Nottingham Forest defeat Chelsea FC 3-1 at Stamford Bridge
Taiwo Awoniyi scores twice in his 100th appearance
Chelsea suffer sixth straight league loss — worst run since 1993
Forest move closer to Premier League survival
Main Story
Nottingham Forest delivered a decisive blow to Chelsea’s Champions League ambitions with a commanding 3-1 victory at Stamford Bridge, strengthening their own fight for Premier League survival.
Taiwo Awoniyi opened the scoring just 97 seconds into the game, marking his milestone 100th appearance for Forest in emphatic fashion. The Nigerian forward capitalised on defensive lapses to head home from close range.
Forest doubled their lead shortly after when Igor Jesus converted a penalty, awarded following a VAR review after a foul inside the box.
Chelsea’s woes deepened before half-time when Cole Palmer saw his penalty saved, compounding a lacklustre attacking display.
Awoniyi added his second early in the second half, effectively sealing the result before a late consolation goal from João Pedro, whose overhead kick did little to mask Chelsea’s struggles.
What’s Being Said
Chelsea’s performance has intensified scrutiny around the club’s instability, following a turbulent managerial cycle that has seen Liam Rosenior recently dismissed after a short tenure.
Club officials have maintained that Chelsea remains an attractive destination for top managers, but recent results and internal uncertainty may challenge that narrative.
What’s Next
Chelsea sit ninth in the table, with their Champions League hopes hanging by a thread as they trail the top-five positions.
Forest, meanwhile, have secured three consecutive league wins and are now six points clear of the relegation zone, requiring just a few more points to confirm survival with three games remaining.
The Nigerian private sector remained in growth territory at the start of the second quarter of the year as customer numbers and market demand continued to strengthen. That said, the impacts of higher fuel costs as a result of the war in the Middle East were felt again, pushing up prices and reportedly limiting expansions in new orders and business activity.
The headline figure derived from the survey is the Purchasing Managers’ Index™ (PMI®). Readings above 50.0 signal an improvement in business conditions on the previous month, while readings below 50.0 show a deterioration.
The headline PMI ticked up to 52.4 in April from 51.9 in March, above the 50.0 no-change mark for the third month running and signalling a solid strengthening in the health of the private sector. The rate of improvement was slightly greater than that seen in the previous survey period.
Improving demand conditions meant that new orders continued to rise, albeit with the rate of growth softening amid inflationary pressures.
Business activity also increased, and at a solid pace that was slightly faster than that seen in March. Here too, however, companies mentioned that rising prices had limited the pace of growth.
Activity rose in three of the four monitored sectors, the exception being services.
Anecdotal evidence suggested that prices were often driven higher by increased fuel costs due to the war in the Middle East. Purchase prices increased rapidly, with the rate of inflation little-changed from March’s 15-month high. Meanwhile, staff costs rose modestly as companies in some cases increased pay to help workers deal with higher transportation fares.
The pass through of increased input costs to customers resulted in a further sharp rise in output prices, with the rate of inflation quickening to the fastest since December 2024.
Muyiwa Oni, Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank commented:
“The health of Nigeria’s private sector improved in April – remaining above the 50-points growth threshold for the third consecutive month – as new orders increased in line with higher customer numbers and rising demand even as price pressures remain prevalent. Accordingly, the headline PMI increased to 52.4 points in April from 51.9 points seen in March. Despite the improvement in new orders, we understand that lingering inflationary pressures limited the pace of expansion. Notably, companies increased their selling prices in April to the highest level since December 2024 in response to rising fuel and raw material costs. Staff costs also increased modestly as some companies increased their staff pay so as to help them with increasing transportation fares. Business expectations also improved in April compared to March as businesses plan to expand their operations through the opening of new branches, stock building, and entry into new markets.
“The improved start of the second quarter of the year by Nigerian businesses continue to support our view of improved growth expectations in 2026 relative to 2025. Hence, we still maintain our expectation that the Nigerian economy is likely to grow by 4.22% y/y in 2026, from 3.87% y/y in 2025. We estimate the non-oil sector’s growth at 4.24% y/y in 2026, from 3.71% y/y in 2025, likely driven primarily by services, which we see growing by 5.64% y/y in 2026 (vs 2025: 4.14% y/y). The government’s continuous investment attraction across oil & gas, solid minerals, electricity, agriculture and general manufacturing should continue to support sentiment on production activity. However, the oil sector’s growth is likely to moderate to 3.01% y/y (vs 2025: 8.50% y/y), as we now expect crude oil production (including condensates) to average 1.70m bpd, from 1.64m bpd in 2025.”
Some firms reported that staff shortages had been behind the latest accumulation of backlogs of work, while others cited customer payment delays and issues securing raw materials. Outstanding business increased for the third consecutive month in April.
Further efforts were made to secure materials, with purchasing activity increasing for the seventeenth month running in April. Stocks of purchases also rose amid improving customer demand, and at a marked pace that was the sharpest in five months.
Chief of Army Staff calls for strengthened discipline and operational efficiency across formations.
Convention focuses on leadership, combat readiness, and professional excellence of Regimental Cadre personnel.
Military leaders highlight evolving security threats requiring innovation and stronger unit-level execution.
Main story
The Nigerian Army has commenced its 2026 Regimental Cadre (Militia) Convention in Kaduna, with a renewed focus on enhancing combat readiness, discipline and professional excellence across its formations.
Declaring the convention open, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shu’aibu, emphasised the critical role of Regimental Cadre personnel in both operational and administrative effectiveness of the Army.
Represented by the Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Maj.-Gen. Dangana Allu, the COAS said the convention’s theme, “Empowering Regimental Cadre to Drive Combat Readiness and Professional Excellence,” underscores the need to build the capacity of personnel responsible for enforcing discipline and implementing command directives at unit level.
He noted that Nigeria’s current security challenges demand a highly disciplined and mission-ready force, stressing that Regimental Cadre personnel serve as the vital link between command decisions and field execution.
“As custodians of discipline and regimentation, you serve as the bridge between command directives and their execution. Your conduct must reflect professionalism, integrity and leadership worthy of emulation,” he said.
The COAS added that the convention is designed to equip participants with leadership skills and competencies required to support commanders in improving operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Administration, Maj.-Gen. Isa Abdullahi, described the convention as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the Army’s professional and administrative framework.
He noted that Regimental Sergeant Majors play a pivotal role as senior non-commissioned officers responsible for maintaining discipline, mentoring troops and ensuring effective implementation of policies at the grassroots level.
“The effectiveness of any unit depends largely on the ability of Regimental Sergeant Majors to enforce standards, mentor troops and translate strategic directives into actionable outcomes,” he said.
Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, highlighted the importance of the convention as a platform for leadership development and knowledge exchange.
He said the evolving security landscape, marked by asymmetric threats and rapid technological changes, requires a blend of experience, innovation and strong leadership.
Wase assured participants of adequate logistical support and urged them to remain security-conscious throughout the programme.
The convention features sessions led by experienced military officers and subject-matter experts, with discussions centred on leadership, discipline, combat readiness, troop welfare and civil-military relations.
The issues
The convention comes amid persistent security challenges across Nigeria, including insurgency, banditry and other asymmetric threats requiring improved operational coordination.
It also highlights the need for stronger discipline, leadership and effective communication between command structures and field units.
What’s being said
Military leadership emphasised that enhancing the capacity of Regimental Cadre personnel is key to strengthening operational efficiency.
They stressed that professionalism, discipline and continuous training remain central to achieving mission success.
What’s next
Outcomes from the convention are expected to inform improvements in training, leadership development and operational strategies within the Army.
Participants are also expected to cascade knowledge gained to their respective units to enhance overall effectiveness.
Bottom line
The Nigerian Army is doubling down on discipline and leadership at the unit level, positioning Regimental Cadre personnel as critical drivers of combat readiness and operational success.
Troops neutralized scores of terrorists and apprehended several others in multiple nationwide operations over a 24-hour period.
Significant gains were recorded in Borno, including the destruction of gun trucks and life-support structures.
A terrorist attack on a Forward Operating Base in Zamfara was successfully repelled, despite the looting of some community shops.
Military personnel intercepted 76 individuals in Nasarawa State allegedly involved in a “dubious recruitment scheme”.
Operations in Plateau led to the recovery of a locally fabricated rifle and ammunition following a previous fatal attack on security personnel.
Main Story
The Nigerian Army has reported a series of successful operations over the last 24 hours, resulting in the neutralization of scores of terrorists and the arrest of several suspects across various theaters.
In the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai engaged logistics suppliers in Gwoza and identified concealed gun trucks through aerial surveillance in Konduga.
Furthermore, life-support structures belonging to insurgents were destroyed at Gakara high ground and Ndova village to degrade their operational capabilities.
In the North-West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma repelled an attack on the Forward Operating Base Bagega in Zamfara.
While two gun trucks were destroyed during the encounter, the attackers managed to loot shops and burn parts of the community before fleeing.
Beyond combat operations, troops in Nasarawa State intercepted 76 people linked to what is believed to be a “fraudulent” recruitment scheme involving foreign business entities. These suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to determine the nature of the activity.
The Issues
The continued presence of “terrorist logistics suppliers” highlights the ongoing challenge of cutting off insurgent supply lines.
The use of “aerial surveillance” remains critical in discovering concealed equipment like gun trucks hidden under trees.
Criminal elements are diversifying their tactics, as evidenced by the “dubious recruitment scheme” linked to foreign entities.
Community safety remains at risk during skirmishes, illustrated by the looting and burning of shops in the Bagega community.
What’s Being Said
“In another operation, troops destroyed suspected terrorist life-support structures at Gakara high ground and Ndova village, further degrading insurgents’ capabilities.” — Nigerian Army Operational Report
“Preliminary investigation suggests the activity may be fraudulent in nature. The suspects are currently in custody for further action.” — Nigerian Army Operational Report regarding the Nasarawa arrests
“The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorists and criminal elements while ensuring the protection of lives and property across the country.” — Nigerian Army Operational Report
What’s Next
Follow-up operations are currently ongoing in the Dipchari axis of Bama LGA following the neutralization of a terrorist.
Investigations will continue into the 76 suspects intercepted in Nasarawa to uncover the full extent of the recruitment fraud.
The Army intends to maintain “aggressive patrols and offensive operations” across all sectors to prevent further major incidents.
Further intelligence-led investigations are expected regarding the suspect arrested along the Lokoja–Abuja road.
Bottom Line
Sustained Pressure. The Nigerian Army is utilizing a combination of aerial surveillance, ambush tactics, and intelligence-led arrests to degrade terrorist capabilities while simultaneously cracking down on fraudulent recruitment schemes.
In communities where clean water is uncertain and discarded materials pile up without purpose, Joy Chiadika-Nwaeze sees neither waste nor limitation, she sees raw material for a movement.
A climate policy influencer and sustainability advocate, Chiadika-Nwaeze has built her work around a single conviction: that Nigeria’s sustainability gap is not a problem of awareness, but of access, tools, and actionable systems. Through Africa Upcycle Community and her broader advocacy at grassroots and policy levels, she is turning that conviction into measurable change – one upcycled product, one trained community, one influenced government at a time.
Q&A
At what point did climate advocacy become more than an interest and turn into a life mission for you?
Climate advocacy became a life mission when I realized that awareness alone was not enough. Around the time I began engaging more deeply with communities and seeing the tangible effects of climate risks, I realized that sustained action and systemic change, including direct engagement with governments and influencing policies, were necessary. Founding Africa Upcycle Community marked a turning point, it shifted my role from participant to driver of solution
What personal experiences or influences shaped your passion for environmental sustainability?
My passion was shaped by observing firsthand how environmental challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, particularly in areas with limited access to clean water and proper waste management systems. Growing up and working within such contexts made it clear that environmental issues are not abstract; they directly impact health, livelihoods, and dignity. These lived realities, combined with my academic background in CSR and international business, pushed me to explore sustainable solutions that are both socially inclusive and economically viable.
What gap in Nigeria’s environmental or sustainability space motivated you to start your initiatives?
One of the most pressing gaps I identified was the disconnect between environmental awareness and actionable solutions, especially at the grassroots level. Many communities understand the problems but lack access to tools, knowledge, or platforms to act. Additionally, there was limited integration of circular economy practices and climate education into everyday life. My initiatives were designed to bridge that gap, making sustainability practical, accessible, and economically beneficial. It is also focused on making
How do your programmes, such as Africa Upcycle Community, translate awareness into real behavioural change?
We focus on experiential learning as well as practical, relatable experiences and community ownership. Through Africa Upcycle Community, participants don’t just learn about sustainability, they practice it. We train individuals to convert waste into valuable products, integrate climate education into local contexts, and empower them to become advocates within their own communities. This hands-on approach fosters long-term behavioural change because people see direct value in adopting sustainable practices.
In practical terms, how does your work contribute to economic opportunities or development in Nigeria?
Our programmes create green economic opportunities by equipping individuals with skills in upcycling and sustainable entrepreneurship. Participants are able to generate income from waste materials, which not only reduces environmental pollution but also supports livelihoods. By promoting circular economy models, we contribute to job creation, innovation, and local economic resilience.
What are the biggest challenges you face as a sustainability advocate working at both grassroots and policy levels?
One of the biggest challenges is navigating the gap between policy and implementation. While there is increasing attention on climate issues at policy levels, translating those commitments into real impact at the grassroots can be slow and complex. Additionally, resource constraints and limited infrastructure in some communities can hinder scalability. Balancing global advocacy with local realities also requires constant adaptation.
As a woman in this space, how do you navigate representation and leadership barriers?
I navigate these barriers by focusing on competence, collaboration, and consistency. While challenges around representation exist, I see them as opportunities to open doors for others. I actively support inclusive spaces and mentorship, ensuring that more women and young people can step into leadership roles within sustainability.
Do you believe young people in Nigeria are adequately included in conversations about the green economy? If not, what is missing?
Not yet. While there is growing interest, meaningful inclusion is still limited. Young people are often seen as beneficiaries rather than contributors. What is missing is structured engagement platforms that allow youth to co-create policies, access funding, and scale their innovations. There is also a need for more investment in green skills development.
You often speak about responsible digital behaviour, how does this connect to environmental or national development goals?
Responsible digital behaviour is an often-overlooked aspect of sustainability. Digital tools can amplify climate action, but they also contribute to environmental impact through energy consumption and misinformation. Promoting responsible use means leveraging technology for education, advocacy, and innovation while being mindful of its footprint. It also ties into national development by fostering informed, responsible citizens.
Looking ahead, what impact do you hope your work will have in the next decade?
In the next decade, I hope to see a measurable shift where sustainability is not just discussed but embedded into everyday life across communities. I aim to scale the impact of Africa Upcycle Community, influence stronger climate policies globally, and contribute to building systems where environmental responsibility and economic growth go hand in hand. Ultimately, I want to help create a future where sustainable living is accessible, practical, and inclusive for all.
Joy Chiadika-Nwaeze is a climate policy influencer, corporate social responsibility expert, and public speaker working at the intersection of governance, sustainability, and community development. Her work focuses on advancing climate action through practical, inclusive solutions, particularly in climate education, WASH advocacy, and circular economy models such as upcycling.
As the founder of Africa Upcycle Community, she has led initiatives that have equipped over 25,000 individuals with green skills and environmental awareness, as well as engaged at the policy level, influencing about three governments so far, while contributing to global conversations with institutions such as UNESCO and advising on frameworks like the Greening Education curriculum.
Femi Otedola has dismissed viral reports claiming he funded the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as “completely and utterly false”.
The billionaire businessman clarified that he has not invested “a single kobo, not one dollar, not one naira” into the project.
Otedola revealed he has actually been “requesting a special allocation to participate in the refinery’s forthcoming public offer”.
He categorically stated that at no point did Alhaji Aliko Dangote “request for financing” from himself, Mr. Elumelu, or Mr. Adenuga.
These clarifications follow a prior disclaimer from the Dangote Group, which had already dismissed claims of personal borrowing from friends as “false, malicious, and baseless”.
Main Story
Femi Otedola has moved to “set the record straight” regarding his involvement in the financing of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, emphatically denying any personal investment in the project to date.
In a direct rebuttal to social media claims, Otedola asserted that the reports are “utterly false” and ignore the reality of his current stance toward the facility.
Rather than being a foundation financier, Otedola clarified that he is looking toward the future of the refinery by seeking a “special allocation” for its upcoming public offer.
This response reinforces an earlier statement from the Dangote Group, which had previously labeled publications suggesting a fallout over failed financial assistance as “wholly inaccurate”.
The Group had already clarified that Aliko Dangote does not fund his projects through personal borrowing from friends and maintains a “longstanding and cordial relationship” with other industry leaders.
Otedola emphasized that the Dangote Group is a “well-structured organisation” capable of raising capital through professional channels, warning that these “social media fabrications” are a deliberate attempt to “sow discord” within the nation’s business elite.
The Issues
“Calculated mischief” is being used to spread “lies dressed up as insider information” regarding private sector relationships.
The Dangote Group maintains that its refinery was not financed through “personal borrowing from friends,” challenging anyone to provide verifiable evidence.
There is a “deliberate attempt to create rifts” among prominent business leaders who have collaborated for decades.
The unauthorized use of Mr. Dangote’s likeness in “AI-generated advertisements” and fabricated statements is causing reputational damage.
What’s Being Said
“Reports claiming that Femi Otedola funded the Dangote Petroleum Refinery are completely and utterly false. He has not invested a single kobo, not one dollar, not one naira.” — Femi Otedola
“I can categorically state that at no point did Alhaji Dangote request for financing from Mr Elumelu, Mr Adenuga and myself.” — Femi Otedola
“The Group categorically rejects claims that the development of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals was financed through personal borrowing from friends.” — Anthony Chiejina, Dangote Group
“Nigeria deserves truth, not lies dressed up as insider information!” — Femi Otedola
What’s Next
Femi Otedola is positioned to participate as an investor through the refinery’s “forthcoming public offer”.
The Dangote Group has put all platforms on notice to “desist immediately” from disseminating false content.
The company stated it would take “legal action where required” to protect its reputation and that of its leadership.
Both parties are calling for a more responsible use of social media to avoid “manufactured drama”.
Bottom Line
Funding Rebuttal. Following the Dangote Group’s initial denial of personal lending, Femi Otedola has also moved to shut down claims of personal loans for refinery construction, reaffirming that the project used structured capital while he eyes future participation via a public offer.
As a new week unfolds, the pace of events in Nigeria’s economic and policy landscape shows no signs of slowing. Beyond the dominant headlines, a number of key developments quietly shaped market direction, fiscal conversations, and the broader outlook for businesses and investors.
This recap revisits seven critical stories from the past week, issues that may have slipped under the radar but carry significant implications for Nigeria’s financial stability, growth trajectory, and digital future. These stories provide the context needed to navigate the week ahead with clarity and insight.
1. CBN Moves to Reinforce Banking Stability with Stricter Dividend Controls
Nigeria’s banking sector entered a tighter regulatory phase as the Central Bank mandated prior approval for dividend declarations. The move is designed to strengthen capital buffers and ensure long-term resilience amid economic uncertainties.
Significance: The policy reflects heightened regulatory caution and may temper short-term investor expectations while safeguarding systemic stability.
2. Equities Market Gains N26.2 Trillion in April Rally
The Nigerian stock market recorded a remarkable surge, with market capitalisation rising by N26.2 trillion, buoyed by strong dividend sentiment and a rebound in global oil prices.
Significance: The rally underscores renewed investor confidence and reinforces equities as a viable wealth creation channel despite macroeconomic headwinds.
3. Nigeria Positioned for N6.8 Trillion Oil Revenue Boost
Amid rising global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions, Nigeria stands to realise an estimated N6.8 trillion windfall in additional revenue.
Significance: While this offers short-term fiscal relief, it also underscores the persistent vulnerability tied to oil dependence and the urgency of economic diversification.
Subnational governments continue to accumulate external debt, now nearing the $6 billion mark, even as federal allocations improve.
Significance: This trend raises concerns about fiscal discipline, debt sustainability, and the efficiency of resource utilisation at the state level.
5. Nigeria Customs Reports 38.66% Growth in Q1 Exports
Export earnings rose significantly to $925.84 million in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 38.66% increase driven by improved trade facilitation efforts.
Significance: The growth signals gradual progress in non-oil export expansion, a key pillar for long-term economic stability.
6. NEPC Unveils Nijazone Digital Marketplace to Boost Non-Oil Trade
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council launched the Nijazone platform in Imo State, aimed at connecting local producers to global markets through digital trade.
Significance: This initiative represents a strategic push towards leveraging technology to scale small businesses and deepen export penetration.
7. NDPC Raises Alarm Over 1,500 Cybersecurity Breaches
Nigeria’s data protection authority disclosed over 1,500 cyberattacks, highlighting vulnerabilities within the country’s digital ecosystem.
Significance: As digital adoption accelerates, strengthening cybersecurity frameworks will be critical to sustaining trust and attracting investment.
Taken together, these developments paint a picture of an economy at a delicate crossroads, balancing opportunity with risk, growth with caution, and innovation with regulation. While gains in the equities market and export performance offer optimism, rising debt levels, regulatory tightening, and cybersecurity threats serve as reminders of underlying structural challenges.
For policymakers, investors, and businesses alike, the message is clear: the week ahead will not just be shaped by new headlines, but by how these unfolding trends are interpreted and acted upon. In Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape, staying informed is no longer optional; it is essential.
Women Leaders Support Advancement (WLSA) plans a nationwide medical outreach.
The programme will start in Northern Nigeria before moving nationwide.
Over 1,500 women and children have already benefited in Kano.
Services include free consultations, drugs, tests, and referrals.
The initiative aims to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable groups.
Main Story
The Women Leaders Support Advancement (WLSA) Group has announced plans to carry out a nationwide medical outreach aimed at supporting vulnerable Nigerians who cannot afford basic healthcare services.
The initiative will cover all 36 states of the federation, starting with a phased rollout in
The outreach programme is part of a larger plan to ensure that people in every part of the country have access to essential healthcare services.
The Issues
Access to healthcare remains a major challenge in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural and low-income communities.
Many families cannot afford basic treatment, which means illnesses like malaria, high blood pressure, and infections often go untreated or worsen over time.
Women and children are among the most affected, as they often have limited financial resources and access to health services.
There are also gaps in healthcare infrastructure, including shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel in some areas.
These challenges highlight the need for interventions like the WLSA outreach, which aims to provide immediate support while raising awareness about healthcare access.
What’s Being Said
Speaking in Kano, the founder of WLSA, Deborah Jan-Hornecker, said the programme is designed to bridge healthcare gaps, especially among women and children in underserved communities.
According to her, many Nigerians struggle to access even the most basic medical care due to financial challenges.
“Not all women have the opportunity to work and earn money. Some cannot even afford simple medications like malaria or blood pressure drugs,” she said.
“That is why this intervention is important it brings relief, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.”
Deborah Jan-Hornecker explained that the programme has already made an impact in some communities.
She said the group previously carried out a similar outreach in Nasarawa State, where hospitals in Karu Local Government Area received essential drugs and medical supplies.
“Our goal is to reach all 36 states. We are starting with the 19 northern states, with Kano as a key milestone,” she said.
“From Kano, we will move to Zamfara and Kaduna. After completing the North, we will expand to the southern states.”
She added that the initiative is driven by a strong commitment to improving lives and supporting those who cannot afford medical care.
“This is our little way of giving back to society and closing the healthcare gap,” she said.
What’s Next
The next phase of the programme will see the outreach move to other northern states, including Zamfara and Kaduna.
WLSA plans to gradually expand the initiative across the country, ensuring that each state benefits from the programme.
During the outreach in Kano, more than 1,500 women and children received free medical services at the Sharada Primary Healthcare Centre.
Participants from across the state were provided with consultations, medications, diagnostic tests, and referrals for more serious health conditions.
SERAP and NGE call on government to protect journalists and end impunity for attacks across Nigeria.
NHRC warns that press freedom violations threaten democracy and announces tracking of abuses nationwide.
NBC urges broadcasters to prioritise credibility, accuracy and responsible journalism amid rising misinformation.
Main story
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s media and human rights sector have renewed calls for stronger protection of journalists, accountability for attacks, and improved press freedom enforcement as the world marked World Press Freedom Day.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors and security agencies to take urgent steps to safeguard journalists and address the growing culture of impunity in the country.
The appeal was made during a joint conference and interactive session held in Lagos, themed “The Role of the Media in Promoting People’s Rights, Accountability, and Access to Justice in the Context of Growing Insecurity in Nigeria.”
The event brought together editors, media professionals, civil society organisations and legal experts to examine the impact of insecurity on press freedom and democratic governance.
In a joint statement, SERAP and NGE expressed concern over escalating violence in several states, including Benue, Borno, Kwara, Plateau and Sokoto, citing killings, abductions, sexual violence and displacement as persistent threats.
They stressed that protecting journalists is essential to maintaining accountability, peace and democratic stability, warning that continued impunity undermines public trust in institutions.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also joined calls for stronger protection, describing press freedom as a constitutional right and a cornerstone of democracy.
NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr Tony Ojukwu, said attacks on journalists amount to attacks on democracy itself and weaken citizens’ right to information.
He expressed concern over ongoing cases of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, harassment and killings of media practitioners, noting that such actions encourage self-censorship and weaken public accountability.
Ojukwu further disclosed that the commission has begun systematic documentation of press freedom violations nationwide, with findings to be made public to strengthen accountability mechanisms.
He urged security agencies, government institutions and non-state actors to respect lawful media operations and ensure prompt investigation and prosecution of offenders.
Meanwhile, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) emphasised the need for responsible and credible journalism in maintaining national stability.
NBC Director-General, Charles Ebuebu, said press freedom must be balanced with professional discipline, accuracy and verification to prevent misinformation and its broader societal risks.
He noted that while dissent is essential in a democracy, credible information and institutional accountability are critical to sustaining peace and public trust.
The issues
The statements highlight persistent insecurity and impunity surrounding attacks on journalists in Nigeria, particularly in conflict-affected regions.
They also point to growing concerns over arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and harassment of media practitioners, which contribute to self-censorship and weakened democratic oversight.
Another key issue raised is the spread of misinformation, placing additional pressure on media institutions to balance freedom with responsibility.
What’s being said
SERAP and NGE insist that failure to protect journalists undermines constitutional rights and international obligations binding on Nigeria.
NHRC maintains that press freedom is not optional but legally guaranteed, warning that every attack on journalists erodes democratic values.
NBC, meanwhile, stresses that responsible journalism is essential for national cohesion, noting that credibility and accuracy are more important than speed or volume in reporting.
What’s next
Stakeholders are expected to intensify advocacy for stronger legal enforcement mechanisms to protect journalists and prosecute offenders.
The NHRC’s nationwide tracking initiative is also expected to provide data that could influence policy reforms and accountability measures.
Media regulators may further push for improved professional standards while balancing press freedom with efforts to curb misinformation.
Bottom line
As Nigeria joins the global observance of World Press Freedom Day, stakeholders are united in one message: journalists must be protected, impunity must end, and media freedom must be safeguarded as a pillar of democracy.
The Presidency announced that the North-West Climate Summit 2026 will reposition the region from “vulnerability to a hub for investment, resilience and green growth”.
Scheduled for Aug. 4, the summit is a “presidential initiative convened by the presidency’s community engagement office for the North-West”.
The initiative targets seven states: “Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara”.
A key feature of the summit is the launch of a “North-West Climate Fund to mobilise capital for climate-related projects”.
Plans include a “waste-to-wealth programme” designed to “formalise informal collection systems, create jobs and promote recycling”.
Main Story
The Federal Government is set to launch a strategic environmental and economic overhaul of Northern Nigeria through the North-West Climate Summit 2026.
Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement, Abdullahi Yakasai, stated on Wednesday that the “North-West faces significant environmental challenges,” but emphasized that desertification and water scarcity actually “create opportunities for sustainable growth and investment”.
He noted that under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, the summit represents a “strategic shift from climate vulnerability to climate investment” by aligning national climate priorities with execution at the state and local levels.
The summit is designed as a “platform for execution” rather than just a discussion forum. It will introduce a “Climate Investment Marketplace” to connect investors with viable regional projects and bridge the gap between “policy and implementation”.
According to the Managing Director of the North West Development Commission, Shehu Ma’aji, the commission, which serves “over 65 million people” will utilize this initiative to tackle critical issues like “land degradation, water scarcity and food insecurity” while addressing the high unemployment rate among the region’s “seven million youths”.
The Issues
The region currently struggles with “desertification, land degradation, [and] water scarcity,” which directly leads to “declining farm productivity”.
Over “seven million youths” in the North-West remain unemployed, a factor that stakeholders link to broader regional “insecurity”.
A primary hurdle is the existing “policy and implementation gaps” that have historically hindered the flow of “local and international financing” into climate projects.
The current “informal collection systems” for waste lack formalization, missing opportunities to convert refuse into “fertiliser, energy and other products”.
What’s Being Said
“The North-West faces significant environmental challenges, but these create opportunities for sustainable growth and investment.” — Abdullahi Yakasai
“This is not just a summit; it is a platform for execution.” — Abdullahi Yakasai
“My goal is to connect Nigeria’s climate priorities with local capital and partners.” — Mea Boykins, Lead Consultant
“The North-West faces significant environmental challenges, but these create opportunities for sustainable growth and investment.” — Abdullahi Yakasai
What’s Next
The summit will convene on Aug. 4 to begin mobilizing financing for regional “climate-resilient agriculture” and “renewable energy”.
The presidency will implement “awareness campaigns, town hall engagements and tree-planting initiatives” to drive community impact.
Organizers plan to establish the “North-West Climate Fund” to provide the necessary capital for long-term “green enterprise” projects.
The “waste-to-wealth programme” will begin equipping collectors and linking them with partners to convert waste into “energy and other products”.
Bottom Line
Green Transition. By transforming environmental threats like desertification into “investable solutions,” the Presidency aims to use the 2026 summit as a “scalable model” to drive economic resilience and green growth across the North-West.
Nigeria’s states and FCT’s external debt rose by 18.43% to $5.68bn in 2025 despite higher FAAC inflows.
33 out of 37 subnational governments increased borrowing, with Katsina and Kaduna among the fastest risers.
Debt servicing cost jumped to N455.38bn, tightening fiscal space for development spending.
Main story
Nigeria’s subnational debt profile has expanded significantly, with external borrowing by the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) climbing to $5.68bn by the end of 2025, up from $4.80bn in 2024, according to data from the Debt Management Office (DMO).
This represents an $884.66m increase within a year, or 18.43 per cent growth, even as states recorded a substantial rise in revenue inflows from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).
FAAC disbursements to states rose from N5.186tn in 2024 to N7.315tn in 2025, while total inflows, including derivation funds, reached approximately N8.934tn. Despite this liquidity boost, most states increased their reliance on external loans.
An analysis shows that 33 of 37 subnational entities expanded their debt portfolios, while only Edo, Rivers, Anambra, and Bayelsa recorded reductions. Edo led the decline with $29.02m, followed by Rivers with $28.69m.
However, borrowing increases far outweighed reductions, at a ratio of nearly 16 to 1.
States such as Katsina, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Plateau, Gombe, and Benue recorded notable spikes. Katsina almost doubled its external debt with a $100.16m increase, while Kaduna’s debt rose by $59.19m to $684.29m.
Lagos State, despite having the largest debt stock at $1.17bn, recorded a marginal increase of just 0.41 per cent, suggesting comparatively restrained borrowing behaviour.
Meanwhile, debt servicing obligations have also risen sharply. States collectively spent N455.38bn on external debt servicing in 2025, a 25.77 per cent increase from N362.08bn in 2024.
The issues
The growing debt profile has raised concerns about fiscal discipline and sustainability at the subnational level. Analysts note a contradiction between rising revenue allocations and continued borrowing.
A key concern is the increasing proportion of FAAC inflows being channelled into debt repayment rather than capital development or social services.
There are also warnings over exposure to foreign exchange risk, as dollar-denominated loans become more expensive to service amid naira depreciation.
Additionally, disparities between revenue growth and borrowing patterns suggest weak fiscal planning in several states, with limited emphasis on internally generated revenue (IGR) expansion.
What’s being said
Stakeholders have expressed concern over the trend. Fiscal transparency advocates argue that higher allocations have not translated into reduced borrowing pressure.
Analysts at the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) have previously warned that several states with modest allocations still carry high debt servicing burdens, raising questions about debt sustainability ratios.
Budget analysts also caution that rising federal transfers may be weakening incentives for states to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation.
Economic experts further warn that continued borrowing without productivity gains risks locking states into a cycle of debt dependency, where a growing share of income is committed to servicing obligations.
What’s next
Attention is expected to shift toward tighter fiscal monitoring and potential reforms aimed at improving subnational debt management.
States may face increasing pressure to prioritise internally generated revenue and adopt stricter borrowing frameworks tied to measurable economic returns.
Policy discussions are also likely to focus on improving transparency in borrowing decisions and strengthening debt sustainability assessments at the state level.
Bottom line
Despite record FAAC inflows, Nigeria’s states are borrowing more, not less—raising concerns about fiscal discipline and long-term sustainability.
Without stronger revenue mobilisation and more cautious borrowing practices, rising debt levels could gradually erode the fiscal gains from increased national revenues, leaving states more constrained in funding development priorities.
One confirmed case of hantavirus has been reported on a cruise ship.
Five additional cases are suspected, with investigations ongoing.
Three people have died, while one remains in intensive care.
The ship is currently off the coast of Cabo Verde in West Africa.
WHO is supporting medical response and risk assessment efforts.
Main Story
The World Health Organization has stepped in to support health authorities after a suspected outbreak of hantavirus was reported on a cruise ship currently off the coast of Cabo Verde.
According to the WHO, one case of the rodent-borne disease has been confirmed, while five others are still being investigated. Out of the six people affected so far, three have died, and one is currently receiving intensive care in South Africa.
The agency said medical care is being provided to both passengers and crew onboard the ship. It also confirmed that further laboratory testing and virus sequencing are ongoing to better understand the situation.
The Issues
Hantavirus is a rare but serious disease that is usually spread through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.
Although infections are uncommon, the disease can cause severe breathing problems and, in some cases, can be life-threatening.
The current situation has raised concerns because cruise ships often carry large numbers of people in close spaces, which can increase the risk of illness spreading quickly.
Another concern is the location of the ship. The vessel, operated by a Dutch company, left Argentina about three weeks ago and was heading to the Canary Islands before the situation developed.
Now positioned near Cabo Verde, the ship remains under close monitoring as health authorities work to contain the risk.
What’s Being Said
In a statement shared online, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the organisation is taking urgent steps to manage the situation.
He noted that WHO is helping to arrange medical evacuation for two passengers who are showing symptoms. The agency is also carrying out a full risk assessment and supporting those affected onboard the vessel.
“Rapid, coordinated action is critical to contain risks and protect public health,” he said.
The WHO has assured the public that it is actively managing the situation and working with international health authorities.
The agency has already informed its National Focal Points under the International Health Regulations, which guide how countries respond to health emergencies that could spread across borders.
Health experts say early detection, quick response, and proper medical care are key to controlling such outbreaks.
The WHO also plans to issue a public notice to keep countries informed and prepared.
What’s Next
Health authorities will continue testing suspected cases and monitoring the condition of affected passengers.
Medical evacuation efforts are underway for those needing urgent care, while others onboard are being closely observed.
Further updates are expected as laboratory results become available and investigations continue.
Authorities are also assessing whether there is any wider risk beyond the ship.
Bottom Line
While hantavirus cases are rare, the situation highlights how quickly health risks can emerge in shared environments like cruise ships.
With WHO’s support and ongoing response efforts, the focus remains on containing the outbreak and protecting lives.
Early action and global cooperation will be key to preventing further spread.
MTN Nigeria’s market value exceeds N19 trillion on NGX
Share price hits all-time high of ₦915
Q1 2026 earnings drive investor confidence
Data and fintech segments power revenue growth
Main Story
MTN Nigeria Plc has crossed a historic milestone on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), with its market capitalisation surpassing ₦19 trillion, driven by strong investor demand following a robust earnings performance.
The telecom giant’s share price surged to an all-time high of ₦915, representing an 11.6% gain within four trading sessions from an opening price of ₦820. The rally underscores renewed investor confidence in the company’s earnings trajectory and long-term growth outlook.
At this valuation, MTN Nigeria is trading significantly above its 52-week low of ₦240 per share, highlighting a sustained bullish trend that positions the stock as a potential hedge against Nigeria’s persistent inflationary pressures.
By the close of trading in April, the company’s valuation rose to ₦19.21 trillion, marking the highest level recorded on the NGX, supported by its 20.995 billion outstanding shares.
Q1 Earnings Drive Rally
Investor sentiment has been largely anchored on MTN Nigeria’s exceptional first-quarter performance for the period ended March 31, 2026.
According to its unaudited financial results, the company reported a 41.62% year-on-year increase in revenue to ₦1.498 trillion, up from ₦1.058 trillion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
Growth was broad-based across all revenue streams, with data services maintaining their position as the largest contributor. Data revenue climbed 56.16% to ₦826.1 billion, reflecting increasing smartphone penetration and rising demand for broadband services in Nigeria.
Voice revenue rose by 27.63% to ₦450.7 billion, while SMS revenue increased by 40.38% to ₦54.6 billion. Meanwhile, the fintech and value-added services segment recorded the fastest growth, surging 78.77% to ₦64.1 billion.
The revenue expansion was partly supported by a 50% tariff adjustment implemented in February 2025, which continues to influence topline growth.
Profitability Strengthens Despite Cost Pressures
MTN Nigeria’s strong revenue performance translated into improved profitability, with profit from operating activities rising 84.50% to ₦632.3 billion from ₦342.7 billion in the prior year.
However, operating expenses also increased by 45.05% to ₦548.1 billion. The rise was largely driven by a 173.48% surge in employee expenses to ₦65.8 billion and an 86.96% increase in other operating costs to ₦103.4 billion.
A notable turnaround in foreign exchange performance further supported earnings, with the company reporting a net FX gain of ₦33.3 billion compared to a loss of ₦5.5 billion in Q1 2025.
Finance income grew significantly by 228.44% to ₦24.1 billion, while finance costs remained relatively stable at ₦143.3 billion. This led to a 38.68% reduction in net finance costs to ₦85.9 billion.
Consequently, profit before tax surged by 169.64% to ₦546.4 billion, while profit after tax rose by 165.93% to ₦355.5 billion. Earnings per share increased sharply to 16.95 kobo from 6.37 kobo recorded a year earlier.
What’s Being Said
Market analysts note that MTN Nigeria’s performance reflects strong operational efficiency and growing demand for digital services in Africa’s largest economy.
“The company’s earnings momentum is being driven by data consumption and fintech expansion, both of which remain key growth drivers in Nigeria’s telecom sector,” analysts say.
What’s Next
Investors will be closely watching whether MTN Nigeria can sustain its earnings momentum through 2026, particularly amid macroeconomic uncertainties, regulatory developments, and rising operating costs.
Continued expansion in broadband infrastructure and fintech services is expected to play a critical role in maintaining growth and shareholder value.
Arsenal host Atlético Madrid in decisive second-leg semi-final
Tie remains finely balanced after first-leg draw
Arsenal unbeaten in competition with strong defensive record
Atlético boast prolific scoring run
Main Story
Arsenal FC will host Atlético Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in a decisive UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg, with both sides vying for a place in the final of Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
The tie remains delicately poised following a closely contested first leg at the Metropolitano Stadium, where both teams showcased their attacking and defensive strengths.
Arsenal took the lead through Viktor Gyökeres from the penalty spot, before Julián Álvarez equalised—also via penalty—before adding a second goal after the break.
Atlético Madrid grew into the contest as the game progressed, underlining their attacking depth in what has become their most prolific Champions League campaign, with a club-record 35 goals, including ten from Álvarez.
Contrasting Strengths Shape Showdown
Despite Atlético’s attacking form, Arsenal enter the second leg with an impressive European record this season. The side, managed by Mikel Arteta, remains unbeaten in the competition, recording 10 wins and three draws.
Arsenal also boast the tournament’s strongest defensive record, with eight clean sheets and just six goals conceded. However, Atlético’s attacking consistency presents a significant challenge. The Spanish side has scored in 37 consecutive UEFA matches, highlighting their offensive reliability.
Arsenal may take confidence from their earlier 4-0 victory over Atlético on home soil during the league phase, while Atlético’s recent record against English opposition remains modest, with only two wins in their last 13 UEFA encounters.
What’s Being Said
Arteta emphasised the importance of home advantage ahead of the decisive fixture.
“We are in an incredible position – the semi-final of the Champions League. We have to play in front of our people – it’s in our hands,” he said.
Gyökeres echoed similar sentiments, stating: “We know when we play at home, with our fans, it’s going to be different. We just have to be at our best.”
From the Atlético camp, Antoine Griezmann highlighted the team’s improved second-half performance in the first leg.
“We played better in the second half with more intensity. That’s the approach we’ll take into the next game,” he said.
Midfielder Marcos Llorente added that the team must create more attacking opportunities to maintain their edge.
Meanwhile, manager Diego Simeone stressed the importance of fan support despite playing away from home.
“Their hearts and support will still be with us, even if they are not physically present,” he noted.
What’s Next
With both teams evenly matched in form and ambition, the second leg in north London is expected to deliver a high-intensity contest.
The outcome will likely hinge on whether Arsenal’s defensive solidity can withstand Atlético Madrid’s relentless attacking pressure, as both sides aim to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League final.
Ms. Darshana Deka, Conference Producer at IoT West Africa, stated that Nigeria must move “beyond its current reliance on solar energy” to explore a broader range of renewable options.
The power market in Nigeria is described as having “massive potential” but is not yet fully optimized to support the expansion of digital infrastructure.
Expanding energy sources is seen as critical for meeting the high power demands of data centers and other “critical infrastructure”.
There is a significant need for increased local data center capacity to ensure “data sovereignty” and keep Nigerian data within the country.
The IoT West Africa platform aims to demonstrate the convergence of IoT, data centers, power, and water as the “main accelerators of Nigeria’s digital economy”.
Main Story
Nigeria’s digital economy requires a more diversified energy strategy to reach its full potential, according to Ms. Darshana Deka of IoT West Africa.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Deka emphasized that while the country has made progress with solar energy, it must now “look at what are the other avenues” in the renewable sector to sustain its growing digital ecosystem.
She argued that the power market is currently under-utilized and that identifying alternative sustainable energy sources is essential to support the heavy electricity requirements of modern data centers.
Deka further explained that the vision behind the IoT West Africa platform is to showcase how sectors like energy, water, and IoT are “interdependent” and should “not operate in isolation”.
By bringing these ecosystems together, the initiative has highlighted the rise of critical infrastructure in Nigeria, which Deka defined as a “convergence of physical and digital systems”.
Additionally, she noted that while investments in data centers are increasing, Nigeria still needs more local capacity to maintain “data sovereignty,” asserting that the country should “control its data” rather than relying on other nations for storage and safety.
The Issues
The current heavy focus on “solar energy” may not be sufficient on its own to power a rapidly expanding digital economy.
Experts see significant “gaps in the power market” rather than the IoT market itself, which hinders full optimization of the sector.
There is a strategic concern about “giving out a country’s data to another country” due to a lack of sufficient local data center infrastructure.
Historically, the energy, data center, and IoT sectors have operated with “clear differences,” preventing the collaboration needed for “critical infrastructure”.
What’s Being Said
“Nigeria is still continuing with solar, so I think we need to move beyond solar and look at what are the other avenues.” — Ms. Darshana Deka
“Nigeria will want to control its data. You don’t want to give out a country’s data to another country to keep it safe.” — Ms. Darshana Deka
“Critical infrastructure today is a convergence of physical and digital systems, and we have seen the rise of such facilities in Nigeria.” — Ms. Darshana Deka
What’s Next
Stakeholders are expected to explore a wider variety of “renewable and sustainable energy sources” beyond traditional solar installations.
The industry will likely push for “more local data centres” to accommodate flowing investments and address data sovereignty concerns.
Collaboration is expected to increase between “industry leaders, innovators, policymakers and investors” to shape the country’s 2030 economic goals.
Discussions from platforms like IoT West Africa are anticipated to continue “materialising into action” and tangible infrastructure projects.
Bottom Line
Energy Diversification. To secure its digital future and maintain data sovereignty, Nigeria must bridge power market gaps and expand its renewable energy portfolio beyond solar to support its burgeoning data center ecosystem.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, led by Sen. Adolphus Wabara, has convened an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for Monday.
Sen. Wabara stated the decision was “necessary to prevent a leadership vacuum” after the Supreme Court nullified the 2025 national convention.
National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed dismissed claims of a vacuum, asserting that “Abdulrahman Mohammed remained the party’s legitimate national chairman”.
The BoT claims it secured “the required two-thirds support of NEC members” and has formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Mohammed challenged the authority of the BoT, stating the only “legitimate BoT leadership is that headed by Mao Ohuabunwa”.
Main Story
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing an internal leadership crisis following a Supreme Court judgment delivered on Thursday.
Sen. Adolphus Wabara, leading a faction of the Board of Trustees, announced on Sunday that the board had assumed administrative leadership to prevent “immediate leadership uncertainty”.
Wabara explained that the apex court nullified the 2025 national convention and affirmed the suspensions of officials including Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and Umar Bature.
He insisted that the board acted under the “provisions of the party constitution, as amended in 2017” and secured the necessary consent from NEC members to schedule the 103rd NEC meeting for Monday, May 4.
However, this move was immediately countered by the National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, who argued that “there has never been any vacuum or absence of leadership in the PDP”.
Mohammed maintained that the Supreme Court ruling addressed only the “legality of the Ibadan convention” and did not affect the current National Working Committee or party administration.
He further questioned Wabara’s standing, claiming his “tenure as BoT chairman had already expired” and identifying Mao Ohuabunwa as the legitimate head of the board. Mohammed concluded that the party constitution provides “no authority to the BoT to assume NWC powers”.
The Issues
The Supreme Court “nullified the 2025 national convention,” leading to conflicting claims over which leadership body currently holds power.
Sen. Wabara and Jungudo Mohammed disagree on whether a “leadership vacuum” actually exists within the party administration.
A factional split has emerged within the Board of Trustees, with both “Adolphus Wabara” and “Mao Ohuabunwa” being named as the legitimate chairman.
There is a constitutional dispute regarding whether the BoT has the authority to “assume NWC powers” or convene NEC meetings without the NWC’s involvement.
The legal status of the current National Working Committee is in question following the “nullification of the convention” that produced it.
What’s Being Said
“The decision became necessary to prevent a leadership vacuum following recent developments within the party.” — Sen. Adolphus Wabara
“INEC has been duly notified of the 103rd NEC meeting scheduled for Monday, May 4.” — Sen. Adolphus Wabara
“There has never been any vacuum or absence of leadership in the PDP.” — Jungudo Mohammed
“The only legitimate BoT leadership is that headed by Mao Ohuabunwa.” — Jungudo Mohammed
What’s Next
The emergency 103rd NEC meeting is scheduled to be held on “Monday, May 4”.
Members are urged to approach the upcoming session with a commitment to “unity, reconciliation, and rebuilding the party”.
The party must resolve the conflicting claims regarding the “legitimate BoT leadership” between the Wabara and Ohuabunwa factions.
INEC’s acknowledgment of the “formal notification” will likely determine the legal standing of the scheduled NEC meeting.
Bottom Line
Leadership Tussle. The PDP has fractured into opposing factions as the Board of Trustees attempts to seize administrative control following a Supreme Court ruling that nullified the party’s recent national convention.
The Labour Party (LP) released its 2026 primary election timetable and activity schedule in Abuja on Monday.
Nomination forms for all elective offices will be available for purchase starting May 6 and ending May 16.
Specific concessions have been approved for female aspirants, people living with disabilities, and youths aged 25 to 30.
The presidential nomination package is set at a total of ₦50,000,000, while governorship aspirants are to pay ₦25,000,000.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia has been granted his nomination form free of charge by the party’s National Working Committee.
Main Story
The Labour Party (LP) has officially set the stage for the 2027 general elections by releasing its primary election timetable and schedule of activities for 2026.
National Publicity Secretary Ken Asogwa announced that the party’s roadmap aligns with the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act of 2026, and the revised schedule provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The process begins with the sale of nomination forms from May 6 to May 16, followed by a brief window for the submission of completed forms on May 17 and May 18.
Screening for various elective offices will be staggered, with House of Assembly and Governorship aspirants scheduled for May 20, and National Assembly and Presidential aspirants for May 22.
The party expects to publish the results of these screenings by May 23, with a window for appeals and petitions open until May 25.
Following the publication of the final list of cleared aspirants on May 26, the party will conduct primaries for state-level positions on May 27 and federal-level positions, including the presidency, on May 29.
In a move aimed at promoting its motto of “Equal Opportunity and Social Justice,” the LP has introduced significant financial concessions for specific groups.
Female aspirants, people living with disabilities, and youths between the ages of 25 and 30 are only required to pay for the expression of interest forms, exempting them from the cost of nomination forms for all positions.
Additionally, the party is urging prospective aspirants to complete their membership e-registration by midnight on May 4 to ensure their inclusion in the membership register submitted to INEC.
The Fees
Presidential: ₦10,000,000 for expression of interest and ₦40,000,000 for nomination, totaling ₦50,000,000.
Governorship: ₦5,000,000 for expression of interest and ₦20,000,000 for nomination, totaling ₦25,000,000.
Senatorial: ₦2,500,000 for expression of interest and ₦7,500,000 for nomination, totaling ₦10,000,000.
House of Representatives: ₦1,500,000 for expression of interest and ₦3,500,000 for nomination, totaling ₦5,000,000.
House of Assembly: ₦1,000,000 for expression of interest and ₦2,000,000 for nomination, totaling ₦3,000,000.
The Issues
High nomination fees may still pose a barrier to aspirants who do not qualify for the specific concessions provided.
The short timeframe for membership e-registration, ending May 4, requires immediate action from prospective members.
Compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 remains a critical priority to ensure the legality of the party’s membership register and primary outcomes.
Balancing internal party discipline with inclusive policies like the “free form” granted to the Abia Governor remains a point of observation for political analysts.
What’s Being Said
“The timetable was released in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.” — Ken Asogwa
“Female aspirants, people living with disabilities and youths aged 25 to 30 would only be required to pay for the expression of interest forms for all positions.” — Ken Asogwa
“Screening of aspirants for House of Assembly and Governorship election will be on May 20 while that of the National Assembly and the Presidential election will be on May 22.” — Ken Asogwa
What’s Next
The membership e-registration window closes at midnight on May 4.
Sale of nomination forms will commence across the country on May 6.
The party will begin the screening of aspirants for state-level positions on May 20.
Presidential and National Assembly primaries are scheduled to take place on May 29.
Bottom Line
Political Inclusion. By offering significant financial concessions to women, youths, and people with disabilities, the Labour Party is attempting to lower the barrier to entry for the 2027 elections while adhering to new electoral legal frameworks.
The NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) and Seplat Energy Joint Venture have distributed N10.5 million in cash and scholarships to schools in Imo State.
Mountain Crest High School emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 PEARLs quiz, securing a N5 million project-based grant.
The competition included a Steam Innovation Project segment, where PAC College took the top prize of N500,000 for problem-solving ingenuity.
Over 200 secondary schools participated in this year’s edition, aimed at promoting academic excellence and improving educational quality.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma commended the partnership for its commitment to intellectual growth and youth empowerment.
Main Story
The 2026 edition of the Promoting Exceptional and Responsible Leaders (PEARLs) quiz and Steam competition concluded on Saturday in Owerri with a significant investment in the future of Imo State’s students.
The joint venture between Seplat Energy and NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) rewarded academic brilliance and innovative thinking with a total prize pool of N10.5 million.
According to Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Chioma Afe, the initiative is a “flagship education quiz programme designed to encourage discipline, rigour, academic excellence, sharpness, and improve the minds of secondary school students”.
Mountain Crest High School claimed the top spot in the quiz category, earning a N5 million grant for school development, while its representing students each received N100,000 in scholarship funds.
In the Steam Innovation category, PAC College was recognized as the overall winner for presenting projects judged on their “relevance to real-life problems, value addition, technical depth, sustainability and quality of presentation”.
Representatives from NUIMS noted that the event serves as a testament to the commitment of both organizations to ensure that “no brilliance is overlooked and no talent is left behind,” encouraging students to value the peer connections and knowledge gained as much as the material rewards.
The Prize Breakdown
Mountain Crest High School received a N5 million project-based grant and a trophy; three students received N100,000 each in scholarship grants.
Owerri City Secondary School received a N3 million grant and a trophy; three students received N75,000 each in support grants.
Eziachi Secondary School, Orlu, received a N1 million grant; three students received N50,000 each in support grants.
PAC College received a N500,000 grant to support the development and scale-up of their innovative project.
St Theresa College received N250,000, and Urban College received N100,000.
Teachers from the top four schools were each awarded a laptop in recognition of their efforts and participation.
The Issues
The competition highlights the ongoing need for “project-based grants” to support the physical and academic development of secondary schools in operating areas.
Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and “real-life problems” remains a core focus of the Steam Innovation segment.
Ensuring “technical depth and sustainability” in student-led projects is critical for scaling innovative solutions at the community level.
Maintaining “rigour and discipline” in the education sector requires sustained partnership between private energy firms and government regulators.
What’s Being Said
“The PEARLs Quiz is our flagship education quiz programme designed to encourage discipline, rigour, academic excellence, sharpness, and improve the minds of secondary school students.” — Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs, Seplat Energy
“Seplat Energy and our JV partner, NNPC Limited, remain steadfast in our resolve to power lives, empower minds, and ensure that no brilliance is overlooked.” — Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs, Seplat Energy
“The friendships forged and knowledge gained would serve them well in future endeavours.” — Loveday Minanengiyeofori, Lead Community Relations, NUIMS
What’s Next
Mountain Crest High School and other winners will begin implementing “project-based” developments with their grant funds.
The Steam Innovation winners will move toward “scale-up” phases for their problem-solving projects supported by their respective grants.
NUIMS and Seplat Energy are expected to continue their annual engagement to expand the reach of the PEARLs programme in other operating states.
The Imo State Government has pledged “continued support” for such initiatives to further encourage local innovation and educational quality.
Bottom Line
Empowering Minds. Through a N10.5 million investment in prizes and grants, the Seplat-NNPC Joint Venture is reinforcing academic excellence and providing the capital necessary for schools to scale student-led innovations.
Motorists and residents in the Federal Capital Territory have expressed deep concern over recent petrol price increases to between N1,364 and N1,444 per liter.
The price adjustment has led to a sharp rise in transportation fares, leaving many commuters, including civil servants, stranded at bus stops.
Investigations indicate that petrol prices have risen multiple times in 2026, up from approximately N900 per liter recorded in February.
Residents report that the high cost of fuel has forced many private car owners to park their vehicles or convert them into commercial use (“kabu kabu”) to survive.
Main Story
The Federal Capital Territory is currently grappling with a significant economic strain following the latest hike in the pump price of petrol. Reports from the News Agency of Nigeria indicated that on Wednesday, major and independent marketers adjusted their prices, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) selling at N1,364 per liter while other outlets reached as high as N1,444.
This development has triggered a domino effect across the capital, as commercial drivers increased fares to offset their rising overheads, leaving many civil servants and low-income earners unable to afford daily commutes.
The impact of the increase extends beyond transportation, as traders and business owners at markets like Garki and Wuse reported that the cost of moving goods has made essential food items increasingly unaffordable.
Residents described a “too much to bear” situation, with some workers opting to stay home because their transport costs exceeded their daily earnings.
While some drivers have transitioned to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), commuters complained that these operators often charge the same high rates as petrol-powered vehicles, effectively pocketing the cost difference rather than passing savings to the public.
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) attributed these fluctuations to the deregulation of the market, where prices are now determined by the forces of demand and supply, alongside international crude oil prices and foreign exchange rates.
Despite this explanation, the prevailing sentiment among residents is one of desperation, with many calling for a return to the subsidy regime or a more robust roadmap to stabilize the sector and protect vulnerable households from continuous financial shocks.
The Issues
Rising fuel prices are directly inflating the cost of feeding, housing, and education for residents already struggling with stagnant wages.
A reduction in the number of operating commercial vehicles has left commuters stranded, while those remaining have doubled or tripled their fares.
High conversion costs and “unfair” pricing by CNG-powered vehicle operators prevent the public from feeling the benefits of alternative energy.
Small-scale traders, particularly those selling perishable goods like vegetables, face low patronage and potential bankruptcy due to supply price hikes.
The liberalization of the petroleum sector has exposed consumers to frequent “shocks” tied to global oil price shifts and the rising value of the dollar.
What’s Being Said
“At times, I do not go to work because there is no money for transportation, and feeding is even a bigger problem.” — Mrs. Zainab Idris, Civil Servant
“We know it is not the government’s making but it needs to work on the roadmap to resolve the issue and avoid further problems.” — Mr. Abdullahi Baba, Civil Servant
What’s Next
There are growing calls for the government to make petrol-to-CNG conversion kits affordable to the general public to “crash” transport fares.
Authorities may need to investigate reports of CNG drivers taking advantage of the situation by charging petrol-level fares.
Logistics operators are pushing for the promotion of electric vehicles and the introduction of a more efficient affordable public transit system.
Increased pressure from labor unions and civil society may force a re-evaluation of the “lasting policy” regarding market deregulation and its social impact.
Bottom Line
Financial Shock. The intersection of market deregulation and global energy volatility has pushed the cost of living in the FCT to a tipping point, necessitating a strategic shift toward alternative fuels and social safety nets for the working class.
Energy expert Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu has called on the newly appointed Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, to provide “practical and sustainable solutions” to Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
The appointment of Mr. Tegbe by President Bola Tinubu on May 1 comes during a “critical time” for the nation’s energy sector.
Immediate priorities identified for the minister include halting persistent grid collapses and achieving at least “six months without a total system collapse”.
The expert advocated for the rollout of at least “two million meters” via private sector-driven initiatives to eliminate estimated billing.
Recommendations for sector liquidity include the “securitisation of legacy debts” estimated at over N6 trillion and a naira-based payment system for gas-to-power transactions.
Main Story
Energy expert Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu has issued a direct challenge to the newly appointed Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, to move beyond promises and deliver measurable outcomes for the Nigerian power sector.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, Akinrolabu emphasized that the minister’s performance would be a decisive factor in Nigeria’s broader economic growth.
He noted that the public expects “decisive action to stabilise the system and restore public confidence,” particularly regarding grid stability and the transparency of the electricity market.
Akinrolabu argued that “trust begins with numbers, not promises,” and urged the minister to provide “cash clarity” by disclosing the sector’s debt profile and establishing a credible repayment framework.
He identified liquidity as the sector’s “lifeblood,” warning that the inability of generation companies to procure gas due to unpaid debts is a primary driver of reduced power generation.
To resolve this, he proposed stricter remittance enforcement for distribution companies and the adoption of a naira-based payment system for gas transactions to mitigate foreign exchange risks.
Addressing technical failures, the expert highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades. He identified weak transmission systems and the lack of a functional “Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system” as major causes of instability.
Akinrolabu also pointed out that Nigeria’s spinning reserve is currently “significantly below global standards,” leaving the grid highly vulnerable to collapse. He concluded by advocating for a “balanced framework” for electricity tariffs, insisting on the principle of “no service, no premium tariff” to ensure consumers only pay for value received.
The Issues
Persistent system collapses are driven by “weak transmission systems” and “inadequate protection mechanisms”.
Unpaid generation companies are currently “unable to procure gas,” leading to a cycle of reduced power and increased grid failure risks.
A lack of transparency in billing continues to erode consumer trust, necessitating an accelerated “rollout of at least two million meters”.
Weak enforcement has led to inefficiencies across the value chain, specifically regarding “remittance enforcement for distribution companies”.
The current system for gas-to-power transactions is exposed to foreign exchange fluctuations, which the expert suggests mitigating through “naira-based payment”.
What’s Being Said
“Nigerians expect at least six months without a total system collapse. Anything less will not inspire confidence.” — Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu
“Trust begins with numbers, not promises.” — Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu
“No service, no premium tariff.” — Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu
What’s Next
The minister is expected to prioritize the completion of the SCADA system to enable “real-time grid monitoring”.
Steps may be taken toward the “securitisation of legacy debts” estimated at over N6 trillion to improve market liquidity.
Plans are anticipated for a “private sector-driven initiative” to deploy millions of meters to consumers.
The administration is urged to expand “lifeline tariffs” and enforce service-based bands to protect low-income consumers.
Increased investment in “embedded generation” and private sector participation in transmission maintenance are recommended for the coming months.
Bottom Line
Power Performance. The success of the new Minister of Power will be measured by his ability to secure the national grid and restore financial liquidity to a sector currently burdened by trillions in legacy debt and technical inefficiencies.
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