Africa/Nigeria · page 15 RSS

Yahaya Bello asserts confidence ahead of 2027 Kogi Central Senate race

Former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello has declared he expects a large vote share and a decisive win over incumbent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in the 2027 senatorial contest, while both candidates cite a history of political tension.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 23:49 WAT · 2 sources

Deputy governor’s convoy blocked by youths in Zamfara amid security concerns

During a condolence visit to Gwashi community in Bukkuyum LGA, Deputy Governor Malam Mani Mummuni was booed and his convoy was blocked by angry youths who cited ongoing bandit attacks and a perceived lack of government action.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 23:46 WAT · 2 sources

Abubakar Kabir Bichi’s Role as Appropriation Committee Chair Highlights Kano’s Influence in Parliament

Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, representing Bichi Federal Constituency, serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, a position historically held by Kano legislators three times before his tenure, underscoring the state’s parliamentary weight.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 23:45 WAT · 2 sources

Former El‑Rufai Ally Leads Mass Defection of ADC Members to APC in Kaduna

Muhammad Sa’idu, a former finance commissioner and ex‑chief of staff to Nasir El‑Rufai, announced that more than 200,000 African Democratic Congress members have joined the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna, prompting the state governor to raise the APC’s 2027 vote target.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 23:45 WAT · 3 sources

Ogun police detain 56‑year‑old in suspected arson that killed his wife

The Ogun State Police Command has taken Madarikan Emehinola into custody after a house fire in the Igbo‑Edu area resulted in the death of his 40‑year‑old wife, Igbagbo Erobe, with investigations now being handed to the State Criminal Investigation Department.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 22:45 WAT · 4 sources

FCT Minister and Rivers Governor Hold Private Reconciliation Talks Ahead of 2027 Elections

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike met Governor Siminalayi Fubara and senior political figures at the governor’s Port Harcourt residence on 18 October 2026, aiming to mend intra‑state rifts and coordinate a unified front for the upcoming 2027 polls.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 22:15 WAT · 4 sources

Kebbi state government disputes UNDP poverty ranking, accuses ADC candidate of politicisation

The Kebbi administration has challenged a United Nations Development Programme report that listed the state among Nigeria’s poorest, claiming the data is outdated and was used by opposition candidate Abubakar Malami to attack Governor Nasir Idris. The government says it has made progress on poverty and security and urges opponents to present solutions rather than statistics.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 21:45 WAT · 3 sources

NSCDC Mining Marshals deny role in Niger miners’ deaths, while former state commandant apologises

The NSCDC Mining Marshals unit has officially rejected claims of involvement in the September 16 incident that led to 37 suspected illegal miners dying in custody in Niger State. Meanwhile, the suspended state commandant has admitted a costly mistake and offered an apology.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 15:46 WAT · 7 sources

Petrol tanker collision sparks fire, destroys buildings in Agbor, Delta State

A petrol tanker that collided with another vehicle on Old Lagos‑Asaba Road in Agbor, Delta State, burst into flames after a brake failure, causing widespread damage to nearby structures and vehicles. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, left several buildings, including a chemist shop, destroyed, while authorities have yet to confirm casualties.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 14:45 WAT · 2 sources

Accord Party doubts Rainbow Coalition’s electoral prospects in Kwara for 2027

The Kwara State chapter of the Accord Party says the Rainbow Coalition lacks grassroots backing and presents contradictory positions, leading it to predict the alliance will not win votes in the 2027 elections. The party attributes the coalition to elite manoeuvring rather than voter appeal.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 14:15 WAT · 3 sources

Borno Governor Blames Scavengers for N3bn Power Line Loss, Imposes Scrap Metal Ban

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum announced that metal scavengers had removed all wires for a N3bn electricity distribution line between Damaturu and Maiduguri, leading to a state‑wide ban on scrap metal trading to safeguard public assets and security.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 13:45 WAT · 2 sources

One injured after partial collapse of five‑storey construction site in Abuja

A five‑storey building under construction partially collapsed on Durban Street in Wuse II, Abuja, on 17 October 2026, leaving one worker with minor injuries. NEMA confirmed no fatalities and that the injured was taken to a nearby hospital.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 12:32 WAT · 2 sources

FRSC Ogun State Sector Commander Oludare Ogunjobi Passes Away After Short Illness

The Federal Road Safety Corps confirmed the death of its Ogun State Sector Commander, Oludare Ogunjobi, following a brief illness, describing his loss as significant for the corps and the wider road‑safety community.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 12:15 WAT · 5 sources

Pope Leo XIV discharged early after lung surgery and resumes public duties

Pope Leo XIV left Rome's Gemelli Hospital four days after lung cancer surgery, made a public prayer appearance the next day, and his surgeon says there are no medical barriers to his scheduled November trip to South America.

Photo: INFOWeather1 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 11:15 WAT · 10 sources

Nollywood actress Tenia Abraham dies aged 32 after kidney infection

Nollywood actress and former beauty queen Tenia Abraham Omenogor passed away on 13 October 2026 at the age of 32 following a prolonged kidney infection. She was laid to rest at Gudu Cemetery in Abuja on 17 October, with family and colleagues paying tribute to her talent and legacy.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 10:15 WAT · 3 sources

Accord Lagos Chair Calls for Clarification on Adeleke’s Role in Tinubu Campaign

Accord’s Lagos chairman, Oladele Oladeji, has written to the party’s national leadership to seek clarity on Gov. Ademola Adeleke’s reported appointment as coordinator of President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 presidential campaign in Osun, raising concerns about the impact on Accord’s political identity and electoral prospects.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 09:15 WAT · 2 sources

Kano troops and hunters kill two suspected kidnappers, recover N10m ransom in Falgore Forest

Nigerian Army forces, police, DSS and local hunters launched an operation in Falgore Forest, Kano State, that neutralised two suspected kidnappers, rescued Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu and recovered a N10 million ransom.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 08:45 WAT · 6 sources

Nigeria sets 7% growth target, aims to outpace IMF forecast

Nigeria's finance minister announced a 7% economic growth goal for 2027, contrasting with the IMF's 4.3% projection, and outlined fiscal measures to curb inflation and stabilise the naira.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 08:45 WAT · 2 sources

Nigeria mourns death of veteran diplomat and journalist Patrick Dele Cole

President Bola Tinubu and national leaders expressed sorrow after the passing of former ambassador and Daily Times chief Patrick Dele Cole, who died in London at 86 following a period of ill health.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 06:15 WAT · 5 sources

Nigeria pushes for Chinese investment as officials stress policy stability ahead of elections

Nigeria’s central bank is courting Chinese investors to broaden financing options while the finance ministry warns markets are already pricing in President Tinubu’s likely second term, linking policy consistency to investor confidence.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 06:15 WAT · 2 sources

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets miss 2027 U‑17 AFCON and World Cup after WAFU‑B exit

The Golden Eaglets were eliminated from the 2026 WAFU‑B U‑17 Championship after a 1‑1 draw with Ivory Coast, leaving them bottom of Group B and ending their chances of qualifying for the 2027 U‑17 AFCON in Morocco and the 2027 FIFA U‑17 World Cup.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 05:15 WAT · 3 sources

Makinde campaign claims victory in 12 states ahead of 2027 presidential election

The Allied Peoples Movement, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced that it expects to defeat President Bola Tinubu in 12 key states in the 2027 election, citing economic hardship and alleged political arrogance by Tinubu's camp.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 04:45 WAT · 2 sources

COAS visits Maiduguri amid parents’ plea over 78 abducted children

The Chief of Army Staff arrived in Maiduguri on 17 October 2026 to meet with troops and address the concerns of parents of 78 children held captive for 155 days since 15 May. The visit follows a postponed protest in Abuja and government commitments to rescue the children.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 03:46 WAT · 2 sources

Two police officers killed as gunmen set Aba police station ablaze

Gunmen attacked the Uratta Police Division in Aba, Abia State, early on Saturday, killing two officers, injuring three people and setting parts of the station and a patrol vehicle on fire. Police officials said the assailants targeted the armoury but left without weapons, and investigations are ongoing.

LAS News Desk · 18 Oct 2026, 01:45 WAT · 5 sources

Enugu Governor removes Keke fees and pushes operating hours to 10pm

Governor Peter Mbah announced the elimination of daily ticket fees for Keke operators and extended their permitted operating time to 10pm, a move welcomed by riders who also voiced support for the governor and President Bola Tinubu.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 23:45 WAT · 2 sources

Kano Governor vows Northern Nigeria will back Tinubu in 2027 election

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared that the North will support President Bola Tinubu’s re‑election in 2027, pledging massive mobilisation from Kano and other northern states. The announcement came at the launch of the Arewa for Asiwaju (A4A) campaign office in Abuja, with Vice‑President Kashim Shettima urging accountability.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 23:15 WAT · 3 sources

Sokoto Court Rejects Former ADC Chairman’s Bid to Reclaim Party Leadership

A Federal High Court in Sokoto dismissed a lawsuit by former African Democratic Congress chairman Umar Faruk, ruling that the court had no jurisdiction over the party’s internal affairs and that the plaintiffs had not exhausted the party’s dispute‑resolution process.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 21:45 WAT · 2 sources

EU commits €20 million to bolster Nigeria’s armed forces amid security challenges

The European Union will deliver €20 million in defence assistance to Nigeria under the European Peace Facility, with a technical team set to visit in November to finalise implementation, officials said on 17 October 2026.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 21:45 WAT · 2 sources

Adams and Iwobi secure crucial wins for Venezia and Fulham

Akor Adams delivered the winning goal for Venezia against Napoli, while Alex Iwobi scored the decisive strike that gave Fulham a 1‑0 victory over Hull City, marking the London club's first Premier League win of the season.

Photo: Timmy96 / Wikimedia Commons · CC0

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 21:15 WAT · 5 sources

DLA summons Taraba candidate after Tinubu endorsement

The Democratic Leadership Alliance has disowned its Taraba governorship candidate, Aboki Bayonga, following his public support for President Bola Tinubu’s second‑term bid, and has called him before its disciplinary committee.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 20:45 WAT · 2 sources

Opposition G‑100 coalition eyes consensus presidential candidate shortly before 2027 vote

Salihu Lukman, convener of the G‑100 pressure group, says Nigeria's opposition parties are working toward a single presidential nominee and may announce it only days or weeks before the 2027 election, despite lingering trust issues.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 20:45 WAT · 5 sources

Nigerian phone traders demand 90‑day pause on new registration fees

The Association of Mobile Phones and Allied Products Traders of Nigeria (AMPATN) has called for a three‑month suspension of the proposed phone registration charges, arguing that the fees could raise device prices and threaten livelihoods across the country.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 20:16 WAT · 2 sources

Gombe aspirant Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh switches from PDP to APC ahead of 2027 polls

Former PDP governorship aspirant Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh has resigned from the party and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress, urging supporters to back APC candidates as Gombe State realigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 20:15 WAT · 2 sources

Sokoto State Council greenlights over N21bn for roads, boreholes and hospital upgrades

The Sokoto State Executive Council approved projects totalling more than N21 billion, covering new and upgraded roads, solar‑powered boreholes and extensive hospital renovations, as announced by Governor Ahmed Aliyu and media director Abubakar Bawa.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 19:43 WAT · 2 sources

Wike links Nigeria’s economic recovery to Tinubu reforms amid political tensions

Federal Capital Territory minister Nyesom Wike argued that sustaining President Tinubu’s reform agenda is essential for Nigeria’s recovery, while former presidential aide Laolu Akande suggested his political survival is tied to the APC’s 2027 election strategy.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 19:15 WAT · 2 sources

ADC Campaign Council Labels Atiku Abubakar a Pan‑Nigerian Candidate Ahead of 2027 Election

The African Democratic Congress presidential campaign council has portrayed its candidate, former vice‑president Atiku Abubakar, as a unifying, detribalised figure and warned that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is fostering sectionalism and economic hardship as the 2027 vote approaches.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 18:15 WAT · 2 sources

Lagos lawyers urge hospitals to stop demanding deposits before emergency care

A group of Lagos lawyers warned health facilities that charging upfront payments for emergency treatment breaches the National Health Act 2014. They called for better financing mechanisms to protect both patients and providers.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 17:46 WAT · 2 sources

Federal Neuro‑Psychiatric Hospital launches probe into nursing student’s death

The Federal Neuro‑Psychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta has opened an investigation after 22‑year‑old nursing student Taiwo Godwin died while being treated for an asthma attack, amid claims that oxygen was not administered.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 17:45 WAT · 2 sources

Dispute emerges over alleged presidential scrutiny of vice‑president’s staff appointments

Former Secretary to the Government Babachir Lawand claims President Buhari delayed and questioned a list of Yemi Osinbajo’s proposed aides, while Osinbajo’s former spokesperson Laolu Akande denies the memo existed and says Buhari supported the vice‑president’s choices.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 17:15 WAT · 4 sources

Davido aide Israel DMW backs Atiku, calls for free vote ahead of 2027 Nigerian election

Logistics manager Israel DMW, a close aide to singer Davido, announced his support for former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar and urged the electoral commission to guarantee a free choice for voters as Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential poll.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 16:16 WAT · 2 sources

CAN President Calls for Hope and Accountability as Nigeria Marks 50‑Year Milestone

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, head of the Christian Association of Nigeria, used the organisation's 50th‑anniversary service to affirm that the country can overcome its challenges, while urging the Church to act as a responsible watchdog for vulnerable citizens and government performance.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 16:16 WAT · 2 sources

Governor Makinde says poverty, not religion, is Nigeria’s chief challenge and calls on Christians to engage in politics

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde told reporters in Abuja that grinding poverty, rather than religious division, is Nigeria’s most pressing issue and urged Christians to overcome political reticence and contribute to national development.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 16:15 WAT · 2 sources

Former Nigeria coach Clemens Westerhof hospitalized with colon cancer in the Netherlands

Clemens Westerhof, the Dutch coach who led Nigeria to its first World Cup, is in critical condition at a hospital in Arnhem after a colon cancer diagnosis. His wife has appealed for prayers and is seeking a transfer to a better-equipped facility in Amsterdam or Germany.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 16:01 WAT · 5 sources

Oyo police recover one‑month‑old baby after alleged sale for N2 million

Oyo State Police Command has rescued a one-month-old baby girl in Ibadan after her mother allegedly sold her for N2 million. Two suspects, including the mother and the health facility owner, have been arrested.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 17:15 WAT · 8 sources

DSS arrests Faisal Maina, son of former pension reform chief, and hands him over to EFCC

The Department of State Services detained Faisal Maina in Abuja after intelligence that he had returned to Nigeria. He is now in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, following a 2021 conviction for money‑laundering linked to his father’s pension scandal.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 12:15 WAT · 4 sources

Oba Moses Ekundayo Bakare of Idogun dies after 24‑hour coma

The traditional ruler of Idogun in Ondo State collapsed on Wednesday, was admitted to hospital and died the following evening. His death follows a 2025 assault incident and a stalled inquiry report.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 09:46 WAT · 2 sources

Enugu State to Disburse N32bn for Long‑standing Gratuity Debts

Enugu State has approved N32 billion to clear gratuity arrears owed to retired civil servants since 2000, with the first N10 billion tranche scheduled for disbursement next week.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 16:17 WAT · 2 sources

Tinubu authorises lifetime pay for retired immigration chiefs as service reforms expand

President Bola Tinubu has authorised lifelong pay for retired Comptrollers‑General and Deputy Comptrollers‑General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, announced by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, alongside promotions, recruitment and digital upgrades.

Photo: Chatham House / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 17:45 WAT · 3 sources

Brent rises to $110 a barrel amid Middle East and Ukraine tensions

Brent crude hit $110 a barrel for the first time since May, driven by fears of further Middle East supply disruptions and doubts over Russian diesel output, while WTI climbed to $101.41. The rise prompted the IEA and US to release additional fuel reserves.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 08:45 WAT · 3 sources

Eight receive eight‑year sentences for thuggery in Bauchi's Unguwar Dim

A Bauchi State court has jailed eight individuals for eight years each for thuggery and public disturbance in Unguwar Dim, with the option of a N370,000 fine.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 16:46 WAT · 2 sources

PSG confirms surgery for Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade after fibula fracture

Paris Saint-Germain Féminine has confirmed that Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade will undergo surgery for a fibula fracture sustained during a match against Comoros in the 2028 Olympic Games qualifying round.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 17:15 WAT · 2 sources

Femi Adebayo reveals star‑packed cast for Jagun Jagun 2, Netflix to launch Dec. 4

The sequel to the 2023 epic Jagun Jagun: The Warrior will stream on Netflix on 4 December. Adebayo’s cast announcement includes Funke Akindele, Fuji musicians KWAM 1 and Pasuma, and returning stars such as Lateef Adedimeji and Bimbo Ademoye.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 06:45 WAT · 2 sources

Abuja Women’s Centre Adds First Wheelchair Ramp After 34 Years

The Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development in Abuja has installed its first wheelchair-accessible ramp, funded by contractors as a corporate social responsibility initiative. The facility plans to establish a new Disability Directorate led by a visually impaired staff member.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 17:46 WAT · 2 sources

Nigeria's First Lady Calls for State‑Level Community Food Banks Amid Nationwide Food Outreach Expansion

Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called on state governors to establish community food banks in all senatorial districts. Katsina State became the 30th beneficiary of the Renewed Hope Initiative's food outreach scheme.

LAS News Desk · 24 Oct 2026, 17:51 WAT · 2 sources

Five suspects detained in joint operation after NYSC mass kidnapping in Imo State

Security forces from the DSS, military and police arrested five alleged gang members linked to the October 1 abduction of 20 NYSC trainees in Imo, while three others fled with gunshot wounds, prompting a continued manhunt.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 04:45 WAT · 8 sources

Federal High Court upholds UBA's receiver appointment in N156bn Stallion Group debt case

The Lagos Federal High Court confirmed United Bank for Africa's right to enforce mortgage securities and appointed a receiver to recover an alleged N156.03 billion owed by the Stallion Group, also restricting the conglomerate from diverting government payments.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 04:15 WAT · 2 sources

Kwankwasiyya supporters rally in Kano over NDC candidate’s exclusion from INEC list

Supporters of the Kwankwasiyya Movement marched to the Kano INEC office on 16 October, demanding the reinstatement of NDC governorship candidate Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo and filing a petition before the October 24 appeal deadline.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 03:15 WAT · 7 sources

Ukraine lifts US‑backed pause on Russian oil refinery attacks, sparking Trump criticism

Ukraine announced it will restart strikes on Russian oil refineries after a three‑day halt requested by the United States, prompting President Donald Trump to denounce the move as a disgrace amid rising fuel prices and upcoming US midterm elections.

LAS News Desk · 17 Oct 2026, 00:15 WAT · 8 sources

Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde Blames NLNG Dividend Delay for State Development Setbacks

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has criticised the Nigerian government for withholding the ₦250 billion share of Nigeria LNG dividends that each state is entitled to, arguing that the delay has stalled infrastructure projects and hindered economic growth across the federation.

LAS News Desk · 16 Oct 2026, 22:46 WAT · 2 sources