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United States Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, has said President Donald Trump directed the Pentagon to prioritise the protection of Christians in Nigeria targeted by ISIS-linked groups.

Speaking during a press conference at the White House on Wednesday, Hegseth said Trump gave the directive about a year ago after learning about attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

“Maybe a year ago, he heard the call of Nigerian Christians who were being targeted and killed by ISIS in Nigeria, and he said, ‘Pete, I want the War Department to focus on ensuring that we do everything we can to protect those Christians,’” Hegseth said.

According to him, the operation involved behind-the-scenes coordination and deployment of military assets.

“And we got the assets there, and over the last month, and there hasn’t been much coverage of this, we killed ISIS number two in Nigeria, who’s most responsible for killing Christians and trying to target the U.S. homeland,” he stated.

According to Hegseth, intelligence gathered during the operation contributed to the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as ISIS’s second-in-command, during a joint operation involving U.S. and Nigerian forces in the Lake Chad Basin.

According to report, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was killed in a coordinated US-Nigeria military operation in northeast Nigeria earlier this month.

Hegseth said the operation also led to the deaths of “hundreds” of ISIS fighters linked to attacks on Christians in Nigeria and threats against the United States.

“And have since, because of the intel we gathered, killed hundreds of ISIS members who were targeting and killing Christians in Nigeria,” he added.

The U.S. defence chief said the operation reflected the Trump administration’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts and protecting vulnerable communities.

“So there are a lot of things we do that the media pays attention to, and a lot of things that the president empowers the department to do on behalf of the American people that he deserves great credit for,” Hegseth said

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The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has reacted to the emergence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

Mark said Atiku’s victory at the primary reflects that democracy is still functional in Nigeria.

Recall that, Atiku secured the ADC ticket after defeating former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen in a landslide victory at the party’s presidential primary.

Speaking during the official collation and announcement of results in Abuja, Mark said: “Today is not just about announcing a presidential candidate.

“Today is also about proving a point to Nigeria and to Nigerians.

“It is about proving that democracy can still work. Proving that political competition does not have to become political warfare. That a party can organize itself around principles instead of personalities. And that in a season of deep national anxiety, a bright future is still possible.

“That is why this gathering matters. And that is why history will remember what we have done here Today.

“Let me begin by thanking every member of the African Democratic Congress for your steadfastness, your patience, your sacrifices, your understanding, and your faith in this party, especially in the face of daunting challenges.

“Many people doubted us. Some dismissed us. Others predicted confusion, division, and even outright collapse.”

Mark also praised Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen for participating in the contest.

He further noted that the ADC remains the only political party with three strong aspirants competing for its presidential ticket.

“It is important to mention that we are the only political party to have 3 strong aspirants contest for the presidential ticket.

“This alone makes the ADC unique in its deep commitment to democracy and democratic practices,” he stated.

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

For most, May 27 is simply another date on the calendar. But for Comrade (Dr.) Pastor Humble Obinna Power — trade unionist, anointed minister of the Gospel, songwriter, author, and a distinguished leader in Nigeria’s petroleum oil and gas workers’ union — it is a day of profound meaning.

It marks the dawn of his earthly journey, a day he honors unfailingly. This year, the celebration carries even greater weight as Dr. Obinna Power reaches the golden age of 50.

For a man of his caliber and stature unveiling memoirs would hardly surprise anyone. His life story — marked by resilience, ingenuity, and a steady rise in the petroleum industry — would inspire countless readers, offering lessons for entrepreneurs and everyday people determined to reshape their destinies. His journey is a testament to destiny fulfilled.

Rising to become one of the union’s most influential voices, he has demonstrated extraordinary energy and vision. Tirelessly, he has crafted policies, mobilized resources, and engaged industry leaders and government stakeholders to advance the welfare of oil and gas workers.

His commitment to human development and capacity building remains phenomenal. Fearless, dogged, and unrelenting, he embodies the spirit of a true achiever.

Beyond professional accomplishments, Dr. Obinna Power is a devoted family man. Blessed with a loving wife, Nurse Juliet Obinna Power, and two wonderful children, Prevail and Perez, he is known for nurturing strong family bonds, creating cherished memories, and living by sound Christian virtues.

He currently serves as Resident Pastor at Gateway International Church, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

On this milestone birthday, we celebrate not only his life but also his unwavering dedication to workers’ rights and fairness. His selflessness, resilience, and commitment continue to inspire all who cross his path.

May this new chapter bring well-deserved rest, renewed strength, and even greater victories in the causes he champions.

Happy 50th Birthday, Comrade Dr. Pastor Humble Obinna Power — congratulations on reaching this golden age!

*— Theophilus Etim is a lawyer and social commentator, he wrote from Abuja.