1. Tinubu Signs New NIMC Act into Law
President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, replacing the 2007 legislation with a new legal framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital identity system. The law is expected to improve identity verification, cybersecurity, public service delivery and national security.
The Federal Government said the upgraded identity system is already supporting security operations. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed that seven suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders were recently identified through the NIMC database and arrested upon returning from Hajj. The government says implementation guidelines will now be rolled out to deepen integration across public institutions.
2. Death Toll Reaches Nine in Lagos Building Collapse
The death toll from the collapse of a three-storey building in the Alakija area of Satellite Town, Lagos, has risen to nine after emergency officials concluded rescue operations. Twenty-seven people were rescued alive and are receiving medical attention.
The tragedy has once again raised questions about compliance with building regulations in Lagos. Authorities have begun investigations into the cause of the collapse, while residents and safety experts continue to call for stricter enforcement against substandard construction across the state.
3. Seven Suspected Terror Commanders Arrested After Hajj
Security agencies have arrested seven suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina after they returned from the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Government officials said the suspects were identified through Nigeria’s integrated digital identity platform before being handed over for further investigation. The arrests are being viewed as a major intelligence breakthrough in the country’s ongoing fight against terrorism.
4. Troops Rescue 53 Hostages in Borno Operation
Nigerian troops have rescued 53 kidnapped victims during an operation against terrorist groups in Borno State. Security forces also recovered eight vehicles believed to have been used by the insurgents.
Military authorities say the operation forms part of sustained offensives aimed at weakening terrorist networks across the North-East. The latest rescue has brought relief to affected communities as security operations continue across the region.
5. Oyo Moves to End Teachers’ Strike with N8.7bn Education Package
The Oyo State Government has appealed to striking teachers to return to classrooms after approving N8.7 billion for the procurement of learning materials and other educational improvements.
The strike has disrupted academic activities across public schools, leaving thousands of students out of class. The government says negotiations with labour leaders are continuing, expressing optimism that the funding commitment will help resolve the dispute.
6. Naira Records Slight Loss at Official Foreign Exchange Market
The naira weakened marginally against the dollar in the official foreign exchange market as traders continued to monitor liquidity and demand conditions.
Financial analysts say the movement reflects ongoing market adjustments under Nigeria’s economic reforms. They note that stronger foreign exchange inflows from oil exports and remittances will remain critical to improving currency stability and easing inflationary pressure.
7. British-Nigerian Creatives Receive Oscars Academy Invitation
Several British-Nigerian filmmakers and creatives have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as part of its 2026 membership class.
The recognition highlights the growing influence of Nigerian talent in global filmmaking and follows increased international attention on African stories. Industry stakeholders believe the invitations could create more opportunities for collaboration and investment in Nigeria’s creative sector.
8. Wizkid Unveils Title of Seventh Studio Album
Afrobeats star Wizkid has revealed the title of his forthcoming seventh studio album, generating excitement among fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Although a release date has not yet been announced, the announcement has dominated entertainment conversations. Music industry observers expect the project to build on the global success of his previous albums and further strengthen the international reach of Afrobeats.
9. World Cup Continues to Capture Nigerian Football Fans
The FIFA World Cup continued with Belgium’s emphatic 5-1 victory over New Zealand as the race for the knockout stage gathered momentum.
Despite the Super Eagles’ absence from the tournament, many Nigerians remain actively engaged with the competition, particularly through the performances of African teams and players of Nigerian heritage. The tournament has also revived discussions about the future of Nigerian football.
10. Owerri Explosion Kills Two Suspected Scrap Metal Scavengers
Two suspected scrap metal scavengers were killed after an explosion inside a drainage channel along Old Nekede Road in Owerri, Imo State.
Police have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blast, while forensic experts continue to examine the scene. The incident has raised fresh concerns about public safety and the dangers associated with illegal scavenging activities.

