A turbulent midweek in Nigeria sees major fiscal decisions, healthcare crisis threats, and heightened political drama as opposition figures raise alarm.
1. Senate Approves $21 Billion Loan for 2025–2026 Fiscal Cycle
In a major financial decision, the Nigerian Senate has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s external borrowing plan exceeding $21 billion for the 2025–2026 fiscal cycle. The approval followed the presentation and adoption of a report from the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, chaired by Senator Aliyu Wamakko.
2. Looming National Medical Strike: NMA Meets FG in Last-Minute Talks
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is set to meet with federal government representatives today in Abuja, ahead of a nationwide strike planned for Thursday. The NMA had earlier warned of a complete shutdown of medical services over unmet demands, raising fresh concerns over the nation’s fragile healthcare system.
3. U.S. Issues Grim Travel Advisory on Nigeria Over Security, Health Risks
The United States government has issued a stern travel warning, advising its citizens to avoid travel to Nigeria. Citing deteriorating healthcare services, high kidnapping rates, terrorism, and armed gang activity, the advisory underscores growing international concern over Nigeria’s internal security situation.
4. Senator Natasha Accuses Akpabio of Vendetta, Defends Senate Seat
Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of orchestrating a personal vendetta using legislative powers to silence her. She cited a Federal High Court ruling that declared her suspension illegal and reaffirmed her position as an elected senator.
5. CBN Holds Interest Rate Steady at 27.5% Amid Economic Uncertainty
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has kept the Monetary Policy Rate unchanged at 27.5 percent following its 301st Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in Abuja. CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso announced the decision, aiming to stabilize inflation and support macroeconomic policies.
6. 3,160 Displaced by Renewed Violence in Benue State – Minister
Following recent killings in Yelwa, Benue State, at least 3,160 individuals have been displaced, according to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. He disclosed during a Tuesday appearance on Arise News’ Morning Show.
7. Tinubu to Commission Three New Cancer Centres This Week
President Tinubu is set to inaugurate three newly completed cancer treatment centres in Katsina, Benin, and Nsukka on Thursday. These centres are part of a national health initiative to construct six Centres of Excellence for cancer treatment. The remaining centres are expected to be completed within 18 to 20 months, according to Coordinating Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
8. Cult Violence Claims Young Artisan in Lagos During Initiation Ritual
A 26-year-old artisan, simply identified as Timehin, was reportedly killed during cult initiation rites in the Awoyaya area of Eti-Osa, Lagos State. The tragic incident occurred on July 18, allegedly orchestrated by a rival cult group.
9. Atiku Warns Against Threats to Peter Obi, Opposition Voices
Former PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned threats allegedly targeting Labour Party’s Peter Obi, describing them as threats to all opposition voices. He emphasized that democracy thrives on diversity and dialogue, not intimidation.
10. Reps Propose Ban on Civil Servants Using Private Schools, Hospitals
A new bill introduced in the House of Representatives seeks to bar public officials and civil servants from patronising private schools and healthcare services. Sponsored by Rep. Amobi Ogah (LP–Abia), the legislation is aimed at revitalizing public institutions and ending the double standards in public service.
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