Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naturenex roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Thursday, 24th April, 2025.
1. Details Of Tinubu’s Meeting With Security Chiefs Emerge
On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu expressed serious concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, declaring to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and other security chiefs that “enough is enough.”
This declaration came during a closed-door security briefing held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the President urged security leaders to act decisively against the increasing violence in various regions.
Following the President’s orders, Ribadu addressed State House correspondents, assuring them that security agencies had received the President’s directives and were already taking action to counter the crisis.
He noted that although security challenges persist, recent operations have shown progress in containing violent threats and restoring order. Ribadu highlighted that the majority of casualties stemmed from terrorist-planted Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), underscoring terrorism as the primary cause of the crisis.
He further revealed that Tinubu had issued firm instructions for all security agencies to put an end to the bloodshed and restore peace to the nation.
2. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Dumps PDP For APC
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Naturenex reports that this move followed a strategic, private meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Wednesday evening.
Governor Oborevwori switched parties alongside his deputy, Monday Onyeme, his commissioners, and other leading PDP figures in the state.
Senior APC members were on hand to welcome the governor, signaling a significant shift in Delta State’s political dynamics.
3. 2027: The Only Southern Candidate That Can Take On Tinubu Is Not Ready To Stress Himself – Momodu
Chief Dele Momodu, a former presidential hopeful, has declared that former President Goodluck Jonathan remains the only southern politician capable of standing against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
However, Momodu suggested Jonathan is unlikely to return to the political scene.
He explained that Jonathan appears content with his achievements, having far surpassed his personal aspirations.
The PDP stalwart also mentioned that the only other candidate Tinubu’s camp fears is former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who, according to him, is being politically targeted in an effort to weaken his prospects.
Naturenex gathered that Momodu made these remarks in an interview with New Telegraph while reflecting on Nigeria’s current political climate.
4. COAS Gives Military Troops One Month To Wipe Out New Terrorist Group In Kwara State
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a direct order for Nigerian troops to dismantle a new terrorist group, Mahmouda, operating in Kwara State.
General Oluyede emphasized the urgency of neutralizing the group before it expands into other local governments and regions.
Naturenex reports that the COAS delivered this command during his visit to Sobi Barracks in Ilorin, urging soldiers to eradicate the terrorists, currently active in Kaiama and Baruten local councils, within a month.
He reassured the troops of full military support, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford the emergence of another insurgent movement like Boko Haram.
5. ‘What We Need Is Emergency Help’ – Benue Governor
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has dismissed suggestions for a state of emergency, instead appealing for robust Federal Government support.
Speaking on Arise TV’s “The Morning Show” on Wednesday, Alia clarified that the situation remains under his administration’s control but requires additional resources from Abuja to effectively tackle insecurity.
The governor said his government is capable of addressing the violence, especially attacks by armed herders, but needs urgent federal assistance to strengthen efforts.
With adequate resources, Alia believes his administration can safeguard farmers, drive out invaders, and restore peace.
6. Tinubu Govt Approves ₦50 Billion To Settle ASUU, NASU
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Alausa announced Wednesday that the Federal Government has disbursed ₦50 billion to federal university staff unions as earned allowances, fulfilling a pledge by President Tinubu.
This was revealed in a press statement titled “FG Releases ₦50bn Earned Allowances to Varsity Unions, Tinubu Reaffirms Education Priority,” issued by the ministry’s Director of Press, Folasade Boriowo.
Alausa also conveyed President Tinubu’s appreciation to university unions for their cooperation and trust, highlighting improved relations after years of tension over unpaid allowances.
7. Benue State Governor Appoints 2Face As Technical Adviser
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has appointed award-winning singer, 2Face Idibia, as his Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach.
Naturenex reports that the appointment was announced during a courtesy visit by 2Face to the governor’s office.
Governor Alia thanked the singer for his support, saying, “On behalf of the Benue State government and our very good people, we want to give you some more responsibility plus the ones you have been doing because you have the capacity to do some more and help us chart a way forward to improve other people’s lives and to gain more from your wisdom and advise as well so I’m pleased to announce that we will make you a technical adviser to the Governor on entertainment and community outreach.”
8. ‘There Is No Chance For Any Other Girl’ – Mayorkun
Nigerian music star, Adewale Mayowa Emmanuel, popularly known as Mayorkun, has hinted that he’s now in an exclusive relationship.
Naturenex recalls that Mayorkun’s previous relationship was with British model Cocainna, which ended in 2023.
In a fresh chat with Arise TV, the singer revealed he’s off the market, stating there’s “no chance for any other girl.” However, he declined to disclose his new partner’s identity.
9. Paul Of Psquare Celebrates Brother, Jude Okoye’s Return From Jail
Popular Nigerian musician Paul Okoye, aka Rudeboy, has celebrated the release of his elder brother Jude Okoye from detention.
Jude, arrested by the EFCC in February over alleged financial crimes totaling ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59, was freed on Wednesday, a day before his 48th birthday.
In a celebratory Instagram post, Rudeboy wrote, “Jude is finally out after 2 months… all their efforts to frustrate his bail have finally collapsed. Welcome home, brother @judeengees! And happy birthday!”
10. Marcus Rashford Doesn’t Want To Play Under Amorim At Man United
England striker Marcus Rashford has reportedly declared he has no interest in playing for Manchester United under manager Ruben Amorim.
After being loaned to Aston Villa in February following a rift with Amorim, Rashford has scored four goals, including one against Manchester City.
A BBC report confirms Rashford isn’t considering a return to Old Trafford while Amorim remains coach. Insiders note his exclusion from the manager’s plans and his last matchday inclusion being as an unused substitute against Newcastle on December 30.