Breaking Today: Top Nigerian Headlines You Can’t Miss – Wed, 18th March 2026

Good morning, Nigeria. Here is a summary of the top stories making headlines across the country today.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the recent terrorist bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attacks as “painful” while assuring residents that the Federal Government will intensify efforts to defeat insurgents. In a statement issued Tuesday morning, the President extended condolences to families of the deceased, wished the injured a swift recovery, and praised security forces for their efforts in repelling coordinated attacks. Tinubu described the bombings as “desperate attempts” by terrorists under pressure and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining operations against criminal and terrorist elements nationwide.

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 19th March, and Friday, 20th March 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which concludes the holy month of Ramadan. Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, speaking through a statement by Permanent Secretary Magdalene Ajani, extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful and called on Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for national peace, unity, and prosperity.

In a related development, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced preparations for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, signaling the end of Ramadan 1447AH and the beginning of Eid celebrations. The Sultan urged Muslims nationwide to report any credible crescent sightings on Wednesday, 18th March.

In Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Soludo was sworn in for a second term at the renovated Alex Ekwueme Square in the state capital. The ceremony was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, and other dignitaries. Soludo, alongside Deputy Governor Onyeka Ibezim, reaffirmed his commitment to governance following his re-election in November 2025.

The Labour Party has dissolved the caretaker committee led by Esther Nenadi Usman, following a review of its activities by the party’s National Executive Council. The council reaffirmed support for the National Working Committee led by Julius Abure as the recognized national chairman. The decision was confirmed in a statement by NEC Secretary Abdulrahim Imam Chindo.

Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero has warned of the urgent need to ensure full operation of public and private refineries, citing the recent Middle East conflict as a strain on Nigeria’s crude oil sector. Speaking on Arise News, Ajaero noted that the crisis has revealed the country’s vulnerability to global market fluctuations.

The Benin Traditional Council has suspended a palace chief and a queen for allowing social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, into the Oba of Benin’s palace without authorization. The council described the act as a breach of palace protocol, resulting in a preliminary investigation and disciplinary measures, including an arrest.

Nigerian comedian and content creator Shank Comics has sparked debate after asserting that comedians in Nigeria, including Bovi and Basketmouth, earn more than some music stars such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake. Shank argued that many comedians focus on long-term investments rather than public displays of wealth.

The Nigeria Football Federation has appealed a FIFA ruling that dismissed its protest against the eligibility of several DR Congo players in the 2026 World Cup play-off. Despite losing 4-3 on penalties, the NFF continues to challenge the decision, citing alleged irregularities in the documentation of the opposing team.

Former Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali remains optimistic despite being a free agent following his contract termination. The 29-year-old is exploring opportunities both locally and abroad, with potential moves to clubs in South Africa and Libya reportedly underway.

These are today’s top headlines shaping the news landscape across Nigeria.