Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Friday, January 23, 2026

Good morning, Nigeria. Here is a summary of the major stories making the rounds across national newspapers today, Friday, January 23, 2026.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has dismissed speculation suggesting he may defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress following his recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. According to Ireporter Online, the governor clarified that he remains firmly rooted in the Peoples Democratic Party and stressed that his engagement with the President was driven by national interest rather than partisan politics. He explained that certain challenges confronting the country require bipartisan collaboration and insisted that his discussions with the President were not politically motivated.

In Rivers State, the Chief Judge, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi, has declined a request from the State House of Assembly seeking the constitution of a seven-member panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. Legal sources disclosed that the Chief Judge cited existing court orders restraining him from taking such action. He emphasised that respect for constitutionalism and adherence to the rule of law remain fundamental pillars of democracy and must be upheld until the courts decide otherwise.

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised concerns over what he described as the growing trend of unlawful detention in Nigeria, warning that it poses a serious threat to democracy. Speaking at the 23rd Annual Trust Dialogue in Abuja, El-Rufai stated that the justice system was designed to protect citizens rather than intimidate them. According to reports from the event, he condemned detention without due process, describing it as a violation of fundamental human rights and a contradiction of constitutional principles.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed alarm over delays in the passage of a bill aimed at strengthening punishment for electoral fraud. According to political observers, Atiku accused the Senate of deliberately stalling amendments to the Electoral Act, warning that the delay could undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections. He argued that loopholes in the current law contributed to irregularities witnessed in previous elections and called for urgent legislative action to restore public confidence in the electoral process.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taken legal action against unions within the Federal Capital Territory Administration over the ongoing strike that has disrupted activities across Abuja. Court filings obtained by Ireporter Online indicate that the matter has been filed before the National Industrial Court, with a substantive hearing scheduled for Monday. The industrial action, which followed the expiration of a strike ultimatum, has paralysed government operations, despite claims by FCTA management that most of the workers’ demands had been addressed.

The United States has urged Nigeria to take stronger steps to protect Christian communities following the abduction of more than 170 worshippers in Kaduna State. Speaking during a U.S.–Nigeria Working Group meeting in Abuja, U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, acknowledged some progress in Nigeria’s security efforts but noted that recent incidents show the need for more decisive action. Security sources revealed that the abductors are demanding the return of motorcycles seized during military operations as a condition for releasing the victims.

The Federal Government has announced that it has disbursed ₦152 billion to local contractors for verified projects. According to a statement from the Ministry of Finance, the payment follows protests by indigenous contractors over outstanding debts. The ministry appealed for calm and dialogue, noting that its officials have faced harassment and assuring that verification procedures are being followed to ensure transparency and accountability in public spending.

Yeni Kuti, daughter of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has called for restraint amid the ongoing dispute involving singer Wizkid and the Kuti family. Speaking during a television appearance, she warned that the controversy risks portraying Nigeria negatively on the global stage. She urged all parties to resolve their differences privately and protect the legacy of Fela, especially as the country celebrates his international recognition.

Israel DMW, logistics manager to music star Davido, has dismissed claims that any of the singer’s twins are autistic. In a social media statement, he described the allegations as false and irresponsible, insisting that Davido’s children are healthy and well cared for. He explained that the decision to keep them away from public view is a personal one and unrelated to health concerns.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football has imposed a $100,000 fine on the Algerian Football Federation following post-match chaos after Algeria’s defeat to Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. CAF stated that the sanctions were due to inappropriate conduct by Algerian players, officials and supporters, including confrontations with match officials. The disciplinary body said such actions brought the game into disrepute and warranted firm punishment.

That wraps up today’s major Nigerian newspaper stories. Stay informed and join us again for the next news update.