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Echoes from the Highway:
Voices of Zamfara’s Survivors
The blast on the Magami–Dansadau highway was more than an explosion, it was a rupture in the lives of ordinary people.
Survivors speak of the moment as if time itself split in two: before the deafening roar, and after, when silence was filled with screams and dust.
A Tragic Afternoon on Zamfara’s Highway
On
December 27, 2025, the usually busy Magami–Dansadau highway in Maru Local
Government Area of Zamfara State became the stage of a devastating tragedy.
Around the Yar-gada community, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated, shattering the calm of the afternoon and leaving behind scenes of chaos and grief. Witnesses described the sudden blast as deafening, followed by clouds of dust and cries of panic as travelers scrambled for safety.
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The Legend of the White-Robed Spirits: A Rekindling of Culture
Long ago,
in the bustling land by the lagoon, the people of Lagos carried within them a
sacred tradition, the Eyo Festival, known as the Adamu Orisha Play.
It was
said that when the white-robed spirits, the Eyo masqueraders, marched
through the streets with their staffs called opambata, the city itself
breathed with ancestral power.
Their presence was not mere pageantry; it was a living bond between the past and the present, a reminder that the Yoruba heritage was eternal.
A Great Rekindling of Our Culture: Tinubu Celebrates Eyo Festival
In the
heart of Lagos, beneath the grandeur of Tafawa Balewa Square, a sea of
white-robed figures carrying long staffs known as opambata filled the
streets with chants, dances, and timeless Yoruba rhythms.
It was the grand return of the Eyo Festival, a cultural spectacle that had been absent for eight years, now revived in 2025 with a flourish that echoed both history and heritage.
Condoms and the Human Attitude: An Editorial Reflection
Condoms, though small and simple in design, carry immense weight in the story of human health, intimacy, and responsibility. They are not merely latex barriers; they symbolize a negotiation between pleasure and protection, between personal freedom and collective responsibility.
The human attitude toward condoms has always been complex, shaped by cultural norms, religious beliefs, gender dynamics, and the tension between desire and caution.
The Alarming Tale of Fake Kiss Condoms in Nigeria
In late
2024, a troubling story began to unfold across Nigeria’s bustling markets. The
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) raised an
urgent alarm: counterfeit Kiss Condoms were spreading widely, infiltrating
stalls and shops from Lagos to Kano, Abuja to Enugu.
What seemed at first like a quiet whisper of suspicion quickly grew into a nationwide concern, as the agency confirmed that these fake products were not only circulating but were being sold in large quantities.
Special Report: January 1 Implementation Date for Tax Laws Is Sacrosanct, Oyedele Insists
The
Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed that the commencement of new tax
laws on January 1, 2026, is non-negotiable, with Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the
Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, stressing that the
date remains sacrosanct despite controversies.
In a decisive statement following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, Taiwo Oyedele emphasized that the reforms embedded in the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act will begin on schedule. He explained that the reforms are not designed to raise quick revenue but to stimulate economic growth, ensure fairness, and provide relief to the majority of Nigerians.
Special Report: Mixed Reactions Trail U.S. Strikes in Nigeria
Summary: The recent U.S. airstrikes in
northwestern Nigeria have sparked a wave of mixed emotions across the country,
ranging from cautious support to deep concern. While some citizens welcome the
intervention as a step toward stability, others fear it may worsen insecurity
and undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.
On
December 25, 2025, the United States launched targeted airstrikes in Sokoto
State, northwestern Nigeria, against militants allegedly linked to the Islamic
State.
The strikes, which occurred in villages such as Jabo and Tangaza, surprised residents who initially feared they were under attack by local armed groups.
Special Report: Nigeria’s Recent Joint Strikes with the United States on Terrorists
Nigeria and the United States have recently carried out coordinated
precision airstrikes against ISIS-linked terrorist elements in Northwest
Nigeria, marking a significant escalation in counterterrorism cooperation
between the two nations.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with the U.S. military, executed the strikes following credible intelligence that identified foreign ISIS-linked operatives entrenched in the region.
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Nigeria’s Social Media Trends: Cryptocurrency Discussions and the Pulse of a Vibrant Digital Economy
Nigeria’s
digital economy has become one of the most dynamic in Africa, and nowhere is
this more evident than in the country’s social media spaces.
Platforms
like Twitter (now X), Instagram, and TikTok have evolved into more than just
hubs for entertainment and political discourse; they are now marketplaces of
ideas, financial experimentation, and digital innovation.
Among the most prominent conversations dominating these platforms are discussions around cryptocurrency, a phenomenon that reflects both Nigeria’s economic challenges and its entrepreneurial spirit.
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Nigeria’s Social Media Trends: The Labubu Dolls Phenomenon
Labubu dolls, once obscure art
collectibles, have transformed into Nigeria’s most unexpected viral status
symbol, blending pop culture, fashion, and social media spectacle.
In
mid-2025, Nigeria’s digital landscape was swept by an unusual craze: the rise
of Labubu dolls.
Originally created by Hong Kong–born artist Kasing Lung as part of his Nordic-inspired picture book series The Monsters, Labubu was a quirky, toothy elf-like character that gained cult popularity through Pop Mart’s blind-box toy releases.
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Nigeria’s Social Media Trends: The Achalugo Nickname Craze
The Achalugo phenomenon has become one of Nigeria’s most defining social
media trends in 2025, blending cultural heritage with digital humor and
reshaping online identity.
The
nickname “Achalugo,” which translates loosely from Igbo as “precious jewel” or
“something cherished,” exploded across Nigeria’s digital platforms after being
popularized by the YouTube film Love in Every Word.
What began as a romantic endearment quickly transformed into a viral cultural symbol. Social media users embraced the term not only as a nickname but as a playful badge of identity, weaving it into memes, TikTok skits, and even music.
Football Fever: The Passion of Nigerian Fans
Football
in Nigeria is more than a sport; it is a cultural heartbeat that unites
millions across diverse backgrounds.
The fever
runs deep, manifesting in the electrifying atmosphere of local league matches
and the fervent anticipation of international tournaments.
Nigerian fans are not passive spectators, they are active participants whose voices, emotions, and traditions shape the narrative of the game.
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Nigeria: Youth Movements, Governance Debates, and the Weight of Economic Concerns
Nigeria’s
political landscape today is defined by the vibrancy of its youth and the
urgency of its economic challenges. With a population where more than half are
under the age of 30, the country’s future is being shaped by young voices
demanding accountability, transparency, and reform.
The 2023 general elections marked a watershed moment: youth participation surged to unprecedented levels, accounting for over a third of registered voters, signaling a generational shift in political engagement.
Nollywood & Celebrity Drama: Viral Skits, Scandals, and the Debate on Global Reach
Nollywood’s digital transformation has turned short
viral skits and celebrity scandals into cultural exports, fueling debates about
whether the industry’s global reach is being defined more by controversy than
by cinema.
In recent
years, Nollywood has undergone a striking metamorphosis. Once known primarily
for its prolific film production, the industry now finds itself at the center
of a new cultural economy driven by viral skits and online celebrity drama.
These short, sharp bursts of humor, crafted for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, have become the heartbeat of Nigerian entertainment. They capture everyday struggles, social quirks, and political satire in ways that resonate instantly with audiences. This “skit economy,” as it is popularly called, has not only created livelihoods for young Nigerians but also reshaped Nollywood’s identity.
Afrobeats: Nigeria’s Global Soundtrack of Dominance
Afrobeats
has become more than a genre; it is now a cultural movement that defines the
soundscape of global music.
What
began as a fusion of West African rhythms, highlife, and hip-hop in Lagos has
evolved into a commanding force on international stages.
In 2025, Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr have not only trended heavily but have cemented their place as global icons, shaping festivals, award ceremonies, and even sporting events across continents.
-BY The SEB Team-
Solomon
Etuk’s Blog: A New Dawn in 2026
As the
calendar turns to 2026, Solomon Etuk’s Blog (SEB) stands at the threshold of an
exciting new chapter, ready to deepen its bond with its cherished audience and
expand the horizons of what a digital platform can offer.
Over the years, SEB has grown into more than just a blog, it has become a trusted companion, a source of inspiration, and a vibrant community for readers who crave knowledge, creativity, and meaningful engagement.
Photo: Channels Television
Kano Assembly Loses Two Lawmakers in One Day
In an unprecedented tragedy, the Kano State House of Assembly was thrown into mourning on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, following the sudden deaths of two serving lawmakers within hours of each other.
The loss of Hon. Aminu Sa’adu
Ungogo and Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji has left the state’s political landscape
shaken and its citizens in deep grief.
The first death occurred when Hon. Aminu Sa’adu Ungogo, representing the Ungogo Constituency and serving as Chairman of the House Appropriation Committee, fell ill shortly after arriving at the Assembly. He was rushed to a hospital where doctors later confirmed his passing.
Barely an hour later, news broke of the death of Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, the representative of Kano Municipal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Pilgrims. His demise was officially announced by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, spokesperson to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
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As Nigerians Celebrate Christmas, Tinubu, Governors, Clerics, and Leaders Advocate Peace and Love
On December 25, 2025, Nigerians across
the country marked Christmas with messages of hope, unity, and love from
President Bola Tinubu, state governors, clerics, and other leaders. Their
collective emphasis was on peace, tolerance, and resilience amid the nation’s
challenges, reinforcing the spirit of Christmas as a time for reflection and
solidarity.
Christmas in Nigeria was celebrated with widespread joy, but also with sober reflection on the country’s pressing issues.
Military Authority Blames Boko Haram Suicide Bomber for Maiduguri Mosque Blast
Bold Summary: Security authorities in Maiduguri,
Borno State, say a suspected Boko Haram-linked suicide bomber detonated
explosives inside a mosque during evening prayers on 24 December 2025, killing
between five and seven people and wounding dozens; investigations are ongoing
and residents are urged to remain vigilant.
Incident Overview
On the evening of 24 December 2025, an explosion tore through a mosque in the Gamboru/Gambarou area of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, during Maghrib (evening) prayers. Eyewitnesses reported the blast occurred as worshippers were gathered for the first raka’at, producing immediate casualties and panic in a part of the city that has seen intermittent violence over the years. Local reporting and security sources describe the event as a sudden detonation inside the prayer hall rather than an external strike.
Bomb Blast at Maiduguri Mosque Leaves Many Feared Dead, Others Injured on Eve of Christmas
A powerful explosion tore through a mosque in Gamboru Ward, Maiduguri, Borno State, on the evening of 24 December 2025 during Maghrib prayers; eyewitnesses reported immediate panic and heavy damage, and local authorities later confirmed fatalities and dozens of injuries.
Christmas 2025 is being observed today across Nigeria and the world with a mix of solemn worship, family gatherings, and public festivities; in Abuja many Christians attend midnight or morning services while cities worldwide mark the day with lights, markets, and local customs.
Special Report: Christmas Today
Christmas remains primarily a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25 by the majority of Western churches and by many communities globally, though the date and emphasis vary by tradition and region. The season now blends liturgical observance with cultural practices that range from quiet prayer to large-scale public celebrations.
If I were Nigeria's President, at this time this would be be my state of the nation address:
A New Covenant for Nigeria - Address to the Nation
Fellow Nigerians, I speak to you today with humility and resolve. The year that has passed tested our patience, stretched our compassion, and revealed both the strength and the fragility of our national fabric. I acknowledge the grief of those who lost loved ones, the anxiety of families displaced by floods and insecurity, and the quiet courage of citizens who, in small and large ways, kept our communities alive. We owe them our deepest gratitude and our firmest commitment.
BY SOLOMON
ETUK
A Year of
Reckoning and Reflection: Nigeria’s 2025 in Review
Outgoing
year 2025 can be characterized as a year that forced Nigeria to confront its
systemic fragilities while also revealing the resilience of its people. The arc
from the Niger tanker explosion in January to the sacking of the NMDPRA boss in
December is not just a chronological sweep, it’s a symbolic journey through the
country’s most pressing challenges and its attempts at reform.
The Suleja tragedy in January was more than a horrific accident, it was a mirror held up to our regulatory failures, infrastructural decay, and the desperation that drives citizens to risk their lives for fuel. That explosion, which claimed over a hundred lives, was a national trauma that demanded accountability. Yet, it took nearly a full year before the government made a decisive move by removing the head of the regulatory agency tasked with overseeing petroleum safety. That delay speaks volumes about the inertia within our institutions.
From Niger Tanker Explosion in January to Sack of NMDPRA Boss in December: The Biggest Events That Shaped Each Month in 2025
Nigeria’s
2025 was a year defined by tragedy, political upheaval, and institutional
shake-ups. From the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State that
opened the year to the dramatic dismissal of the Nigerian Midstream and
Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) boss that closed it, each
month carried events that shaped the nation’s discourse and direction.
January began with horror as a petrol tanker overturned near Suleja, Niger State, spilling thousands of liters of fuel. Local residents rushed to scoop petrol, but a generator used during transloading sparked an inferno. The explosion killed over 100 people and injured dozens more, leaving charred remains and a community in mourning. The tragedy prompted immediate calls for stricter regulation of petroleum transport, with the Minister of Petroleum Resources directing NMDPRA to investigatenewtelegraphng.com.
A Tumultuous Week of Global Headlines, December 19–24, 2025
The week spanning December 19 to December 24, 2025, was marked by a series of dramatic developments across continents, underscoring the volatility of global politics, security, and social change.
From legislative milestones to violent unrest, the period reflected both the fragility and resilience of nations navigating complex challenges.
In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu formally notified the National Assembly of his intention to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill. His letter, read by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, confirmed that the budget presentation would take place on December 19 at 2:00 p.m.
Nothing Has Come Out Of Subsidy Removal Except Poverty, Inflation, Insecurity - Dalung
On
December 18, 2025, former Minister of Sports Solomon Dalung voiced a scathing
critique of the Nigerian government’s decision to remove fuel subsidies.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Dalung argued that the policy, which was expected to usher in economic relief and improved living standards, has instead deepened the country’s socio-economic woes.
FG Announces Reopening of 47 Unity Schools Weeks After Closure Over Insecurity
In a
significant development for Nigeria’s education sector, the Federal Government
has officially announced the reopening of 47 Unity Schools that were previously
shut down due to heightened insecurity across several regions.
This
decision, disclosed by the Federal Ministry of Education on December 18, 2025,
marks a turning point in the government’s efforts to safeguard students while
ensuring continuity in academic activities.
The
Ministry explained that the reopening followed the strengthening of security
architecture within and around the affected schools. According to the statement
signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, students
have safely returned to their campuses, with many concluding their December
academic programmes and others successfully completing examinations.
The
government emphasized that the welfare, safety, and well-being of students
remain a top priority, reaffirming its commitment to protect every Nigerian
child and uphold their fundamental right to education in a secure environment.
This
reopening comes just weeks after the Federal Government ordered the closure of
41 Unity Colleges on November 21, 2025, in response to rising security threats,
including mass abductions of schoolchildren.
The
closures affected schools across the North-West, North-East, North-Central, and
parts of the South, with incidents such as the abduction of over 300 pupils and
teachers in Niger State and the kidnapping of more than 20 schoolgirls in Kebbi
State underscoring the severity of the crisis.
President
Bola Tinubu had directed urgent measures to address the escalating threats, including
deploying the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to Kebbi State to
oversee rescue operations. His administration postponed international trips to
focus on restoring stability.
The
reopening of the 47 schools is therefore seen as a demonstration of the
government’s resolve to keep learning on track despite prevailing challenges.
The
Ministry highlighted that the safe return of students and the successful
conduct of examinations in several Unity Colleges reflect the resilience of
Nigeria’s education system and the government’s determination to prevent
disruptions to the academic calendar. It also reiterated that education remains
a critical pillar for national growth and development, with human capital
development at the core of the administration’s agenda.
This reopening is not only a relief for parents and guardians but also a symbolic reassurance that Nigeria’s education sector can withstand adversity.
While
insecurity remains a pressing concern, the government’s actions signal a renewed
commitment to protecting schools and ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge
continues uninterrupted.
The
reopening of 47 Unity Schools after weeks of closure due to insecurity
represents a cautious but hopeful step forward. It underscores the Federal
Government’s balancing act between addressing national security challenges and
safeguarding the future of its young citizens through uninterrupted education.
The move is both a response to immediate threats and a reaffirmation of
education as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s long-term development strategy.
Special Report: Air Travel in Nigeria - One of the Cheapest Globally
Air
travel in Nigeria has recently become the subject of intense public debate,
with allegations of airfare hikes sparking widespread concern among passengers.
However, airline operators, represented by Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman and CEO of United Airlines Limited and spokesperson for the Airline Operators of Nigeria, have strongly defended the industry, insisting that domestic air travel within Nigeria remains among the cheapest in the world.
NAFDAC Destroys Over ₦55 Billion Worth of Fake and Substandard Drugs in Ibadan
In a
decisive move to safeguard public health, the National Agency for Food and Drug
Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed counterfeit, substandard,
expired, and unwholesome pharmaceutical products valued at over ₦55 billion in
Ibadan, Oyo State.
The destruction exercise, conducted in December 2025, was part of the agency’s statutory mandate to rid Nigeria’s supply chain of unsafe medical products and prevent them from re-entering circulation.
Babajide Kolade-Otitoju - A Career Defined by Integrity and Excellence
In the
ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian journalism, few names resonate with the
same authority and respect as Babajide Kolade-Otitoju. His recent
appointment as Director of News at TVC Communications is not merely a personal
triumph but a symbolic moment for the media industry, reflecting decades of
dedication to truth, professionalism, and the public good.
Otitoju’s career has been marked by an unwavering commitment to investigative journalism. Known for his courage and integrity, he has consistently pursued stories that challenge power structures and illuminate issues of national importance. His work has earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most trusted voices in media, a reputation built on years of meticulous reporting and fearless commentary.
Gov AbdulRazaq Celebrates TVC’s Prestigious Award and Otitoju’s Appointment
In a
moment of pride for Nigeria’s media industry, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman
AbdulRazaq has publicly celebrated TVC Communications following its recognition
as the Television Station of the Year at the 2025 edition of the Nigeria
Media Merit Awards (NMMA).
The Governor described the award as a testament to TVC’s longstanding culture of excellence, professionalism, and ethical broadcasting. He emphasized that the NMMA continues to stand out as a national platform that acknowledges journalistic works advancing the public good, while also commending other recipients honored at both individual and corporate levels.
Gov Abiodun Congratulates Babajide Kolade-Otitoju on Appointment as TVC Director of News
In a
landmark moment for Nigerian broadcast journalism, Ogun State Governor, Dapo
Abiodun, has extended warm congratulations to veteran journalist and
broadcaster, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, following his appointment as Director of
News at Television Continental (TVC).
The announcement, made on December 18, 2025, was accompanied by a glowing tribute from the governor, who described the appointment as both well-deserved and reflective of Otitoju’s immense contributions to the growth and success of TVC as one of Nigeria’s leading media organisations.
