Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to the Naturenex summary of today’s top newspaper headlines, Wednesday, 28th May, 2025.
1. Tinubu Requests National Assembly’s Nod For Fresh Multi-billion Dollar Loan
President Bola Tinubu has formally sought the consent of the National Assembly for new external loans worth several billions of dollars.
The president’s letter detailed his intention to secure $21.5 billion, €2.1 billion, and 15 billion yen in loans, alongside a €65 million grant.
According to Tinubu, these funds are essential for financing various government projects amid rising financial pressures.
Naturenex reports that the president’s loan request was presented through separate letters read in plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday.
Additionally, approval was sought for domestic bond issuances aimed at funding pension entitlements under the Contributory Pension Scheme.
2. Nigerians Are Suffering, But Change Will Come In 2-3 Years – Kalu
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia North has acknowledged that Nigerians are facing hardship due to the economic policies of the Bola Tinubu-led administration. However, he expressed optimism that improvements will be felt in the next two to three years.
He insisted the president is steering the nation on the right course, noting that while immediate effects are tough, macroeconomic indicators are beginning to show positive signs.
Speaking with journalists at the National Assembly on Tuesday, Naturenex reports Kalu emphasized that, “Nigerians are used to making easy money without working for it,” but Tinubu’s leadership is prioritizing accountability.
3. PDP Sets National Convention Date, Criticizes Tinubu’s Government
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the administration of President Tinubu of worsening Nigerians’ economic woes through its policies.
In a communique issued after its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, the PDP scheduled its next National Convention for August 2025.
Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum alleged the government was responsible for widespread hardship, insecurity, and attempts to suppress opposition.
Naturenex also reports that the PDP ratified the composition of a zoning committee for national offices and considered the South East zonal leadership’s stance on the National Secretary position.
4. NAFDAC Explains Reason Behind Market Fines
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has defended its decision to fine certain drug dealers in markets nationwide, insisting it acted within legal provisions.
NAFDAC’s Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye, warned against public incitement targeting the agency over its operations.
Naturenex reports that Adeyeye, in a statement on Tuesday, dismissed circulating videos allegedly aimed at turning Onitsha Bridge Head Market traders against the government.
She reiterated that fines were imposed to safeguard Nigerians against counterfeit drugs and hinted that the videos might breach Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.
5. “The APC Is Not Afraid Of Any Opposition Coalition” – Kalu
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has reaffirmed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s confidence ahead of the 2027 elections, stating the party remains widely loved by Nigerians.
He added that the APC would maintain its hold on power regardless of opposition alliances.
Speaking to Senate correspondents on Tuesday at the National Assembly, Naturenex reports Kalu praised party members for actively investing in job creation and economic growth.
He insisted the opposition coalition posed no threat to President Tinubu’s re-election bid, highlighting the president’s record as a unifying factor.
6. Two Soldiers Killed As Army Repels Terror Attack In Borno
Troops of the Nigerian Army repelled a coordinated attack by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters on Tuesday in New Marte, Borno State.
Naturenex reports that the terrorists attempted to overrun the military’s position but were met with strong resistance from Operation Hadin Kai forces.
Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, confirmed that two soldiers lost their lives in the operation.
Several insurgents were neutralized, and a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) SUV was seized. Another attack attempt on a base at Kumshe was similarly thwarted.
7. Stanley Ontop Opens Up On Alex Ekubo’s Social Media Break: “Depression Is Real”
Nollywood actor Stanley Ontop has provided clarity regarding the absence of his colleague, Alex Ekubo, from social media.
Naturenex reports Ekubo has been missing from public platforms since December 30, 2024, prompting rumours about his health.
In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Stanley Ontop dismissed these speculations, revealing Ekubo is “in good health and doing great for himself.”
Stanley explained that Ekubo stepped away from social media due to its toxicity, emphasizing that “depression is real.”
8. Angel Smith Denies Lesbian Allegation, Slams Social Hypocrisy
Former Big Brother Naija star, Angel Smith, has responded to a viral video showing her hugging a female friend, which sparked allegations of lesbianism.
Taking to Snapchat, Angel argued that being labelled a lesbian is not offensive.
She criticized society’s misplaced priorities, noting how paedophiles roam freely while her private life attracts undue scrutiny.
Angel stated it’s her personal choice as an adult and advocated respect for diverse lifestyles, reiterating she’s not homophobic.
9. Lamine Yamal Extends Barcelona Contract Until 2031
Spanish club FC Barcelona has confirmed teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has signed a long-term contract extension lasting until June 2031.
At just 17, Yamal has risen to stardom since making his debut in April 2023 at age 15.
Born in Mataró near Barcelona, he joined La Masia aged seven and rapidly became a pivotal player for the club.
Within two years, Yamal has tallied 106 senior appearances, 25 goals, and 34 assists, breaking multiple records including youngest-ever scorer in La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup history.
10. Otto Addo Rekindles Rivalry Ahead Of Ghana-Nigeria Showdown
Ghana’s national team head coach, Otto Addo, has intensified anticipation ahead of Wednesday’s Unity Cup match against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The game, set for 7:00 PM at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, rekindles one of African football’s fiercest rivalries.
Though officially a friendly, Addo stated: “I think everyone knows what it’s about. Surely, it’s classified as a friendly game, but it’s not really a friendly game.”
Both nations’ footballing histories are steeped in decades of competitive clashes.
That wraps up today’s headline roundup. Stay tuned for more stories on Naturenex tomorrow.
