Author: Adejuyigbe Adegoke

Nigerian motorists are beginning to feel relief at the pumps as major filling stations reduce the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), following a recent downward review by Dangote Refinery. The move marks a significant shift in our downstream oil market and highlights the growing influence of private refining on domestic fuel prices. Major Marketers Slash Pump Prices A survey of filling stations in Abuja on Wednesday revealed notable reductions by several marketers. MRS lowered its pump price to ₦739 per litre from ₦910, AA Rano adjusted to ₦840 per litre from ₦910, and Bovas cut its price to ₦865…

December 16, 2025, was marked by significant developments across our political, economic, legal, and social landscape. From decisive regulatory actions by the Central Bank of Nigeria aimed at strengthening the financial system, to high-profile corruption investigations, security concerns, and major sports and cultural headlines, the day’s news reflected a nation grappling with reform, accountability, and public interest issues. These stories not only dominated our public discourse but also underscored broader themes of governance, economic stability, rule of law, and societal responsibility. I presented below the top ten trending news stories in Nigeria on December 16, 2025, each offering insight into…

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN), approval of 82 Bureau De Change (BDC), operators under its revised regulatory framework has reignited debate across foreign exchange market. To some, the figure appears modest; to others, it represents a long-awaited reset of a sector long accused of opacity, speculation, and weak oversight. What is clear, however, is that the licensing exercise is neither concluded nor accidental—it is a deliberate attempt by the apex bank to fundamentally reshape the retail forex landscape. A Signal, Not a Conclusion Announced on December 8, 2025, the approval of 82 BDC operators is best understood as a…

In a significant move aimed at strengthening fiscal planning amid global economic uncertainty, the Senate has approved a reduction of the crude oil price benchmark to $60 per barrel for the 2026 fiscal year as part of its consideration of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), for 2026–2028. The move followed recommendations by the Senate Committee on Finance, presented during extended plenary by its chairman, Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East). In his explanation, Senator Musa emphasized that the reduction was made in recognition of global geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East and the resulting…

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has taken decisive regulatory action by revoking the operating licences of Aso Savings and Loans Plc & Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc, two mortgage finance institutions that have struggled with prolonged financial and regulatory challenges. What Happened? On Monday, December 15, 2025, CBN withdrew the licences of both institutions — effectively shutting down their ability to operate as licensed primary mortgage banks in Nigeria. The move is part of the apex bank’s broader enforcement of prudential standards and its efforts to shore up confidence in the financial system. Reasons for Licences Revocation According…

A Federal High Court in Lagos has struck out a lawsuit challenging the legality of the statutes establishing the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), ruling that the claimant did not demonstrate any violation of constitutional provisions in the establishment or functioning of the two bodies. Delivering judgment, Justice Akintayo Aluko ruled that the applicant did not adduce credible or convincing evidence to show that the establishment and functioning of the two commissions violated any provision of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Background of the Suit The suit was instituted by Human Rights…

Commercial banks across Nigeria, including Fidelity Bank and Ecobank, have issued urgent warnings to customers that bank accounts not linked to a Tax Identification Number (Tax ID), or National Identity Number (NIN), may face transaction restrictions starting January 1, 2026. The advisory follows the federal government’s new tax reforms and is aimed at ensuring compliance ahead of the implementation of the 2025 tax laws. Banks Urge Customers to Link Accounts to NIN or Tax ID In separate notices to customers, banks emphasized that the new tax laws require all bank accounts to be linked to a Tax ID before the…

Here are the six major stories shaping Nigeria today — developments spanning governance, the economy, education, security, culture, and national identity. From rising tensions in the oil and gas sector involving Africa’s richest man and the country’s regulators, to fresh pressure on the naira in the foreign exchange market, today’s headlines reflect the challenges and opportunities facing our dear nation. We also bring you updates on international education opportunities for Nigerian students, renewed efforts to combat migrant smuggling, global recognition for Nigerian excellence, and a call for self-reliance from a former top government official. Stay with us as we take…

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in Osun State has disowned a purported factional Accord Party governorship primary, saying it was not notified of any such exercise following reports of a parallel primary held on Sunday in Osogbo, the state capital. The disputed primary reportedly saw Bamigbola Clement announced as the faction’s governorship candidate for the August 8, 2026 election. Bamigbola, presented as the sole aspirant, claimed he emerged through a consensus process. However, INEC’s Osun State Public Relations Officer, Musa Olurode, clarified that the commission had no knowledge of this exercise. “We monitored the Accord Party primary held a…

The Federal Government on Sunday announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3), in both public and private secondary schools across Nigeria. The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release dated December 14, 2025, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade. Policy Targets Rising Exam Malpractice The ministry stated that the decision follows “growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations.” It added that such practices “undermine the integrity…

The United States has imposed sanctions on four individuals and four entities accused of supporting Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), targeting what officials described as a transnational network helping to fuel the country’s ongoing civil war. In a statement released Tuesday, the U.S. government said the sanctioned individuals and companies—primarily Colombian nationals and firms—have recruited former Colombian military personnel to fight alongside the RSF and provided training to fighters, including children. U.S. officials said the measures are intended to cut off a key source of external support to the RSF and limit its ability to carry out violence against…

The recent decision by Dangote Refinery to reduce its petrol gantry (ex-depot), price has been widely welcomed by Nigerians grappling with high fuel costs. Towards the close of last week, the refinery slashed its petrol price to N699 per litre, igniting public optimism that sustained relief may finally be in sight. However, petroleum economist and energy policy expert, Prof. Wumi Iledare, has advised Nigerians not to celebrate prematurely, warning that the price cut could mask deeper structural risks in the downstream petroleum sector. Iledare Reacts: Beyond the Headlines Iledare disclosed his concerns on Friday while reacting to the Dangote Refinery’s…