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

1. Punch: NNPCL Shake-Up: MDs of Port Harcourt, Warri, Kaduna Refineries Sacked/COAS Vows Tough Offensive as Boko Haram Kills 40 in Borno

The new management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has fired the managing directors of the three refineries under the purview of NNPCL.

The Punch also reports that in less than 24 hours, suspected Boko Haram terrorists killed over 40 people in multiple attacks across Borno State, razing down houses and a church, just after the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhancing the capacity of its troops to neutralise ongoing threats to national security

Our Take: 

This shake-up must signal more than a routine reshuffling. NNPCL should seize this moment to ensure transparency, appoint competent professionals with proven track records, and implement a clear, time-bound plan to revive Nigeria’s refineries, reduce dependency on fuel imports, and deliver real value to Nigerians who have long borne the brunt of a dysfunctional oil sector.

The Nigerian Army must move beyond reaffirming its commitment and take immediate, decisive action to dismantle terrorist strongholds, intensify ground and aerial offensives, and ensure sustained presence in vulnerable communities.

2. Vanguard: Japa: We Can’t Get Doctors to Recruit

The Kwara State Government on Tuesday cried out over an inadequate number of medical doctors in the state’s health facilities because of brain drain, popularly called ‘Japa’ syndrome.

Our Take: The Kwara State Government should collaborate with the federal government and medical associations to address the root causes of brain drain by improving working conditions, offering competitive remuneration, and creating a supportive career environment for health professionals.

3. Daily Trust: We Trek for Miles, Minna Residents Say as Curfew Bites 

As the restriction on the movement of commercial motorcycles and tricycles in Minna, the Niger State capital, enters its second week, residents and traders have decried the negative impact on their livelihoods and daily activities.

Our Take: While security is vital, the Niger State Government should review the curfew’s implementation by adjusting enforcement hours and engaging with affected communities to ensure that safety measures do not unduly punish law-abiding residents or cripple daily economic activities.