Immigration Boss Suspends Commanders Over Seme Border Extortion Scandal

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has suspended the commanding officers overseeing the Lagos-Seme border corridor. The suspension follows a wave of viral reports and online videos alleging systemic extortion by immigration personnel stationed along the strategic West African gateway.

The Lagos-Seme route, which connects Nigeria to the Republic of Benin, is a critical artery for regional trade and travel. However, it has frequently been marred by allegations of harassment. This recent intervention signals a "zero-tolerance" approach from the NIS leadership regarding professional misconduct at the nation's frontiers.

The NIS issued a formal statement on Friday, signed by Public Relations Officer Akinsola Akinlabi, confirming that an official investigation is currently underway. While the service did not specify the exact number of officers relieved of their duties, the mandate is clear: identify every individual involved and apply strict disciplinary measures.

"The Comptroller-General unequivocally condemns the actions depicted in these reports," the statement read. "Such conduct is unacceptable and stands in direct violation of the core values, ethics, and operational standards of the Service."

The Seme land border is arguably the busiest entry point in West Africa, handling massive volumes of commercial goods and cross-border commuters. Historically, the corridor has been a flashpoint for tension; it was notably shut down between 2019 and 2020 by the previous administration to curb smuggling, a move that sparked significant economic debate.

Since assuming office in January 2024, Kemi Nandap has consistently campaigned for discipline and public accountability. During her tenure, she has frequently reminded officers that the reputation of the NIS rests on their transparency and treatment of the public.

The Nigeria Immigration Service is encouraging the public to act as whistleblowers to help sanitize the agency. The NIS stated it remains resolute in facilitating lawful migration while protecting public trust.

If you witness or experience extortion or harassment at any Nigerian border, you can reach the NIS via the following channels:

Social Media: @nigimmigration (X, Instagram, Facebook)

24-Hour Contact Lines: 09121900655, 09121556359, and 09121477092

Navy Detains Personnel After Viral Street Brawl During President Tinubu’s Visit

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Idris Abbas 

YENAGOA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Navy has officially moved to restore order within its ranks, confirming the arrest of several personnel involved in a public scuffle with soldiers in Bayelsa State. The incident, which took place on Friday, April 10, 2026, occurred against the backdrop of President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the region.

The altercation gained immediate national attention after a 53-second video surfaced on social media, showing uniformed officers engaged in a physical confrontation that quickly spiraled into a "free-for-all" brawl.

According to the viral footage and witness accounts, the drama began as President Tinubu was departing the venue of an official engagement. The video captures a driver of a Hilux vehicle labeled “Naval Police” stepping out to confront another driver in a verbal dispute. 

The situation turned violent when a soldier, armed with a rifle, approached the naval driver and struck him, triggering a wider scuffle. Personnel from both sides were seen trading blows while stunned bystanders watched. The chaotic scene has since drawn widespread criticism from Nigerians, many calling it an embarrassing display of indiscipline.

Responding to the fallout on Saturday, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abi Folorunso, confirmed via his official X handle that the personnel involved are no longer on duty and have been taken into custody.

“The affected personnel are in custody and already undergoing appropriate administrative and disciplinary procedures in accordance with extant military regulations,” Folorunso stated.

The Navy emphasized that the military maintains a zero-tolerance policy for such misconduct and is working to ensure that inter-service relations between the Army and Navy remain professional and cohesive.

The clash marred what was otherwise a high-profile visit by President Tinubu, during which he commissioned several key infrastructure projects, including 60-megawatt gas turbine plants at Elebele in Ogbia Local Government Area. 

While the exact cause of the friction between the drivers remains under investigation, military authorities have assured the public that the "unfortunate" incident does not reflect the standard of coordination between the branches of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Tragedy as Nigeria Airstrike Hits Jilli Market; 200 Feared Dead on Borno-Yobe Border

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

GEIDAM, NIGERIA – A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike reportedly missed its intended target, hitting a crowded commercial hub. Early reports and local eyewitnesses suggest a catastrophic loss of life, with fatalities feared to reach as high as 200 people.

The market, a vital economic lifeline situated on the volatile border between Borno and Yobe states, was at its busiest when the bombardment occurred. Traders from surrounding communities, including Geidam and Gubio, had gathered for their routine weekly trade before the strike turned the area into a landscape of debris and grief.

Military sources indicate that the operation was conducted under Operation Hadin Kai, the multi-service campaign aimed at eradicating Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) remnants. The jets were reportedly targeting a known insurgent stronghold in the Jilli axis, where terrorists have recently been seen extorting levies from locals.

Related News:

Civilians Feared Dead in NAF Airstrike on Yobe Market

However, survivors describe a different reality on the ground. Multiple explosions tore through the heart of the civilian market, leaving behind a trail of charred goods and bodies. 

"It was a scene from a nightmare. The bombs landed right where people were buying and selling," said one resident who escaped the blast. 

The fallout from the strike has overwhelmed local medical infrastructure. Specialist Hospital Geidam is currently treating dozens of critically injured survivors, while others with more severe trauma have been referred to Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.

Lawan Zanna Nur Geidam, a local councillor and traditional head, confirmed the scale of the tragedy to international media, stating that over 200 lives are feared lost. The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has since activated an emergency response, though recovery efforts are hampered by the remote location and security concerns.

While the Nigerian Air Force initially confirmed "precision bombings" against terrorists in the region, they have remained notably silent on the mounting evidence of civilian casualties. This silence has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups like Amnesty International, which confirmed from survivors that at least 100 deaths have already been verified.

This incident is the latest in a troubling pattern of "accidental" airstrikes in Nigeria’s North-east:

December 2023: A strike in Borno killed scores of fishermen.

2024: A raid in Sokoto claimed 10 civilian lives.

April 2022: Two separate strikes in Niger State killed 14 civilians, including six minors.

Civilians Feared Dead in NAF Airstrike on Yobe Market

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

GEIDAM, NIGERIA – Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike that reportedly struck a crowded border market on Saturday evening. While the military maintains the operation successfully targeted terrorist elements, local reports suggest a devastating toll on innocent traders and bystanders.

The incident occurred at a busy commercial hub in Jilli, a suburb of Yobe State bordering Borno. The market, known for hosting cross-border traders, was at peak capacity when the bombardment began. 

While the official death toll remains unconfirmed, the humanitarian impact is already evident. Survivors with various degrees of injuries were rushed to medical facilities in Geidam. The urgency of the situation prompted Ibraheem Geidam, the councillor of Jilli ward, to issue an emotional appeal to residents, urging them to donate blood to save the lives of those caught in the blast.

Witnesses claim the military was targeting insurgents who had invaded the market to extort "levies" from local traders. However, the timing of the strike meant that civilians were directly in the line of fire.

In an official statement, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame confirmed that the Air Force conducted strikes in the Jilli axis. He characterized the mission as a "coordinated air-ground integration operation" alongside the Nigerian Army, aimed at decimating known terrorist hideouts.

"The operation was a success in neutralizing enemy positions," the statement indicated.

Notably, the military's report remained silent on the allegations of civilian casualties. As of Sunday, NAF leadership has not responded to specific inquiries regarding the reported deaths of non-combatants during the raid.

This latest incident adds to a growing and controversial history of aerial operations in Northern Nigeria. As the military battles a complex mix of insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes, the "collateral damage" of air strikes has become a recurring tragedy.

December 2023: A strike in the Mararaba area of Borno State killed numerous fishermen and drivers. The NAF has yet to take responsibility.

2024: Airstrikes targeting Lakurawa militants in Sokoto State claimed 10 civilian lives.

April 2022: Six minors were killed in Kurebe, Niger State, followed by eight more deaths in the same village four months later due to targeting errors.

Sun, Sand, and Stars: Atlantic Palm Travels Announces Monthly Beach Party in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Atlantic Palm Travels and Tours Ltd. officially announces its upcoming monthly domestic tour series. Kicking off at the iconic Suntan Beach, the event promises a curated blend of relaxation and high-energy entertainment designed to put Badagry back at the forefront of Nigerian tourism.

The initiative was unveiled by Alaketu S. Abiodun Olamide, the Founder/CEO of Atlantic Palm Travels and Tours Ltd. As a seasoned industry leader currently serving as the Secretary for the Office of the National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) Southwest Region Alaketu is on a mission to showcase Nigeria’s hidden gems to the world.

Speaking during a recent site visit to Badagry alongside international clients from Europe, Alaketu emphasized the strategic importance of the location

"This program is a monthly domestic tour designed to promote our local destinations. We are here to look at how we can enhance tourism promotions and bring more people to experience the unique beauty of Badagry."

Related:

ATPN National Vice-President Apata appoints Travel expert Alaketu as general secretary

The event is structured to offer something for everyone, transitioning from adrenaline-pumping daytime sports to soulful evening vibes. 

The shores of Sultan Beach will come alive with a variety of competitive and wellness activities, including:

Beach Sports: Volleyball, Tug of War, Sack Races, and Beach Sprints.

Wellness & Fun: On-site Face Painting and a luxurious Beach Spa offering professional massages.

The 'Limbo' Challenge: The classic "How Low Can You Go" competition.

As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts into a cozy, communal celebration featuring:

Bonfire & BBQ: Fresh grills under the starlit sky.

Karaoke & Movies: Sing your heart out or enjoy a cinematic experience right on the sand.

Beach Front Accommodation: Overnight stays for those who want to wake up to the sound of the waves.

The inaugural beach bash is scheduled for April 25th, 2026, starting from 2:00 PM and running until dawn at Sultan Beach, O2 Cabin. 

Atlantic Palm Travels has tailored the pricing to suit diverse needs, whether you are a solo backpacker, a couple, or a group of friends:

Access Only: ₦35,000

Camp Tent: ₦30,000

Single Cabin: ₦50,000

Double Cabin: ₦70,000

Beyond the monthly public event, Alaketu noted that the agency is specializing in customized group tours. Whether it is a school excursion, a corporate team-bonding session, or a private romantic getaway, Atlantic Palm Travels is equipped to personalize the Badagry experience for any client.

For bookings and inquiries:

Phone: 08170776615  

Email: [email protected]  

Instagram: @AthleticPalmTravels

Badagry 2027: Gbenu Youth Movement Backs Gbenu Joseph for LAHA

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Gbenu Youth Movement (GYM) has officially declared its unwavering support for Hon. Gbenu Henugbe Joseph in his bid for the Lagos State House of Assembly (Badagry Constituency 1). 

During the endorsement ceremony held on Friday, which saw over 50 youth leaders in attendance, the movement also threw its weight behind the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

Speaking on his motivation for joining the race, Hon. Gbenu Joseph stated that his candidacy is a direct response to a "call from the people." His tenure as the Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA serves as the foundation for this trust. His achievements include:

Education Reform: Construction of modern schools and the consistent provision of yearly scholarships and bursaries.

Infrastructure & Health: The construction of a flagship Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Apa, the Boglo PHC in Ward D Seme, and the development of modern road networks in Boglo.

Rural Electrification: The "Light Up Badagry" initiative, which distributed solar street lights across the LCDA.

Political Unification: Successfully uniting 30 previously divided party leaders, bringing unprecedented stability to the local APC leadership.

Aladeotan David, the pioneer of the Gbenu Youth Movement, emphasized that Hon. Gbenu’s professional background makes him the ideal candidate for the House of Assembly. 

"We are supporting him because we have seen his works. As a former civil servant who has served in the Court of Law, he understands the intricacies of legislation. He knows how to make laws that benefit the common man. He is a grassroots leader who truly understands our needs," David stated.

Prior to Gbenu’s administration, youth engagement in the region was described as "shabby" and dysfunctional. However, the movement noted that the Chairman has since "lifted the bar," creating empowerment structures that birthed the GYM—an organization dedicated to humanity and youth development rather than just politics.

The Gbenu Youth Movement has been evolved in social change. The group has organized high-impact Youth Summits focusing on education, economic growth, and political participation. 

Beyond advocacy, the group played a pivotal role in the APC membership drive and PVC registration exercises. While rooted in Badagry West, the movement has now expanded its reach to Olorunda LCDA and Badagry Local Government, signaling a unified front for Hon. Gbenu Joseph and the APC as the election cycle approaches.

FG Slashes Import Tariffs on Cars, Rice, and Sugar in Major 2026 Policy Shift

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA — Millions of Nigerians are set to experience significant economic relief as the Federal Government officially approves the 2026 Fiscal Policy Measures (FPM). The new framework introduces sweeping tariff reductions on essential commodities, including vehicles, palm oil, and sugar, aimed at lowering the cost of living and stimulating industrial growth.

In a circular dated April 1, 2026, signed by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the government announced that these reforms will supersede the 2023 framework. The policy shift is designed to ease the financial burden on households and provide much-needed breathing room for the manufacturing sector.

One of the most anticipated changes is the drastic reduction in duties on transportation. Under the new regime:  Passenger Vehicles: Tariffs on fully built passenger units, including SUVs and station wagons, have been slashed to 40%, down significantly from the 70% rate established in 2015.

Green Energy & Mass Transit: In a push for sustainable transport, electric vehicles (EVs), mass transit buses, and vehicles with engines below 2000cc are officially excluded from the new green tax surcharge.

Machinery & Infrastructure: To support local production, import duties on agricultural machinery, cargo ships, and railway locomotives have been reduced to 0%.

The 2026 policy takes a direct hit at food inflation by lowering the barriers for essential dietary staples. According to the national list of 127 tariff lines, several key items saw notable adjustments: Rice: Bulk rice imports now attract a 47.5% duty (down from 70%), while broken rice has been pegged at just 30%. Sugar: Tariffs on raw sugar now range between 55% and 57.5%, providing a cushion for the confectionery and beverage industries. Palm Oil: The total effective rate for crude palm oil has been set at 28.75%, a move expected to stabilize prices for cooking oil and soap production.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Federal Ministry of Finance has granted a 90-day grace period for importers who opened their Form M before April 1, allowing them to clear their goods at the old rates. 

While the tariff cuts provide immediate relief, the circular also noted that a new excise duty regime** and a **green tax surcharge are scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2026. This balanced approach seeks to foster environmental responsibility while maintaining the competitive edge of Nigerian manufacturers.

Beyond consumer goods, the 2026 FPM targets the construction and industrial sectors. Tariffs on ceramic tiles and steel products like zinc-coated sheets and rods have been adjusted to 35%, while cold-rolled steel with low carbon content is now as low as 15%. 

Industry experts believe these measures will bridge the gap created by recent global economic volatility and the lingering effects of regional conflicts, positioning Nigeria as a more attractive hub for trade and local assembly.