Sunday Recap: Niger State Pupils Freed, AFCON 2025, Indomie Recall, Nigeria-US $5.1bn Partnership +More

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Here are the top stories curated for you today:

Morocco Open Campaign On High Note Amid Pressure As AFCON Hosts

Morocco opened the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 win over Comoros on Sunday. The hosts had come under immense pressure as hosts, with Achraf Hakimi returning from injury to lead the Atlas Lions. Ranked 11th globally, Morocco face stiff competition from Senegal, the Ivory Coast, Egypt, and Nigeria, who are determined to redeem themselves after missing World Cup qualification.

The tournament, running until 18 January, is staged across world‑class stadiums in Rabat, Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir, and Fez, as Morocco builds momentum towards co‑hosting the 2030 World Cup.

Coach Walid Regragui admitted that anything short of victory would be deemed failure, given Morocco’s record 18 consecutive wins and the weight of expectation. CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed the Cup of Nations will shift to a four‑year cycle after 2028, adding further significance to this edition. Nigeria, runners‑up last year, are among the favourites, with Victor Osimhen leading their charge to continental glory.

Nigerian Presidency Confirms Release Of 130 Abducted Niger State Schoolchildren

The Nigerian Presidency confirmed the release of 130 schoolchildren kidnapped from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, Niger State. The abduction, which involved over 300 pupils and staff, was one of the largest in recent years and drew global outrage.

The Federal Government imposed a 24‑hour security cordon, launched aerial surveillance, and ordered school closures across high‑risk regions, while President Tinubu cancelled international travel to address the crisis. The release follows earlier rescues of 100 pupils, with Governor Umaru Bago receiving them in Minna.

The incident came days after a similar abduction in Kebbi State, underscoring Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. International pressure mounted after US President Donald Trump threatened military action, declaring Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged killings of Christians. The Presidency’s announcement of the children’s freedom was accompanied by images of smiling pupils, offering relief after weeks of tension.

Troops, Vigilantes, Hunters Kill 17 Terrorists In Borno

Nigerian troops of Operation Hadin Kai, supported by vigilantes and hunters, ambushed insurgents transporting logistics near Sojiri and Kayamla villages in Borno. Acting on credible intelligence, the forces neutralised 17 suspected terrorists in the early hours of 21 December, recovering weapons, bicycles, food, drugs, and clothing.

The operation highlights the effectiveness of intelligence‑driven, joint security efforts in degrading terrorist networks and disrupting supply chains. It underscores the military’s renewed vigour in tackling ISWAP and Boko Haram elements, reassuring citizens of continued progress in the fight against insurgency.

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NAFDAC Alerts Nigerians On Product Withdrawal Over Undeclared Allergens

NAFDAC issued a public alert on the recall of Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles due to undeclared allergens. Although the product is not currently sold in Nigeria, the agency intensified surveillance nationwide to prevent its entry, directing zonal coordinators to seize any found stock.

Professor Mojisola Adeyeye stressed that noodles are already on Nigeria’s Import Prohibition List, reducing the likelihood of circulation. Ports inspection has been heightened, and consumers are urged to discard any recalled packs and report suspected sales. The move reflects NAFDAC’s proactive stance on food safety.

Nigerian, American Govts Sign $5.1bn Agreement To Strengthen Healthcare

Nigeria and the United States have signed a landmark five‑year, $5.1 billion health cooperation agreement under the America First Global Health Strategy. The deal commits $2.1 billion in US health assistance alongside $3 billion in Nigerian domestic spending, making it the largest co‑investment yet under the initiative.

It aims to strengthen Nigeria’s health systems, expand access to affordable services, and improve outcomes in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, polio, and maternal and child health. The MOU places special emphasis on Christian faith‑based healthcare providers, which serve over 30 per cent of Nigeria’s population, with $200 million dedicated to supporting their facilities.

The agreement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to national health ownership while reflecting US expectations of progress in tackling religiously motivated violence. It also highlights the role of faith‑based institutions in complementing public health infrastructure, reinforcing resilience against outbreaks and systemic challenges.

FCCPC Cautions Transporters Over Fare Hikes, Exploitation

The FCCPC warned inter‑city transport operators against arbitrary fare increases during the festive season. The Commission acknowledged seasonal demand and operational costs but insisted consumers deserve clear, accurate, and timely information on fares.

Executive Vice Chairman Tunji Bello said unexplained hikes, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing would attract strict regulatory scrutiny under the FCCPA 2018. Consumers were advised to confirm fares before travel, retain receipts, and report unfair practices via FCCPC’s complaint portal or hotlines.

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Afrobeats Star Makes Surprise Performance With Shallipopi At Detty December Concert

Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy stunned fans with an unannounced appearance at Shallipopi’s Plutomania Live concert during Iconiq Fest in Lagos. His arrival electrified the Landmark Event Centre, as he joined Shallipopi for a remix of Laho II before performing his own track Dem Dey.

The three‑day festival featured BNXN, Chike, Victony, Blaqbonez, and others, marking a successful debut for Iconiq Fest. Burna Boy’s surprise appearance was the highlight of Lagos’ Detty December, reinforcing Nigeria’s global cultural influence through Afrobeats.

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