A violent clash between Boko Haram and its splinter group ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) erupted near Lake Chad in north-eastern Nigeria. Reports suggest that around 200 militants were killed, with ISWAP bearing heavier losses.
The dispute appears to be over territorial control of islands in the Lake Chad region.
This turf war underscores the persistent instability in the region and the complex dynamics between non-state armed groups.
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2. Emergency Rule Declared in Rivers State
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, a major oil-producing region.
The governor, his deputy, and the state assembly were suspended amid concerns over pipeline vandalism.
The move enables the federal government to deploy security forces and regulate the state to curb ongoing saboteur activity.
A retired vice admiral was appointed as caretaker administrator.
Legal and civil society groups have criticized this as an extraordinary use of executive power.
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3. Economic Policy Shift: Fuel Import Tariff Dropped
Nigeria has canceled a planned 15% import duty on petrol and diesel that was set to begin in December.
The tariff was initially introduced to raise non-oil revenue and support the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos.
But importers and fuel marketers resisted, warning that the duty could disrupt fuel supply and make Nigeria overly dependent on its domestic refinery.
With the holiday season approaching, the government assured the public that fuel supply would remain stable.
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4. Human Rights Concern: School Abduction in Kebbi State
On November 17, gunmen abducted 25 girls from a government girls’ secondary school in Maga, Kebbi State, in northwestern Nigeria.
During the attack, the school’s vice principal was killed while trying to stop the attackers.
Security forces, including the police and local vigilantes, have launched a coordinated rescue operation.
At the time of reporting, no group had claimed responsibility, and authorities are working to locate the girls and bring the perpetrators to justice.
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5. Culture & Arts: Black Muse Festival Opens in Benin City
Benin City is now home to a 3,500 m² sculpture park, inaugurated as part of the Black Muse Festival, which opened on November 8.
The park features a 15-metre bamboo pavilion inspired by traditional bronze heads, stained glass, and local architecture.
It was created by Nigerian-American artist Victor Ehikhamenor, with design by architect James Inedu-George.
The opening coincides with the launch of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), showcasing over 300 works, including Benin Bronzes.
The festival also emphasizes sustainability, community engagement, and the role of public art in daily life.
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6. Natural Disaster: Devastating Floods in Mokwa
Earlier this year (May 28–29), catastrophic flooding hit Mokwa in Niger State, reportedly killing over 500 people.
More than 600 people went missing, and the flood destroyed over 4,000 homes.
The disaster was triggered by heavy rainfall, dam collapse, and poor infrastructure (including drainage).
Critical infrastructure — such as bridges and roads — was swept away, and farmland was destroyed, severely affecting livelihoods.