Good morning from Nigeria. As the nation moves through a pivotal year marked by significant political repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections, both security and economic indicators dominate the front pages today. The aftermath of a devastating terrorist attack on schools in the South-West and a major international credit rating upgrade for Africa’s largest economy are just some of the stories leading the news.
Security & National Affairs
Terrorists Strike Three Schools in Oyo State
Nigeria’s security challenges took a grim turn yesterday following a coordinated terrorist attack on three schools in the Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The attack, described as one of the most daring assaults on educational institutions in recent times, occurred in broad daylight. Armed gunmen killed an assistant headmaster and abducted an unknown number of pupils and teachers, plunging the surrounding communities into chaos.
The affected schools included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School. Residents recounted how the gunmen moved freely between locations, causing widespread panic before security operatives launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. This incident has reignited calls for the urgent strengthening of school security infrastructure across the nation.
Military Confirms Killing of Senior IS Leader in Joint Operation
In a significant blow to insurgency, President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military have confirmed the killing of a senior Islamic State (IS) leader in a joint operation with United States forces. The operation, which took place within Nigerian territory, was announced on Saturday morning. President Donald Trump also confirmed the development, stating that US and Nigerian forces collaborated to “wipe out” the high-value target. The successful mission is seen as a major victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region.
EFCC Bows to Pressure, Orders Probe into Hospital Raid
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has bowed to public outcry and ordered an investigation into the actions of its operatives who allegedly attacked medical workers at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Akwa Ibom State. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a raid that resulted in the alleged assault of hospital staff, triggering outrage from senior lawyers, civil society organizations, and citizens who accused the anti-graft agency of highhandedness and rights abuse. The commission has faced increasing criticism following a string of controversial raids on hotels, hostels, and institutions during operations targeting suspects linked to financial crimes.
Tambuwal Withdraws from Senatorial Race
Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, has announced his withdrawal from the 2027 Sokoto South Senatorial race. In a statement, Tambuwal explained that his decision was aimed at promoting unity within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and creating room for younger politicians to emerge. This development is viewed as a strategic move in the ongoing political realignments ahead of the next general election cycle.
Politics & Governance
APC Postpones House of Representatives Primaries
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has delayed its House of Representatives primary elections by one day. The vote, originally scheduled for Friday, has been shifted to Saturday, May 16, 2026. The decision comes as the ruling party intensifies its organizational push, aiming to manage internal consensus politics and address concerns from aspirants who fear they are being sidelined.
Tinubu Defends Tax Policies Amid Revenue Push
President Bola Tinubu has continued his advocacy for a broader tax base, emphasizing that national development cannot be achieved without adequate revenue generation. In remarks that have become a central theme of his administration’s fiscal policy, the President stated that citizens cannot demand world-class infrastructure while avoiding their tax obligations. This comes as the Federal Government insists on the continuation of its “no-subsidy” policy for petroleum products to preserve foreign exchange liquidity.
NJC Suspends Two Judges, Recommends Elevation of 12
The National Judicial Council (NJC) has suspended two judges for one year without pay over judicial misconduct. The decision was reached at the council’s 111th meeting held on May 13, chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. In a separate development, the NJC also recommended the appointment of 12 new justices to the Court of Appeal to fill vacancies arising from elevation and retirement, with the aim of strengthening the capacity of courts for effective justice delivery.
Economy & Finance
S&P Upgrades Nigeria’s Credit Rating to ‘B’
In a major vote of confidence for the Tinubu administration, S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Nigeria’s long-term foreign and local currency sovereign credit ratings to “B” from “B-“. The US-based agency cited improvements in the country’s macroeconomic profile, external position, and ongoing economic reforms. According to S&P, higher oil production, increased domestic refining capacity (including the Dangote Refinery), and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market have strengthened Nigeria’s economic growth and balance of payments position.
The agency projected that Nigeria’s debt-to-revenue ratio would decline significantly, while the current account surplus is expected to rise to 5.8% of GDP in 2026. Reacting to the news, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, welcomed the upgrade, stating that it reflected growing international confidence in the difficult but necessary reforms implemented under the President.
Inflation Rises to 15.69% in April
Despite the positive credit rating news, data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Friday showed that Nigeria’s headline inflation rate rose to 15.69% in April 2026, extending the upward trend in consumer prices. The increase from 15.38% in March was driven largely by elevated food prices, which climbed to 16.06% year-on-year. However, the report also offered a glimmer of hope, as monthly inflationary pressures slowed significantly compared to March, suggesting that the pace of price increases may be decelerating.
CBN Tightens Grip on Bank Governance
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has signaled a tougher regulatory stance on lenders following the completion of its recapitalisation programme. The apex bank is now reinforcing corporate governance rules to ensure that the combined N4.65 trillion injected into the system is channeled into productive sectors. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recognized the strategic importance of the recapitalisation exercise, stating that it is already yielding positive results and shielding the financial system from external shocks.
Bauchi Governor Flags Off N29.6bn Flood Control Project
In a move to combat environmental degradation, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed, has flagged off a N29.69 billion flood and erosion control project. The World Bank-funded initiative, under the ACReSAL program, aims to protect 213,000 residents from gully erosion and storm-water damage. Governor Mohammed stated that the project represents a bold milestone in his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and urban renewal.
Judiciary & Crime
Supreme Court Nullifies PDP National Convention
The Supreme Court has nullified the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Ibadan in November 2025, effectively settling a long-standing leadership dispute within the main opposition party. In a split judgment, a majority of the justices ruled that the faction led by Tanimu Turaki lacked merit in its appeal. In a related development, the Attorney General of the Federation has thrown its weight behind a suit seeking the deregistration of some political parties over alleged constitutional breaches.
Massive Drug Seizure at Tin Can Island Port
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has intercepted illicit drugs valued at N18.9 billion at the Tin Can Island Port Command. The seizure was announced by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, during a news conference, highlighting sustained inter-agency collaboration aimed at curbing the inflow of contraband through the nation’s seaports.
Infrastructure & Foreign Affairs
NEC Approves 112 as National Emergency Number
The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the adoption of “112” as Nigeria’s unified national emergency number. The decision, taken at the 157th NEC meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, is a major step toward strengthening coordinated responses to disasters and security incidents across the country.
Nigeria, Germany Seal €365 Million Development Pact
Nigeria and Germany have signed a new development cooperation agreement expected to strengthen investment and infrastructure financing. Germany committed fresh financial support worth €65 million and an additional €300 million export credit guarantee framework for Nigeria. This is part of the broader Agenda 2050 strategy aimed at diversifying the Nigerian economy.
FG Begins 30-Day Visa Exemption for Rwandan Nationals
The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan nationals entering Nigeria. The policy is part of efforts to ease travel and promote regional integration within the African Union.
Sports
Nigeria Shines at African Championships Relays
Nigeria’s women’s relay team won gold and silver medals at the African Championships, continuing the nation’s dominance on the continental athletics stage. The performances have boosted morale as athletes prepare for upcoming international competitions. Additionally, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has secured hosting rights for the 48th Extraordinary CAF Congress and Awards Ceremony, scheduled for October 2026.
Conclusion
From the tragic school attack in Oyo to the positive economic signals from S&P and the successful counter-terrorism operation against IS, Nigeria continues to navigate a complex landscape of security threats and financial reforms. As the nation looks toward the 2027 elections, political activities are intensifying, while institutions like the judiciary and the CBN work to enforce accountability and stability.
This news roundup is compiled from various Nigerian newspapers, including The Punch, ThisDay, Vanguard, Premium Times, The Nation, and Daily Trust. All information reported is as of May 16, 2026.
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