National News
Moscow Concert Hall Attack: Fani-Kayode, Pantami Say Russia is Not Alone

Moscow Concert Hall Attack: Fani-Kayode, Pantami Say Russia is Not Alone
By: Michael Mike
As the Russian Republic continues to mourn the killing of its citizens in an attack on Moscow concert hall, some prominent Nigerians including a former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode and the immediate past Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami paid a condolence visit on Russian Embassy in Nigeria with a message that the European country is not alone.
With Fani-Kayode and Pantami on the visit were a former Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Senator Basheer Mohammed; Senator Mohammed Hassan who represented Yobe South Senatorial District, a former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon Farouk Aliyu, and the Campaign Spokesperson for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the Eastern part of the country during the 2023 presidential election, Joseph Onoh.
In his remarks, Fani-Kayode expressed condolences to the Russian Federation over the attack, assuring the Russian Federation envoy, Alexey Shebarshin, that Russian is not alone in its difficult moments.
Fani-Kayode said: “It saddens our hearts that such a terrible thing could have happened at this time in our history in your country.
“As you said earlier, we suffer from similar atrocities here in the recent past. And we join our faith with you and we also reach out to you with our hearts to commiserate with you and express our condolences on behalf of millions of Nigerian people and we stand with you from beginning to end; we acknowledge the critical role that you have played in the development of our country in terms of collaboration and we need to do far more.
“We want you to be rest assured that at this difficult time and indeed, over the months and years, Russia is not alone and has not been alone. You have many, many friends here in Nigeria. As you can see, people that came here today are not just ordinary people; these are people of high calibre and they represent millions of others and we thought it was appropriate to come and express our solidarity with you.
“We believe strongly that those that were behind this, those we know already that the Russian security services have so quickly brought to book and have caught outside of those ones that have been caught, we believe strongly that we have every faith in your system that you will get to the bottom of it and know those who were really behind it.”
Fani-Kayode further told the Russian envoy that it was not just those that the Russian Federation sees that it has to respond to and brings to justice, but even those that were behind the attack needed to be identified and opposed.
He said: “And in that quest, in the advocacy of that position, we stand with you 100 percent. Not just Nigeria, if you look around the African continent, you have many, many friends and I am proud to say that I am a friend of Russia and all of us seated here, friends of Russia, we stand with you at this difficult time.
“May the souls of those who passed, rest in peace. And may God bless the President of Russia, may God bless Russia, may God be with us all,” Fani-Kayode said.
Also speaking, Pantami conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the delegation to the President and good people of Russia over the tragedy.
He said: “We stand by you, we stand by humanity, we stand always for peace, we stand for justice and we do hope that this is the last calamity that will happen in the country and we will continue to pray for your country, for our country and also for peace, stability and prosperity all over the world.
“What happened is condemnable. No any responsible person irrespective of religion, tribe or geographical location will support it. It is a clear indication of humans’ inhumanity to humans and it stands condemnable. And we will continue to be with you to support you, to encourage you to overcome the challenge and we have witnessed so many support of Russia in Nigeria and in other African countries. Your country remains a good friend of Nigeria and other African countries. So, whatever happens to you, it happens to us as whatever happens to us also happens to you.
“Once again, accept our heartfelt condolences and we will continue to pray for you and wish you all the best,” Pantami said.
Speaking earlier, Shebarshin said the attack was the will of God, saying “it happened to us, it happened to you before as many places which have been joined.”
Shebarshin expressed the appreciation of the Russian Federation to its Nigerian friends, particularly President Bola Tinubu; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar and other government officials who expressed condolences over the unfortunate development.
He however said Russia would overcome this.
Moscow Concert Hall Attack: Fani-Kayode, Pantami Say Russia is Not Alone
National News
NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June

NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June
By: Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has decried the rising incident of human rights violation in the country, stating that last alone over 320,000 cases were reported across the country.
Speaking during the presentation of June 2025 Human Rights Situation Dashboard in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu said: “In the month of June, we received 327,154 complaints reflecting another sharp increase in human rights violations, each one a desperate plea for justice and a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done.”
He lamented that: “Every month, when we gather to present this human rights dashboard, we are confronted with a sobering reality of the lived realities of those affected by violence, injustice, discrimination, and systemic neglect. These numbers compel us to reflect deeply on our collective responsibility and ask ourselves the difficult question: Are we doing enough? The events of June 2025 demand not just reflection, but an honest and urgent response.”
He said: “Last month, Nigeria witnessed a harrowing surge in violent attacks, with devastating consequences for affected communities and our national conscience. Among the most tragic incidents were the brutal assaults on the Yelewata and Dauda communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 200 innocent lives were lost. These were not mere figures on a report; they were fathers, mothers, children, and breadwinners; families torn apart, livelihoods destroyed, and futures extinguished in moments of senseless brutality.
“Equally alarming is the rising trend of attacks against law enforcement and local security forces. In Kaduna and Niger States, more than 17 soldiers were killed in coordinated attacks, further destabilizing already fragile regions. Equally distressing was the massacre of over 40 members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Ruggar Chida, brave individuals who stood on the frontlines to protect their communities, only to pay the ultimate price.
“Their deaths leave a void in local security structures, rendering civilians even more exposed to further violence.”
Ojukwu noted that: “The wave of insecurity plaguing our highways has also intensified. In June alone, more than 50 travellers were abducted along major transit routes in Kogi and Benue States. These are not isolated criminal acts; they represent a direct assault on the fundamental rights to freedom of movement, economic participation, and personal dignity. These abductions inflicts lasting trauma on victims and their families while further eroding public trust in the safety of our roads. This pattern of violence marked by impunity, fear, and systemic failure highlights a grave deficit in protection and accountability.”
He added that: “In the month of June, we received 327,154 complaints reflecting another sharp increase in human rights violations, each one a desperate plea for justice and a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done.
“To the government, we reiterate the need for decisive and coordinated security interventions. To civil society and the media, we urge sustained advocacy and amplification of these issues. To our development partners, we call for strengthened collaboration in addressing the root causes of these issues. This dashboard must not merely serve as a record of tragedies; it must be a catalyst for meaningful and sustainable change.
“Let us never forget; every complaint documented, every statistic recorded in these dashboards represents a Nigerian citizen, a fellow human being seeking justice, safety, and the fulfilment of their basic rights.
“The National Human Rights Commission remains unwavering in its mandate to promote, protect, and enforce human rights across Nigeria. We will forge ahead with purposeful and sustained action.”
NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June
National News
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas

Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
By:Michael Mike
The federal government has granted five months amnesty for regularisation of expired visas to allow travellers comply with the new visa regime.
A statement at the weekend by the public relations officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Akinsola Akinlabi said the amnesty would also reinforce a secure and transparent migration system.
The statement read: “The federal government through the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service, announces an Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty).
“This initiative provides a unique window for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired immigration status to regularize their stay without facing penalties.”
He disclosed in the statement that the initiative, which commenced on 1st May 2025, would run through to 30th September 2025.
He further announced that the amnesty specifically apply to individuals who have either overstayed their visas or violated their visa conditions.
He gave the categories of those affected as: Foreign nationals with Expired Visa on Arrival (VoA); Holders of Expired Single and Multiple-Entry Visas and; Individuals with an Expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal has exceeded 30 days post-expiration.
Akinlabi urged all affected foreign nationals to promptly regularize their stay through
(https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng) within the grace period to avoid overstay penalties.
He said, “To ensure the Amnesty application process is seamless, the Nigeria Immigration Service has assembled a support team to assist with Amnesty applications. Contact the support team via email at:amnesty@immigration.gov.ng
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to facilitating lawful migration, safeguarding National Security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes.
“For further information kindly visit the Nigeria Immigration website www.immigration.gov.ng.”
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
National News
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration

Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
By: Zagazola Makama
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Army for its unflinching commitment to national unity, security, and sovereignty over the past 162 years, describing it as the “spine of Nigeria’s sovereignty” and a “symbol of unity and duty.”
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Sunday at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held in Kaduna.

The President said the anniversary was not merely a ceremonial occasion, but a moment of solemn reflection, history, and collective gratitude to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.
“This is not another entry in our calendar of commemorations. It is a time of reflection, a time of remembrance, and a time of profound appreciation,” he said.
“A nation is only as strong as the courage of those who defend it. And for 162 years, the Nigerian Army has remained the unbreakable spine of our sovereignty.”

The President recalled the Army’s historic role in bringing the Nigerian Civil War to an end, upholding the principle of national unity, quoting former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s immortal words: “No victor, no vanquished.”
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has continued to carry the national flag high, not for conquest but for peace, and not for power but for principle — both at home and in global peacekeeping missions.
“We honour the enduring sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service, and those who continue to bear the uniform with pride and resolve. You are the sentinels of our democracy,” Tinubu said.
He expressed full support for this year’s theme, “Developing the Soldier-Based Concept: A Priority for Nigerian Army’s Transformational Drive,” describing it as visionary and timely.
“You cannot build a great army without building strong soldiers. Their welfare, morale, equipment and sense of purpose are not afterthoughts; they are the bedrock of national security,” he said.

The President praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for prioritising the welfare of troops and placing the soldier at the heart of institutional reform.
Tinubu acknowledged the numerous security challenges confronting the country, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations, which he described as existential threats that demand a united and resolute response.
“These evils do not discriminate by tribe or religion. They destroy churches and mosques alike. They abduct children without asking how they worship,” he said.
“Our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. And to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this clearly: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.”
The President paid tribute to fallen soldiers, some of whom now lie in the soil of a grateful nation, and others who carry the wounds of battle.
“To the families they left behind, I extend the deepest sympathies of a nation that will never forget. Their memory will endure for generations,” he said.
He urged serving personnel to continue in honour, guided by the Constitution and the principles of international law, saying their courage must remain anchored in justice.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, training, and operational capability of the Armed Forces.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment, in intelligence, and in the human capital that drives your effectiveness. This is not a favour; it is a duty owed to those who defend us,” he said.
He further commended the Armed Forces’ synergy, especially with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, in tackling complex national threats.
Tinubu reminded all Nigerians that securing the country is not the burden of the military alone, but the responsibility of every citizen.
“We have no other country but Nigeria, and we must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Nation-building is the work of every leader, every institution, and every citizen,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu saluted all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, past and present, describing them as “the guardians of our nationhood and the shield of our democracy.”
“Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
-
News1 year ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
Opinions4 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
News1 year ago
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Columns1 year ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
ACADEMICS1 year ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Opinions1 year ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
Politics4 weeks ago
2027: Why Hon. Midala Balami Must Go, as Youths in Hawul and Asikira/Uba Federal Constituency Reject ₦500,000 as Sallah Gift