Nigeria Digest: July 28, 2025 - Key Highlights

Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu swore in 57 newly elected chairmen and vice-chairmen for the state's 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas. Sanwo-Olu urged the officials to avoid misuse of funds and prioritize grassroots development.

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Baba-Ahmed warned that election rigging in the 2027 elections could destabilize the country. He called on political leaders and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible elections.

The Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Area in Niger State, Aminu Yakubu Ladan, was suspended by the legislative council following allegations of misconduct and misappropriation of funds. Ladan had recently sued the state government over attempts to remove him from office.

A Sokoto state lawmaker distributed farm inputs to 2,800 constituents to help improve local agriculture. Former council leaders expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing farmers with resources.

Members of the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) protested at the state House of Assembly, demanding the removal of party chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi and federal lawmaker James Faleke. They cited concerns about candidate imposition and anti-grassroots leadership.

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) postponed the local government elections to August 30, 2025. The main elections will be held on August 30, with run-offs scheduled for September 6.

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State dismissed suggestions that the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) presents a significant threat in the 2027 elections, emphasizing the APC's strong coalition.

The RSIEC postponed the local government elections in Rivers State to August 30, 2025. The decision comes after the former RSIEC Chairman and board were dissolved following a state of emergency declaration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) stated that they are not fixated on zoning for the 2027 presidential election, instead focusing on building a grassroots campaign across Nigeria.

The article questions the lack of action by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a case involving the PWAN Group, and calls for the Lagos State House of Assembly to investigate.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) has charged a former aide to ex-Kaduna state Governor Nasir El-Rufai and three others with abuse of office and fraudulent estacode payments.

Nigerian police arrested a notorious bank fraudster in Akwa Ibom state, recovering numerous ATM cards from him. He is accused of using CCTV footage to identify potential victims and swindle them out of their money.

A promotion scandal has rocked the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), with staff accusing the Minister of Works and Housing, Abdullahi Tinubu, of corruption and nepotism.

The prosecution of former Kaduna State government officials over charges of abuse of office and fraudulent estacode payments began in Kaduna. The first witnesses called to testify were former Attorney General Aisha Dikko Kalil, former Head of Service Bariyatu Yusuf, and Samuel Aruwan.

Popular Lagos socialite Abu Abel was arrested by the Nigerian police for allegedly defrauding individuals of ₦447 million through a land scam. He is facing prosecution for fraud, land grabbing, and criminal intimidation.

Nigeria's domestic airlines express alarm over a steady decline in passenger traffic, citing economic challenges and concerns that the reintroduction of VAT on ticket sales in 2026 could worsen the situation.

Financial analysts are optimistic that the Central Bank of Nigeria's decision to hold benchmark rates will maintain stability in the foreign exchange market and continue to reduce inflation.

Nigeria's GDP rebasing provides a more comprehensive economic picture, highlighting the need for investments in agriculture and infrastructure to ensure inclusive development.

Peter Obi has accused President Tinubu of misrepresenting Nigeria's economic reality through manipulated statistics, including GDP data.

Nigeria's tax system faces challenges from mispriced trade and aggressive avoidance schemes, undermining efforts to meet financial responsibilities despite the country's resources.

Egypt has been recognized as a global leader in hepatitis C elimination, achieving control status with high vaccination rates and treating 70% of cases in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Nigeria has launched Project 365, a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and treating hepatitis B and C cases, with the goal of eliminating these diseases by 2030.

Lagos State Government has urged medical doctors to suspend a planned three-day warning strike, assuring them that their concerns are being addressed.

Hepatitis patients in Nigeria face funding challenges, with many unaware of their infection, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and access to treatment.

Women and children make up the majority of flood victims in Adamawa, currently housed in makeshift camps like Yelewa Primary School.

The Bayelsa Police Command has advocated for a review of procedures at waterway checkpoints to enhance the state's maritime security.

President Tinubu has expressed sorrow over flood and boat disaster tragedies, urging community leaders to promote safety practices to prevent such incidents.

A Chinese businessman was arrested at Lagos Airport as part of a drug bust, with NDLEA seizing various substances including cannabis and methamphetamine.

A man was shot dead by gunmen while buying food in the Ojo area of Lagos State, according to eyewitnesses.

Governor Ododo of Kogi has ordered a thorough investigation into the death of photojournalist Ayo, whose murder sparked outrage in the state. The prime suspect was later found dead in a hotel, with initial findings suggesting suicide.

A woman in Ondo stabbed her boyfriend to death after an argument over alleged infidelity. The suspect is in police custody and will be charged after investigations conclude.

Over 100 Community Watch Corps members and 30 police officers have been killed in Katsina's anti-banditry efforts, with the government committed to supporting security forces.

Femi Falana, a prominent Nigerian lawyer, has criticized the renaming of streets in Lagos state by local authorities, arguing it is unconstitutional.

The Nigerian Correctional Service and the Rural Electrification Agency have partnered to enhance power supply, vocational training, and operational efficiency in correctional facilities.

Vice-President Shettima announced that the federal government is leveraging artificial intelligence and other technologies to boost food production and minimize agricultural waste.

The Senate has announced a reform plan for agricultural colleges and will lead a delegation to COP30, aiming to promote green colleges and showcase Nigeria's agricultural innovations.

Rice prices in Nigeria have surged to N100,000, with critics blaming smuggling and calling for long-term support for local farmers to ensure food security.

EdaChain and EdaFace are introducing EDA Coin, a cryptocurrency designed for use in various applications across their platform and the wider blockchain ecosystem.

eTranzact recorded a 54% jump in profit growth for the 2024 fiscal year, achieving a significant turnaround for the electronic payment company.

Ghanaian music icon Daddy Lumba has passed away at 60, with President Mahama promising a befitting funeral for the influential artist.

Three male housemates from Big Brother Naija season 10 include a medical doctor, a hype man, and a stylish contender aiming to make an impact.

A TikToker and another individual have been remanded over alleged libel against the late Mohbad's wife, charged under the Cybercrime Act.

Newly unveiled male housemates of BBNaija season 10 include a creative artist, an energetic hype man, and a banker with a royal lineage.

Nigeria has bid to host Africa's first Formula 1 Grand Prix in decades, planning a new racetrack in Abuja to bring the event back to the continent.

A court has ruled that NYSC must allow female corps members to wear skirts for religious reasons, declaring the previous ban unconstitutional and a rights violation.