Welcome to NowNowNaija! Thousands are forced off illegal mines, power faces quiet abuse, and education turns digital as Nigeria redraws lines between order and chaos—raising urgent questions about who truly benefits when authority tightens its grip.

TOP STORY

The Federal Government’s Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI) coordinated a large operation to remove thousands of illegal miners from mining sites in Yauri, Kebbi State. This joint effort involved multiple security agencies who reclaimed the land after months of unsupervised and damaging mining activity.

For communities around Yauri, this crackdown means reduced environmental damage and safer living conditions. Illegal mining had led to polluted rivers, destroyed farmland, and unsafe abandoned pits that threatened residents, especially during rainy seasons. The government’s move to formalize mining aims to protect your environment while ensuring local people benefit economically from responsible practices.

Source: The News Chronicle
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Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai has raised alarm that Nigeria's security focus is no longer protecting citizens but securing those in power. He criticized the deployment of security agencies against political opponents and called for a return to a constitution-based security framework that serves all Nigerians.

This shift means you may face increased political targeting and a weakening of public trust in security institutions. It risks undermining democratic values and allowing insecurity to grow unchecked in communities. El-Rufai’s call highlights the urgent need for security reforms that protect your rights and ensure agencies serve the people, not politicians, shaping Nigeria's future stability and governance.

Source: Legit Nigeria
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What else is happening:

Ogun State is investing ₦1 billion to build a 900-seat AI-powered digital classroom at Remo Secondary School in Sagamu. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced this as part of efforts to modernize education, alongside upgrades to science labs, hostels, and existing tech facilities like a robotics lab.

This new facility means students will gain access to cutting-edge digital learning tools tailored for the 21st century. It promises to boost creativity, innovation, and digital skills for thousands of pupils, preparing them for future tech-driven careers. For families and communities, this investment signals stronger educational opportunities and a commitment to nurturing local talent with modern infrastructure.

Source: This Day Live
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Nigeria’s oil sector must change how it finances projects to reach its goal of producing 2 million barrels per day soon and 3 million in the mid-term. Current funding from traditional sources isn’t enough, says Oando’s executive director, who calls for new strategies including government partnerships and patient capital from investors.

If oil production increases as planned, it could boost government revenue and foreign exchange earnings crucial to Nigeria’s economy. However, without new and more flexible financing solutions, these production targets may remain out of reach. This means delays in job creation, community benefits, and improved energy security that depend on a thriving oil sector. For everyday Nigerians, better coordination between government and oil companies promises a smoother, more stable oil market and could eventually lead to more affordable fuel prices.

Source: Business News Nigeria
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What else is happening:

Rotimi Salami has announced the upcoming release of "Kilanko: The Invisible Child," a film he and the late Allwell Ademola worked on before her death in December 2025. The movie, directed by Ademola and produced by Salami, celebrates African women’s resilience and is set to premiere on March 1, 2026, with a cinema release from March 6.

This film is not only a tribute to Allwell Ademola’s legacy but also a reminder of the powerful stories Nollywood continues to tell about African women. For fans and the wider community, the release offers a chance to celebrate a beloved actress posthumously while supporting Nigerian cinema. The emotional reveal by Salami highlights the personal losses behind the scenes and encourages audiences to honor friendship and artistic vision by attending the premiere and screenings.

Source: Legit Nigeria
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The Social Feed:

Cameroon delivered a commanding 5-0 win over Botswana in the first leg of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup African qualifiers, putting them in a strong position. Nigeria secured a tight 1-0 victory against Senegal, while Kenya also edged out Tanzania. Other matches ended in draws, leaving several ties open for the decisive second legs starting February 13.

For young Nigerian football fans and aspiring athletes, Nigeria's win keeps hopes alive for World Cup qualification and underscores the talent developing in local U-20 women’s teams. This momentum boosts national pride and can inspire investment in women’s football programs, community sports, and youth development. With the qualifiers still open, Nigerian communities will be eager to support their team in the upcoming second leg.

Source: Daily Post
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Sports Spotlight:

Quote of the Day

“When the drumbeat changes, the dancer must adjust their steps—or be left behind.”
— Nigerian Proverb