10 Things You Should Know This Monday Morning Nigerian News Recap (May 19, 2025)
Good morning, Nigeria! Here’s a quick, insightful roundup of key stories making headlines across the country today:
Tinubu Meets New Pope in Rome
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended the installation Mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome on Sunday. His media adviser, Bayo Onanuga, posted photos of Tinubu warmly shaking hands with the newly installed Pope. A diplomatic move or a quiet PR moment? You decide.
Another Building Collapse in Lagos
Tragedy struck again in Lagos as a two-storey building under construction crumbled on Ishaga Road in Mushin. One person lost their life, and three others were rescued with injuries. The recurring question remains: when will Nigeria get serious about building safety standards?
Deadly Road Crash in Niger State
Seven lives were lost and 16 others injured in a crash involving an articulated truck along Agaie-Badegi Road. Authorities blame bad road conditions, especially on the treacherous Lambata/Bida axis. How many more must die before real action is taken?
NDLEA Seizes ₦3.2 Billion Worth of Drugs
In a major anti-drug operation, NDLEA agents intercepted opioid shipments at the Apapa and Port Harcourt ports. Valued at over ₦3.2 billion, the bust was made during a joint inspection with Customs and other security outfits. One win for the good guys.
Edo Priest Nabbed Over Kidnapping
The deposed traditional priest of Okhuoromi, Ovbokhan Igbinvia, has been arrested with five others over suspected kidnapping activities. Shockingly, police recovered AK-47s, bullets, and even a human skull. Spiritual figure or criminal mastermind?
Missing Students Found Safe
A sigh of relief in Imo State: the 15 students who went missing while traveling from Onitsha to write UTME exams in Okigwe have been found and reunited with their families. It’s a happy ending, but serious questions remain about transport safety and exam logistics.
Power Sector on Life Support
The Senate Committee on Power has sounded the alarm over a deepening financial crisis in the energy sector. With tariff shortfalls and unpaid debts, the government reportedly owes ₦200 billion monthly to power generation companies. The lights are on but barely.
Pastor Arrested Over Mysterious Deaths
Enugu authorities have arrested a white garment church pastor after four siblings were found dead under mysterious circumstances in Igbo Eze South. While investigations are ongoing, the community is rattled. Faith or foul play?
Kwara Government Reacts to Boat Tragedy
Following the horrific boat accident that killed 37 traders on the Gbajibo River, Kwara officials are urging boat operators to follow safety rules. Meanwhile, they clarified the incident happened within Niger State. A tragedy with lingering jurisdictional finger-pointing.
Supreme Court Rules on Kogi Royal Tussle
In a long-running traditional leadership dispute, the Supreme Court has affirmed the Ilajo Royal Family’s right to contest the Obaro stool in Kabba, Kogi State. The family hailed the decision as a victory for justice and tradition.
From power sector woes and political theater in Rome to religious scandals and infrastructure failures—Nigeria continues to juggle crises, both spiritual and structural. As the new week begins, let’s stay informed, demand accountability, and above all, stay safe.
Reference
Start Your Week Informed: 10 Major Nigerian News Stories (May 19, 2025)