Welcome to NowNowNaija! The EFCC has taken a major step in a high-profile $35 million fraud case. Here’s what’s unfolding in court and why it matters for Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

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On December 1, 2025, the EFCC re-arraigned Akindele Akintoye on charges of dishonesty and conversion of $35 million linked to an NCDMB project. The case involves allegations of illegally converting invested funds and laundering proceeds related to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Project. Akintoye and his co-defendants pleaded not guilty, and key witnesses detailed cash transfers totaling $6.9 million.

This case highlights ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for large-scale financial crimes in Nigeria. If convictions follow, it could reinforce confidence in anti-corruption agencies and signal stricter scrutiny on public project funds. For citizens, this means a step toward protecting public resources and reducing fraud risks. It also serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about transparency in government initiatives and corporate dealings.

Source: The Nation Newspaper
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Nigeria's Defence Minister, Badaru Abubakar, resigned citing health reasons amid rising insecurity. President Tinubu is reportedly considering former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, as a likely replacement after a recent meeting. Musa was previously removed in a military leadership reshuffle in October 2025.

This change at the top of Nigeria’s defence ministry happens during a national security emergency declared by President Tinubu. For Nigerians, this could mean shifts in how security policies and military operations are managed nationwide. Musa’s return, known for his focus on military reforms and civil-military cooperation, might alter security strategies affecting communities facing persistent threats. Stay tuned for new measures that could directly influence safety and stability across the country.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

LawPavilion has introduced a powerful AI tool tailored specifically for Nigerian judges to speed up justice delivery and reduce case backlogs. The solution, unveiled at the All Nigeria Judges Conference in Abuja, uses verified Nigerian legal data to ensure accuracy and privacy.

This innovation could directly affect you by helping courts resolve cases faster, potentially cutting the backlog by 30-40% in three years. It promises more equitable justice by supporting judges with summaries, evidence analysis, and draft judgments, freeing them to focus on critical human judgment. The system also protects sensitive information with strong encryption and complies with Nigeria’s data laws, ensuring your personal case details remain secure.

Source: This Day Live
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The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has opened its 2025 oil and gas licensing round, targeting $10 billion in investments. The licensing round features 50 oil and gas blocks across onshore, shallow water, and offshore areas, with an expected increase of 400,000 barrels per day of oil production within 10 years.

This licensing round means more jobs and increased oil production, which can boost government revenues and local economies. The automated, transparent process reduces risks and encourages serious investors, improving chances for Nigeria to expand its oil reserves and gas development. For communities near these blocks, it might bring new business opportunities and infrastructure growth. Investors will gain access to detailed geological data, making exploration less risky and quicker.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

Olusegun Omotunde Awolowo, former NEPC CEO, passed away at 62, leaving behind a legacy centered on Nigeria’s economic diversification through the ambitious Zero Oil Plan. His 2016 interview highlighted the plan’s goal for Nigeria to earn billions from non-oil exports by leveraging the country's rich resources and engaging all states in targeted export products.

Awolowo’s vision directly shapes Nigeria’s economic future by promoting a shift away from crude oil dependency toward sustainable growth via diversified exports. This strategy could mean more jobs and foreign exchange, improving living standards across Nigeria. The Zero Oil Plan’s focus on key sectors like agriculture, petrochemicals, and manufacturing offers new opportunities for entrepreneurs, youths, and local communities. His leadership highlights how embracing Nigeria’s natural strengths can transform the economy and reduce poverty over the next decade.

Source: This Day Live
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The Social Feed:

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle plans to release a 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. After missing out on the 2026 World Cup, Chelle and the Nigeria Football Federation are focused on rebuilding the team for a major AFCON campaign. The final 23-player list must be submitted by December 11.

This squad announcement signals renewed hope for Nigerian football fans eager to see the Super Eagles reclaim their continental glory. With key decisions on player selection happening now, your favorite stars could make the cut or be replaced by rising talents. The team’s performance will boost national pride and foster community spirit as Nigeria competes on a major international stage. Strong support from the Federation means a well-prepared team that could inspire future youth players and football enthusiasts.

Source: Legit Nigeria
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Quote of the Day

“One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised.”

— Chinua Achebe