1. President Tinubu Launches Power Force to Train 5,000 Youths for Smart Meter Rollout

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched the Power Force Initiative, a national programme that will train 5,000 young Nigerians to support the rollout of smart electricity meters across the country. Announced at the State House in Abuja, the initiative is aimed at tackling Nigeria’s persistent metering gap, which has left millions of electricity consumers on estimated billing. The programme forms part of the administration’s broader power sector reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda and is expected to improve electricity service delivery while creating employment opportunities for young people.

Government officials said the initiative will complement the implementation of the Electricity Act, which gives states greater responsibilities in electricity generation, transmission and distribution. The trained youths are expected to support the deployment of millions of smart meters nationwide, helping to improve revenue collection for distribution companies and reduce disputes over estimated billing. While many Nigerians have welcomed the programme for its job creation potential, stakeholders say transparent implementation and sustained investment will be crucial to achieving the desired impact and avoiding the challenges that affected previous power sector reforms.

2. Dangote Refinery Slashes Petrol Price by Another N50

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced another N50 per litre reduction in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), offering fresh relief to marketers and consumers amid changing global oil prices and domestic supply dynamics. The new price adjustment, which takes immediate effect, is the latest move by Africa’s largest single-train refinery as it strengthens its presence in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.

The reduction comes as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and fuel importers continue supplying the local market, with pump prices still above N1,000 per litre in some parts of the country. Industry analysts say the latest cut could intensify competition, encourage further reductions at filling stations and help ease inflationary pressure on transportation and goods. Marketers and consumers are now watching closely to see whether rival suppliers will adjust their prices, while stakeholders continue to push for stronger local refining capacity to reduce dependence on imported fuel.

3. Military Air Strikes Kill Scores of Terrorists in Niger State

The Nigerian military says its air component has carried out successful strikes on identified terrorist camps and logistics bases in parts of Niger State, killing scores of suspected terrorists during ongoing operations against banditry and insurgency in the North Central region. The strikes were launched after intelligence reports identified the locations being used by the armed groups.

The latest operation adds to recent offensives aimed at weakening terrorist networks operating across several states. Residents in affected communities have welcomed the military action, although security experts say sustained operations will be needed to prevent the groups from regrouping. Military authorities are expected to continue ground operations and intelligence-led missions to consolidate the gains and improve security in the region.

4. 271 More Evacuated Nigerians Return from South Africa

Another batch of 271 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa is expected to arrive in the country as the Federal Government continues its voluntary repatriation exercise following renewed xenophobic tensions. Nigerian diplomatic officials have also begun documenting businesses and properties abandoned by affected citizens as part of plans to seek compensation.

The latest evacuation comes amid continued anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa that have forced hundreds of Nigerians to return home. Nigeria’s High Commissioner said efforts are ongoing to protect citizens and pursue diplomatic solutions with the South African government. Returnees are expected to receive reintegration support while discussions continue on strengthening bilateral mechanisms to better safeguard Nigerians living abroad.

5. Obasanjo Warns Nigeria Against Another Civil War

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has cautioned that Nigeria must do everything possible to prevent another civil war, warning that rising tensions, divisive rhetoric and unresolved grievances should not be ignored. He made the remarks during a recent public engagement where he called for greater national unity and responsible leadership.

His comments have generated widespread discussion across political and civic circles, with many agreeing on the need for dialogue and inclusive governance to address growing social and political challenges. The intervention comes at a time of heightened debate over national security, governance and preparations for future elections, with stakeholders urging leaders at all levels to prioritise peace and national cohesion.

6. BOI Signs $170 Million iDICE Fund Management Deal

The Bank of Industry has signed a $170 million fund management agreement under the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme to support businesses in Nigeria’s technology and creative sectors. The initiative is designed to provide financing and technical support for innovation-driven enterprises, particularly those led by young entrepreneurs.

The programme forms part of broader efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy beyond oil by encouraging digital innovation, job creation and entrepreneurship. Stakeholders across the technology and creative industries have welcomed the development, saying the funding could strengthen startups, improve competitiveness and expand export opportunities. Implementation is expected to include partnerships focused on capacity building and long-term business growth.

7. LASEMA Yet to Decide on Relief for Recent Lagos Flood Victims

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) says it has yet to conclude its assessment of the recent flooding that affected several communities across the state and has therefore not finalised relief packages for victims. Officials said joint evaluations with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are ongoing following days of heavy rainfall that left homes submerged, disrupted businesses and caused severe traffic congestion in parts of Lagos.

Communities including Gbagada, Mushin and Lagos Island were among the worst affected, with many residents blaming blocked drainage systems and ageing infrastructure for the recurring floods. LASEMA said the assessment will guide targeted intervention for affected families, while the Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to ongoing drainage projects and flood control measures. Authorities also indicated that public sensitisation and enforcement against structures obstructing waterways will be intensified as the rainy season continues.

8. Police File Eight-Count Charge Against Convener of Fictitious Presidential Promotion Council

The Nigeria Police Force has filed an eight-count criminal charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja against Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, the convener of a purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), over allegations including forgery, impersonation and related offences. The Presidency has distanced itself from the organisation, maintaining that no such government council exists.

Investigators allege that Adeyemi falsely presented himself as the council’s Director-General, forged appointment documents and held engagements with diplomats and public officials while claiming to operate from the Federal Secretariat. The case has attracted public attention because of the alleged impersonation of government authority, with the Presidency backing ongoing investigations. The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks and could serve as a warning against individuals using fake government identities to defraud the public.

9. WAEC Confirms No Leakage in 2026 WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says there has been no examination leakage in the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination despite reports of technical and logistical challenges in some centres. The examination body reassured candidates, parents and schools that the integrity of the examination process remains intact.

WAEC attributed the reported disruptions to operational issues rather than security breaches and commended the collaboration of security agencies in protecting examination materials nationwide. The assurance comes as thousands of candidates continue writing their papers, with the council maintaining that monitoring will continue until the examination concludes to ensure the credibility of the results.

10. FG Rallies Team Nigeria Ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

President Bola Tinubu has hosted athletes and officials representing Team Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the country’s sporting ambitions. The send-off ceremony recognised the athletes’ preparations and encouraged them to represent Nigeria with pride on the international stage.

Officials said investments have been made in training camps, athlete welfare and preparations for key events, particularly in athletics, boxing and other sports where Nigeria has historically performed well. Sports enthusiasts are optimistic about the country’s medal prospects, with expectations that strong performances could further inspire young Nigerians to pursue careers in sports.