Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 12th January, 2026

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 12th January, 2026

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Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 12th January, 2026

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed insinuations of a formal agreement between the people of Rivers State and President Bola Tinubu.

Naija News reports that Wike, during his thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of ​​Rivers State on Sunday, said Rivers State never negotiated any agreement with Tinubu before supporting him during the 2023 election.

According to the Minister, Tinubu only appealed for support and assured the people of Rivers State that they would not regret the decision.

Speaking further, Wike said President Tinubu has already demonstrated goodwill toward Rivers State by appointing someone from the oil-rich state as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

He describes Tinubu’s decision as a clear sign of confidence and appreciation, stressing that the President has done all that is required for Rivers state.

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has claimed that the Federal Government abandoned students studying overseas under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA).

Speaking via a statement on Sunday, he alleged that the BEA scheme was quietly obliterated during President Bola Tinubu’s administration without notice to parents or wards and without consideration for students already midway through their studies overseas.

He lamented that the alleged neglect has left about 1,600 young Nigerians stranded without support.

Describing the program as a “diplomatic bridge now left broken,” Atiku explained that the BEA, launched in 1993 and revitalized in 1999, was designed to enable Nigerian students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate education through agreements with partner countries.

According to him, the decision has left students abroad without stipends, with unpaid allowances now running into thousands of dollars per student.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has appealed to residents of the state to remain calm amid the fresh impeachment proceedings initiated against him by the State House of Assembly.

Naija News reports that Fubara made the call on Sunday during a church service to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, assuring the congregation that the situation in the state would not spiral out of control.

According to him, his decision to remain silent in the face of mounting political distractions was intentional and rooted in his faith in God.

The governor spoke briefly before inviting his deputy, Ngozi Odu, who had earlier read the first lesson at the service, to address worshippers.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned nationwide strike earlier scheduled to commence on Monday, January 12, following the intervention of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The decision brought temporary relief to patients and public hospitals across the country, as the association had earlier threatened to down tools over what it described as the Federal Government’s persistent failure to meet its demands.

Naija News reports that the resident doctors had cited several unresolved issues, including the non-payment of promotion and salary arrears, delay in the resumption and timely completion of the Collective Bargaining Agreement process, absence of a clear policy on skipping and entry level for chief executives, as well as the failure to fully implement previous agreements reached with the government.

The looming strike had raised concerns over the already fragile state of healthcare delivery in public hospitals nationwide.

The strike suspension came amid legal action by the Federal Government. The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja had earlier restrained the association and two of its officials from embarking on any form of industrial action from January 12, 2026.

Confirming the development, the President of NARD, Dr Mohammad Suleiman, told Daily Trust that the decision to suspend the strike followed direct engagement by the vice president.

The Nigerian Army has debunked reports which claimed the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised concerns over pipeline vandalism.

The Army, in a statement made available to Naija News on Sunday by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, clarified that General Shaibu, during his visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, did not raise any alarm in any quarter on alleged rising cases of pipeline vandalism.

The Army Statement added that the report by Sahara Reporters on the visit of the COAS is misleading and an attempt to misinform the public.

It warned that no attempt to blackmail the Army and the Chief of Army Staff would be entertained.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has dragged the Independent National Electoral Commission to court over the alleged failure to account for ₦55.9 billion reportedly meant for the procurement of election materials for the 2019 general elections.

The allegations are contained in the latest annual report of the Auditor-General of the Federation published on September 9, 2025.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/38/2026, filed last Friday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, SERAP is asking the court to compel the electoral body to explain the whereabouts of the funds.

Specifically, SERAP is seeking “an order of mandamus to direct and compel INEC to account for the missing or diverted ₦55.9bn meant to buy smart card readers, ballot papers, result sheets, and other election materials for the 2019 general elections.”

The organization is also asking the court to compel the commission to make public the identities of all contractors allegedly paid from the funds.

Gabriel Martinelli scored a brilliant hat-trick as Arsenal recovered from an early setback to record a comfortable victory over Championship side Portsmouth at Fratton Park and secure qualification for the fourth round of the FA Cup.

With several Premier League clubs already falling victim to shock defeats over the weekend, the Gunners appeared on course for a similar upset when the hosts stunned them inside the opening minutes.

Naija News reports that Portsmouth struck just three minutes into the encounter through Colby Bishop, who capitalized on a sluggish start from an Arsenal side that featured 10 changes from their usual starting line-up.

The early goal lifted the home fans and briefly exposed the visitors, who struggled to settle in the opening exchanges.

Arsenal, however, responded almost immediately. Just two minutes after conceding, Mikel Arteta’s side drew level from a well-worked corner, with Christian Norgaard forcing the ball into the net via Portsmouth midfielder Andre Dozzell.

Manchester United’s turbulent season took another painful turn on Sunday as the managerless Red Devils crashed out of the FA Cup following a 2–1 defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford.

Goals from Brajan Gruda and former United striker Danny Welbeck sealed a deserved third-round victory for the Seagulls, while Benjamin Sesko’s late header proved only a consolation on a night filled with boos, frustration and growing uncertainty around the club.

United’s misery was compounded in the closing moments when teenage winger Shea Lacey was sent off, summing up a chaotic evening for a side still reeling from Ruben Amorim’s shock sacking earlier in the week.

Caretaker manager Darren Fletcher was unable to arrest United’s alarming decline, with the Red Devils once again looking disjointed and vulnerable.

Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, popularly known as Portable, has reportedly been arrested by the police following a complaint filed by his baby mama, Ashabi Simple.

Naija News reports that the arrest came after weeks of public disagreement between the two, during which they accused each other of different issues on social media.

A video that surfaced online showed the singer struggling as officers tried to take him into custody.

In the clip, Portable was seen shouting and pulling away while people around him attempted to calm him down.

Senator Ned Nwoko has released records and messages to respond to allegations made by his wife, Regina Daniels.

Naija News reports that his team said the evidence includes a WhatsApp message from October 17, medical and therapy records, and staff statements.

The senator’s team rejected claims of domestic abuse, calling them an attempt to shift attention from long-standing health and behavior concerns.

They said independent toxicology reports showed the presence and misuse of multiple substances, supporting concerns that were raised privately months before the issue became public.

According to the team, Ned Nwoko had repeatedly encouraged professional help, including therapy and structured rehabilitation, long before the matter went public.

The October message, they said, reflected frustration and a push for continued professional support, not violence.

The communications team added that financial limits introduced by the senator were meant to prevent harmful behavior, not to punish.

That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija NewsSee you again tomorrow,


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Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 22nd December, 2025

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 22nd December, 2025

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Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 22nd December, 2025

The presidency on Sunday confirmed that no student of St. Mary’s Catholic Private Primary and Secondary School in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area of ​​Niger State remains in the captivity of bandits.

According to the Special Advisor to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, the remaining 130 pupils from the school have been released.

Dare, in a post via his 𝕏 account on Sunday, wrote, “Another 130 Abducted Niger State Pupils Released, None Left In Captivity.”

Naija News reports that the post was accompanied by a photo of smiling children and a woman.

The presidential spokesperson, however, did not give details of how the students regained freedom or if a ransom was paid to secure their release.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alleged public concerns over a recent recall alert involving Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour, assuring Nigerians that the affected product is neither registered nor sold in the country.

The agency made this clarification in a press release issued on Sunday.

NAFDAC explained that the recall was initiated by French health authorities and does not involve any Indomie product manufactured or approved for sale in Nigeria.

According to the agency, the alert was issued by Rappel Conso, France’s official consumer safety platform, after undeclared allergens – milk and eggs – were reportedly discovered in the Vegetable Flavor variant, posing health risks to individuals with allergies or intolerances.

The statement, signed by NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, stressed that the product in question is not registered with the agency and does not originate from Nigeria.

NAFDAC further noted that noodles are on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, making their importation into Nigeria illegal and significantly reducing the possibility of the affected product entering the country.

The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adolphus Wabara, has expressed optimism that Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, may consider defecting to the PDP ahead of his second-term bid.

Wabara said the party would not hesitate to present Otti as its governorship candidate in 2027 should he decide to join the PDP.

The former Senate President spoke on Sunday in Umuahia while responding to questions from journalists shortly after the launch of the Abia 25-Year Development Plan by the state government.

“If he makes up his mind to join the Big Umbrella, the party will not hesitate to give him the governorship ticket in 2027,” Wabara said.

He described the governor as a major political asset, noting that Otti’s performance in office had made him attractive across party lines.

According to Wabara, the growing interest in Otti by several political parties is a direct result of his governance record, which he said would count in his favor in the 2027 elections.

He added that ongoing efforts by the PDP National Working Committee, led by Senator Tanimu Turaki, to reposition and rebrand the party had strengthened its credibility ahead of future elections.

Wabara said the South-East remained a traditional stronghold of the PDP, stressing that Otti’s defection would further boost the party’s chances and restore the zone’s relevance in national politics.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reportedly taken the matter involving the suspension of Kogi Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from the Senate to the Supreme Court.

Naija News understands Akpabio is dissatisfied with the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which ruled that Akpabio’s case submission was fundamentally defective and incompetent, citing failure to comply with mandatory provisions of the Court of Appeal Rules.

Recall the appellate court had faulted the brief for multiple procedural violations, including unauthorized font size and line spacing, exceeding the 35-page limit, and failure to seek leave to regularise the defects.

According to a report by Vanguard, Akpabio’s lawyers have approached the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the judgment of the Appeal Court, which struck out the Federal Government’s brief of argument in the appeal.

They believe the apex court would rule in their favor because the Appeal Court had thrown out the case based on technicalities and not the substance of the matter.

The Senate President team argued that the Court of Appeal violated his constitutional right to a fair hearing by refusing to grant leave to correct the defective brief or permit him to exceed the page limit.

On their part, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team has expressed confidence in the judiciary, saying the Supreme Court appeal is a last-ditch effort to overturn a decision reached in accordance with the law.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) has invited billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote regarding his petition against the immediate past Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed.

Dangote had accused Farouk of corruption and misappropriation of funds, including spending millions of dollars on his four children’s education in expensive and exclusive schools in Switzerland.

Farouk has since resigned from his position.

However, a source in the ICPC, who spoke to The Nation, disclosed that the commission has raised a panel of crack investigators on Friday to handle the probe.

Dangote is expected to appear or send his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN), tomorrow when ICPC’s investigation of the petition formally commences.

The 2023 Labor Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the House of Representatives to intensify efforts to curb vote-buying.

Naija News reports Peter Obi, in a post via 𝕏 on Sunday, asserted that a democracy where votes are bought is not a true democracy but a criminal marketplace.

While decrying the damage vote-buying has caused to Nigerian society, the former Governor of Anambra State described the act as a cancer on Nigeria’s development.

According to Peter Obi, vote-buying has long undermined the nation’s democracy and tarnished its credibility.

He further stated that credible elections cannot be built on corrupt foundations, and national progress cannot be achieved while inducement and bribery are legitimised in the democratic process.

Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, has shared her thoughts on how society now views single mothers.

Naija News reports that in a video, the mother of two said the attitude has changed as more men are openly seeking serious relationships with women who already have children.

The actress spoke on December 20, 2025, while addressing the growing confidence among single mothers and how they are now better accepted in relationships and marriage.

She explained that single motherhood is no longer seen as something to be ashamed of, noting that many women in this situation are thriving in their careers and raising successful children.

According to her, the old belief that single mothers should be sidelined is fading fast.

Iyabo Ojo said many men now prefer single mothers because they are more mature and understand life better.

She added that these men are no longer interested in casual relationships but often make it clear that they want commitment and marriage.

She also encouraged women who have gone through broken relationships not to lose hope, stating that the end of one relationship does not mean the end of love or marriage opportunities.

The actress described herself as the President General of the Single Mothers Association and urged single mothers to carry themselves with confidence, strength, and self-respect.

Nollywood actor, Daniel Etim-Effiong, has shared how a painful experience during his university days changed the direction of his life and faith.

Naija News reports that the actor revealed in an interview with Taymesan that he was once expelled from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, after being wrongly accused of cultism.

He explained that the incident shocked him deeply and left him emotionally broken, especially because he believed he had done nothing wrong.

After leaving school, Etim-Effiong moved to Jos in Plateau State.

He said the new environment gave him a sense of freedom, but that freedom came with anger and confusion.

During that period, he picked up habits such as smoking and womanizing, actions he linked to frustration and disappointment with life.

He explained that the situation affected his relationship with God.

Host nation Morocco launched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday evening, marking the beginning of Africa’s premier football tournament.

Real Madrid’s Brahim Díaz broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a composed finish inside the box, scoring the first goal of the tournament and igniting the passionate home crowd.

Olympiacos striker Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the victory in the 74th minute with a spectacular bicycle kick, delivering a goal-of-the-tournament contender that sent the stadium into raptures.

The opening 45 minutes proved frustrating for the Atlas Lions despite their territorial dominance. Morocco missed a crucial penalty through Soufiane Rahimi, with Comoros goalkeeper Pandor making a brilliant save to keep his side level at halftime. The hosts controlled possession and created multiple chances but struggled to convert their superiority into goals.

9. Amorim Gives Update On Bruno Fernandes’ Injury After 2-1 Defeat To Aston Villa

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Bruno Fernandes will be sidelined for “a while” after sustaining a hamstring injury in their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday.

Fernandes pulled up in the first half with no one near him and was seen rubbing the back of his right leg.

Amorim subsequently decided to replace Fernandes with Lisandro Martínez during the interval.

“I think it’s soft tissue, so it’s going to be a while. We’ll see,” Amorim told Sky Sports.

“It is really strange. During this year, especially at this time, we have so many problems, but we have to cope with that.”

That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija NewsSee you again tomorrow,


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Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 15th December, 2025

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 15th December, 2025

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Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 15th December, 2025

The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in both public and private secondary schools, beginning from the 2026/27 academic session.

The directive is part of renewed efforts by the Federal Ministry of Education to address the growing issue of examination malpractice and restore credibility to Nigeria’s education system.

In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, Boriowo Folasade, the government said the prohibition would apply to all secondary schools across the country.

“The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced a nationwide prohibition on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools,” the statement read.

Under the new policy, students will only be eligible for admission or transfer into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2).

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has denied knowledge of any parallel governorship primary by a faction of the Accord Party, following reports of a disputed exercise held on Sunday in the state capital, Osogbo.

INEC’s assertion comes amid confusion over claims that a factional primary produced Bamigbola Clement as a candidate ahead of the August 8, 2026, governorship election.

The controversial primary reportedly took place in Osogbo, where Clement, presented as the sole aspirant, confirmed his emergence, saying he was selected by consensus.

However, INEC’s Public Relations Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurude, stated that the commission had not been notified of any such exercise.

The presidency has described some opposition politicians as attempting to revive their failed political careers by calling out the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The statement from the presidency, issued and signed by Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, accused the opposition figures of seeking scapegoats for their failure.

The message comes after a coalition of opposition leaders issued a joint statement raising a major alarm about the alleged politicization of key anti-corruption and security agencies in Nigeria.

In the statement signed by David Mark, Atiku Abubakar, Mallam Lawal Batagawara, Chief Bode George, Peter Obi, and Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, they accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of using security and anti-graft agencies as tools for the “systematic persecution of opposition leaders.”

The statement emphasized that state institutions – particularly the EFCC, the Nigeria Police, and the ICPC – are increasingly being deployed for “selective justice” with the ultimate aim of weakening opposition voices and dismantling the nation’s multi-party democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, the presidency said the opposition coalition would fail just like its members failed in their political careers.

It countered submissions that opposition figures are being forced to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that those defecting to the APC are doing so of their own free will and because of the good things they have observed in the Tinubu government.

It also denied claims that the government is weaponising state institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against opposition figures in the country.

The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has disclosed that several former ministers, current top government officials and senior public office holders at both federal and state levels are under investigation by the bureau.

Naija News reports that this was disclosed by the CCB Chairman, Dr Abubakar Bello, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

He, however, stopped short of mentioning the names of those under investigation in order to avoid a media trial.

The CCB boss emphasized that the bureau is apolitical in its operations and nobody is above the law.

Bello added that the Bureau had already secured interim forfeiture orders from the courts on some of those under investigation.

He added that the CCB prefers to work away from media scrutiny so as to avoid public condemnation before evidence is established.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday confirmed that 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel and a C-130 aircraft detained in Burkina Faso have not yet been released, as diplomatic discussions remain ongoing.

Speaking on the development, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the Federal Government was actively engaging with the Burkina Faso authorities to resolve the matter amicably.

“We are engaging them, but they are yet to be released,” Ebienfa told Sunday PUNCH.

He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had fully taken over the negotiations to secure the release of both the detained military personnel and the aircraft.

While the ministry declined to disclose further details on the circumstances surrounding the detention, it assured that discussions were being handled through appropriate diplomatic channels.

The Nigerian Air Force personnel were detained last week after their aircraft reportedly made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso amid airspace violation claims by the host country.

Former Senate Leader Senator, Ali Ndume, has insisted that President Bola Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominee list is lopsided, despite his participation in the screening exercise by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Naija News reports Ndume had, ahead of the screening, raised concerns over what he described as the lopsided composition of the nominees, arguing that it violated Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the application of the federal character principle in the composition of the federal government to promote national unity.

In an interview with journalists on Sunday, the Borno South senator said he was persuaded by his colleagues on the committee not to boycott the screening and confirmation exercise.

Ndume also emphasized that he secured assurances from the committee’s leadership that concerns over imbalance in the nominations would be formally conveyed to the President.

According to the lawmaker, states omitted from the current nominations must be accommodated in the final list to be forwarded to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

He noted that some states, such as Gombe and Yobe, were not represented, while others only had career ambassadors, whom he described as largely non-political appointees.

Popular Nigerian content creator and social media influencer, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has been hospitalized.

Naija News reports the social media influencer was hospitalized following an accident on Sunday involving his newly-acquired Mercedes-Benz.

The accident occurred along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos during an Instagram live session.

A visibly emotional Peller was seen lamenting relationship-related issues and threatening to kill himself shortly before the car crash.

The content creator, who was on a livestream, repeatedly expressed concerns about his relationship ending, and threatened to harm himself.

Moments later, footage showed Peller veering off the road and colliding with a barrier, causing significant damage to the luxury vehicle. Bystanders quickly assisted him at the scene, and he was rushed to a hospital.

Nollywood actress, Doris Ogala, has attempted suicide over the failed relationship with the founder of Liberation City Church, Ojodu Berger, Pastor Chris Okafor.

Naija News reported that the actress, in a viral video on social media, lamented that Okafor had destroyed her life.

The 44-year-old thespian alleged that she has been in an intimate relationship with the Lagos-based pastor since 2017.

Doris, in tears, says she has lost everything to her relationship with the pastor, claiming that she had a miscarriage for Okafor, lost her brother mysteriously, and has lost her health ever since.

She stated that the pastor deceived her into ending her marriage to her husband, promising to marry her, but has now gone ahead to announce his engagement to another woman.

According to her, she has endured traumatic experiences, including miscarriages, during her relationship with the pastor.

Her outburst followed the circulation of a video showing Pastor Okafor proposing to a woman in a celebratory gathering attended by family and friends.

The engagement, which appeared to have taken place privately, became public hours before Ogala released her video.

South Africa-based Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, was among the first set of players to arrive in camp ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Naija News reports that Francis Uzoho, Italy-based duo Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Akinsanmiro Ebenezer completed the list of early arrivals at the Eagles camp at the Renaissance Hotels in Cairo, Egypt on Sunday night.

It is understood that six more players, including Igoh Ogbu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Tochukwu Nnadi, Amas Obasogie, Ademola Lookman, and Semi Ajayi are expected to arrive in camp later tonight.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to hold their first training session on Monday, with Eric Chelle’s side set to face the Pharaohs of Egypt in a friendly at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday.

It would be recalled that Chelle, on Thursday, unveiled his final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving out Maduka Okoye while handing a recall to Francis Uzoho as preparations intensify for the tournament in Morocco.

10. EPL: Man City, Aston Villa Record Wins

Manchester City thumped Crystal Palace 3-0 on Sunday to climb back to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal as Aston Villa twice came from behind to beat West Ham.

Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest demolished Tottenham 3–0, while Sunderland saw off local rivals Newcastle 1–0 thanks to a Nick Woltemade own goal.

Arsenal, who have set the pace in this season’s Premier League, squeaked home on Saturday with a 2-1 win against bottom-club Wolves, thanks to two own goals.

That put the pressure back on City, who have been showing ominous signs that they are finding their feet in recent weeks.

That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija NewsSee you again tomorrow,


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Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 8th December, 2025

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 8th December, 2025

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Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 8th December, 2025

The Federal Government has reportedly secured the release of 100 schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of ​​Niger State.

Bandits had, on November 21, 2025, invaded the remote Papiri community around 2:00 am, arriving on motorbikes and attacking the school dormitories for over three hours. By the time they retreated, 315 people, 303 students and 12 teachers, had been taken away.

In the first 24 hours after the abduction, 50 pupils managed to escape and were reunited with their families. However, 265 individuals, 253 children and all 12 teachers, remained in captivity.

Security agents, alongside local hunters, were immediately deployed to comb the surrounding forests in search of the missing victims.

The Federal Government intensified the operation by imposing a 24-hour security cordon and launching aerial surveillance across Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States.

President Bola Tinubu also canceled scheduled international engagements to address the crisis.

The reported military coup in the Republic of Benin appears to be rapidly collapsing, according to an official statement from the Presidency.

President Patrice Talon is confirmed to be safe, and his office insists that the regular army is regaining control of the situation.

Speaking to AFP on Sunday, the presidency downplayed the attempt led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, who had declared himself head of the “Military Committee for Refoundation” (CMR) on state television:

“This is a small group of people who only control the television,” the presidency stated.

The office emphasized that the government remains fully in charge:

“The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure.”

Recall that military officers in the Benin Republic had claimed to have taken control of the federal government.

Naija News learned that a group of soldiers on Sunday Morning, December 7, 2025, announced the dissolution of the current government during a national broadcast.

The group, which labels itself the Military Committee for Refoundation, said the president, all political officeholders, and all state institutions have been effectively removed.

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday evening departed Abuja for Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire.

Naija News reports that Shettima is to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Mr Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term in office as President of that country.

The Vice President made this known in a post on his social media page.

Senator Shettima is expected to join other leaders across Africa and beyond to witness activities lined up for the swearing-in ceremony scheduled to hold on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan.

Ouattara was re-elected for a fourth term in office on October 25, 2025, as President of Côte d’Ivoire, a West African country that shares cordial diplomatic ties with Nigeria.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vowed that he would do everything possible to ensure the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) does not go into extinction.

This is as he added that he and other founding members of the PDP would not allow those who joined the party from other political parties to kill the PDP.

Naija News reports that Wike made the submission on Sunday in Abuja while speaking at the 104th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held by his PDP faction at his official residence.

He accused the other faction of violating court judgments by conducting what he described as an “illegal convention,” insisting that the party must respect judicial processes if it intends to regain public confidence.

He accused the opposing faction of relying on propaganda and warned that leaders must not allow selfish interests to destroy the political platform that has existed since 1998.

United States lawmaker representing the Virginia’s Second District in the House of Congress, Riley Moore, is currently in Nigeria.

Naija News reports that the lawmaker, who made this known on Sunday via a post on his official

He said, “I came to Nigeria in the name of the Lord and on behalf of the American people.

“Just ending a very productive visit to Nigeria and rounds of meetings. More details to come. Happy Sunday. God is Great!”

Although Moore did not give details of his visit to Nigeria, it may not be unconnected to the ongoing investigation into alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria.

Confirming the visit and giving more details, Nuhu Ribadu, President Bola Tinubu’s National Security Advisor, wrote on

As the tenure of the present Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee (NWC) ends on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party has constituted a National Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the party, pending the conduct of a national convention.

Naija News reports that the decision was taken at the 104th NEC meeting of the party held in Abuja on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

The 13-member Caretaker Committee has Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed as Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Secretary.

Other members of the Caretaker Committee are; National Legal Advisor, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), National Organizing Secretary, Hon. Umar M. Bature, Dr Kyari Grema, Hon Janguda Haruna Mohammed, Barr. Okechukwu Osuana, Senator Nwogu Olaka, Senator Sandy Onor, Prof. Adenike Ogunse, Hon. Bisi Kolawole, Engr Deji Doherty, and Dr Ibrahim Bala Aboki.

The Caretaker Committee has been mandated to run the affairs of the party for a period of 60 days, during which all pending congresses should be conducted and a national convention should be held.

French President, Emmanuel Macron, has pledged to deepen France’s support for Nigeria in addressing the growing security challenges, particularly the terrorist threat in the northern region.

In a post on 𝕏, shared on Sunday, Macron revealed that he had engaged in a conversation with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, during which he expressed France’s solidarity with Nigeria in its battle against terrorism and other security concerns.

Macron wrote, “I spoke with President Tinubu of Nigeria, I conveyed France’s solidarity in the face of the various security challenges, particularly the terrorist threat in the North.”

He emphasized France’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigerian authorities and to offering greater support to affected populations. Macron also called on other international partners to intensify their efforts in supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

Nollywood actress, Bimbo Akintola, has opened up about a terrifying period in her life when she was stalked by the same man for over nine years.

Naija News reports that in an interview with Chude, she explained that during that time, she received up to 50 phone calls daily and disturbing messages that described what the man wanted to do to her.

Akintola said she kept the ordeal from her family, fearing her mother would panic.

The harassment was relentless, with messages arriving every day or every other day, causing her immense stress and fear.

She revealed that, without explanation, the stalking suddenly stopped one day, leaving her without closure or understanding of why it ended after nearly a decade.

Nigerian singer, Kingsley Okonkwo, popularly known as Kcee, has clarified the long-rumored rift with his colleague, Flavour.

Naija News recalls that the duo engaged in a social media clash in 2024 after Flavor shaded someone online for allegedly copying his musical style.

While Flavor did not mention anyone, Kcee responded to the social media post, warning the highlife musician to stop trying to gatekeep Igbo cultural music because he had been in the music industry before him.

However, in a recent interview with Yanga FM Lagos, Kcee suggested that the alleged rift might stem from his first encounter with Flavour, when popular talent manager, Soso Soberekon, brought Flavor to him to sign to his record label.

The Limpopo crooner explained that he refused to give Flavor a record deal because he did not see potential in him at that time.

He emphasized that some of his colleagues believe he is not talented because he does not brag about it.

Nigerian singer, Chike Ezekpeazu, has opened up about why he stopped attending church regularly.

Naija News reports that in an interview with VJ Adams, he revealed that running into someone from his past at a church made him feel uncomfortable, bringing back memories that made attending services difficult.

The singer said he stayed only briefly before deciding to leave.

Chike made it clear that stepping away from church does not mean he lost his belief in God.

He recalled a time early in his career when he prayed for guidance while living in Primewater Gardens with his girlfriend, seeking help during a period when he felt alone and uncertain about his future.

He also mentioned a strange experience shortly after releasing his first album when he accidentally consumed a strong edible and felt disoriented for several days.

Despite such moments, Chike said he learned the importance of living rightly and treating others well, regardless of whether he follows church rituals.

That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija NewsSee you again tomorrow,

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]


https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/08/top-nigerian-newspaper-headlines-for-today-monday-8th-december-2025/

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Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 1st December, 2025

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Monday, 1st December, 2025

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Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 1st December, 2025

The presidency on Sunday declared that parts of the failure of the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo are responsible for the current challenges of insecurity facing Nigeria.

The Special Advisor to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, in a statement on Sunday, condemned what he described as attempts by Obasanjo to paint the Tinubu administration in a bad light and unable to protect Nigerians.

He submitted that instead of castigating the current administration, Obasanjo should use his connections and influence to help Nigeria.

Naija News reports that Obasanjo, while reacting to the recent security challenges in the country under the current administration, declared that Nigeria must take firm military action and accept international help to halt worsening insecurity.

Obasanjo spoke in Jos, the Plateau State capital, at the Plateau State Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, warning that a diplomacy-heavy response to terrorism signaled weakness when citizens were dying.

However, the presidency, in its response, said the submissions by Obasanjo and others who have spoken in like manner are both hypocritical and ignoble.

The statement added that the call by Obasanjo for the Tinubu administration to submit to international help in order to fight the terrorists is not statesmanship.

Dare added that the incumbent government recognizes the war against insurgency and is deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts in tackling the situation.

The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Sunday paid a prison visit to the convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.

The development was made public by Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and the Biafran agitator’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, in separate statements shared on Facebook on Sunday.

In his post, Ejimakor showered praise on the governor for keeping to his pledge, writing, “Thank you for fulfilling the promise you made to me to visit your brother, MAZI NNAMDI KANU. You’re a man of your words and gutsy to boot.”

He added, “May God bless you. And may your august visit to Sokoto today be the first step to ending this undeserved ordeal, sooner than later.”

On his part, Emmanuel Kanu declared that the visit carried symbolic weight, adding, “Governor Alex Otti and the people of Sokoto have made a unified statement by visiting Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, on Sunday, accused President Bola Tinubu of presiding over one of the most brazen financial scandals in Nigeria’s history.

Naija News reports that Atiku made this claim following reports that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) spent ₦17.5 trillion in just one year on pipeline and energy security.

In a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office on Sunday, the former Vice President said the figure represented almost the same amount Nigeria spent on fuel subsidy over a 12-year period.

Atiku said, “For clarity, Nigeria spent roughly ₦18 trillion on fuel subsidy over twelve years, a national program that directly cushioned millions of Nigerians, stabilized the transport sector, and helped keep food prices manageable.

“Yet, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the country has now expended nearly the same amount in a single year on opaque pipeline security contracts awarded to private firms tied to associates and cronies of the President.”

He likened the expenditure to “robbing Peter (Nigerians) to pay Paul (cronies),” describing it as “grand larceny dressed as public expenditure.”

Atiku also condemned the Tinubu administration for what he called hypocrisy and deception in its handling of Nigeria’s fuel subsidy policy.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the recent list of persons unveiled by President Bola Tinubu for ambassadorial appointments.

The ADC submitted that the list is insensitive, uninspiring and amounts to nothing more than a political settlement by Tinubu to some of his cronies despite the over two years of delay before the appointments were made.

Specifically, the ADC questioned the nomination of the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who supervised the election that brought in Tinubu as the President of Nigeria.

Naija News recalls that President Tinubu, on Saturday, appointed several new non-career and career ambassadors.

Among those freshly named for ambassadorial positions are former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, former Enugu State governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, former Ekiti First Lady, Erelu Angela Adebayo, former First Lady of Oyo, Fatima Florence Ajimobi, and former governor of Abia State, Victor Okezie Ikpeazu.

However, the ADC held that Yakubu’s presence on the list would lend credence to the widespread allegation that the former INEC chairman may not have been a neutral umpire in the 2023 election and could further undermine the credibility of INEC.

In a statement on Sunday, signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said that at a time when INEC is still mired in a major credibility crisis following the highly disputed and controversial 2023 general election, Prof. Yakubu’s nomination for an ambassadorial position sends a dangerous message.

It urged Professor Yakubu to reject the nomination and further called on the Senate to reject the former INEC Chairman’s nomination.

The petrol market recorded another change as the Dangote Refinery and a few other depot operators reduced their gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit to N840 per liter.

Naija News reports that new rate moved down from the previous N843, following a fall in the price of Brent crude, which averaged $62 per barrel over the weekend.

The drop in crude cost pushed refiners and other players in the downstream market to adjust their prices.

Market checks showed that the Dangote Refinery, AIPEC and NIPCO all moved their depot price to N840 per litre.

Other depots reviewed their rates differently, with Rainoil at N844, Sigmund at N858, Master Energy at N858 and Northwest at N850 per liter.

Operators linked the price change to the dip in global crude, which affects refining and distribution costs.

The Kogi State Government on Sunday announced it has intensified surveillance and patrols, launching a manhunt for bandits who attacked the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba.

Naija News understands that the gunmen stormed the church during today’s service and whisked away the pastor, his wife, and an unspecified number of worshippers.
‎However, the State government, through the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, said, “Yes, I have information to that effect, and I am also aware that the security network, comprising the conventional security agencies and the local security architecture, is currently doing what they should do.

The anti-graft agency, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has told a Lagos High Court, Ikeja division, that it possessed no documentary or forensic evidence backing claims that Jude Okoye and his twin brother, Paul, fraudulently withdrew $800,000 belonging to the defunct music group, P-Square.

The allegation traces to a 2024 petition by Peter Okoye, who accused Jude and Paul Okoye of fund diversion and secretly operating 47 undisclosed bank accounts, while manipulating the shareholding structure of Northside Entertainment Ltd.

Naija News reports that following the petition, the commission filed financial misconduct charges against Jude, linking them to the management of the P-Square brand.

Under cross-examination, EFCC counsel, MK Bashir, told Justice Rahman Oshodi that the commission could not produce proof for the alleged $800,000 withdrawal.

Pressed by the court to substantiate the claim, Bashir replied: “We do not have it. It is his evidence. Let him prove it. I can’t give what I don’t have.”

He further denied holding proof of the alleged 47 bank accounts, adding, “It is one of the witness’s claims, but I do not have such a copy.”

Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has announced that his Facebook and Instagram pages have been taken down.

Naija News reports that the activist said it happened shortly after he released his new track, Open Letter to Donald Trump.

He said on Sunday that he has been unable to log into both accounts since the song came out.

Checks also showed that the pages could no longer be opened.

The rapper, known for his strong views on politics and governance, did not state how long the suspension might last or whether Meta gave him any notice.

Open Letter to Donald Trump, released in November 2025 under Lakreem Entertainment, takes aim at corruption, insecurity and poor leadership in Nigeria.

Though framed as a message to the US president, the song focuses on Nigeria’s leaders.

Abdulkareem called out those in power for living well while citizens face hardship.

He also pointed to the rise in kidnappings, killings and other crimes that leave many people unsafe and worried.

Chelsea showed remarkable grit to take a point off Arsenal in a fiercely contested 1–1 draw at Stamford Bridge in which they played for 57 minutes with a man down.

Moises Caicedo’s sending off in the 38th minute threw the match into chaos and left Enzo Maresca’s team staring at a long and difficult evening. Anthony Taylor’s decision was upheld after a VAR check, and Chelsea suddenly found themselves trying to contain a league-leading Arsenal side with more than half the match still to play.

What followed surprised everyone inside the ground. Instead of folding, Chelsea came out for the second half with purpose. Within three minutes they were in front through Trevoh Chalobah, who met Reece James’ corner with a perfectly judged header that skimmed past the goalkeeper and ignited the home crowd.

Arsenal, who had been noticeably flat before the break, finally found its rhythm. Mikel Arteta sent on Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke to inject some creativity, and the shift in intensity was almost immediate.

Their breakthrough came in the 59th minute when Mikel Merino climbed above his marker to steer Bukayo Saka’s cross into the net, leveling the score and reasserting Arsenal’s grip on possession.

By the final whistle, Arsenal looked frustrated as they failed to stretch their lead at the top of the table. On the other hand, Chelsea ended the weekend sitting third on the table, 6 points below Arsenal, and a point behind second-placed Manchester City.

Alexander Isak finally opened his English Premier League (EPL) account for Liverpool as the Reds earned a crucial 2-0 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

The 26-year-old striker, who joined in a British-record £125m transfer, had endured five league appearances without a goal and had scored only once in 11 outings across all competitions. But he ended that barren spell with a composed finish at the hour mark.

Cody Gakpo added a stoppage-time goal to seal Liverpool’s first win in four games.

Manager Arne Slot admitted the win was vital after a miserable run that saw Liverpool lose nine of their previous 12 matches, including a humiliating 4–1 defeat to PSV and back-to-back 3–0 league losses.

That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija NewsSee you again tomorrow,

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]


https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/01/top-nigerian-newspaper-headlines-for-today-monday-1st-december-2025/

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