Welcome to NowNowNaija! Nigeria’s Army is taking decisive steps to strengthen its forces amid ongoing security threats. Here’s what the plan means for national safety and your community.

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Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shuaibu announced a major recruitment drive to add 24,000 new soldiers to Nigeria’s military. Starting with 12,000 recruits trained within six months, this initiative includes new training centres and aims to enhance tactical skills for complex security challenges.

This recruitment boost means more military personnel will be deployed to protect communities and tackle rising insecurity across Nigeria. For citizens, it signals intensified efforts to restore peace and safety in affected regions. The focus on modern training means soldiers will be better prepared to respond effectively, which could improve local security and stability in the months ahead.

Source: Independent NG
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed his trips to South Africa and Angola to focus on escalating security issues. His decision follows recent attacks by bandits on church worshippers in Kwara State and the kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State. The president has ordered the deployment of military and police forces to Kwara, aiming to curb violence and ensure the safe return of abducted victims.

This move means you may see an increased security presence in Kwara and nearby areas as authorities try to restore safety. It impacts travel plans for officials and signals the government's heightened attention on insecurity affecting communities. If you have loved ones in these states, this could mean more patrols and efforts to protect schools and places of worship. The focus on rescuing abducted schoolgirls also highlights ongoing challenges with banditry and the government's commitment to responding swiftly.

Source: The Nation Newspaper
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What else is happening:

PalmPay has completed Nigeria’s first live transaction on the National Payment Stack (NPS), a new digital payments system developed by the Nigeria Inter-bank Settlement System (NIBSS). The transaction took place in partnership with Wema Bank on November 7, 2025, marking a major step in faster and more secure digital payments nationwide.

This breakthrough means you can expect quicker, safer, and more seamless digital payments across Nigeria soon. The NPS offers real-time settlements with advanced security features like digital signatures and multi-factor authentication. As more banks and fintech companies join this system, it will simplify everyday transactions, boost financial inclusion, and support Nigeria's goal of becoming a regional hub for secure digital payments.

Source: The Guardian
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In the first half of 2025, Nigeria spent $2.3 billion on external debt payments, nearly matching the $2.25 billion it raised from a recent 10-year Eurobond. The largest share went to the IMF, followed by Eurobond holders and multilateral lenders. Payments to China’s banks declined, reflecting shifts in borrowing.

This level of debt servicing means much of Nigeria’s limited public funds are used to pay off creditors instead of investing in infrastructure or social programs. With external debt costs closely matching new borrowings, fiscal pressure is rising. Nigerians may face tighter budgets and slower economic growth unless government reforms improve revenue collection and reduce dependency on costly loans.

Source: Tribune
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What else is happening:

Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the playing of President Bola Tinubu’s campaign song "On Your Mandate" instead of Nigeria’s national anthem during the recent judges conference. Atiku called the act reckless and an affront to national dignity, highlighting its clash with the judiciary’s role and the principles it upholds.

This incident raises concerns about the independence and impartiality of Nigeria’s judiciary, suggesting political interference at a high level. For citizens, it signals a troubling blurring of lines between state institutions and partisan interests, which could undermine trust in legal protections and fair justice. The event may also spark wider debate about the respect for national symbols and the rule of law in Nigeria’s democracy.

Source: Leadership
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The Social Feed:

Victor Osimhen has been diagnosed with a moderate muscle strain in his left posterior thigh after an MRI scan. The injury, sustained during the 2026 World Cup Playoffs final against DR Congo, will keep him sidelined for three to four weeks while he undergoes treatment.

This means you might see Osimhen missing upcoming club matches and national team fixtures, including crucial qualifiers. His absence leaves a significant gap for the Super Eagles and Napoli, affecting team strategies and morale. Fans will anxiously track his recovery, hopeful for a strong return in time for future competitions. This injury also underlines the physical demands placed on top Nigerian footballers competing internationally.

Source: Thisdaylive
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Sports Spotlight:

Quote of the Day

“The greatness of a nation is not in the strength of its weapons but in the justice of its actions.”

— Nnamdi Azikiwe