The United States plans to spend N587 billion ($413.046 million) on counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria and other African countries in 2026 amid worsening security conditions across West Africa.

The allocation is contained in the US National Defence Authorisation Act for Fiscal Year 2026. The funds were approved under Title XLIII – Operation and Maintenance.

The security budget for the US Africa Command comes against the backdrop of the Christmas Day attacks on terrorists’ hideouts in Sokoto State by the Donald Trump administration.

On Tuesday, AFRICOM delivered a consignment of military equipment to Nigerian security agencies as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations across the country.

Location: Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Thursday, 15 January, 2026

• Senator Natasha Akpoti- Uduagan feeling happy in the court room.

‎Following the Senate president ‘s Goodwill Akpabio ‘s New Year forgiveness, the Federal Government on Thursday officially withdrawn the criminal charges of defamation levelled against Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The government, through the Attorney General’s office, discontinued the case

‎The AGF had filed a notice of discontinuance on 12 December 2025.
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Justice Chizoba Orji , during Thursday’s proceedings, struck out the suit and discharged the defendant.
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‎The trial judge also made further orders releasing the Senator’s travel papers as well the title deeds of her sureties.
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‎This ends a protracted legal battle that began in July 2025, sparked by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public accusations against Akpabio during Senate plenary sessions.
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‎The withdrawal caps months of litigation that caused a rift in the 10th Senate and fueled debates on political accountability versus personal vendettas.

Reacting, senator Akpoti- Uduagan said that the development vindicated her position and reaffirmed her confidence in the rule of law.

“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law. I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.

She expressed gratitude to her legal team, constituents, and supporters for their steadfast backing throughout the legal process.