Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.
1. Daily Trust: National Assembly Bars Natasha from Resuming Plenary
There was drama at the National Assembly complex in Abuja yesterday as security operatives blocked Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) from resuming plenary.
Heavily armed officers stationed at all entrances denied the senator access, ordering her and her supporters to vacate the premises.
Our Take: We call on the Senate to respect the rule of law and comply with the Federal High Court ruling that declared Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension unconstitutional and excessive. Continuing to bar her from resuming plenary defies a valid court judgement and also undermines the democratic rights of her constituents to representation. The Senate should uphold judicial authority and democratic principles by reinstating her without further delay.
2. The Guardian: Senate Approves Tinubu’s $21.8 Billion Borrowing Plan, N758 Billion Pension Bond Amid Soaring Debt Concern
The Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s 2025–2026 External Borrowing (Rolling) Plan, which includes requests to borrow $21.8 billion, €2.1 billion and ¥15 billion, as well as a €65 million grant, to finance key projects and programmes across various sectors of the economy.
Our Take: The Senate must accompany its approval of President Tinubu’s $21.8 billion borrowing plan and the N758 billion pension bond with a firm demand for transparency, accountability, and measurable impact in project implementation. With Nigeria’s debt profile already raising sustainability concerns, it is crucial that the National Assembly intensifies oversight to ensure borrowed funds are not mismanaged or diverted.
3. The Nation: Tinubu to inaugurate cancer centres in Katsina, Benin, Nsukka
President Bola Tinubu will tomorrow inaugurate three newly-completed cancer centres in Katsina, Benin and Nsukka.
Our Take: As President Tinubu inaugurates the new cancer centres in Katsina, Benin, and Nsukka, it is vital that the government ensures these facilities are adequately staffed, properly equipped, and sustainably maintained to deliver affordable and quality cancer care to everyday Nigerians. Beyond commissioning ceremonies, citizens must see a functional healthcare system where early diagnosis and life-saving treatment are within reach, regardless of location or income.
