1. Peter Obi Urges Tinubu to Step Aside, Says Nigeria Needs Stronger Leadership

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step aside ahead of the 2027 general election, saying the President appears tired and no longer has the capacity to tackle Nigeria’s worsening economic and security challenges. Speaking during a television interview, Obi argued that the country needs energetic and focused leadership to address the hardship facing millions of Nigerians.

Obi said he admired Tinubu’s performance during his time as governor of Lagos State but insisted that the current administration has struggled to meet the expectations of Nigerians. He pointed to rising poverty, hunger, insecurity and the increasing rate of kidnappings across the country, citing World Bank projections and recent security incidents as signs that urgent action is needed. His comments have further intensified political conversations ahead of the 2027 elections, drawing mixed reactions from supporters and critics, while many expect the Presidency to respond in the coming days.

2. Bandits Abduct Kebbi High Court Judge During Midnight Attack on Residence

Suspected bandits have kidnapped Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court after attacking his residence in Bunza Local Government Area in the early hours of Saturday. The gunmen reportedly stormed the house shortly after the judge returned from Sokoto, fired several gunshots to scare residents, and took him away without harming members of his family.

Confirming the incident, the Kebbi State Police Command said tactical and intelligence teams have been deployed to rescue the judge and track down the kidnappers. Security operatives are currently combing nearby forests and suspected hideouts as part of the rescue operation. The abduction has raised fresh concerns over the safety of judicial officers and the growing insecurity in the North-West, with residents hoping for the judge’s safe return.

3. BBNaija Season 11 Begins as 24 Housemates Battle for Record ₦160 Million Prize

Big Brother Naija Season 11 officially kicked off on Sunday night with 24 housemates entering the newly redesigned house to compete for a record grand prize worth ₦160 million, made up of ₦100 million cash and an SUV. Hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, this year’s edition carries the theme “Everything Is For The Taking (Show Ya Sef)” and will run for 72 days.

Contestants from different backgrounds promised to bring entertainment, competition and strategy as the show gets underway. MultiChoice described the season as the biggest in the programme’s history, while fans have already begun discussing potential favourites and early alliances across social media. Live broadcasts continue as viewers eagerly await the first eviction and the twists expected throughout the season.

4. Court Orders Nigerian Army to Reinstate 70 Pardoned Soldiers, Pay Outstanding Salaries

The National Industrial Court in Lagos has ordered the Nigerian Army to immediately reinstate 70 soldiers who were granted presidential pardon by former President Muhammadu Buhari. The court also directed the Army to pay all their salaries and allowances from July 2022.

Justice S.A. Yelwa ruled that the presidential pardon erased the soldiers’ convictions and restored all their constitutional rights and privileges. Although claims covering earlier years were dismissed, the judgment affirmed that the affected soldiers are entitled to return to service with full benefits. The ruling is expected to influence military welfare discussions and how future presidential pardons are implemented within the armed forces.

5. Super Falcons Arrive in Morocco for WAFCON 2026 Title Defence

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have arrived in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they will be chasing a record-extending 11th continental title. The tournament runs from July 26 to August 16, with Nigeria drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt.

Coach Justine Madugu’s squad includes experienced stars such as Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who completed preparations with impressive warm-up victories before travelling. Success at the tournament would also strengthen Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Expectations remain high among fans as the Super Falcons prepare to begin their campaign.

6. Lassa Fever Claims 224 Lives as Confirmed Cases Rise Across 23 States

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says the country has recorded 936 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 224 deaths so far in 2026, with infections spread across 23 states and 113 local government areas.

Health authorities said Ondo, Edo, Bauchi and several other states continue to account for most of the confirmed infections. The NCDC has activated emergency response measures while urging Nigerians to improve sanitation, prevent rodent infestations and seek medical treatment early whenever symptoms appear. Public health experts say sustained awareness campaigns remain critical as the outbreak continues.

7. Tinubu Appoints Wasiu Olanrewaju-Smart as SSA on National Assembly Matters

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Wasiu Olanrewaju-Smart as Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives). The appointment is expected to strengthen communication and coordination between the Presidency and the House of Representatives.

The development forms part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to improve executive-legislative relations as key reforms and policy proposals move through the National Assembly. Political observers believe the new appointment will support smoother legislative engagement as preparations gradually begin ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

8. Military Records Fresh Gains Against Terrorists and Bandits Nationwide

The Defence Headquarters says Nigerian troops have continued nationwide offensives against terrorists and bandits, recording fresh successes through arrests, surrenders and the recovery of weapons across different theatres of operation.

Military authorities disclosed that several ISWAP logistics and finance operatives surrendered in Borno State, while other operations led to the arrest of criminal suspects in the North-East and North-West. The latest gains come as security agencies intensify operations despite ongoing challenges, including the recent kidnapping of a High Court judge in Kebbi State. Defence officials say operations will continue to sustain pressure on criminal groups.

9. Nigeria Reaffirms Partnership with IMF to Support Economic Reforms

The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as the country continues implementing economic and fiscal reforms aimed at restoring stability.

Government officials said collaboration with the IMF remains important for improving investor confidence, managing public debt and supporting long-term economic growth. The renewed commitment comes amid ongoing reforms targeting inflation, foreign exchange stability and poverty reduction, with observers expecting further policy engagements between both parties.

10. FG Denies Plans to Increase Electricity Tariffs, Retains Subsidies for Consumers

The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that electricity tariffs will be increased, assuring Nigerians that subsidies for the majority of electricity consumers remain in place.

Authorities explained that while reforms in the power sector will continue, there are no immediate plans to raise tariffs for households currently benefiting from government support. The clarification follows widespread public concern over rising living costs, with officials saying efforts remain focused on improving electricity supply while protecting consumers from additional financial pressure.