From politics to the economy, governance to social issues, Nigerian newspapers are buzzing with major headlines. Here’s a roundup of the biggest stories shaping conversations across the country.
1. ‘CSOs kick as MDAs spend N16bn on estacode, compensations’ – Punch
The ministries, departments, and agencies of the federal government spent over N16 billion on estacodes for officials and compensations for people affected by government projects in about two years.
Our Take: If only governance moved as fast as MDAs spending N16bn on estacodes! Nigerians must demand transparency, because public funds should build the nation, not bankroll luxury trips. It’s time for stricter oversight and real accountability.
2. ‘Hunger in the land: How price of rice rose from N2,500 in 2000 to N105,000 in 2024’ – Vanguard
President Bola Tinubu saw soaring food prices and swiftly declared a food security emergency in 2023. A year later, hunger is still winning, and inflation keeps turning basic meals into luxury feasts.
Our Take: Mr. President, Nigerians can’t eat declarations. At N105,000 per bag, rice is a luxury! It’s time for real solutions: support farmers, fix supply chains, and curb inflation before hunger becomes the nation’s biggest crisis.
3. ‘Road crashes claim 5,421 lives in 2024, up by seven percent’ – The Guardian
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has reported a seven percent rise in road crash fatalities in 2024, with 5,421 lives lost compared to 5,081 deaths in 2023.
Our Take: The rise in road crash fatalities calls for urgent action. The FRSC must enforce traffic laws, policymakers should improve road safety, and drivers must prioritise responsible driving.