Here are the top 10 breaking News in Nigeria today, Monday, February 26, 2024.
1. MILITARY COUP: Army Speaks On Putting Presidential Guards Brigade On High Alert
The Nigerian Army has dismissed rumors circulating about a potential coup against the administration of President Bola Tinubu as “fake news.”
Reports had emerged on Sunday alleging heightened security measures by the presidential guards due to suspicions of a coup plot in Nigeria.
According to the reports, the presidential guards were placed on “high alert,” with key brigades closely monitored. It was mentioned that Col. Adebisi Onasanya, the Commander of the Presidential Guards Brigade, held meetings with Tinubu and his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
2. Nationwide Protest: Presidency Fires Back at NLC, Insists Planned Protest is Illegal
The Presidency has again warned the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) not to proceed with its planned two-day nationwide protest against the rising cost of living in the country.
Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, reiterated the caution, expressing concerns over potential consequences.
“There might be a possible hijack of the procession, arguing that it could worsen the deteriorating situation,” Onanuga stated firmly.
3. President Bola Tinubu Establishes Economic Advisory Committee
In response to the ongoing economic challenges facing the nation, President Bola Tinubu has taken a decisive step by setting up an economic advisory committee.
This committee, comprising representatives from the federal government, sub-national entities, and the private sector, aims to devise strategies to address the prevailing hardship in the country.
4. Fire Outbreak at Minister’s Residence
A fire incident occurred at the private residence of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Sunday. The blaze erupted in the upscale neighborhood of Asokoro in Abuja during the afternoon, causing substantial damage to the property.
5. Customs Intensify Efforts to Combat Food Smuggling
To curb the illegal diversion of food items to neighboring countries, the Nigeria Customs Service has ramped up its surveillance measures.
By deploying drones and increasing personnel presence, particularly along the 1,500 identified illegal border crossings, the Customs aims to tighten control over food smuggling activities.
6. EFCC Chairman Reports Progress in Anti-Corruption Efforts
Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), disclosed significant progress in the agency’s anti-corruption endeavors.
Within less than 100 days of assuming office, the EFCC received over 5,000 fraud petitions and successfully recovered N60 billion in looted funds. Out of these petitions, 3,000 have been approved for further investigation.
Revival of Abandoned Housing Projects Initiated: The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria has embarked on a rehabilitation process to revive approximately 46 abandoned housing projects nationwide. Through a partnership with Shelter Afrique Development Bank, the bank aims to address the housing deficit by revitalizing these projects, thereby providing affordable housing solutions.
7. Qatar Reverses Decision on Business Forum with Nigerian Delegation
The Qatar authorities have agreed to host a business and investment forum with a Nigerian delegation during President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming visit to Doha.
Scheduled for March 2 and 3, this forum presents an opportunity to strengthen bilateral economic ties between the two nations.
8. Northern Senators’ Forum Commends ECOWAS Leadership
The Northern Senators’ Forum has lauded the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and other ECOWAS leaders for lifting sanctions imposed on Niger Republic.
The decision to lift sanctions, initially imposed to compel Niger’s junta to return to democratic rule, reflects the sub-regional body’s commitment to promoting stability and democracy in the region.
9. Stampede Claims Seven Lives at Customs Headquarters
Tragedy struck at the Zone ‘A’ headquarters of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Yaba, Lagos, as seven individuals lost their lives in a stampede during the sale of rice to the public.
Among the victims was Comfort Adebanjo, a member of the Lagos State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), along with six others.
10. Deputy Governor Raises Concerns Over Removal Scheme
Philip Shaibu, Deputy Governor of Edo State, expressed apprehension regarding a purported scheme to remove him from office.
He cited heightened efforts following his selection as a factional candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the upcoming gubernatorial election. Shaibu’s concerns highlight the political tensions surrounding the electoral process in the state.