As of the evening of January 15, 2025, here are the latest news updates from Nigerian newspapers:
1. Armed Forces Remembrance Day Commemorated Nationwide: Nigeria observed Armed Forces Remembrance Day today, honoring the sacrifices of military personnel in service to the nation. Ceremonies were held across the country, with President Bola Tinubu leading the wreath-laying at the National Cenotaph in Abuja. The day also marked the 55th anniversary of the end of the Nigerian Civil War, reflecting on the importance of unity and peace.
2. NWFL Premiership Kicks Off 2024–25 Season: The Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership commenced its 2024–25 season today. Edo Queens, the defending champions, secured a commanding 5–0 victory over Abia Angels in the opening match. The season features 16 teams competing for the title, with matches scheduled across various venues nationwide.
Â
3. Naira Depreciates Further Against the Dollar: The Nigerian Naira experienced a depreciation, trading at N1,541.36 per US dollar in the official foreign exchange market on the first trading day of 2025. This represents a 0.36% decline from the previous closing rate of N1,535.82. In the parallel market, the Naira appreciated slightly, closing at N1,655 per dollar, an improvement from N1,670.
4. President Tinubu’s New Year Address Focuses on Economic Reforms: In his New Year message, President Bola Tinubu outlined plans to boost food production and reduce inflation to 15% in 2025. He highlighted economic growth indicators, including lower fuel prices and a stronger Naira, as signs of progress. The President emphasized efforts to lower the cost of food and essential drugs through reforms aimed at boosting local production.
5. US to Return $52.8 Million Linked to Former Oil Minister: The United States has agreed to repatriate $52.88 million in assets linked to Nigeria’s former oil minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke. These funds, confiscated in 2023, will be allocated to rural electrification projects in Nigeria, with $2.88 million supporting the International Institute for Justice’s rule of law and counterterrorism efforts. Alison-Madueke, who served as the first female president of OPEC from 2010 to 2015, denies any wrongdoing.
6. Nigeria and China Strengthen Bilateral Relations: Nigeria and China have pledged to deepen their cooperation in areas including clean energy, defense, and finance. During a visit by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, discussions included support for Nigeria’s issuance of Panda bonds to fund infrastructure and collaboration on regional security challenges. Both nations aim to elevate their relationship to a “comprehensive strategic partnership.”
7. Nigeria Mandates Low Carbon Emissions for Oil Licence Applicants: Effective January 1, 2025, Nigeria requires oil licence and permit applicants to demonstrate low carbon emissions and the inclusion of renewable energy programs. This initiative, introduced by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, aligns with the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2060. Applicants must implement methane management strategies and integrate renewable energy into their projects.
8. ECOWAS Approves Exit Timeline for Coup-Hit Member States: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has approved a transitional timeline for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, which decided to leave the bloc earlier this year. The transition period is set from January 29, 2025, to July 29, 2025. This exit poses challenges for ECOWAS, potentially affecting visa-free movement and regional stability.
9. At Least 40 Farmers Killed by Boko Haram Militants in Northeast Nigeria: At least 40 farmers were killed by suspected Boko Haram militants in Nigeria’s Borno state. The attack, which occurred in Dumba community, is believed to have been executed by Boko Haram and its breakaway faction, which supports the Islamic State group. Governor Zulum has advised civilians to stay in designated “safe zones” cleared by the military and has called for a thorough investigation and decisive action against the perpetrators.
10. National Grid Experiences First Collapse of 2025: Nigeria’s national power grid suffered its first major collapse of the year, leading to a nationwide blackout. This incident marks the 13th collapse in the past 13 months. Power generation plummeted from 2,111.01 megawatts at 2 pm to 390.20 MW by 3 pm. Restoration efforts have commenced, with generation reported at 302 MW as of 2:40 pm.
