Major Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Saturday, April 25, 2026

A compilation of major developments across Nigeria and beyond indicates rising tensions, policy shifts, and political intrigue shaping national discourse. According to media reports, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has issued an urgent advisory to citizens living in South Africa, urging them to temporarily shut down their businesses and avoid confrontations amid a fresh wave of xenophobic violence. The warning follows reports of coordinated protests in cities including East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, where foreign-owned businesses have reportedly been looted and destroyed. Authorities also disclosed that further demonstrations are anticipated in Gauteng province between April 27 and 29, heightening fears among Nigerians and other foreign nationals who rely on small-scale enterprises for survival.

Meanwhile, the administration of President Bola Tinubu has approved a comprehensive review of allowances, welfare benefits, and retirement packages for federal civil servants. The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, confirmed that the adjustments affect workers under major salary structures and span all grade levels, with a notable reform granting full Duty Tour Allowance to officials attending approved training programmes regardless of travel requirements. The government also introduced a new exit benefit scheme for retirees under the contributory pension system, designed to provide full emoluments alongside pensions from January 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening post-service financial security.

In a separate development, President Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, alongside select lawmakers at the Presidential Villa shortly after observing Jumat prayers. Although the engagement was not listed on the President’s official schedule, sources indicated that discussions took place behind closed doors, with details of deliberations remaining undisclosed.

The President also presided over the swearing-in of Dr. Muttaqha Darma as Minister of Housing and Urban Development. Darma, who previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, formally assumed office following Senate confirmation, with assurances to collaborate with lawmakers in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit.

Political commentary has also intensified following the reported exit of former Finance Minister Wale Edun, as ex-Youth and Sports Minister Solomon Dalung questioned the official narrative attributing the resignation to health concerns. Speaking during a televised interview, Dalung suggested that deeper, undisclosed factors may have influenced the decision, arguing that Edun’s values were incompatible with the prevailing political environment.

Within opposition circles, concerns have emerged over escalating tensions between supporters of Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar. A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Usman Austin Okai, warned that the ongoing media clashes could undermine coalition efforts and weaken internal cohesion, particularly as the party navigates legal disputes over its leadership structure.

In the financial sector, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested former Skye Bank chairman Tunde Ayeni over allegations of large-scale financial misconduct. The anti-graft agency is reportedly investigating claims involving the diversion of billions of naira and millions of dollars through multiple corporate entities, with sources indicating that funds intended for key projects were redirected for other purposes.

Judicial proceedings also continued in Abuja, where the Federal High Court adjourned the alleged money laundering trial of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to May 6, allowing further cross-examination of a prosecution witness. Testimonies presented in court highlighted discrepancies in financial documents and transactions linked to the case, as legal arguments from both sides persist.

In the entertainment space, a public dispute erupted after media personality Daddy Freeze criticised actor Yul Edochie over controversial remarks regarding a colleague’s failed marriage. The exchange has generated significant reactions on social media, further fueling debate around relationships and public conduct.

On the international sports scene, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has maintained confidence in his team’s chances of securing the Premier League title despite recent setbacks that saw Manchester City take the lead. Arteta expressed belief in his squad’s resilience, emphasizing that the title race remains open with several crucial fixtures still to be played.