Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to the Naturenex summary of major newspaper headlines across the country for Friday, April 18, 2025.
1. Presidency Addresses Calls for Tinubu’s Return Amid Northern Insecurity
The Nigerian presidency has reassured citizens that President Bola Tinubu remains actively involved in the country’s governance, despite currently being in France. This assurance comes on the heels of recent appeals by Peter Obi and other Nigerians urging his return due to worsening insecurity in the northern region.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, issued a statement on April 17, affirming that the president’s absence is both temporary and consistent with the earlier communicated duration of about two weeks. Onanuga added that Tinubu is in constant contact with key officials and has issued directives to security agencies regarding the unrest. He is expected to resume official duties at the Presidential Villa after the Easter holidays.
2. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Alleges Attack on Family Home, Points Fingers at Akpabio
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has confirmed an armed assault on her family’s residence. According to a statement from her Chief Press Secretary, Arogbonlo Israel, the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, appears to be a direct backlash against her outspoken position on Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
3. House Speaker Abbas Describes National Assembly as Underfunded
During a policy event in Abuja supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, through his representative Amadi Victor Obuzor, stated that the legislative arm receives the least financial support among Nigeria’s three branches of government. He highlighted how this underfunding affects legislative performance, contrary to public perception.
4. Foreign Minister Tuggar Says Ambassadorial Nominee List Dominated by Political Appointees
Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, has revealed that the delay in ambassadorial appointments is due to President Tinubu’s prioritization of economic reforms. He stated in an interview with PREMIUM TIMES that the submitted list contains more political nominees than career diplomats. Despite the delay, Tuggar assured that the appointments would be finalized soon.
5. Adelabu Says Over 80 Million Nigerians Lack Stable Power Supply
At a ministerial briefing on April 17 in Abuja, Minister of Power, Adedayo Adelabu, disclosed that while approximately 150 million Nigerians now have access to electricity, 80 million still face inconsistent power supply. He attributed progress in electrification to the “Mission 300” initiative led by the World Bank and African Development Bank. However, Adelabu stressed that improving the reliability of power access remains a challenge.
6. Court Acquits Young Boy in Viral Peter Obi Convoy Image
A Lagos court has discharged Alabi Quadri, the teenager widely recognized for standing in front of Peter Obi’s campaign convoy during the 2023 elections. Quadri was previously held in Kirikiri Prison on charges of armed robbery and conspiracy. The court found no evidence to support the claims and ruled that he had no case to answer. The case was expedited following legal interventions by human rights advocate Inibehe Effiong and the DPP.
7. Manchester United Edge Lyon to Reach Europa League Semi-Finals
In a thrilling Europa League clash at Old Trafford, Manchester United managed to edge past Lyon 5-4 in the second leg, sealing a 7-6 aggregate victory. The match reached its climax when Harry Maguire scored a dramatic stoppage-time header in the 120+1 minute, sending the Red Devils through to the semi-finals.
8. Flying Eagles Squad for U-20 AFCON Announced by Coach Zubairu
Aliyu Zubairu, head coach of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, has unveiled a 24-man squad for the upcoming U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The team features a mix of domestic and overseas-based talents, including captain Daniel Bameyi, Precious Benjamin, and Emmanuel Chukwu. Nigeria, aiming for an eighth continental title, will kick off their campaign on May 1 in Cairo against Tunisia.
9. Iyabo Ojo and Ex-Husband Unite for Daughter’s Wedding
Nollywood star Iyabo Ojo and her former husband, Ademidun Ojo, reunited to celebrate the traditional wedding of their daughter, Priscilla, to Tanzanian singer Juma Jux. A viral video from the event shows the ex-couple joyfully dancing together in matching Yoruba attire, symbolizing unity on their daughter’s special day. The celebration took place in Lagos, drawing notable guests from the entertainment industry.
10. Angela Okorie Criticizes Ex-Boyfriend, Vows to Keep Next Relationship Private
Angela Okorie, a Nollywood actress, has declared that she will no longer flaunt her relationships online unless she is married. Sharing her thoughts on Instagram, Okorie revealed she ended a recent relationship due to alleged infidelity. Referring to her ex as a “damaged man,” she expressed regret for being involved with someone who, according to her, pretended to be someone he wasn’t.
That’s a wrap on today’s top headlines from Naturenex. Stay informed with more updates and stories. See you tomorrow!
