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TOP STORY

Al-Habibiyyah Disburses N30m Zakat to Empower Poor

Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society recently held its fifth National Zakat and Waqf Day in Abuja, distributing around N30 million in cash and tools to 140 indigent Nigerians. The effort includes beneficiaries of different faiths and aims to reduce poverty by providing support across health, education, and entrepreneurship.

This program directly helps you and your community by providing resources that can lift families out of poverty—whether through health, education, or work tools that enable entrepreneurship. Including people of various faiths highlights a commitment to unity and shared progress. Over time, these efforts can create lasting economic stability and reduce inequality, making your neighborhoods safer and more prosperous.

Source: Tribune
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Market Trends at a Glance

USD/NGN

1363.34

▼ 0.35%

GBP/NGN

1847.17

▼ 1.08%

EUR/NGN

1607.32

▼ 0.59%

Gold - Oz ($)

4838.70

▼ 1.66%

Brent Oil ($)

67.87

▼ 2.29%

BTC-USD

64817.04

▼ 11.23%

ETH-USD

1906.97

▼ 11.03%

USDT-USD

1.00

▲ 0.09%

BNB-USD

619.33

▼ 11.25%

SOL-USD

77.69

▼ 15.59%

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

Politics and Economy

Tinubu Uses First Lady’s Faith to Renew US Ties

President Bola Tinubu leveraged First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s role as a Christian pastor to ease tensions with the US under former President Donald Trump. At the 2026 US National Prayer Breakfast, Trump acknowledged Oluremi warmly, signaling a thaw after recent diplomatic strains. Trump also reaffirmed US counterterrorism support in Nigeria, highlighting joint efforts against militants targeting Christians.

This development means Nigerian-American relations are improving at a time when cooperation against terrorism is critical. For Nigerians, it could lead to increased security collaboration and stronger diplomatic support. More closely aligned efforts may boost regional stability and protect vulnerable communities from militant threats. However, the US administration’s changing posture means Nigerians should watch for further shifts in policy that could affect bilateral ties and funding.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

  • A major shift in Kano State politics unfolds as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf defects from NNPP to another party, altering political dynamics and potentially impacting the state's future political alignment.

  • The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria warns that it will not recognize any elections conducted under the newly confirmed INEC chairman, raising critical concerns about faith, legitimacy, and stability in Nigeria’s democratic process.

  • NAPTIP is intensifying the fight against child trafficking by introducing anti-trafficking clubs in schools, aiming to educate youths and reduce vulnerability to traffickers across Nigeria.

Tech and Business

Telecom Giants Shift Focus to Data Amid Slowed Growth

Nigeria’s mobile subscriber numbers are no longer growing fast, so telecom companies are investing heavily in data infrastructure like 4G networks, fibre cables, and data centres to meet rising internet demand. Data use is surging as more Nigerians stream videos, engage on social media, and rely on digital services. MTN and Airtel lead in expanding network capabilities and launching new services like fibre-to-the-home and 5G sites.

This means you and your community should expect better and faster internet access as telecom companies prioritize improving data services over attracting new subscribers. With more investments—over $1 billion in 2025 alone—broadband availability is increasing, helping people work remotely, attend online classes, and conduct digital payments more smoothly. However, there are still challenges like rural coverage gaps and infrastructure issues that need attention to ensure these improvements reach everyone across Nigeria.

Source: Business News Nigeria
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FG and World Bank Boost Energy and Agriculture Collaboration

Nigeria’s Finance Minister Wale Edun met with World Bank’s Anna Bjerde to discuss partnerships aimed at expanding reliable electricity, strengthening agriculture, and improving trade flows. The talks focused on accelerating digital infrastructure and attracting private sector investments to build a competitive economy.

This collaboration could mean more stable electricity and better support for farmers, which would improve business operations and food availability for you and your community. Faster trade flows and stronger digital infrastructure can open new opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers alike. It signals rising confidence in Nigeria’s economic reforms, potentially attracting more investments that will create jobs and raise living standards.

Source: This Day Live
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What else is happening:

  • Nigeria Police dismantle a suspected international cyber scam centre in Delta State, arresting seven people for large-scale online investment fraud affecting victims in Nigeria, the UK, and other countries.

  • The NADDC pushes for a ban on tyre and battery imports to promote local manufacturing and strengthen the country’s automotive technology and related industries throughout the supply chain.

Entertainment and Culture

Wizkid, Asake, Davido Lead Detty December Streams

Apple Music’s ‘Detty December’ charts reveal that Nigeria’s top stars Wizkid, Asake, and Davido dominated music streams across Sub-Saharan Africa during the 2025 festive season. Davido’s hit ‘Galorizzy’ emerged as the season’s biggest song, while new artists like Young Jonn and Fola also gained major attention.

This dominance means that these artists continue to shape the Nigerian and African music scenes, influencing what you hear at parties, weddings, and social gatherings. The fusion of Afrobeats and Amapiano is defining the sound of celebrations across the continent, showing that Nigerian music remains central to African culture. For music fans, it offers fresh hits to add to your playlists and highlights upcoming stars to watch in 2026.

Source: Tribune
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The Social Feed:

  • The ACFTA Fest 2026 announces a star-studded exhibition match in Abuja where Super Eagles Legends will compete against African football icons, blending entertainment and sports during the major continental event.

  • Prominent Nigerians including Funke Akindele and Shaffy Bello join Chude Jideonwo for a Lagos launch of the memoir ‘How Depression Saved My Life’, focusing conversation on mental health issues within the creative industry.

Sports

Ademola Lookman Scores Debut Goal for Atletico Madrid

Ademola Lookman made an impressive start at Atletico Madrid by scoring on his debut and assisting another goal in a 5–0 Copa del Rey win over Real Betis. His goal was also the 100th of his professional career, marking a strong beginning with his new club after transferring from Atalanta.

Lookman’s debut performance will inspire many Nigerian football fans and aspiring athletes by showing the impact of Nigerian talent on a major European stage. His €40 million move and instant success strengthen Atletico's hopes in domestic and international competitions this season. For communities back home, his success highlights the growing presence of Nigerian players in top leagues, boosting national pride and spotlighting football as a promising career path.

Source: Business News Nigeria
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Sports Spotlight:

  • Niger State Sports Commission threatens to withdraw Niger Tornadoes FC from the NPFL over alleged politicisation of league policies, raising concerns about governance and fairness in Nigerian professional football.

  • Quadri Aruna aims to reclaim the continental title as he leads the Nigerian team to the 2026 ITTF Africa Cup, setting up a high-stakes rivalry against defending champion Omar Assar in Libya.

  • Stanley Nwabali bids farewell to Chippa United, marking the end of his time with the South African club as speculation grows around his next move in professional football.

Quote of the Day

“No matter how long the night, the day will surely break.”
— Nigerian Proverb

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