Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Nigeria woke up to a mix of political, economic, security, sports and entertainment developments on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, as major stories dominated the front pages of national dailies.

According to Ireporter Online, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the cancellation of significant debts owed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to the Federation Account. Official documents from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) indicate that liabilities amounting to about $1.42 billion and ₦5.57 trillion, accumulated up to December 31, 2024, have been written off following recommendations from a stakeholder reconciliation committee. The commission confirmed that the adjustments have already been reflected in the Federation Account, while outstanding obligations from 2025 operations remain under active monitoring.

In another major development, Nigeria experienced a nationwide power outage on Monday following the collapse of the national electricity grid. Independent system data revealed that electricity generation plunged sharply within hours, leaving most parts of the country without supply. Only three electricity distribution companies—Ibadan, Abuja and Benin—received limited power, while others across Lagos, the Southeast, North-Central and Northeast recorded zero allocation as emergency measures were activated.

Political tensions also featured prominently, as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, dismissed claims by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde that he had pledged to weaken the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in favour of President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking during a media interaction, Wike described the allegation as false, insisting that no such discussion ever took place. The rebuttal followed earlier remarks by Makinde, who said he would not be part of any arrangement that compromised party loyalty.

Meanwhile, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi clarified his position regarding the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, stating that no individual within the alliance is stepping down for him. Speaking during an online interactive session, Obi explained that the coalition is built on collaboration rather than personal ambition, adding that he maintains respect for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and does not need to formally rejoin the ADC, having been part of its founding process.

Wike also raised doubts about the PDP’s chances in the 2027 general elections, attributing the party’s struggles to what he described as weak leadership. He suggested that while victory in 2027 may be unlikely, a leadership overhaul could position the party for a stronger comeback in 2031.

In Kano State, the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) appealed to Governor Abba Yusuf not to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that such a move could undermine public trust. Party leaders denied reports of internal conflict involving the party’s national leader, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and urged members to disregard documents allegedly promoting defection.

On the sports front, former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was hospitalised after being involved in a road accident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. Authorities confirmed that the crash, which involved multiple vehicles, resulted in the death of two individuals. Joshua, who sustained minor injuries, is said to be receiving medical care, while investigations into the incident continue.

International football also made headlines, as Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola attributed his team’s improved form this season to renewed energy and a stronger collective mindset. He noted that internal reflection and unity, rather than denial of challenges, played a key role in the club’s resurgence.

In the entertainment scene, Wunmi, the widow of late singer Mohbad, debunked social media claims that she recently welcomed a baby girl. She described the circulating images as false and urged the public to stop spreading misleading information.

Rounding off the headlines, controversy trailed Lagos-based cleric Pastor Chris Okafor after his ex-wife, Bessem Agnes Okafor, made fresh allegations against him during an online broadcast. She accused the pastor of infidelity and misconduct during their marriage, claims which followed earlier counter-accusations made by the clergyman. The matter has continued to spark intense public debate.

These were the major stories shaping national discourse across Nigeria today.