Nigeria's July 29, 2025 Highlights

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission has affirmed its dedication to conducting free and fair local government elections on August 30, 2025, in all 23 local government areas.

Dr Ijomah Arodiogbu, the Southeast zonal chairman of the All Progressives Congress, predicts that the party will win the Anambra state governorship election scheduled for November 8.

The South East Zone of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) anticipates two current governors from the region joining the party before the 2027 elections.

The South East Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA) is urging support for President Bola Tinubu's second term bid, citing recent infrastructure approvals for the South East as a key reason.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has banned former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai from the party for 30 years following allegations of falsely representing his membership and promoting other parties.

The Bayelsa State Government has declared the suspension of the head of Ikebiri Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area unlawful and established a panel to investigate the matter.

Former All Progressives Congress National Vice Chairman Lukman advises the interim leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against imposing leadership and engaging in godfatherism as they prepare for the 2027 elections.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed confidence that President Tinubu's popularity among Nigerian governors makes his reelection bid in 2027 unlikely to face opposition.

Former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff stressed the importance of regional collaboration with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger to effectively combat Boko Haram, emphasizing that the insurgency transcends state borders.

Musa Idris Ubandoma, a Fulani man from Plateau State, expressed controversial conditions for peace in the state, stating that a Fulani Muslim deputy governor, increased support for Muslims, and financial assistance for religious pilgrimages are essential.

Senator Lukman urged members of the ADC party to resist potential imposition of candidates and god-fatherism, emphasizing the importance of internal democracy within the party.

The Northern Governors' Forum praised President Tinubu's commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises, noting his administration's efforts to stabilize the country and improve livelihoods despite economic hurdles.

A youth advocacy group is calling for the suspension of the Managing Director of Jigawa Savings and Loans Limited due to ongoing fraud and tax evasion allegations against him.

Following a video of Ghanaians protesting against Nigerians, Nigerian authorities are engaging in diplomatic efforts with Ghana to address the escalating tensions and xenophobic sentiment.

Tragically, 33 people kidnapped in Zamfara State were killed by bandits despite their captors receiving a ransom of over $33,000, highlighting the brutality of the situation.

In Okitipupa, Ondo State, a 25-year-old man was fatally stabbed by his girlfriend during an argument allegedly sparked by infidelity. The suspect has been arrested and is awaiting trial.

Kogi State Police recovered the body of slain photojournalist Ayo Aiyepeku, allegedly murdered by a Nigeria Correction Service officer, and have assured the deceased's family of a thorough investigation.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command recorded 23 convictions in the first six months of the year for offenses including stealing, assault, burglary, and felony.

A woman allegedly stabbed her boyfriend to death following a dispute in Ondo State, using scissors as the weapon. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Armed herdsmen killed a young farmer in Benue's Ukum Local Government Area, sparking fresh fears among residents due to increasing attacks in the region.

A faction of Boko Haram known as JAS has expanded its influence near Nigeria's capital, Abuja, by adopting a flexible approach that interacts with local bandit groups. Unlike rivals like ISWAP, JAS prioritizes ideological fluidity and resource acquisition over strict doctrinal adherence.

A Borno State High Court sentenced Ibrahim Aisami and Bunu Usman Dankoli to prison for their involvement in a fraud scheme exceeding N10.5 million.

The Rector of the International College of Administration, Science and Technology, Adesina Satiregun, was sentenced to seven years in prison by a Federal High Court in Nasarawa for operating fraudulent courses at his institution.

Police in Akwa Ibom arrested Chibuzor Amaechi for suspected fraud after he attempted to carry out illegal activities at a bank in Uyo and multiple ATM cards were recovered.

A report from Media Rights Agenda accuses the Tinubu administration of suppressing press freedom through restrictive laws and increased attacks on journalists, a claim the government denies.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended seven Chinese citizens and four Nigerians in Akwa Ibom for suspected illegal mining operations.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) reports that 92 MDAs have not yet established anti-corruption units, despite this being a requirement mandated by the ICPC Act.

Between June and July, the Nigeria Police Force arrested over 5,000 suspects, rescued 170 kidnapping victims, and implemented increased security measures nationwide, according to Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

Kano State Police arrested a notorious armed robbery suspect, Mu’azu Barga, and 14 others during an anti-thuggery operation, confiscating four stolen mobile phones.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for lower interest rates to combat inflation and stimulate economic growth by reducing borrowing costs and encouraging investment.

Investors showed strong confidence in the Nigerian economy, as subscriptions for July's bond auction reached ₦261 billion across various bonds.

Peter Obi has accused the President of using misleading statistics to obscure Nigeria's economic challenges, while the administration maintains the accuracy of its data.

Dangote Cement reported a significant increase in Nigerian exports and a substantial net profit for the first half of 2024.

Nigerian authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illicit financial flows, aiming to recover lost revenue and enhance financial transparency.

Effective immediately, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has stopped issuing tax exemption certificates to all entities, including NGOs and free zone companies.

Nigerian farmers are protesting President Tinubu's policies that encourage imports of rice and maize, citing negative impacts on local production and livelihoods.

Lassa fever has claimed 152 lives in Nigeria over the past seven months, prompting the NCDC to urge public vigilance and prompt medical attention.

The Katsina State Government has launched a program offering free treatment for typhoid to improve healthcare access and reduce the disease's burden.

On World Hepatitis Day, Nigeria is urged to prioritize efforts to combat viral hepatitis, which poses a significant global health challenge.

Minister Nyesom Wike has warned HMOs to promptly remit payments to healthcare providers under the FCT insurance scheme or face consequences.

Whistleblowers within the Federal Fire Service have accused the Controller General of making unauthorized appointments and threatened strike action, prompting a petition to the Interior Minister.

President Tinubu has appointed a successor to the Federal Fire Service boss ahead of his retirement, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership.

Peter Obi has criticized the government's continued borrowing, citing concerns over Nigeria's N187 trillion debt and the lack of accountability.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria cautions against viewing the revised GDP estimate as a sign of significant economic progress, urging a focus on industrial development for sustainable growth.

President Bola Tinubu awarded automatic federal civil service jobs, $250,000 cash rewards, and postgraduate scholarships to 200 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) honorees, recognizing their contributions and achievements.

A 30-room building in Ilorin, Kwara State, was completely destroyed by a fire, prompting a swift response from firefighters. Local authorities emphasize the importance of fire safety practices.

The Ogun State Police reported that six stray elephants killed a farmer in Itasin-Imobin, with calm restored after the incident.

The police arrested the site engineer of a collapsed building in Umuahia, which injured three people, as the state prepares to distribute agric inputs to boost food security.

Nigeria's tech startup ecosystem saw over $400 million in funding in 2024, according to NITDA, supported by initiatives like the Nigeria Startup Act and the digital free zone.

CUTIX Plc achieved a 30% revenue increase to ₦15.8 billion in four months, despite experiencing a decline in profit during the period.

Transcorp Power declared an interim dividend of ₦11.25 billion as its profit for the first half of 2025 reached ₦58.7 billion.

MTN Nigeria introduced an accelerator program to support African innovators in scaling their innovations and transforming industries.

Google launched its first AI Community Centre in Accra, Ghana, offering AI education, research opportunities, and 100,000 scholarships.

Malawian graduate Staff Nyoni developed an app for visually impaired learners and received MK38 million from Save the Children for his innovation.

Veteran entertainer Charly Boy shared the story behind how a bus stop in Lagos, Gbagada, was named after him, recognizing his contributions to the community through education and engagement.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) warns passengers against using unofficial websites for purchasing train tickets to avoid scams and fraudulent activities.

Architects, urban planners, activists, and stakeholders met in Lagos to propose sustainable housing solutions for low-income residents, focusing on the revitalization of the abandoned Ikoyi Secretariat.

The Rural Electrification Agency partnered with the Nigerian Correctional Service to provide clean energy solutions, aiming to enhance security and efficiency in prisons nationwide.

The African Union aims to increase agri-food production by 45% by 2035 through inclusive and sustainable agricultural policies.

The UN reported rising hunger in Africa, with 280 million people malnourished, despite global progress in reducing hunger.

Ethiopia has emerged as a leader in implementing UN food systems recommendations, successfully ending wheat imports and advancing climate-resilient agriculture.

In a collaborative effort to combat desertification in Nigeria's semi-arid regions, the Jigawa ACReSAL project and FAO launched a land restoration initiative in Sabaru Gallu community. The initiative focuses on engaging local communities and incorporating indigenous tree species to ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

Charly Boy expressed distrust in past governments, urging Nigerians to ensure the 2027 elections are conducted rightly to address corruption.

Blessing Amidu and her daughter Emmanuella are pioneering Nigerian animation with 'Secrets of the Multiverse,' blending local and international collaboration.

AFRIMA added new experts to its jury panel, including Mboukou and others from across Africa, ahead of the 2025 Adjudication Process.

Winny Adanu is gaining attention for her unique 'Afro reggae' style, featured in her debut EP and recognized by Apple Music as an emerging artist.

Efa Iwara described working on 'King of Boys' as magical, praising Kemi Adetiba's vision and sharing his journey overcoming a speech challenge.

Ubi Franklin stated that promiscuity is a significant challenge for many artists, affecting both male and female musicians.

Reuben Kigame announced his 2027 presidential bid, focusing on integrity and character-driven leadership across various institutions.

A Nigerian poet was appointed as the UN's first Global Advocate for Peace, promoting inclusive peace efforts through storytelling and public engagement.

Ayra Starr refuted rumors about her Roc Nation deal, denying claims of strict controls over her personal life and public image.

Over 250 Catholic bishops from across Africa will convene in Kigali, Rwanda for SECAM's 20th Plenary Assembly, focusing on key issues and showcasing Rwanda's capabilities as a host for significant events.