EditorialRoundUp | At This Time

-Editorial Roundup-

Nigeria and the World at a Crossroads at this time

In Nigeria, the week has been marked by a mix of judicial reckoning, diplomatic alignment, and sporting frustration.

A major development came with the sentencing of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the presumed leader of the jihadist group Ansaru, to 15 years in prison for illegal mining activities. This conviction, though focused on economic crimes, is deeply entwined with terrorism financing, as Usman allegedly used proceeds from mining to fund attacks and procure weapons. His group, a splinter faction of Boko Haram now aligned with al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, has been implicated in high-profile kidnappings, prison breaks, and railway bombings. The trial for his broader terrorism charges is set for October, and the outcome could signal Nigeria’s resolve in dismantling insurgent networks.

Infant dies after Mom's boyfriend allegedly bashed in her skull during assault

A Tragedy in the Bronx: The Death of Imani Mitchell and the Shadows of Domestic Violence

In a harrowing case that has shaken the Bronx community, 1-year-old Imani Mitchell lost her life following a brutal assault allegedly carried out by her mother’s boyfriend, Jerome Thomas.

The incident occurred on the evening of August 28, inside a Woodstock apartment where Thomas had been entrusted with babysitting the child. 

Why I stopped Attending Church For More Than 10 Years - Actor Yemi Solade

Nollywood Actor, Yemi Solade

Why Yemi Solade Stopped Attending Church for Over a Decade

Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade recently opened up about his decision to stop attending church services for more than ten years, a choice rooted in a deeply personal experience that challenged his professional life and peace of mind.

Speaking candidly on the Honest Bunch Podcast, Solade recounted a pivotal moment in 2013 that led to his withdrawal from regular church attendance. 

From Wilderness to Gunfire: The Fatal Fall of a Fugitive Dad

-SEB EDITORIAL-

The Fugitive Father: A Tragic End to a Wilderness Odyssey

In one of New Zealand’s most haunting and perplexing manhunts, the saga of Tom Phillips, a father who vanished into the wild with his three children, came to a violent and tragic close.

For nearly four years, Phillips eluded authorities, surviving in the rugged bushland of the Waikato region while raising his children in isolation, far from the reach of society, education, and healthcare. 

His disappearance in December 2021 followed a custody dispute with the children’s mother, who held sole guardianship. What began as a domestic conflict spiraled into a national mystery, captivating the public and frustrating law enforcement.

NERDC confirms new subjects for Nigeria’s education reform

-SEB EDITORIAL-
A Curriculum Reimagined: Nigeria’s Bold Step Toward Educational Reform

In a decisive stride toward modernizing Nigeria’s education system, the Federal Government has released a comprehensive list of approved subjects for both basic and senior secondary schools.

This move, spearheaded by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), marks a significant shift in the nation’s pedagogical approach, aiming to reduce curriculum overload while enhancing relevance, flexibility, and skill acquisition.

2027 Presidency: Jonathan splits South-South PDP

Fmr. Nigeria's President, His Excellency, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

-TOWARDS 2027-

2027 Presidency: Jonathan’s Rumored Comeback Splits South-South PDP

The political landscape of Nigeria’s South-South region is witnessing a seismic shift following reports of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential bid for the 2027 presidency.

Though Jonathan has yet to make a formal declaration, whispers of his return have stirred deep divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), fracturing its unity across key states.

Nepal's Prime Minister has quit amid deadly Gen Z Protests over a social media ban and alleged corruption

Nepal's Political Crisis Deepens as Prime Minister Resigns Amid Gen Z-Led Uprising

Kathmandu has erupted into chaos following the dramatic resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who stepped down late Tuesday amid a wave of deadly protests led by Nepal’s Gen Z population.

The unrest, which began as a response to a controversial social media ban, quickly escalated into a nationwide movement against corruption, privilege, and political impunity.

NIGERIA | QATAR'S VISA BAN | A DEEPER INSIGHT

-SEB EDITORIAL-

Qatar’s Visa Clampdown on Nigerian Men, A Policy Rooted in Prejudice or Pragmatism?

In a move that has stirred diplomatic unease and public outcry, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has enacted a sweeping visa restriction targeting Nigerian men traveling alone. 

Effective from September 5, 2025, the policy bars solo male Nigerian travelers from obtaining tourist or transit visas, unless accompanied by family.

The rationale, according to Qatari authorities, is to curb the rising trend of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals, a justification that, while administratively sound, raises troubling questions about fairness, stereotyping, and international relations.

Nigeria | Once Again, National Grid Collapses

NATIONAL GRID

-SEB EDITORIAL-

A Nation in the Dark | The September 10 Grid Collapse and Nigeria’s Power Paradox

On the morning of September 10, 2025, at about 11:23 a.m., Nigeria’s national electricity grid suffered yet another catastrophic collapse, plunging vast swathes of the country into darkness.

From the bustling streets of Lagos to the administrative corridors of Abuja, the blackout was swift, sweeping, and disturbingly familiar.

Why we increased passport fee by 100% - FG

Passport Fee Hike: Federal Government Defends 100% Increase Amid Reforms

In a move that has stirred widespread debate across Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced a 100% increase in the cost of obtaining international passports, citing the need for reform, improved service delivery, and the elimination of corruption as key motivations.

Effective September 1, 2025, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) revised the fees for passport applications made within Nigeria. The cost of a 32-page passport with five-year validity has risen from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000, while the 64-page passport with ten-year validity now costs ₦200,000.

Full list: FG releases approved subjects for basic and senior secondary schools

Nigeria’s Federal Government Unveils New Curriculum for Basic and Senior Secondary Schools

In a landmark move aimed at reforming Nigeria’s education system, the Federal Government has officially released the approved list of subjects for Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

This announcement, made by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), comes as part of the National Education Sector Reform Initiatives (NESRI), which seeks to streamline learning, reduce curriculum overload, and enhance skill acquisition across the country.

South-west Fulani council bans night grazing and firearms possession by herders

South-West Fulani Council Enforces Ban on Night Grazing and Firearms Possession by Herders

In a decisive move aimed at curbing insecurity and fostering peaceful coexistence, the Council of Fulani Chiefs in South-West Nigeria has announced a sweeping ban on night grazing, underage herding, and the possession of firearms by Fulani herders.

This resolution was made public during a press briefing held in Lagos, led by Mohammed Bambado, the Sarkin Fulani of Lagos and chairman of the council.

2027: INEC worries over early campaigns; recognises David Mark-led ADC

INEC Raises Concerns Over Premature Campaigns Ahead of 2027 Elections; Officially Recognises David Mark-Led ADC Leadership

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has voiced its growing concern over the surge of early political campaigns by various parties and candidates.

Despite clear stipulations in the Electoral Act regarding the timeline for electioneering, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu revealed that the commission is legally constrained from taking punitive action against politicians who have already begun campaigning. This legal limitation has sparked debate among stakeholders about the need for reform and stricter enforcement mechanisms to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.

FG gazettes new tax reform laws

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

-SEB EDITORIAL-

Nigeria’s Tax Reform: A New Dawn or Another Mirage?

The official gazetting of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws marks a pivotal moment in the country’s economic narrative.

For decades, Nigeria has grappled with a convoluted tax system, a narrow revenue base, and a tax-to-GDP ratio that lags behind continental peers. Now, with the publication of four consolidated laws, the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, the Tinubu administration is signaling its intent to rewrite the fiscal playbook.

Wike appoints Nancy Nathan FCTA acting Head of Service

Nancy Sabanti Nathan, Ag. Head of Service, FCTA

Nancy Sabanti Nathan Appointed Acting Head of Service for FCTA

In a swift administrative response to an unexpected vacancy, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has appointed Mrs. Nancy Sabanti Nathan as the Acting Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

This appointment follows the passing of the former Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who died last week, leaving a critical leadership gap in the FCTA.

Tinubu orders overhaul of military operations after Borno massacre

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Orders Military Overhaul Following Borno Massacre

In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack in Borno State, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has ordered a sweeping review of military operations across the country.

The directive follows the tragic events in Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly assault that claimed the lives of both civilians and soldiers.

Nigeria's new tax reform laws officially published in gazette

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Nigeria's New Tax Reform Laws: A Bold Step Toward Fiscal Transformation

In a landmark move to overhaul its fiscal framework, Nigeria has officially published its new tax reform laws in the government gazette, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic restructuring efforts.

Signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 26, 2025, the reforms consolidate four major legislations: the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA), the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act (NRSEA), and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act (JRBEA). These laws aim to simplify Nigeria’s tax system, enhance transparency, and stimulate economic growth by creating a more business-friendly environment.

Qatar bars Nigerian men from solo travel

Qatar Bars Nigerian Men from Solo Travel Amid Visa Policy Overhaul

In a sweeping change to its visa regulations, the Qatari Ministry of Interior has announced that Nigerian men traveling alone will no longer be eligible for tourist or transit visas.

This policy, which took effect on September 5, 2025, applies to both new and pending visa applications and marks a significant shift in Qatar’s approach to managing entry from Nigeria.

10 SEPTEMBER 2025: National grid collapses, disrupts power supply

Darkness Descends: Nigeria’s National Grid Collapses

On September 10, 2025, Nigeria experienced yet another collapse of its national electricity grid, plunging large swathes of the country into darkness and reigniting concerns over the fragility of its power infrastructure.

The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m., with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) confirming a sudden loss of supply from the grid. This disruption affected electricity distribution across multiple states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos, Port Harcourt, Jos, and others.

The Cherubim and Seraphim Church Marks 100 Years with Thanksgiving

-SEB EDITORIAL-

A Century of Grace: The Cherubim and Seraphim Church Marks 100 Years with a Grand Thanksgiving

In a momentous celebration that blended spiritual fervor with cultural pride, the Cherubim and Seraphim Church commemorated its centenary with a resplendent thanksgiving service, drawing worshippers, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond.

Held in Ogun State and streamed live to a global audience, the event marked 100 years since the founding of the first indigenous church in Nigeria by Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase in 1925.

World Cup hope dims for Nigeria after draw against Bafana Bafana

-SEB Editorial-

Nigeria’s World Cup Dream on the Brink After Bloemfontein Blow

In what was billed as a pivotal clash in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

The result, while not a defeat, has left Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification hanging by the thinnest of threads.

Media must hold public officials accountable, says ADC chieftain

ADC Chieftain, Ibrahim Wala

-SEB EDITORIAL-

The Press and Power: Why Accountability Must Be Non-Negotiable

In a democracy, the media is more than a conveyor of information, it is the conscience of the nation. This sentiment was recently echoed by a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who emphasized the urgent need for the press to hold public officials accountable.

His remarks, though not widely circulated under a single headline, align with a growing chorus of voices urging Nigerian journalists to reclaim their watchdog role in the face of political opacity and broken promises.

THANKSGIVING SERVICE CELEBRATING THE CENTENARY OF CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM CHURCH

A Century of Faith: Cherubim and Seraphim Church Marks 100 Years with Grand Thanksgiving Service in Ogun

In a vibrant celebration streamed live by major national television stations in Nigeria, the Cherubim and Seraphim Church commemorated its centenary with a deeply spiritual and culturally rich thanksgiving service held in Ogun State.

The event marked 100 years of the church’s existence, a milestone that drew worshippers, dignitaries, and religious leaders from across Nigeria and beyond.

Tinubu aims to empower women billionaires in $1tn economy push – Minister

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Nigeria's Hon. Minister for Women Affairs

Tinubu’s Vision: Empowering Women Billionaires in Nigeria’s $1 Trillion Economy Drive

In a bold declaration of intent, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has unveiled a sweeping vision to transform Nigeria’s economic landscape by empowering women to become billionaire entrepreneurs and farmers.

This initiative is a cornerstone of the president’s ambitious plan to grow Nigeria’s GDP from its current estimate of $500 billion to a staggering $1 trillion within a few years.

NIWA bans unlicensed boat operations to improve waterway safety

NIWA Cracks Down on Unlicensed Boat Operations to Boost Waterway Safety

In a decisive move to curb the alarming rise in fatal boat accidents across Nigeria, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has imposed a nationwide ban on unlicensed boats and unauthorized loading points.

This sweeping directive, announced by NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji during a press briefing in Abuja, marks a significant shift in the agency’s approach to waterway safety enforcement.