Good morning, Nigeria! Welcome to the Naturenex roundup of today’s major headlines making waves across the country, Friday, 6th June, 2025.
1. Dangote Commends Tinubu’s Economic Policies, Predicts National Gratitude
Renowned industrialist and Chairman of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold and promising. Speaking in Lagos at the commissioning of the Lekki Deep Sea Port access road, Dangote highlighted the President’s initiatives like the removal of fuel subsidies, tax reforms, and the Nigeria First policy as transformative steps. He asserted, “By the time Nigeria starts reaping the benefits of the economic policies introduced by the Tinubu government, everyone would want to rush to Aso Rock to appreciate the President.” He further praised Tinubu for pioneering a self-sufficiency initiative unprecedented in Africa.
2. Wike Refutes Claims Of Cabal Controlling Tinubu’s Presidency
Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed rumours that a cabal is dictating affairs within President Tinubu’s government. Delivering the 2025 OAU Distinguished Personality Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Wike declared that the President remains firmly in control. He lauded Tinubu’s bold leadership, contrasting it with previous administrations which, according to Wike, lacked the courage to implement decisive policies like ending fuel subsidies and unifying exchange rates.
3. Akwa Ibom Residents Reject Governor Eno’s Proposed Defection To APC
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State faced open opposition during a Town Square Meeting in Ikot Abasi, as residents vocally rejected his plan to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite Eno’s assertion that he had consulted widely and believed it was time for Akwa Ibom to align with the federal ruling party, the crowd responded with a resounding “No!” Undeterred, the governor urged them to embrace national politics and back Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio ahead of the 2027 elections.
4. Pat Utomi Threatens Self-Exile Over DSS Court Action
Former presidential candidate, Pat Utomi, has condemned a fresh move by the Department of State Services (DSS) to stop him from holding rallies or making public statements about forming a shadow government. The DSS, citing security concerns, filed an application at the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking an injunction against Utomi and his associates. In response, Utomi told Punch, “If they are ready to shut my voice, I will leave the country,” expressing frustration at continued attempts to silence him.
5. Tinubu To Police: Power Is For Protection, Not Intimidation
President Tinubu has cautioned the Nigerian Police Force against using their authority to intimidate citizens. Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the 2nd annual IGP’s Award and Commendation ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the importance of professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, urging officers to prioritize public protection over harassment.
6. Netherlands To Return 119 Benin Bronzes To Nigeria
In a landmark development, the Netherlands has agreed to repatriate 119 Benin bronzes looted during the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom. The Dutch Embassy in Nigeria confirmed that the artefacts will arrive the week of June 16, with a formal handover slated for June 21 at the National Museum in Lagos. These historic artefacts will eventually be housed in their ancestral home at the National Museum in Benin City. The Dutch decision adds momentum to a growing international push for the return of Africa’s looted cultural treasures.
7. Falz Clears Air On Bobrisky Controversy
Popular Nigerian rapper, Falz (Folarin Falana), has addressed speculations linking him with crossdresser Bobrisky. In a recent Arise TV interview, Falz categorically denied any personal relationship, stating his only intention was to offer help during Bobrisky’s legal troubles. He clarified, “His case is not exceptional in any way,” while updating that the defamation suit against critic VeryDarkMan remains ongoing, with no defense yet entered by the defendant.
8. Peter Okoye Blasts Brothers Over EFCC Allegations
Musician Peter Okoye has fired back at his brothers, Paul and Jude Okoye, amid accusations of submitting false statements to the EFCC regarding the operations of their former record label, Northside Music Ltd. Jude’s lawyer had told the Federal High Court that Peter’s claims about being denied access to company accounts and royalties were fabricated. Responding via Instagram, Peter recalled past controversies involving the label and artists like May D and Cynthia Morgan, stating that “Mohbad’s issue led to this whole madness,” and vowing to continue speaking out against injustice.
9. Saudi Club Al-Hilal Tables Contract Offer For Victor Osimhen
Saudi football giants, Al-Hilal, have officially presented a contract offer to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. After an impressive loan spell at Galatasaray, where he scored 25 goals in 29 games, Osimhen has attracted interest from top European clubs including Chelsea and Manchester United. With Napoli’s new manager Antonio Conte reportedly sidelining the 26-year-old in favour of Romelu Lukaku, Osimhen’s future is now the subject of intense transfer speculation, with the financial power of Al-Hilal offering stiff competition to European suitors.
10. Four Nigerians Named In Global Top 300 Footballers List
The latest CIES Football Observatory rankings for the 2024/2025 season have placed four Nigerian players among the top 300 footballers worldwide. Fulham’s Alex Iwobi leads the pack, ranked 37th globally and 12th among wingers. Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, reigning African Footballer of the Year, follows at 48th. Victor Osimhen ranks 159th, while Fulham defender Calvin Bassey comes in at 257th. Their impressive performances in European leagues have solidified Nigeria’s growing influence in global football.
That wraps up today’s top headlines. Stay tuned for more verified updates at Naturenex. See you tomorrow.
