1. Budget Office Says No Funds Were Released to Controversial PFIPC

The Budget Office of the Federation has clarified that no money was released to the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), despite the agency receiving a ₦1.3 billion allocation in the 2026 Appropriation Act. Officials said strict financial controls ensured that no payroll, overhead or capital expenditure was processed, adding that the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General were directed to block every transaction linked to the agency.

The clarification comes as lawmakers continue investigating how the agency found its way into the national budget. According to the Budget Office, the current administration is cooperating fully with ongoing probes, while analysts say the controversy could lead to tougher budget oversight and stronger accountability measures across government institutions.

2. Atiku Fires Back at Obasanjo Over Alleged ₦5 Million Bribery Claim

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has rejected allegations by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that he gave the late Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Umar Na’Abba, ₦5 million to support an impeachment plot before the 2003 elections. Atiku described the accusation as false, politically motivated and unfair to the memory of the late lawmaker.

In a statement released through his media aide, Atiku argued that the claim cannot be verified since Na’Abba is no longer alive to respond. He also accused Obasanjo of attempting to influence the political conversation ahead of the 2027 elections, saying the former president should openly declare his preferred candidate instead of revisiting old political disagreements.

3. Kano Bans ‘After-Party’ and ‘Hot Challenge’ at Weddings

The Kano State Censorship Board has banned the organisation of “after-party” events and “hot challenge” activities at weddings and other social gatherings across the state. Executive Secretary Abba El-Mustapha said the practices contradict Kano’s cultural, religious and moral values.

The board directed event centres, MCs, DJs and event planners to comply with the new directive or face legal consequences. The decision has generated discussions among residents and stakeholders, with supporters describing it as a move to preserve the state’s cultural identity, while others continue to debate its impact on the entertainment industry.

4. Team Nigeria Wins Multiple Gold Medals at Commonwealth Games

Team Nigeria made an outstanding start to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, winning three gold medals and three silver medals in para-powerlifting while setting new world and Games records. Folashade Oluwafemiayo, Esther Nworgu and Riluwan Idris were among the athletes who delivered impressive performances for the country.

The National Sports Commission rewarded the medal winners with cash incentives shortly after their victories. The early success has placed Nigeria among the leading countries on the medal table and raised expectations for more medals in athletics, boxing and other events as the Games continue.

5. Dangote Refinery Resumes Petrol Sales in Naira

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has resumed the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) in naira after temporarily pricing the product in dollars. The refinery fixed its new ex-depot price at ₦1,215 per litre, compared with the previous ₦1,075.

Industry players say the return to naira transactions is expected to improve supply stability, although the higher price could lead to fresh increases at filling stations nationwide. Analysts believe continued collaboration between the refinery and the Federal Government will be important in managing fuel prices and easing pressure on consumers.

6. Alex Otti Rejects Claims of Southeast Endorsement for Tinubu

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has dismissed claims that governors from the Southeast have endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in 2027. Otti said Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma spoke in his personal capacity and not on behalf of the entire region.

The governor insisted that his priority remains delivering good governance in Abia State rather than engaging in early presidential politics. Political observers say the statement reflects growing political realignments ahead of the next general elections and could influence alliances in the Southeast.

7. INEC Urges Nigerians to Complete Voter Registration

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged eligible Nigerians to complete their Continuous Voter Registration before the exercise closes on Sunday. The commission said the registration exercise remains crucial to preparations for the 2027 general elections.

INEC assured Nigerians that improvements have been made to address technical challenges experienced during previous elections. Once the registration exercise ends, attention will shift to the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards, while political parties continue to mobilise supporters across the country.

8. BUA Cement Posts 79 Per Cent Profit Growth

BUA Cement has announced a 79 per cent increase in profit for the first half of 2026, reporting earnings of ₦384.4 billion. The company attributed the strong performance to improved operations and sustained demand for its products.

The result has been welcomed by investors as another sign of resilience within Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Market analysts, however, note that foreign exchange fluctuations and rising energy costs remain major challenges that companies will continue to navigate.

9. Military Airstrikes Hit ISWAP Targets in Borno

Nigerian troops have carried out fresh airstrikes against suspected ISWAP fighters in Borno State, killing several terrorists during ongoing military operations. The offensive forms part of renewed efforts to weaken insurgent activities in the North-East.

Security experts say sustained intelligence gathering and stronger community cooperation will be necessary to build on recent successes. The operation also comes as the Federal Government continues implementing new security measures aimed at improving military effectiveness across the country.

10. Enugu Air Plane Skids Off Runway, Passengers Escape Unhurt

An Enugu Air aircraft veered off the runway while landing at Benin Airport, but all passengers and crew members escaped without injuries. Governor Peter Mbah assured the public that the airline remains committed to the highest safety standards.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has begun an investigation into the incident to determine its cause. Aviation stakeholders say the outcome of the probe will help strengthen safety procedures and maintain confidence in Nigeria’s growing domestic aviation industry.