Nigeria’s Top Stories You Can’t Miss – 16th March 2026

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has stated that President Bola Tinubu is not among those exploiting federal influence to manipulate elections. According to Ireporter Online, Governor Adeleke emphasized that Tinubu is using federal authority to deliver effective governance, while those boasting about employing such power to rig polls are “electoral bandits.” He criticized the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly threatening to deploy federal might to influence the forthcoming governorship election. The Governor made the remarks during a meeting with leaders and ward officials of the Accord Party across the state.

The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has reflected on his resilience following the loss of significant positions, including his suspension as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and removal as Emir of Kano. According to Ireporter Online, Sanusi spoke at the Fola Adeola Annual Ramadan Lecture, highlighting that outcomes depend on God’s will rather than individuals, and cautioned against humbling oneself for powerful figures, emphasizing faith and patience during trying times.

The Federal Government has accused Jupiter Ltd of attempting to discredit Nigeria during President Tinubu’s upcoming visit to the United Kingdom. According to Ireporter Online, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development described the alleged campaign as false and misleading, aimed at tarnishing reforms in the mining sector. The Ministry clarified that Nigeria has no contractual relationship with the company, and revocation of certain mineral licenses was due to statutory non-compliance.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has declared that he is prepared to remove officials under his supervision if necessary, rather than wait to be dismissed. According to Ireporter Online, Keyamo explained in an interview that while he previously allowed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to manage operations independently, he now recognizes his ultimate responsibility and intends to exercise more direct control over the ministry’s decisions.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 74-year-old Ikwuakalom Nwakoro Emeka at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, following the discovery of 11 kilograms of cocaine concealed in his luggage. According to Ireporter Online, the drugs were hidden in food items and foil papers as he attempted to board a flight to London. In a separate operation in Lagos, NDLEA also arrested a woman attempting to sell cocaine and cannabis in Victoria Island.

Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, is reportedly planning to defect to the ruling APC. According to Ireporter Online, sources indicate that negotiations over terms of his defection are ongoing, with assurances given for senatorial tickets and other privileges, though stricter conditions apply than for previous defectors.

Nollywood actress and content creator Kiekie has explained that she keeps her husband out of the public eye to focus on her professional online presence. According to Ireporter Online, she clarified in an interview that her Instagram primarily showcases her work, and her husband is not involved in her content creation activities.

Veteran actress Shaffy Bello has revealed that she underwent a medical procedure to prevent further childbirth. According to Ireporter Online, the actress disclosed on her YouTube channel that she tied her fallopian tubes decades ago, choosing not to expand her family despite her former husband’s wishes.

UEFA has cancelled the 2026 Finalissima match between Spain and Argentina due to the current political situation in the Middle East. According to Ireporter Online, the intercontinental fixture, originally set for March 27 in Doha, could not proceed due to environmental and scheduling constraints.

In Premier League action, Manchester United defeated Aston Villa 3-1 at Old Trafford, strengthening their Champions League hopes. According to Ireporter Online, Fulham and Leeds United were held to draws elsewhere, while Crystal Palace played a 0-0 draw against ten-man Leeds United, highlighting the intense competition in the race for European spots.