Welcome to NowNowNaija! A deadly fire continues to devastate Lagos Island weeks after Christmas, with loss of lives and property mounting. Here’s what you need to know and why it matters to everyone in the city.

TOP STORY

A fire that broke out on Christmas Eve at the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance Plc building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, has killed five people and injured 12. Despite rescue efforts, the blaze remains active and has destroyed neighboring buildings and shops, leaving many traders devastated.

The ongoing inferno affects thousands of residents and traders who lose income and property worth millions of naira. Traders relying on these premises for their livelihoods face financial ruin, while the broader community confronts increased safety concerns. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for more fire safety infrastructure and government support to prevent such disasters in a busy commercial hub.

Source: The Guardian
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Rates shown are as of 6:00 AM Lagos time.

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Nigerian Army troops in the Niger Delta arrested 19 suspected oil thieves and dismantled 22 illegal refining hubs in a sustained operation targeting pipeline vandalism and oil theft. Between November and December 2025, security forces recovered over 180,000 litres of stolen petroleum products worth more than N150 million across Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states.

These operations directly disrupt the illegal oil trade that drains Nigeria's economy and threaten the safety of local communities. For many Nigerians, this crackdown helps stabilize fuel supplies and protects vital infrastructure that supports jobs and businesses. The seizure of stolen fuel and equipment reduces environmental damage risks in the Niger Delta, promoting safer living conditions. Continued action could encourage residents to support security efforts, fostering long-term regional stability and economic growth.

Source: The Guardian
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What else is happening:

Nigeria’s efforts against terrorism and banditry face serious challenges due to technological shortcomings. Officials revealed the difficulty in tracking criminals using foreign internet services like Starlink, which lie beyond Nigeria’s regulatory reach. Terrorists increasingly exploit platforms like TikTok to spread propaganda and coordinate attacks, complicating security efforts.

This technology gap means national security agencies struggle to trace criminal activities using overseas internet services, leaving communities vulnerable to attacks. As digital tools become central to terrorism, failing to upgrade tech capabilities jeopardizes public safety and slows response times. For you and your community, this highlights the urgent need for stronger cyber surveillance and partnerships with tech firms to curb insecurity effectively.

Source: The Nation Newspaper
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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) is inviting bids to sell stakes in selected oil and gas assets as part of efforts to secure $2 billion for pipeline upgrades. This move comes amid ongoing debt disputes and a recent restoration of the vital Escravos–Lagos pipeline to full operation.

This sale could reshape Nigeria’s oil industry by inviting new investors and potentially improving pipeline infrastructure damaged by vandalism and decay. For Nigerians, better pipeline operations mean more stable energy supply and possibly stronger oil revenues for the nation. However, concerns from powerful oil unions highlight worries about job security and industry stability. The NNPC’s refinancing push and plans to increase production also signal a long-term boost in Nigeria's energy sector with potential economic benefits.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

Ashburton International Ltd. has named Nollywood icon and original Big Brother Naija voice, Ejike Ibedilo, as the special guest of honour for the 2025 Calabar Yearly Cultural Festival. This collaboration with Cross River State highlights both cultural pride and local industry growth.

Having Ejike Ibedilo as the festival’s special guest offers Nigerians a chance to connect deeply with our rich cultural heritage through a beloved media figure. This event also supports local economy and tourism, creating opportunities for jobs and showcasing Cross River State as a creative hub. For fans and communities alike, it’s a moment to celebrate Nigerian talent and promote cultural tourism.

Source: The Guardian
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The Social Feed:

Anthony Joshua, the Nigerian-born two-time heavyweight champion, was involved in a severe car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that resulted in two fatalities. Joshua sustained injuries thought to be minor by officials, but sources indicate possible rib and knee damage. The accident also claimed the lives of his strength coach and trainer, severely impacting his immediate team.

This tragic event hits close to home for many Nigerians who admire Joshua’s sporting achievements and his connection to Nigeria. His injuries and the loss of close friends may delay or end the high-profile fight expected against Tyson Fury, affecting fans and the Nigerian sports community. The crash is a stark reminder of road safety dangers on busy Nigerian highways, an issue that concerns everyday commuters and athletes alike. As recovery unfolds, Joshua’s resilience and future in boxing remain uncertain, drawing widespread attention.

Source: Mail Online
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Sports Spotlight:

Quote of the Day

“This conference has become a united front in our shared mission to protect life, property, and the very heartbeat of the economy of our state from the devastating impact of fire.” — Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu