US Military Jets Touch Down as Joint Counter-Terror Deployment Begins

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

C-17 Globemaster III

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — The landscape of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency effort shifted significantly this week as three United States military aircraft arrived at the Nigerian Air Force base in Maiduguri. The arrival of the C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Super Hercules transport planes marks the "vanguard" of a strategic deployment aimed at dismantling jihadist networks and restoring stability across West Africa.

The first aircraft touched down late Thursday night, February 12, 2026, followed by two more by Friday evening. This operation is the first major physical manifestation of a bilateral agreement between the Biden-Trump transition era policies and the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, following a series of high-level security talks in Abuja earlier this year.

The deployment consists of approximately 100 US troops arriving this weekend, with the total number expected to reach 200 personnel in the coming weeks. However, Major General Samaila Uba, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, was quick to clarify the parameters of the mission to prevent any misconceptions regarding national sovereignty.

"These personnel do not serve in a combat capacity and will not assume a direct operational role," General Uba stated. "Nigerian forces retain full command authority, make all operational decisions, and will lead all missions on Nigerian sovereign territory."

The US forces, primarily intelligence analysts and tactical trainers, will focus on enhancing the Nigerian military's capability to coordinate air strikes and ground maneuvers simultaneously a critical gap in past operations against ISWAP and Boko Haram.

Beyond personnel, the aircraft have begun offloading massive quantities of ammunition and specialized gear. This influx of equipment is part of a broader logistical "stream" intended to replenish Nigerian stocks exhausted by years of persistent conflict.

Security experts tracking the deployment noted that while Maiduguri serves as the primary hub for northeastern operations, other aircraft have touched down at Kainji Air Base and Kaduna International Airport. The spread suggests a multi-front strategy targeting not only the Lake Chad region but also the Middle Belt, where resource-based conflicts have frequently spiraled into ethnic and religious violence.

The current mission builds on the momentum of a "rapid shift" in US-Nigeria relations following US-supported airstrikes against Islamist militants last Christmas. Washington has increasingly focused on what it calls the "protection of vulnerable communities," particularly in the Middle Belt, following intense diplomatic pressure from international activists and Republican lawmakers in the US.

The joint operation focuses on three main pillars: Intelligence Sharing: Utilizing US surveillance data to identify high-value terrorist targets. Infrastructure: Establishing secure, encrypted communication lines between command centers. Rescue Operations: Training Nigerian special forces in advanced navigation and personnel recovery.

As additional C-17 flights are expected over the next fortnight, the presence of foreign boots even in an advisory role signals a new phase in Nigeria's security architecture. For residents of Maiduguri, the sight of the massive American transport planes is a visual reminder of the internationalization of the fight against insurgency.

Argungu Fishing Festival 2026: A Masterclass in Heritage, Unity, and Spectacle

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival returned in 2026 with a resounding display of Nigeria’s vibrant cultural identity, transforming the historic town of Argungu, Kebbi State, into a global theater of tradition. 

Originally established in 1934 to cement peace between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom, the festival has evolved from a local reconciliatory pact into a UNESCO-recognized masterpiece of intangible cultural heritage. 

This year's edition, which concluded on February 14, 2026, drew over 50,000 participants and tourists, proving that the festival remains a vital pillar of national unity and a crown jewel of West African tourism.

The Grand Finale: A 59kg Catch Steals the Show

The climax of the four-day event was the legendary mass fishing competition at the Matan Fada River. In a moment of high drama, a massive crowd of fishermen, unable to contain their excitement, surged into the river shortly after noon, even before the official arrival of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Armed only with traditional hand-woven nets and large calabash gourds, the fishermen demonstrated ancestral skill and physical endurance. The 2026 champion, Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area, emerged victorious after landing a staggering 59kg croaker fish, earning him two brand-new Toyota cars and a ₦1 million cash prize.

A Multidimensional Cultural Exhibition

Beyond the adrenaline-fueled fishing contest, the 2026 festival expanded its reach with a diverse array of events. The Kabanci water displays featured thrilling canoe races, wild duck catching, and diving contests that tested the limits of the participants' aquatic prowess. 

On land, the air was thick with the sounds of traditional drummers and praise singers, while masquerades and cultural dancers animated the festival grounds. A new highlight for the 2026 edition was the International Catapulting Competition, which successfully fused indigenous hunting traditions with modern competitive sport, captivating an international audience.

Presidential Recognition and National Stability

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attending as the Special Guest of Honour, lauded the festival as a "powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence." He noted that the successful hosting of the 61st edition is a testament to the return of stability and normalcy in the region. 

The President emphasized that such socio-cultural events are essential drivers for economic diversification, tourism, and rural development. He further commended Governor Nasir Idris for his "purposeful leadership" and for maintaining the security atmosphere necessary to host an event of such international magnitude.

Preserving a UNESCO Global Legacy

The Argungu Festival is more than a competition; it is a living archive of the Kebbawa culture. By banning modern fishing techniques and equipment, the festival ensures that traditional methods are passed down to younger generations. 

This commitment to authenticity is what earned the event its UNESCO inscription in 2016. As the 2026 festival closes, its impact resonates far beyond the riverbanks, stimulating local commerce, boosting the hospitality sector, and reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a premier destination for cultural tourism on the global stage.

Badagry Deep Seaport Developer Sultan bin Sulayem Resigns Amid Jeffrey Epstein Revelations

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Proposed Badagry Seaport and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem

DUBAI, UAE – Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the longtime Chairman and CEO of DP World, has resigned following the release of thousands of emails detailing a graphic and personal relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The departure of the Emirati billionaire marks a dramatic fall for the man who once spearheaded a multi-billion dollar bid to transform Nigeria’s maritime landscape through the Badagry Deep Seaport.

The resignation, announced on Friday, February 13, 2026, came after intense pressure from international investors. DP World confirmed that Essa Kazim has been appointed as the new Chairman, while Yuvraj Narayan takes over as Group CEO. The company stated the move was to "support its strategy for sustainable growth," though the timing directly follows the unsealing of U.S. Justice Department files that named bin Sulayem over 4,000 times in correspondence with Epstein.

Bin Sulayem’s influence famously extended to Nigeria, where he aggressively pursued the development of the Badagry Deep Seaport in Lagos. Emails from June 2018 reveal that bin Sulayem contacted Jide Zeitlin, a Nigerian-born Wall Street investor and former Goldman Sachs partner, to express his preference for the Badagry site over Lekki.

"Dear Jide, Jeffrey introduced us a while ago. We are very interested in Nigeria. The two locations available are Badagry and Lekki, we prefer Badagry because the infrastructure is better," bin Sulayem wrote in a 2018 email, highlighting how the Epstein network acted as a bridge for Nigerian infrastructure discussions.

The unsealed files paint a disturbing picture of the bond between the Dubai ports boss and the convicted paedophile. In one 2013 exchange, Epstein referred to bin Sulayem as one of his "most trusted friends in every sense of the word," adding that the Emirati had "never let him down."

The correspondence included lewd details, with bin Sulayem recommending a Tokyo-based spa to Epstein that offered explicit services such as "facesitting" and "ejaculation by hand massage." In other messages, bin Sulayem boasted of his sexual exploits, describing a September 2015 encounter with a Russian woman as the "best sex I ever had."

The scandal has also cast a shadow over former Nigerian Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okey Enelamah. Reports suggest that Jide Zeitlin the man bin Sulayem lobbied for the Badagry project had previously introduced Enelamah and Sulayem through the Epstein network. While Enelamah, a Pentecostal pastor, has maintained he committed no wrongdoing, the revelation of these high-level connections to the Epstein circle has sparked fresh scrutiny of past Nigerian trade negotiations.

The fallout reached a breaking point when major financial partners began severing ties. British International Investment (BII) and Canada’s La Caisse, which has invested over $5 billion in DP World, paused future ventures, demanding that the company "shed light" on bin Sulayem’s conduct.

"We have made it clear to the company that we expect it to shed light on the situation and take the necessary actions," a representative for La Caisse stated, emphasizing the distinction between the corporation and the individual.

With bin Sulayem out, the new leadership under Kazim and Narayan faces the monumental task of restoring the reputation of Dubai’s largest seaport operator. The company oversees roughly 10% of global container traffic, but the shadow of the Epstein files and the "torture video" comments which bin Sulayem was allegedly associated with threatens to linger.

For Nigeria, the resignation marks the end of an era for the specific vision of the Badagry Deep Seaport once pushed by bin Sulayem. As the global maritime community watches the transition, the focus shifts to whether the new leadership will revisit abandoned African projects or distance itself entirely from the controversial legacy of its former chief.

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**Would you like me to draft a follow-up analysis on how this leadership change might impact current DP World investments in other African ports?**

APC Vows to Resist Vandalism of President Tinubu’s Billboards

 By: Manoah Kikekon

GUSAU, Zamfara – The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning against the "unruly" destruction of billboards featuring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle.

In a statement released on Friday, February 13, 2026, the party condemned the wave of vandalism sweeping through the state capital, Gusau. The party leadership cautioned that these targeted attacks on political symbols are not mere acts of mischief but are calculated attempts to incite political violence and destabilize the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the Zamfara APC Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris, the party has observed a systematic removal and destruction of billboards carrying the President’s image. This "erratic behavior," he noted, has transitioned from a general clampdown on APC branding to direct disrespect toward the nation’s Commander-in-Chief.

"This behavior has been ongoing over time, and it started with the clampdown on all APC billboards until the party petitioned security agencies," Idris stated. "Enough is enough. The APC, as a peace-loving party, will not fold its arms while disrespectful citizens carry out such illegal activities in the name of politics."

The statement highlighted a specific incident on Wednesday when sponsored thugs allegedly attempted to vandalize a prominent billboard located in front of the personal residence of Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence. The billboard also featured **Senator Abdulaziz Yari, both of whom are former governors and influential leaders within the party.

The APC credited the quick intervention of security personnel attached to the minister’s residence for preventing the total destruction of the facility. The party warned that using "thugs" to stir up crisis ahead of party congresses is a dangerous precedent that must be stopped immediately.

The Zamfara APC is now calling on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to treat these acts of vandalism as a threat to national security. Idris emphasized that the party would no longer tolerate the "incivility" of selfish politicians who encourage lawlessness to gain political leverage.

"We will not tolerate the activities of some selfish politicians to encourage political violence. We implore security agencies in the state to stop such vandalism and disrespect to the president," the statement added.

As the 2027 election cycle begins to loom, the political atmosphere in Zamfara remains tense. The APC maintains that while political rivalry is expected, the destruction of public and private property crosses a legal and moral line.

Rotaract District 9111 Hosts Spectacular "Rota Cultural Fiesta 2026" in Lagos

 By: Manoah Kikekon

IDIMU, LAGOS – In a display of heritage and fellowship, Rotaract District 9111 successfully hosted the 2026 edition of its Rota Cultural Fiesta. The event, which took place on January 31st at Idimu, Lagos, served as a powerful platform to celebrate the beauty and unity of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups, bringing together hundreds of young leaders and culture enthusiasts.

The fiesta showcased the rich traditions of the Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Edo cultures through a series of colorful activities, including traditional music, high-energy dance performances, and an array of indigenous delicacies. Beyond the entertainment, the event was designed to foster a deeper understanding of the country's multi-ethnic tapestry, encouraging participants to embrace their roots while building bridges of peace.

Addressing the gathering, the District Rotaract Representative (DRR), Rtr. Senu Awesu, emphasized that the celebration was a strategic move toward social cohesion.

“This fiesta is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity where we reconnect with our roots, appreciate our differences, and strengthen the bond of fellowship among Rotaractors,” Awesu stated.

He further noted that such events are essential for young people to build a sense of national identity in an increasingly globalized world.

The highlight of the day was the intense cultural competition between the various zones of the district, each tasked with representing one of Nigeria's major tribes. After a series of breathtaking displays:

Ogun West and Central (representing the Yoruba tribe) emerged as the overall winners, captivating the judges with their storytelling and attire.

Lagos Central (representing the Hausa culture) secured the second-place spot with a disciplined and elegant presentation.

Lagos East (representing the Igbo tribe) came in third, delighting the audience with the iconic sounds of the Ogene and energetic dance steps.

As the event concluded, participants shared that the "Rota Cultural Fiesta 2026" left them with unforgettable memories and a renewed pride in their heritage. By successfully blending networking with cultural education, Rotaract District 9111 has set a high standard for youth-led organizations in Nigeria, proving that diversity is indeed a source of strength and celebration.

Biodun Coker Foundation Donates Modern ICT Centre to 135-Year-Old Lagos School

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, Nigeria – In a significant move to accelerate digital literacy among primary school pupils, the Biodun Coker Foundation (BCF) has officially commissioned and donated a fully equipped Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre to Holy Trinity Primary School in Isale-Eko, Lagos Island. 

The intervention marks a historic milestone for the 135-year-old institution, which has operated for over a century without a dedicated digital learning hub.

The inauguration, held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, drew a crowd of community leaders, political figures, and educational stakeholders. The project is designed to provide pupils with early exposure to essential 21st-century skills, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly automated global economy.

Fulfilling a Promise of Digital Transformation

Speaking at the event, the founder of the foundation and former Lagos Island chairmanship aspirant, Mr. Biodun Coker, described the project as a "promise fulfilled." He recalled a strategic decision made during his 2025 campaign to resist "surface-level" donations in favor of high-impact interventions.

"During the campaign, it was suggested that we spread 20 computers across ten different schools. We said no. Two computers cannot build digital confidence or create a lasting impact. Today, we are delivering excellence not just donating equipment," Coker stated.

From Dumping Ground to Digital Hub

The transformation of the facility was one of the highlights of the ceremony. Coker revealed that the space now housing the 20 high-performance computer systems was previously a "dumping ground" filled with abandoned papers and debris. The foundation cleared the clutter, upgraded the electrical infrastructure, and installed advanced projection technology to create a world-class learning environment.

This new center at Holy Trinity is the second major school project by the foundation, following a similar installation at Edward Blyden Memorial School in 2025. The foundation also operates a functional hub in Olowogbowo, which has already graduated over 1,000 students.

Empowering the Next Generation

Addressing the pupils directly, Mr. Coker emphasized that the center is a gateway to the future.

"Inside that room, you are not just learning computers; you are learning the language of the future. You are stepping into a global world of opportunity. Dream bigger, think wider, and aim higher," he urged the excited children.

"University of Lagos Island"

The Headteacher of Holy Trinity Primary School, Mr. Anthony Dasilver, expressed profound relief and joy at the development. He noted that for years, pupils had to travel to Aroloya for basic computer training.

"When the foundation came, I felt so happy that someone remembered us. With this centre, our school has become the 'University of Lagos Island,'" Dasilver remarked, highlighting the prestige the facility brings to the historic school.

Government and Community Support

The initiative received high praise from the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the Lagos Island Education Authority. Mr. Kudus Abari, the Education Secretary, pledged immediate government support by promising to deploy specialized computer teachers to ensure the facility is put to optimal use.

Representing the APC leadership, Mr. Moshood Mayegun, Deputy Chairman of the Lagos State APC, commended Coker’s commitment to community development. He noted that Coker is "changing the political narrative in Lagos Island" by focusing on identified educational needs rather than mere rhetoric.

A Legacy of Excellence

Alumni of the school, including Dr. Owoyemi Elegbeleye, encouraged the current pupils to seize the opportunity provided by the foundation. The event was further brightened by the presence of traditional rulers and residents of Isale-Eko, who lauded the foundation for bringing "digital hope" to the grassroots.

By focusing on a 135-year-old school, the Biodun Coker Foundation is not just preserving history but ensuring that the children of Isale-Eko are equipped to write the next chapter of Lagos State's digital success story.

Nigeria Customs Vows to End Illegal Checkpoints and Protect Badagry Tourism

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Senior secretary officers, Badagry Local Government chairmen and traditional rulers 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a stern warning against the proliferation of illegal security checkpoints and unauthorized nocturnal operations along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. In a bold declaration that signals a new era of border security, the Service stated that any operative caught breaking into shops or "rice stores" under the cover of darkness would no longer be viewed as a law enforcement officer, but would be treated as an armed robber.

This landmark directive was disclosed on Thursday, February 12, 2026, during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement programme organized by the Joint Border Security Committee in collaboration with the Badagry Local Government. Held at the Badagry City Hall, the event brought together security chiefs, traditional rulers, and community leaders to address the long-standing grievances of residents and traders along the strategic West African corridor.

Drastic Reduction of Checkpoints

The Customs Area Controller for the Seme Border Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, emphasized that the primary objective of the new strategy is to streamline operations and dismantle the "bottleneck" of multiple roadblocks. He acknowledged that the current volume of checkpoints particularly those involving sister agencies has become a hindrance to legitimate trade and a burden on the local population.

"The major takeaway from this engagement is that we are going to make sure the checkpoints are drastically reduced. The reduction of Immigration checkpoints is a significant challenge, but we are working closely with their Comptroller to ensure a unified and leaner security presence on the road," Adenuga stated.

Ending "Night Raids" and Illegal Extortion

In a move to restore public confidence, Comptroller Adenuga addressed the controversial practice of officers entering markets and private stores at night. He made it clear that such actions are outside the bounds of official Customs duty.

"I have told my men: any shop they break into to pack rice at night, they are armed robbers," Adenuga declared. "We must do this job in a way that people will commend us, not fear us. I am ready to cooperate 100%, and I urge the public to report any illegal checkpoints they encounter immediately."

Bridging the Gap Between Agencies and the Community

The engagement was initiated to heal the fractured relationship between security forces and the Badagry residents. Col. Ambrose Ikoro, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Comptroller of the 243 Battalion, Ibereko, explained that the initiative is not a one-time event but a continuous process of integration. He stressed that the goal is to "bridge the gap" and foster a "handshake" between the community and those sworn to protect it.

Security Through Local Intelligence

The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, applauded the initiative, recalling his time in the House of Representatives where he moved a motion regarding the porosity of Nigeria's borders. He noted that the best way to secure the corridor is by involving the people who live there.

"If we say things are going fine and don't make moves, those who know our strategies will break down the system. The residents know everything going on in their community; they are the best source of information to help security agencies do their jobs effectively," Hunpe remarked.

A Sustainable Path Forward

The stakeholders’ agreement marks a significant shift toward community policing and transparent border management. By involving traditional rulers, youth leaders, and trade associations, the Joint Border Security Committee aims to replace the culture of "harassment and extortion" with one of "facilitation and safety."

As the Nigeria Customs Service moves to implement these changes, the message to both officers and the public is clear: the Lagos-Badagry Expressway must become a corridor of prosperity, not a corridor of fear. The Service has invited the media and the public to act as watchdogs, ensuring that only the officially recognized checkpoints remain active.

Would you like me to draft a series of "Know Your Rights" infographics or social media posts to help Badagry residents report illegal checkpoints?