Nigeria’s Leading Newspaper Headlines For Thursday, January 15, 2026

Nigeria woke up to a mix of political, economic, labour, security and sports developments on Thursday, January 15, 2026, as key national issues dominated the front pages of major newspapers across the country.

According to Ireporter Online, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Wednesday concluded weeks of negotiations with the signing of a new agreement aimed at resolving long-standing disputes surrounding the 2009 pact. The agreement was formalised at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja, in the presence of senior government officials, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, his Minister of State, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, and ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna. The deal is expected to strengthen the university education system and bring lasting stability to the sector, with the Minister describing it as a watershed moment capable of ending years of strike-induced disruptions, while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating political will in addressing challenges within tertiary education.

Meanwhile, fresh clarifications emerged over Nigeria’s newly implemented tax reform laws, which took effect on January 1, 2026. Speaking in Lagos, the Chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, dismissed concerns that recent amendments to the laws would negatively impact Nigerians. He explained that the reported changes were minor and did not alter core provisions such as tax rates, filing deadlines or overall tax burden. Oyedele made the remarks after delivering a keynote address at the 2026 Economic Outlook event organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. He also revealed that uncertainty around the reforms had been compounded by the unavailability of official printed copies, alleging that the National Assembly had withheld the documents pending further review, a move he warned could undermine public confidence in the reform process.

In Kano State, political realignments again took centre stage as former governor and national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, outlined conditions under which he might consider joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence, Kwankwaso stressed that any defection must come with clear assurances regarding the future of the Kano State government and the welfare of his political followers. He recalled past experiences where his political bloc played decisive roles in forming governments only to be marginalised afterward, insisting that safeguards must be in place before any move is contemplated.

On the opposition front, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly criticised the Federal Government over reports of a $9 million lobbying contract approved for engagement in the United States. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the move as scandalous and indefensible, accusing the Tinubu administration of prioritising international image management over addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship. The ADC argued that the expenditure was ill-timed, given the rising cost of living and persistent security challenges, and described it as an admission of diplomatic failure amid unfilled ambassadorial positions.

Political tension in Rivers State showed signs of easing after two additional lawmakers withdrew support for the impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. According to reports, Barile Nwakoh and Emilia Amadi appealed for calm and dialogue, citing interventions by respected stakeholders within the state. Their decision brings to four the number of lawmakers who have reversed their earlier stance, raising questions about the future of the impeachment move as the House of Assembly prepares to reconvene.

Labour relations also remained strained as the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to withdraw its “No Work, No Pay” circular affecting members of the Joint Health Sector Unions. The TUC described the directive as authoritarian and confrontational, warning that failure to reverse it could trigger nationwide industrial resistance. Union leaders accused the ministry of acting in bad faith by imposing sanctions while simultaneously engaging workers in negotiations.

In the private sphere, prominent businessman and socialite Obi Cubana publicly announced his decision to embrace the Christian faith, confirming during a discussion with Pastor Jerry Eze that he has given his life to Christ. He described the move as a personal decision and expressed a desire to grow spiritually, while assurances were given that he would receive guidance and discipleship to support his new journey.

Also making headlines, Nigerian singer Qdot revealed that he continues to live in fear months after his Lagos home was robbed. The artist disclosed that the trauma has left him emotionally unsettled, with recurring panic attacks and disrupted sleep, as memories of the incident resurface nightly.

On the sports front, Senegal secured a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging Egypt 1-0 in a tightly contested semi-final decided by a late strike from Sadio Mané. The victory sets up a final clash against either Nigeria or host nation Morocco. That matchup was confirmed after Morocco eliminated the Super Eagles on penalties following a goalless draw that extended into extra time. The Atlas Lions prevailed 4-2 in the shootout, ending Nigeria’s AFCON campaign after a tense and evenly matched encounter.

These stories dominated Nigeria’s news cycle on Thursday, reflecting a nation navigating complex political negotiations, economic reforms, labour tensions and sporting drama.