Stay informed with the top stories shaping Nigeria, including key updates on education policy, a compassionate presidential order for detained minors, and significant moves in the battle against corruption. Plus, new developments in national security, a power grid collapse affecting millions, and a local community’s bold stance against banditry.
1. Education minister upholds 16-year age benchmark for university admissions:
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa reaffirmed the 16-year minimum age for tertiary institution admissions during a briefing in Abuja, joined by Minister of State Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad and Permanent Secretary Dr. Nasiru Sani-Gwarzo. Alausa emphasized that this standard promotes academic readiness and maturity among applicants.
2. VP Shettima reveals Tinubu’s compassionate release of detained minors:
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced that President Tinubu ordered the release of minors facing treason charges, citing compassion. Following the Attorney General’s decision to drop charges, Shettima welcomed the released minors to the Presidential Villa, showcasing a more lenient approach toward the youth.
3. President Tinubu elevates Oluyede to Lieutenant General:
President Bola Tinubu officially decorated Acting Chief of Army Staff Olufemi Oluyede as a Lieutenant General in a brief ceremony on Tuesday. Tinubu praised the military’s dedication and courage, highlighting the government’s commitment to bolstering national security efforts.
4. National grid collapse deepens Nigeria’s power crisis:
Nigeria experienced another national grid collapse, exacerbating ongoing power supply issues. This incident adds to multiple grid failures throughout October, with the Federal Government promising long-term solutions to the recurring energy crisis.
5. Twenty beggars escape from Abuja rehabilitation centre:
At least 20 beggars reportedly fled the FCT Rehabilitation Centre in Kuchiko-Bwari, near Abuja. The escape, which occurred through a fence on Sunday night, has raised concerns about security measures within rehabilitation facilities.
6. Senator Ndume criticizes Tinubu’s tax reform bill as ‘dead on arrival’:
Senator Ali Ndume voiced strong opposition to President Tinubu’s tax reform bill, calling it unfit for northern interests. In a television interview, he highlighted regional concerns over the proposed reforms, suggesting the bill lacks support among northern leaders.
7. Former Delta governor Okowa spends second night in EFCC custody:
Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa remains in EFCC custody in Port Harcourt, marking his second night under detention. The Delta APC has backed his detention, seeing it as progress in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
8. Three killed in renewed Benue cult clashes:
A violent clash between rival cults, Black and Red, left three people dead in the North Bank area of Makurdi, Benue State. The Monday confrontation has escalated tensions, spotlighting the recurring issue of cult-related violence in the region.
9. Bomb explosion triggers panic in Imo State:
A bomb explosion caused chaos in Imo State on Tuesday, injuring multiple people as they fled in panic. The blast disrupted daily activities, leaving citizens and authorities concerned about public safety.
10. Local vigilantes kill 16 bandits in Niger State ambush:
Vigilante groups in Niger’s Madaka community ambushed and killed 16 bandits, though three vigilantes lost their lives in the intense, three-hour gunfight. The vigilantes’ efforts were aimed at curbing rising banditry in Rafi Local Government Area.