The latest headlines from Nigerian newspapers highlight key developments across politics, economy, and governance. From budgetary concerns and economic reforms to arrests and judicial rulings, these stories provide insight into the nation’s pressing issues and evolving landscape.
INEC Rejects N40 Billion Budget Allocation
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the N40 billion allocated to it in the 2025 federal budget. INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made this known during the budget defense session before the joint committee on INEC and Electoral Matters at the National Assembly on Friday.
Nigeria Saves N930 Billion from Economic Reforms
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, disclosed on Friday that the economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the market-based pricing of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and adjustments to foreign exchange policies, have saved the country N930 billion in previously lost revenue. This amounts to about five percent of the revenue losses that were addressed.
Obasanjo Reflects on Imprisonment Under Abacha
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo revealed in an interview on Friday that his outspoken nature on both national and international issues led to his imprisonment by the military junta of General Sani Abacha in 1995. Obasanjo noted that his refusal to remain silent on critical matters led to his incarceration at the time.
Calls for Local Government Autonomy Compliance
The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) have urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that state governors adhere to the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. ALGON Secretary-General, Mohammed Abubakar, expressed concerns over the delays in implementing this autonomy, emphasizing that governors continue to interfere with the process.
U.S. Repatriates $52.88m Linked to Diezani Alison-Madueke
The United States government has repatriated $52.88 million linked to former Petroleum Resources Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke. The funds, part of the forfeiture of the Galactica assets, were connected to Alison-Madueke and her associates.
Court Overturns Ruling on Emir of Kano Appointment
The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Friday overruled the Federal High Court’s verdict concerning the appointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano. The appellate court set aside the decision of the Kano Division of the Federal High Court, which had questioned his appointment as the 16th Emir of Kano.
EFCC Arrests Chinese Nationals and Nigerians Over Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended four Chinese nationals and 101 Nigerians in connection with suspected internet fraud. The arrests were made at a business apartment in the Gudu area of Abuja on Thursday, 9 January 2025, with the EFCC announcing the development via its official social media platforms.
Police Arrest Individual for N1.09 Billion Procurement Fraud
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) confirmed the arrest of a suspect involved in a procurement fraud worth N1.09 billion in Enugu State on Friday. Though the suspect’s identity remains undisclosed, the NPF’s National Cyber Crime Centre led the investigation, and the funds have been recovered.
DSS Arrests Blogger for Fake Recruitment Notice
The Department of State Services (DSS) arrested 32-year-old Augustus, a blogger from Akwa Ibom State, for cloning its official website and posting a fraudulent recruitment notice. Augustus was apprehended at his residence in Abak on Thursday.
Governor Makinde Appoints New Alaafin of Oyo
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appointed Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. This decision comes two years after the death of the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi and the controversy surrounding the selection of his successor.
The latest headlines from Nigerian newspapers
These stories reflect the dynamism of Nigeria’s socio-political and economic environment, underscoring ongoing efforts to ensure accountability, justice, and progress. As the nation navigates its challenges, these developments remain pivotal to shaping its future trajectory.