring of rebels are predestined by the blood in their veins to one day take up guns against the Nigerian government and society. The alleged abortion programme is believed to have been in place since at least 2013, and procedures were carried out up to at least November of last year. Also read | 2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official According to eyewitness statements and records examined by Reuters, the procedures have taken place in at least five military facilities and five civilian hospitals in the area. Maiduguri, the largest city in northeastern Nigeria and the nerve centre of the government's fight against Islamist radicals, was allegedly the scene of many of these abortions. Quoting sources the report claims that the programme is secret and is occasionally kept a secret from coworkers in the same hospital. In an interview with Reuters, the Nigerian military vehemently denied ever having such a programme. They asserted that the report was a part of an international plot to jeopardise the nation's campaign against militant groups. Also read | Nigeria: Gunmen open fire in mosque, killing at least 12 people, abduct several others "It has never happened, it is not happening, it will not happen. It is not in our character. We are highly professional. We are human beings, and these are Nigerians that you have been talking about," Major General Christopher Musa, who is in charge of the military's counterinsurgency effort in the northeast, remarked during an interview in November. Amnesty International took to Twitter and said that it was "deeply concerned by the findings" of the investigative report. The human rights organisation has called on the Nigerian authorities to investigate and take action. Amnesty International is deeply concerned by the findings of an investigative report by Reuters news agency, which reveals that the Nigerian army has carried out secret, systematic and forced abortions terminating at least 10,000 pregnancies of women and girls. — Amnesty International Nigeria (@AmnestyNigeria) December 7, 2022 × US State Department spokesperson Ned Price on Wednesday called the report "harrowing" and said that his country is seeking further information. "My reaction to it in the first instance was a personal one in that I read it and was deeply disturbed by it," he said. "It was a harrowing report. ... It's a concerning report and for that reason we are seeking further information."

Since 2009, a Nigerian army run forced abortion programme has terminated 10,000 pregnancies: Report

Nigerians are no strangers to fuel scarcity. It has almost become a ritual. At least once a year, they endure long queues at filling stations or buy at higher prices at black markets. And in December, people spend a sizeable portion of their holiday hustling for fuel at filling stations. What's causing the fuel crisis in Nigeria? Louisa Olaniyi explains.

World of Africa: Nigeria's fuel crisis worsens

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