THIS SUNDAY | 310825

-SPECIAL FEATURE-

Sundays in Nigeria often carry a reflective, communal energy, whether it’s through faith, family, or simply slowing down after a busy week. If you're looking to mark the day with something meaningful, here are a few ideas that blend significance with the spirit of the moment:

Community Wellness: Healing in Togetherness

• Host a Sunday wellness circle in your compound or local center.
• Invite a nurse, counselor, or even a wise elder to speak on stress, anxiety, and how to cope in today’s Nigeria.
• Include breathing exercises, light stretching, or even a short gratitude ritual.
• Encourage attendees to share one thing they’re struggling with and one thing they’re hopeful about.

"When we heal together, we grow stronger than we ever could alone."

NewsRoundUp | AT THIS TIME

Global & Nigerian News Roundup — Editorial Edition | August 30, 2025

Global Pulse: Shifting Powers, Legal Battles, and Diplomatic Tensions

Trump’s Tariff Turmoil A U.S. federal appeals court has ruled that former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, imposed under emergency powers, were unlawful. The decision affects punitive duties on countries like India and casts doubt on trade deals with Japan, the EU, and Canada. Trump, defiant as ever, warned that overturning the tariffs could “destroy the United States of America.” The ruling won’t take effect until October, giving the administration time to appeal to the Supreme Court.

HARD BREAK - The Screenplay

-WARD9ICE-

BISI LAWRENCE is holidaying with her parents in the city. Usually, a holiday is a moment for happiness, merriments and adventures. But for Bisi, it's an indoor world of loneliness and depression. Why is everyone so concerned about her love-life? Why is she bent on resigning from the human race? What then happens when she suddenly receives a buzz from MIKE, her best friend's boyfriend? "HARD BREAK", this story is based on the love-life experience of an adorable teenage girl. Curtsy of WARD9ICE, this screenplay format of the teenage love story “HARD BREAK” is an advance preamble of the FULL STORY which is set to publish soon on this platform.

HARD BREAK

BY: ward9ice

Genre: Teen Drama / Romance Setting: A modest city apartment, present day

CHARACTERS

• BISI LAWRENCE – 17, introspective, emotionally fragile but intelligent
• MRS. LAWRENCE – Bisi’s mother, Ada, warm but intrusive
• MR. LAWRENCE – Bisi’s father, quiet and observant
• TOLA – Bisi’s best friend, bubbly and unaware
• MIKE – Tola’s boyfriend, charming and complicated

Russia-Ukraine War Amid Escalating Violence and Global Uncertainty

 

-Editorial Report-

A Fragile Thaw in the Russia-Ukraine War Amid Escalating Violence and Global Uncertainty

As the Russia-Ukraine war grinds into its third year, the world finds itself caught between cautious optimism and deepening dread. Recent diplomatic overtures have sparked glimmers of hope for a negotiated peace, yet the reality on the ground tells a far more brutal story, one of intensified military aggression, mounting civilian casualties, and a global economy still reeling from the conflict’s far-reaching consequences.

ADC | INEC | NON-RECOGNITION

 

-Special Report-

ADC Leadership Crisis Deepens Amidst Power Struggles and INEC Non-Recognition

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), once considered a rising force among Nigeria’s alternative political parties, is now embroiled in a deepening leadership crisis that threatens its cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. The turmoil began in July 2025 when Ralph Okey Nwosu, the party’s founder and long-serving National Chairman, announced his resignation along with the dissolution of the National Working Committee. In his place, a caretaker committee was unveiled, led by former Senate President David Mark, with former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary and Bolaji Abdullahi as Interim National Publicity Secretary.

ASUU vs Federal Government - Another Strike Looms

 

-Special Report-

ASUU Slams Federal Government Over Unfulfilled Agreements, Threatens Fresh Strike

Nigeria’s fragile higher education system is once again teetering on the edge of disruption as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government over what it describes as a persistent failure to honor long-standing agreements. At a press conference held at the University of Jos, ASUU National President Dr. Christopher Piwuna accused the government of reneging on commitments that date back more than a decade, including the 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement which remains largely unimplemented.

2027 | TINUBU GETS AN ENDORSEMENT

-Special Report-

APC Endorses Tinubu for 2027, But Keeps Presidential Primaries Open

In a move that has stirred both celebration and speculation across Nigeria’s political landscape, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office. The endorsement, announced by key party organs including the National Working Committee, the Progressives Governors Forum led by Senator Hope Uzodinma, and the National Assembly leadership under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was framed as a recognition of Tinubu’s leadership and achievements since assuming office in 2023.

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.