Nigerian Newspaper Headlines Review for September 23, 2025
Welcome to today’s edition of our Nigerian Newspaper Headlines Review, where we bring you the top stories from 10 major dailies, carefully verified and analysed for deeper understanding.
1. Vanguard — No visa for corrupt Nigerian officials — US Mission
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has warned that corrupt officials could be barred from receiving U.S. visas. This move signals international pressure against Nigeria’s entrenched corruption and could affect politicians, public servants, and even business figures. Analysts say this may strengthen local anti-graft agencies, but whether it will bite remains to be seen.
2. Punch — Banditry: Five abducted in Plateau, Kwara, police tighten Osun borders
Fresh abductions in Plateau and Kwara States highlight the unrelenting insecurity challenge. Punch reports that police have intensified security checks across Osun borders to forestall spillover. Citizens remain on edge as communities continue to bear the brunt of rising banditry despite repeated government assurances.
3. ThisDay — Senate reconvenes September 23 to address pressing national issues
The Senate, which resumes sitting today, is expected to deliberate on key national matters including security, economic policy, and constitutional reforms. Political watchers predict heated debates as senators align with regional and party blocs. This reconvening is seen as a test of legislative independence under Tinubu’s administration.
4. The Guardian — LBS, Stanbic push climate-smart communities in Nigeria
The Guardian reports on a Lagos Business School and Stanbic IBTC initiative to champion sustainable, climate-resilient communities. Experts stress that Nigeria risks being left behind if green finance is not mainstreamed. The summit highlights opportunities in renewable energy, housing, and agriculture as the nation confronts climate shocks.
5. Premium Times — Akwa Ibom declares 23 September work-free day
Akwa Ibom State Government has declared today a public holiday to mark its 38th anniversary. While citizens celebrate, analysts argue that beyond symbolism, the state must focus on tackling unemployment and improving infrastructure. Critics say repeated holidays do little to address pressing developmental gaps.
6. Daily Trust — US threatens to bar corrupt individuals from receiving visas
Echoing Vanguard, Daily Trust emphasizes Washington’s firm stance against corruption in Nigeria. The threat comes amid growing frustration among Nigerians over elite impunity. Analysts note this move could also influence electoral politics, as tainted politicians may find their global access shrinking.
7. The Nation — Senate adjourns plenary to September 23
The Nation reports on the Senate’s resumption after a short adjournment. Legislative agenda is expected to focus on constitutional amendments and oversight of executive actions. The coming weeks will reveal whether lawmakers can rise above partisan politics to address citizens’ urgent needs.
8. The Sun — Fubara visits Tinubu at Presidential Villa
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State met President Tinubu at Aso Rock. Though details remain sketchy, observers believe the visit signals efforts to cool political tensions after months of crisis with Wike loyalists. This meeting could pave the way for a fragile peace in Rivers politics.
9. Daily Post — Nigeria’s GDP growth masks citizens’ frustrations under Tinubu — Economists
Despite positive GDP numbers, Daily Post highlights that ordinary Nigerians feel little relief from soaring prices and unemployment. Economists argue growth without equitable distribution is meaningless. Many citizens believe government policies benefit the elite while worsening hardship for the average household.
10. Tribune — Fubara declares peace with Wike after meeting Tinubu
Tribune reports that Governor Fubara has openly sought peace with his political rival, Nyesom Wike, after a presidential intervention. The move, if sustained, could ease Rivers’ political tensions. Analysts, however, warn that the truce is fragile and could unravel once 2027 political ambitions come to the fore.
