Nation Nigeria News, Abuja (2026)

04/05/2026

South Africa raises fuel prices amid deepening global oil crisis

is set to implement a sharp increase in fuel prices from May 2026, driven by rising global crude oil costs and escalating geopolitical tensions.

The adjustment affects both petrol and diesel, with authorities citing sustained pressure in international energy markets as a key factor behind the hike.

The increase comes as global oil prices surge amid instability in major supply routes and producing regions, worsening the cost burden on consumers and businesses.

Analysts warn that higher fuel prices could trigger a ripple effect across the economy, leading to increased transport costs, higher food prices, and broader inflationary pressures.

The development adds to economic challenges facing South Africa, with households expected to feel the impact in the coming weeks as the new rates take effect.

04/05/2026

ADC, Atiku allies dismiss reports of defection talks with NDC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have denied reports suggesting ongoing defection talks with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The denial follows claims that contacts had been established between the groups, with speculation of a possible midweek announcement regarding a political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

Sources within both camps, however, described the reports as unfounded, insisting that no formal discussions or agreements are in place.

The clarification comes amid heightened political activity and shifting alliances as parties and key figures begin early positioning for the next general election cycle.

04/05/2026

Oil prices spike as Iran–UAE tensions escalate, US warships move into Hormuz

Global oil prices jumped sharply on Monday after fresh attacks linked to Iran targeted energy infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, raising fears of supply disruption.

A drone strike reportedly triggered a fire at an energy facility in Fujairah, a key oil hub, shortly after United States warships entered the strategic Strait of Hormuz as part of a new naval es**rt operation.

The escalation pushed benchmark Brent crude up by more than 5%, with prices climbing above $113 per barrel, while U.S. crude also recorded significant gains.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supply, handling roughly a fifth of the world’s oil shipments. Any disruption in the area typically triggers immediate market reactions due to fears of shortages.

Reports also indicate increased military activity in the region, including U.S. naval deployments to secure shipping lanes and counter threats to commercial vessels, further heightening geopolitical tensions.

Analysts warn that continued instability could keep oil prices elevated, with broader implications for global inflation and energy markets if the situation worsens.

04/05/2026

Ezekwesili urges Tinubu to return, act over attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

Former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to cut short his foreign trip and urgently address the reported attacks and killings of Nigerians in South Africa.

Ezekwesili urged the president to prioritise the safety of citizens abroad, insisting that the federal government must take decisive steps to protect Nigerians and respond to the escalating situation.

She also called for stronger diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to curb the violence and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The appeal comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, where past incidents of xenophobic attacks have strained relations between both countries.

Government officials are yet to issue a detailed response to her call.

04/05/2026

NNPC partners Chinese firms to revive Warri, Port Harcourt refineries

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two Chinese firms for the restart, operation, and expansion of the Warri Refinery and Port Harcourt Refinery.

According to the company, the partnership is aimed at restoring refining capacity, improving efficiency, and boosting domestic fuel production.

The deal is expected to address longstanding challenges that have left the refineries operating below capacity for years, forcing Nigeria to rely heavily on imported petroleum products despite being a major crude oil producer.

NNPC said the collaboration will also support expansion plans, potentially increasing output and strengthening energy security in the country.

Further details of the agreement, including timelines and operational structure, are expected to be disclosed as implementation progresses.

04/05/2026

Tinubu declines pressure to back Desmond Elliot’s fourth-term bid — Sources

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly rejected attempts by political figures lobbying for a fourth-term bid for Lagos lawmaker Desmond Elliot ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to sources, multiple high-profile individuals approached the president at different times seeking his support for Elliot’s continued stay in the Lagos State House of Assembly, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

The president is said to have insisted on respecting the position of local party stakeholders in Surulere, who have backed a different candidate as part of moves to promote inclusivity and internal democracy.

Sources further revealed that Tinubu maintained a consistent stance, declining to impose Elliot on the constituency and emphasizing that the party’s primary process should determine the eventual candidate.

Despite the setbacks, Elliot is reportedly still exploring last-minute efforts to secure support before the party primaries, even as opposition to his fourth-term ambition grows within local political circles.

04/05/2026

Sowore criticises police over arrest of bloggers linked to Elumelu divorce report

Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has condemned the arrest of bloggers over a false report involving businessman Tony Elumelu, describing the action as unjustified.

Sowore argued that issues related to defamation or false publication are civil matters that should be handled in court, not through criminal arrests by the Nigeria Police Force.

He warned that using law enforcement to detain individuals over online publications could threaten freedom of expression and press freedom in the country.

The controversy follows reports that some bloggers were picked up by police after allegedly publishing unverified claims about Elumelu’s marriage, which were later disputed.

Authorities have yet to release full details of the arrests, but the development has sparked debate over the boundaries between misinformation, defamation, and criminal liability in Nigeria’s digital space.

04/05/2026

Iran issues 30-day ultimatum to US over naval blockade

Iran has given the United States a 30-day deadline to lift its naval blockade, escalating tensions in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The warning came from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which said US President Donald Trump must choose between what it described as an “impossible” military operation or accepting a “bad deal.”

The ultimatum is tied to a broader 14-point proposal submitted by Tehran, calling for an end to hostilities, removal of sanctions, and the lifting of the blockade affecting Iranian ports and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Despite a ceasefire reached earlier, both sides have struggled to agree on a lasting peace deal, with continued maritime tensions and mutual accusations of violations.

Washington has yet to fully accept the proposal, with Trump reportedly expressing doubts about reaching an agreement, even as diplomatic efforts continue.

04/05/2026

CBN abolishes card maintenance fees on naira cards

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed banks to stop charging maintenance fees on naira-denominated debit and credit cards.

Under the new directive, customers will no longer pay routine maintenance charges on their naira cards, while virtual cards will continue to be issued and maintained at no cost.

The move is aimed at reducing banking costs for customers and encouraging greater adoption of electronic payment channels across the country.

Banks are expected to comply with the directive immediately, marking a shift in policy that could provide relief for millions of account holders who previously incurred periodic card maintenance charges.

04/05/2026

Israel greenlights multi-billion dollar fighter jet purchase from US

Israel has approved a multi-billion-dollar deal to acquire two combat squadrons of fighter jets from the United States, according to an official statement on Sunday.

The agreement is part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its air power and maintain a strategic military edge in the region. While specific aircraft models were not immediately detailed, such deals typically involve advanced fighter platforms and long-term defence cooperation.

The purchase is expected to further deepen military ties between Israel and the United States, which has long been a key supplier of defence equipment to the country.

Officials say the new jets will enhance operational readiness and expand the capabilities of the Israeli Air Force amid evolving security challenges.

04/05/2026

NRC raises alarm over rising attacks on Abuja–Kaduna train corridor

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expressed concern over increasing attacks on its train services along the Abuja–Kaduna railway, following a recent incident where suspected villagers threw stones at a moving train.

According to the corporation, the attack posed serious safety risks to passengers and staff, with potential for injuries and damage to railway infrastructure. The Abuja–Kaduna route remains one of Nigeria’s busiest rail corridors, widely used as a safer alternative to road travel.

The NRC warned that repeated incidents of vandalism and hostility toward train operations could disrupt services and undermine public confidence in rail transportation. It also called on communities along the corridor to support efforts to protect critical national infrastructure.

Authorities are reportedly reviewing security measures in affected areas to prevent further occurrences, while investigations into the latest incident are ongoing.

04/05/2026

Omakwu makes emotional appeal to Wike over proposed Jabi Lake land allocation

Senior pastor of the Family Worship Centre, Sarah Omakwu, has made an emotional appeal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging him not to allocate land around Jabi Lake for private development.

In a widely circulated moment, the cleric was seen kneeling as she pleaded with the minister, stressing that the Jabi Lake area is a public space meant for recreation and environmental preservation, not private ownership.

Omakwu warned that converting the lakeside into private estates could deny residents access to one of Abuja’s few natural relaxation spots and potentially harm the ecosystem. She called on authorities to prioritize public interest and protect green spaces within the capital city.

Her appeal has sparked reactions from residents and civil society groups, with many echoing concerns about urban development gradually encroaching on public recreational areas in Abuja.

Officials of the FCT administration have yet to issue a detailed response on the specific concerns raised.

Nation Nigeria News

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share