1. Tinubu Hails Rescue of 308 Kidnap Victims in Kwara and Niger
President Bola Tinubu has praised the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in separate attacks in Kwara and Niger states, describing it as the largest same-day rescue ever carried out by a joint security team. The victims, rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest, were freed during an intelligence-led operation involving the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and the National Counter-Terrorism Centre.
The rescued victims are receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families. Tinubu directed security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, early warning systems and rapid response operations to prevent future mass abductions across the country.
2. EFCC Freezes Osun Government Account Ahead of Governorship Election
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has placed a post-no-debit order on an Osun State Government bank account over an ongoing investigation into the alleged diversion of about ₦11 billion in public funds.
The anti-graft agency said the action followed suspicious transfers involving Ecology Funds, Intervention Funds and FAAC allocations. While the Osun State Government has vowed to challenge the decision in court, political parties and civil society groups have questioned the timing of the account freeze ahead of the governorship election.
3. Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel
President Bola Tinubu has approved a salary increase ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the new pay structure taking effect from September 1, 2026.
The Federal Government said the review is aimed at improving the welfare and morale of military personnel involved in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry and other security operations. Defence authorities described the decision as a major boost for troops serving across different theatres of operation.
4. Dangote Refinery Reduces Petrol and Diesel Prices
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced fresh reductions in the ex-depot prices of petroleum products, cutting the price of petrol to ₦1,165 per litre and diesel to ₦1,570 per litre.
The refinery said the adjustment is intended to improve affordability, support economic activities and ensure stable fuel supply nationwide. Industry analysts expect marketers to review pump prices in response to the latest reduction.
5. WAEC Releases 2026 WASSCE Results, Withholds Over 167,000
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the 2026 WASSCE results for school candidates, with 1,200,514 candidates obtaining at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
WAEC also withheld the results of 167,486 candidates over alleged examination malpractice involving mobile phones and organised cheating. Candidates have been advised to check their results through the council’s online portal.
6. Flying Eagles Reach WAFU B U-20 Championship Final
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have qualified for the final of the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship after defeating hosts Côte d’Ivoire 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw.
The victory also secured Nigeria’s qualification for the 2027 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The Flying Eagles will now face Burkina Faso in the tournament final as they aim to retain the regional title.
7. Political Tension Rises Ahead of Osun Governorship Election
Fresh accusations have emerged between Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC) over alleged vote-buying, fraud and voter intimidation ahead of the Osun governorship election.
The disagreement follows the EFCC’s decision to freeze a state government account, with both parties accusing each other of attempting to influence the electoral process. Stakeholders have called for peaceful, credible and transparent elections.
8. FG Promises to Clear Wage Awards and Promotion Arrears
The Federal Government has assured civil servants that outstanding wage awards and promotion arrears will be paid within the coming weeks.
Officials said funds have been set aside to settle the backlog, fulfilling agreements reached with labour unions. The move is expected to improve workers’ welfare and reduce industrial tensions in the public sector.
9. Four Oil Firms Record 185% Profit Growth in First Half of the Year
Four major oil companies operating in Nigeria have reported a combined 185 per cent increase in profits during the first half of the year, with total revenue reaching about ₦5 trillion.
Analysts attributed the strong performance to improved crude oil production, favourable global prices and reforms in the petroleum sector. The results reinforce the industry’s continued contribution to Nigeria’s economy.
10. Sowore Leads Protests Over Hardship and Insecurity
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and several civil society organisations staged protests in Abuja and Lagos over rising economic hardship and insecurity.
The demonstrators demanded improved living conditions, stronger security measures and greater government accountability. Security agencies monitored the protests, which remained largely peaceful.
