Nigerians hit as Iran rains missiles on UAE
The UAE Ministry of Defence disclosed on Saturday that its air defence systems intercepted several missiles and drones fired from Iran, describing the attack as a major escalation in the ongoing regional tensions. In a statement posted on its official X handle, the ministry said its air defence units engaged nine ballistic missiles and 33 drones during the latest assault on March 14. “The UAE air defence systems on March 14 engaged nine ballistic missiles and 33 UAVs launched from Iran,” the ministry stated. In its statement, the UAE Ministry of Defence said the country remained fully prepared to confront any threats to its security. “UAE air defences are dealing with Iranian ballistic and cruise missiles and drones,” it said.
Source:Punch
March 15, 2026 00:19 UTC
Bandits killed 20 soldiers, others in Friday attack – Plateau group
The Kanam Development Association of Plateau State has raised the alarm over the killing of no fewer than 20 security personnel, including local vigilantes, by bandits. According to the group, the security agents, who were part of a patrol team, were ambushed in the Garga area of Kanam Local Government Area on Friday. The Kanam group described the attack as part of a prolonged wave of insecurity that has plagued the border communities linking Plateau with Taraba State and Bauchi State for over three to four years. The patrol team consisted of military personnel and local vigilantes operating in two vehicles. About 12 security personnel, including two senior military officers, were killed.
Source:Punch
March 15, 2026 00:11 UTC
Tinubu doing his best for Nigerians, says Gowon
), on Saturday in Abuja gave a blanket endorsement of President Bola Tinubu’s performance, declaring that the President is “doing the best he can all round” across all sectors of governance. “As far as it goes, isn’t he doing the best he can all round? “We had to look at all the good work that the President is doing and the progress that Nigeria is making economically and otherwise,” Gowon said. Asked to speak on recent developments in the country given his reputation as a voice of peace, Gowon insisted that only President Tinubu can rally Nigeria through its current challenges. The opposition has criticised President Tinubu over rising insecurity, inflation, and the impact of economic reforms, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy implemented in June 2023.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 23:10 UTC
Nigerians, other nationalities caught in UAE-Iran crossfire
“UAE air defence systems on 14th March engaged 9 ballistic missiles and 33 UAVs launched from Iran,” the statement said. According to the ministry, six people have been killed, including nationals of the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Meanwhile, a United States senator has warned that the conflict could spiral further. Speaking on Saturday, Chris Murphy, a senator representing Connecticut in the United States Senate, said the conflict had entered a dangerous phase. The ongoing confrontation between the United States and Iran has already resulted in significant casualties, destruction and growing international calls for restraint from world leaders.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 21:42 UTC
Army Arrests Suspected Attacker in Benue Community
Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested a high-profile suspected criminal in Agasha Village, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, following a reported attack on a local resident. Upon arrival, the troops cordoned off the area to prevent the suspect from escaping while conducting a targeted search operation aimed at identifying and apprehending the alleged attacker. “The suspected militia member identified as Mr Suurnen David Akum, aged 27, from Agasha Village in Guma Local Government Area, was successfully apprehended by the troops. A locally fabricated rifle was also recovered from the suspect during the arrest,” the statement added. The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and tactical approach, which led to the successful apprehension of the suspect.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 20:22 UTC
Stripped of life: the deadly South Australian algal bloom is still spreading one year on
View image in fullscreen The year-long algal bloom crisis has had a profound psychological impact on South Australians, a study shows. Dozens of leafy sea dragons have washed up dead, he says, and the deaths are ongoing, with eight more washing up at Kangaroo Island in recent weeks. View image in fullscreen Marine scientist Stefan Andrews says while the water may appear clear at some sites, it has been ‘stripped of life’. About a third of those directly affected linked their distress to witnessing dead marine species on the beach. Photograph: Narelle AutioAbout half (47%) said they had stopped engaging in recreational activities including surfing, swimming, diving, or walking on the beach.
Source:The Guardian
March 14, 2026 19:12 UTC
Why Haaland & Mbeumo Call Calvin Bassey a Premier League Bea
(Photo by Kenzo TRIBOUILLARD / AFP)Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has joined Erling Haaland in singing the praises of Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey, describing the Fulham centre-back as one of the most physically demanding opponents he has faced in the Premier League. Mbeumo made the remarks during an appearance on the Zack Nani show, reflecting on matches he had played against Fulham. “Calvin Bassey is a beast, the guy is a beast. Speaking on the Rest Is Football podcast after a thrilling 5-4 win over Fulham, Haaland said, “It is not easy. When you play against Bassey, you know.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 16:25 UTC
Three sentenced to death for Rivers pharmacist murder
A Rivers State High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, has sentenced three persons to death by hanging for the murder of a pharmacist, Muenalo Sunday, in Khana Local Government Area of the state. Justice Chukwu consequently sentenced Kirinee, Mona, and Sagha to death by hanging, while Legah was sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in cult activities linked to the crime. “The judgment today is a good one. Today, justice has been served for both the living and the dead,” he said. Also reacting to the judgment, the widow of the deceased pharmacist, Pretty Neewa-Sunday, expressed relief that those responsible for her husband’s death had been punished.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 12:48 UTC
Ogun airport set for first international Hajj flights
The Ogun State Government has concluded plans to commence international operations at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Remo with the airlift of Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj. Akinmade said the Gateway International Airport, “built to high engineering standards,” was gradually moving towards full operations, with ongoing activities to launch international passenger services. “The governor also mandated the Consultant on Aviation Matters and Accountable Manager of Gateway International Airport, Capt. “The intention is for Hajj operations to take place at Gateway International Airport this year,” he said. He said the Gateway International Airport is among the 17 airports across the country designated for Hajj operations.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 11:11 UTC
Aviation fuel price jumps 80% in Nigeria, straining airlines
Domestic airlines operating in the country are facing mounting financial pressure following a sharp increase in the price of Jet-A1, also known as aviation fuel, the Airline Operators of Nigeria has said. Aviation fuel remains the largest cost component in airline operations, accounting for about 30 to 35 per cent of total operating expenses. He noted that developments in the global oil market, particularly the recent release of reserve crude oil, could influence fuel prices in the coming weeks. Okonkwo also urged the Federal Government to explore engagement with the Dangote Refinery as part of efforts to stabilise aviation fuel supply locally. According to him, if the spike persists, some airlines may struggle to continue absorbing the losses associated with the rising cost of aviation fuel.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 10:47 UTC
Morning recap: Tinubu moves safety bureau to Presidency, police invite parents over school assault, blackout worsens power crisis, other stories
Major political, security and social developments dominated Saturday’s headlines as President Bola Tinubu overruled Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo and ordered the relocation of the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau to the Presidency. Also making headlines, a cleric, Agbala Gabriel, is battling allegations of fraud and sexual misconduct, claims that have stirred intense debate on social media. Here are the top stories:Tinubu overrules Keyamo, moves safety investigation bureau to PresidencyPresident Bola Tinubu has reportedly directed that the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau be moved to the Presidency, overriding the earlier position of Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo. The incident, which went viral on social media, has triggered widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger anti-bullying measures in schools. Findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that residents in Kano State, Kaduna State, Sokoto State, Enugu State, Benue State, Oyo State, Akwa Ibom State, Taraba State, Lagos State, and Ogun State have been battling prolonged blackouts in recent weeks.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 10:19 UTC
Troops Repel Terrorist Attack in Borno State
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled attempted terrorist attacks on Azir Bridge and Banki in Borno State. It added that the troops launched coordinated attacks which disrupted the terrorists’ assault formations and forced them into disarray. The operation was further supported by air strikes from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, which played a significant role in repelling the attackers. “The engagements were further reinforced by effective close air support from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, which contributed significantly to the successful defeat of the attackers,” the statement added. Operation Hadin Kai reassured the public that troops of the Joint Task Force remain committed to defeating terrorist threats in the North-East and restoring peace to the region.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 10:01 UTC
Petrol import ban divides marketers after Dangote hikes price
Similarly, the coastal supply price was adjusted upward from N1,378,548 per metric tonne to N1,512,648 per metric tonne. The regulator said Dangote produced an average of 36 million litres per day, and the country was consuming over 50 million litres per day. “In their own report, they said Dangote supplied about 36 million litres per day, while the country’s consumption was about 56 million litres per day. However, the commencement of operations at the Dangote refinery, widely regarded as Africa’s largest refinery, has significantly altered the dynamics of the downstream sector. The Dangote refinery is the only plant producing petrol currently in Nigeria.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 08:42 UTC
Hold states, LGs accountable, Tinubu tells media executives
President Bola Tinubu has urged media executives to extend the same level of scrutiny they apply to his administration to states and local governments, which, he argued, now enjoy greater financial autonomy under his reformed federalism. The President made the appeal on Friday night while hosting media proprietors and executives at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja. Tinubu thanked media proprietors for their relentless criticism, which he said challenged him to perform better despite the harsh commentary during his early days in office. Tinubu also acknowledged the challenging operating environment for media organisations, particularly regarding funding sources during difficult economic times. Tinubu commended media proprietors for innovations introduced during challenging periods and pledged continued patriotic dedication to improving Nigeria.
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 08:12 UTC
Popular pastor Agbala Gabriel battles fraud, sex allegations
An Ibadan, Oyo State-based cleric, Kayode Amusan, aka Agbala Gabriel, has been accused of sexual misconduct and mishandling of donations raised for sick individuals. For years, the cleric cultivated an image online as a compassionate pastor whose ministry frequently rallied support for the sick and vulnerable. “Agbala Gabriel initially denied the pregnancy, but after pressure, he later accepted responsibility and rented a house for the lady and the twins,” she added. We see men of God like Pastor Adeboye, and other famous pastors being dragged on social media every day. This is just how they do on social media, making false allegations.”
Source:Punch
March 14, 2026 08:06 UTC