Good morning. Welcome to today’s newspaper headlines across Nigeria.
1) Daily Post — Ogudu–Ifako Bridge: LASG says 2nd-phase repairs start today, September 3
The Lagos State Government announced that fresh works begin today on the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge. This is part of ongoing repairs across key city bridges. Commuters should expect diversions and traffic delays in the affected areas.
2) Vanguard — Minimum wage: States have no excuse not to pay beyond ₦70,000 — NECA
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association insists that governors can afford to pay above the new wage floor, citing higher FAAC inflows. This strengthens labour’s hand in coming negotiations with states.
3) The Punch — Tariff war: Respect state electricity regulators, FG warns Discos
The Federal Government has reminded electricity distribution companies to submit to state regulators under the new Electricity Act. This signals tighter oversight, which could bring accountability but also fresh conflicts with Discos.
4) Daily Independent — Investing in children: Free Primary Education at 70 — Babatunde Jeariogbe
Seventy years since its launch in the Western Region, free primary education remains a benchmark in Nigeria’s development history. The reflection calls for renewed investments to tackle today’s learning poverty.
5) ThisDay — Crude Oil Refiners to Brainstorm on Africa’s Refining Agenda at 2025 Summit (Oct 6–7, Lagos)
Local refiners will meet in Lagos to push Africa’s energy security agenda. Discussions are expected to centre on funding, feedstock, and policy stability that could influence downstream investments.
6) The Guardian — 5G adoption drives smartphone use as MEA shipments rise by 3%
New reports show device shipments climbing in the Middle East and Africa, with 5G uptake fueling growth. Nigeria’s telcos and retailers may ride this momentum to expand data services and device sales.
7) Daily Trust — Woman seeks divorce over husband’s jealousy (Ilorin Area Court)
A human-interest case filed in Kwara highlights rising family disputes. While small in scope, such cases reflect the load on family courts and the growing need for structured mediation.
8) The Nation — Customs smashes smuggling ring in Ogun, Ondo
The Nigeria Customs Service announced fresh seizures along South-West corridors. The crackdown not only curbs lost revenue but also addresses security risks tied to border smuggling.
9) Nigerian Tribune — “We’ll work with him, but…” — Rivers APC speaks on Fubara’s Sept 18 return
The Rivers APC has pledged conditional cooperation as Governor Fubara prepares to resume full powers when emergency rule ends. This signals a tense but pragmatic political recalibration in the state.
10) Sun Newspapers — FG mulls privatisation of Ajaokuta Steel, refineries, airports, 89 other enterprises
The federal government is considering a sweeping privatisation agenda covering key industrial and infrastructure assets. If implemented, this would be one of the largest asset reforms in recent history.
