1. Tinubu Approves Expansion of Nigerian Army, Orders Recruitment of 28,000 Personnel
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and authorised the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen the country’s security architecture. New divisional headquarters will be established in strategic locations, including Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, as part of efforts to improve military operations across the country.
The expansion is expected to boost command structures, improve troop deployment and strengthen responses to terrorism, banditry and other security threats. Security experts say the move complements ongoing investments in military equipment and personnel welfare, although they stress that sustained funding and better coordination with other security agencies will be crucial to achieving lasting results.
2. Court Sentences Three to Life Imprisonment Over Oriire School Abduction
A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Abdulrazak Umar, Yunusa Musa and Shamsu Adamu Sani to life imprisonment for their roles in the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The convicts pleaded guilty to terrorism-related offences, including belonging to a proscribed group and concealing information linked to the attack.
The court’s decision follows the successful rescue of all the victims after weeks in captivity without any ransom being paid. The judgment has been welcomed as a strong warning to criminal groups targeting schools, while security stakeholders continue to call for stronger protection of educational institutions across the country.
3. Enugu Air Plane Skids Off Runway at Benin Airport
An Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft skidded off the runway while landing at Benin Airport during heavy rainfall on July 23. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, with no injuries or fatalities recorded.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has opened an investigation into the incident, while aviation authorities temporarily shut the runway, causing flight disruptions. The development has renewed discussions about weather-related aviation safety and the need for continuous improvements in airport infrastructure across Nigeria.
4. Dangote Refinery Raises $2.5 Billion for Major Expansion
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has secured $2.5 billion through a private equity fundraising exercise to expand its Lagos facility from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels daily. The investment, described as one of Africa’s biggest private equity deals, attracted both international and African investors.
The expansion is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s local refining capacity, reduce dependence on imported fuel and create more employment opportunities. Industry analysts also believe it could improve energy security and position the refinery for a future public listing.
5. Federal Government Moves to Clear Power Sector Debts
The Federal Government has released about ₦333 billion to electricity generation companies as part of efforts to settle long-standing debts in the power sector. Authorities also plan to issue a fresh ₦729 billion bond to clear outstanding obligations owed to gas suppliers and other stakeholders.
Officials say the intervention is aimed at restoring confidence in the electricity industry, improving liquidity and encouraging greater investment. Energy experts believe consistent reforms, alongside infrastructure upgrades, will be necessary to achieve reliable power supply across the country.
6. Veteran Actress Ngozi Nwosu Appeals for ₦30 Million for Surgeries
Popular Nollywood actress Ngozi Nwosu has appealed to Nigerians for financial support to undergo three urgent surgeries, saying she requires about ₦30 million for treatment. The actress made the emotional appeal while receiving medical care, explaining that her health condition has become critical.
Her appeal has attracted sympathy from colleagues, fans and members of the public, with many calling for support to help her recover. The situation has also reignited conversations about healthcare access and welfare support for veteran entertainers in Nigeria.
7. Senate Summons NNPCL, CBN Over Revenue Leakages
The Senate has begun fresh moves against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and about 40 government agencies over alleged failure to remit revenues into government coffers. Lawmakers expressed concern that the alleged non-remittances are worsening Nigeria’s revenue challenges.
The development reflects renewed efforts by the National Assembly to strengthen oversight of public finances. Analysts say the outcome of the investigation could influence fiscal transparency, budget implementation and future reforms in government revenue management.
8. Bandits Kill More Than 20 People in Northwest Attack
More than 20 people have reportedly been killed after armed bandits attacked a community in northwest Nigeria. Residents said the attackers invaded the area, leaving several families displaced as security concerns continue to grow across the region.
The latest attack adds to the ongoing wave of violence affecting many communities in the North-West. While security forces have intensified operations against armed groups, residents continue to call for stronger protection and quicker responses to attacks.
9. National Assembly Updates Inland Waterways Law
The National Assembly has approved amendments to Nigeria’s Inland Waterways law to bring it in line with a recent Supreme Court judgment on the powers of federal and state governments. The changes are expected to improve regulation of waterways and provide greater legal clarity.
Lawmakers believe the updated law will strengthen transportation, improve safety on inland waterways and support commercial activities in riverine communities. Stakeholders also expect the reforms to encourage investment and reduce disputes over jurisdiction.
10. Germany Pledges Greater Security, Economic Support for Nigeria
Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in tackling security challenges while seeking stronger economic cooperation between both countries. The discussions focused on counter-terrorism, capacity building for security agencies and increased investments in strategic sectors.
The renewed partnership reflects growing international support for Nigeria’s security and economic reforms. Observers believe the engagement could open new opportunities in technology, trade and infrastructure development while strengthening bilateral relations.
