Here’s a roundup of major Nigerian newspaper headlines, bringing you the top stories shaping conversations nationwide.
1. ‘N200 billion monthly electricity subsidy benefits rich Nigerians – Tinubu’s aide’ – Punch
The federal government claims that the N200 billion monthly electricity subsidy primarily benefits the wealthiest 25 percent of Nigerians rather than those in genuine need, but says it is working towards a targeted subsidy system to ensure that low-income households receive the most support.
Our Take: We call for a quick implementation of targeted subsidy system and investment in stable electricity, beyond just ‘making plans’. Nigerians need real power, not empty promises and candlelit apologies.
2. ‘Delta women protest incessant attacks by herdsmen’ – Vanguard
Indigenes of Egbo-Kokori community in Ughelli North local government area, Delta State, recently barricaded the entrance to the Ughelli Police Area Command in the council, protesting the incessant attacks, raping and destruction of their farm lands.
Our Take: The Delta State government and security operatives must act now to end these relentless attacks on Egbo-Kokori women and farmers. It’s not enough to offer condolences.Deploy security forces, arrest the culprits, and ensure justice is served. The people deserve safety, not fear on their own land.
3. ‘National Assembly resumes today, to accelerate tax reform bills’ – Daily Trust
The National Assembly is set to resume plenary today, with plans to expedite action towards passage of the tax reform bills.
Our Take: As lawmakers dust off their seats and resume plenary, Nigerians hope that ‘tax reform’ won’t just mean finding new ways to squeeze the already struggling masses while the political elite enjoy loopholes and exemptions. The National Assembly must prioritise fair, transparent, and people-centered tax policies, not just rubber-stamp bills that burden ordinary citizens while the rich keep sipping their tax-free champagne.
4. World Cancer Day: We have become burden to our families – Patients – Daily Trust
As Nigeria commemorates World Cancer Day, the voices of those battling the disease paint a grim picture of a healthcare system failing its most vulnerable.
Our Take: The statistics are worrying. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Nigeria recorded 127,763 new cancer cases in 2022 alone, with 79,542 deaths. These are not just numbers; they represent fathers, mothers, children, and loved ones who might have had a fighting chance if the right infrastructure and policies were in place.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare must take decisive action to bridge the cancer care gap by investing and equipping regional cancer treatment centres across all geopolitical zones to reduce the burden on a few overstretched facilities.