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Welcome to NowNowNaija! Nigeria faces a dire security crisis as mass kidnappings escalate. Here's the latest on school closures and government responses.

TOP STORY

Terrorists Kidnap 227 in Niger, Schools Shut Nationwide

Armed groups abducted 227 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State, prompting immediate school closures in Katsina, Plateau, and several other states. The government and security agencies are racing to rescue the hostages amid rising violence targeting schools. National security talks between Nigerian and US officials are also underway to tackle terrorism and violence.

This intensifying wave of kidnappings affects communities across northern Nigeria as parents face the agony of missing children and disrupted education. Immediate school closures mean students lose classroom time, while families live in fear. Efforts to overhaul outdated firearm laws and strengthen community policing could alter the security landscape, but for now, the insecurity threatens daily life and the safety of your community and children. Stay alert and support security advisories.

Source: Thisdaylive
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Market Trends at a Glance

USD/NGN

1449.77

▼ 0.30%

GBP/NGN

1899.44

▲ 0.22%

EUR/NGN

1669.98

▼ 0.56%

Gold - Oz ($)

4062.80

▲ 0.16%

Brent Oil ($)

62.47

▼ 1.44%

BTC-USD

83983.91

▼ 3.06%

ETH-USD

2734.69

▼ 3.43%

USDT-USD

1.00

▼ 0.05%

BNB-USD

828.06

▼ 4.42%

SOL-USD

126.25

▼ 5.44%

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

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Politics and Economy

DSS Transfers Nnamdi Kanu to Sokoto Prison Facility

The Department of State Services moved Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB, to the Nigerian Custodial Centre in Sokoto. This transfer has complicated his ongoing appeal against a life sentence for terrorism. Traditional rulers and US-based groups reject terrorism claims, calling him a freedom fighter and disputing allegations tied to foreign missions.

You may find this transfer affects how accessible Kanu is to his lawyers, family, and supporters, given Sokoto’s distance from Abuja where most legal activities occur. The move raises questions about fair access to justice during his appeal process and highlights ongoing tensions in Nigeria's judiciary and ethnic conflicts. Traditional leaders’ appeals for clemency and US advocacy groups’ rejection of some charges add pressure for a broader national dialogue about justice and national unity.

Source: Thisdaylive
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What else is happening:

  • Minister Mohammed Idris urged Nigerians to fight insecurity by closing ranks, stressing national unity is essential to support security forces and protect vulnerable communities.

  • Vice President Kashim Shettima departed Abuja to represent President at G20, seeking international partnerships on trade, security, and African priorities.

  • The NUC exposed 32 fake honorary degrees, urging new legislation to criminalise illicit awards and protect university credibility for students and employers.

Tech and Business

Dana Motors Drives Nigeria’s Electric Vehicle Future

At the 2025 Abuja International Motor Fair, Dana Motors unveiled a new lineup of locally assembled electric and CNG vehicles, including EV9, EV5, MPVs, and Mini EVs. The showcase highlighted Nigeria's growing capabilities in producing advanced, eco-friendly transportation solutions.

This means more sustainable and affordable travel options for Nigerian drivers, with cleaner vehicles tailored for local roads. Dana Motors’ efforts also support job creation and skill development in automotive technology across the country. For consumers and communities, it signals a shift toward greener mobility that aligns with government priorities and global environmental goals.

Source: Thisdaylive
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FG Pushes Nigeria-First Policy to Expand Local Industry

The federal government is doubling down on the Nigeria-First policy to strengthen local manufacturing and increase non-oil exports. At the 2025 Nigerian International Trade Fair in Lagos, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment highlighted a 14% growth in non-oil exports, especially to African markets. Efforts include opening an air cargo corridor to connect Nigerian goods with 13 African countries eager for local products.

This means more opportunities for Nigerian small businesses to scale up and reach new customers across Africa, boosting jobs and income. You might see more local products like snacks, beauty goods, and fashion becoming widely available both at home and on the continent. The government is also working to improve trade infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, making it easier and more affordable for women entrepreneurs and small businesses to participate. These moves could help stabilize the economy, increase export earnings, and promote industrial growth in your community.

Source: Thisdaylive
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What else is happening:

  • Abia State expects improved urban transit and lower emissions as the government rolls out a fleet of electric buses sourced and deployed for commercial use.

  • New NERC rules require only CBN-licensed firms to collect electricity payments, limiting unauthorised bill agents and reshaping digital payment partnerships across utilities.

  • Small businesses will gain faster verification and reduced fraud risk with Timart's affordable enhanced POS system integrating directly with its business app for reconciliation.

Entertainment and Culture

Federal Government Postpones NAFEST 2025 Event

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has postponed the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) originally set for November 22, 2025, in Enugu State. This decision follows careful assessment of the national mood and growing insecurity in various parts of Nigeria.

This postponement means you will have to wait longer to experience the cultural showcase that brings together over 28 states, promoting unity and Nigeria’s rich heritage. The delay reflects sensitivity to recent national challenges, showing respect for those affected by insecurity. When rescheduled, the festival aims to offer a safer, more celebratory environment and reinforce a message of resilience and togetherness across communities.

Source: Thisdaylive
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The Social Feed:

  • Canon hosted an exclusive screening in Lagos that showcased Nora Awolowo’s short film, highlighting the visual strength of Racket Queen.

  • Funke Akindele staged a viral publicity stunt to promote her new movie, sparking public debate about fame tactics and creative marketing for Behind The Scenes.

Sports

Super Eagles Failure Demands President Tinubu’s Direct Action

Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign ended disastrously with a 5-4 penalty loss to DR Congo after a shaky run starting from a 1-1 draw against Lesotho in 2023. Experts and former officials blame mismanagement, unstable coaching, and unresolved player issues for the failure.

This failure hits Nigerian football fans hard, dimming hopes for a World Cup appearance that boosts national pride. The chaotic campaign highlights deep problems in management and player welfare, affecting the development of youth talent and the domestic league. President Tinubu is urged to personally step in to address the rot in football governance, which has ripple effects on community morale, youth sports, and Nigeria’s global sports reputation.

Source: Vanguard News
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Sports Spotlight:

  • Team Nigeria earned para powerlifting gold and wrestling victories at the Riyadh Solidarity Games, boosting morale ahead of continental meets.

  • Super Eagles players return to club action across Europe, providing opportunities to rebuild form and address post-World Cup weaknesses.

Quote of the Day

“The man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny.”

— Wole Soyinka

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