Nigeria News (Standard)
Katsina Airport: Federal Government Arrests Seven Boko Haram, ISWAP Commanders Returning From Hajj
Interior Minister credits NIN verification system for high-profile arrests; DSS begins investigation into suspects’ travel history
Interior Minister credits NIN verification system for high-profile arrests; DSS begins investigation into suspects’ travel history
Seven suspected commanders of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) were arrested by federal authorities at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina State on Thursday, after returning from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The arrests were made possible through Nigeria’s integrated National Identification Number (NIN) verification system, according to Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The minister revealed that the suspects were flagged immediately upon arrival at the airport, following a cross-check of their details with national and international security watchlists linked to the NIN database. Security operatives promptly handed over all seven individuals to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation. Tunji-Ojo stated, “I’m happy to tell you that even last week, Thursday, seven of the known commanders of Boko Haram and ISWAP at the point of coming back from Mecca were arrested in Katsina Airport and were handed over to the DSS.”
The development comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to strengthen border security and digital identity management, especially following President Bola Tinubu’s recent signing of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law. The Act is expected to deepen biometric verification for public service delivery and immigration management. Government has described this incident as one of the first major successes for its integrated approach to combating terrorism and criminal movement across borders.
Explaining how the system works, Tunji-Ojo said Nigeria’s NIN database is now fully linked with the Nigeria Immigration Service, INTERPOL and other international intelligence platforms—enabling security agencies to instantly flag individuals on watchlists attempting to enter or leave through official border posts. “The NIN has become more than just an identity number. It is now a major security tool that helps us identify and intercept persons of interest,” he said during a briefing following Tinubu’s assent to the NIMC Act.
Despite these successes, questions remain about how individuals designated as Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders were able to obtain travel documents and depart Nigeria undetected before their eventual interception on return. The minister did not provide details on whether the suspects travelled independently or under sponsorship, nor did he disclose their identities. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment as at press time.
Security analysts have welcomed the arrests but say they highlight persistent gaps in document vetting and border controls prior to departure. Government maintains that improving identity management remains central to its wider strategy against terrorism, organised crime and cross-border threats across all zones.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Security Guard Returns $9,100 Lost at FCMB Branch, Sparks Nationwide Debate
Proton Security pledges civic honour for staff as Nigerians split over act of honesty amid harsh economy
Proton Security pledges civic honour for staff as Nigerians split over act of honesty amid harsh economy
A security guard, Adebanjo Samuel, working with Proton Security Service Limited at a First City Monument Bank (FCMB) branch in Marina, Lagos, has returned $9,100 (about ₦12 million) found on duty on 25 May 2026. The incident has ignited widespread reactions across Nigeria, with many citizens debating whether Samuel’s decision to return the money was wise given current economic hardships.
According to Proton Security, Samuel discovered the foreign currency within the banking premises and immediately ensured it was handed back to its rightful owner. The company described his action as an exceptional display of integrity and announced plans to reward him with a civic reception in recognition of his honesty.
The development comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation and naira depreciation. Many have taken to social media to either commend or criticise Samuel’s choice. Some users questioned why he did not keep the money, arguing it could have transformed his life. Others defended his conduct as a much-needed example of personal integrity despite widespread hardship.
Speaking on the matter, Adebanjo Samuel said his decision was guided by principle rather than monetary value. “It is not about the amount; it is about the principle. I was raised to be truthful and to do what is right irrespective of the circumstances. Even if the money had been much more, I would still have returned it. Integrity is something I believe should never be compromised,” he stated.
Managing Director of Proton Security Service Limited, Odebunmi Adekunmi, lauded Samuel’s behaviour, saying: “This act of honesty reflects the principles upon which our organisation was built and the standards we expect from every member of our workforce.” Despite such praise, debate persists online. One user wrote: ‘Money that could have changed your life from security guard to something else. Such a BIG FOOL.’ Another commented: ‘Na poverty go kill am.’ Conversely, some users urged that good name outweighs riches: ‘Good name is more than gold or silver. Kudos to him for choosing integrity and honesty over anything else.’
As discussions continue nationwide, Proton Security has maintained that acts like Samuel’s set a benchmark for ethical conduct in Nigeria’s workforce and deserve formal recognition.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nollywood Star Uche Jombo Marks 25 Years, Expands Film Legacy with New Productions
Jombo’s journey from Abia State debut to Netflix and cinema releases cements her as a leading figure in Nigerian film industry
Jombo’s journey from Abia State debut to Netflix and cinema releases cements her as a leading figure in Nigerian film industry
Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Uche Jombo, has marked over 25 years in the Nigerian film industry, solidifying her reputation as one of the most recognisable faces in Nollywood. The Abia State-born star made her acting debut in 1999 with the film ‘Visa to Hell’ and has since featured in more than 250 productions.
Jombo’s impact goes beyond acting—she launched Uche Jombo Studios in 2008, moving into production and later directing by 2015. Her portfolio includes acclaimed films such as ‘Games Men Play’, ‘Lies Men Tell’, ‘Holding Hope’ and ‘Damage’, the latter of which tackled domestic violence, sparking discussions on social issues within Nigeria.
Her recent work has continued to resonate across generations. Jombo appeared in Netflix’s ‘Blood Sisters 2’ and featured in the cinema release ‘On Different Grounds’, demonstrating her ability to adapt to evolving audience tastes and digital platforms. According to industry observers, this versatility is a testament to her staying power amid a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
Jombo’s long-standing presence is viewed by many stakeholders as pivotal for Nollywood’s growth. Film critics point out that her transition from actress to producer and director has inspired younger talents while raising standards for storytelling within the sector. “Uche Jombo represents the bridge between Nollywood’s past and its future,” one analyst noted.
With more projects reportedly in development at Uche Jombo Studios, industry watchers expect her influence on Nigerian cinema to persist. As at June 2026, she remains a driving force shaping narratives both on screen and behind the scenes.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/uche-jombo-between-image-and-identity/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta Police Recover Pistol Hidden in Bread, Arrest Suspect in Warri
Police say suspect tried to evade security checks by concealing weapon inside loaf; investigation ongoing
Police say suspect tried to evade security checks by concealing weapon inside loaf; investigation ongoing
Police operatives in Warri, Delta State, have recovered a locally made pistol hidden inside a loaf of bread and arrested one suspect in connection with the incident. The recovery was made on Saturday, 27 June, during a routine stop-and-search operation within the city.
According to police sources, officers on patrol noticed suspicious behaviour from the suspect and decided to conduct a search. During the inspection, they discovered the pistol wrapped and concealed inside a regular loaf of bread. The suspect was immediately taken into custody for further questioning.
The discovery highlights growing concerns about innovative tactics used by individuals to evade law enforcement checks in Delta State and other parts of the South-South zone. Security agencies have recently intensified surveillance following reports of increased arms trafficking and related crimes in the region.
A police spokesperson confirmed the arrest but declined to release the suspect’s name pending completion of preliminary investigations. “Our officers remain vigilant and will continue to act on intelligence to prevent criminal activities in Delta State,” the spokesperson said during a phone interview.
The police command has urged residents to report any suspicious activity and assured that efforts are ongoing to trace the source of the firearm and determine if others are involved. Authorities say the suspect will be charged once investigations are concluded.
