Good morning Nigeria, and welcome to the Naturenex summary of leading headlines making the rounds in Nigerian newspapers for today, Monday, 9th June 2025.
1. Tinubu Set To Address National Assembly On Democracy Day
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to speak before a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12, as part of this year’s Democracy Day activities. According to reports gathered by Naturenex, the President will deliver his address at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, before both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
June 12 holds a special place in Nigeria’s history, marking the 1993 presidential election believed to be the nation’s freest and fairest, which was controversially annulled by then-military leader, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.).
In a statement by House of Representatives’ spokesperson Akin Rotimi on Sunday, the event was described as a moment of national reflection. The 2025 edition will carry the theme: “26 Years of Democracy: Renewing our Commitment to National Development.”
President Tinubu, who will serve as Special Guest of Honour, is expected to deliver a keynote address and confer National Honours on select lawmakers for their democratic contributions.
2. “Father And Son Things” – Sanwo-Olu Denies Rift With Tinubu
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has dismissed speculations about a fallout with President Bola Tinubu. Speaking to journalists after visiting the President’s residence alongside members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu said attempts to create division between him and the President were unfounded.
Recall that Sanwo-Olu’s absence at the Epe deep seaport road reconstruction flag-off and a viral video showing Tinubu apparently snubbing Sanwo-Olu’s handshake during a recent Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway event sparked rumours of a rift.
When questioned about it, Sanwo-Olu replied that their bond remains intact, describing their relationship as “father and son things.” He reiterated that Tinubu remains his leader.
3. FG Declares June 12 Public Holiday
The Federal Government has officially declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, as a public holiday to commemorate Democracy Day. This was announced in a statement by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, confirming that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the government.
The minister congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 26 uninterrupted years of democratic rule, lauding it as proof of Nigeria’s resilience and strength. He affirmed that the Tinubu-led administration remains dedicated to the principles of democracy, anchored on the freely expressed will of the people.
4. Army Debunks Claims Of Troop Clash In Benue
The Nigerian Army has denied reports of a supposed violent clash between troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) and Operation Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF) in Benue State, dismissing the claims in a viral audio recording as baseless.
Naturenex reports that in a statement issued on Sunday, military authorities and the Benue State Police Command confirmed that no such incident occurred.
The Army clarified that the only occurrence remotely linked to the claim involved the rescue of a suspect from mob attack in Udei. The individual and another suspect were later handed over to the police and remain in lawful custody.
5. Sanwo-Olu Urges Nigerians To Hold Off June 12 Protest Plans
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has advised Nigerians contemplating staging protests on June 12 to reconsider. The Lagos State Governor argued that there was no need for demonstrations as the President’s policies are geared toward national interest and would produce results soon.
He urged the public to allow Tinubu more time, predicting that in two years, the effects of current policies would reflect in the economy, cost of living, and national security.
Sanwo-Olu added that signs of positive change are already visible and would soon translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.
6. Amaechi Still Pained Over APC Ticket Loss – Presidency
The Presidency has claimed that Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transport, is yet to recover from losing the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket to President Tinubu in 2023.
President Tinubu’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, stated this on Sunday while reacting to remarks made by Amaechi at his 60th birthday celebration. He accused Amaechi of spreading misinformation on issues like fuel subsidy removal and forex unification.
Olusegun asserted that as a former member of the Federal Executive Council, Amaechi should understand government fiscal policies, but has instead sided with opposition elements. He insisted Nigeria was already benefitting from President Tinubu’s bold reforms, with improved fiscal allocations, renewed investor confidence, and ongoing debt servicing.
7. “The Day I Become A Professional Pastor, Let God Kill Me” – Jerry Eze
Popular preacher and founder of Streams of Joy International, Pastor Jerry Eze, has reiterated that his pastoral calling is divinely inspired, not a career for personal gain.
In a chat with Chude Jideonwo, Eze said, “I’m not a professional pastor, the day I become a professional pastor, let God kill me.” He stressed that his ministry remains solely for God’s purpose and not for self-glorification.
Eze acknowledged his unplanned rise to prominence, maintaining that true success comes from pursuing divine purpose rather than personal fame.
8. Highlife Legend Mike Ejeagha Laid To Rest In Enugu
Nigerian highlife legend Mike Ejeagha was buried on Saturday, barely 24 hours after his death, in accordance with his final wishes. The revered musician passed away on Friday at age 95 after a prolonged illness.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria, Emmanuel Ejeagha, the deceased’s eldest son, confirmed his father had detailed his burial instructions before his passing. While the burial was held swiftly, Emmanuel noted that formal funeral rites would take place at a later date.
9. Victor Osimhen Turns Down Al Hilal Offer Again
Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, has again rejected a lucrative deal from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, reaffirming his preference to remain in European football.
Naturenex reports that despite interest from Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, PSG, Real Madrid, and Juventus, no official bid has materialized, reportedly due to Osimhen’s hefty wage demands, rumoured at €400,000 per week.
The 26-year-old striker recently concluded a successful loan spell with Galatasaray, netting 37 goals and providing 8 assists.
10. Cristiano Ronaldo Lifts UEFA Nations League Trophy With Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo added another accolade to his illustrious career as Portugal edged Spain to win the 2025 UEFA Nations League title.
In a thrilling final at Munich’s Allianz Arena, both teams played out a 2-2 draw before Portugal triumphed 5-3 on penalties. The victory marked Portugal’s second UEFA Nations League title, with Ronaldo leading his side to another historic achievement.
That’s a wrap on today’s major headlines. Stay informed with more news updates on Naturenex — see you tomorrow.
