Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service

NAF Executes Mop-Up Strikes on Insurgents in Borno

Nigeria

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April 12, 2026

NAF Executes Mop-Up Strikes on Insurgents in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force, as part of Operation HADIN KAI, carried out targeted airstrikes on known terrorist spots in the Jilli area of Borno State, Northeast Nigeria, on 11 April 2026, focusing on remaining insurgents to show its ongoing commitment to fighting terrorism and protecting civilians.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement, said that the mission was conducted as part of a coordinated air-ground integration operation with the Nigerian Army, following an earlier successful engagement that effectively decimated terrorist positions in the area.

Air Commodore Ejodame said that “coming amid intensified efforts to track and neutralise terrorist elements responsible for recent attacks on security forces within the wider theatre, the follow-on strikes were aimed at fleeing remnants and regrouping cells seeking to exploit the difficult terrain”.

According to him, acting on credible intelligence received through close coordination with relevant stakeholders and validated by the appropriate operational command, the operation further consolidated gains already achieved by friendly forces.

Air Commodore Ejodame added “This successful action highlights the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven, joint force operations in denying terrorists freedom of movement and preventing attacks on both security positions and civilian communities.”

He noted that by sustaining pressure through immediate mop-up strikes after the initial coordinated assault, the Air Component has reinforced ongoing efforts to secure lives, protect property, and stabilise vulnerable areas across Borno State and the wider North-East Theatre.

The operation shows that the Nigerian Air Force is determined to keep a close watch, act quickly and accurately, and support the country’s fight against terrorism, while also reassuring citizens that the Armed Forces are dedicated to bringing lasting peace and safety.

Nigeria Tasks Dangote on 600,000MT Sugar Production by 2030

Business and Tech

Omowumi Samuel

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April 12, 2026

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Nigeria Tasks Dangote on 600,000MT Sugar Production by 2030

The Nigerian Government has tasked the Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) to reach a production capacity of 600,000 metric tonnes (MT) per annum by 2030.

The Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh gave the charge during a visit to the company’s complex in Numan, Adamawa.

Enoh was accompanied by the Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council,l (NSDC)Mr Kamar Bakrin.

The Minister said “the visit formed part of ongoing inspections of sugar projects nationwide, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to accelerate Nigeria’s attainment of self-sufficiency in sugar production.”

Enoh said that “Nigeria’s annual Sugar consumption stood at about 1.8 million metric tonnes, far above current local production levels.”

According to him, as a leading operator in the sector, Dangote Sugar must contribute significantly to bridging the supply gap.

“DSR is a very big player in the industry. Our circumstances in this sector will continue to depend on what DSR does.

“The company must deliver at least 600,000 metric tonnes annually by 2030 and sustain the output thereafter,” he said.

Enoh commended the council for its role in driving the implementation of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan, noting that collaboration among stakeholders remained critical.

“I have lost count of the number of times Mr President has spoken about the development of the sugar industry at Federal Executive Council meetings,” he said.

The Minister described the infrastructure and level of investment at the Numan facility as evidence of commitment to the Backward Integration Programme.

Enoh, however, stressed the need to accelerate efforts to meet national targets, assuring that government would support operators to overcome existing challenges.

“We are aware that there are issues, including access to affordable long-term finance. Government is ready to work with stakeholders to address them,” he said.

Enoh said that “scaling up production was essential to meeting national expectations and reducing dependence on imports.”

He stated that the programme had created employment opportunities and added value through local processing of sugarcane.

The Vice President of the Dangote Group, Mr Olakunle Alake assured the Minister of the company’s commitment to expand production capacity.

Alake said the firm would invest more resources to meet the 600,000 metric tonnes target by 2030.

The Minister and his team inspected the new 6,000 tonnes-per-day factory expansion site, as well as harvest fields, mills and processing facilities during the visit.

The inspection also covered haulage systems, boilers, turbines and sugar bagging operations at the warehouse.

The Nigerian government recently launched the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).

The NSMP was launched to achieve self-sufficiency, reduce reliance on imported sugar, and bridge the massive gap between local production and the national consumption rate of approximately 1.8 million metric tonnes annually.

NAN

Buratai Lauds VON for Promoting Peace, Regional Integration

Nigeria

Rita Obiora

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April 12, 2026

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Buratai Lauds VON for Promoting Peace, Regional Integration

A former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the Benin Republic, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai has commended Voice of Nigeria for its professionalism and commitment to promoting peace, regional integration, and Pan-African ideals.

Speaking at the VON Forum 2026 in Abuja, he described the organisation as “professional, independent, pan-African, progressive, and visionary—a Nigerian voice with an African heart.”

He paid tribute to veteran journalists associated with VON, including the late Mohammed Okorejor, former Director of News, a most dynamic analyst with professional and patriotic zeal as well as Mr Ben Shamang, a retired Director of News, who served VON with excellence.

The former Army chief lauded the Director-General of VON, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndache, whom he described as “a friend with a difference, like a son.”

VON Forum 2026: Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to West Africa Peace

Buratai underscored Nigeria’s pivotal role in West Africa’s stability, stating: “For 51 years, Nigeria has been the unshakable anchor of ECOWAS. From ECOMOG in Liberia and Sierra Leone to stabilising The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria has sacrificed and invested in blood, treasure, and diplomacy to defend democracy. Our stability is inseparable from the security of our neighbours.”

He further noted that “the African Union has consistently recognised this interdependence, working alongside ECOWAS to build a peaceful and integrated West Africa.”

Asserting the link between democracy and collective security, Buratai said: “Nigeria’s 51 years in ECOWAS prove that democracy and collective security are two sides of the same coin. ECOWAS should continue to engage the African Union to bring back the Association of Sahel States (AES).”

He reiterated that “the unity of ECOWAS cannot be complete without Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic. Without unity, progress in the region may be a mirage.”

East, West Libya Strike Deal on Unified Public Spending

Africa

Simon Stephanie

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April 12, 2026

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East, West Libya Strike Deal on Unified Public Spending

Libya’s rival eastern and western legislative bodies have signed a United States-mediated agreement to unify public spending, marking the first such consensus in more than a decade, according to the country’s central bank.

The breakthrough follows years of political division after the 2011 Arab Spring uprising that toppled longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi.

Libya remains split between the UN-recognised Government of National Unity led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah in Tripoli, and a parallel administration in Benghazi backed by military commander Khalifa Haftar.

The agreement, signed by representatives of the Benghazi-based House of Representatives and the Tripoli-based High Council of State, seeks to harmonise fiscal policy and improve the management of public finances.

The central bank described it as “the first consensus on unified spending across Libya in over 13 years.”

Despite generating about 22 billion dollars in oil revenues last year, Libya continues to grapple with a foreign currency deficit estimated at nine billion dollars. In January, the central bank devalued the dinar by nearly 15 per cent for the second time in under a year, citing the absence of a unified national budget and other economic pressures.

Officials say the deal could strengthen financial stability and pave the way for more coherent economic governance. The central bank also acknowledged the role of the United States in mediating between the rival factions.

Libya, which holds Africa’s largest proven oil reserves estimated at 48.4 billion barrels, currently produces about 1.5 million barrels of crude per day, with plans to raise output to two million barrels.

Prime Minister Dbeibah welcomed the agreement, expressing appreciation for U.S. support, but stressed that its success would depend on sustained commitment from all parties to deliver tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.

Africa news

Women Affairs Minister Makes Digital Library Endowment To NSUK

Entertainment/Tourism

Victoria Ibanga

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April 12, 2026

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Women Affairs Minister Makes Digital Library Endowment To NSUK

Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has announced an endowment for the establishment of a state-of-the-art digital library at Nasarawa State University Keffi.

The announcement formed the highlight of the institution’s graduation of 25,000 students at the 8th Combined Convocation Ceremony and Silver Jubilee attended by distinguished dignitaries, including the Visitor to the University, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule.

Making the legacy announcement at a colourful event held in Keffi, Nasarawa State, she said, “Permit me to announce an endowment in collaboration with NSUK for a state-of-the-art e-digital library for the benefit of humanity.”

Describing the ceremony as a convergence of milestones, the Minister noted that 83 of the graduating students earned first-class honours, underscoring the institution’s academic progress over the past two and a half decades.

“Today’s ceremony is a convergence of milestones. We celebrate the graduation of over 25,000 students, including 83 who have distinguished themselves with first-class honours,” she stated.

Addressing the graduands on national development, she stressed the need to align education with economic realities, urging stronger collaboration between academia, government, and the private sector.

She told the graduands, “You have graduated at the right time, when the country is undergoing strong reform, a period that presents great responsibility and enormous opportunity.” Let us collectively come together to build our beloved country.”

The Minister emphasised that the evolving global environment requires not only academic excellence but also resilience, innovation, and ethical leadership.

She further highlighted progress in women’s participation in higher education, while acknowledging existing gaps.

“Too many women still face systemic barriers, limited access to finance, unequal opportunities in the labour market, and under-representation in leadership and decision-making spaces,” she noted.

Speaking in the presence of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, she encouraged female graduates to aspire to leadership, citing the Tanzanian leader as an example of determination and preparedness.

“She did not become President by waiting for permission; she became President by showing up, by being prepared, and by refusing to accept a ceiling where none needed to exist,” she cited.

The Minister also commended the leadership of the university under the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman.

“We are so proud of you, and we are grateful to all of you for that drive of excellence and commitment to ensuring that education continues to become a priority for the next generation and for us all,” she lauded.

She congratulated the university community on its Silver Jubilee and urged sustained commitment to excellence and national development.

The Minister also charged the graduating students to embrace responsibility and opportunity as the nation undergoes reforms.

The ceremony also featured the conferment of an honorary doctorate on Dr. Mahmood Ahmadu, Executive Chairman of MAG Group, and recognition of industrialist Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group.

Christopher Nwosu Emerges ADC Anambra Chairman Unopposed

Politics

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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April 12, 2026

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Christopher Nwosu Emerges ADC Anambra Chairman Unopposed

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has elected journalist and media entrepreneur, Christopher Nwosu as chairman of its Anambra State chapter.

He was elected following a consensus congress held in Awka, the state capital.

Nwosu emerged unopposed in a process unanimously endorsed by party delegates, leading to the inauguration of a new state Executive Committee comprising over ‘30 members to steer the party’s affairs ahead of forthcoming elections.’

The congress also ratified key procedural motions, including the dissolution of the outgoing state executive, adoption of outcomes from earlier ward and local government congresses, and formal approval of a consensus-based leadership selection process.

Party officials stated that the exercise complied with internal party guidelines and the provisions of Nigeria’s Electoral Act, although it was not monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The exercise was overseen by a five-member congress committee from Abuja led by Fidel Ayogu, who commended members for maintaining order and unity throughout the proceedings.

Other members of the newly constituted leadership include Chukwuemeka Okeke as deputy chairman, Chugbo Enwezor as secretary, Samuel Chukwumelu as legal adviser,Nnamdi Achike as state auditor.

In his acceptance speech, Nwosu pledged to unify the party, strengthen its grassroots structures, and rebuild public trust.

He described his emergence as a “call to service” and emphasised discipline, inclusion, and outreach as guiding principles for the new leadership.

He also referenced the political legacy of Peter Obi, citing his values of prudence and integrity as a model for the party’s direction, while calling for collective efforts to expand the ADC’s appeal across all local government areas of the state.

“As we prepare for the 2027 elections, our goal is clear: to secure decisive victories at all levels,” Nwosu said, outlining plans for intensified mobilisation and organisation across the state.

Party stakeholders urged the new leadership to prioritise transparency, inclusiveness, and internal democracy.

Ndubuisi Nwobu, a senior party figure, said the credibility of the executive would depend on its ability to avoid internal divisions and ensure equitable representation.

Nwobu also warned against the concentration of power within a narrow circle, urging the new leadership to institutionalise consultation and collective decision-making at all levels of the party.

He said “broad-based participation would not only strengthen internal cohesion but also enhance the party’s credibility among voters seeking accountable leadership.”

According to him, “establishing transparent channels for addressing disputes and ensuring fairness in appointments would be critical to sustaining unity and positioning the party for electoral success.”

Analysts say the ADC’s reliance on consensus, a common feature in Nigerian party politics, may help reduce intra-party disputes but also raises broader questions about internal democratic practices.

40th Anniversary: NDA Alumni Reflect on National Service, Security

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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April 12, 2026

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40th Anniversary: NDA Alumni Reflect on National Service, Security

Former officers of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) have used their 40th anniversary reunion to reflect on their years of national service and offer insights on strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

The event, which marked the 40th anniversary of the 27 Short Service Combatant Course, was held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.

It brought together retired coursemates who reunited to reconnect and assess their continued relevance to national development, particularly in the area of security.

Speaking with journalists, the President of the Alumni Association, retired Major General Okechukwu Ugo, said the reunion was not only aimed at fostering camaraderie but also at “reviewing their contributions to society and exploring avenues to give back meaningfully.”

Retired Major General Ugo said; “We are gathered as coursemates who left NDA 40 years ago, to review where we stand and see what we can give back to the society that made us what we are today.”

Drawing from decades of military experience, he noted that “Nigeria’s current security environment reflects broader global trends, particularly the rise of asymmetric threats and economic pressures driving criminality.

“Globally, insecurity is increasing, the cost of living and economic pressures are pushing more people toward illegal means, including kidnapping.”

Retired Major General Ugo said that the operational demands on the military have expanded significantly compared to earlier periods, with troops now engaged across multiple internal security roles nationwide.

He said; “The military today is overstretched, in our time, internal security issues were minimal, but now the Army is deployed across the country performing roles previously handled by the police.”

He called for continued investment in military capacity, including manpower expansion and modern platforms, to align force structure with current operational realities.

The event featured a lecture and is expected to conclude with a gala night, with the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), billed as Special Guest of Honour.

US, Iran Fail to Reach Deal After Marathon Talks

World

Jide Ibitoye

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April 12, 2026

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US, Iran Fail to Reach Deal After Marathon Talks

The United States and Iran have failed to reach an agreement following marathon talks held in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Sunday, ending efforts aimed at reducing tensions between both countries.

The 21-hour negotiations concluded without consensus, with both sides citing major disagreements over Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional security concerns.

Diplomatic sources said the talks, which followed a recent ceasefire arrangement, ended without a breakthrough, raising questions over the sustainability of the fragile understanding between the two sides.

A senior U.S. official said Washington had clearly outlined its position during the discussions.

“We’ve made very clear what our red lines are; we have not reached an agreement, and that reflects Iran’s decision not to accept the terms on the table,” the official said.

The United States has insisted that Iran must provide assurances that it will not pursue nuclear weapons capability or develop related technologies that could enable rapid weaponisation.

“We need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon and will not develop the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve one,” the official stated.

Iranian officials, according to state-affiliated media, described the U.S. demands as excessive. Iranian officials acknowledged some progress on certain issues, but significant differences persisted regarding Iran’s nuclear programme and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

A spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry said the talks were conducted in an atmosphere of mistrust, adding that it was unrealistic to expect a comprehensive agreement in a single round of negotiations.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, said it was important to maintain the current ceasefire arrangement while diplomatic efforts continue.

Reports indicate that the talks in Islamabad mark the first direct high-level engagement between the United States and Iran in over a decade.

Both delegations have since returned to their respective countries, according to diplomatic sources.

Reuters

Boxing: Fury Defeats Makhmudov, Sets Up Joshua Showdown

Sports

Chidi Uduma Nwoke

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April 12, 2026

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Boxing: Fury Defeats Makhmudov, Sets Up Joshua Showdown

Britain’s former heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury outclassed Russia’s Arslanbek Makhmudov en route to a comprehensive points win and then called for a showdown with compatriot Anthony Joshua.

With Joshua watching from ringside, Fury fought for the first time since ‌his second loss to Oleksandr Usyk in October 2024, in which he failed to regain the WBC belt he lost to the Ukrainian in the first defeat of his career the previous year. He weathered an early storm before winning comfortably.

Makhmudov enjoyed occasional success in the early rounds at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium by bull-rushing Fury and forcing him back onto the ropes but ⁠struggled to do much damage.

When the 37-year-old Fury started using his jab to control the distance, the writing was on the wall.

Fury began switching stances, bobbing and weaving and aiming to catch his opponent with uppercuts, and when the 36-year-old Russian clinched he was punished with heavy blows to the body and head.

As his opponent tired, the giant Briton began to exert his dominance in the later rounds of the 12-round bout, picking his shots and seldom finding himself in danger.

It was enough for all three judges to give him the decision, with two of them scoring the fight 120-108 and ‌one 119-109.

Read more: Boxing: Wilder Defeats Chisora, Calls Out Anthony Joshua

Fury ⁠took the microphone to call out 36-year-old Joshua in his post-fight interview for a fight that would arguably be the biggest in British boxing history.

“Next, I want to give you the fight you’ve all been waiting for. I want you AJ, Anthony Joshua, let’s give the fight fans what they want, the Battle of Britain,” Fury said.

“⁠And here’s my challenge. I challenge you, Anthony Joshua, to fight me, the Gypsy King, next – do you accept my challenge?”

Given the chance to respond, Joshua refused to take the bait but said he expected the ⁠fight to happen if negotiations could be completed successfully.

Tyson fury calls out Anthony Joshua after fight.

“Tyson, I’ve never had a problem getting in the ring with you,” Joshua said. “I’ll stand across that ring from you in due time. You ain’t ⁠going to tell me what to do.

“I’ve been chasing you for the last 10 years. When you’re ready, you come and see me and tell me your terms and conditions, and I’ll have you in the ring when I’m ready.”

Governor Bassey Otu, Others Bag UNICAL Awards

Entertainment/Tourism

Kamila Bello

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April 12, 2026

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Governor Bassey Otu, Others Bag UNICAL Awards

The University of Calabar in Cross River State, south-south Nigeria, has conferred honorary doctorate degrees on three prominent Nigerians at its 38th convocation ceremony for their immense contributions to the development of society.

Those honoured included the governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu; a business mogul, Arthur Eze and a retired naval chief, Rear Admiral Garba Abubakar, while 463 Nigerians bagged the university’s prestigious Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Sarkin Kano and Chancellor of the University, Aminu Ado Bayero, described education as a unifying force beyond borders.

The Chancellor noted that, “True wisdom has never recognised the artificial borders we draw; rather, it flows, nourishing every shore it touches.”

He urged the graduates to embody the institution’s motto, stressing that “people will not remember how many degrees you collected, but how wisely you carried them.”

He cautioned against allowing certificates to become burdens that weigh you down while emptying your character.

Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Offiong Efanga Offiong, said that the university was committed to academic excellence, integrity and innovation.

Professor Offiong, who highlighted ongoing reforms and infrastructure upgrades, stated, “A doctoral degree of the University of Calabar is not any ordinary degree. You have gone through the crucibles and sacrificed options to get to this point.”

He informed the graduates that the institution has implemented a strict policy against irregular admissions and is investing in research and entrepreneurship to close the gap between academia and industry.

According to him, key projects including upgraded lecture theatres, new laboratories, student hostels and an innovation hub equipped with modern technology were aimed at repositioning the university as a centre of academic excellence, innovation, and integrity.

In the same vein, the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Udom Ekpoudom, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to transparency and global competitiveness through partnerships.

Ekpoudom stated, “The future of higher education lies in strong collaborations with government, industry, alumni and the global academic community.”

The university leadership called on the graduates to translate their knowledge into service and national development as well as to sustain investment in infrastructure and collective action to strengthen its position as a leading centre of learning in Nigeria.

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