Category: News

Stay updated with trendbrio.com as we bring you the latest news headlines of today. Our dedicated section covers all aspects of politics news in Nigeria today, ensuring you never miss important updates. From politics today in Nigeria to Naija news updates, we provide comprehensive coverage of the latest events and developments. Explore our Naija news today and breaking stories to stay informed about the most pressing issues. Whether you’re looking for political news in Nigeria or the hot news in Nigeria, we’ve got you covered with timely and accurate information.

Media Rights Agenda Launches Practical Guide for Journalists

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago06 mins

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) on Thursday announced the publication and official launch of a comprehensive new guide titled “Leveraging Digital Tools for Journalism Practice,” aimed at equipping journalists and other media professionals with essential knowledge and tools for modern-day reporting, investigation, and storytelling. According to Ms Ayomide Eweje, MRA’s Programme Officer and author of the 164-page guide, the publication identifies and explains how to use dozens of digital tools and technologies that can enhance the work of journalists across the entire gamut of the journalistic process, from news and information gathering, to news processing as well as news and information dissemination while also giving them cutting-edge tools to protect themselves, their sources of information, their devices and other journalistic materials. She said in a statement issued in Lagos that “The publication is a necessary response to the realities of journalism in a rapidly evolving digital age. It offers practical, hands-on information for journalists about various digital tools to enable them effectively navigate today’s fast-paced digital environment, covering tools for news gathering, fact-checking, cybersecurity, multimedia storytelling, audience engagement, countering misinformation and disinformation, online harassment, and surveillance.” Ms Eweje explained that the publication is also intended to equip journalists with the tools they need not just to survive, but to lead and innovate in their profession while safeguarding their rights, protecting their sources of information, and ensuring the integrity of their work.” She noted that over the past two decades, the tools, devices and platforms used in journalism have evolved at an extraordinary pace with the traditional reporting methods, across the entire spectrum of information gathering, processing and dissemination now being augmented by an ever-increasing array of digital tools for real-time communication and collaboration, multimedia storytelling, investigative research, verification and fact-checking, among others. These tools, Ms Eweje said, have boosted the capacity of journalists to report from remote locations, tell more compelling stories, and engage directly with audiences in ways that were previously unimaginable, although at the same time, they have introduced new layers of complexity and threats, forcing journalists to pay more attention to data privacy, online harassment, platform algorithms, and digital literacy as integral parts of their work. She argued that as journalism continues to evolve, so too must the knowledge, skills, mindsets and equipment of those who practice it, and urged journalists to use the guide and other resources to build their digital capacity and leverage all available digital tools and technological devices in all aspects of their professional practice. She also called on media organisations to invest in digital literacy programmes for their journalists and, where necessary, provide them with financial resources to acquire the required facilities, since not all the tools and devices are available free of charge. In the Preface to the publication, MRA’s Executive Director, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, said: “For journalists, the digital era presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges – from the ability to report stories in real time and reach global audiences or even previously marginalised communities, to navigating constantly evolving online threats, including surveillance, online harassment and trolling, hacking and account takeovers, misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, and censorship, among others. Ms Eweje said MRA would make the guide available to media organisations and newsrooms, journalism training institutions, and media development organisations across Nigeria and the continent and also make it accessible on its website.

Tinubu to Embark on Vacation to Saint Lucia Amid Rising Insecurity at Home Starting June 28

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Nigeria on June 28, 2025, for a combination of official engagements and a private vacation in Saint Lucia, according to Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. Speaking during a pre-cabinet briefing on Monday, Pierre confirmed that June 30 and July 1 will be reserved for formal meetings with Caribbean leaders, while the rest of Tinubu’s stay will be a personal holiday. The visit is described as historic, with efforts to deepen ties between Africa and the Caribbean, especially given the shared ancestral heritage between Nigeria and many Caribbean nations. To commemorate the occasion, leaders of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)—which includes Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Saint Lucia—have been invited to participate in high-level talks. Topics expected to be discussed include economic development, education, infrastructure, and diplomatic cooperation. Tinubu’s upcoming trip comes amid widespread national mourning over the recent massacre of over 200 Nigerians in Benue State, raising public concern over the timing of his vacation. It also follows his two-week working visit to Paris in April, drawing renewed scrutiny over the president’s frequent foreign travels amid deepening domestic crises

Troops Kill Eight Terrorists in Katsina Recover Weapons

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago01 mins

Troops of the 17 Brigade under Operation Fasan Yamma have killed eight terrorists in a fierce gun battle along the Kurfi–Batsari Road in Katsina State, the Defence Headquarters confirmed on Thursday. The confrontation occurred on Wednesday near the Forward Operating Base in Kurfi, according to a statement issued by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations. Soldiers thwarted the terrorists’ planned attack, recovering five AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the operation. One soldier sustained injuries and is receiving treatment at the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, Kangye said, adding that troops’ morale remains high and the area is currently calm. The Defence Headquarters commended the troops for their bravery and assured Nigerians of the military’s continued commitment to national security.

Nigeria Introduces Real-Time Oil Export Monitoring to Curb Theft and Boost Revenue

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Nigeria’s oil regulator has announced new export regulations requiring producers to obtain an export permit, vessel clearance, and a unique identification number to enable real-time tracking of crude oil cargoes, according to documents seen by Reuters. The move is part of a broader government strategy to curb oil theft, under-declaration, and revenue leakage at export terminals, which have long plagued Africa’s largest oil producer. “The new guidelines represent a significant step toward a more transparent, accountable, and efficient oil export regime in Nigeria,” said a spokesperson for the regulator. Previously, oil producers were only required to notify customs to receive an export permit, a system experts say was vulnerable to manipulation. Under the new Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Advance Cargo Declaration Regulation, exporters must now file advance cargo details including consignee, port of destination, tonnage, and estimated time of arrival. Energy lawyer Ayodele Oni noted the changes were necessary to address systemic issues of “under-reporting, theft, revenue loss, and data mismatches” in the oil sector. The regulator warned that non-compliance could attract penalties of up to $20,000, underscoring the administration’s drive to tighten oversight and improve fiscal accountability in the petroleum industry.

Yelewata Massacre: A National Wake-Up Call for Leadership Justice and Security Reform

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago05 mins

By High Chief Hon. Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich (Egberipapa)National Leader, Simplicity Movement The recent massacre of over 200 Nigerians in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, is not just a tragedy—it is a national emergency that should shake the conscience of every Nigerian. What transpired was not merely a security lapse, but a colossal failure of foresight, coordination, and justice. We must not allow this horror to pass like so many others—forgotten and unpunished. I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving families, the people of Yelewata, and the entire Benue State. No community should ever have to endure such carnage. What we have witnessed is the erasure of entire families, the burning of homes, and the shattering of livelihoods—yet again. This massacre is part of a pattern of escalating mass violence in Nigeria that continues to go largely unpunished. It is long past time for us to rise as a people and say: Enough is enough. A Call to the President I urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to treat this moment as a historic opportunity for bold and corrective action. Nigerians are not only asking for empathy—they are demanding decisive leadership that transforms our security architecture from reactive to proactive, from opaque to accountable. The recent admission by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, that some personnel have allegedly leaked classified intelligence to terrorists is deeply troubling. While courageous, this confession demands an immediate institutional response—not silence. Even more alarming are viral videos circulating on social media showing helicopters with police markings allegedly delivering supplies to terrorists and uniformed men fraternizing with armed groups. While these clips await official verification, the continued lack of transparency or investigation only deepens public distrust. Six Urgent Recommendations for the President 1. Establish an Independent Judicial Inquiry into the Yelewata MassacreLet a credible, transparent panel of jurists, security experts, and civil society members investigate the Yelewata killings and other attacks. The findings must be made public and followed by swift action. 2. Audit and Reform the Intelligence CommunityWe need a comprehensive audit of our intelligence system. Preventing terror must start with accurate, actionable intelligence—driven by technology and local collaboration. 3. Cleanse and Reposition the Armed Forces and PoliceWhile we honor the sacrifices of our uniformed forces, saboteurs must be removed. Ethical training, command accountability, and anti-corruption enforcement are urgent. 4. Empower Communities with Early Warning and Local Security NetworksCommunity leaders should be empowered with direct communication lines to security commands. Community policing, local vigilante support, and whistleblower protections should be formalized. 5. Establish a Federal Victim Support and Restoration FundYelewata and similar communities must receive trauma care, housing, agricultural support, and sustainable rebuilding. This is not a handout—it is justice and reintegration. 6. Rebuild Public Trust Through TransparencyInitiate regular national security briefings to inform the public. Nigerians need clarity—not rumors. Trust is built through truth, and transparency is the beginning of healing.

When Mourning Becomes a Carnival a Nation Loses Its Soul – Peter Obi

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

In the wake of the senseless killings of over 200 innocent Nigerians in Benue State, and devastating floods in Niger State that claimed a similar number of lives, many Nigerians pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to visit the affected communities—not with pomp, but with compassion and solemnity. But the President’s recent visit to Benue has drawn widespread criticism for its tone-deaf execution, more akin to a political rally than a condolence mission. Instead of a somber and reflective presence, the President arrived in celebratory agbada, as if attending a commissioning ceremony, not a region reeling from mass death. The state government declared a public holiday, not for mourning, but seemingly to organize fanfare. Schools were shut down, and children who lost classmates and loved ones were lined up in the rain to perform songs and dances for a presidential audience. This rehearsed pageantry in the face of tragedy has sparked outrage. “Condolence visits have become carnivals,” one commentator lamented. “We are not at war, yet our nation is bleeding—and we are clapping.” Critics argue that resources expended on optics—banners, music, security logistics—could have been used to provide relief supplies, trauma counselling, and medical support for grieving communities. Citing examples from abroad, critics point out how President Ramaphosa of South Africa and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India have responded to similar crises with dignity and direct action, not staged crowds and celebration. “These were human beings—children, mothers, fathers—whose blood cries out for justice,” the statement continues. “We must ask: what kind of people have we become, when grief is met with spectacle?” As Nigeria continues to grapple with growing insecurity and environmental disasters, there are growing calls for empathy-based leadership, one that puts people before politics.

Iran Denies Seeking White House Meeting With Trump

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Tehran, Iran — The Iranian government has dismissed recent claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that Tehran sought a meeting at the White House during his administration. In a statement issued on Monday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry labeled the allegation as “baseless and self-aggrandizing,” insisting that at no point did Iranian officials request a direct meeting with Trump or seek to visit the White House. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has never pursued or requested a meeting with former President Trump. Any suggestion otherwise is a fabrication aimed at domestic political gain,” the ministry stated. Trump had claimed over the weekend that Iranian leaders were eager for talks and had reached out for a possible meeting at the White House, suggesting it was evidence of his administration’s strength. The rejection comes amid renewed diplomatic and military tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly in light of escalating confrontations across the Middle East.

National Assembly Sends Landmark Tax Reform Bills to Tinubu for Assent

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria — In a major step toward reshaping Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, the National Assembly has formally transmitted four groundbreaking tax reform bills to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for presidential assent. The move signals a pivotal phase in the actualisation of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope economic agenda, which prioritises revenue efficiency and fiscal federalism. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, confirmed the transmission, stating that the harmonisation process between the Senate and the House of Representatives had been concluded. “Yes, the bill has now been transmitted. It is out of our hands and on its way to the executive,” Adaramodu said. The legislative package comprises: Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill Nigeria Tax Administration BillNigeria Tax Bill These bills aim to modernise tax administration, broaden the national tax base, and enhance inter-governmental coordination on revenue collection. Originally submitted in November 2024, the bills underwent rigorous legislative review, revisions, and negotiations before gaining the approval of both chambers of the National Assembly. Senator Adaramodu stressed that the detailed scrutiny was necessary to ensure alignment with existing statutes and to address legal and structural gaps. “Tax legislation of this magnitude requires detailed examination. Our legal departments had to ensure alignment with existing laws. It’s not something that happens in two or three days,” he explained. Following the final harmonisation, the documents were duly signed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas before being forwarded to the Presidency. Akpabio last week credited the passage of the bills to “national interest, inclusive legislative engagement, and strategic leadership.” Compromise on VAT ClauseOne of the most debated aspects of the reform was an initial proposal allowing tax-generating states to retain 60% of Value Added Tax (VAT). The clause drew strong opposition—particularly from lawmakers representing northern states—who feared it would widen economic disparities. A compromise was eventually reached, lowering the retention rate to 30% and replacing the term “derivation” with the more neutral “place of consumption.” Despite opposition from some state governors and internal rifts within the legislature, the final versions of the bills gained cross-party support. Akpabio praised state governors for embracing the revised framework in the “spirit of unity.” “We must commend the courage of our governors who, despite initial resistance, accepted the revised framework,” he said, also applauding Speaker Abbas for rallying support among younger lawmakers. If signed into law, the legislation will usher in one of the most comprehensive overhauls of Nigeria’s tax and revenue system in decades—streamlining oversight, curbing leakages, and reinforcing fiscal discipline at all levels of government.