Breaking Today: Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines – Wednesday, 4th Feb 2026

Good morning, Nigeria. Here are the top newspaper headlines for Wednesday, 4th February, 2026.

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has released ₦2.45 trillion to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for infrastructure and security projects. According to the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, the funds were disbursed between March 2024 and August 2025 to support road repairs, bridge construction, educational and healthcare improvements, and security operations across the country. Bwala emphasized that such federal support to subnational governments is common in other countries, including the United States, and pledged continued collaboration to ensure national development.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has stated that individuals he described as “vagabonds” have been expelled from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring the party free from internal disruptions. Makinde made the remark during the unveiling of the Oyo State PDP Secretariat in Ibadan, noting that the group had dominated party affairs following the PDP’s loss at the federal level in 2015.

The Federal Ministry of Education has denied approving the controversial “Living History” textbook, which allegedly excluded Igbo content. The ministry, through its Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, confirmed that the book has not been submitted to the National Educational Research and Development Council for review and is not authorized for use in Nigerian schools. The ministry warned that using unapproved instructional materials could undermine curriculum standards.

Tension rose in Kogi State as the government ordered the immediate closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools. While the government did not officially state a reason, reports suggested the move was linked to a planned security operation aimed at preventing potential attacks on schools. The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools confirmed that the directive effectively advanced the midterm break into an emergency closure.

Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, factional National Chairman of the PDP, praised party members for remaining loyal despite court judgments and other challenges, asserting that the party would ultimately succeed. Governor Makinde reaffirmed his support and confidence in the current PDP leadership.

The Department of State Services arraigned former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz Malami, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of terrorism financing. The defendants pleaded not guilty to charges including aiding terrorism and possession of an unlicensed firearm, with the prosecution alleging the former AGF failed to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers during his tenure.

Nollywood actress Angela Okorie was rearrested shortly after her release from Suleja Correctional Centre. Police confirmed the rearrest followed claims that she refused to pay the Senior Advocate of Nigeria who secured her bail. Okorie was initially arrested on cyberstalking and cyberbullying charges.

Legendary gospel singer Ron Kenoly has died at the age of 81. Fellow gospel artists and Nigerian minister Nathaniel Bassey expressed gratitude for Kenoly’s influence on generations of musicians. Kenoly was known for hit songs including Majesty, Righteousness, Peace & Joy, and Sing Out.

Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel revealed that Manchester United were unable to sign him at age 16 due to eligibility rules governing young African players. Despite impressing then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson during a trial, Mikel could not complete a move as he had not yet played for the Nigerian national team.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has downplayed transfer links involving midfielder Sandro Tonali, affirming that the player remains committed to the club. Tonali’s agent confirmed there had been no discussions with Arsenal, though future talks could take place later in the year.