Senate Approves Tinubu’s $21 Billion Foreign Loan
The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for an external borrowing plan exceeding $21 billion for the 2025–2026 fiscal period. The approval followed the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, led by Senator Aliyu Wamakko.
The package includes $21.19 billion in direct foreign loans, €4 billion, ¥15 billion, a $65 million grant, and ₦757 billion in domestic bonds. An additional $2 billion will be raised through foreign currency instruments in the local market.
Senator Olamilekan Adeola, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, noted that the borrowing was already reflected in the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and the 2025 Appropriation Act.
FG, NMA Meet Ahead of Planned Nationwide Strike
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and federal government officials are set to meet today in Abuja ahead of a planned nationwide strike. The NMA had warned on July 2 that it would halt medical services if its demands are not addressed.
The strike is scheduled to begin Thursday.
Senator Natasha Accuses Akpabio of Vendetta
Suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Tuesday accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of using the Senate to silence her for exposing sexual harassment. She insists her suspension was nullified by a Federal High Court and maintains she remains the validly elected senator.
CBN Holds Interest Rate at 27.5%
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has retained the Monetary Policy Rate at 27.5%, following the 301st Monetary Policy Committee meeting in Abuja. CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso said the decision reflects a cautious approach to inflation and price stability. Other parameters such as CRR and Liquidity Ratio were also left unchanged.
US Warns Citizens Against Travel to Nigeria
The United States has issued a new travel advisory warning citizens against visiting Nigeria. The advisory cites poor healthcare, kidnapping, terrorism, and armed gangs as major concerns. The notice is part of a broader U.S. security review of African countries.
Over 3,000 Displaced by Killings in Benue – FG
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, says 3,160 persons have been displaced following killings in Yelwa, Benue State. He made the disclosure during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday.
Tinubu to Inaugurate Three Cancer Centres
President Bola Tinubu will tomorrow inaugurate three cancer centres in Katsina, Benin, and Nsukka. Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the centres are among six being constructed nationwide and are expected to be completed within 18 to 20 months.
Artisan Killed During Cult Initiation in Lagos
A 26-year-old artisan known as Timehin was killed during a cult initiation on July 18 in the Awoyaya area of Eti-Osa, Lagos State. Suspected rival cult members ambushed the initiation site, according to reports on Tuesday.
Atiku Warns Against Threats to Opposition Leaders
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned threats to opposition figures, warning that any attack on Peter Obi is an attack on the entire opposition. He made the statement Tuesday on his X handle.
Reps Propose Ban on Public Servants Using Private Schools, Hospitals
The House of Representatives has introduced a bill seeking to ban public and civil servants from patronising private schools and hospitals. Sponsored by Rep. Amobi Ogah, the bill was read for the first time Tuesday and described as a historic turning point for Nigeria.
Adeleke Endorses Tinubu for Second Term, Stays in PDP
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in 2027, despite remaining a member of the opposition PDP. Adeleke stated on Tuesday that the endorsement followed consultations with Osun PDP leaders and recognition of Tinubu as a son of the state.
Okpebholo Doubles Down on Obi Travel Remark
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has reiterated that former Anambra Governor Peter Obi must inform him before visiting Edo. Speaking Tuesday at a transport project commissioning, Okpebholo said his comments were advisory, not threatening, citing past experience during the Obaseki administration.
Natasha Heads to Appeal Court After NASS Blockade
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, suspended from the Senate, says she will challenge her continued exclusion in the Court of Appeal. On Tuesday, security stopped her from entering the National Assembly despite a court ruling ordering her reinstatement.
FG Replies ADC Over Delay in Ambassador Appointments
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected the African Democratic Congress’ criticism over delayed ambassadorial appointments. In a Tuesday statement, the ministry said Nigeria’s missions remain fully functional and accused the ADC of being “fundamentally misinformed.”
TikTok Star Peller Explains Conversion to Christianity
TikTok creator Habeeb Hamzat, aka Peller, has revealed he left Islam due to traumatic experiences in Quranic school. He now identifies as a Christian and shared his story during a live chat with followers.
Daddy Showkey Says Wizkid Helped Him Join Instagram
Veteran musician Daddy Showkey has credited Wizkid for introducing him to Instagram. In a video call with Maleek Berry, Showkey said Wizkid helped him set up an account, while KCee taught him how to use it effectively.
Arsenal Seal €73.5m Deal for Viktor Gyökeres
Arsenal are finalising a €73.5 million deal to sign Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Swedish striker will sign a five-year contract. The move marks Arsenal’s biggest signing of the summer.
Alozie’s Late Goal Sends Super Falcons to WAFCON Final
Michelle Alozie scored a stoppage-time winner as Nigeria’s Super Falcons defeated South Africa 2-1 on Tuesday to reach the WAFCON final. Rasheedat Ajibade had given Nigeria the lead before Linda Motlhalo equalised. Alozie’s 90+4th minute strike secured victory in a dramatic semi-final.