Anointed candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the elections for National Assembly leadership positions in Abuja. Senator Godswill Akpabio became President of the Senate with 63 votes, defeating Senator Abdulaziz Yari's 46. Senator Jibrin Barau was elected Deputy President unopposed. In the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas emerged as Speaker with 353 votes, while Benjamin Kalu secured the Deputy Speaker position. The elections adhered to the party's zoning arrangement, with Akpabio representing the South-South and Abbas the North-West. President Bola Tinubu congratulated the elected officials and emphasized the importance of cooperation between the executive and legislature for effective governance, warning of potential challenges ahead. The election process was described as free and fair, fostering a collegial atmosphere among senators.

Barely 24 hours after meeting with President Bola Tinubu where an agreement was reached to call off their protests, the rapprochement between the organised labour and the Federal Government appeared to have collapsed as the unions on Thursday night vowed to embark on a nationwide strike from August 14 if their leaders were summoned for contempt of court orders.

 The Nigeria Labour Congress hinged its decision on the contempt of court application filed by the Federal Ministry of Justice against the labour leaders on Wednesday.

It threatened to down tools should the Federal Government fails to withdraw the lawsuit accusing the labour leadership of disobeying court orders.

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, announced the decision on Thursday night after the union’s National Executive Council meeting which was held in Abuja. 

In a bid to avert a strike by the labour movement last month, the FG had through the Federal Ministry of Justice secured an order from the National Industrial Court restraining the NLC and the Trade Union Congress from embarking on any strike action over issues bordering on “removal of fuel subsidy, hike in prices of petrol and consequential increase in cost of living,” pending the determination of the suit.

The Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, in a statement, urged the NLC to withdraw the seven-day notice it issued on its plan to commence a nationwide industrial action from August 2, if the demands of labour unions were not met.

The justice ministry sternly warned in a statement on July 26 that the planned strike by the union would be contempt of court, an offence that is punishable by imprisonment.

Counsel for some #EndSARS protesters, Mr Adesina Ogunlana, has questioned the N61m budgeted by the Lagos State Government for the mass burial of 103 corpses recovered in the wake of the October 2020 #EndSARS protest.The state government had on Sunday confirmed the authenticity of a leaked letter indicating planned mass burial for 103 corpses. The letter, dated July 19 2023, The letter, signed by the Director-General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr Onafowote Idowu, But Ogunlana, who represented some#ENDSARS protesters who claimed to have either been shot or witnessed soldiers shooting protesters at the Lekki tollgate on October 20, 2020, expressed dismay at the sum budgeted to give mass burial to unclaimed bodies. The activist-lawyer said, “My concern is not about the people that died but the fact that somebody is saying he wants to carry out a mass burial with N61m – the mass burial of unidentified bodies, of degraded bodies that died about two years ago, roughly about 20 or 19 months ago. 

You want to use N61m for mass burial! It should not even be up to N1m. Is it not just digging a big grave and putting the bodies there? That shows you the exploitation of the ruling class that we have, who are telling the people to bear the pain and to bear with the government.”

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced significant progress in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, revealing that it approved approximately $20 billion in Field Development Plans (FDPs) over the past ten months. NUPRC Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe—represented by Deputy Director Efemona Bassey—made this disclosure during a two-day strategic media workshop for energy correspondents in Lagos. Komolafe explained that the approvals reflect ongoing regulatory reforms aimed at increasing oil production, attracting new investments, and strengthening industry confidence. He noted that despite declining global investment trends, Nigeria has maintained measurable growth supported by the Petroleum Industry Act and recent executive orders issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Komolafe highlighted key achievements, including crude oil output surpassing 1.7 million barrels per day on several occasions and a rising rig count approaching 70 active rigs nationwide. He reaffirmed the commission’s target of boosting national production by an additional one million barrels per day, with a new licensing round scheduled for December 1, 2025. Emphasizing the pivotal role of the media, he urged journalists to provide factual, contextual, and development-focused reporting to positively shape investor perception while upholding transparency.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Abdurahman Bobboi, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Adamawa State, Sanda Lamurde, former Commissioner for Finance in the state, and Feredan George, Chief Store Officer of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency. The charges include stealing, forgery, and uttering. The accused pleaded not guilty to the 26 counts, and the prosecution counsel, Abubakar Aliyu, requested a trial date. Justice Aliyu ordered the accused to be remanded in prison custody pending the determination of their bail applications. The case is expected to be adjourned until November 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, 2017.

To support healthy growth and development, children require a balanced diet rich in various nutrients. Nutrition experts emphasize the importance of providing a variety of foods from all major food groups to ensure children receive necessary nutrients. A UNICEF report highlights the critical role of good nutrition in early childhood, urging investments in nutrition interventions for lifelong health and well-being. Parents should focus on meals that include adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals, avoiding poor dietary choices that can impede growth. Affordable local foods and a mix of colorful ingredients can help achieve nutritional balance. Key nutrients essential for children include protein (from meats, fish, beans), carbohydrates (from whole grains), healthy fats (from avocados, fatty fish), calcium (from dairy and greens), iron (from meats and cereals), vitamins A and C (from fruits and vegetables), vitamin D (from sunlight and fortified foods), fiber (from grains and produce), and potassium (from bananas and greens). A variety of these foods, including specially formulated milk, supports children’s development.

Eleven state governors belonging to the Peoples Democratic Party have officially filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and his suspension of the state's democratically elected governor, deputy governor, and house of assembly members. The legal action, brought forward by the attorney generals of Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara, and Bayelsa states, asks the apex court to determine whether the president has the constitutional authority to suspend elected state structures and replace them with an unelected sole administrator, arguing that such actions violate the constitution and the principles of federalism.

Speaking at an economic outlook event in Lagos, Taiwo Oyedele, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, projected that Nigeria’s average inflation rate could fall dramatically from 34.80% in 2024 down to 15% in 2025. He explained that while the base effect alone would naturally pull inflation down to 25%, ongoing structural reforms will drive it even lower by curbing the main historical drivers of price hikes, which were foreign exchange volatility, fuel subsidy removals, and high interest rates. Oyedele noted that foreign exchange liquidity is improving due to daily government savings and upcoming tax reforms, while crude oil production has risen to one point eight million barrels per day. Although he acknowledged the severe financial hardship Nigerians are currently facing due to these necessary market-driven changes, he expressed firm optimism that strict fiscal discipline and a pause on money printing will stabilize the economy and eventually strengthen the undervalued naira.

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority stated that approximately 15,000 public buses are needed to transport passengers across Lagos, as revealed during a visit by a delegation from the Public Complaints Commission to address commuters' concerns regarding bus availability and long waiting times at transit stations. During the interactive session held at the agency's corporate headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, the transport authority's managing director engaged extensively with the visiting commissioners and directors regarding the systemic challenges facing private franchise operators and public transit logistics. Agency leadership noted that while the current operational fleet stands at just over one thousand vehicles, collaborative initiatives with private investors are already underway to expand capacity and improve service reliability. Also some officials stated that upcoming fleet enhancements, including the anticipated integration of eco-friendly compressed natural gas units and electric vehicles, are scheduled for delivery toward the final quarter of the year to help bridge the massive deficit in public mobility infrastructure and ease congestion for daily commuters across the metropolis

An authorised biography of President Muhammadu Buhari has revealed how he chose Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as his running mate for the 2015 presidential election despite opposition from national leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. The book, 'Muhammadu Buhari: The Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria,' by Prof. John Paden, was presented at an event in Abuja. The book claims that Tinubu, then Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, and Osinbajo were forwarded to Buhari for him to pick a running mate shortly after the retired general emerged the party's candidate at its convention in Lagos. Paden did not disclose who forwarded the list of the three nominees to Buhari. Although Tinubu was one of the four persons who reviewed the book, he did not raise any objection to the author's claim.

Political pundits have criticized politicians who were once against restructuring in Nigeria, arguing that they are using it as a bait to endear the people to themselves. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar initially called for Nigeria's restructuring in 2016, stating that it was necessary to reform the country into a workable entity. However, political pundits believe this was a big bait by an experienced politician with eyes on the 2019 presidential election. Some people have called on the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to listen to the people's call for restructuring, which is featured in the party's manifesto. Some have also called for the implementation of the 2014 National Conference report, which could address major issues affecting the country. However, President Buhari has insinuated that the fight against corruption and insecurity is on his agenda. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, has also been quiet on the restructuring subject, stating that it would bring the much needed balance to the country.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, along with university leaders and the Federal Government, has set the official minimum cut-off marks for 2025 tertiary education admissions in Nigeria. Under the new guidelines, the benchmark score is 150 for universities, 140 for colleges of nursing, and 100 for polytechnics and colleges of education. While individual institutions are allowed to set higher cut-off marks if they choose, they are strictly forbidden from admitting students who score below these agreed limits. Additionally, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, reconfirmed that the official minimum age for admission is now 16 years old, down from the previously proposed 18. This age requirement is non-negotiable and aimed at ensuring students have the right mix of academic readiness and maturity. While strict compliance is expected and all admissions must be processed legally through the Central Admissions Processing System, rare exceptions will be made for gifted or accelerated students who have properly documented proof. Authorities also issued a strong warning to institutions and applicants against manipulating age records to bypass this rule.

The Super Eagles' attempt to secure their fourth Africa Cup of Nations title ended in disappointment with a 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the semi-finals held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The match concluded goalless after 90 minutes and went into extra time, where Nigeria struggled to maintain possession and failed to create significant chances. Captain Wilfred Ndidi was absent due to suspension, resulting in Raphael Onyedika starting in his place. Nigeria's performance included only two shots, while Morocco had more control but could not convert their chances. In the penalty shootout, Nigeria missed crucial opportunities, leading to Morocco's advancement to their first AFCON final since 2004. Nigeria will compete against Egypt for third place on Saturday.

The National Assembly recently approved the electronic transmission of election results with manual collation retained as a fallback, sparking protests and heated debates in both legislative chambers. The discussions were marked by intense partisan divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections. In the Senate, a group led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe challenged a controversial provision in Clause 60(3) that designated manually completed Form EC8A as the primary source of results collation if electronic transmission fails. The House of Representatives' minority caucus staged a walkout in response to perceived attempts to push through amendments without enforcing mandatory real-time electronic transmission. Ultimately, both chambers passed the bill allowing the electronic upload of results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal, yet stopping short of ensuring real-time transmission without exceptions.The proceedings were complicated when discrepancies in the earlier passed Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill, 2026 led to a re-examination of certain clauses. The tension escalated particularly around Clause 60, which governs the transmission and collation of results, resulting in a vote that maintained the manual backup provision. The Senate’s majority supported keeping manual collation as a safety measure in case of technological failures.

Opposition political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and Labour Party, have seen a wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP, NNPP, and Coalition of United Political Parties accused the APC-led Federal Government of exploiting state resources to coerce politicians into switching allegiance. Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and all party members in the state have officially defected to the APC, citing internal conflicts and other issues. Senator Kawu Sumaila has formally confirmed his defection from the National Peoples Democratic Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Sumaila cited his commitment to his constituents as his primary concern, stating that all politics is local. His departure has also sparked rumors that former presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso may return to the APC. Oluwole Oke, a long-serving member of the House of Representatives, has also announced his resignation from the PDP. Meanwhile, LP Senator Neda Imasuen is on the verge of defecting to the APC, with efforts underway to strengthen the party's ranks nationally and in the state.

The interim national chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, announced that the party's newly formed opposition coalition has no preferred presidential candidate for the 2027 election, asserting that prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi are all equal stakeholders despite internal bias complaints from Dumebi Kachikwu. This announcement comes amid a massive wave of defections to the African Democratic Congress across states like Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, and Ondo, involving notable politicians such as Mohammed Kumalia, Sule Lamido, Eyitayo Jegede, and Agboola Ajayi. In response to this growing political momentum, President Bola Tinubu’s aides, including Bayo Onanuga, and the All Progressives Congress National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, dismissed the coalition as a desperate gathering of failed, ambitious politicians, while Information Minister Mohammed Idris insisted the administration remains fully focused on its economic reforms. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party, represented by figures like Kamorudeen Ajisafe, Abdulkadir Dukku, and Umar Damagum, downplayed the political threat, stating their party structures remain secure and that many high-profile defections lack formal resignation letters. Adding to the friction, the African Democratic Congress has mobilized a team of ninety-seven lawyers under the leadership of Mohammed Sheriff to fight a federal lawsuit filed by Adeyemi Emmanuel, Ayodeji Victor Tolu, and Haruna Ismaila to oust interim leaders like Senator Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and Bolaji Abdullahi. The African Democratic Congress claims this legal challenge was deceptively sponsored by the ruling party using fraudulent plaintiffs who are not even registered members.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the African Democratic Congress engaged in aggression war of words after the party blamed President Bola Tinubu for the economic hardships facing Nigerians. Nyesom Wike mocked the newly unveiled opposition coalition led by an interim team featuring David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, arguing that prominent figures like Rotimi Amaechi and David Mark failed to develop the country when they held power. African Democratic Congress National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi hit back, stating Nyesom Wike was terrified of the coalition because the current government has forced citizens into poverty and neglected infrastructure. The ruling All Progressives Congress National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, and presidential aides Sunday Dare and Daniel Bwala also attacked the movement, calling it a dead-on-arrival gathering of opportunistic politicians. Meanwhile, internal divisions plague the opposition alliance. Former African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu promised legal action, alleging that the new leadership was deliberately engineered to secure the 2027 presidential ticket for Atiku Abubakar rather than a southern candidate. Furthermore, the Peoples Democratic Party National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, clarified that his party has not taken an official stance on joining the alliance, while a Labour Party faction led by Obiora Ifoh threatened to expel its former candidate Peter Obi for aligning with the movement. However, Eluma Asogwa, representing the Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party caretaker committee, quickly dismissed the ultimatum, affirming total support for Peter Obi’s efforts to build a strong political alternative.

Nigerian labour unions including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have raised alarms about the dire conditions faced by workers as they demand a review of the current minimum wage of N70,000, which they argue has become inadequate due to rising inflation. On May Day 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured that both legislative and executive branches of government are committed to addressing workers' concerns. However, union leaders claim the situation has worsened since President Bola Tinubu's administration began, particularly following the removal of the petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, leading to increased living costs and several protests.
Trade union representatives, such as Comrade Julius Laye from Bayelsa, criticized government policies, including new taxes and tariff hikes, contributing to hyperinflation and leaving workers struggling to afford basic needs, including healthcare. In Ebonyi State, leaders Prof. Oguguo Egwu and Comrade Igwe Chidi echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for an adjustment to the National Minimum Wage Act, which stipulates reviews every three years. They underlined that the hardships endured by workers are unprecedented and emphasized the importance of this year’s Workers Day theme, ‘Reclaiming a civic space amid economic hardship,’ which reflects the ongoing struggles of the Nigerian workforce.

The African Democratic Congress has stepped up efforts to expand its political base ahead of the 2027 general election, calling on former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and other prominent political figures to join the party.he appeal followed the inauguration of the party’s North-East Zonal Congress Committee, which the ADC said marked a renewed push to strengthen its internal structures, promote internal democracy, and reposition the party for national leadership.The event, organised by the party’s national leadership, was presided over by Dr Muhammad Muhammad. In the communiqué, Gombe described the inauguration as a critical step towards consolidating the party’s presence in the North-East and ensuring transparent and credible congresses across the zone.The move comes amid renewed political realignments, barely two weeks after the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, defected to the David Mark-led ADC, a development that has further fuelled speculation about emerging alliances ahead of the 2027 polls.

Prominent Nigerian political figures, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former chief security officer Hamza Al-Mustapha, and political strategist Segun Showunmi, met privately with the leadership of the Social Democratic Party at its national secretariat in Abuja to discuss the current state of opposition politics. Although attendees described the gathering as an exploratory, strategic conversation to connect like-minded politicians rather than an official move to join the party, the meeting has fueled widespread speculation about potential opposition alliances forming to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections. The event came shortly after Nasir El-Rufai publicly debunked rumors that he planned to defect from his current party, emphasizing that his team remains open to constructive national political discussions aimed at safeguarding Nigeria's democracy and stability.

As the 2027 general elections approach, a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress and former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has called for the governorship seat to be zoned to the Nasarawa West Senatorial District, specifically the Keffi zone. Speaking at a stakeholders meeting in the Keffi Local Government Area, Senator Abdullahi Adamu emphasized that power rotation is based on a 1996 gentleman’s agreement meant to ensure peace, equity, and stability in the state. Youth leader Akwashiki Ibrahim Musa noted that this call was widely supported by key figures, including the All Progressives Congress National Legal Adviser Professor Abdulkareem Kana, Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and local youth leader Munzali Isa. Supporters argue that the western zone has not held the governorship in nearly two decades, while Nasarawa South and Nasarawa North have enjoyed extended periods in power. They believe sticking to the agreement prevents political marginalization and promotes unity. However, tensions are rising as some politicians from other zones want a free-for-all contest, leading to fears of an orchestrated conspiracy to deny the western zone its turn. Adding to the political anxiety, the current governor, Abdullahi Sule, stated he would announce his preferred successor at a later date, leaving stakeholders eager to see if the ruling party will respect the zoning arrangement or open the contest to all zones.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is preparing for the 2026 off-cycle elections and the 2027 general election, emphasizing the need to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria's electoral process. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, highlighted the importance of leadership continuity based on purpose, integrity, and vision, while acknowledging the challenge of maintaining public trust amid misinformation. The commission is undertaking a strategic retreat to set directions for the upcoming elections, reinforcing its commitment to free and transparent elections. Additionally, the Permanent Voter Cards for those registered during the first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise are still under processing, with data verification ongoing to ensure credibility and accuracy in the voter register. INEC is enhancing its registration efforts to improve access, especially for rural residents, while ensuring all registrants comply with biometric capture requirements.

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has warned that no individual or group can distract his administration with 2027 elections, saying he is focused on delivering development for the state.Otti made the statement on Saturday at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Umuikaa District headquarters, Isialangwa South LGA, while attending worship with his wife, Priscilla Chidinma.“I am not bothered about 2027. The same God who settled 2023 will also settle 2027,” he said.He vowed that his government will continue to do the right thing, not minding the attacks by the opposition.In his sermon on “Living With Eternal Perspective”, Masterguide Chidera Mark cited Isaiah 40:28-31, reminding the congregation that God does not change or faint. He said:“Before Governor Otti came, there were issues to worry about in Abia State, but his emergence brought hope. His re-election would sustain the hope and good works being witnessed today.”The church service concluded with prayers for Governor Otti and the state government.

The House of Representatives has dismissed allegations that the National Assembly is deliberately stalling the consideration and passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, saying the proposed legislation is likely to be harmonised next week.The Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Mr Adebayo Balogun, said the delay was procedural rather than political, insisting that work on the bill was ongoing in both chambers of the National Assembly.Balogun, who represents Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency of Lagos State, rejected the suggestion of deliberate delay. Speaking exclusively with The PUNCH, he said legislative work on the bill was progressing and expressed optimism that the harmonisation stage would soon be completed.The Senate is in session, considering the bill. Hopefully, the harmonisation will be completed by next week,” Balogun said.Lawmakers spent about four and a half hours in an executive session deliberating on the report of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, chaired by Senator Simon Lalong, alongside submissions from a seven-member ad hoc committee constituted last week to resolve contentious clauses in the bill.The leadership of the National Assembly, however, consistently maintained that the delay was due to legislative procedures and the need to achieve concurrence between both chambers before transmitting the bill for presidential assent.

On Sunday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that 2,316,232 individuals have completed online voter pre-registration in Nigeria. Osun state leads with 185,089 registrations, followed by Imo (143,386) and Kano (132,290). The update is part of INEC's efforts to ensure transparency in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process, representing completed registrations for the twelfth week. Registration is suspended in Anambra state until after the Governorship Election on November 8, 2025. Other notable figures include Sokoto (123,320), Lagos (109,693), and the Federal Capital Territory (106,855). The CVR is set to end in August 2026 and has shown increased participation from northern states due to enhanced voter awareness initiatives by community organizations and local leaders.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that 30 political parties will participate in the Ondo State governorship election on November 26, 2016. The parties include the Alliance for Democracy, Social Democratic Party, Peoples Democratic Party, Peoples Redemption Party, All Progressives Congress and Accord Party, Labour Party, Citizen Popular Party, Peoples Party of Nigeria, Allied Congress of Nigeria, National Conscience Party, and Unity Party of Nigeria. The commission is preparing to ensure a free and fair election and will use technology to streamline the process. The commission has initiated voter education, mobilisation, and public enlightenment campaigns to prevent voter apathy and encourage citizens to avoid violence.

Airtel Nigeria Chief Executive Officer Dinesh Balsingh has stated that a three hundred percent surge in operational costs over the past eighteen to twenty-four months has made a proposed one hundred percent tariff increase necessary for the long-term survival and sustainability of the telecommunications sector. Noting that consumer tariffs have remained unchanged for over a decade despite rising expenses driven by tough economic conditions, the executive explained that the proposed pricing adjustments submitted to the Nigerian Communications Commission are crucial for funding ongoing network infrastructure upgrades, expanding coverage, and meeting the growing demand for digital connectivity across education, banking, and healthcare. Furthermore, Balsingh emphasized that while these changes will help introduce cutting-edge technologies and enhance service quality to support Nigeria's digital economy vision, the adjustments will be implemented gradually with affordability in mind to minimize the financial impact on subscribers.

About 35 ministries, departments, and agencies of the Federal Government failed to appear before the House of Representatives ad hoc committee investigating alleged employment racketeering. The committee, chaired by Yusuf Gagdi, accused the MDAs of lacking respect for constituted authority and ordered them to provide staff members to serve as desk officers. Gagdi had previously urged the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Budget Office, IPPIS, and the FCC to provide desk officers. The four agencies that appeared before the committee were the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, the National Teachers Institute, the National Commission for Colleges of Education, and the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria. Gagdi criticized the MDAs for applying for a waiver for recruitment without advertising, claiming such waivers were usually used to perpetrate fraud.

During a strategic Town Square meeting in Ukanafun Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno distributed business grants, vehicles, and equipment support to over four hundred constituents in a direct effort to gauge public needs and incorporate community priorities into the 2026 state budget. Speaking to residents, Governor Eno urged the traders, farmers, and small business beneficiaries to use the resources responsibly rather than squandering them, emphasizing that his administration is dedicated to inclusive governance across all state constituencies. Beyond the economic empowerment initiative, the event served as a major political milestone, featuring project inspections like the Ukanafun General Hospital and culminating in cross-party political endorsements from local leaders, opposition figures, and community stakeholders backing the governor for a second term in 2027.

The Nigerian Communications Commission approved a fifty percent tariff increase for telecommunications operators, raising call costs to sixteen and a half naira per minute, text messages to 6 naira, and data to five hundred and twenty-five naira per gigabyte. This adjustment aims to counter rising operational costs, combat inflation, and support industry sustainability, though it falls short of the one hundred percent increase initially requested by network providers. Based on previous traffic data, the hike is projected to generate trillions of naira in revenue, with major operators like Mobile Telephone Network capturing the largest market share. While some consumer groups reluctantly accept the change provided it leads to tangible improvements in service delivery, others strongly oppose the burden, warning that it will worsen economic hardship and vowing to pursue legal action if service quality fails to improve.

According to the Nigerian Communication Commission, the fifth-generation network would close the country's fibre connectivity deficit and increase Internet penetration thanks to its widespread wireless connectivity. Nigeria needs three times as much fibre infrastructure as it presently has to achieve around 90% broadband penetration, among other goals, by 2025, according to the World Bank. As the number of 5G devices is anticipated to exceed one billion in the next two years, the cost of 5G devices and related equipment will shortly decline.

Northern governors and traditional rulers have called for a six-month suspension of mining across the region, attributing worsening insecurity to illegal mining activities. They announced a plan to mobilize N228 billion for combating banditry, with each state contributing N1 billion monthly. This decision was made during a joint meeting aimed at enhancing security responses, following numerous school raids resulting in the kidnapping of over 500 individuals. President Bola Tinubu recently declared a nationwide security emergency and endorsed the establishment of state police, marking a shift in political opposition. The forum also highlighted the link between illegal mining and increased violence, pushing for an audit of mining licenses. The meeting underscored the importance of regional unity and sustainable financing in addressing these challenges, with leaders stressing the need for investments in infrastructure to facilitate economic growth in the North.

Nigerian state governors have formed vigilante squads to combat kidnappings and bandits. The squads, consisting of vigilantes, hunters, and neighborhood watch groups, will complement police and other security forces. The abductions have taken scores of Nigerians, with some states in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos, and others under siege. The abductors are demanding a N100m ransom for the release of the nine victims. The governors are deploying trained personnel to enhance public safety and bolster existing security structures. The formations are being created due to the thin deployment of security forces, particularly in rural areas, and the increasing number of attacks by non-state armed groups.

The Peoples Democratic Party State Working Committee in Abia State has expelled former Senate President Adolphus Wabara from the party, following an investigation into his suspension for alleged anti-party activities. The decision was made during an emergency meeting after receiving the Disciplinary Committee's report. The committee cited Wabara's endorsement of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for a second term in office as an act of disloyalty to the party. Wabara had not issued any statement regarding his expulsion, but the Abia chapter insisted on his expulsion.The party asked the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee to act swiftly by appointing an acting chairman for the Peoples Democratic Party  Board of Trustees. The Abia State Executive Committee recommended the immediate appointment of an Acting Board of Trustees Chairman by the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee. The crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party has escalated, with former Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom, Senator Anyanwu, and others failing to attend the National Disciplinary Committee led by former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Ikimi. The committee held its session in Abuja on February 6, and the identities of the other 10 invitees remain undisclosed.Since the 2023 presidential election, the Peoples Democratic Party has been embroiled in internal conflicts, with members accusing others of undermining the party's interests and calling for disciplinary measures. The Peoples Democratic Party National Working Committee established a disciplinary committee on August 21 to allow members to file complaints, hear both sides, and make recommendations to the National Executive Committee.

The Federal Government may demolish no fewer than 30 illegal settlements and slums and over 6,000 illegal buildings in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as part of measures to restore the nation’s capital’s master plan. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who dropped the hint on resuming office on Monday, said all illegal buildings distorting the Abuja master plan would be pulled down. Wike vowed to flatten all illegal buildings even if they belonged to a minister or an ambassador. Findings by The PUNCH indicate that the slums that might be affected by the urban renewal programme would include Apo Mechanic Village, Byanzhin, Dawaki, Dei Dei, Durumi, Dutse, Garki, Garki Village, Gishiri, Gwagwalape, Idu, Jabi, Kado Village, Karmo, Karshi, Karu, Katampe, Ketti Village, Kpaduma, Kabusa, Kpana Village, Kubwa, Lokogoma, Lugbe, Mabushi, Mpape, Nyanya and Piya Kasa. Also, those who acquired lands from Abuja indigenes may lose their investments as they were regarded by the FCT Administration as illegal. Checks indicate that the 6,000 structures that may be affected by the restoration plans included buildings that have been abandoned for a long time in violation of the building code.

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, has filed a motion to the US Court to overrule President Bola Tinubu's request to stop Chicago State University from releasing his academic record. Atiku has secured an order from a US magistrate for CSU to make Tinubu's academic records available to his legal team. He is seeking to test the authenticity and origin of 12 pages of documents, including two different diplomas, that purport to have been issued by CSU.

The Alliance for Democracy in Ondo State has declared Chief Olusola Oke as its candidate for the November 26 governorship election in the state. Oke defected to the Alliance after the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress failed to adopt the recommendation of the Electoral Appeal Committee, which recommended the annulment of the September 3, 2016, primary of the party in Ondo State. The state Chairman of the Alliance, Mr. Seriki Adebobola, stated that Oke had the capacity to win the election. The party chairman noted that with the coming of Oke to the AD, the party would win the forthcoming governorship election, adding that the party stood a better chance to win the governorship poll with the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party in its camp. The party chairman also noted that the party stood a better chance to win the governorship poll with the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party in its camp.

The Federal Government has arraigned Oladipupo Adebutu, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, on seven counts related to vote-buying and other electoral offences during the March 18, 2023, governorship poll. Adebutu was arraigned alongside five others before Justice Abiodun Akinyemi of the Ogun State High Court. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges in the criminal case marked AB/10c/2023. The All Progressives Congress had dragged Adebutu before the police, alleging that he induced voters during the poll by allegedly giving out 200,000 vouchers preloaded with N10,000 to prospective voters. The Federal Government filed charges against Adebutu and his PDP allies last year, but their arraignment was stalled as Adebutu was said to have travelled out of the country for medical treatment.

The Presidency has refuted claims that African Development Bank (AfDB) President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, poses any political threat to President Bola Tinubu or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking on TVC’s Beyond the Headlines programme, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Adesina’s recent economic comments as inaccurate and politically misplaced. Adesina had stated during a policy forum in Abuja that Nigeria’s GDP per capita had declined from $1,847 in 1960 to about $824 in 2025, arguing that Nigerians are now worse off than they were 64 years ago. Responding, the Presidency rejected these figures, citing World Bank data which estimated Nigeria’s 1960 GDP per capita at just $93, not nearly $2,000. Onanuga stressed that GDP alone cannot determine citizens’ wellbeing and pointed to significant progress in infrastructure, education, and life expectancy. He maintained that, considering broader quality-of-life indicators and ongoing development projects, Nigerians are better off today than at independence.

In just 17 months, the Tinubu administration has expressed interest in establishing a decentralized police force in Nigeria. This comes after President Bola Tinubu stated that the Federal Government will expedite the devolution of power to sub-national levels and further equip forest guards. The National Publicity Secretary of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Jare Ajayi, welcomed the renewed call by the President. Ajayi expressed hope that Tinubu would remove delays clogging the implementation pipeline before the end of 2025. The idea of state police has been on the front burner for quite a while, and the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, announced Tinubu's renewed move to create state police after talks with state governors. The creation of state police was part of agreements reached at an emergency meeting between the President and state governors, following nationwide killings, kidnappings, food price hikes, and economic hardship. The process is still in its infancy and will only take shape after more deliberations between stakeholders.

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited is seeking to borrow N2.3tn ($3bn) from Afrexim Bank to support the naira. Afrexim Bank is currently in talks with oil traders to finance loans, as the naira hit an all-time low of 1,000 to the dollar on the black market.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has confirmed that Lagos will host the 2025 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), reinforcing the city’s position as Africa’s creative and cultural capital. During a visit from representatives of the African Union (AU) and the AFRIMA International Committee, Sanwo-Olu declared Lagos “ready to roll out the red carpet,” emphasizing the event’s alignment with his administration’s focus on developing the creative and tourism industries. He noted that Lagos’ 2025 cultural calendar already includes major international events like the Cannes Film Festival and the E1 World Championship, highlighting the state’s growing global profile.AU official Angela Martins praised Sanwo-Olu’s continued support for the arts, calling AFRIMA an important tool for advancing the AU’s cultural agenda and Agenda 2063. AFRIMA President Mike Dada added that the 2025 edition will be a week-long festival expected to attract 1,600 nominees, 1,100 crew members, and a 400 million global audience, boosting Lagos’ economy through tourism and job creation.The official hosting certificate will be presented to Lagos on May 13, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike in Kakindawa village, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, has resulted in the death of 16 vigilantes. The incident occurred when the vigilante group was on its way to assist neighbors in Tungar Kara village, who had been attacked by bandits. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) carried out a coordinated air and ground assault on Fakai Hills in Zamfara State, neutralizing scores of bandits loyal to notorious kingpin Kachallah Bello Turji. The operation resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped victims and inflicted heavy casualties on Turji's network. The state government has commended the Nigerian military's efforts in the renewed onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State and commiserated with the families of the civilian casualties affected by the airstrike at Tungar Kara in Zurmi LGA.

The pioneer leader of the Abia State Caucus of the ruling party has urged Governor Alex Otti to defect from the Labour Party to secure his re-election in upcoming polls, echoing a similar public call made by the Senate President. Supporters of the move argue that the governor will face significant political hurdles if he attempts to run again on his current platform. However, the state and national leadership of the Labour Party have firmly dismissed the pressure, asserting that Governor Otti remains fully committed to the party and its developmental ideology. They defended their platform by contrasting its achievements in infrastructure and human empowerment with the governance records of opposition-led states, insisting that the governor has no intentions of leaving the party.

Suspected terrorists linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West African Province launched a deadly attack in the Dumba community of Borno State, killing at least forty farmers and fishermen who had ventured beyond military-cleared security corridors. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum strongly condemned the violence and urged the armed forces to track down the perpetrators, while reminding civilians to strictly stay within safe zones to avoid landmines and terrorist hideouts. In a related update, the Chief of Defence Staff addressed separate military operations, detailing strategies to disrupt terrorist financing through international collaboration, noting that the National Assembly is working to provide the Army with the funding needed to handle these ongoing security challenges.

Professionals in Nigeria's aviation industry are increasingly concerned about unruly passenger behavior and related safety issues at airports. During the 2025 Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Safety Week in Lagos, experts highlighted a surge in incidents over the past decade, with a disruptive event occurring in one out of every 568 flights, often due to verbal abuse and intoxication. Yakubu Dati, a former commissioner, emphasized the need for effective conflict management strategies that incorporate negotiation and safety management systems. He noted that various conflicts in aviation, from labor disputes to communication breakdowns, threaten operational efficiency and safety if unmanaged. FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, announced initiatives like training personnel in conflict de-escalation, improving passenger processes, and fostering a culture of professionalism to enhance safety. David Zacharias, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards, stressed the importance of continual safety improvements and collaboration among stakeholders. Roland Iyayi, from the Airline Operators of Nigeria, called for the employment of qualified personnel to better manage crises at airports.

In February and March, congresses were scheduled for party official elections in Ondo State by the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, concerns about potential conflicts arose due to a rivalry between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. This tension escalated into violence during a ward congress in Odode-Idanre, resulting in two deaths and injuries. The discord seems rooted in power struggles, as party factions align with either Aiyedatiwa or Tunji-Ojo, despite public displays of unity during official events. Rumors of orchestrated attacks at a stakeholders' meeting suggested deeper divisions, with allegations targeting the governor's camp. The governor denied involvement, attributing the violence to supporters of various aspirants. Party insiders point out that Tunji-Ojo's outreach efforts have gained him favor, portraying Aiyedatiwa as neglectful of party needs and stability.

Super Falcons forward Rahseedat Ajibade is anticipating a tough clash against Australia, After missing the opening game against Canada due to suspension,appearing in her second world cup and tagged as one of the key players for Nigeria, the Atletico Madrid Feminine forward said she is looking forward to the encounter.“Personally, I’m fine. Really pumped up for the game. It’s going to be a difficult game because we’re playing the host team in front of their own fans and at their own stadium with so much crowd. A lot of factors.Barring any knock in the team, I think we’ve got this. I trust the team. We have the capacity; we have the talent and we have the energy.

The United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa will conduct an open hearing on November 20, 2025, regarding President Donald Trump's redesignation of Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC). This designation, pending Senate ratification, would enable the US to impose sanctions on Nigerian officials involved in religious persecution and signal that religious freedom in Nigeria is at risk. The hearing will be chaired by Representative Chris Smith and feature panels of US State Department officials and Nigerian religious leaders discussing the scope of religious persecution and potential policy responses.Trump's October 31 designation cited severe violations of religious freedom, especially against Christians, and threatened military action and aid cessation if the Nigerian government does not address these issues. President Bola Tinubu has challenged this characterization, asserting Nigeria's commitment to religious liberty. Meanwhile, congressional members express concern over the rising violence against Christians in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for US intervention based on the humanitarian crisis and religious persecution occurring there.

Former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), may face prolonged detention in the custody of the Department of State Services as investigations into serious allegations continue. Security sources indicate that the DSS is seeking a court order to retain him pending the conclusion of complex and sensitive probes expected to last several months. Malami was re-arrested by the DSS shortly after perfecting bail and securing release from the Kuje Correctional Centre, where he had been detained over allegations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He, alongside his wife and son, is facing 16 counts of money laundering and conspiracy involving alleged concealment of illicit proceeds valued at about N8.7bn. Investigators are also questioning Malami over terrorism financing allegations, including his handling of a terror financiers list released by the United Arab Emirates and an alleged arms cache. The case highlights intensified post-tenure scrutiny of senior public officials in Nigeria.

The Association of Alternative Power Suppliers of Nigeria has expressed the readiness to develop mini grids to augment electricity generation and supply in the country. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission recently unveiled the Draft Mini-Grid Regulation 2016, saying mini grids could be used as a bridge technology to accelerate electrification activities. NERC said the mini-grid regulation was specifically designed to accelerate electrification in areas without any existing distribution grid and areas with an existing but poorly electrified or non-functional distribution grid, especially but not limited to rural areas. The President, AAPSN and Managing Director, AOS Orwell, Mr. Femi Omotayo, said members of the association would provide alternative power mainly through embedded generation projects to fill the supply gap in the power sector. According to Abiola-Odunowo, the association’s plan is to find 10 companies in each local government that can generate one megawatt to start with. He said the mini-grid regulation would afford alternative power producers the opportunity to go to the consumers directly.

The 1976 set of Eko Boys High School, Mushin, Lagos State, has pledged to support their alma mater with welfare projects.The set, under the Eko Boys High School Old Students Association ’76, made this known on Saturday during the 50th anniversary of their graduation held along Ogudu Road, Ojota area of the state.Speaking with newsmen at the event, the EKOBA ’76 President, Johnson Adeyoye, said the association plans to donate a sick bay to the school as part of its interventions.“For the school, we are donating a healing sick bay where first aid can be administered. We’ve been buying the materials needed and keeping them in the school.He added that the sick bay would provide basic healthcare services to students, while serious medical cases would be referred to appropriate health facilities.“We are doing this because we know that the government cannot do everything. There are many competing demands requiring government intervention, and it cannot address all of them at once,” he said.

The Federal Government has concluded security and background checks on nominees for diplomatic roles across its one hundred and nine missions globally, yet the transmission of a consolidated list to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu remains delayed. Although the vetting process by agencies such as the Department of State Services is complete, the rollout has been stalled by financial constraints estimated at one billion dollars needed for capital expenditure, arrears, and mission renovations, alongside the President's reluctance to divert funds from pressing domestic reforms, lingering international pressure, and last-minute adjustments to the list of career and political ambassadorial nominees.

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has warned the newly-elected chairmen of the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 additional Local Council Development Areas in the state against short-changing their people. Amosun gave this warning during the swearing-in ceremony for them at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. The new chairmen, all of the ruling All Progressives Congress, were declared winners of the 57 chairmanship seats by the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission in the last Saturday’s council elections in the state. Amosun urged them to see their new status as a “call to service” and urged them to be “transparent, accountable and not short-change the people” lest they would be called to give account of their stewardship to President Muhammadu Buhari’s government of probity. The governor said the position they occupied should be for the growth and development of the people, not for settling political scores.

Tobi Amusan, the world women's 100m hurdles champion and record holder, is missing from Team Nigeria's list of 26 athletes for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary. The list includes 11 male and 15 female athletes, with Ese Brume, Ruth Usoro, Sade Olatoye, and Chioma Onyekwere among the prominent females. The list also includes national champion Usheoritshe Itshekiri, Favour Ashe, Seye Ogunlewe, Alaba Akintola, Fakorede Adekalu, and Anunagba Karlington. Amusan's participation at the championship has been uncertain due to her provisional suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit for missing three drug tests this season. The Athletics Integrity Unit has stated that there will be a hearing on her case before the World Championships, but nothing has been heard about the proceedings. Amusan made history at the championships last year, racing to a new world record time of 12.12secs in the semi-finals and 12.06secs in the final to clinch the gold medal.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reported a surge in unbanked money, reaching N3.79tn in June 2024, a significant increase from N3.61tn in April. This has hindered the Central Bank of Nigeria's ability to effectively implement its policies and manage the country's economy. The Central Bank of Nigeria has been promoting financial inclusion through campaigns, but many Nigerians still lack basic banking knowledge. The increasing volume of cash outside the banking system has also raised concerns about potential cash pool inflation. The total currency in circulation increased to N4.05tn in June, while the Central Bank of Nigeria special intervention fund decreased by 35.7%. This reduction could be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria's strategy to manage the country's money supply and stabilize the economy, but it also exacerbates difficulties banks face in meeting recapitalisation demands. The Central Bank of Nigeria's net foreign assets have increased to N18.33tn, signaling strength in the country's external reserves, but net domestic assets have slightly decreased.

Residents of the IyiowaOdekpe community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested against Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), accusing them of operating like a "mafia organization" and claiming systematic extortion and intimidation for several months. The community members alleged that EEDC gives them an estimated monthly billing of over N80,000, which they said is more than the minimum monthly wage. They demanded the immediate provision of prepaid meters, the cancellation of accumulated arrears resulting from inflated bills, and the restoration of electricity supply. The Chairman of the IyiowaOdekpe Landlords and Tenants Association, Chief Sunday Obinze, decried the hardship imposed on the community by EEDC, stating that the bills sent to postpaid users range between N80,000 and N130,000 monthly. The community previously paid between N18,000 and N28,000 monthly before the recent billing surge. The Secretary of the association, Dr. Okolie Chukwunonso, echoed Obinze's sentiments, calling on NERC to intervene and properly regulate EEDC to prevent further suffering of ordinary residents. The protesters called for urgent intervention by the government and regulatory bodies to ensure fair billing, provision of prepaid meters, and restoration of electricity. However, the Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC, EmekaEzeh, noted the concerns and stated that the challenge of power supply is a national concern and not peculiar to EEDC or the South East region.

Capital Oil Chairman Ifeanyi Ubah has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of a fraudulent primary in the November 18 governorship election in Anambra State. Ubah alleged that the primary was a sham and that the party had the right to trample on its constitution and the Electoral Act. He stated that the list of delegates used for the election was different from the list given to the Independent National Electoral Commission. Ubah, a loyal member of the PDP, described the Anambra governorship primary as a "show of shame" with obvious irregularities. He accused the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and some party committee members of robbing the people of their dream for a potential governor.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out one of nine counts of $1.6bn crude oil fraud against businessman Jide Omokore and five others. Justice Nnamdi Dimgba struck out the eighth count after hearing an application by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who alleged she was indicted without an opportunity to defend herself. The six defendants include Omokore, his companies Atlantic Energy Brass Development Limited and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concepts Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had preferred nine counts of criminal diversion of about $1.6bn, alleged to be part of proceeds of sales of petroleum products belonging to the Federal Government. Alison-Madueke, currently in the UK, was not listed among the existing six defendants in the case to defend the charge.

 

 

 

The old guard of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) has demanded that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) grant the ANPP bloc the 2031 presidential ticket to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027. The Association of Former ANPP Members, led by Prof. Vitalis Ajumbe, criticized the APC leadership for sidelining ANPP members in political appointments since the merger in 2013. Ajumbe urged Tinubu to ensure fairness by backing the ANPP, highlighting the need for increased representation of former ANPP members in key positions. Despite their grievances, the ANPP bloc pledged to support Tinubu's re-election and mobilize across local government areas. APC officials deemed the demands premature, emphasizing the need to focus on the upcoming 2027 elections.

Princess Shola Daibo, a candidate of the Accord Party in the upcoming by-election into the Delta State House of Assembly in Warri-South Constituency 1, has accused the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission of plotting to rig the election. Daibo stated that forces within the APC had concluded plans to rig the election in favour of their candidate. The Accord Party is fielding Daibo for the election scheduled for Wednesday, 26 April, 2017, by INEC. The assembly seat became vacant following the death of Mrs. Omawumi Udoh at a London hospital. After the seat was declared vacant, INEC announced a by-election for Wednesday, April 26, 2017. The Accord Party has condemned the act of cowardice and warned that any attempt to rig the election will be maximally resisted. The party has also reported that the APC lacked the capacity to match the grassroots spread of the Accord Party in Warri-South and had resorted to deploying machinery to emasculate the party and its candidate. The party has also reported on various other news, such as the Niger coup, fire gutting the house of David Church in Lagos, fake customs CG arrests, and the AFCON 2023 fixtures.

In an effort to enhance cargo clearance efficiency, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) launched the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) application, engaging stakeholders such as importers and exporters. Zonal Coordinator Mohammed Babandede described OSS as a technology-driven solution that aims to streamline processes, cut cargo dwell time from 21 days to 48 hours, and recover additional revenue through improved tracking. The initiative seeks to minimize wage costs and reduce port congestion by consolidating multiple checks into a unified process. Stakeholders raised concerns about potential continued interception by Customs outside the ports and delays caused by other government agencies. The OSS initiative is positioned as a significant advancement in Nigeria’s trade facilitation, aligning with global standards while addressing local issues.

The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, has achieved a historic milestone in October 2025 by generating N304 billion in revenue, marking the highest monthly collection recorded by any customs command. This represents an increase from the N264 billion collected in October 2024, bringing total revenue for the first 10 months of 2025 to N2.4 trillion, which surpassed the entire revenue of 2024 two months before year-end. Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba attributed this achievement to increased efficiency, officer dedication, and technological advancements in trade facilitation. He announced a forthcoming "drive-through scanning" system projected to process 150 containers per hour, reducing clearance time and enhancing transparency, thereby boosting investor confidence. Furthermore, targeting improvements in port operations, Oshoba has conducted unannounced visits to engage stakeholders to speed up cargo evacuations and emphasized a collaborative approach with the Nigerian Ports Authority to enhance the effectiveness of the Apapa Port, which is vital to Nigeria's import economy. He confirmed that efforts would continue to prevent revenue losses and ensure compliance among importers.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared Tony Nwoye, winner of the August 26, 2017 Anambra State APC primary, as the party's standard bearer in the state governorship election. The decision was made at a meeting of the party's National Working Committee, which considered the report of an appeal panel investigating a petition filed by Senator Andy Uba. The committee stated that the integrity of the exercise was not in dispute. Nwoye had to cancel a press conference to fill the Independent National Electoral Commission's nomination forms before the deadline.

Supporters of Chief Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and Dr. Olusegun Abraham clashed during a peaceful protest in Akure, Nigeria. Abraham's supporters were protesting against Akeredolu's candidacy for the November 2016 governorship election. The protesters were attacked by APC youths carrying Akeredolu's posters and weapons. The clash resulted in the destruction of vehicles and deserted Oyemekun Road, where the secretariat was located. No life was lost, but the situation was calmed by additional policemen. Abraham, a preferred candidate of the party's National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, criticized the incident as uncivilized and urged the APC leadership to let the right candidate be chosen. He emphasized that Akeredolu could not win the upcoming election for the state without his mandate restored. Akeredolu's Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Adesanya, denied that the protesters were members of the APC in the state.

Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling all progressives congress' National working committee may clash with  the partys' governors over a plan  by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chairman of the party.s'  THE Development followed the sudden iyiola omisore as the  party national chairman and nationalsecretary, respectively.THE Crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led  Adamu and Omisore to resign from their positions  after they were accused of high -handedness and financial mismanagement.however findings by punch  revealed that Ganduje were opposed by the numbers of choice.

Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling all progressives congress' National working committee may clash with  the partys' governors over a plan  by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chairman of the party.s'  THE Development followed the sudden iyiola omisore as the  party national chairman and nationalsecretary, respectively.THE Crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led  Adamu and Omisore to resign from their positions  after they were accused of high -handedness and financial mismanagement.however findings by punch  revealed that Ganduje were opposed by the numbers of choice.

Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling aLL progressive congress' National working commitee may clash e NWC.some APC NWC members who spoke to PUNCH said they were opposed to the governors'  plan ,insisting that the office had been zoned to central geopolitical zone.Ganduje is from North west Geopolitical zone.Continuing, Lukman urged the president to speak up to douse the tension and intervene on time with the ultimate aim of returning the APC to its founding vision of progressive politics.with partys' governors over a plan by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chaiman of the party.  The development followed the sudden exit of senator Iyiola Omisore as the party s' national chairman and national secretary, respectively. The crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led Admu Omisore to resign from their positions after they were accused of high-handedness and financial mismanagement by some members of th

The ruling political party in Ekiti State has dismissed the opposition party's ambition to unseat the incumbent governor in the upcoming governorship election as an impossible mission, arguing that the governor has delivered exceptional achievements in infrastructure, salary payments, and project development while the opposition remains deeply fractured and disorganized. In contrast, an opposition pressure group and regional party representatives have urged their members to set aside their differences and build a united front, claiming that the current administration has failed to provide adequate value for the state's financial resources and asserting that voters are eagerly waiting for the upcoming election to express their dissatisfaction and vote for change.

The Ekiti State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said he is alerted to a plot by some individuals and political interests in the All Progressives Congress to activate a spate of negative media campaigns to discredit and portray him as unacceptable to the generality of the people. The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, advised those behind the plot to concentrate on their aspiration rather than engaging in character assassination. The Nigerian Constitution states clearly the qualifications for the position of the President of the country. Every qualified adult has the right to aspire to the number one position, but it is not appropriate to destroy the reputation of a fellow citizen who is perceived as a possible opponent. PUNCH is offering Nigerians up to $14,000- $17,000 (12 million+) in US Dollars through premium domain names and a sharp flusher to save their family from toilet snakes and poop blockages.

The Ekiti State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said he is alerted to a plot by some individuals and political interests in the All Progressives Congress to activate a spate of negative media campaigns to discredit and portray him as unacceptable to the generality of the people. The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, advised those behind the plot to concentrate on their aspiration rather than engaging in character assassination. The Nigerian Constitution states clearly the qualifications for the position of the President of the country. Every qualified adult has the right to aspire to the number one position, but it is not appropriate to destroy the reputation of a fellow citizen who is perceived as a possible opponent. PUNCH is offering Nigerians up to $14,000- $17,000 (12 million+) in US Dollars through premium domain names and a sharp flusher to save their family from toilet snakes and poop blockages.

The All Progressives Congress on Thursday slammed the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, for criticising the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which upheld President Bola Tinubu’s election and the electoral process. This happened as Atiku and Obi attacked the Independent National Electoral Commission over its conduct of the polls. The five-member tribunal had nullified the petitions of Atiku and Obi in the 12-hour judgment delivered on Wednesday. However, speaking on the development during a press conference at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, Atiku said his belief that the PEPC’s judgment left a lot to be desired convinced him to direct his legal team to approach the Supreme Court for redress. The former vice president slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission for poor management of the last general elections which he said the judiciary had a duty to redress. The LP presidential candidate, Obi, has similarly criticised Wednesday’s judgment of the PEPT. The ex-Anambra State governor averred that it was “not conterminous” with justice, adding that everything about the presidential election was not yet over. He insisted the matter had not yet reached its logical conclusion.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has emphasized the importance of the South-East region in Nigeria's presidential race. He emphasized the need for the South-East to join the APC, as it represents the most viable route for any South-East person to the presidency. Odigie-Oyegun also welcomed Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a former Deputy National Chairman to the Modu Sherrif-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, into the APC. He emphasized the need to win the November 18, 2017 Anambra State governorship election to end the cry of marginalisation by the South-East. He emphasized the importance of unity of purpose and working hard to make Anambra a critical state in the South-East. He emphasized the need for unity among all those aspiring to the governorship seat.

Top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have ruled out the granting of automatic tickets to governors, including Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who joined the party recently, as well as Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who is expected to join soon.A member of the APC National Working Committee (NWC), who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment on the issue, explained that defection from another political party to the APC does not guarantee an automatic ticket.Supporting this position, the APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, described the ruling party as democratic and progressive, stressing that all members would be allowed to fully enjoy and exercise their rights.“As is usually the case in the APC, they try to lure you in, and once you are in, they do not provide the ground rules. By the time you realise, it becomes difficult to exit. We are not surprised because the APC will promise them many things, and they may not fulfil any of them.“This situation is usually far from palatable for the governors, and it often leaves them frustrated, with their political expectations unmet and their ambitions constrained by party realities.”

The ruling All Progressives Congress criticized the opposition Peoples Democratic Party for turning recent deadly food distribution stampedes into a political issue to blame President Bola Tinubu's government for widespread poverty and hunger. In response to the accusations, the ruling party called the opposition's statements heartless and hypocritical during a time of national mourning, pointing out that similar deadly stampedes occurred due to poor management when the opposition was in power. The ruling party maintained that the current administration remains dedicated to public welfare and that its economic reforms are successfully repairing years of past mismanagement.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to send emissaries to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to investigate his grievances against the party. The party may apply sanctions if found guilty. The Organising Secretary of the Adamawa State chapter of the APC, Ahmed Lawan, said plans to address the issue have been delayed by members of the state exco traveling to Saudi Arabia to observe the hajj. The party is concerned about recent utterances credited to the former vice-president, including his remarks that the party abandoned him. Lawan said the party is surprised by the former vice-president's alleged selflessness and the party's failure to reward him. The party plans to summon a meeting with Atiku and take a decision if he lodges complaints.

Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has announced that the All Progressives Congress will lead evidence at the election petitions tribunal to show how the Peoples Democratic Party allegedly benefited from electoral fraud during the recent governorship poll. Oshiomhole defended the PDP's candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was allegedly denied victory in the election, stating that he is not worth 50,000 votes. He expressed satisfaction with the APC's performance in the September 28 election and emphasized that the victory signaled the final political "funeral" of the PDP godfathers. Obaseki promised to run an all-inclusive government and commended the Islamic council for their support before and during the election. He also urged the governor-elect to be resolute in achieving his objectives and to be accessible to the citizens of the state. Obaseki's tenure will end on November 12.

The ruling All Progressives Congress and major opposition parties have expressed sharply differing opinions regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission proposal for one hundred and twenty-five billion naira in the 2025 budget to cover ongoing operations and begin early preparations for the 2027 general election. The Peoples Democratic Party strongly criticized the request, labeling the funds as reward money for electoral misconduct and arguing that the commission lacks any moral justification for such a massive sum after receiving over two hundred billion naira in the preceding three years. Similarly, the New Nigeria Peoples Party questioned the necessity of the large allocation during a non-election year and urged the electoral body to implement cost-saving measures, such as partnering with banks for voter registration. Conversely, the African Democratic Congress and the Labour Party defended the funding needs, noting that the commission carries a heavy operational burden caused by frequent litigations, political thuggery, and the extensive management of party primaries, though they emphasized the need for absolute transparency and improved electoral credibility. Meanwhile, the ruling party urged the public to withhold judgment until the commission provides a detailed financial breakdown, pointing out that its responsibilities extend far beyond conducting elections to include continuous voter registration, political party monitoring, and handling off-season polls.

The ruling political party has criticized the former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, following his recent meetings with major opposition figures and northern leaders ahead of the upcoming presidential election. After failing to secure a government cabinet position, the former governor has been rallying political opposition against the current administration and warning that the ruling party risks losing power due to a deteriorating relationship with the northern region. In response, party officials dismissed him as a disgruntled regional champion pursuing a sectional agenda out of personal grievance. Meanwhile, the main opposition party has welcomed the possibility of working with him and other critics to rescue the country, praising its own platform as an inclusive space that respects the rule of law and democratic principles.

As the Supreme Court today hears the appeals challenging the electoral victory of President Bola Tinubu, the ruling All Progressives Congress has expressed confidence that the President will come out victorious. Tinubu's victory in the February 25 presidential poll is being challenged by the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party. Displeased with the verdict of the PEPC, both parties and their candidates, Atiku Abubakar (PDP) and Peter Obi (LP) proceeded to the Supreme Court, which has fixed today for hearing. Speaking on Sunday ahead of today's hearing, the APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, told The PUNCH the opposition would lose again. But the PDP expressed optimism that the Supreme Court will sack Tinubu and declare Atiku as winner.

A presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) will be voted out in the 2027 general elections.He insisted that alleged legal and administrative manoeuvres against opposition parties would not derail Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.Olawepo-Hashim, a pro-democracy activist, accused the ruling APC of actions aimed at weakening opposition participation ahead of the next election cycle, describing such moves as a threat to democratic competition in the country.He described the development as a warning sign of democratic backsliding and urged Nigerians and the international community to remain vigilant.Olawepo-Hashim called on “lovers of democracy across the world” to consider lawful accountability measures against individuals allegedly working to undermine Nigeria’s multiparty system, including travel restrictions and asset freezes, where supported by credible evidence and due process.He expressed confidence that Nigerians would peacefully remove the APC from power through the ballot in 2027.

Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has dropped the names of two influential politicians, Muyiwa and Temitope Ilori, from his cabinet list. Aregbesola was re-elected for his second term in office in November 2014 and has run the government without a cabinet since then. The list of nominees sent to the House of Assembly for confirmation included a former senator representing Osun West in the Senate, Husein Mudasiru, and 38 others as commissioner and special adviser-designates. The House of Assembly was filled to capacity as families, friends, and well-wishers of the nominees stormed the place to get first-hand information on the confirmation process. The list also included former Chief Press Secretary to Akande, Special Adviser of Environment, Senior Special Adviser to Aregbesola on Electronic Broadcast, and Commissioner for Special Duties.

At least six people have been killed in the Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State due to attacks by suspected armed herders. Among the victims was a retired Warrant Officer, killed in Asa 2, and five others, including a former councillor, killed during a Tuesday morning attack. Local authorities attributed these attacks to bandits posing as herders, and community volunteers had been on alert following an earlier kidnapping attempt. The attackers looted food and valuables during their assaults, and the state has witnessed a surge in violence from armed groups, linked by some to the aftermath of US airstrikes on ISWAP camps and seasonal migrations of herders seeking grazing land. Authorities are investigating the incidents and seeking to apprehend the attackers.

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.

Lagos-based lawyer Olukoya Ogungbeje has filed a N50bn suit against President Muhammadu Buhari, the Department of State Services (DSS), and its Director-General, Lawal Daura, for allegedly violating the rights of judges whose houses were raided by DSS operatives between October 8 and 9. The suit seeks an order awarding N50bn as "general and exemplary damages," N2m as the cost of the suit, an order compelling the DSS to return the recovered money to the judges, and a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from arresting, inviting, intimidating, or harassing the judges. The DSS had arrested Justices Sylvester Ngwuta and John Okoro of the Supreme Court, Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and Justice Muazu Pindiga of the Federal High Court, Gombe Division. The seven of them have since been released on self-recognition by the DSS. Ogungbeje's suit is restricted to five of the arrested judges, who are still in active service.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has announced his intention to run for the presidency in 2019, turning himself into an opposition figure for his own party, the All Progressives Congress. In an interview with the Voice of America in Hausa, Atiku criticized the Buhari-led administration, claiming that he was dumped by the government despite spending his resources on ensuring the President's rise to power in 2015. This came just hours after the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Senator Aisha Alhassan, declared her readiness to support Atiku's bid for the presidency against President Buhari. Alhassan confirmed that she would support Atiku in 2019 because "President Buhari has not told anybody that he would contest the 2019 presidential election." However, political pundits believe Alhassan could not have openly declared her support for Atiku without the backing of other party members. The 2019 presidential election is expected to cause clashes among Buhari's and Atiku's supporters, as they may not have the same level of support.

The police said on Sunday that they had launched an investigation into an alleged assassination attempt on the Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. The Commissioner for Information in Kogi State, Kingsley Fanwo, had in a statement on Sunday said some gunmen in military uniform made an assassination attempt on the governor, who was travelling to Abuja from Lokoja. Fanwo said the incident happened around 4pm on Sunday a few kilometres away from Abuja. He said the attacks were at three different points, the last barricade being around Kwali, Federal Capital Territory at about 4.20pm. The state called on the citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements in their domains to relevant security agencies.

Members of the Ahmadu Bello University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities demonstrated against the alleged forcible takeover of the university's property by Kaduna state Governor Mallam Nasir EL-Rufai on Monday.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its nine months strike due to the non-payment of salaries of its members. The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council intervened and promised to prevail on the Federal Government to implement the N52.5bn Revitalisation Fund and Earned Academic Allowance. The Minister of State for Education has said there is no justification for a strike, and Mercy Chepaka has appealed to the government to not hire lecturers from the moon.

The Federal Government said the platform presented by the ASUU as its preferred alternative to the integrated perssonnel and payroll information system know as UTAS has failed.

The joint committee of ASUU, NUC and NITDA is set to submit the report of the integrity test on the University Transparency Accountability Solution (UTAS) on Tuesday. ASUU has demanded the deployment of the UTAS payment platform instead of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

ATLAS Core Energy and Logistics Limited is constructing a compressed natural gas refuelling station in Oyo State, in collaboration with the Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Service under a 20-year public-private partnership. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025 and operational by January 2026, this project aims to enhance clean energy transition, improve transportation reliability, and support Governor Seyi Makinde’s initiatives for energy security and lower fuel costs. Dikko Salami, Sole Administrator of Pacesetter Transport Service, highlighted the affordability of compressed natural gas compared to traditional fuels and its significance in reducing operational delays. The new station will serve as a service hub for residents and businesses, reflecting a commitment to sustainable energy infrastructure. Emmanuel Owoade, Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Core Energy, emphasized the project's potential for creating jobs, enhancing local expertise, and aid economic opportunities in Oyo State.

Avanti Communications has been named the market-leading high-throughput satellite capacity partner in sub-Saharan Africa for the second year running.

A statement said the results from the 20th edition of the NSR Satellite Capacity Supply and Demand Analysis reported that Avanti’s market share was now more than two times its nearest competitor.

“NSR’s annual report is one of the satellite industry’s most trusted and comprehensive sources for satellite capacity analysis, offering insight into key market developments and dynamics,” it stated. 

According to the statement, Avanti had made a significant commitment to Africa. The company has ambitions to accelerate growth across the region through local partnerships and the rollout of connectivity solutions; connecting rural communities and improving network resiliency for critical communications infrastructure is central to this strategy.

It said till date, Avanti had connected more than 1,000 villages and schools across Africa, providing services in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Ghana, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and South Sudan.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasized that tax removal in the aviation sector requires collective government approval and cannot be unilaterally decided by him. Speaking at an event in Abuja marking 100 years of aviation in Nigeria, he noted that legislative review is necessary for any tax adjustments. Keyamo highlighted the infrastructure deficit as a major challenge for aviation growth and underscored the need for functional airport hubs to facilitate international transit. He also pointed out that finance and aircraft leasing access are significant obstacles to airline expansion. Despite challenges, he believes Nigeria's market capacity and population offer a favorable outlook for the industry, although concerns remain regarding the removal of certain tax exemptions affecting operations.

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno announced an allocation of over N800m for the empowerment of non-indigenous communities, including Ndi Igbo, Arewa, Yoruba, and the Niger Delta. Speaking at the Igbo Unity Day Celebration, he emphasized his administration’s commitment to unity and inclusivity, recognizing the Igbos' contributions to the state’s economy. Eno praised the community's leadership for promoting peace and unity, stating that Akwa Ibom is evolving into a melting pot of cultures. He expressed gratitude for their support and commitment to sustaining harmonious relations, provided they adhere to laws. The President of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Kayceey Chidiadi, commended Eno's leadership for fostering community harmony and noted their inclusion in government positions.

In his autobiography, A Journey of Service, former military president Ibrahim Babangida argued that Nigeria failed to maximize its oil boom years due to nationwide profligacy, conspicuous consumption, and poor economic planning that deepened the country's import dependency and ruined agriculture. Babangida defended his administration's controversial spending of the twelve point four billion dollars oil windfall from the Gulf War, maintaining that the funds were monetized and directed toward critical national infrastructure and legacy projects like Ajaokuta rather than stolen. Furthermore, he blamed previous regimes for fostering an environment of public corruption and economic imbalance through state-dominated enterprises, asserting that his government's homegrown Structural Adjustment Programme and painful reforms were necessary steps to correct an overvalued currency and rescue a perilous economy.

During the second matriculation ceremony of the Nigerian British University, Abia State Governor Alex Otti advised students to combine their academic studies with practical skills, innovative thinking, and leadership abilities to thrive in today's competitive global environment. Represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Uche, Dr Otti disclosed that the state government dedicates twenty percent of its over seven hundred billion Naira annual budget to the education sector and maintains a free education policy to eliminate learning barriers. Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, announced that the institution has expanded its offerings to twenty-four approved courses across five faculties and formally welcomed one hundred and sixty-two new students into twenty-three of those programs. He urged the students to maintain high standards of character and discipline, warning them against cultism, examination malpractice, and other anti-social behaviors while making the most of the university's facilities.

The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has dismissed reports of an alleged plot to impeach Senate President Godswill Akpabio, insisting that there is no crisis or division within the upper legislative chamber. His clarification followed remarks by former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, who disclosed that there had been previous attempts by some senators to remove Akpabio, although such efforts failed due to interventions aimed at preserving unity in the Senate. Bamidele emphasized that senators remain focused on addressing pressing national issues and enacting legislation that will improve the welfare of Nigerians rather than engaging in political scheming. The controversy has revived memories of earlier rumours of impeachment plots and internal disagreements that have trailed Akpabio's leadership since his emergence as Senate President in June 2023. Speculations of executive interference, disputes over legislative autonomy, and reports of tensions among key senators have repeatedly generated concerns about the stability of the 10th Senate. Despite these persistent allegations, Senate leaders have consistently denied the existence of any plan to unseat Akpabio, maintaining that the chamber remains united and committed to supporting governance and promoting national development through people-oriented legislation.

The Federal Government has initiated Operation Savannah Shield, a multi-agency security operation aimed at addressing the rising insecurity in Kwara State and parts of Niger State. Launched by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq with military leaders present, the operation responds to recent terrorist and bandit attacks in the Kaiama area and surrounding communities. The governor emphasized its importance for both national and food security, given the affected regions' role in farming. The Chief of Defence Staff highlighted that the operation is proactive and intelligence-driven, focusing on dismantling criminal networks and restoring order. It will involve a joint task force from the Army, Navy, and Air Force and is expected to implement both kinetic and non-kinetic measures, while seeking community collaboration for effective intelligence sharing. Security experts attribute the increased violence to spillover effects from neighboring regions and exploitation of local forests by criminal groups.

The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Bemgba Koughna, has visited Tidibale community in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, assuring residents who were recently displaced by bandit attacks of strengthened and sustained military protection.The visit, described as his first major field engagement since assuming command of the division, comes amid mounting pressure on security forces to stabilise rural settlements across the North-West, a region that has battled banditry, mass abductions and widespread displacement for several years.Security analysts have consistently noted that sustained military presence, effective inter-agency collaboration and active community participation will be essential to consolidating recent gains.Military authorities said the 8 Division would continue to reinforce its deployments and work closely with local stakeholders “to achieve durable peace and security across Sokoto State and the wider North-West.”

The Oyo State Government has initiated the development of the Oluyole Free Trade Zone through a Joint Venture Agreement with Euro FMCG Universal Beverages Limited as part of its strategy to promote industrialisation and attract global investment. Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the project will serve as a model of excellence and innovation by generating thousands of jobs, encouraging value creation, and fostering shared prosperity for residents. The governor emphasised that his administration has focused on creating an investor-friendly environment through infrastructural development, improved ease of doing business, and policies that support private sector participation. The first phase of the project, known as the CGM-Oluyole Free Trade Zone, covers 500 hectares and is expected to establish an investment ecosystem that will expand industrial capacity and boost export-led growth. Representatives of Euro FMCG Universal Beverages Limited expressed commitment to commencing operations immediately, with expectations that the project will increase employment opportunities, facilitate exports, and enhance state revenue generation. Located along the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road corridor, the free trade zone is projected to become a major catalyst for economic transformation, positioning Oyo State as a leading centre for industrial growth and investment in Nigeria.

Stakeholders from the Kontagora Emirate Council in Niger State have convened an emergency security summit to address the growing cases of banditry in the state.The stakeholders who have cited the recent killing of soldiers during a bloody clash  with bandits within the emirate declared that “enough is enough.”The emirate’s leadership and residents also vowed never to allow the bandits to terrorise the communities within the area.As a result, the emirate decided  to hold the emergency security summit to find what it described as “workable solutions” to ending the challenges in the area.Arewa Punch reports that the local government areas within the emirate council, made up of Kontagora, Mariga, Magama, Rijau, Wushishi and Mashegun have suffered regular attacks from gunmen suspected to be herdsmen, making life miserable for the people, particularly the farmers who, they said, have been forced to abandon their farms and homes.The Speaker further disclosed that the summit, billed for Saturday, July 5th at the Emir of Kontagora’s Palace, would serve as a platform to share insights and collaborate on strategies to adopt to overcome the security challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of the communities.

The House of Representatives urged the Federal Government to establish a permanent and well-equipped military base across several communities in Zamfara State to combat escalating banditry. During Tuesday's plenary, lawmaker Hassan Shinkafi moved the motion, decrying how continuous attacks, killings, and kidnappings in the Shinkafi and Zurmi areas have left over forty villages deserted and restricted access to farmlands, markets, and schools. While acknowledging state-level security measures and commendable efforts by military personnel, Shinkafi criticized the premature withdrawal of troops after a brief two-week deployment, which allowed criminal networks to resurface. Adopting the motion, the House called for increased multi-agency security collaboration, mandated the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to distribute immediate relief supplies to displaced residents, and noted a separate incident in Katsina State where police confirmed that security operatives are actively working to rescue three remaining university students abducted from their residence.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, disclosed that more than one thousand households have been displaced due to a series of violent attacks by bandits across various communities within an eleven-day period. While hosting international humanitarian officials at the Government House in Makurdi, the governor outlined the severe challenges faced by over five hundred thousand displaced persons living across multiple camps and host communities, who are struggling with inadequate shelter, limited clean water, and poor healthcare. Although the state government has partnered with international agencies to enroll vulnerable individuals in health insurance schemes, provide land, and build shelters, Governor Alia emphasized his administration's ongoing commitment to tackling the root causes of displacement, protecting vulnerable groups, and restoring peace and social justice to the affected areas.

Over 600 residents of Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State have been displaced by a banditry attack shortly after the Sallah celebration. The attack occurred in four communities, including Lanta, Tunga, Dnakau, and Juweedna, and resulted in the burning of houses and rustling of cattle. The state Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management reported no reported kidnappings or deaths. The residents have criticized the persistent attacks, claiming that there was no presence of security agents in the local government, allowing bandits to operate without resistance. A tailor in Minna expressed his sadness at the situation and the lack of action taken by the government to end the reign of terror.

Twenty-three women have been kidnapped by bandits in the Damaga district of the Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The women, our correspondent was told, riding on motorcycles, swooped on them, whisking away 23. An indigene of the area, Mohammed Sani, who spoke to our correspondent about the incident, 

“We have already informed the police about this issue and we are waiting to hear from the bandits the amount of money they will ask us to pay (as ransom).” 

The villager lamented that the kidnap was one too many, noting that villagers continued to pay ransom to bandits now and then.

Meanwhile,  bandits also kidnapped 10  officials of Triacta Construction Company in Talata-Mafara, the hometown of former governor Abdulaziz Yari.

An indigene of the town, Ismail Shehu, said the weapon-wielding hoodlums fired many shots in the air before they finally forced themselves into the company and kidnapped 10 of the construction workers.

Nigeria's security crisis has intensified with coordinated bandit attacks resulting in the abduction of over 490 individuals, including monarchs, students, and worshippers, across multiple states. The Senate has urged for the enhancement of community-based policing as security agencies struggle to address the escalating violence, despite a declared nationwide security emergency. Incidents report abductions and attacks from Sokoto to Kogi, with specific cases including the kidnapping of 38 worshippers, students, and a traditional ruler whose captors demanded a ransom of N150 million. Various officials have called for a more localized approach to security, emphasizing the role of community efforts in combating banditry. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria criticized the government's current strategies, asserting a lack of urgency and effectiveness in addressing terrorism and advocating for a more aggressive stance against perpetrators.

The National President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Baba Ngelzarma, has raised an alarm over the rising target and killing of the association's leaders by gunmen across several states, calling on both federal and state governments to urgently provide protection. This plea follows the recent killing of the association's acting Katsina State Chairman, Alhaji Amadu Surajo, who was murdered alongside three others during a late-night attack in Mai Rana village by suspected bandits, who also abducted two of his wives and his undergraduate daughter. Surajo had only taken over the leadership position three months prior following the mysterious disappearance of his predecessor, Munnir Lamido, whose whereabouts remain unknown after his vehicle and phones were found abandoned on a highway in June. As security forces deploy to the area to investigate and restore peace, local observers note growing concern over whether these recurring attacks are standard acts of banditry or targeted assassinations, while police authorities state they are awaiting a formal briefing on the incident.

The Otukpo Local Government Area in Benue State has experienced a series of deadly bandit attacks, resulting in the deaths of at least six people, including a retired army officer and a former councillor. These incidents occurred between Sunday and early Tuesday, with the attackers believed to be bandits posing as herders. They carried out shootings and abducted a woman and a child, while also looting valuables from communities. Local officials have condemned these assaults, highlighting a pattern of violence exacerbated by migration of herders into the area, and underscoring the ongoing threat to residents as security forces continue investigations and patrols to prevent further incidents.

At least 30 people were killed in separate attacks by bandits in Katsina and Kwara states on Tuesday. In Katsina, 20 villagers were reported dead in Doma community, where bandits attacked without resistance, burning homes and vehicles. The Chairman of the local government highlighted this incident as a deadly reprisal attack, marking the first of its kind in five months. Security operatives were allegedly unable to intervene in time. In Kwara, 10 villagers were killed during an assault on Woro and Nuku communities, with attackers suspected to be based in the nearby Borgu National Park. The Kwara Governor condemned the assaults as cowardly and linked them to ongoing security operations. He assured that security agencies would intensify measures to prevent further violence.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s warning regarding the influx of fleeing northern bandits into Oyo State, security forces across the South West region have significantly heightened joint measures to counteract the potential threat. In response, regional security heads convened emergency strategy meetings, while state police commands and local security outfits like Amotekun intensified forest surveillance and border patrols, particularly in vulnerable boundary areas. State authorities and traditional regional leaders emphasized that all governors in the region must remain vigilant, collaborate with military forces, and proactively address the security challenge to safeguard lives, property, and local stability.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, praised President Bola Tinubu for signing a bill that converts the Federal Polytechnic Kabo into the Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, located in Kano State. This commendation was shared in a statement by Senator Barau Jibrin's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, shortly after the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, officially read President Bola Tinubu’s letters regarding the establishment of three new universities in Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Oyo states during a legislative sitting. Senator Barau Jibrin, who personally sponsored the conversion bill, emphasized that education is absolutely essential for societal progress. He stated that the upgrade demonstrates the president's strong commitment to expanding access to higher education and developing human capital. Furthermore, Senator Barau Jibrin explained that the change aligns with global standards, as the institution will train Nigeria's large youth population in modern fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity to boost national development and economic growth. The lawmaker concluded by congratulating the management, staff, students, and local community of the institution on achieving this historic milestone.

Some currency exchange operators are still experiencing significant difficulties in meeting the new two billion naira recapitalisation threshold mandated by the Central Bank of Nigeria, despite receiving a six-month extension until June 3, 2025. According to the President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria, Aminu Gwadebe, compliance among members remains quite slow as many continue to struggle with the strict financial requirements. To navigate this challenge, operators are currently holding strategic meetings to explore mergers and collaborative options, while also continuing discussions with the apex bank to request potential reviews, even though the central bank maintains that the financial requirements are standard industry practice. Commenting on the broader economic outlook, Gwadebe noted that the stability and future strength of the naira depend heavily on robust foreign exchange market liquidity and improved supply-side interventions by the central bank. Additionally, he welcomed recent monetary policy initiatives introduced by the central bank, such as the Non-Resident Nigerian accounts designed to facilitate diaspora remittances and local investments, emphasizing that easing access to these programs will help improve foreign exchange inflows and reduce unnecessary market speculation.

The Benue State Epidemiologist, Dr Asema Msuega, on Sunday disclosed that the state has recorded seven new suspected cases of Lassa fever.Msuega noted that samples from the affected individuals have already been collected and sent for laboratory analysis for confirmation.Following the reported suspected cases, the state government has begun immediate public health response measures to address the situation.The epidemiologist said health authorities were closely monitoring developments, adding that “samples of the seven new suspected cases have been taken for confirmation.”The epidemiologist advised residents to promptly report symptoms such as fever, weakness, or unexplained bleeding to the nearest health facility, maintaining that early detection is key to effective treatment and control of the disease.The outbreak of Lassa fever has raised renewed concern among health authorities and residents of the state.

The Benue and Zamfara State Houses of Assembly have rejected summons from the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions, calling the move an unconstitutional overreach of federal legislative powers. The federal committee, chaired by Michael Etaba,summoned Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia, Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, and their respective assembly leaders to explain why the House of Representatives should not take over their state legislative functions following a petition by a group called Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which includes Emmanuel Onwudiwe. Led by Majority Leader Saater Tiseer, alongside lawmakers Bemdoo Ipusu, Michael Audu, and Peter Uche, the Benue Assembly passed a resolution instructing Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh to ignore the invitation. They argued that the National Assembly, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, was misinformed and trying to usurp the duties of an autonomous, elected state legislature. To protect its independence, the Benue Assembly filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Makurdi to block the federal intervention. Similarly, the Zamfara State House of Assembly dismissed the summons. Kabiru Dangulbi, the Zamfara House Committee Chairman on Information, declared that Governor Dauda Lawal would not attend the illegal hearing, stating that the invitation lacked legal standing under the constitution. However, Kabiru Dangulbi noted that Zamfara would not join Benue in taking legal action, expressing confidence that the federal lawmakers would eventually realize their mistake and drop the matter.

Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the former Governor of Delta State, has reconciled with Prof. Patrick Utomi after months of verbal attacks over the state's financial state. The reconciliation was brokered by Bishop Matthew Kukah, who accused Utomi of excessive borrowing and alleged diversion of funds. Uduaghan urged Utomi to contest the post of a councillor in his ward instead of aiming to be the next governor. The former governor's spokesman, Mr. Areh Sunday, announced their reconciliation on Facebook.

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has approved the promotion of 24,202 senior officers across four paramilitary agencies, as announced by Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in Abuja. This promotion, which is the second batch in 2025, affects the Nigerian Correctional Service (11,426 officers), Nigeria Immigration Service (4,336), Federal Fire Service (2,581), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (5,859). The Minister stated that promotions were based on factors like national spread, performance, and availability of vacancies, aimed at boosting personnel morale and enhancing service delivery. This follows a similar promotion of 20,867 senior officers in 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to address delays in career progression and improve staff welfare, especially after a period of stagnation in promotions.

Emeka Okochie, a bookseller and publisher, is struggling to make sales due to the emergence of electronic books and the current state of the economy. Donatus Nwaogu, the manager of Donatus Books, said devaluation of the naira and the increase in the price of commodities had affected the purchasing power of paper book lovers. Isaiah Adeogun, a teacher and purchasing manager at Bible Wonderland, said the invention of e-books had not affected the production and sale of paper books, but that Nigerians had a slow adoption of technological advancements. Ben Chucks lamented that the pandemic had drastically affected sales, except for those who must buy books for their children.

The Governor of Ekiti, Ayodele Fayose, has stated that President Muhammadu Buhari has become a part-time and ceremonial President, only seen during the Friday Jumat service at the Presidential Villa. Fayose believes that Nigerians should be properly informed about the well-being of their President and that the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, should constitutionally act as the President. He accused close allies of deliberately shielding Buhari and preventing him from attending to his health to continue running the government on the basis of "Mr President has directed" even when the President did not direct anything. Fayose insisted that Nigerians must hear the voice of their President and see him physically, not through surrogates or the cabal operating behind the scenes. He said that it is only when the President is seen and heard physically that Nigerians will believe that they are not being ruled by a part-time and ceremonial President, whose powers are being exercised on his behalf by some cabal.

Following a Tuesday night incident at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport where a Boeing 737 aircraft suffered a tyre burst upon landing, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority announced a three-month suspension of Max Air's domestic flight operations starting at midnight on January 31, 2025. Although all fifty-three passengers disembarked unhurt and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has launched an official probe into the cause of the event, this marks the third incident involving the airline in three months. During the ninety-day ground period, the civil aviation authority will conduct a comprehensive safety and economic audit to re-inspect the company's personnel, procedures, aircraft, and financial health to ensure it can sustain safe flight operations before resuming services. The management of Max Air acknowledged the temporary closure, stating that the voluntary pause will allow for an internal operational evaluation to restore public confidence, while promising full refunds or rebooking options with partner airlines for all affected passengers.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed March 25 to rule on an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission seeking the final forfeiture of $13m linked to Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd, a company associated with businesswoman Aisha Achimugu. The EFCC alleges that the funds are proceeds of unlawful activity and were used in the acquisition of oil blocks during the 2024 licensing round. According to the commission, the money was allegedly moved through unlicensed Bureau de Change operators and intermediaries to meet signature bonus obligations to the Federal Government. An interim forfeiture order was earlier granted, with the EFCC directed to publish the order for interested parties to show cause. Oceangate has opposed the application, insisting the funds were lawfully sourced and denying any conspiracy. The case underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen anti-corruption enforcement and financial transparency in the oil and gas sector.

A violent attack by a suspected terrorist group struck a facility belonging to the Nigerian Immigration Service located at the Kangiwa border in Kebbi State during the evening hours of Friday, January 10, 2025. The tragic incident resulted in the loss of four lives, specifically claiming the lives of a local watchman and three contractors who were working on the premises at the time, while also causing severe destruction to the local security infrastructure. Fortunately, official reports confirmed that no immigration officers suffered any harm during the assault. In the wake of this tragedy, the spokesperson for the immigration service expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families of the victims. Authorities have emphasized that they are actively collaborating with other security organizations to track down, identify, and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice, while firmly maintaining their dedication to national border security.

Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Director of Missions, Pastor Caxton Fasuyi, has emphasized the importance of empowering youths with entrepreneurial skills to reduce poverty and hunger in Nigeria. He announced the admission of 100 youths to the Joseph Ayo Babalola University's entrepreneurial skills acquisition programme, sponsored by the CAC. The program is part of a partnership between the church and the Bank of Industry, sponsoring youths from six geo-political zones. The church will provide start-up packages worth millions of naira to those who excel. The program is expected to continue after the first batch, aiming to eradicate poverty in the church.

The Federal Government in Nigeria has announced a mandatory registration of Point-of-Sales operators to reduce kidnapping and assist security agencies in arresting ransom payments. The registration process aligns with legal requirements and Central Bank of Nigeria directives, aiming to safeguard businesses and strengthen the economy. The deadline for registration is 60 days and ends on July 7th. The benefits of registration include access to loans, legality, and compliance with regulatory requirements. However, PoS agents have criticized the move, arguing it would place more burden on operators, especially in rural areas.

The west African Examination council has said the use of information and communication Technology has reduced the period for the processing of result of the west African senior school certificate Examination for candidates from 84 days to 45 days.

The Federal Government of Nigeria spent only twenty percent of its total budget on capital projects in 2024, leaving critical infrastructure largely underfunded while recurrent costs consumed sixty-five percent of the finances. Research from Agusto and Company indicates that the nation faces a massive infrastructure deficit expected to hit 878 billion dollars by 2040. Although revenue increased, a widening 15.47 trillion naira shortfall forced the country to borrow heavily to fund operational costs, debt servicing, and growing public personnel salaries. Professor Adeola Adenikinju, President of the Nigerian Economic Society, warned that spending on debt servicing does not improve infrastructure or expand the economy, calling it a harsh consequence of past mismanagement. While President Bola Tinubu requested additional funds for infrastructure projects, parliamentary leaders like Senator Solomon Adeola and Representative Abubakar Bichi sharply criticized the slow release of capital project funding. Through communications shared by media adviser Kayode Odunaro, lawmakers urged the government to balance its spending ratio so citizens could actually benefit. To give ministries more time, the National Assembly extended the implementation of the 2024 capital budget, drawing criticism from financial experts who say managing two budgets simultaneously weakens fiscal accountability. In response to these financial constraints, Jobson Ewalefoh, the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, invited local and international private investors to explore public-private partnerships to help bridge the country's multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure gap.

Ministers overseeing critical infrastructure agencies in Nigeria face severe funding challenges, with capital releases for projects in the first seven months of 2025 totaling just N834.80 billion, significantly below the expected N10.81 trillion. The Budget Office of the Federation has been criticized for delays in providing budget performance data and low transparency. Despite an appropriated capital expenditure of N18.53 trillion, actual spending demonstrated a mere 7.72% performance rate. Overall capital expenditure for 2025 was N3.60 trillion, indicating a 73.7% shortfall. Ministerial frustrations have arisen from insufficient funds, with notable examples including the Ministry of Health receiving only N36 million of its N218 billion allocation and the Ministry of Transportation getting merely about 1% of its N256.73 billion budget. Funding issues stem from a bottom-up cash planning system, systemic bottlenecks, and reliance on external loans, highlighting significant challenges in executing government projects effectively.

Nigerians continued to lean heavily on cash withdrawals despite higher automated teller machine charges introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria, as the value of ATM transactions jumped to N36.34tn in the first half of 2025, reinforcing the resilience of cash usage in the economy.Data from the CBN quarterly statistical bulletin show that ATM withdrawals between January and June 2025 amounted to N36.34tn, nearly tripling the N12.21tn recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.According to the data on the transaction volumes, Nigerians carried out 858.80 million ATM withdrawals in the first six months of 2025, compared with 496.47 million transactions in the same period of 2024. The increase of 362.34 million transactions represents a growth rate of 72.98 per cent, indicating that higher charges did little to dampen demand for cash.It also complicates inflation targeting, as large cash holdings outside the banking system blunt the effectiveness of policy. The sharp rise in currency outside banks comes at a time when the CBN is focused on tightening liquidity to curb inflation.

The World Bank has criticized the Federal Government’s conditional cash transfer program, revealing it has only reached thirty-seven percent of its fifteen million targeted households two years after its launching. Published in the Nigeria Development Update report released in Abuja, the bank noted that surging inflation and weak economic growth have pushed an additional forty million citizens into poverty since 2019. The eight hundred million dollar loan-backed program was originally launched by President Bola Tinubu in twenty twenty-three to cushion fuel subsidy removal but suffered major delays following a corruption scandal involving former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Betta Edu. To resolve ongoing administrative and biometric verification bottlenecks, Vice President Kashim Shettima recently set up an inter-agency task force. The World Bank warns that the government must urgently fix its social protection frameworks and update registries to prevent millions from being left behind.

Despite facing allegations of a N1.2 trillion digital trading fraud that impacted over 600,000 Nigerians, the Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX) has resumed operations, introducing new withdrawal options to rebuild investor trust. Sources indicated that new registrations and trading activities have restarted, even as investigations by regulatory agencies continue. An external audit is in progress to determine the losses incurred when the platform collapsed in April. Existing investors will reportedly regain access to their funds starting June 25, 2025, contingent on the completion of the audit by a UK-based insurance firm. Following the SEC's declaration of CBEX as an illegal operation and ongoing inquiries by the EFCC, the platform's activities have been condemned. At least eight individuals linked to CBEX have been declared wanted for promoting the scheme. Despite regulatory warnings, new users are still being attracted to the platform by promises of quick profits, with reports indicating that withdrawal options have been reactivated. However, funds from previous accounts remain inaccessible, as alleged losses from a failed trade on April 14 led to significant financial damages. For restoration of accounts, CBEX requires users to reinvest a portion of their initial capital, suggesting a plan to recover losses and continue operations. While the platform aims to dispel fraud allegations, user skepticism and regulatory scrutiny continue to loom over its legitimacy.

In order to encourage colleges to advance digitalization over the next two years, the Central Bank of Nigeria has publicly announced that it is prepared to establish a N100 million award programme. This was stated by Mr. Adebisi Shonubi, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, at the opening summit of the CIO Club Africa, with the topic "The Role of Digitalization in Transforming the Economy."

In order to encourage colleges to advance digitalization over the next two years, the Central Bank of Nigeria has publicly announced that it is prepared to establish a N100 million award programme. This was stated by Mr. Adebisi Shonubi, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, at the opening summit of the CIO Club Africa, with the topic "The Role of Digitalization in Transforming the Economy."

According to the June 2025 Purchasing Managers’ Index report from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the country’s economy is showing steady growth but faces a serious risk of rising inflation. For the sixth month in a row, business activities expanded across the country, with the agriculture sector leading the growth, followed by industry and services. Out of 36 economic subsectors, 25 reported increased production and business activity. However, the report highlights a worrying trend: the cost of producing goods and running services (input costs) is rising much faster than the prices companies are charging their customers (output prices). Up until now, businesses have been absorbing these extra costs to keep prices stable, which is hurting their profit margins. This problem is most severe in the agriculture sector and lowest in the services sector. The central bank warns that businesses cannot continue to absorb these financial pressures forever. Eventually, companies will be forced to pass these higher costs onto the public, which will likely trigger a new wave of consumer price inflation.

The National Economic Council has confirmed that a $3bn emergency loan-for-crude oil secured in August will be used to stabilize the naira, which has been fluctuating in the Investors & Exporters' window and worsened in the parallel market. The loan will enable the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to settle taxes and royalties in advance and provide the Federal Government with dollar liquidity.

The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) is set to launch a new digital Asset and Liability Declaration System to replace Nigeria’s outdated paper-based process and strengthen anti-corruption efforts. CCB Chairman Abdullahi Bello announced the initiative during a validation workshop in Abuja, emphasizing that the old manual system was inefficient, poorly analyzed, and failed to serve as an effective accountability tool. The digital platform will enable real-time verification of public officials’ assets by integrating national databases such as the Corporate Affairs Commission, land registries, and financial institutions. It will automatically detect undeclared properties, companies, and income streams, enhancing transparency. To ensure sustainability, a graded service fee will apply to political office holders and senior public servants, while junior staff and those unable to pay will be exempt. Senator Neda Imasuen praised the reform and its funding model. The system is expected to become fully operational after stakeholder validation.

Atiku Abubakar's legal team plans to challenge President Bola Tinubu's plea for Chicago State University not to release privileged documents from his academic records. The legal team had 48 hours to respond in the US court. Tinubu's lawyers argue that his academic records are not useful in Nigerian courts and that Atiku's request is intrusive, allowing him to conduct a fishing expedition into his private, confidential, and protected educational records.

Child health experts strongly advise parents to educate their children about their blood groups and genotypes starting as early as four to seven years old, noting that this knowledge can ultimately save a child's life during medical emergencies. Because children possess a much smaller total blood volume than adults, any unexpected blood loss requires rapid intervention, and knowing the child's specific blood type allows physicians to bypass lengthy cross-matching procedures and perform safe, volume-for-volume blood transfusions immediately. Additionally, having this information readily available helps prevent severe, fatal complications from blood mismatches and assists medical personnel in delivering effective care when parents or guardians are not present at the scene. Specialists suggest that beyond direct emergency communication, parents can also provide young children with personal identification cards containing their medical details, ensuring timely healthcare delivery and reducing long-term health risks.

During the National Children’s Day celebrations, President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, joined state governors and prominent leaders to advocate for the safety and protection of Nigerian children, focusing on the theme of building a bullying-free generation. President Bola Tinubu expressed deep concern over high rates of physical and psychological aggression among school-age children, asserting that violence and neglect have no place in the nation. He emphasized the government's commitment to child protection through the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children and noted that all thirty-six states have domesticated the Child Rights Act. Supporting this vision, Oluremi Tinubu called on stakeholders to actively protect children from the lasting emotional and academic wounds caused by bullying.Across various states, leadership echoed these sentiments while outlining localized development agendas. Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa both urged parents and teachers to decisively combat child abuse, exploitation, and intimidation. In Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo warned families against the dangers of cultism, while Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq highlighted his administration’s legislative actions against violence alongside advancements in basic healthcare and education. Additionally, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara validated the dreams of the state's youth, Senator Sharafadeen Alli advocated for stronger educational rights, and Nasarawa State Speaker Danladi Jatau called for an end to child labor and street begging. Political chieftain Segun Showunmi, alongside religious and foundational leaders Akinpelumi Ojo and Esther Balogun, further inspired the children to remain focused, reject despair, and stay vigilant against abuse.

Apostle Unyime Nkanta, General Overseer of the Frontline Missionary Church in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has praised Hon Unyime Idem, a member of the House of Representatives representing Oruk Anam/Ukanafun federal constituency, for his positive impact on his constituents. Nkanta praised Idem's development projects and the positive impact he has had on the lives of his constituents, including economic empowerment and employment generation. He urged other politicians to emulate Idem's leadership for the betterment of society and emphasized that Nigeria would benefit from similar leadership. Nkanta described Idem as a man of vision, focused, and committed to his goals. He praised Idem's ability to understand and work towards his goals, highlighting his close relationship with his people.

Rotary Club of Ogudu GRA has distributed baby cots with net covers, clothes, and baby scales to some pregnant women and the Ogudu Primary Health Centre, Lagos State.

President of the club, Mr Akeem Shonde, said the club distributed the maternal and child kits to pregnant women and the hospital to commemorate the Rotary Month of maternal and child health.

 Shonde also said the club gave out the items to help reduce the burden of malaria among babies as well as cushion the harsh economic effects of getting those items on the mothers.

“The nets will prevent the babies from having malaria. Looking at the economic situation in the country, we decided to help the pregnant women remove that burden of getting those items because it is very important for them to prevent their babies from having malaria,” he said. 

Representative of the health centre, Dr Kehinde Oguntoyinbo, commended the Rotary club for their continuous support for the hospital, saying most of the pregnant women were not financially buoyant to get the mother and baby care items.

She said “The club has helped the women to remove the burden of buying baby beds, nets and clothes from them.

One of the pregnant women, Victoria Inyang, thanked the club for the mother and baby care packs.

The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the ongoing N15tn Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which has attracted both praise and condemnation since its approval in February. The 10-lane coastal road was designed to connect Lagos to Cross River, passing through various states before culminating in Calabar. The project gained traction under the administrations of Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari but could not commence. The Ministry of Works defended the project, stating it followed due process and that House of Representatives members had pledged support for the project. The Federal Executive Council has approved and released N1.06tn for the contractor for the pilot phase of the construction. The highway was conceived as an Engineering, Procurement and Construction plus Financing project, with part-funding by the Federal Government between 15 to 30%. The approval process went through the Bureau of Public Procurement after consideration by the Federal Executive Council.

Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani emphasized the importance of unity among Northern elites to address the region's development challenges during a visit from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) leadership. He stated that the North has significant human capital that can drive growth if effectively harnessed. Sani highlighted the need for skills acquisition and financial inclusion, noting many northerners lack access to banking services, which hampers their ability to participate in government programs. The ACF's upcoming 25th anniversary, aimed at promoting dialogue and collaboration, was discussed, with plans for an endowment fund to support community projects. The ACF seeks to build bridges with other regional groups and engage influential personalities to foster national cohesion.

Nigerian Director of Publicity, Femi Fani-Kayode, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to condemn the killings of Fulani herdsmen. Fani-Kayode expressed dissatisfaction with the Buhari administration and urged him to condemn the heinous activities of his kinsmen. He warned that if the government continued to persecute its perceived enemies, a national rebellion was inevitable. Fani-Kayode urged the President to stop making sensational allegations and lies to silence the opposition. He also criticized a comment by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who suggested holding vandals responsible for the country's lack of electricity. Fani-Kayode believes in the force of logic and believes that when a people are pushed against a wall, things can change quickly.

Electricity consumers in Nigeria have been protesting against the hike in prepaid meters prices announced by power distribution companies. The Electricity Consumers Protection and Advocacy Centre has accused the electricity sector of being structured to inflict hardships on the masses. After months of shutting down their meter application portals, some Discos have released revised prices of the product. The hiked prices follow the deregulation of meter sales by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, giving room for vendors and buyers to sell meters at prices convenient to both sides. A single-phase meter rose from N88,000 to an average of N147,000, depending on the vendor. The new meter prices took effect from May 23, and customers would have their meter installed within 10 working days after payment had been made. The prices were as supplied by IBEDC meter vendor, Mojec Asset Management Company Limited. The Chief Executive Officer of Femadec Group, Fola Akinola, recently said that power distribution companies shut down their meter application portals because manufacturers and DisCos were regularising the prices of meters to reflect current economic realities. The NERC had released an order on the deregulation of meter prices under the MAP scheme, which stipulated that consumers should get energy credit as a refund for meters paid for. The Executive Director of the Electricity Consumers Protection and Advocacy Centre, Princewill Okorie, wondered why the Discos would be allowed to hike meter prices at a time when consumers are yet to come to terms with the Band A tariff hike. He claimed that the Discos, aided by NERC, have been extorting Nigerians by failing to abide by the MAP policy, which stipulates that consumers should get energy credit as a refund for meters paid for.

Odio Investment Cooperative and Credit Society Limited has revealed plans to begin training for farmers and small-scale business owners on how to export their produce, adding that the farmers would be exposed to how to access credit facilities to boost their businesses. The company said that the training will be taking place in all the 774 local government areas of the country under the "Light Up Nigeria Project". The Chairman of Odio Investment Cooperative and Credit Society Limited, Prince Amezhinm Atuma, stated this at the official launching of the project in Degema, headquarters of Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. Atuma, who is also the Coordinator of "Light Up Nigeria Project 2023", also said that aside from the training, cottage industries will be set up and microloans will be made available to traders as well as small and medium-scale businesses. He emphasized that the project is a public-private partnership, PPP, initiative, with several government agencies such as SMEDAN, NEPC, NIPOST, as well as a partnership with some international organizations, adding that plans were on for collaboration with Rural Electrification Agency, REA, for power supply in rural communities through solar.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is awaiting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's report on officers accused of corruption before making a decision. The commission is currently investigating over 100 officers for alleged bribery during the last general election. Some resident Electoral Commissioners of INEC were alleged to have been bribed by People's Democratic Party officials. The EFCC has arrested Oluchi Brown, an administrative secretary in Delta State, and Edem Effanga, a retired INEC official. The commission is not going to cover up any of its workers, and suspects will not be disciplined until the EFCC submits its reports. The law will be used to handle the EFCC's report when it is out.

The police authorities have said they would not condone any form of violence during the planned two-day demonstration declared by organised Labour in protest against the hardships and high cost of living in the country.The police handed down the Riot Act on Sunday as the Nigeria Labour Congress gave fresh conditions ahead of the minimum wage negotiation commencing on Monday (today.)The police warning is coming against the backdrop of the alarm by the African Development Bank that rising prices of fuel and other commodities could lead to social unrest in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Angola, and Kenya.The AfDB sounded the warning in its macroeconomic performance and outlook for 2024 in which it projected Africa’s economy to grow higher than the 3.2 percent recorded in 2023. “I am a teacher in one of the private schools; I have gotten nothing in the form of palliative from the government. We have been trusting in the Lord and we thank God for his grace has been sufficient for us,” she said. Mr Samuel Tijani, a resident of Ilisan Remo, did not benefit from the palliatives just as he appealed to the government to lessen the pains of the fuel subsidy removal. Tijani said, “I have received nothing in the name of palliatives from anyone since the crisis of this fuel subsidy removal began. I heard that the state government is planning to distribute another set of food palliatives soon. I sincerely hope that the government will ensure that it goes around this time.”

The Chairman of the Ojodu Local Council Development Area in Lagos State, Mr. Segun Odunmbaku, has reiterated his commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery by collaborating with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board. This pledge was made during a Primary Health Care Policy Dialogue at Sheraton Hotels, Lagos, themed “Strengthening Primary Health Care System: A Joint Leadership Dialogue.” Odunmbaku highlighted significant investments in rehabilitating primary healthcare centers, which included over 600 surgeries, digitalization of medical records, and the provision of modern medical equipment. He affirmed his administration's dedication to maintaining collaboration with the state government and other partners for accessible and quality healthcare. Additionally, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, noted the government’s comprehensive strategy to tackle issues in primary healthcare operations, financing, technology, data systems, and workforce development. The event was attended by other notable figures, including Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, and Dr. Veronica Iwayemi, the Director of Medical Services and Disease Control at the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.

Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja has mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the National Democratic Party (NDP), following a ruling in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2796/2025. The court found that the plaintiffs, led by NDP's National Chairman Ada Frederick Okwori, had met all necessary constitutional and statutory qualifications outlined in Sections 222–224 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Sections 75 and 79 of the Electoral Act 2022, and related INEC regulations. In a judgment delivered on February 16, 2026, Justice Umar declared the previous denial of registration by INEC ineffective and instructed the body to proceed with the registration of the NDP without delay, conferring all associated political rights and privileges. The court also specified that if INEC failed to act, the NDP would be considered registered by default under Section 75(4) of the Electoral Act 2022. This ruling increases the number of registered political parties in Nigeria to 22, amidst preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Meedical doctors in cross river, on sunday began an indfinite strike in solidarity with one of their colleagues  abducted on Thursday from her residence in calabar. The doctors announcedv the strike in a communique issued after their emergency general meeting on sunday in calabar .The communique issued signed by the chairman  of the Nigerian medical Association, crossRiver branch ,Dr

During a half-year press briefing, Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Area Command, announced major enforcement successes between January and June 2025. The command seized 27 containers of prohibited and illegally imported goods with a total duty paid value of 9.2 billion Naira. These confiscated items included unregistered pharmaceuticals, codeine syrup, expired margarine, second-hand clothing, stolen vehicles, matches without an End User Certificate, and wild animal skins. Babatunde Olomu strongly condemned the smuggling of wild animal parts, noting that it violates the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Additionally, the command sealed three bonded terminals due to various infractions, leading to one active court prosecution and two ongoing investigations. Beyond anti-smuggling operations aimed at protecting local industries and public health through strict scanning and physical examinations, the command generated 1.37 trillion Naira in revenue, marking a 35 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. To further improve trade efficiency, the command has also initiated discussions with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other stakeholder associations to establish a standard operating procedure for transporting goods by rail from the Apapa Port to other states across Nigeria.

Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.

Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.

Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accused Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State of double registration in the ongoing voter registration process. Bello registered twice and in an undesignated area, violating the law. The commission has commenced disciplinary action against INEC staff involved in the illegal registration. The commission cannot commence legal action against Bello due to the immunity clause for governors in the constitution. Bello's Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on New Media, Gbenga Olorunponmi, have not responded to attempts to speak with him. The commission has designated a center for voter registration in all 774 local government areas.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reduced its wholesale price for petrol to N820 per litre, marking a N20 drop from its previous price of N840. This is the second reduction in a single week, bringing the total price cut to N60; 6.82 percent from its earlier high of N880. According to Dangote Group spokesperson Anthony Chiejina, the company lowered the price to make fuel more affordable for Nigerians. This price drop comes shortly after a brief period where Dangote, the NNPC, and other distributors had hiked fuel prices due to rising global crude oil costs triggered by conflicts between Israel and Iran. Now that those geopolitical tensions have eased and crude oil prices have fallen below $70 a barrel, fuel prices are starting to drop. Consequently, filling stations in places like Lagos and Ogun States have already begun selling petrol for less than N900 per litre, with prices ranging between N875 and N890, and a small drop in pump prices is expected across the country.

Dangote Sugar Refinery reported a loss after tax of one hundred ninety-two point six billion naira for the financial year ending December 2024, marking a significant increase from the previous year's loss. Although the company achieved a fifty-one percent increase in revenue to six hundred sixty-five point six billion naira, soaring production costs and a dramatic surge in finance expenses severely eroded its profitability, widening its pre-tax loss. Despite these heavy financial losses, a substantial revaluation surplus boosted the firm's total comprehensive income, while its total assets grew significantly to over one trillion naira, driven by increases in property, plant, and equipment. In response to these financial pressures, the company launched an offering to raise fifty billion naira from debt capital market investors through commercial papers.

Former Ogun State governor and senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has said Nigeria’s economy is steadily recovering under President Bola Tinubu, assuring that the worst period of hardship is over and that 2026 will bring improved fortunes for the country.Daniel said President Tinubu’s bold economic reforms—including the removal of fuel subsidy, floating of the naira, and renewed efforts to tackle insecurity—are already yielding positive results and placing the nation on a stronger economic footing.Speaking on Sunday at his annual family thanksgiving service held at Abraham Tabernacle, Sagamu, Ogun State, Daniel said there was no need to “beat about the bush” regarding the impact of the reforms.“There is no beating about the bush. President Tinubu’s courageous economic reforms are already putting Nigeria on a strong footing. The worst is over, and I believe that gradually and steadily, things will continue to improve,” he said.Speaking with journalists at the event, the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in the state, Oladipupo Adebutu, acknowledged the current economic hardship but urged Nigerians not to lose hope.“Things are undoubtedly difficult for Nigerians, especially as we approach another political season. But God is a God of grace and mercy. Better days are ahead, and Nigerians should not lose hope because 2026 will be better,” Adebutu said.

Champions D’Tigress outclassed hosts Rwanda 79-48 in the semi-finals of the ongoing 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Kigali, Rwanda to book a place in the final, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The win on Thursday means D’Tigress have now extended their unbeaten run to 23 games and are on the verge of winning a fourth consecutive AfroBasket title.

The last time Nigeria lost a game in the Women’s Afrobasket was in 2015 against Cameroon in the semi-finals.

New head coach, Rena Wakama, maintained the starting five that managed to beat Mozambique 59-52 in the quarter-finals to set up a last-four showdown with the hosts — whom they had defeated in their previous two meetings 2009 and 2011 — on Thursday. 

Amy Okonkwo, Palla Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Elizabeth Balogun, Sarah Ogoke and Blessing Ejiofor were ruthless from the tip-off, but the hosts scored the first points, before Okonkwo put Nigeria in front.

D’Tigress blew through the Rwandans and established a 22-6 lead in the first quarter. 

It was a bright start for the Rwandans in the third quarter, as they outscored D’Tigress to get themselves back into the game, as the quarter ended 58-35.

In the final quarter, Nigeria restored control and secured an outstanding 31-point victory to progress to the competition’s final.

Okonkwo led the Nigerians with 23 points, followed by Oluwayemisi Taiwo, who netted 12 points.

Nigeria now await the winners of the other semi-final game between Mali and Senegal on Friday (today) as they hope to win the championship for the fourth time in a row on Saturday, a feat that only the Senegalese boast of in African basketball.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Sub-Saharan African countries to eliminate tax exemptions and increase domestic revenue to reduce fiscal deficits, rather than reducing fiscal expenditure. The IMF also suggested that increasing women's participation in the labor force could boost GDP by about 8% in the coming years, despite the weakest medium-term growth outlook in over 30 years.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed concerns regarding Abba Atiku's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party, commending his father, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, for his mature, non-influential response. APC Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, emphasized the party's strong internal discipline and structure, stating that one individual's influence could not destabilize the organization. Duru also expressed respect for Atiku Abubakar’s stance on his son's decision. Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar clarified that the defection was a personal choice and reiterated his criticisms of the APC-led government while advocating for improved governance.

Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has accused Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf of coercing state officials and local government chairmen into defecting from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Kano State Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, denied these allegations, claiming that participation in the defection is voluntary. Kwankwaso expressed concern over the situation, urging those affected to comply with demands to avoid victimization. Amidst speculation about Governor Yusuf's potential defection from the NNPP to the APC, relationships appear strained between him and Kwankwaso. The Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, reaffirmed his loyalty to Kwankwaso, alongside other senior officials, signaling internal support within the NNPP despite the ongoing rumors of defection. The political landscape in Kano remains tense as factions prepare for possible realignments leading up to the next elections.

Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary Olise Ifeajirika, has strongly denied rumors that he secretly refunded over five hundred billion naira to the state government or the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to avoid prosecution. Rumors of the massive refund spread after Okowa and his political mentee, current Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwor, alongside other top state officials, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress. While Ifeajirika clarified that Okowa honored an invitation from the anti-graft agency to review documents and respond appropriately, he maintained that the investigation is still ongoing and no such money has been returned. Meanwhile, Governor Oborevwori recently held a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja following the historic political realignment in the state.

The ruling All Progressives Congress officially welcomed former House of Representatives member Nicholas Ossai following his defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, with the seasoned lawmaker stating that his decision aims to bring meaningful development to his constituents while praising President Bola Tinubu as his role model. During his formal declaration in Abuja, Ossai explained that he chose to switch allegiance because his former party had become dysfunctional and broken beyond repair, noting that the ruling party provides the ideal platform to support the government's current national trajectory. Having previously represented his constituency across multiple legislative terms, he expressed strong confidence that his defection alongside his numerous supporters would effectively dismantle opposition dominance and help champion the progressive agenda in Delta State. Welcoming him into the fold, party leaders lauded the move as clear evidence of growing confidence in the administration's reforms while heavily criticizing the internal crises plaguing the opposition.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has charged the Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management, Ogun State, to develop a relevant academic curriculum to enable graduands to be contributors to national development in the areas of entrepreneurship and scientific inventions. The Chairman, Governing Council, RECTEM, Dr Johnson Odesola, said the convocation provided ample opportunity for assessment of the performance of an institution and to raise the bar for higher academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. The Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education, Kaduna, Prof. Idris Bugaji noted that Technical and Vocational Education and Training remained the driving force for sustainable development. Mama Dada, a middle-aged woman, set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan from a microfinance bank.

Aguele stated that "Open Finance, backed by a strong digital identity infrastructure, was key to bridging the gap between identification and financial inclusion to achieve result at scale for the over 500 million people living in Africa without a recognised form of ID" during the Decentralised Finance (DeFi) session of the 5th edition of the Africa Tech summit held in Nairobi, Kenya.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, describing the Peoples Democratic Party as a “sinking ship.” The defection ceremony, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, was attended by prominent political figures and state governors. Governor Diri’s move, coming ahead of the 2027 general elections, makes him the fourth governor from the Peoples Democratic Party to join the All Progressives Congress this year. Explaining his decision, Diri expressed concern about Bayelsa’s political future under what he described as a declining party, emphasizing that his action represents an “Ijaw realignment” rather than a mere change of political affiliation. He also noted that the current administration is addressing several long-standing infrastructural demands of the Ijaw people. Diri’s defection has received support from fellow South-South governors who called for greater unity in regional governance. Vice President Shettima commended Diri’s decision as a commitment to development over partisanship, saying it aligns Bayelsa State with a forward-looking vision for progress. Governor Diri concluded by reaffirming that his decision is guided by a belief in inclusive politics that advances the well-being of his people.

A man identified as Mohammed Faworaja has met his untimely death in Ilorin, Kwara State capital while running away from a dog.

PUNCH Metro gathered on Thursday that the incident occurred around Asa Dam, the Warah-Osin area in the Ilorin West Local Government Area of the state. 

A source who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “The dog, a German shepherd, got loose and chased the deceased who hit his chest on an electric pole. He died of internal bleeding and the canned fish (Sardine) which he went to buy dropped and was seen beside the pole at the scene of the incident.

“He was a very friendly man and cannot be more than 33 years of age. He was the breadwinner of the family. The police are involved in the matter.

Domestic refineries in Nigeria have declared their ability to supply more petrol to the local market in 2026 than importers did in 2025, signalling a potential shift away from fuel import dependence. The Crude Oil Refiners Association of Nigeria stated that local facilities, led by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, have sufficient installed capacity to meet national fuel demand if crude oil feedstock is made available. Official data show that imports accounted for about 62 per cent of petrol consumption in 2025, despite increased output from domestic refineries. Refiners argue that inadequate crude supply, rather than limited capacity, has constrained production across both large and modular plants. Industry leaders project that with improved feedstock access, domestic supply could surpass imports, reduce foreign exchange pressure, and enhance energy security. The development highlights ongoing tensions between refiners and regulators, as well as broader policy debates on refining support, pricing, and Nigeria’s long-term strategy for petroleum self-sufficiency.

The board of the Lagos State Football Association on Tuesday suspended its chairman,  , for gross misconduct by a simple majority of five to four.

At the meeting held at the LSFA office on Ogunlana Drive, Surulere, Lagos, Oki was alleged to have “committed, among other things, offences which violates against the rules and regulations of the Nigeria Football Federation.”

The embattled FA boss was accused of “not attending the NFF Congress with no excuse and without the knowledge of the LSFA Board, changing of the association logo without approval of the board and the congress, denying the Nigerian Professional League A1 Camera delegates access to test-run the A1 camera prior to the commencement of the league, and total disregard to NFF instructions on NPFL rules and regulations regarding branding and streaming of matches by our affiliate (Sporting Lagos FC).”

Oki was also alleged to have “released the 2023/24 NNL SEASON – MATCH DAY LOGISTiCS to NNL clubs without the knowledge of the board, delayed and stopped several youth tournaments and recreational football, threatening teams to move out of Lagos and initiating independence of LSFA outside of the authority of the NFF.” 

The board also said he was at loggerheads with the Lagos State Sports Commission on the use of facilities and accused him of “spoiling a hitherto amiable relationship.”

After his suspension, Oki was also alleged to have slapped his vice chairman Olawale Gafar. A video, which went viral online on Tuesday, showed Gafaar lamenting, with Oki seated close to him

Senegal clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations title by defeating Morocco 1–0 in a highly contentious final held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The match was marked by significant refereeing controversies, including a disallowed goal for Senegal in stoppage time. Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the first half of extra time. Despite Morocco's strong home support, they were unable to equalize, with Senegal's defense and goalkeeper Édouard Mendy standing firm. This victory marks Senegal's sixth win in this tournament, adding to their 2021 title.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami (SAN) and his son, Abdulaziz, before a Federal High Court in Abuja. The five-count charge includes unlawful possession of firearms and terrorism financing. Specifically, the prosecution alleges that in November 2022, Malami utilized his position as AGF to shield individuals flagged for terrorism financing from prosecution. While both defendants pleaded not guilty, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik denied an oral bail application, requesting a formal written submission instead. The matter has been adjourned to February 20, 2026. This legal action follows a separate EFCC investigation into Malami regarding the alleged concealment of N8.7 billion in illicit proceeds.

Former Attorney General Abubakar Malami was taken into custody by the Department of State Services immediately after his release from Kuje Correctional Centre, following the fulfillment of his bail conditions set by the Federal High Court. He was released on bail on January 7, alongside his wife and son, each required to secure N500 million bail with strict conditions. Malami had been detained for money laundering involving N8.7 billion and had previously been in EFCC custody since December 8, 2025. Despite his release, the EFCC clarified that they did not re-arrest him. Court documents revealed allegations against Malami and his family involving the concealment of funds through multiple corporate entities and high-value transactions.

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) disrupted an alleged arms supply network linked to attacks in Plateau State and surrounding regions, arresting a suspected arms dealer, Musa Abubakar, on November 12, 2025. Intelligence led DSS operatives to Abubakar's workshop in the Mista Ali area of Bassa Local Government Area, where they reportedly seized components of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), chemicals, and equipment. Abubakar allegedly confessed to manufacturing and distributing high-caliber weapons and ammunition to armed groups engaged in violent activities in Plateau and other northern states. This operation coincided with the recapture of Abdulazeez Obadaki, known as Bomboy, a Kuje Prison escapee linked to previous attacks. Additionally, the DSS had earlier apprehended nine suspects, including Timna Manjol, aged 46. The statements affirm the DSS's commitment to combating arms trafficking and terrorism in the region.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has reopened investigations into the 2019 disappearance of Abubakar Idris, also known as Dadiyata, a lecturer who went missing after being abducted by gunmen in Kaduna. Nearly seven years later, his wife, Kadijah, expressed ongoing concern during a video interview with Reno Omokri, who pledged to support her and her children. Kadijah recounted witnessing her husband's abduction and appealed for information regarding his fate. Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai denied involvement in the case, asserting that Dadiyata was critical of the Kano government, not the Kaduna administration, while former Kano Governor Abdullahi Ganduje dismissed links to the disappearance. Reports indicate that El-Rufai's passport was seized by DSS amid their investigations, which include questioning his sons related to the case.

Operatives of the Department of State Service, Niger State Command, stormed a house in Kulobe community in the Gbeganu area of Minna, Niger State, following a tip-off from neighbours, and discovered a large cache of AK-47 rifles and thousands of ammunition. The suspected terrorist was said to have seen the operatives coming to his house through his Close Circuit Television camera and engaged them in a gun battle. The incident happened on Tuesday between 1am and 3am when the suspect was said to have used a rocket launcher to bring down part of the fence of his house through which he disappeared into thin air, leaving behind his wife and children who were taken into custody by the security operatives. According to a security source, who said he was in the house when the DSS was taking inventory of the weapons, over 150 AK-47 riffles, explosives, a rocket launcher, an anti-aircraft rifle, and ammunition, numbering over 3,000 were evacuated from the suspect's house and carted away to the office of the DSS. It was learnt that the suspected terrorist, whose name was not immediately known, is an indigene of the central part of Kogi State. It was further learnt that following the indiscriminate shooting by the suspect, a night watchman living next door, Mubarak Abubakar, was hit by a stray bullet and is currently receiving treatment at the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna.

Officers of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, on Thursday night, quelled a violent protest that erupted following the alleged killing of a fashion designer by an operative of the Department of State Services who shot intermittently and injured several people. One of our correspondents gathered that a customer brought the DSS official to the victim’s shop for allegedly failing to deliver some clothes on an agreed date. A trader in the market, who did not want her name in print for fear of being victimised, said some of the fashion designer’s colleagues, who learnt about the incident, intervened but their interference did not go down well with the DSS operative. She noted that the operative was arrested and detained by the police after he allegedly shot and killed the fashion designer. Responding to the development in a statement, the spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh said, In an incident at Garki International Market on September 7, 2023, an altercation arose between market occupants and certain individuals, including a DSS personnel and a tailor named Muhammad Habibu. The Garki Divisional Police station mobilised officers in response to a received distress call reporting the invasion of the market by these individuals, who fired shots at a tailor known as Mubarak Mubarak. However, in a statement, the spokesperson for the DSS, Peter Afunanya, said the secret police was investigating the matter.

The Economic Community of West African States Bank for Investment and Development has approved 100 million dollars in funding for a 47.7-kilometer stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. This funding, announced during the bank's ninety-second ordinary session alongside other major infrastructure investments across West Africa, will support the Nigerian federal government's goal to complete the entire 700-kilometer highway by 2028. Executed by Hitech Construction Company Limited since March 2024, this initial phase starts from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos. The highway project aims to link nine Nigerian states, improve access to seaports and remote agricultural zones, and create a regional value chain to uplift coastal communities. President Bola Tinubu previously commissioned the first completed section of the highway in May 2025. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, revealed that the government has procured contracts worth over 3 trillion Naira for multiple sections across Lagos, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states. Beyond Nigeria, the bank approved projects totaling millions of Euros and Dollars for technical schools in Togo, agricultural and hydroelectric facilities in Guinea, and cement production support in Côte d’Ivoire. These investments align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and push the bank's total regional commitments past 5 billion dollars. Attempts to get comments from the media aide to the Minister of Works, Orji Uchenna, were unsuccessful before publication.

Following escalating tensions, shooting incidents, and clashes between supporters of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party during the first week of the Edo State governorship election petition tribunal in Benin City, the Edo State Police Command has deployed additional officers to secure the High Court Complex venue. The tribunal was petitioned by the Peoples Democratic Party and six other parties to nullify the victory of All Progressives Congress candidate Monday Okpebholo from the September election, alleging fraud and irregularities, while the All Progressives Congress has defended the outcome and accused the opposition of instigating the recent security breaches. Both major political parties have traded blame over the unrest, with the Peoples Democratic Party citing safety concerns for bringing private security personnel and the ruling party criticizing the move as a breach of protocol. Meanwhile, the Labour Party has appealed for caution and warned that treating the legal proceedings like a war threatens the growth of democracy, prompting police authorities to vow strict investigation into the violence and enforce a rule-abiding environment for all parties involved.

Oak Business School (Monotechnic) owner Dr Lance Elakama has appealed to stakeholders in the education sector to train learners to become employers of labour and not job seekers. The school has secured accreditation in five courses, including Marketing, Accountancy, Business Administration, Banking and Finance as well as Computer Science. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratory, ICT, e-library, air-conditioned lecture rooms with highly qualified lecturers and hostel facilities. The school will commence academic activities on January 17 at its temporary campus in Ogba, Lagos. Mama Dada, a middle-aged woman, set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan of N70,000 she reportedly took from a microfinance bank, LAPOs.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested ex-socialite Fred Ajudua in Abuja following a Supreme Court order revoking his bail. Ajudua is facing trial for allegedly defrauding Palestinian businessman Zad Abu Zalaf of $1,043,000. The Supreme Court overturned the decision of the Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal that granted Ajudua bail in September 2018. The apex court ordered his remand in a correctional facility and directed the case to be returned to its original trial judge. The fraud case, which dates back to 2005, has faced prolonged delays due to multiple judicial reassignments.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Ola Olukoyede, on Tuesday, directed staff members of the commission to immediately declare their assets in line with civil service regulations and procedures. He gave the directive at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission in Abuja while addressing senior staff of the EFCC, stressing that fighting corruption required those at the vanguard to be above board. A statement by EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, quoted Olukoyede as assuring the commission's staff that adherence to the rule of law would be his defining principle of work. He said the EFCC needed to rid the nation of corruption in order to boost investors' confidence in Nigeria. He warned "those compromising their works and position to desist from such conduct, as dire consequences await every unsavoury tendency."

A former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja following allegations of money laundering, fund diversion, and theft involving seven hundred billion naira. The anti-graft agency initiated the investigation after receiving a petition from a civil society organization alleging that the former governor could not account for massive funds received from the federation account during his two terms in office between 2015 and 2023, while leaving behind substantial debts and uncompleted projects. According to sources within the agency, investigators uncovered suspicious cash withdrawals totaling thirty-one billion naira from a single account associated with the Office of the Governor between 2019 and 2023.

Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have disagreed over the existence and ownership of 48 houses allegedly traced to the ex-governor. Sylva claimed he owned only three houses in Abuja, while the EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, insisted that the ex-governor owned the 48 houses, allegedly returned to him by a court's order. The commission has begun fresh moves to challenge the return of the houses to Sylva before the Court of Appeal. The PUNCH reported that the EFCC had traced and sealed off 48 properties allegedly owned by Sylva. The PUNCH had arraigned the ex-governor for an alleged N19bn fraud and slammed 50 charges against him. Three Federal High Courts had struck out the case. Sylva denied ownership of the houses and threatened legal action against the anti-graft commission over the report.

Officials of the Benue State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, alongside private consultants, are being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an alleged N4.6bn fraud. The Commision is investigating claims that funds allocated to local government councils were diverted through consultancy fees purportedly paid for auditing local government staff, pensioners, and primary healthcare workers across the state’s 23 councils. Investigators have invited all local government chairmen to explain their roles, while key officials, including directors and treasurers, have already been questioned. State authorities have confirmed awareness of the probe and pledged full cooperation, emphasising a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. The Benue State Government maintains that the investigation will determine whether due process was followed in approving and disbursing the funds. The case underscores ongoing efforts by anti-graft agencies to strengthen accountability, transparency, and fiscal discipline in Nigeria’s local government administration.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recovered N802,420,000, which was unlawfully taken by Ojo Eghosa Kingsley, from an erroneous credit of over N1.3 billion to his account at First Bank Nigeria Plc. Investigations revealed that Kingsley transferred significant amounts to family members and used part for personal projects. The funds were returned to First Bank as part of the EFCC's commitment to addressing financial crimes. Kingsley and others involved have been charged in court, and First Bank praised the EFCC for their effective recovery efforts.