Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service

Anambra Police Step Up Security to Calm Kingship Dispute

Nigeria

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March 20, 2026

Anambra Police Step Up Security to Calm Kingship Dispute

The Anambra State Police Command has raised the alarm over rising tensions in Awka following reactions trailing the report of the Panel of Enquiry on the disputed traditional stool.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the command warned that emerging narratives could threaten public peace.

The Command had observed a concerning pattern of comments and narratives capable of escalating into unrest if not properly managed.

“As part of proactive measures, the Command has placed operatives of the Anti-Cult Unit and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awka Sector, on red alert to swiftly respond to any potential breakdown of law and order,” he stated.

The PPRO, further disclosed that Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across the state, particularly within Awka, have intensified surveillance operations, intelligence gathering, and visibility patrols to deter any security breaches.

According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, urged residents, stakeholders, and interest groups to exercise caution and restraint.

It warned against inflammatory statements or actions that could incite violence.

The statement maintained that the Command would not hesitate to enforce the law against individuals or groups found engaging in acts capable of disrupting public peace.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens,” the statement read, assuring residents of sustained vigilance amid the unfolding situation.

The development comes amid heightened public interest and mixed reactions surrounding the outcome of the inquiry into the Awka traditional stool.

The matter has continued to generate debate across the state especially since the Panel of Inquiry set up by the Governor submitted his report earlier in the week and shortly after the Governor sought the IGP’s collaboration in stemming the breaches in State Security.

The panel chaired a former Chief Judge of the state, Justice Paul Obidigwe, found that Chief Gibson Nwosu (Eze Uzu II) was not lawfully dethroned as there was no valid legal grounds for his removal.

The panel noted that he was denied fair hearing, violating due process declaring his purported dethronement unlawful, invalid, and of no effect.

The report conversely faulted Austin Ndigwe’s emergence insisting that he was not properly selected, did not follow statutory and traditional procedures and is therefore illegitimately occupying the stool.

Drone Warfare Forces Shift in Global Military Strategy

Nigeria

Peace Piak Kanu

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March 20, 2026

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Drone Warfare Forces Shift in Global Military Strategy

Modern warfare has shifted as the convergence of low-cost drones and advanced missile systems compels militaries to rethink operational and economic models, with cost, scale and integration emerging as defining factors.

The assessment has emerged from a March 19 virtual defence briefing hosted by the Centre for European Policy Analysis, where experts examined lessons from tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

A former senior NATO defence investment official and Senior Fellow at CEPA, Gordon “Skip” Davis Jr., said modern conflict is moving toward “precision at scale,” combining high-end missile systems with large volumes of inexpensive, expendable drones to generate layered battlefield pressure.

He warned that the model allows less advanced actors to impose operational stress and financial strain on modern militaries, as costly air defence interceptors are increasingly deployed against low-cost aerial threats, raising concerns over sustainability in prolonged conflicts.

A Defence Technology Policy Specialist and former U.S. National Security Council official, Jason Israel, identified interoperability gaps as a critical weakness, noting that the absence of unified software and integrated command-and-control systems limits the effectiveness of large-scale drone operations, particularly within alliance frameworks.

Transatlantic defence analyst Federico Borsari said technological capability alone is insufficient, stressing that effectiveness depends on the alignment of technology, tactics and training within a coherent operational doctrine.

The briefing also highlighted an expanded battlespace, with civilian infrastructure, including energy, transport and communications systems, becoming increasingly integrated into military targeting considerations.

Experts noted that the proliferation of low-cost drone technologies is lowering barriers to entry for both state and non-state actors, increasing exposure for regions with limited air defence capacity and weak system integration.

The session concluded that strategic advantage is shifting from platform dominance to system resilience, with the ability to scale production, integrate technologies and sustain operations under cost pressure emerging as the new benchmark for modern militaries.

Muslims Mark Eid-ul-Fitr In Style, Colour, Joy

Entertainment/Tourism

Felicia Koko

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March 20, 2026

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Muslims Mark Eid-ul-Fitr In Style, Colour, Joy

From prayer grounds to lively street corners, celebrations took centre stage on Friday as Muslims marked the end of Ramadan with colour, food and shared moments of joy.

According to reports, the Oriwu Central Mosque in Ikorodu, Lagos opened on a solemn note with prayers to mark Eid-ul-Fitr.

It quickly unfolded into a vibrant social scene as Muslim faithfuls exchanged greetings and eased into the festive rhythm.

READ ALSO: VON Felicitates Muslims on Eid

Children in bright, newly-tailored outfits chased one another across prayer grounds, while families posed for photos and made plans for the day.

Around them, food vendors set up early, filling the air with the aroma of local delicacies as Muslim faithful leaned fully into the recreational side of Eid.

An Imam, Abdulazeez Bello, noted that the true significance of the day goes beyond the outward celebration.

“It is a moment of thanksgiving and spiritual fulfilment,” he said.

Similarly, another cleric, Imam Oyeniyi Ridwan, highlighted the social significance of the celebration, especially in a city as dynamic as Lagos.

“It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and generosity,” he said.

The message resonated as groups shared meals, gave to those in need and moved in clusters toward homes, eateries and relaxation spots across Ikorodu.

President Tinubu Urges Citizen Vigilance to Safeguard Peace

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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March 20, 2026

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President Tinubu Urges Citizen Vigilance to Safeguard Peace

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to take collective responsibility for safeguarding the nation’s peace and security, emphasising that sustaining stability is not the duty of government alone.

The President also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements across the country, stressing that national security requires the active participation of all.

President Tinubu who spoke to reporters after the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Dodan Barrack, said the bedrock of development lies in peaceful and harmonious coexistence.

“I pray for peace in the country. The stability, peace and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved. Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too.”

The Nigerian Leader highlighted the task of nation-building is collective, inclusive and shared by all Nigerians, urging more emphasis on the beauty of diversity and the unity of the country.

President Tinubu further urged that the spiritual emphasis on charity and kindness to others should go beyond the fasting period.

“We give thanks to God for guiding us through the month of Ramadan. We have accepted the principles, philosophy and doctrine of giving, peace, security and love of our nation, and of neighbours, and kindness to all humanity in any way we can.

“We should assist the needy and help the vulnerable. That is the teaching. May God accept our sacrifices.

“We must continue not because Ramadan has come and it’s over. We thank almighty God for giving us that month. But the teaching must continue even after Ramadan. We must continue to be our brother’s keeper. Good behaviour, good neighbours, and love for humanity.”

President Tinubu noted that the focus of all religions in the country remains the worship of one God, and that the character of citizens must reflect deep spiritual values drawn from prayers, the study of the holy scriptures, meditation, and penitence.

Reflecting on his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, President Tinubu said the reception by King Charles III and Queen Camilla underscored Nigeria’s growing relevance in the global economy.

According to him, the visit also highlighted the importance of tolerance and mutual respect among different faiths and cultures.

Also speaking, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, assured that the state government would continue to pray for peace and the well-being of all Nigerians, while commending the President for his sustained support to the state.

In his sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, urged Muslims to uphold the virtues of piety, discipline, and brotherhood, noting that the current global climate calls for calmness, wisdom, and unity.

The Eid prayers were attended by top government officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, alongside family members and associates.

Eid-ul-Fitr: VP Shettima, Others Observe Prayers in Maiduguri

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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March 20, 2026

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Eid-ul-Fitr: VP Shettima, Others Observe Prayers in Maiduguri

Vice President, Kashim Shettima on Friday joined other Muslim faithful to observe the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at Ramat Square in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

Thousands of worshippers turned out in a remarkable show of faith and unity for the Eid prayers at the expansive ground filled to capacity.

The prayers, led by the Chief Imam of Borno State, Shettima Saleh, drew an impressive array of dignitaries, including Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Ali Ndume and Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, alongside other prominent sons and daughters of the state.

Speaking to Journalists after the prayers, Vice President Shettima expressed optimism that insecurity across the country would soon be contained through the proactive measures deployed by both the federal and state governments.

He called for unity among Nigerians, noting that the convergence of Ramadan and Lent offered a powerful moment for reflection.

Collaboration

According to VP Shettima, national progress is inseparable from peace, stressing that Nigerians must come together to confront shared challenges such as insecurity and underdevelopment.

He also commended the people and leaders of Borno State for their resilience and unwavering commitment to peace, harmony, and progress.

Earlier in his sermon, the Chief Imam urged Muslim faithful to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan, comprising discipline, sacrifice, and devotion into their daily lives beyond the holy month.

He emphasised the need for continued piety, compassion, and social responsibility as essential tools for building a peaceful and cohesive society.

Anambra Governor Urges Unity, Religious Tolerance

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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March 20, 2026

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Anambra Governor Urges Unity, Religious Tolerance

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Anambra and across Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

He urged citizens of all faiths to embrace unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence as pillars for national progress.

In a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, the Governor congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, which he described as a period of deep spiritual reflection, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to God.

He commended the Muslim community for their resilience, discipline, and endurance throughout the 30-day fast, noting that such virtues are not only central to Islamic teachings but are also essential in building a just, compassionate, and morally grounded society.

Governor Soludo highlighted that the values of patience, charity, humility, and self-denial cultivated during Ramadan transcend religious boundaries and serve as universal principles capable of strengthening social cohesion and fostering harmony among diverse communities.

He called on Muslims to sustain the spirit of devotion and goodwill beyond the festive season, encouraging continued prayers and collective efforts toward peace, unity, and sustainable development in Anambra State and Nigeria at large.

In a broader appeal to all Nigerians, regardless of religious or ethnic background, the governor emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding, stressing that the nation’s strength lies in its diversity.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness and the promotion of interfaith dialogue as a pathway to enduring peace.

“At a time when the world is faced with divisions and uncertainty, we must draw from the lessons of Ramadan to build bridges of trust, compassion, and solidarity across faiths,” the statement read in part.

Governor Soludo further pledged to continue advancing policies that uphold religious freedom and ensure that every citizen, irrespective of belief can live, work, and thrive in an atmosphere of dignity and security.

He wished all Muslim faithful a joyful and blessed Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, expressing hope that the season would inspire renewed commitment to peace, love, and national unity.

VON Felicitates Muslims on Eid

Peace Piak Kanu

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March 20, 2026

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The Voice of Nigeria (VON) has extended warm greetings to Muslims in the country and across the globe as they celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan fast.

VON’s Director General, Jibrin Baba Ndace, conveyed the message on behalf of the management and staff, describing the occasion as a period of reflection, sacrifice, and compassion.

He urged Muslims to sustain the values of peace, unity, and goodwill imbibed during the holy month, stressing their importance in strengthening national cohesion.

“As we come together to celebrate, let us remember and uphold the values of peace, unity, and goodwill that bind us all,” the VON Director General stated.

Ndace also expressed hope that the celebration would bring happiness, prosperity, and renewed strength to Nigerians and the global Muslim community.

“May this Eid bring you and your loved ones happiness, prosperity, and renewed strength,” he added.

The Director General therefore, called for continued collective efforts toward fostering understanding, harmony, and meaningful contributions to national development.

The message comes as Muslims worldwide mark Eid-ul-Fitr, signalling the successful completion of Ramadan.

UK Trip Aims to Attract Foreign Investment – Presidency

Peace Piak Kanu

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March 20, 2026

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UK Trip Aims to Attract Foreign Investment – Presidency

The Presidency has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the United Kingdom is aimed at attracting investment, creating jobs, and expanding economic opportunities for Nigerians.

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said in a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle that the trip was part of efforts to reposition Nigeria on the global stage

Bwala added that Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable growth and development by remaining inward-looking.

“Some people are saying, ‘Why go to the UK?’ Look, I hope you all know that you don’t grow and develop Nigeria by sitting at home and waiting,” he said.

Bwala explained that the visit was designed to open doors to increased economic engagement, noting that it would lead to more inflows of investment and job creation for Nigerians.

“This visit is about opening doors: more investment, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people,” he added.

He further disclosed that the visit had strengthened Nigeria’s relationship with the United Kingdom, particularly due to King Charles III’s commitment to partner with Nigeria in areas of mutual interest.

“His Majesty, King Charles, has shown practicable commitment to partner with Nigeria on areas of mutual trust,” Bwala stated.

The presidential aide also said President Tinubu’s engagements abroad were part of efforts to reposition Nigeria on the global stage.

“President Tinubu is making sure Nigeria is seen, heard, and respected on the world stage. That’s how you move a country forward, not by staying quiet,” he said.

The Presidency maintained that international engagements such as the UK visit are critical to advancing Nigeria’s economic and diplomatic interests.

Cuba Rules Out Talks on President’s Tenure

World

Omowumi Samuel

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March 20, 2026

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Cuba Rules Out Talks on President’s Tenure

Cuba’s Vice Foreign Minister, Carlos Fernandez de Cossio said on Friday that neither Cuba’s political system nor the ‌term of President Miguel Diaz-Canel were subject to negotiation in talks with the United States.

“I can categorically confirm that … the political system of Cuba is not up ⁠for negotiation, and of course neither the president nor the position of any official in Cuba is subject to negotiation with the United States,” Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio revealed during a press conference.

Cuba acknowledged a week ago that it had entered talks ‌with ⁠the U.S. government as an oil blockade imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump pushes the Communist-run nation deeper into economic crisis.

According to reports, the Trump administration was seeking to ⁠push Diaz-Canel from power with two years remaining on his term as president and ⁠five years left as leader of the Communist Party.

Reuters

Kwara Muslims Mark Peaceful Eid

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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March 20, 2026

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Muslims in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria today (Friday) joined millions across the world to observe the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The two rakah prayers were held at various praying grounds across the state.

In Ilorin, the state capital, the Eid prayers were led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Sheikh Abdulhameed Abdullahi at the Yidi Praying ground.

The Imam in his sermon urged Muslims to sustain the virtues imbibed during Ramadan.

He called on the faithful to continue the acts of kindness, promote unity, and extend support to the less privileged in society.

The Imam also offered prayers for sustainable peace, unity, and development in Ilorin and Kwara State at large.

In an interview with the Talba of Ilorin, Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem, one time Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin felicitated with Muslims on the successful completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast.

He prayed that Allah accepts their act of worships, and reward their sacrifices.

Professor Abdulraheem, former Chairman, Federal Character Commission FCC, also advised residents of the state, particularly the youth, to be cautious in their movements during the festive period.

He emphasised the importance of valuing life, urging motorists to obey traffic regulations and cooperate with road safety officials.

Professor Abdulraheem noted that it is only in good health and safety that the Eid celebration can be truly enjoyed.

Meanwhile , the Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Mr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, has rejoiced with Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast of 1447AH, wishing them a rewarding spiritual exercise.

Mr. Danladi-Salihu in a statement reminded the Muslim faithful to carry on the lessons and teachings of Ramadan beyond the sacred month.

“AlhamduliLlah Robil Alameen for the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan fast, may Almighty Allah accept all our acts of worship and supplications and grant us the grace to carry on the lessons and teachings of unity, compassion, brotherhood, empathy, piety, sacrifice, self-restraint, and selflessness beyond the sacred month.

“As we observed the Eid prayer, I extend my hearty congratulations to the Kwara State Governor, His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq , the Emir of Ilorin Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the Muslim community on this auspicious occasion, Eid Mubarak!.”

The Speaker also called on Muslims to use the occasion to pray for Nigerian leaders at all levels for divine intervention to achieve a more peaceful, progressive, and united nation.

DG NILDS Congratulates Muslims, Encourages Continuing Charity After Ramadan.

The Director General National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, NILDS, Prof. Abubakar O Sulaiman has congratulated Muslims for witnessing the celebration of Eid ul- Fitr marking the end of the 2026 Ramadan Fasting and the beginning of the month of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar.

Prof. Sulaiman expressed his profound joy that God spared the lives of the Muslims to celebrate the Eid ul-fitr after one month of dedicated spiritual journeys and offered prayers for Allah’s forgiveness and Aljannat firidaus for those who were not privileged to witness the end of Ramadan

This is contained in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mohammad Abdulkadri to commemorate the post Ramadan festive periods.

He urged Muslims to make modesty, piety, and act of charity to the needy of the cornerstones of the celebrations in view of the current economic realities in the country.

The DG NILDS however cautioned this way, “That the end of Ramadan is not an end to good deeds towards humanity and worship of Allah if Muslims are to reap bountiful rewards for their fasting even beyond the month of Ramadan.”

The former Minister of National planning enjoined Muslim Ummah while at the Eid praying ground to patriotically reflect on the challenges bedevling the Nation and pray for the Nigerian leaders to succeed in making things better and brighter going forward ahead of the 2027 General elections in the country.

Similarly, Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, has called on Muslims to sustain the spiritual lessons and values imbibed during the holy month of Ramadan as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

In a statement issued to commemorate the occasion, Senator Mustapha extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly those in Kwara Central, on the joyous celebration.

The lawmaker described Eid as a time for gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to the virtues of devotion, compassion, and self-discipline cultivated during Ramadan. He urged Muslims to continue upholding these values in their daily lives for the betterment of society.

Senator Mustapha, who is the Turaki of Ilorin Emirate, also extended special felicitations to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq , Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, as well as the Kwara State Council of Ulamah, on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

The Senator prayed that Almighty Allah accepts all acts of worship observed during the holy month as Ibadah and rewards the faithful abundantly. He wished the Muslim Ummah a joyful and blessed Eid celebration.

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