Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.

1. The Guardian: 51 Universities, others Embroiled in Illegal Deductions from Students’ Loans

No fewer than 51 institutions have been fingered in illegal deductions and attendant exploitation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) scheme.

Our Take: The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), in collaboration with relevant oversight bodies, must urgently investigate and sanction all institutions implicated in these illegal deductions, while ensuring full transparency and accountability in the disbursement process. Institutions must be compelled to refund excess charges to affected students and adopt clear, auditable processes moving forward, as any further exploitation undermines the purpose of the student loan scheme and deepens distrust in the education system.

2. Punch: NNPCL Under Fire as $897 Million Warri Refinery Revamp Flops

Industry operators and experts have questioned the operational integrity of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), particularly regarding transparency, efficiency, and overall management of Nigeria’s refineries under its purview.

Our Take: The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) must be compelled to publicly disclose detailed reports on all refinery rehabilitation projects to rebuild public trust and ensure that future investments deliver real value to Nigerians.

3. Leadership: Concerns as 2027 Campaign Threatens Governance

Leadership is reporting that political supporters have been making concerted efforts to campaign publicly for their preferred candidates, even though the approved time for electioneering is still nearly two years away.

Our Take: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must take swift action to curb premature campaign activities and enforce existing electoral laws. We also urge President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and other political leaders to prioritise governance over politicking and focus on delivering real development outcomes that address the pressing needs of Nigerians rather than fuelling distractions ahead of the 2027 elections.