The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Peoples Republic of China, on Thursday 10th January 2019 signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Chinese to assist the Armed Forces of Nigeria in strengthening its counter-insurgency capabilities.

Reports from local residents along the Damaturu-Borno State highway indicate that the Boko Haram insurgents have allegedly issued an ultimatum to the residents of Jakana and Mainok towns in Borno state, to vacate the locality or get killed.

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has urged Nigeria and other Countries in the West African sub-region holding elections in 2019, to conduct peaceful and credible elections, NAN reports. He made the statement during a security council on the activities of United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS).

Reports indicate that the  Nigerian military has assembled thousands of troops and equipment in preparation for a massive operation to retake Baga and five other towns and adjoining villages in the northern part of Borno State from Boko Haram insurgents.

The Nigerian Navy on Friday announced the appointment of a new spokesperson who is also the Director of Information. Naval Director of Plans, Rear Adm. O. Daji, in a statement in Abuja announced that Commodore Suleman Dahun will be its new Director of Information.

Emerging reports indicate that five crew members, including two pilots and three personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, have been confirmed dead in the helicopter crash which occurred in Damasak, Borno State, late on Wednesday.