Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Federal Government has decided to rename the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, to honor the former head of state for his contributions to the country's unity and stability. Following approval by the Federal Executive Council, the government will inform the National Assembly to finalize the official name change. Additionally, the government announced free nationwide train travel from December 20 to January 6, 2025, to ease high transportation costs for citizens traveling during the Christmas holiday season, after which cabinet members will go on recess until January 6.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has urged Niger Delta leaders under the umbrella of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum to counsel Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to obey the Supreme Court judgment regarding the political crisis in the state, placing the responsibility for restoring peace and upholding the rule of law squarely on their shoulders. Meeting with the delegation at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President emphasized that respect for the judiciary is vital for preserving democracy and fostering harmony, while noting that previous agreements had already been signed by the parties involved. During the closed-door meeting, regional leaders like King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff and former Akwa Ibom State Governor Obong Victor Attah expressed support for the administration and warned that the ongoing political instability in Rivers State threatens broader national stability. In response, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to community and regional development through ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the coastal road and new seaports, while assuring the delegation that the people of Rivers State will be protected and supported through the current political challenges.

The Federal Executive Council meeting led by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Federal Executive Council approved a 2025 budget proposal of 47.96 trillion Naira, presented following reports by Budget Office Director-General Tanimu Yakubu, with details outlined by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Atiku Bagudu and Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, based on an oil price benchmark of 75 dollars per barrel, an oil production rate of 2.06 million barrels per day, an exchange rate of 1400 Naira to a dollar, projected revenues of 34.82 trillion Naira, and a projected deficit of 13.13 trillion Naira.