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Nigeria’s Inflation Eases to 16.05% in October, Signaling Seventh Straight Monthly Decline

Ola Akinola
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Nigeria’s Inflation Eases to 16.05% in October, Signaling Seventh Straight Monthly Decline

ABUJA — Nigeria’s headline inflation rate continued its downward trajectory in October 2025, dipping to 16.05% from 18.02% the previous month, according to fresh data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). 0 The figures, released Monday, mark the seventh consecutive monthly decline and offer a glimmer of relief for households battered by years of soaring prices, though analysts caution that underlying pressures in food costs remain a stubborn drag on the economy.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the average change in prices for a basket of goods and services, climbed to 128.9 points in October, a modest 1.2-point increase from September’s 127.7. 2 On a year-on-year basis, inflation stood at 17.82%, a sharp improvement from the 33.88% recorded in October 2024 — a drop attributed partly to a rebased calculation period starting from November 2009. 9 Month-on-month, the rate ticked up slightly to 0.93% from September’s 0.72%, hinting at lingering short-term volatility. 1

Food prices, long the Achilles’ heel of Nigeria’s inflation battle, were the dominant force behind the October uptick. The food and non-alcoholic beverages category contributed 6.42% to the overall rate, with staples like onions, fruits, shrimp, and meat seeing notable increases. 1 Food inflation itself eased to 13.12% year-on-year, down 26.04 percentage points from 39.16% a year earlier, buoyed by seasonal harvests and a stronger naira. 2 Other key contributors included restaurants and accommodation services at 2.07%, and transport at 1.35%. In contrast, sectors like health, clothing and footwear, and insurance saw more subdued impacts, each under 1%.

The three-month average CPI ending October rose 22.09% year-on-year, while the 12-month average climbed 22.02% — both reflecting a 10.24 percentage-point slowdown from October 2024’s 32.26%. 2 This broader cooling trend underscores the effects of recent policy measures, including the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) interest rate cut to 27% in September — the first in five years — amid stabilizing global oil prices and improved agricultural output.

Urban and Rural Divides Persist

Inflation’s retreat was evident across urban and rural landscapes, though disparities highlight ongoing inequities. Urban year-on-year inflation fell to 15.65%, a 20.73-point plunge from 36.38% in October 2024, with the 12-month average at 22.68% — down 11.84 points. 3 Month-on-month urban pressures edged higher to 1.14% from 0.74%.

In rural areas, the rate stood at 15.86% year-on-year, 15.73 points lower than the prior year’s 31.59%, with the 12-month average at 20.81% — a 9.42-point improvement. 3 Rural month-on-month inflation dipped to 0.45% from September’s 0.67%, suggesting some seasonal relief in agricultural communities.

These patterns point to a fragile stabilization, with economists eyeing the CBN’s upcoming Monetary Policy Committee meeting on November 24-25 for potential further rate adjustments. 6 “While the headline drop is encouraging, the base effect and persistent food vulnerabilities mean true relief for low-income families is still uneven,” said one analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Sustained investment in supply chains and subsidies will be key to locking in these gains.”

The NBS data arrives as Nigeria grapples with broader economic headwinds, including subsidy removals and currency reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Yet, with inflation now at its lowest since March 2022, there is cautious optimism that the worst may be over — provided structural reforms keep pace. 6

Africa Can Eliminate Cervical Cancer in One Generation, Says WHO

Toyin Adebayo
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Africa Can Eliminate Cervical Cancer in One Generation, Says WHO

ABUJA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that cervical cancer can be eliminated across Africa within a single generation, provided countries urgently scale up HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment services.

In a strongly worded message marking World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day on 17 November, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti (correction: the original text incorrectly named Dr. Mohamed Janabi; the current Regional Director is Dr. Matshidiso Moeti), called for renewed political will and sustained investment to end what she described as a “preventable tragedy.”

“Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death among women in our region, yet it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early,” Dr. Moeti said. “With the tools we have today — safe and effective HPV vaccines, simple screening tests, and accessible treatment — elimination is not a dream. It is a realistic target.”

Progress and momentum

Significant strides have been made in recent years. Thirty-two African countries have now introduced the HPV vaccine into routine immunisation programmes, reaching nearly half of eligible girls. Several additional nations launched national roll-outs in 2025, with at least eight more scheduled to begin in 2026.

“Every new country that introduces the vaccine is saving lives before the cancer even has a chance to develop,” Dr. Moeti noted.

The WHO is also promoting the Women’s Integrated Cancer Services (WICS) framework, which integrates cervical and breast cancer screening and early treatment into primary health care. The initiative, presented to African health ministers at the 75th WHO Regional Committee for Africa, aims to deliver “continuous, women-centred care” at the community level.

Global partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the Government of Spain, are supporting countries with updated national cancer plans, training for health workers, and essential radiotherapy and diagnostic equipment.

The remaining gaps

Despite these advances, the WHO warns that major barriers persist. Millions of women still have no access to screening or timely treatment, and many health systems lack the resources and infrastructure needed to close the gap.

“Too many women continue to be diagnosed late, when treatment is less effective and more costly,” Dr. Moeti said. “We cannot accept a situation where a woman’s postcode determines whether she lives or dies from a preventable disease.”

She urged all African governments to accelerate action across the three pillars of the global cervical cancer elimination strategy:

  • Achieve 90% HPV vaccination coverage of girls by age 15
  • Screen 70% of women at least twice in their lifetime
  • Ensure 90% of women with cervical disease receive appropriate treatment

A call for sustained commitment

“Elimination will not happen overnight,” Dr. Moeti emphasised. “It demands long-term political leadership, predictable financing, community engagement, and the active involvement of men and boys in supporting women’s health.”

Concluding her message, she stated: “Together, we can create an Africa where no woman dies from cervical cancer — a future in which every girl and woman, no matter where she is born, has the protection, care, and dignity she deserves.”

World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, observed annually on 17 November, was established by the World Health Assembly in 2020 as part of the global strategy to eliminate the disease as a public health problem by 2030 in every country.

AEPB Launches Citywide Sanitation Crackdown with 54 New Contractors

Toyin Adebayo
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AEPB Launches Citywide Sanitation Crackdown with 54 New Contractors

Official: “In Five Days, Abuja Will Forget Its Filthy Past”

The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) kicked off a rigorous sanitation enforcement campaign on Monday, deploying 54 freshly contracted solid waste management firms to scour and clear refuse across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The initiative stems from last week’s mandate by FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, who convened the contractors and demanded swift sanitation upgrades, tolerating no pretexts or foot-dragging.

During an on-site inspection of the inaugural operations, Enwerem Benjamin, AEPB’s Director of Solid Waste Management (North), underscored the minister’s resolve to reclaim the city’s luster. “This launch aligns directly with the minister’s instructions. We’re evaluating their rollout of machinery and staff today,” Benjamin said.

The oversight squad had already surveyed the Central Business District, Maitama, and sections of Asokoro, reporting an encouraging debut. “Their showing is solid—they’ve hit the ground running. Maintain this pace, and as the minister predicted, in just five days, Abuja residents will scarcely recall the squalor of recent months,” he affirmed.

Benjamin lauded Wike’s endorsement of the overdue cleaning pacts, while appealing to the public for cooperation through disciplined waste handling. “Households lacking approved bins must acquire them without delay; enforcement sweeps are imminent,” he alerted.

He reiterated the perils of littering, stressing that a pristine capital demands seamless contractor execution paired with civic accountability.

AEPB plans ongoing daily audits to uphold compliance, as the FCT Administration strives to reestablish Abuja among Africa’s most immaculate urban centers.

Kebbi School Abduction: Police, Govt Confirm 25 Girls Kidnapped by Armed Terrorists

Ola Akinola
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0
Kebbi School Abduction: Police, Govt Confirm 25 Girls Kidnapped by Armed Terrorists

Raid Highlights Security Lapses Despite Checkpoints; Rescue Efforts Underway

The Kebbi State Police Command and state government have verified the early-morning raid on Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area, where armed terrorists abducted 25 female students from their dormitory, killing one staff member in the process.

In a statement on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer Nafiu Kotarkoshi, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), detailed the assault, noting that the attackers—armed with sophisticated weaponry—breached the school perimeter around 4 a.m. A police tactical unit engaged the assailants in a firefight, but the bandits scaled the fence and fled with the victims to an undisclosed location.

“Unfortunately, the suspected bandits had already… abducted twenty-five students… to an unknown destination,” Kotarkoshi said, confirming the death of a school staffer during the chaos. He clarified that a local guard identified as Ali was injured, not killed, contradicting initial reports that listed two fatalities: teacher Hassan Makuku and Ali.

The Kebbi State Government echoed the confirmation, with Chief Press Secretary Ahmed Idris stating that Deputy Governor Umar Tafida had dispatched a delegation of officials and security forces to the site for on-ground assessment and support.

Raid Amid Security Gaps

The brazen incursion has stunned residents, particularly given the presence of military checkpoints in the vicinity. One is located in Damarke, under Bukkuyum LGA in neighboring Zamfara State, approximately seven kilometers away, while another sits less than a kilometer from the school.

Community sources expressed bewilderment at the lapse, alleging the attack might have been thwarted had soldiers followed Governor Nasir Idris’s directive. After receiving prior intelligence on a potential threat, the governor reportedly ordered reinforcements from the nearby outpost. However, the troops allegedly withdrew, leaving outnumbered police to respond alone.

“The terrorists overpowered the police officers who confronted them,” one local intelligence operative with the State Security Service (SSS) told PREMIUM TIMES under anonymity. Queries to Nigerian Army spokesperson Appolonia Anele remain unanswered as of press time.

Kotarkoshi assured that reinforced police units, military detachments, and local vigilantes are actively pursuing the kidnappers. “They are currently combing the bandits’ routes and nearby forests with a view to rescuing the abducted students and possibly arresting the perpetrators,” he added.

Suspects: Dogo Gide or Falando?

The identity of the perpetrators remains unconfirmed, but security sources point to notorious bandit leaders operating in the region. Dogo Gide’s faction, known for cross-border raids, could have exploited the terrain, one SSS contact suggested. Alternatively, the attack bears hallmarks of Falando’s group, which bases in the nearby Gando forest.

“It may be the group of Falando operating from Gando forest,” a Maga-area resident speculated.

Echoes of Chibok: A Pattern of School Raids

This incident revives traumatic memories of the 2014 Chibok kidnapping by Boko Haram, which spurred a wave of student abductions across Nigeria’s Northwest and North-Central zones. Kidnappers often demand ransoms, enforce forced marriages, or enslave victims.

Kebbi’s history includes the June 2021 seizure of about 80 students and five teachers from Federal Government College, Birnin Yauri by Dogo Gide’s men. Releases occurred in phases through 2023, though some girls returned pregnant; the state now funds scholarships for survivors resuming education.

Similar horrors unfolded in May 2021 with nearly 200 abductions from an Islamic school in Tegina, Niger State, shortly after 14 Greenfield University students in Kaduna were freed. February 2021 saw 300 girls taken from Jangebe, Zamfara, most later released. In 2024, over 100 Kuriga elementary pupils in Kaduna were snatched and subsequently rescued, with authorities denying any ransom payment.

As search operations intensify, the Maga abductions underscore persistent vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s education sector, where schools remain soft targets despite federal vows to fortify security. Families and officials alike await swift resolution, with the girls’ safe return a top priority.

ASUU Issues Four-Week Ultimatum to Federal Government, Warns of Nationwide Strike

Ola Akinola
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0
ASUU Issues Four-Week Ultimatum to Federal Government, Warns of Nationwide Strike

CALABAR — The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has delivered a four-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding urgent resolution of longstanding grievances in the public university system or face an indefinite nationwide strike.

The warning came from Ikechukwu Igwenyi, Zonal Coordinator of ASUU’s Calabar Zone, during a media briefing in Calabar on Monday, November 17, 2025. Igwenyi decried the government’s persistent delays in honoring key agreements, which he said have exacerbated challenges like inadequate funding and staff welfare.

Central to ASUU’s demands is the full renegotiation and implementation of the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement, complete with enforceable timelines. The union seeks enhanced remuneration and working conditions to curb the brain drain of academic talent from Nigerian universities.

Additional priorities include the release of three-and-a-half months’ withheld salaries, payment of all outstanding dues, refunds for unauthorized third-party deductions, and settlement of promotion arrears. ASUU also pressed for the disbursement of the pending 25–35% wage increase, including consequential adjustments, alongside higher budgetary allocations to education and sustainable funding models for public institutions.

Igwenyi accused the government of eroding university autonomy through unilateral policy directives, urging strict compliance with existing legal frameworks.

The ultimatum was formalized in a statement co-signed by Igwenyi and representatives from institutions across the Calabar Zone, including the University of Calabar (UNICAL), University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Abia State University (ABSU), Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Federal University, Otuoke (FUNAI), University of Education, Ekiadolor (UEE), and University of Uyo (UNIUYO).

“We shall remain unbowed, unbroken, and unwavering in this just struggle, with profound faith in the certainty of victory,” the statement declared, framing the standoff as a defense of education as a fundamental right rather than a privilege. The union attributed Nigeria’s educational woes not to fiscal constraints but to a lack of political commitment, vowing to “rebuild the Nigerian university system of our dream with the ashes of the struggle.”

As the deadline approaches, the impasse risks further disrupting academic calendars, echoing ASUU’s history of strikes that have paralyzed higher education in Nigeria. The Federal Government has yet to respond publicly to the latest demands.

UK Tightens Immigration Policy

Toyin Adebayo
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UK Tightens Immigration Policy

The UK government announced a major overhaul of its asylum system on November 16, 2025, described as the largest in modern times, aimed at tightening controls amid record-high application numbers—around 111,000 claims in the year to June 2025, up from previous periods. Key elements include reviewing human rights laws under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to expedite deportations of migrants arriving illegally, such as by small boats across the English Channel. This involves revoking the statutory duty to provide housing and financial support to certain asylum seekers, shifting toward more temporary protections rather than indefinite refugee status for some groups.

The changes reflect public and political pressure, with immigration consistently ranking as a top concern in recent polls. 11 Officials cited the need to deter unsafe crossings and prioritize border security, while maintaining commitments to genuine refugees. Broader immigration rules were also updated on November 11, 2025, extending the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (permanent settlement) from five to ten years in many cases, and tightening visa sponsorship requirements for employers.

These measures build on earlier enforcement actions, including increased illegal working raids and returns, with over 1,700 operations in October 2025 alone. Critics argue the reforms could strain international obligations, while supporters view them as essential for managing inflows and reducing reliance on hotels for asylum accommodation. Implementation details are ongoing, with further consultations expected.

United Nigeria Airlines Deplanes VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof After On-Board Altercation

Ola Akinola
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0
United Nigeria Airlines Deplanes VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof After On-Board Altercation

LAGOS — United Nigeria Airlines on Monday removed two prominent Nigerian social media personalities, Martins Vincent Otse (popularly known as VeryDarkMan) and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi (known as Mr Jollof), from a scheduled Asaba-to-Lagos flight following a physical altercation during boarding. The passengers were subsequently handed over to airport security authorities.

The incident occurred at Asaba International Airport ahead of Flight UN0523 on the morning of 17 November 2025.

In a statement posted on its official X account and signed by the airline’s management, United Nigeria Airlines confirmed the disruption and outlined the crew’s response:

“An altercation occurred between two passengers identified as Martins Vincent Otse ‘VeryDarkMan’ and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi ‘Mr Jollof’ during boarding. In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation. Both passengers were deboarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members. They were subsequently handed over to airport security for further investigation.”

The airline emphasised its strict safety policy, stating it maintains “a zero-tolerance approach to any conduct that threatens the security or well-being of passengers or crew.” After standard procedures were completed, the flight departed Asaba without further incident.

The confrontation marks the latest escalation in a weeks-long public feud between the two internet figures, who have repeatedly clashed on social media over various socio-political issues. Their online exchanges have attracted considerable attention and polarised followers.

As of publication, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had not issued an official comment on the matter. Attempts to reach NCAA spokespersons for reaction were unsuccessful.

United Nigeria Airlines reiterated its commitment to “providing a safe, respectful, and secure travel experience” for all passengers across its network.

Police Debunk Assassination Attempt Claims on Naval Officer After Wike Clash

Ola Akinola
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0
Police Debunk Assassination Attempt Claims on Naval Officer After Wike Clash

FCT Command Urges Public to Ignore Unverified Reports Amid Speculation

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has refuted circulating reports of an assassination attempt on Lt. Ahmed Yerima, a Nigerian Navy officer, labeling the allegations baseless and unrecorded.

The claims, amplified by several news outlets (excluding PUNCH) and social media, alleged that Yerima was pursued by unidentified men in black attire aboard two unmarked Hilux vans without license plates. The supposed chase began around 6:30 p.m. at the NIPCO filling station on Kubwa Expressway, extending to Gado Nasco Way, with Yerima escaping via evasive maneuvers.

Speculation tied the incident to Yerima’s recent standoff with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on November 11 over a contested plot in Gaduwa District, purportedly owned by retired Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo, former Chief of Naval Staff.

In a Sunday night statement, Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh emphasized: “No such incident has been reported or recorded within the FCT.” She advised the public to dismiss the misinformation, avoid disseminating unverified details that could incite panic, and report suspicions to local stations.

Viral footage from the clash depicted Yerima, on security assignment, obstructing Wike’s entourage from accessing the site. Wike accused Gambo of unauthorized construction and reprimanded Yerima for purportedly assaulting Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) staff attempting to intervene, at one point calling the officer a “fool” and challenging his jurisdiction.

The episode sparked polarized reactions: Proponents of Wike viewed it as enforcement of regulatory duties, while military veterans defended Yerima, opposing disciplinary measures and seeking an apology from the minister.

Defence Minister Mohammed Abubakar reinforced support for personnel in lawful roles, stating during a briefing on the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day: “We will always protect officers on lawful duty,” ruling out sanctions against compliant service members.

Anyanwu Faction Urges Halt to PDP Convention, Citing Court Injunctions and BoT Report

Ola Akinola
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0
Anyanwu Faction Urges Halt to PDP Convention, Citing Court Injunctions and BoT Report

Leaders Insist on Reconciliation, Legal Compliance Before Proceeding

A faction aligned with PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu has called on the Ambassador Ilyas Damagum-led leadership to honor the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Reconciliation Committee findings and suspend plans for the national convention scheduled for November 15–16, deeming it legally unsustainable amid multiple court restrictions.

As of Friday, three Federal High Courts in Abuja had issued injunctions barring the PDP from convening, while an Oyo State High Court adjourned related proceedings to December 8.

At a Friday press conference in Abuja, South-South Zonal Secretary Bar. George Turna, joined by Abia State PDP Chairman Hon. Amah Abraham and Imo State Chairman Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, urged adherence to the court rulings, full implementation of the BoT report, and strict legal observance.

The group advocated restoring constitutional governance, resolving internal rifts, and convening a legitimate convention only after these steps. They referenced Justice Omotosho’s ruling, now under appeal, noting that appellate proceedings mandate preserving the status quo. “Proceeding with the convention would defy the law,” they asserted, also citing Justice Lifu’s recent decision on exclusions.

They maintained that no valid PDP convention can occur, as declarations from the Acting National Chairman and National Secretary—the sole authorities for notices—have precluded any such event nationwide.

“The BoT report, as the party’s moral compass, must be actioned promptly to address grievances and stabilize operations,” the spokespersons said, highlighting widespread frustration over disarray.

Formed on November 5, 2025, the BoT Reconciliation Committee aimed to settle disputes and facilitate a peaceful convention, recommending delays until court clearances and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) endorsements are obtained amid legal hurdles.

The faction pushed for an inclusive Caretaker Committee, warning that a flawed convention risks nullifying PDP candidacies across the country. They implored the National Working Committee (NWC) to suspend actions, revoke bans, and pursue authentic unity.

Emphasizing the BoT’s mediating role and constitutional fidelity, they opposed pending amendments—like elevating the Governors’ Forum to organ status—until harmony is restored. The group appealed to the BoT, NWC, Governors’ Forum, and stakeholders to iron out differences for a transparent, lawful process, cautioning that inaction could exacerbate fractures and undermine the party’s viability.

FG Eyes N160bn Output from 2025/2026 Dry Season Wheat Drive

Toyin Adebayo
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0
FG Eyes N160bn Output from 2025/2026 Dry Season Wheat Drive

Initiative Aims to Bolster Food Security, Cut Import Reliance

The Federal Government is projecting N160 billion in output value from the 2025/2026 dry season wheat production, a key step toward achieving food sovereignty and minimizing import dependency, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

Minister Abubakar Kyari announced the target during the launch of the Subsidised Agricultural Inputs Distribution program in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) initiative.

Kyari disclosed that NAGS-AP has designated 40,000 hectares for cultivation, registering 80,000 farmers nationwide. Borno State receives 3,000 hectares and support for 6,000 farmers, leveraging irrigation in the region.

He highlighted past achievements: In the 2023/2024 season, 107,429 farmers were aided, yielding N474.628 billion; the 2024/2025 cycle supported 279,297 farmers for N893.75 billion. “For 2025/2026, we’re focusing on 80,000 farmers to hit N160 billion,” Kyari said.

The program deploys extension agents for modern farming techniques and quality control officers to verify seeds and fertilizers, ensuring optimal yields. It spans 16 states—Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Cross River, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara—with Cross River’s inclusion marking southern expansion.

Kyari stressed inclusivity: “NAGS-AP leaves no one behind, prioritizing women and youth in training and opportunities.” He underscored input quality: “Certified seeds, precise fertilizers, and timely crop protection are non-negotiable for national productivity.”

Borno Governor Babagana Zulum commended the federal push, noting the state’s vast irrigable lands in the Lake Chad Basin. “This is a celebration of hope and resilience amid challenges like insecurity and climate shocks,” he said, reaffirming commitments to infrastructure, machinery, and inputs for all-season farming. Zulum touted successes in aiding smallholders, resettled families, women, and youth.

Haruna Umaru, speaking for smallholder farmers, vowed to maximize productivity in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The event culminated in distributing subsidized inputs to beneficiaries, signaling a robust start to the season.

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