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Welcome to NowNowNaija! Nigeria stands at a crossroads as Tinubu unleashes new security chiefs, cyberattacks surge, global alliances shift, and the Super Eagles chase AFCON glory—each move quietly deciding whether stability or chaos wins next.

TOP STORY

Tinubu Intensifies Fight to End Terrorism in Nigeria

President Tinubu has made a strong push to eliminate terrorism by appointing seasoned military leaders, including Lt. General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence. This move is part of a wider strategy that involves coordinated military operations, intelligence sharing, and international partnerships, aiming to dismantle terrorist networks and reclaim affected regions like the Sambisa Forest.

This means you can expect increased military actions targeting terrorist groups across northern Nigeria, bringing hope for improved safety in affected communities. The government's focus on cutting off terrorists’ resources and backing better security coordination can boost national stability. For families caught in conflict zones, efforts to support displaced persons and restore peace offer a much-needed reprieve and renewed optimism for the future.

Source: The Nation Newspaper
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Market Trends at a Glance

USD/NGN

1418.28

▼ 0.38%

GBP/NGN

1907.47

▼ 0.53%

EUR/NGN

1652.45

▼ 0.39%

Gold - Oz ($)

4643.90

▲ 1.19%

Brent Oil ($)

65.23

▼ 0.37%

BTC-USD

95183.63

▲ 4.38%

ETH-USD

3334.58

▲ 7.83%

USDT-USD

1.00

▲ 0.06%

BNB-USD

941.70

▲ 4.01%

SOL-USD

144.81

▲ 4.07%

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

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Politics and Economy

FG Outspends Biafra Lobbyists to Influence US Policy

Nigeria’s federal government is spending $750,000 monthly on top Washington lobbyists to counter the Biafra separatist narrative in the US. This move follows President Trump’s threat last year to intervene militarily in Nigeria. The government aims to secure US support on visa policy, trade, security cooperation, and combatting jihadist violence, overshadowing the Biafra group’s smaller $66,000-a-month lobbying effort advocating for sanctions and independence.

This lobbying battle directly shapes how the US views Nigeria’s internal security and religious conflicts, affecting diplomatic support and military aid. For Nigerians, it means potentially stronger US-backed counter-terrorism efforts and better international trade terms, protecting different religious communities. However, heightened tensions between Abuja and separatist groups risk prolonging unrest. The outcome of this US engagement will influence Nigeria’s stability and foreign relations for years, including possible military equipment deliveries worth nearly $1 billion.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

  • The Independent National Electoral Commission recommits to conducting fair, credible polls and launches early preparations for off-cycle and future national elections, aiming to restore voter confidence and electoral transparency.

  • ASUU demands the immediate resignation and apology from Isa Yuguda over questions surrounding his competence, integrity, and suitability as NOUN’s Pro-Chancellor, escalating tensions in Nigeria’s education sector.

  • A Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti nullifies the last PDP governorship primary, ordering the party to conduct a fresh election, thereby intensifying political uncertainty in Ekiti State ahead of the poll.

Tech and Business

Nigeria Ranks High in Africa’s Cyberattack Targets

Nigeria faced an average of 3,374 cyberattacks per organization weekly in November 2025, making it the second most targeted country in Africa after Angola. This surge is linked to the rapid growth of digital services like fintech, e-commerce, and government platforms, outpacing cybersecurity readiness. Despite a decrease in attacks across Africa overall, Nigeria’s exposure remains alarmingly high.

This rising wave of cyberattacks means you and your community are at greater risk of financial fraud, data breaches, and service disruptions, especially in banking and government services you rely on daily. Weak user awareness and insecure applications make it easier for attackers to exploit personal information and disrupt essential services. Strengthening cybersecurity habits and pushing for better protections in digital platforms can help reduce your vulnerability in this expanding digital landscape.

Source: This Day Live
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Tinubu Signs Major Economic Pact with UAE Boosting Trade

Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to deepen trade ties and cooperation in renewable energy, logistics, and digital trade. The deal includes zero tariffs on over 7,000 Nigerian export goods to the UAE and plans for joint events to attract global investment.

This agreement opens huge new opportunities for Nigerian businesses and workers, with duty-free access to a major global market. It also boosts investment in green energy and infrastructure, potentially driving job creation and economic growth. Nigerians involved in exporting goods, services, and investment sectors stand to benefit directly from eased trade barriers and stronger business ties to UAE, a key trading hub.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

  • Lagos State Government introduces a temporary reduction in the cost of replacing faded and damaged vehicle number plates from N30,000 to N20,000 for a three-month period, giving residents financial relief.

  • Telecom subscribers will now receive refunds for network failures on both voice and data, as the industry takes steps to address recurring customer service issues.

  • Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP), a privacy-focused blockchain project, aims to improve data privacy and enterprise applications by enabling AI and blockchain systems to process sensitive information securely.

Entertainment and Culture

Crown Troupe Marks 30 Years of Bold Performance

Three decades ago, a determined group of young Nigerian artists started Crown Troupe of Africa in a small Bariga living room with no instruments or costumes. Despite hardships, they mastered dance, acting, and storytelling, growing into a celebrated performing arts company that shaped many talents.

This story highlights the power of passion and resilience in the Nigerian arts scene, showing how humble beginnings in tough neighborhoods like Bariga can inspire transformative cultural expression. For artists and audiences alike, Crown Troupe’s journey underscores the importance of community support and commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich performance heritage. You may feel inspired to explore local theatre or support grassroots arts initiatives driving social change and creativity.

Source: The Nation Newspaper
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The Social Feed:

  • A widely shared video captures a last born calling a family meeting to address her siblings, creating a social media sensation and sparking lively responses about sibling dynamics in Nigerian families.

  • AFRIMA kicked off the new year with the ninth edition of the Africa Music Awards, bringing together the continent’s biggest stars and showcasing the evolving glitz and glamour of African entertainment.

Sports

Super Eagles Aim For Ninth AFCON Final Spot

Nigeria's Super Eagles face Morocco in the 2025 AFCON semi-final in Rabat, aiming to reach their ninth continental final. Both teams are unbeaten in the tournament, adding tension to the high-stakes match. Past encounters show a competitive rivalry, with each side seeking to advance and claim the trophy.

This match is more than just football; it brings national pride and unity to Nigerian fans everywhere. A win means the Super Eagles advance to their second straight final, putting them on par with Ghana for most AFCON final appearances. Success here can boost morale and inspire youth involvement in sports nationwide. For communities and supporters, the game is a moment to rally around the team and celebrate Nigerian excellence on the continent.

Source: Punch
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Sports Spotlight:

  • Atlas Lions coach Walid Regragui singles out three Super Eagles stars who could be decisive in the AFCON semi-final, admitting Iwobi, Osimhen, and Lookman pose a serious threat to Morocco's defence.

  • Alex Iwobi credits team unity for Nigeria’s strong performance, stating the AFCON squad's chemistry is instrumental as the Super Eagles face Morocco in a high-pressure clash.

Quote of the Day

“A nation is not secured by force alone, but by the trust its people place in those who lead it.” — Ayo Falade

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