Senate President Godswill Akpabio has characterized President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms—such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates—as essential, albeit challenging, steps toward long-term national sustainability. In a statement marking the President’s third anniversary, Akpabio lauded the administration’s leadership and the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” noting that these initiatives are actively reshaping Nigeria’s economic prospects.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Highlighting the administration’s progress, Akpabio pointed to several flagship projects as evidence of its commitment to reform:

• The implementation of the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme and the Renewed Hope Housing Programme.

• Infrastructure advancements, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and the completion of the OB3 gas pipeline.

• Efforts to mitigate energy costs through the rollout of compressed natural gas (CNG) buses and conversion centers.

• Ongoing tax reform initiatives.

Akpabio praised President Tinubu for prioritizing the country’s future prosperity over immediate convenience, citing his courage in the face of global economic challenges. Furthermore, he reaffirmed that the 10th National Assembly remains dedicated to providing the legislative support necessary to sustain these reforms, while also expressing optimism regarding the success of the President’s tenure and his prospects in upcoming elections.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has officially proposed a new national minimum wage of ₦100,000. This stance aims to address the financial strain on workers caused by the rising cost of living, with state governments currently working alongside the federal government and labor unions to finalize a sustainable agreement. Furthermore, the governors have expressed their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

While the current legislated minimum wage stands at ₦70,000, several states—notably Lagos, Rivers, and Imo—have already surpassed this threshold. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), led by Joe Ajaero, is pressing the Federal Government for an immediate salary review in the new year. Reflecting on the economic hardships experienced throughout 2025, Ajaero emphasized that current earnings are insufficient, demanding a “living wage” that allows workers to thrive rather than just survive. The NLC has committed to using all available legitimate avenues to secure this increase in response to persistent inflation and national economic distress.

The Nigerian Army has officially declared as illegal a directive from the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), which had ordered churches in the South-East and parts of the South-South to conduct memorial services for civil war victims.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Key aspects of the military’s response, as articulated by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, include:

• Established National Observances: The Army emphasized that there are already federal government-sanctioned occasions for honoring fallen heroes, such as the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Nigerian Army Day, and Independence Day.

• Motivation for the Directive: The military stated that MASSOB and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) are attempting to use the memorial event as a means to sow division and incite chaos within the region.

• Warning Against Compliance: The directive was labeled “illegal and provocative”. The Army strongly advised clerics, youths, and citizens to avoid participating in these plans, warning that any individual or group found disrupting public peace or religious activities will face strict legal sanctions.

• Reassurance of Security: The Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies remain dedicated to protecting lives and property across the South-East. The Army urged the public to continue their daily activities and business operations without fear of intimidation.

While acknowledging the deep sacrifices made during the civil war and expressing empathy for the families affected, the Army maintained that true honor is found through national unity and lawful remembrance, rather than through activities outside the legal framework of national commemorations.

Source:

• Provided text detailing the Nigerian Army’s statement on the MASSOB directive.