NewsRoundUp | At This Time

Echoes of the Past, Tensions of the Present — A Global Crossroads

In a world increasingly shaped by the interplay of history and modern urgency, the events of August 27, 2025, offer a vivid snapshot of nations grappling with legacy challenges while navigating contemporary crises. From Nigeria’s agro-industrial ambitions to geopolitical tremors between superpowers, each headline carries the weight of decades past, and the momentum of global transformation.

Nigeria’s decision to suspend raw shea nut exports for six months marks a pivotal moment in its economic evolution. Long dependent on crude oil, the country has struggled to capture value from its vast agricultural potential. Despite being the world’s leading producer of shea nuts, Nigeria has historically exported them raw, forfeiting billions in global market share. The ban, part of the broader “Zero Oil Plan,” reflects a growing trend among developing nations to assert control over their supply chains and shift toward value-added exports. It’s a move that echoes similar policies in Ghana and Burkina Faso, and speaks to a larger global push for trade equity and economic sovereignty.

Gov Uzodinma raises Minimum Wage to N104,000, Doctors’ Salaries now N582,000

-Special Report-

Imo State’s Wage Revolution and Its Ripple Effects Across Nigeria

In a bold and unprecedented move, Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma has raised the minimum wage for civil servants to ₦104,000 per month, positioning the state as a national leader in worker compensation. This announcement, made during a meeting with the state’s labour force at the Government House in Owerri, also included a substantial increase in doctors’ salaries to ₦582,000 monthly. The governor attributed this wage reform to a surge in internally generated revenue and increased federal allocations, emphasizing that the new salary structure is designed to stimulate the state’s economy and enhance civil servant morale and productivity. In tandem, he pledged ₦16 billion to clear outstanding gratuity arrears for pensioners, signaling a comprehensive approach to worker welfare.

239 First-class lecturers quit UNILAG within 7 years over poor pay – Ex-VC

-SEB EDITORIAL-

The Silent Erosion of Excellence: UNILAG and the Crisis in Nigerian Higher Education

The University of Lagos (UNILAG), once a beacon of academic excellence and intellectual prestige in Nigeria, now finds itself at a crossroads. Established in 1962 by an act of the Federal Parliament, UNILAG was envisioned as a cornerstone of post-independence development, a place where the brightest minds would be nurtured to lead the nation into a prosperous future. From its modest beginnings with just 131 students, the university has grown into a sprawling institution with over 57,000 students, 19 faculties, and a legacy of producing some of Nigeria’s most influential figures across politics, business, entertainment, and academia.

I Take Responsibility For Abuja-Kaduna Train Derailment — NRC MD

Toward a Safer Future: Building a Trauma-Informed Railway System in Nigeria

The derailment of the Abuja–Kaduna train on August 26, 2025, marked a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s railway sector. While the incident resulted in no fatalities, four passengers sustained serious injuries, and the chaotic aftermath left many shaken. In a rare and commendable move, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, publicly accepted full responsibility. Speaking on Channels Television, he emphasized that “in the case of safety, there is no indifference,” and pledged to follow up with all 618 passengers to address potential post-traumatic effects.

This response signals a shift toward a more transparent and human-centered approach to railway safety, one that could serve as a blueprint for broader reform. Drawing from global best practices and the lessons of past rail disasters, Nigeria now has the opportunity to build a trauma-informed, resilient railway system.

2027 Presidency: Makinde, others to fight for PDP ticket

Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State

-SEB EDITORIAL-

PDP’s Southern Gamble—A Defining Moment for Nigeria’s Opposition

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has made a decisive move that could reshape the nation’s political trajectory: zoning its presidential ticket to the South. This strategic pivot, ratified at the party’s 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, signals both a reckoning with past missteps and a recalibration of its future ambitions.

Wike’s aide proposes mandatory NIN, ID for social media accounts

Lere Olayinka, SSA on Public Communications and Social Media to the Hon. Minister of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (F.C.T)

-SPECIAL REPORT-

Proposal for Social Media Regulation in Nigeria

Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has proposed stricter regulations for social media use in Nigeria. His key suggestion:

·       Mandatory Identification: Users should be required to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) and a valid government-issued ID (e.g., passport, voter’s card, or driver’s license) to open or operate any social media account.

·       Goal: The proposal aims to curb misinformation and enhance accountability online.

·       Context: Nigeria already mandates NIN for banking and telecom services, so extending it to social media would align with existing identity verification systems.

Why women should stop relying on men’s wealth — Jemima Osunde

The Rise of Financially Independent Women: Jemima Osunde’s Call and the Cultural Shift in Nigeria

In a bold and unapologetic statement, Nollywood actress Jemima Osunde ignited a nationwide conversation about women’s financial independence. Her post on X (formerly Twitter) challenged the growing trend of women aspiring to be “rich housewives,” relying solely on their partners’ wealth. With biting wit, she asked, “Work his ass off for money? Wetin do your own ass? You don’t want to work? In this economy?” Her message was clear: the fantasy of being financially supported without contributing is not only outdated but impractical in today’s economic climate.

ReviewsNetwork@LIB.NG | Pastor warns women against trying to ‘own’ their husbands as she narrates her visit to a psychiatric hospital

Main Message

Pastor Dolapo Adelakun shares a spiritual reflection urging women to find peace in God and love for themselves, rather than trying to "own" their husbands or other external things. She emphasizes that clinging to relationships or possessions can lead to emotional and mental breakdowns when those things are lost or shaken.

Her Experience

She recounts a visit to a psychiatric hospital where she observed:

·       The female ward was overcrowded, with women suffering from mental health issues largely tied to marital and family problems.

·       The male ward had only four patients, mostly due to drug use or job loss.

Ops ... IT'S MONDAY!

 

-SPECIAL FEATURE-

What It Really Feels Like Getting Set for Work on a Monday Morning

Monday mornings have a reputation. For some, they’re a fresh start; for others, they’re the weekly reminder that weekends are fleeting and reality is relentless. In Nigeria, “getting set for work on a Monday morning” is more than just a routine, it’s a sensory, emotional, and cultural experience that begins long before the alarm rings.

The Sunday Night Prelude

The morning starts on truth is, Monday Sunday night. Around 9 p.m., the weekend’s energy begins to fade. The fan hums lazily, a neighbour’s generator grumbles, and family WhatsApp groups light up with blessings for the week ahead. You respond politely, but your mind is already calculating how many hours of sleep you’ll get if you close your eyes immediately.

Nigeria and the Global Pulse

-SEB EDITORIAL-

A World in Flux—Nigeria and the Global Pulse

In a time when headlines blur into each other with dizzying speed, the stories emerging from Nigeria and across the globe reveal a world caught between upheaval and transformation. From the dusty borderlands of the northeast to the diplomatic corridors of Washington and Tel Aviv, the narrative is one of tension, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of change.

Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The recent precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force, which reportedly neutralized over 35 terrorists near the Cameroon border, signal a renewed commitment to national security. For many citizens, this is a welcome shift, a momentary relief in a long-standing battle against insurgency. Yet, skepticism lingers. Civil society groups and human rights advocates remain cautious, recalling past operations where civilian casualties blurred the line between victory and tragedy. The military, for its part, insists on the professionalism and intelligence-led nature of the strikes, hoping to rebuild trust in its operations.

FEEL MY PULSE | AT THIS TIME

Reactions in Nigeria

Airstrikes Against Terrorists

• Public Sentiment: Mixed but largely supportive. Many Nigerians praised the military’s precision and renewed commitment to security.
• Concerns: Some citizens and human rights groups remain wary of collateral damage and past civilian casualties in similar operations.
• Military Response: The Nigerian Air Force emphasized professionalism and intelligence-driven targeting to reassure the public.

Economic Recovery

• Online Reaction: Over 68% of social media posts were critical of the fuel subsidy removal and rising costs.
• Street Protests: Movements like #EndBadGovernance and general strikes led by NLC and TUC reflect deep frustration. Over 1,100 arrests and 22 deaths occurred during protests.
• Cultural Pushback: Protest songs like Tell Your Papa were banned, sparking debates on censorship and artistic freedom.

SEB SOCIAL | AT THIS TIME

-SEB SOCIAL-

The Pulse of Social Media: Nigeria and the World at this time in 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, August 2025 has been nothing short of electric. From the bustling feeds of Nigeria’s X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook to the global digital stage, stories have emerged that reflect not only the zeitgeist but also the deeper undercurrents shaping our collective consciousness. Let’s take a closer look at what’s trending, and why it matters.

In Nigeria, the digital conversation has been dominated by a curious mix of celebrity drama, cultural pride, and civic frustration. One of the most talked-about incidents involved Gbenga Samuel-Wemimo, a popular influencer whose clash with Apple over a failed iPhone upgrade at the Lekki store sparked a national debate. What began as a customer service complaint quickly snowballed into a broader conversation about corporate accountability and the treatment of Nigerian consumers. It’s fascinating how a single tech hiccup can ignite such widespread discourse—proof that Nigerians are increasingly unwilling to accept subpar service, especially from global brands.

The Epic Nollywood Saga of a Nigerian Workweek - Ward9ice

By:  Ward9ice

From Sunday Shadows to Friday Freedom: The Epic Nollywood Saga of a Nigerian Workweek

Prologue: The Universal Struggle

Across the globe, Monday mornings are a shared human trial, a ritual of alarm clocks, coffee cups, and reluctant commutes. But in Nigeria, the experience is not just a routine. It’s a production. A full‑blown, multi‑act drama with a cast of millions, a soundtrack of honking danfos and sizzling akara, and a plot that begins long before the alarm rings.

This is the story of one man, Solomon, and his weekly odyssey from the quiet dread of Sunday night to the sweet, trumpet‑blaring victory of Friday evening.

NewsRoundUp | At This Time

Major News in Nigeria

Military Action Against Terrorists

• The Nigerian Air Force killed over 35 terrorists near the Nigeria–Cameroon border in precision airstrikes under Operation Hadin Kai. The strikes disrupted planned attacks and stabilized the region.

Economic Recovery with Challenges

• Nigeria has recorded its first balance of payments surplus in three years, thanks to reforms like subsidy removal and increased oil production. The Dangote refinery is now a net exporter of petroleum products.
• Despite macroeconomic improvements, extreme poverty and poor infrastructure persist. Life expectancy remains alarmingly low at 54 years, the lowest globally.

DNA should be mandatory before birth certificates are issued in Nigeria - Lawyer, Deji Adeyanju

Bloodlines and Birthrights: Nigeria’s DNA Debate Reignites Questions of Family, Truth, and Identity

-SPECIAL REPORT-

In a country where family bonds are deeply cherished and identity is woven into the fabric of community, a bold proposal has ignited a national conversation. Nigerian lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has called on the National Assembly to pass legislation that would make DNA testing mandatory before birth certificates are issued. His aim is clear: to combat the rising tide of paternity fraud and ensure that every child’s identity is rooted in biological truth.

BEYOND 13 WORSHIPPERS KILLED IN KATSINA

-SEB EDITORIAL-

Beyond the Gunfire: Unraveling the Roots and Remedies of Banditry in Nigeria and Africa

Banditry has become one of the most destabilizing forces in Nigeria’s security landscape, evolving from isolated criminal acts into a sprawling crisis that threatens lives, livelihoods, and national cohesion. The recent attack in Katsina State, where armed bandits stormed a mosque during early morning prayers and killed 13 worshipers, is a chilling reminder of how deeply entrenched this violence has become. It is not merely a local tragedy, it is a symptom of a broader, systemic failure that spans across Nigeria and much of Africa.

Having to carry my own babies in my 50s is not a road easy to pass - Nigerian woman says as she welcomes a set of twins

-SPECIAL REPORT-

Grace Beyond Time: Adesuwa’s Twin Triumph in Her Fifties

·       ‘A Nigerian woman named Adesuwa Ujiadughele has joyfully welcomed twin girls in her 50s, sharing her experience in a heartfelt Facebook post. She expressed deep gratitude to God, acknowledging the physical and emotional challenges of carrying children at her age. Adesuwa emphasized the importance of timely medical intervention, cautioning against overly spiritualizing health matters, while still affirming her faith in divine support. Her message also included encouragement for couples hoping to conceive, assuring them that “God has got your back”.’

Adesuwa Ujiadughele’s story is one that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever held onto hope through seasons of waiting. Her recent announcement of welcoming twin girls in her 50s is not just a personal triumph, it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, faith, and the importance of embracing both spiritual and medical support.

Banditry in Nigeria | Deep | Multifaceted

Banditry: Roots, Remedies in Nigeria and Africa

-SPECIAL REPORT-

Banditry has emerged as one of the most pressing security challenges in Nigeria and across Africa, evolving from isolated criminal acts into a complex, organized threat that destabilizes entire regions. In Nigeria, particularly in the northwest, banditry has escalated dramatically over the past decade. What began as sporadic cattle rustling and rural ambushes has transformed into mass kidnappings, armed robbery, and targeted killings. The recent attack in Katsina State, where bandits stormed a mosque and killed 13 worshipers during early morning prayers, underscores the brutality and reach of these groups.

Comfort Emmanson and the Power of Emotional Honesty in the Public Eye

-EDITORIAL-

From Turbulence to Testimony: Comfort Emmanson’s Journey of Emotional Integrity

·      The Courage to Be Real: Comfort Emmanson and the Power of Vulnerability

·      Beyond the Headlines: A Woman’s Truth in the Eye of Public Scrutiny

·      When Pain Speaks: The Rise of Emotional Honesty in Nigerian Public Life

·      Comfort’s Voice: Turning Trauma into Truth in a Viral Age

·      Dignity in the Spotlight: What Comfort Emmanson Teaches Us About Being Human

In recent days, Comfort Emmanson has become an unexpected symbol of resilience and vulnerability in Nigeria’s public discourse. Her encounter aboard an Ibom Air flight, which sparked widespread attention across social and traditional media, has evolved into something far more profound than a viral moment. It has become a national conversation about dignity, justice, and the emotional cost of public scrutiny.

As financial and material support pours in from diverse quarters, individuals, organizations, and even state actors, Comfort finds herself at a crossroads. The offers are generous, the sympathy is overwhelming, and the spotlight is intense. But with visibility comes responsibility, and with public sympathy comes the delicate challenge of remaining emotionally honest in a world that often rewards performance over truth.

NIGERIA | CORRECTIONAL CENTRES | WAKE-UP CALL FOR REVIEW

Nigeria’s Century-Old Prisons: A Wake-Up Call for Reform

-SPECIAL REPORT-

In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed a sobering truth: many of the country’s 246 correctional centres are over 100 years old, with some dating back to the colonial era. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for comprehensive prison reform, not just in infrastructure, but in philosophy, healthcare, and rehabilitation.

A System Stuck in Time

Tunji-Ojo highlighted that facilities like Ikoyi Prison (established in 1956) and Suleja Prison (1914) are still in operation, despite their age and deteriorating conditions. These institutions were never designed to meet modern standards of human rights or rehabilitation.

“Mr President did not become President 100 years ago… We have 246 correctional centres, and none were established under this administration,” Tunji-Ojo noted.

While 12 prisons are currently undergoing renovation, the scale of the challenge is immense. Each centre contains multiple structures, making nationwide upgrades a long-term endeavor.

Political engines are already revving up for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections | UPDATE

 

NIGERIA’S 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | ACTIVITIES STIRRING MOMENTUM

The political engines are revving up for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, and the unveiling activities are already stirring momentum across party lines.

Here’s what’s unfolding:

PDP’s Zoning Formula & Convention Plans

• The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is set to unveil its zoning formula on August 25, 2025, a key step in determining which regions will produce candidates for major offices.
• The zoning committee, led by Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, is meeting in Abuja to finalize proposals.
• A full schedule of activities runs from August to December 2025, culminating in the national convention on November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
• Speculations are swirling about potential contenders like former President Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Seyi Makinde, and Governor Bala Mohammed possibly entering the race.

PDP inaugurates 44-member zoning committee, demands Wike’s total loyalty

Zoning at the Crossroads: PDP’s Strategic Gamble Ahead of 2027

As Nigeria’s leading opposition party, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) stands at a critical juncture. With the inauguration of a 44-member zoning committee ahead of its November 2025 National Elective Convention, the party is not just allocating offices, it’s laying the groundwork for its 2027 presidential ambitions.

The Committee’s Mandate

Chaired by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, the zoning committee has been tasked with recommending how National Working Committee (NWC) positions should be distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. But beyond internal party roles, the committee’s decisions are widely expected to signal which region may produce the PDP’s next presidential candidate.

Destination Next | 2027 | NIGERIA'S GENERAL ELECTIONS

Nigeria 2027: The Road to the Ballot Begins

-EDITORIAL-

As Nigeria inches closer to its pivotal 2027 general elections, the political terrain is already buzzing with strategic maneuvers, party realignments, and electoral preparations. From zoning formulas to by-elections, the stage is being set for what promises to be one of the most consequential elections in the country’s democratic history.

PDP’s Strategic Reset: Zoning and Convention Plans

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is taking bold steps to redefine its internal structure and electoral strategy. Central to this is the unveiling of its zoning formula, scheduled for August 25, 2025. This formula will determine which geopolitical zones are favored for key positions, including the coveted presidential ticket.

Child’s Death and the Urgent Reckoning with Corporal Punishment in Schools

A Child’s Death and the Urgent Reckoning with Corporal Punishment in Schools

-EDITORIAL-

The tragic death of a Grade 10 pupil at Huhudi Secondary School in South Africa, reportedly after being forced to run as punishment for arriving late, has shaken the conscience of a nation. It is a moment that demands not only grief, but introspection. This was not merely a disciplinary misstep; it was a systemic failure that cost a young life. And it must be a turning point.

According to the North West Department of Education, the pupil collapsed and died shortly after the punishment was administered. A teacher transported her to a clinic due to ambulance delays, but it was too late. The department has dispatched psychologists to support the family and school community, and disciplinary action is pending the postmortem results. Yet, the damage is done, and the questions are many.

PDP | ZONING | WILL EQUITY FIND ITS PLACE?

PDP’s Zoning Gamble — Will Equity Trump Ambition?

-EDITORIAL-

As Nigeria’s political landscape begins its slow pivot toward 2027, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has once again turned to zoning, a concept both revered and reviled within its ranksto  chart its future. With the inauguration of a 44-member zoning committee ahead of its November convention, the party is not just allocating offices; it is attempting to reconcile its fractured soul.