Here are the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today, January 15, 2025:
1. PDP Chieftain Criticizes President Tinubu’s Leadership Style
Segun Sowunmi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has criticized President Bola Tinubu for centralizing decision-making and limiting the effectiveness of his appointees. Sowunmi argues that Tinubu’s approach hinders the performance of key officials, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila.
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2. Senate Adjourns Plenary for 2025 Budget Defense
The Nigerian Senate has adjourned plenary sessions for two weeks to allow lawmakers to focus on the 2025 budget defense by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the importance of the budget as a catalyst for development and announced plans to address electoral reform upon resumption.
3. CBN Fines Banks Over ATM Cash Shortages
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has imposed a total fine of ₦1.35 billion on nine Deposit Money Banks for failing to ensure the availability of naira notes in ATMs during the holiday season. Each bank was fined ₦150 million for not adhering to cash distribution regulations.
4. President Tinubu Pledges Economic Reforms in New Year Message
In his New Year address, President Bola Tinubu promised to boost food production and reduce inflation to 15% in 2025. He highlighted positive economic indicators, including lower fuel prices and a stronger naira, and announced plans to establish the National Credit Guarantee Company to enhance access to credit.
5. House of Representatives Committee Advocates Increased Defense Budget
The House of Representatives Committee on Defense has proposed increasing the Ministry of Defense’s budget from ₦50 billion to better address security challenges in the country. This follows commendations for the military’s efforts in combating insecurity.
6. Naira Depreciates Further in Parallel Market
The Nigerian naira has depreciated to ₦1,660 per US dollar in the parallel market, down from ₦1,655 the previous day. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s data indicates a slight appreciation in the official exchange rate, highlighting ongoing volatility in the currency market.
7. Nigeria Customs Service Reports Significant Increase in Seizures
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) reported 3,555 seizures in 2024, with the Duty Paid Value increasing by over 100% to ₦35.29 billion compared to the previous year. Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi attributed the success to enhanced enforcement and compliance measures.
8. Former Sokoto Governor Bafarawa Resigns from PDP
Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, former Governor of Sokoto State, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a letter dated January 13, 2025, Bafarawa did not specify reasons for his departure, raising speculation about his future political plans.
9. House of Representatives to Investigate Hepatitis Spread
The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the spread of hepatitis in Nigeria and called for increased public awareness to control the virus. This decision follows a motion highlighting the health risks posed by the disease.
10. Fatal Auto Crash in Kogi State
An auto accident involving an articulated vehicle in Kogi State resulted in six fatalities and 60 injuries. The Federal Road Safety Corps attributed the crash to excessive speed and has urged motorists to adhere to speed limits to prevent such tragedies
