1. Presidency Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms Against Atiku
The Presidency has dismissed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, insisting that the allegations were based on outdated figures and ignored recent improvements in the economy. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the administration’s reforms had stabilised the economy, pointing to GDP recovery, easing inflation projections and improved government revenue.
The response follows Atiku’s criticism of fuel subsidy removal, tax reforms and borrowing under the Tinubu administration. The Presidency maintained that there was no N7.98 trillion oil windfall as alleged and argued that recent FAAC allocations reflected current market realities. The exchange has further heightened political tensions ahead of the 2027 general election, with both camps expected to continue defending their economic records.
2. US Makes $20,000 Visa Bond Permanent for Nigerians and 49 Other Countries
The United States has permanently introduced a visa bond programme requiring business and tourist visa applicants from Nigeria and 49 other countries to deposit refundable bonds ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. The policy, which takes effect from Monday, follows a pilot programme and is aimed at reducing visa overstays and strengthening immigration compliance.
Under the new rule, consular officers will determine whether applicants should pay $10,000, $15,000 or $20,000 based on individual assessments. The bond will be refunded once travellers comply with visa conditions and leave the US as required. The policy is expected to make travel more difficult for many Nigerians while generating fresh debate over immigration rules and bilateral relations.
3. Troops Repel Bandit Attack on Zamfara Military Base, Rescue Nine Victims
Nigerian troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have repelled a bandit attack on the Forward Operating Base at Kasuwan Daji in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State. During the operation, one Army officer and one police officer lost their lives, while two soldiers sustained injuries and nine kidnapped civilians were rescued.
The Army said reports claiming heavy military casualties were false, adding that the attackers suffered significant losses during the confrontation. Reinforcements have secured the area while security forces continue clearance operations to track down fleeing bandits. The incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing communities across the North-West.
4. INEC Publishes Credentials of Tinubu, Atiku, Obi and Other Presidential Candidates
The Independent National Electoral Commission has published the personal particulars and credentials of candidates contesting the 2027 presidential election, including President Bola Tinubu of the APC, Atiku Abubakar of the ADC and Peter Obi of the NDC. The publication also includes details of their running mates and other presidential hopefuls.
The exercise is in line with the Electoral Act, allowing Nigerians to examine candidates’ qualifications and submit objections where necessary. Campaigns for the presidential election are expected to begin later this month as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 polls.
5. FAAN Explains Smoke Incident at Lagos Airport Terminal 2
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has clarified that there was no fire outbreak at Terminal 2 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos after smoke caused panic among passengers and airport users. FAAN explained that the smoke resulted from the activation of the FM-200 fire suppression system rather than an actual fire.
Emergency responders immediately moved to the scene, and normal flight operations resumed shortly afterwards without injuries or casualties. The authority said investigations into the cause of the system’s activation are ongoing while assuring travellers of continued safety at the airport.
6. NGX Loses N1.26 Trillion as Investors Take Profit
The Nigerian Exchange ended the trading week with investors losing about N1.26 trillion as profit-taking dragged the All-Share Index lower. Despite the decline, trading activity remained strong, with over five billion shares exchanged across thousands of deals.
Analysts attributed the downturn to investors locking in gains after previous market rallies. Attention is now shifting to upcoming corporate earnings, economic indicators and policy developments that could determine the market’s next direction.
7. Naira Trades Around N1,368 at Official Market
The naira traded around N1,368 to the US dollar at the official foreign exchange market as demand for foreign currency remained high. The parallel market recorded slightly weaker rates, reflecting continued pressure on the exchange rate.
Market observers say the movement highlights ongoing liquidity challenges despite recent economic reforms. Oil earnings, foreign investment inflows and monetary policy decisions are expected to influence the currency in the coming weeks.
8. Peller and Jarvis Wedding Attracts Top Politicians and Celebrities
Popular content creators Peller and Jarvis held their wedding ceremony in Lagos, attracting several politicians, celebrities and prominent public figures. Photos and videos from the event quickly dominated social media, generating widespread reactions.
The ceremony highlighted the growing influence of digital creators in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and the increasing connection between social media personalities and political figures. The wedding remains one of the country’s biggest entertainment conversations.
9. Osimhen Scores Again for Galatasaray in Pre-Season Friendly
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was on target as Galatasaray played out an entertaining pre-season draw against French club Rennes. The goal continued the Nigerian forward’s impressive form ahead of the new football season.
Fans have welcomed his performances as he prepares for domestic and European competitions with the Turkish champions. The match also provided another opportunity for the striker to build fitness ahead of the competitive campaign.
10. Pastor Kumuyi Receives Global Recognition for Evangelism
The General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, has been honoured by the World Book of Records for reaching more than 50 million people through his global evangelistic crusades and humanitarian activities.
The recognition celebrates decades of ministry, education and outreach across several countries. The honour has been widely welcomed by members of the Christian community, who described it as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing global religious influence.
