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Welcome to NowNowNaija! President Tinubu calls on Nigerian youths to innovate and dream big, launching new programs to support their growth.
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Tinubu Launches Youth Academy Urging Innovation
President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the Nigerian Youth Academy, encouraging young people to embrace innovation and think ambitiously. The initiative includes new grants and skill-building programs designed to empower Nigeria’s youth across various sectors.
This launch opens new doors for Nigerian youth who aspire to create and lead through innovation. With access to grants and skills training, young Nigerians can now better pursue entrepreneurial ventures and career development. Communities across the country stand to benefit from a generation better prepared for the challenges of the future, thanks to this support and encouragement from the government.
Source: Punch
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Market Trends at a Glance
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Politics and Economy
ECOWAS Praises Nigeria for Stopping Benin Coup
ECOWAS has commended Nigeria for quickly intervening to halt a military coup attempt in Benin Republic. The regional bloc highlighted Nigeria's action as a model for protecting democracy in West Africa.
This intervention strengthens regional security and shows Nigeria's key role in maintaining stability across West Africa. For Nigerians, it means a safer neighborhood and stronger diplomatic influence. It also signals to potential coup plotters that democratic governance will be defended firmly, which could reduce future instability near Nigeria's borders.
Source: The Guardian
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What else is happening:
NSCDC uncovered a major human trafficking syndicate and rescued 14 women, underlining urgent needs for prosecutions, victim support, and tightened surveillance.
ECOWAS declared a regional state of emergency to coordinate responses to spreading coups, raising concerns about stability and military responses across West Africa.
Federal Government told a US delegation that current security challenges are complex and not driven by religion, emphasizing governance and law enforcement responses.
Tech and Business
Nigerian Shippers Launch Digital Content System
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has introduced a new Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS) to improve maritime administration. This digital platform launched in Abuja aims to simplify operations and boost efficiency in Nigeria’s trade sector.
This upgrade will make it easier for you and businesses to handle shipping documents and communications smoothly, reducing delays and errors in maritime trade. It supports Nigeria's move towards digital transformation, which could lower costs and speed up cargo processing at ports. Over time, this can enhance Nigeria's competitiveness in global shipping and trade.
Source: New Telegraph
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Senate Confronts Aviation Minister Over Ticket Price Surges
The Nigerian Senate has formally condemned recent increases in domestic airfares. They summoned Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, along with airline operators and regulators, to explain the sharp rise in ticket costs affecting travelers across the country.
This development means you may soon see government action aimed at controlling airfare hikes, which strain travel budgets for families and businesses. The Senate’s move signals pressure on airlines to reconsider pricing strategies. If successful, this could lead to more affordable flights, easing travel burdens and supporting mobility for work and leisure nationwide.
Source: The Guardian
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What else is happening:
President Tinubu launched coordinated digital training and enterprise programmes to equip young Nigerians for jobs and entrepreneurship through the Nigeria Youth Academy.
Ford warns Western automakers face existential pressure from rapidly expanding Chinese competitors, reshaping global car markets and pricing dynamics.
Intensifying US export controls heighten the US-China AI chip tensions, significantly affecting global supply chains and research collaboration prospects.
Entertainment and Culture
Azealia Banks Criticizes Afrobeats Stars Rema and Burna Boy
American rapper Azealia Banks recently shared her strong opinions about Afrobeats music and Nigerian culture, naming Mavin Records’ Rema and Burna Boy as artists she dislikes. Her remarks sparked controversy and drew attention from fans and the music industry.
This highlights ongoing conversations about Afrobeats' global influence and how international artists perceive Nigeria’s music scene. For fans and industry insiders in Nigeria, it’s a moment to consider how Afrobeats is evolving and interacting with worldwide audiences. Such opinions can shape public debates and impact how Nigerian music is viewed abroad. It also encourages local artists and fans to reflect on their cultural identity amidst global scrutiny.
Source: Legit Nigeria
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The Social Feed:
A young woman's viral clip shows her siblings causing chaos during a private cinema outing, prompting wide online debate about parenting and youth behaviour.
The MFM media team visited The Nation's Lagos office to seek stronger collaboration, aiming to expand media partnerships and outreach across faith communities.
⚽ Sports
Team Nigeria Arrives in Angola for Africa Youth Games
Nigeria’s first group of athletes landed in Angola on December 8, 2025, to compete in the 4th Africa Youth Games. This marks the start of their journey to showcase talent and compete with their peers across the continent.
This arrival kicks off an important opportunity for young Nigerian athletes to gain experience on an international stage, boosting their development and Nigeria’s sports profile. For communities across Nigeria, this event represents pride and hope for future sports success, inspiring youths to pursue their dreams. The games also help foster unity and national spirit as fans rally behind Team Nigeria’s efforts in Angola.
Source: Blueprint Newspapers
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Sports Spotlight:
Speculation over Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool future could reshape Liverpool’s attack and accelerate transfer-market activity among wealthy clubs during the midseason window.
As the Gwagwalada tournament concludes, football leaders will receive merit awards, highlighting governance and stakeholder recognition within the country's football administration.
Quote of the Day
“Do not fear to dream big dreams; for only big dreams have the power to move the hearts of others.” — Ben Okri