The announcement was made on Saturday through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, who described the development as a tragic loss to Katsina State and Nigeria.

Daily Dates Nigeria reports tha the retired military officer died while in captivity after suffering health complications.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the commissioner stated.

Dr. Mu’azu explained that despite sustained efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure the retired officer’s freedom, the rescue mission ended unsuccessfully.

The commissioner further stated that Major General Abubakar died from complications associated with diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.

He said the retired military officer’s abduction and eventual death represent not only a painful loss to his family and Katsina State but also a significant loss to the nation.

Major General Rabe Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife while travelling through the Matazu axis of Katsina State in late May. Reports at the time indicated that security agencies had launched coordinated operations aimed at securing their release.

Before news of his death emerged, the Katsina State Government had expressed optimism that ongoing operations would lead to the safe return of the retired military officer and other abductees.

The late Major General Abubakar served as Director of Defence Information and was known for his role in communicating military operations and national security issues during his years of service.

The Katsina State Government extended condolences to the family and reiterated its commitment to intensifying efforts against banditry and protecting lives and property across the state.

The post Breaking: Abducted Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Reportedly Dies appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The assurance was conveyed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume CON, on Sunday during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

The Democracy Day Service which has the theme, “God of hope, actualise our dreams,” was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker House of Representatives,Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Minister of Foreign Affairs; Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation; Mrs, Didi Walson-Jack.

Akume, who delivered President Tinubu’s message, congratulated Nigerians on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic rule since 1999, describing the milestone as a testament to the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.

He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and even death in the quest to secure democratic governance for the country.

The SGF said the President remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and would “double his efforts” to ensure that the socio-economic difficulties currently confronting Nigerians are substantially reduced through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.

Acknowledging the hardship facing many households, Senator Akume said the government was fully aware of the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting several communities across the country.

“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that Tinubu was leading efforts to address the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.

On security, the SGF stressed that the safety of Nigerians remains a top priority of the Federal Government, describing recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.

He assured citizens that the safe return of all persons in captivity remains a national priority, noting that security agencies and relevant institutions are being supported with the necessary resources to protect lives, secure communities and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.

With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gathering momentum, the SGF urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy must never be reduced to a battleground.

He particularly appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used for thuggery, political violence, misinformation campaigns, ethnic abuse or religious intolerance.

“Do not rent out your conscience for money, drugs, political patronage or online applause. Your future is worth more than any politician’s temporary convenience,” he said.

The SGF also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct as the nation moves toward another election cycle.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony and peaceful engagement with the international community, insisting that despite existing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.

He applauded members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation and sustaining democratic rule.

He urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of June 12 heroes by working towards a nation where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and every citizen can live with dignity.

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According to a memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named.

Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr. Taiwo Oyedele who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry.

Also Mr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD .) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Housing and Urban Development Ministry.

The memo also directed Dangiwa to hand over to the Minister of State in the ministry.

The memo stated that “all handing over and taking over processes should be completed on or before close of business on Thursday 23rd April, 2026.”

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga explained that the President’s decision, Akume said: “These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He said the President, in approving the cabinet reshuffle, has fully exercised his powers as conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).

The President thanked the outgoing ministers for their services to the nation while wishing them the best in all their future endeavours.

The President, Akume noted, equally assured all cabinet members that “the process of reinvigoration shall be continuous.”

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The directive is pursuant to the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, which was issued by the Permanent Secretary General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees who wish to participate in the forthcoming party primaries or seek nomination for any elective office, which include the following: Honourable Ministers, Honourable Ministers of State, Special Advisers to the President, Senior Special Assistants to the President, Special Assistants the President, Personal Assistants to the President, All Directors-General, and Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government Parastatals, Agencies, Commissions, and Government-owned Companies, as well as all Other Political Appointees of the President.

Accordingly, all affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation not later than March 31, 2026.

President Tinubu emphasised that the measure is necessary to ensure full compliance with electoral laws, uphold transparency in the political process, and promote a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.

He urged all concerned officials to take note of this directive and ensure strict compliance, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria.

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Oyedele replaces Dr. Doris Anite-Uzoka, who has been redeployed to the Ministry of Budget and National Planning as Minister of State, marking her third ministerial portfolio in the current administration.

Prior to his appointment, Oyedele served as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, where he led a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system.

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In a statement signed on Monday by Director Information in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, the Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments/Parastatals have been directed to include mandatory drug testing as a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel.

“In addition , MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the conduct of the tests, in line with established standards and procedures.

“The directive, which was contained in a service-wide circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-Ministerial Departments is in line with the determination of the present Administration to decisively tackle this menace of drug and substance abuse, and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices.

“The directive on the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing to prospective applicants is premised on the concern raised by the Federal Government on the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among the teeming youth in the country, with a disturbing trend and far-reaching implications for public health, socio-economic development, workplace productivity, and national security.

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General Olufemi Oluyede is appointed Chief of Defence Staff, Major-General W. Shaibu becomes Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff, while Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

The President in a personal message posted on his social media X (formerly Twitter) page wrote: I thank General Christopher Musa and the outgoing Service Chiefs for their selfless service and dedicated leadership, and I charge the new Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour.

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A critical look at Nigeria’s current political and administrative landscape reveals that Christians have never been more represented in governance. From the presidency to state governments and the legislature, Christian leaders occupy key offices that shape the nation’s direction. Nigeria has produced Christian Presidents, Vice Presidents, Senate Presidents, and Governors across several states. This reality challenges the idea of a systemic anti-Christian conspiracy or an orchestrated “genocide” agenda.

Across Nigeria, Christian influence remains strong and visible. In almost every street, there are at least two denominational churches—except perhaps in gated estates that may have one central worship center. Most government establishments also have two chapels: one for Catholics and another for Pentecostal or Protestant congregations. This structure underscores the degree of religious freedom Christians already enjoy across the nation.

The inclusiveness is even more evident within the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is an Assistant Pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God—a devoted Christian who has consistently used her office to promote unity, compassion, and faith. She has opened the Villa to Christian leaders more than any First Lady in recent history. Her charitable gestures—ranging from material to financial donations—have been remarkable, all aimed at assuring Nigerians that her husband’s administration is for all citizens regardless of religion.

The Villa’s Chaplain, Rt. Revd. (Dr.) Steven Adegbite, is not just a spiritual leader but also serves as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC). His dual role grants him direct access to both the Villa and national leadership. If there truly were an organized attempt at “Christian genocide,” as some claim, he would be in the best position to raise the alarm directly to the President. The absence of such evidence speaks volumes.

This brings us to a crucial question: why is CAN advancing this narrative now?
While insecurity affects people of all faiths—Muslims, Christians, and others alike—isolating these national challenges as “Christian-only” issues risks politicizing national pain and dividing communities. There are growing concerns that certain leaders within CAN’s hierarchy may be positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections, using the rhetoric of persecution to attract sympathy and political leverage.

This is a dangerous and unspiritual path. As Scripture reminds us, “You cannot serve both God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24). The Church must not become a pawn in partisan politics. It must remain a moral compass, not a megaphone for manipulation.

At this critical juncture, it is also important to highlight the role of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC)—an institution designed precisely to address issues of religious tension and misunderstanding.
NIREC is a voluntary association made up of sixty (60) members: thirty (30) Christians and thirty (30) Muslims. It was originally formed on the 11th of September, 1999, with fifty (50) members—twenty-five from each faith—but was reviewed in March 2019 to include more women and youth. The establishment of NIREC was driven by the need to respond to incessant ethno-religious crises that punctuated Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

NIREC serves as a permanent and independent body that provides religious leaders and traditional rulers with a credible platform for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding. It lays the foundation for sustainable peace, religious harmony, and social cohesion in the country. As such, NIREC has a major role to play in deliberating and stating the true state of religious affairs in Nigeria. Its position—grounded in inclusivity, representation, and mutual respect—should serve as a reference point in discerning truth from politically motivated narratives.

In view of this, CAN must work hand-in-hand with NIREC and other interfaith institutions to promote national unity, not deepen division. The association’s strength should be used to build bridges, not to stoke suspicion or fear.

Nigeria’s Christian community has thrived despite challenges, and its leaders have continuously shaped the nation’s destiny. The right response now is not to amplify fear, but to strengthen faith, uphold truth, and champion peace.

The Church in Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope and moral authority. But to preserve that moral capital, its leaders must separate faith from politics, conviction from ambition, and truth from propaganda.

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Ahmed al-Rahawi was killed in a Thursday strike in Sanaa along with a number of ministers, the Houthis said in a statement on Saturday.

Al-Rahawi, who served as prime minister in areas of the divided country that the group controls, was targeted along with other members of the Houthi-led government during a workshop, the statement said.

The Houthis said “several” other ministers were also killed in the Israeli attack, without offering more details.

The Israeli attack on Sanaa came as tensions in the region continue to escalate amid Israel’s war on Gaza.

The post Israel Kills Yemen’s Prime Minister, Alongside Several Cabinet Members appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Reacting to Mustapha’s comments, Farouk on Channel TV said the former SGF was not part of the inner circle or political process that led to Buhari’s historic win and therefore lacked the authority or context to speak on Tinubu’s contribution.

“Boss Mustapha was nowhere to be found when we were building the political alliance that made President Buhari’s victory possible. He cannot tell the story because he was not there,” Farouk stated.

He defended Tinubu’s efforts, saying the former Lagos State Governor played a critical role in galvanizing support, resources, and political strategy that helped Buhari cross the threshold from perennial candidate to elected president in 2015.

“Those of us who were involved know how much Tinubu sacrificed — from mobilizing the South-West to forging the APC alliance. Without that support, Buhari may not have made it,” he added.

Farouk also warned that such statements by Mustapha could further deepen divisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at a time when unity is needed the most.

“This is not the division that we need right now. The country is facing serious challenges, and instead of stirring controversy, we should be focused on building trust, not breaking it.”

The comments come amid growing political tension within the APC, as several northern figures and former Buhari loyalists have expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration.

Boss Mustapha had earlier dismissed Tinubu’s claim of “making Buhari president,” at a book launch insisting that Buhari had already built a massive 12 million  political following long before the APC merger.

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