Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines – Monday, March 23, 2026

Good morning, Nigeria. Here is a roundup of the top newspaper stories for Monday, 23rd March 2026.

President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday in Lagos, assured that his administration will intensify efforts to address the country’s security challenges. Speaking with Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors during an Eid el-Fitr gathering, the President highlighted ongoing collaborations with France to enhance security technologies. He urged governors to translate ideas into impactful policies, support the fight against criminality, and implement measures to alleviate inflationary pressures on energy and transport. Tinubu also thanked Vice President Shettima for his condolence visit to Borno State and pledged enhanced protection through modern interventions.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has dismissed claims that he ordered the dissolution of all state police units and squads. According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the directive is intended to streamline tactical teams, limiting them at Zonal and State Command levels to five teams, and at Area Command and Divisional levels to three, at the discretion of formation heads. Disu clarified that state-created units like Lagos’ Rapid Response Squad, Oyo’s SRS, and Bayelsa’s Operation DOO-AKPOR are unaffected. The measure aims to release personnel for regular stations and reduce complaints about tactical excesses.

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has stated that his recent visit to former NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso in Kano was non-political. Obi highlighted plans to restore Kano’s economic and industrial prominence. The meeting included Governor Seyi Makinde, Senator Seriake Dickson, and activist Naajatu Mohammed, and coincided with the Kwankwassiya Sallah festival.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of attempting to control the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to favor President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Makinde, speaking in Bauchi on Sunday, claimed that Wike-backed factions within PDP are aligning to support Tinubu, attributing the party’s ongoing crises to his influence.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has asserted that no individual, including political authorities, can dictate the outcome of the state’s 2027 governorship election. Responding to remarks by Senator Titus Zam, Alia emphasized that voters will judge his performance based on his track record, credibility, and achievements, stating that the ultimate decision rests with the people.

Peter Obi also expressed concern over rising insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, describing reports of terrorists dictating where citizens can live as “heartbreaking and unacceptable.” Obi argued that the breakdown of governance is evident as non-state actors assume authority in communities, urging the government to prioritize citizen protection.

In entertainment, veteran actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has rebranded himself as Bondu Alaska, moving away from the Papa Ajasco character due to trademark restrictions. The actor shared the change on social media, updating his Instagram handle and encouraging recognition under the new stage name.

Nollywood actress Uche Montana revealed the challenges of finding genuine romantic partners despite her popularity. In an interview with Uncut Xtra Magazine, she noted that public perception and her career visibility often discourage men from approaching her with serious intentions.

In sports, Manchester City secured the 2026 EFL Cup with a 2-0 victory over Arsenal at Wembley, courtesy of a second-half brace by Nico O’Reilly. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur’s relegation fears deepened after a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, leaving them just one point above the drop zone.