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Nigerian President Tinubu is visiting the UK for the first time since 1989, hosted by King Charles at Windsor Castle. The visit aims to deepen economic, diplomatic, and security ties amid Nigeria's ongoing reforms. Discussions will focus on trade, security, and investment, with a ceremonial welcome and strategic significance.
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On December 21, 2025, Nigerian authorities announced the release of the remaining 130 students and staff abducted from St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, completing the rescue of all 230 victims. The November 21 attack involved over 300 pupils and staff, with 50 escaping initially and 100 freed earlier. The children are expected to reunite with families in Minna for Christmas amid ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria.
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Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced a joint battalion of 5,000 troops at a summit in Bamako, aiming to combat rising extremism. The countries have expelled Western military partners and turned to Russia amid ongoing security challenges and regional tensions.
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The US and Ethiopia signed a five-year health cooperation MoU, committing over $1.6 billion in grants and co-financing to improve health systems, disease control, and emergency preparedness. Nigeria and Mozambique also received significant US health aid, focusing on HIV, malaria, and maternal health.
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Recent US surveillance flights over Nigeria and Ghana indicate increased security cooperation, following threats by President Trump to intervene militarily in Nigeria over violence against Christians. The flights, operated by Tenax Aerospace, aim to gather intelligence on militant groups and track a kidnapped US pilot amid regional tensions.
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The US launched a drone strike in northwest Nigeria targeting Islamic State militants, at Nigeria's request. The attack, announced by President Trump, aimed at groups attacking Christians, but details remain unclear. Local residents reported significant destruction and confusion about the specific targets.
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On January 5, 2026, the US and Nigeria conducted joint missile strikes targeting ISIS militants in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The operation aimed to degrade terrorist capabilities linked to ISIS and was approved by Nigerian authorities. No civilian casualties were reported. The strikes follow increased US involvement in Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts amid ongoing violence.
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On Monday, British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, Nigeria. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was hospitalized but discharged Wednesday. Two of his close associates, strength coach Sina Ghami and trainer Latif Ayodele, died in the accident caused by excessive speed, a tire burst, and collision with a stationary truck.
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Paris Jackson reflected on her recovery journey, sharing a recent Instagram post about her ongoing mental health struggles and triumphs. She emphasized that sobriety doesn't mean life is perfect and encouraged followers to find strength in vulnerability. Her message highlights resilience amid mental health challenges.
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The US conducted air strikes in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day, targeting ISIS-linked groups amid claims of Christian persecution. The strikes, confirmed by US and Nigerian officials, have heightened tensions and raised questions about regional security and religious conflict. The situation remains fluid as details are scarce.
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British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a car accident in Lagos, Nigeria, that resulted in the deaths of two team members. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was discharged from hospital. The driver has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The crash occurred shortly after Joshua's recent victory over Jake Paul.
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Since early January 2026, multiple violent attacks by suspected bandits and terrorists in Nigeria's Niger, Borno, Kwara, and Plateau states have killed over 70 people and led to numerous abductions, including traditional rulers and schoolchildren. President Bola Tinubu has condemned the violence, ordering security forces to intensify operations to rescue victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
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The US has announced new visa restrictions affecting 38 countries, mainly in Africa, requiring applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000. The policy aims to reduce overstays but raises concerns over affordability and fairness, especially for Nigerian travelers. It takes effect on January 21, 2026.
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The US conducted a military operation in Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and his wife, escalating tensions and challenging international law. The move follows months of US threats and sanctions, with global reactions questioning legality and sovereignty amid broader geopolitical conflicts.
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The U.S. has detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on drug charges, escalating tensions with Venezuela and issuing threats against Colombia, Mexico, Greenland, Iran, and Cuba. The move follows a military operation in Caracas and signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy, with potential for further military actions.
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Recent reports reveal a US surveillance plane used in a September strike in Venezuela was disguised as a civilian aircraft, carrying munitions internally. This raises legal questions about adherence to laws of war, amid US operations targeting drug smuggling and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
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A court in Nigeria is hearing the trial of five men accused of a deadly church attack in Ondo State, which killed dozens and injured many, including two amputees. Witness testimonies detail the attack's brutality, with ongoing efforts for justice and aid for victims.
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Zimbabwean preacher and evangelist Magaya's rape trial, scheduled to start this Monday, has been postponed due to communication issues and witness withdrawals. The defense argues the remand is harassment, while the magistrate's ruling is pending. The case involves five counts and two complainants.
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Rwanda has initiated arbitration proceedings against the UK at The Hague, claiming breach of a migrant partnership treaty. The deal, signed in 2024 to relocate asylum seekers to Rwanda, was canceled by Prime Minister Starmer in 2024. Rwanda seeks compensation for unpaid financial commitments amid legal disputes.
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Fela Kuti, the Nigerian pioneer of Afrobeat, was posthumously awarded the 2026 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, making him the first African artist to receive this honor. The recognition highlights his influence on global music, activism, and the evolution of African genres, with his family accepting the award in Los Angeles.
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A deadly attack in Woro village, Nigeria, has resulted in over 170 deaths. Gunmen, believed to be jihadists, targeted villagers rejecting extremist Islamic rule. The attack underscores escalating violence linked to jihadist groups and Nigeria's ongoing security crisis.