Nigeria Digest: Key Developments on August 4, 2025

The Odua People’s Assembly accused former Senate President David Mark of plotting to destabilize the African Democratic Congress, calling for accountability and warning that such actions undermine Nigeria's democratic framework.

Lamis Shehu Dikko, chairperson of the Northern Nigeria Development Commission, advocated for constitutional reforms to formalize regional development bodies and address governance challenges in Nigeria's federal structure.

Ajibola Basiru, APC National Secretary, advised Nasir el-Rufai to focus on finding employment rather than criticizing President Bola Tinubu, suggesting he wait until 2027 to voice his concerns.

Former Taraba lawmaker Usman resigned from the APC, citing a loss of faith in the party's internal processes and dissatisfaction with the 2023 primaries for the Taraba South Senatorial seat.

Abubakar Sadiq Yaradua resigned from the APC, blaming the party for Nigeria's insecurity and economic hardship, and criticizing its economic policies for harming citizens.

INEC warned Bayelsa State voters against multiple voter registrations, emphasizing the illegality of the practice and its commitment to ensuring electoral integrity.

Former Taraba Representative Shiddi explained his exit from the APC, citing dissatisfaction with the party's democratic processes and the outcome of the 2023 Taraba South Senatorial primaries.

The Yoruba socio-cultural group Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá criticized President Tinubu's administration for rising insecurity and economic hardship, urging him to prioritize public needs.

Supporters of Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara have defected to the ADC, potentially challenging his bid for re-election following his suspension in March 2025.

Peter Obi pledged to serve only one term if elected president in 2027, emphasizing that prolonged tenure is not a measure of success and seeking to break the cycle of long-term rule.

Ekiti Governor Oyebanji announced his second-term bid, expressing confidence in his candidacy despite ongoing APC internal conflicts.

A group of Benue State indigenes called on the EFCC to investigate a former commissioner and his ally for alleged corruption and abuse of office.

The EFCC arrested 26 individuals, including two herbalists, in Ibadan for alleged cybercrime, with charges related to internet fraud pending against them.

A civil rights group raised concerns over the alleged misuse of magistrate and area courts in Kebbi State to target political opponents, demanding an immediate investigation.

Aluko & Oyebode, Nigeria's leading law firm, announced leadership changes, including key positions filled by seasoned legal professionals, demonstrating its commitment to continued growth and market dominance.

According to the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, Nigeria's GDP is projected to reach $450 billion by the end of 2025, fueled by economic recovery, barring unforeseen disruptions.

A minister within President Tinubu's administration asserts that the All Progressives Congress retains a strong hold on northern Nigeria's political landscape, making it difficult for opposition figures like Atiku and Obi to gain significant influence.

Bilateral relations between the UAE and Nigeria are strengthening, leading to increased trade, investment, and economic growth.

The NGX Group's strong performance in the first half of the year indicates positive economic transformation and a robust capital market in Nigeria.

Nigerian stock investors have experienced substantial gains, exceeding N25.7 trillion in seven months, attributed to macroeconomic stability and sector liberalization.

Gambia's Prime Minister has unveiled an Economic and Social Recovery Plan, aiming to accelerate reforms through a cabinet reshuffle.

Flutterwave's CEO emphasizes that seamless cross-border payments are essential for unlocking Africa's economic growth potential.

Banks are reducing their reliance on borrowing from the Central Bank of Nigeria, opting instead for higher-interest deposit options, resulting in a 12.84% decline in borrowing.

Experts forecast a 70% growth in Nigeria's Balance of Payment by 2025, with foreign reserves potentially reaching $43 billion.

Hajia Hadiza Mohammed warns that Nigeria's burgeoning debt profile, having increased over 1,141% in a decade, poses a serious risk to the nation's financial stability.

A group advocates for improved healthcare services for people with disabilities in Kwara State, highlighting the need for inclusivity and equitable access to care.

A Lancet report sheds light on the impending liver cancer crisis, emphasizing the urgency to address preventable risk factors like obesity and hepatitis.

The Gates Foundation announces significant funding to promote research and innovation focused on women's health, specifically in maternal, menstrual, and sexual health, globally.

Ghana's President John Mahama will host the Africa Health Sovereignty Summit to reimagine global health governance.

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) expressed frustration over the continued closure of the Mother and Child Hospital and the Dr Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Centre, despite being fully operational for over three years. They urged the Rivers State Government to address the situation and utilize these facilities to improve healthcare access.

To combat malaria, the Oyo State government distributed over five million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) across its 33 local governments. Officials emphasized the importance of proper usage and warned against hoarding or selling the nets.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported 9 new COVID-19 deaths and 284 new infections, with the FCT leading in cases, followed by Kaduna State and Rivers State.

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and its partners awarded $280,000 to Nigerian innovators through the NSIA Prize for Innovation (NPI 3). The prize aimed to support solutions addressing socio-economic challenges, with specific prizes for healthcare and impact ideas.

The Ekiti State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) reported they are working on 1,000 kilometers of rural access roads, aiming to improve access to markets and boost road safety.

Minister Nyesom Wike pledged continued infrastructure development across Abuja ahead of the FCT's 50th anniversary in 2026, emphasizing ongoing projects and future goals like completed flats for the Nigerian Law School.

Senator Abubakar Sadiq Yar'adua left the All Progressives Congress (APC) due to concerns over its policies, claiming they prioritize wealthy interests over the well-being of the people.

The Lagos State Government issued a 21-day ultimatum to 176 unregistered estate developments, urging them to obtain mandatory layout approvals to ensure safe and organized city development.

Residents of Ondo State protested over deteriorating federal roads, demanding government intervention, while officials assured that reconstruction efforts are underway.

Zamfara State police eliminated eight bandits during a clash with a joint team of security forces. One police officer sustained injuries during the operation in Fegin Kanawa village.

In Ondo State, police arrested 10 foreign nationals for alleged human trafficking. They were reportedly forcing a Congolese national into the country under false pretenses of business training.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested multiple individuals involved in distributing illicit drugs, including dispatch riders in Abuja. They also intercepted a shipment of cocaine and phenacetine concealed in lipstick heading to Equatorial Guinea through the Lagos airport.

At least 23 women were abducted by gunmen from Moriki town in Zamfara State. This followed a tragic incident where 33 people were killed out of 50 kidnapped victims after a ransom payment in another part of the state.

Abducted Nigerian Law School Students were reportedly forced to pay N10 million each for their release, contradicting police claims that they were rescued. One student accused the kidnappers of using a community as a shield and influencing the military.

Bandits abducted five and rustled cows in Zamfara, possibly in retaliation against a local security volunteer.

Following a fire at the Timber market in Owerri, Imo State, traders faced significant losses. A prominent trader reported the destruction of several machines, while transportation authorities attributed the fire to undetermined causes.

Flooding in Niger State has devastated farmland and submerged communities, prompting the government to issue evacuation warnings and launch a public awareness campaign.

Nigeria celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Oyo State, marking a significant step for agricultural and industrial growth, spearheaded by the African Development Bank, Governor Seyi Makinde, and Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari.

Nigeria has launched the world's largest garment factory in Ogun State, dedicating 10 hectares to cotton farming to boost textile production and reduce reliance on foreign industries.

The SEC highlighted West Africa's emergence as a global hotspot for virtual asset adoption, citing high remittance flows and the potential for cryptocurrency to disrupt traditional financial systems.

A cybersecurity expert called on African organizations to prioritize strategic, governance-led framework implementation to strengthen cyber defenses and digital resilience.

Algo Capital closed its Algo VC Fund at $200 million, using a strategy focused on investing across the Algorand ecosystem, from blockchain protocol to applications for borderless economic growth.

Chams HoldCo announced a hybrid equity offer of N7.9 billion to raise capital for expansion, support long-term growth, and strengthen the company’s financial position.

AI retargeting is poised to define the next decade in marketing, with AI-generated ads showing 37% higher purchase intent and solving marketing’s challenge of measuring touchpoints driving sales.

Tanzania is advancing gender equality in STEM through initiatives like the African Girls Can Code program, supported by policy reforms and partnerships with UN Women and others to empower girls in digital skills.

The 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards will recognize young people aged 15–29 leading impactful development work, with applications open until October 17, 2025.

Odumodublvck plans to quit music once his Anti World Gangstars collective achieves success.

Ayra Starr and The Ben thrilled fans at the Giants of Africa festival closing concert in Kigali.

Do2dtun emphasizes the importance of preserving Nigerian culture and appreciating local creations.

Olamide finds managing YBNL easier than being an artist, having mentored talents like Fireboy DML and Asake.

Burna Boy praises Shaboozey for thriving in American country music, a genre traditionally closed to Black artists.

Clarence Peters lauds Burna Boy as Nigeria's top artist, noting his exceptional stage presence and brand-building skills.

Nigerian political parties are compared to a 'mess of iguanas,' with the state assemblies likened to a 'glaring of cats' and bandits referred to as a 'murder of crows,' highlighting the chaotic and complex nature of the country's political landscape.

Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, criticized Atalanta for breaking promises related to a transfer, despite leading the team to victory in the UEFA Europa League final.

The Christian Association of Nigeria in northern states urged the adoption of Kaduna's peace model nationwide, praising the state's progress in interfaith harmony.

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) called on the National Assembly to establish Federal Sharia Courts across Nigeria, including in southern regions, arguing it is necessary to ensure equality and protect Islamic law.

The Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN) congratulated Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III on his 15th anniversary as Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) reiterated its call for the establishment of Federal Sharia Courts across Nigeria, advocating for legislative action to ensure equality and legal protection for Muslims.