Nigeria’s Leading Headlines For Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Good morning, Nigeria. Here is a roundup of the nation’s top news for Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has reaffirmed the strength and resilience of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing speculation that the party is weakening. Speaking during a meeting with members of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by National Chairman Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki at his Abuja residence on Tuesday evening, Jonathan described the PDP as a foundational pillar of Nigeria’s democracy and emphasized its historical importance since 1998. The meeting focused on party reconciliation and strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Meanwhile, the media office of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar warned that Nigeria’s democracy faces significant threats under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a statement released on Tuesday by Paul Ibe, Atiku’s media aide, the office accused the government of implementing harsh economic policies while attempting to weaken opposition parties, potentially creating a de facto one-party state. Ibe also stressed that any suggestion for Atiku to step aside would undermine democratic principles and aid authoritarian ambitions.

President Tinubu has appointed Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote as the new Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, effective January 10, 2026, for a four-year term. Dr. Odusote, 54, previously Deputy Director-General and Head of the Lagos Campus, becomes the first female leader of the institution since its establishment in 1962. She will succeed Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, whose tenure ends on January 9, 2026.

In party politics, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has lifted the indefinite suspension of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf following an internal review of allegations against him. The party’s National Working Committee, in consultation with the founder and Board of Trustees, also appointed Governor Yusuf as the party’s National Leader, restoring all privileges previously withdrawn.

Former Heads of State, Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, commended the Nigerian Army for professionalism and operational excellence during a visit by Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. Shaibu briefed the former leaders on ongoing training initiatives and exercises aimed at strengthening operational readiness and collaboration with state governments.

Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, criticized former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, saying he has lost the political momentum of 2023 and lacks the organizational capacity to lead a coalition or secure a presidential ticket.

On lighter news, singer Davido shared a playful moment with his wife, Chioma, during a vacation in Canoun Island, revealing a habit she has maintained for 13 years. In music industry news, rapper Oladips publicly apologized to former label boss Reminisce through his latest track, ending a long-standing feud.

In sports, the Nigerian Football Federation denied reports of unrest in the Super Eagles camp during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, asserting the team remains united following Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique. Former Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca also spoke publicly for the first time since his dismissal, bidding farewell to supporters and players. Chelsea has since appointed Liam Rosenior as his successor.

This concludes today’s top headlines from across Nigeria.