RECAP: Top 10 Stories from Nigeria (March 31 – April 6, 2025

​The past week in Nigeria has been marked by a series of significant events spanning economic reforms, public health challenges, security concerns, and political developments. These occurrences have not only captured national attention but have also elicited varied responses from both the government and the populace. From strategic appointments aimed at revitalizing the oil sector to pressing public health interventions and contentious political debates, the nation's landscape has been dynamic and eventful.​

In the economic sphere, the federal government has initiated measures to bolster key sectors, reflecting a commitment to addressing longstanding challenges. Concurrently, public health authorities are grappling with outbreaks that necessitate swift action to prevent further casualties. Security issues, particularly in the central regions, have raised alarms, prompting calls for enhanced measures to safeguard communities. Amidst these, political narratives continue to evolve, with allegations and counter-allegations shaping the discourse.​

Here are the top ten trending stories from Nigeria over the past week:

1. Leadership Change at NNPC: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Bayo Ojulari, a former Shell executive, as the new CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). This strategic move aims to rejuvenate the nation's oil sector, which has been plagued by declining production and large-scale theft. Ojulari is tasked with restructuring the company to enhance efficiency and transparency. ​

   
   

2. World Bank Approves $1.08 Billion Loan: The World Bank sanctioned a $1.08 billion loan for Nigeria to enhance education quality, bolster household and community resilience, and improve nutrition for underserved groups. This funding is part of efforts to mitigate economic hardships exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

   
   

3. Meningitis Outbreak and Vaccine Response: Nigeria received over one million vaccines from Gavi’s global stockpile to combat a meningitis outbreak that has resulted in at least 74 deaths and over 800 cases across 23 states. Health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccination in curbing the spread. ​

   
   

4. Police Warn Against Nationwide Protest: The Nigeria Police Force cautioned the "Take It Back Movement" against proceeding with a planned nationwide protest on April 7, coinciding with the National Police Day celebration. Authorities described the protest as ill-timed and urged organizers to reconsider. ​

   
   

5. Emir Sanusi's Summons Withdrawn: Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reversed the invitation previously issued to Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, to appear for interrogation in Abuja. The decision followed consultations and considerations of the prevailing circumstances. ​

   
   

6. Plateau Community Attacks: Suspected intercommunal violence in Plateau State resulted in the deaths of over 40 individuals, with numerous houses destroyed. The attacks have raised concerns about security in the region, prompting calls for enhanced measures to prevent further incidents. ​

   
   

7. Lagos Gas Explosion Injuries: A gas explosion in the Ijora-Badia area of Lagos injured 15 people, including children. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about safety regulations and enforcement in densely populated urban areas. ​

   
   

8. Edo Tribunal Judgment Leak: Copies of an unsigned document, purported to be the judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, surfaced online, leading to public outcry and debates about the integrity of the judicial process. Authorities are investigating the source of the leak. ​

   
   

9. Akpabio and Ododo Address Natasha's Claims: Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo responded to allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, leading to heated political exchanges and media discussions. Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Akpabio of orchestrating plans to have her recalled from the Senate and assassinated. 

   
   

10. Kano Eid-el-Fitr Killing Investigation: Following the withdrawal of the police invitation to Emir Sanusi, detectives were dispatched to Kano to investigate the killing that occurred during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, aiming to bring perpetrators to justice. ​

As Nigeria navigates these multifaceted challenges, the coming week is poised to be pivotal in determining the trajectory of these unfolding events. The implementation of reforms in the oil sector, particularly under the new NNPC leadership, will be closely monitored for signs of progress or resistance. Similarly, the government's utilization of the World Bank loan will be scrutinized to ensure that the funds effectively address the intended areas of education, community resilience, and nutrition.​

Public health responses to the meningitis outbreak will remain a focal point, with expectations of intensified vaccination campaigns and preventive measures. Security strategies in regions like Plateau State will be under the spotlight, as authorities work to prevent further violence and restore peace. On the political front, the developments surrounding the Edo tribunal judgment and the allegations involving high-profile figures like Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan are anticipated to evolve, potentially influencing the broader political landscape.