SEB BLOG NOTES | AT THIS TIME

-SEB BLOG NOTES-

Nigeria Today: From Politics to Pop Culture, Headlines with Depth

-Abuja-

Across Nigeria’s digital news landscape, today's headlines reflect a nation caught between turbulence and transformation. From presidential appointments to Nollywood reunions, here's a curated breakdown of key stories, and the perspectives that help decode them.

Political Underpinnings: Appointments, Defections & National Narratives

The political pulse remains high as President Bola Tinubu appoints the son of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida as the new head of the Bank of Agriculture. While supporters hail it as a nod to expertise and legacy, critics question the recycling of political elites.

Meanwhile, two senators recently defected from the PDP, mere months after endorsing Tinubu's second term. The timing hints at shifting allegiances ahead of the 2027 elections, reinforcing power dynamics in Nigeria’s political theater.

In an unexpected gesture, the Federal Government declared July 15 as a public holiday to honor late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 82. While some view it as a commemorative act, others see it as an attempt to cement historical legacy.

SEB SOCIAL | AT THIS TIME

-SEB SOCIAL-

The Pulse of Social Media: Nigeria & Global Trends at this Time

From political twists in Abuja to viral dance moves sweeping Johannesburg and Jakarta, social media continues to shape conversations and culture. This month, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) are serving up a mix of protest, pride, memes, and AI-powered creativity. Here’s a deep dive into what’s trending now, and why it matters.

Nigeria: Activism, Afrobeat & Social Buzz

Pop Culture and Viral Moments

Nigerian youth are rewriting the rules of digital engagement, with trending phrases like “No Gree For Anybody” asserting a bold self-assured attitude across TikTok and X. Dance challenges like Shallipopi’s Pluto Moves have turned streets, churches, and weddings into mini performance stages, while the nostalgic Koroba hairstyle has made a fashion comeback among Gen Z influencers.

International content creators are picking up local phrases too. Kai Cenat’s infamous shout , “Just give me my money!”, has become a meme anthem across Nigeria’s TikTok. Meanwhile, Afrobeats superstar Davido finds his 2015 hit Dodo revived by a new wave of content creators vibing to the track.

TOWARDS 2027 | AT THIS TIME

 

-TOWARDS 2027-

Navigating Nigeria’s Road to 2027: Strategic Programs and Emerging Political Shifts

As Nigeria approaches its 2027 general elections, a wave of strategic planning, civic engagement, and political repositioning is reshaping the democratic space. Stakeholders ranging from electoral institutions to civil society groups are laying the groundwork for a more transparent and inclusive process. Here’s an expanded look at key developments and initiatives gaining traction across the country.

Strengthening Electoral Institutions: INEC’s Early Moves

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is already steering the preparatory ship well ahead of schedule, with robust internal mechanisms being activated:

·       Election Project Plan Committee (EPPC): This newly inaugurated body is crafting a comprehensive electoral blueprint to guide logistics, technology integration, and stakeholder coordination for 2027.

·       Strategic Timelines: INEC is prioritizing the early release of planning documents to avoid last-minute implementation gaps, drawing lessons from the 2023 electoral cycle.

·       Stakeholder Consultation Framework: A new emphasis is being placed on collaborative engagement with political parties, civil society, and security agencies to foster inclusivity and conflict prevention.

Goodluck Jonathan, Appointed UN Global Crisis Envoy

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Fmr. Nigeria's President

From Bayelsa to the UN: Goodluck Jonathan’s Appointment Signals Africa’s Diplomatic Leap

In an unprecedented diplomatic development, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of Nigeria, has been appointed as the United Nations Global Crisis Envoy. The position, jointly endorsed by global powers, the United States, United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia, marks a turning point in African representation on the world stage.

Jonathan becomes the first African former Head of State to assume such a high-level role in global crisis mediation, a position akin to the one previously held by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair in the Middle East.

'Influencer' who garnered 165k followers while 'enjoying Wimbledon' is revealed as an AI creation

The posts on Mia Zelu's Instagram page were so carefully curated that they hoodwinked more than 40,000 people into liking the pictures

- Special Report -

When AI Influencers Fool the Crowd: The Rise and Ethics of Digital Fame

In July 2025, the internet buzzed over a striking Instagram personality named Mia Zelu, who shared glamorous snapshots of herself enjoying the Wimbledon tennis tournament. With 165,000 followers and captivating captions like “Still not over the event... but the party’s a whole other game,” she appeared to be the perfect blend of style, charm, and social media savvy.

MORNING BRIEFING | 210725

Morning Briefing | Monday, July 21, 2025, ||| your curated snapshot of Nigeria and the world in socio-economic, political, entertainment, and sporting affairs

Nigeria: Socio-Economic Pulse

• Economic Growth Outlook Brightens Nigeria’s GDP is projected to grow by 3.6% in 2025, buoyed by increased fuel output from the Dangote refinery, which is now producing beyond domestic demand. This shift positions Nigeria as a net fuel exporter for the first time, easing inflation and strengthening the naira.
• Investment Drive Intensifies Billionaire Aliko Dangote has urged wealthy Nigerians to invest locally, citing the refinery’s success as a model for transformative development. The Federal Government echoes this optimism, crediting reforms under President Tinubu for stabilizing the economy.

FEEL MY PULSE | 190725

Editorial Commentary: Voices in the Current

As Nigeria and the world navigate a constellation of transformations, from climate anxieties and political recalibrations to tech upheavals and cultural renaissance, individuals, organizations, and movements are responding in ways that reflect both hope and skepticism. Their reactions aren't just noise in the system; they’re shaping the narrative itself.

Nigeria: Mourning, Music, and Meaning

The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has elicited contrasting sentiments. Foreign dignitaries and African statesmen honored his leadership as steadfast and visionary, with tributes flowing from across continents. Yet domestically, the renaming of UNIMAID after him stirred backlash. Students and alumni argued it tarnishes the institution’s legacy, pointing to educational policies that frustrated academia during his tenure. For many Nigerians, this moment is less about national reverence and more about political memory.

EDUCATION AND CULTRE | AN EMBRACE FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW

-         SPECIAL REPORT -

Reimagining the Future: How Educational and Cultural Innovation Is Empowering Youth and Reshaping Creative Economies

From bustling tech hubs in Lagos to immersive art festivals in Delhi, the convergence of educational innovation and cultural creativity is sparking a global movement, one that is empowering young people, expanding digital access, and redefining how economies grow through art, learning, and design.

Innovation in Education: From Classrooms to Catalysts

Global Forums on Learning Transformation

July 2025 saw a series of influential conferences reshaping global education:

• At ICOIE 2025 in Hong Kong, educators championed open and flexible learning models, powered by AI, gamification, and inclusive pedagogies.
• The ITECONFERENCE 2025 in London invited global experts to reimagine curricula—highlighting digital equity, early childhood innovation, and machine-learning-assisted instruction.
• In Las Vegas, the Innovative Schools Summit addressed the urgent need to rebuild student engagement post-pandemic, with tools for resilience and behavior transformation.

NIGERIA’S NATIONAL CONSTITUTION SUMMIT – 2025 | HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ?

-SPECIAL REPORT-

NIGERIA’S NATIONAL CONSTITUTION SUMMIT – 2025 | WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

The National Constitutional Summit held in Abuja from July 15–17, 2025, was a landmark event aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s democratic future. Convened by The Patriots, a coalition of elder statesmen and civic leaders led by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, the summit brought together over 700 delegates from across the country and the diaspora.

Key Objectives

• Replace the 1999 Constitution with a new, people-driven charter
• Restore true federalism and decentralize governance
• Create a Constituent Assembly through non-partisan elections
• Draft a new constitution to be ratified via national referendum

Major Reform Proposals

• Governance Structure
• Shift from the expensive presidential system to a more accountable model
• Restructure Nigeria into autonomous regions with genuine federal powers
• Streamline the legislature to reduce cost and improve efficiency

NEWSROUNDUP | 190725

The Global Pulse: Nigeria’s Momentum and the Triple Helix Shaping Our Future

As the world spins through turbulent headlines and digital revolutions, Nigeria holds its own amid shifting global tides. From art to athletics, from power plays to political pivots, this is a panoramic view of what’s shaping the moment, locally and globally.

Nigeria: Talent, Tensions & Transformation

Political Realignments and Rising Voices

• Obasanjo’s Call for National Unity Former President Olusegun Obasanjo decried Nigeria’s current trajectory, asserting that insecurity and hardship reveal a country in bondage. He emphasized the need for a leader who transcends tribal lines.
• NNPP Courts Obasanjo Ahead of 2027 Seeking strategic guidance, NNPP leaders met Obasanjo to foster unity and political vision for the upcoming elections.
• Push for Electoral Reform With Atiku’s recent party switch, PDP and ADC leaders are rallying for coalitions and reforms to challenge APC dominance.

2025 NATIONAL CONSTITUTION SUMMIT | A NECESSITY OF YESTERDAY

-       SPECIAL REPORT -

 Nigeria’s 2025 National Constitutional Summit: A Bold Step Toward Democratic Renewal

Held from July 15–17, 2025, in Abuja, the National Constitutional Summit marked a historic turning point in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. Spearheaded by The Patriots, a coalition of elder statesmen, legal experts, and civic leaders, this summit aimed to rewrite Nigeria’s governance blueprint by replacing the widely criticized 1999 Constitution with a truly people-driven charter.

Over 700 delegates from across Nigeria and its diaspora gathered with one common purpose: to set the stage for a reimagined federal structure, inclusive democracy, and accountable leadership.

ABUJA IN THE LAST ONE WEEK | POLITICS, URBAN DEVELOPMENTS & MORE

Abuja in Focus: Coalition Politics, Urban Renewal, and the Capital's Rising Voice

Abuja, Nigeria As the political heartbeat of Nigeria, Abuja never sleeps, and this past week was no exception. From strategic opposition alliances to sweeping economic conversations, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) played host to a series of developments that echo far beyond its skyline.

Power Plays and Political Reconfigurations

The nation’s capital saw a convergence of heavyweights, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, in a meeting that many are calling the start of an “opposition renaissance.” With whispers of a united front to challenge the ruling APC in the 2027 elections, analysts say this “coalition of veterans” could redefine Nigeria’s political map.

Family in shock after discovering their ‘’female’ househelp is actually a man

 

- SPECIAL REPORT -

Deception, Dignity, and Desperation: Unpacking the Househelp Identity Scandal in Nigeria

A Nigerian family was left stunned after discovering that their “female” househelp was, in fact, a man. The revelation, captured in a viral video, showed the individual removing a silicon bra and skirt, exposing his true identity. The incident has sparked widespread debate across social media, touching on issues of deception, human rights, poverty, and public ethics.

The Incident

The househelp had been living and working in the household while presenting as female. Upon suspicion, the family asked him to undress, revealing male genitalia. The video of this moment was shared online, triggering a firestorm of reactions.