Welcome to the Friday meltdown of Nigerian newspapers headlines making waves across Nigeria. As you sip your morning tea, let these stories remind you that we have more than enough work to do.
1. ‘Many killed as bandits attack Katsina villages’ – Daily Trust
The Grim Truth: Gunmen struck again, claiming lives in Katsina State; this time targeting the Community Watch Corps and residents across several villages. Another day, another bloodbath, another deafening silence from those in power.
Our Take: Security is not optional. It’s not a prayer point. It is the job of the federal and Katsina State governments to protect lives and property. Enough with the photo ops and sympathy tweets. Where are the actionable policies, the community-led security plans, and the sustainable solutions?
2.’Power stagnates at 4,500MW despite $3.23 billion loans’ – Punch
The Shock Factor: Four years, $3.23 billion borrowed, and all we have is a lousy 4,500 megawatts. The generator sellers are clapping; the rest of us are stuck in the dark.
Our Take: Minister Adebayo Adelabu, a full public audit of these loans is necessary. Where did the money go? Who is accountable? Public service is not a private business. Nigerians need more than promises that fizzle out; we need an energy strategy that sparks real progress.
3. ‘BudgIT faults 2025 budget, demands breakdown of TETFund, NJC allocations’ – The Guardian
Budget Theater: BudgIT has called out President Bola Tinubu’s 2025 budget for its usual sins: opaqueness and poor prioritisation. Billions are allocated, but where is it going? Certainly not into the pockets of struggling Nigerians.
Our Take: This is no time for blind faith. Nigerians should demand clarity. Join BudgIT’s call for a breakdown of allocations to TETFund and NJC. Attend public budget forums, write to your representatives, and demand they account for every naira. Call your local radio stations, organise community discussions, and push for participatory budgeting. The National Assembly must stop being a rubber stamp for the executive.
