Tinubu confirms ISIS Commander Killed in Nigeria-US Operation

by

  President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the death of a top Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, popularly known as Abu-Mainok, following a joint military operation by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin. In a statement personally signed on Saturday, Tinubu said the operation marked “a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism” between both countries. The President said Nigerian troops, working with the US Armed Forces, carried out “a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.” He added that “early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin.” Tinubu described the operation as a major step in advancing the security objectives of both countries and commended the forces involved for their conduct. “Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” the statement read. The President also praised military personnel from both countries, saying, “I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation.” The development comes amid renewed military offensives against insurgent groups operating in the North-East and the Lake Chad region, where Islamic State-linked factions have sustained attacks on military formations and civilian communities. United States President Donald Trump had earlier confirmed the operation, describing Al-Minuki as “the most active terrorist in the world.” “Tonight, at my direction, brave American forces and the Armed Forces of Nigeria flawlessly executed a meticulously planned and very complex mission to eliminate the most active terrorist in the world from the battlefield,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday. Trump said the slain militant leader, whom he described as the “second in command of ISIS globally,” had believed he could evade capture in Africa. “Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, second in command of ISIS globally, thought he could hide in Africa, but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing,” he said. The US leader added that Al-Minuki, who was placed under American sanctions in 2023 over his ties to the Islamic State group, would “no longer terrorize the people of Africa, or help plan operations to target Americans.” He further stated that “with his removal, ISIS’s global operation is greatly diminished,” while thanking the Nigerian government for its “partnership” in the operation. The joint operation underscores growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States as both countries intensify efforts to weaken extremist networks operating across the Lake Chad Basin and the wider West African region.

EPL, FA Trophies Win won’t Define Man City’s Season, says Guardiola

by

  Pep Guardiola insisted Manchester City have had a successful season whether or not they win the Premier League title or Saturday’s FA Cup final against Chelsea. Guardiola’s side will put their attempt to catch Premier League leaders Arsenal on hold as they head to Wembley for a fourth successive FA Cup final appearance. City start every season with the Premier League and Champions League as their main targets, but they are on the verge of falling short in both. Knocked out of the Champions League last-16 by Real Madrid in March, City will be five points behind Arsenal if the Gunners beat relegated Burnley at home on Monday. Guardiola’s men can close the gap back to two points with a victory at Bournemouth in their penultimate match of the season on Tuesday. But Arsenal would then still be able to guarantee their first English title since 2004 by winning at Crystal Palace on May 24. Having already won the League Cup by beating Arsenal, City have a chance for a domestic double this weekend. However, Guardiola is adamant the campaign has been positive, no matter what happens at Wembley or in the title race. “It depends on the trophies you lift. Sometimes you lift trophies and the season has been successful,” said Guardiola, who would only offer “we’ll see” when asked if Rodri would be fit to start in midfield. “Sometimes, you lift and the truth is the season has been really, really bad. “I said a few weeks ago this season has been good. Really, really good.” – ‘Do better’ – After starting with Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku on the bench for Wednesday’s win against Crystal Palace, Guardiola isdon’t likely to field a full-strength team against Chelsea instead of prioritising the title fight. “It is the final of the FA Cup. The message is there are two prestigious clubs at Wembley in the FA Cup final. Our fans make an incredible effort to come down to London. It is not cheap,” he said. “We try to perform as much as possible to win. It is always the game-plan.” City have lost the last two FA Cup finals against Crystal Palace and Manchester United, who they had beaten in the 2023 showpiece. “There’s excitement, of course. I hope we can do better than the last two times,” Guardiola said. “Wembley is still a special place. Everything is so nice. The pitch is extraordinary. We are desperate to perform well.” Ahead of his 24th trip to Wembley with City, Guardiola joked that he is “so disappointed” heyou has not had a stand named after him at the home of English football. and “So many times I have been there, at least a lounge or a box orEPL, FA trophies win won’t define Man City’s season, says Guardiola something like that. Maybe I have to go 24 more times!” he said. Guardiola has one year left on his City contract and is yet to sign a new deal amid speculation that he could end his decade at the Etihad Stadium once the current campaign is over. Asked about reports that City’s fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura and goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor are set to leave the club, Guardiola said with a smirk: “I extended the contract with them three more years,” before adding: “Nope.”  

After Three-Nation Visit, Tinubu Returns To Lagos

by

  President Bola Tinubu returned to Lagos on Friday following a three-nation tour of France, Kenya, and Rwanda. Tinubu’s aircraft touched down at about 7:12 p.m. at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja. According to a statement issued by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president was received by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Femi Hamzat; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; and other government officials. “President Tinubu, while in France, met with global investors, emphasising transparency and fiscal discipline and explaining the rationale for the swift implementation of the bold economic reforms his administration has instituted. “He also participated in the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, co-hosted by President Emmanuel Macron of France and President William Ruto. “At the event, President Tinubu called for a reform of global financial architecture and a stronger economic integration that prioritises Africa’s growth and prosperity. “He also highlighted Nigeria’s potential in the blue economy as one of the cornerstones of Africa’s development, with a commitment to share Nigeria’s maritime intelligence infrastructure with willing Gulf of Guinea states,” the statement read. While in Nairobi, Tinubu also held a bilateral meeting with the Madagascan President, Michael Randrianirina. In Kigali, Rwanda, the President joined other African leaders, investors and chief executive officers at the Africa CEO Forum, where discussions focused on accelerating Africa’s economic transformation through regional integration and cross-border investments. He also met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and delegations from multilateral and multinational firms, including the International Finance Corporation, APM Terminals and the Winme Group. According to the statement, the meetings recorded “notable favourable outcomes.” Tinubu also participated in panel sessions and discussions centred on his administration’s economic reform agenda. The statement further disclosed that the President would participate in the All Progressives Congress primaries scheduled to begin on Saturday while in Lagos. It added that Tinubu had earlier urged party members participating in the primaries to maintain peace and conduct themselves as “sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”

Desmond Elliot Breaks Silence, Apologises To Gbajabiamila Over Political Rift

by

  Lagos lawmaker and Nollywood actor, Desmond Elliot, has tendered a public apology to his political mentor and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, admitting that he may have caused offence during his political engagements. Elliot made the apology during an appearance on TVC’s Your View on Friday, where he said any misunderstanding was unintentional and insisted he remained committed to party unity and development in his constituency. His apology comes amid previous political tensions linked to the Lagos State House of Assembly leadership crisis, during which Gbajabiamila had revealed that he nearly lost his position at the Presidency due to allegations tied to Elliot’s political activities. Gbajabiamila had said President Bola Tinubu confronted him over intelligence reports suggesting Elliot’s involvement in moves around the Assembly speakership tussle, a claim he denied at the time. Speaking on the programme, Elliot said he grew into politics under the guidance of a senior colleague he described as his “egbon”, adding that emotions and misunderstandings may have contributed to past friction. “I’m not saying, oh, yes, media will come out, oh yes, Desmond begs again. Yes, because he’s my egbon. And I grew up learning everything I knew in politics through him,” he said. He added that human error could not be ruled out in political relationships. “To err is human, to forgive is divine. So I’m sorry, my daddy, if I’ve offended you in any way,” he said. Elliot also extended his apology to who he described as the “matriarch of Surulere”, saying he regretted any offence caused. “To the matriarch of Surulere, mama, I’m sorry if I’ve offended you,” he said. Despite the apology, he maintained that he remains focused on strengthening the party and delivering on his mandate. “But I will keep keeping the party strong. And to all Surulerians, my scorecard is there. You know the things I’ve done to make Surulere a better place,” he added. The Lagos Assembly crisis, which involved leadership tensions within the All Progressives Congress, had triggered internal disputes before it was eventually resolved through high-level interventions.

Panic In Oyo As Gunmen Kill Teacher, Abduct Pupils And School Staff

by

  The Oyo State Police Command says it has begun a massive manhunt and rescue mission after armed hoodlums carried out coordinated attacks on schools and nearby communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state. According to a statement issued on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the attack occurred in the early hours of May 15, 2026, and led to the death of an assistant headmaster. The police said preliminary investigation showed that the attackers, who operated on motorcycles, simultaneously invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as Community Grammar School/L. A Primary School, Esiele, abducting pupils, students and staff members, including the Vice Principal, Mrs Alamu Folawe. Ayanlade said no pupil or student had been confirmed killed as at the time of filing this report, adding that an assistant headmaster, identified as Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack. He also disclosed that an okada rider was shot dead after reportedly resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle. The police said, “The command further gathered that Community Grammar School, Esiele, operates within the same premises as L. A Primary School, Esiele. The attackers, after abducting some victims, also took away a Toyota Corolla vehicle belonging to the abducted Vice Principal and later set the vehicle ablaze along the road leading to the forest. “Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately led operatives alongside other service commanders to the scene for on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination, while simultaneously directing a comprehensive manhunt for the perpetrators. “Operational assets, tactical teams and intelligence platforms have since been deployed to the affected communities to prevent any further breakdown of law and order, ensure public safety and facilitate the rescue of the abducted victims as well as the apprehension of those responsible for the heinous act.” The police urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and provide credible information that could aid ongoing rescue efforts.

Abiodun Endorses Salisu for Senate, Unveils Yayi as APC Consensus Candidate

by

  Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday introduced the Senator representing Ogun West and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, to stakeholders and party leaders in Ogun Central as the APC’s consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 election. The governor also endorsed Shuaib Salisu as their senatorial candidate for the forthcoming election. Speaking while presenting Senator Adeola to party members at an event held at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abiodun said it was the turn of Ogun Central to endorse the party’s candidate after similar endorsements by party members from Ogun East and Ogun West Senatorial Districts. Abiodun said, “The decision of the party stakeholders to endorse Sen Solomon Adeola is based on the quality and experience he possesses, having served as a member of the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and now as a serving senator. “And the consensus method was introduced to ensure the emergence of credible and widely accepted candidates who have contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of the party in the state, the party executives are committed to ensuring peaceful and rancour-free primary elections.” He described the process that produced the Senator Adeola as unprecedented in the state, adding that it has become a reference point for other states in the country. The governor called on party faithful to embrace peace and unity ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary elections. “Ogun State remains a model among states in the country in terms of party organisation. I want to urge you to sustain the existing momentum during the electioneering period. I can assure you that, with the help of God, we will emerge victorious,” he said. Abiodun noted that continuity in governance can only be achieved through peace, unity, and collective commitment within the party. Abiodun also at the event raised up the hand of the incumbent senator representing Ogun Central, Sen Shuaib as the party’s 2027 consensus candidate for the senatorial district. Shuaib is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity. Abiodun described Salisu, who was his Chief of Staff during his first term in office, as a dependable and reliable politician and administrator. “He is consistent. He is dependable and reliable,” the governor said. He added that the senator would continue his good work and make adjustments in areas he had not touched during his first term. While appreciating the people of Ogun Central for their support for his administration, he said the support has enabled the state to maintain one of the fastest-growing economies in the country. He announced that the party’s direct primary elections would commence on Friday and urged members to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid actions capable of undermining the integrity of the process. Accepting the endorsement, Senator Adeola said he was taking the endorsement seriously to ensure that the party and the government continue to move forward. He pledged to sustain the legacies and consolidate on the gains of the present administration to move the state to the next level. “I will not take this endorsement for granted. I will ensure that the peace and unity existing in the state and the party are sustained,” he concluded. Also speaking at the event, Salisu, a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer Society expressed gratitude to party members for the overwhelming support given to him. The ICT expert vowed to justify the confidence reposed in him. Born in Abeokuta, Salisu holds degrees in Computer Science and Management from the University of Lagos, including a B.Sc., M.Sc., and MBA, and has executive training from Harvard Kennedy School. Before politics, he worked with major firms such as Total, Mobil, and ETB, and founded Simplex Automation Systems, an ICT company. He served as Chief of Staff to Governor Dapo Abiodun from 2019 to 2023 before being elected senator in 2023. In the 10th Senate, he chairs the Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity and is Vice Chairman of Media and Public Affairs. As of 2026, he is leading efforts on the Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, supporting digital journalism through equipment donations, and promoting education by providing free JAMB forms to students in his district. Earlier in his opening remarks, the state’s APC chairman, Yemi Sanusi, said the meeting was convened to discuss the party’s processes and how to ensure unity ahead of the 2027 elections, while calling for decorum during the House of Representatives primary on Friday.

Tinubu: Backing Dangote Refinery Was a Strategic Move

by

  President Bola Tinubu has justified his administration’s backing of the Dangote Refinery, warning that Nigeria might have plunged into a serious crisis amid ongoing global tensions without a functioning local refinery. The remarks were made on Thursday on the sidelines of the 13th Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda. Tinubu said the country’s large population and dependence on petroleum products made it imperative to support domestic refining initiatives such as the Dangote refinery. “Today, with the crisis around the whole world. particularly around conflict, Nigeria wouldn’t be able to survive, over 200 million people, without a refinery,” he said. He added that supporting the refinery was a strategic decision aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s energy security and reducing dependence on imported fuel. “A risk-taker like the Dangote Refinery must be encouraged by the government in power. What I did was support him, give him free trade for his own licence, and support him in his efforts to source the crude that is necessary. Today, he is the exporter of both the PMS, aviation fuel,” he added. The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where ongoing conflicts and security threats around major oil-producing and shipping routes have continued to raise concerns over global crude supply and fuel prices. The instability has contributed to volatility in the international energy market, with several countries reviewing energy security measures and seeking to reduce dependence on imported refined petroleum products. The Dangote refinery, owned by billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, began fuel production amid efforts by the Federal Government to end decades of dependence on imported refined products. The facility has been projected to significantly reduce pressure on foreign exchange demand and strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence.

Breaking: Seyi Makinde Announces 2027 Presidential Bid on APM Platform against Bola Tinubu

by

  Seyi Makinde on Thursday announced plans to run in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), potentially setting the stage for a showdown with President Bola Tinubu. Makinde made the declaration during a large political gathering at Mapo Hill in Ibadan, Oyo State, where supporters of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APM gathered. Addressing supporters at the event, the governor said Nigeria needs “a new direction driven by competence, inclusion, and grassroots development,” while calling for broader political cooperation beyond traditional party divisions. The announcement immediately generated reactions across political circles, as many asked if the governor has what it takes to face president Tinubu in the ring. Supporters at the rally waved party banners and raised cassava stems into the air as symbolic representations of grassroots mobilisation and economic resilience, while chants of support filled the venue after the declaration. The development is expected to intensify political realignments ahead of 2027, especially in the South-West, where both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition blocs are already positioning for future contests. Security personnel maintained a strong presence around the rally venue as celebrations continue.

Report: Femi Otedola Acquires £53m Mansion in London

by

  Femi Otedola has reportedly purchased a London mansion valued at £53 million (approximately $72 million), marking another major deal in the city’s upscale property market, according to a Thursday report by Bloomberg. The 10-bedroom property is located in St John’s Wood, a high-end district in London, a short distance from Regent’s Park. Bloomberg reports that the purchase was completed late last year, according to a UK filing. The property, built in 2016, reportedly includes luxury facilities such as a cinema, spa and cigar room. It was previously listed for £75 million in 2020, according to media reports. Otedola is the chairman and majority shareholder of First HoldCo Plc, one of Nigeria’s largest financial services groups, with investments spanning energy, finance, shipping and insurance brokerage. The deal highlights continued activity in London’s prime residential property market, despite pressure from higher property taxes and changes to tax incentives for foreign residents. London’s high-end property market remains a key destination for ultra-wealthy global buyers, with luxury homes in areas such as St John’s Wood, Belgravia and Chelsea often attracting multimillion-pound deals despite fluctuations in the broader UK housing market. The acquisition adds to Otedola’s portfolio of luxury assets and reinforces the long-standing appeal of London’s upscale neighbourhoods among wealthy Nigerian businessmen and executives. In recent years, several Nigerian banking and business figures have been linked to high-value properties in the UK capital. In 2025, Access Bank Chief Executive Officer Roosevelt Ogbonna reportedly acquired a £15 million property in Hampstead, an affluent London district often associated with wealthy foreign investors. St John’s Wood, where Otedola’s new mansion is located, is regarded as one of London’s most exclusive residential areas, known for its detached luxury homes, privacy and proximity to Regent’s Park and the Lord’s Cricket Ground. Okiki Adeduyite Okiki is a journalist with over seven years experience covering politics, foreign news, society, entertainment and the film industry.

JUST IN: EFCC Arrest Energy Commission DG over Alleged N500bn Fraud

by

  Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdullahi, over alleged money laundering offences. A source within the anti-graft agency, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, disclosed on Wednesday that Abdullahi was arrested in Abuja and is currently in the custody of the commission. According to the source, the alleged fraud involves funds estimated at N500bn. “We have arrested the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, for money laundering offences. He was arrested and is currently in our custody. The money is to the tune of N500bn,” the official said. Efforts to get confirmation from the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as he could not be reached as of the time of filing this report. President Bola Tinubu had on October 24, 2023 appointed Abdullahi as Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria. Details later…

Stay Informed. Stay Ahead

Get breaking news and top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Get the Morning Briefing

Tops stories from Nigeria delivered free to your inbox every day.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Your No 1 Trusted News Source 

Email info@citybuzz.com 

Web Citybuzznews.com

LEGAL

SECTIONS

©Copyright Citybuzz News. All rights reserved.