Welcome to NowNowNaija! A new drug test policy is set to change the way Nigerian schools handle substance abuse. This development promises a safer, healthier future for students nationwide.

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a policy requiring compulsory and random drug tests in Nigerian schools to discourage substance abuse among young people. This policy is a collaboration between the NDLEA and the Federal Ministry of Education, targeting students especially those aiming for tertiary education.

This policy means you or your community might see fewer cases of drug abuse in schools as students face regular testing. It supports youth development and national security by tackling substance abuse early. For many families, it could mean a safer environment and preservation of academic integrity. Schools will also receive support to build strong drug prevention programs, making this a community-wide effort to protect young Nigerians' futures.

Source: Blueprint Newspapers
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Rates shown are as of 6:00 AM Lagos time.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has critiqued President Bola Tinubu’s 2026 Appropriation Bill as deepening Nigeria’s economic challenges rather than alleviating them. The Labour Party’s Peter Obi accused the government of forging laws related to the budget. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the true measure of governance is its impact on citizens, not just the numbers in the budget.

This budget could affect your daily life by failing to ease the rising cost of living, hunger, and poverty that many Nigerians face despite government claims of economic growth. The overlapping execution of multiple budgets suggests worsening fiscal management, which may lead to less transparent and efficient use of public funds. This means your taxes might not translate into better infrastructure, security, or social services, and it raises questions about accountability in how Nigeria’s resources are spent.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

Nigeria’s ICT sector added N9.44 trillion to the economy in Q3 2025, driven by telecommunications and information services. Despite strong contributions, broadband access remains uneven, with urban centers like Lagos well connected but rural areas lagging far behind. Industry leaders stress the need for nationwide infrastructure and local manufacturing to bridge the digital divide.

For you and communities outside major cities, this means improved broadband could soon reach underserved areas, enhancing access to education, agriculture, and digital services. The government’s plan to build nearly 4,000 rural telecom towers tackles connectivity gaps, aiming to include 23 million Nigerians currently offline. Expanding infrastructure locally also promises job creation and cost reduction, making digital life more affordable and inclusive across Nigeria.

Source: Punch
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The Central Bank of Nigeria has ordered all banks and payment service providers to ensure ATMs, POS, and online terminals fully support foreign-issued cards. This includes configuring systems to accept international cards, implementing stricter authentication for large transactions, and maintaining sufficient liquidity for smooth operations.

This directive means you can expect more reliable access to cash and payment services when using foreign cards in Nigeria, especially if you're a tourist or diasporan. Banks must openly communicate exchange rates and fees, enhancing transparency and security. With improved fraud controls and complaint resolution, your transactions will be safer while preventing service interruptions. Also, multi-factor authentication may add a layer of security for larger withdrawals, protecting your money.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

Nile Cinemas is growing by integrating VIVA Cinemas, extending its reach to cities like Ikeja, Ibadan, Ilorin, and Enugu. This move increases Nile’s total locations to eight, enhancing the movie-going experience with upgraded seats, better sound, and modernized venues.

For movie lovers across Nigeria, this expansion means more accessible, high-quality cinemas offering a premium viewing experience closer to home. Families and groups can enjoy improved comfort and technology, raising the standard for film entertainment. This also supports local film culture by bringing diverse audiences together in welcoming spaces nationwide.

Source: Punch
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The Social Feed:

Nigerian fighter Wasi Adeshina made history by becoming the inaugural Professional Fighters League Africa featherweight champion after a technical knockout victory over Cameroon's Alain Majorique in Cotonou, Benin. This victory secured him the prestigious title and a $100,000 prize. The event also saw strong performances from other Nigerian fighters, emphasizing the country's growing presence in African mixed martial arts.

This victory puts Nigeria at the forefront of the African MMA scene, highlighting the talent emerging from the country. For Nigerian sports fans and aspiring fighters, Adeshina's achievement represents both national pride and a tangible path to success on the international stage, including financial rewards and recognition. The growing prominence of African fighters in global MMA leagues could inspire more investments and opportunities in local sports communities across Nigeria.

Source: Punch
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Sports Spotlight:

Quote of the Day

“The greatest danger to our future is apathy.” — Wole Soyinka