Nigerian newspapers headlines for today, Thursday, 5th February 2026

Here are 10 key things from today’s Naija News newspaper roundup Thursday, February 5, 2026

1. Senate Passes New Electoral Act

After weeks of intense deliberations, the Senate approved the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, cutting INEC’s notice-of-election timeline from 360 days to 180 days ahead of polls.

2. NNPC Admits Refineries Were Draining Public Funds

NNPCL boss, Bayo Ojulari, disclosed that Nigeria’s refineries were running at massive losses, describing continued spending on them as financially reckless.

3. INEC Concludes Work on 2027 Election Timetable

The electoral umpire confirmed it has finalized the timetable for the 2027 general elections, pending adjustments based on amendments to the Electoral Act.

4. Governor Alia Condemns Fresh Benue Bandit Attack

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, described the killing of residents and a mobile police officer in Kwande LGA as a “cowardly act of terror”.

5. Kogi Government Explains Sudden School Closures

Authorities said the shutdown of schools across Kogi State was based on credible security intelligence and aimed at preventing possible attacks.

6. Senate Clarifies Position on Electronic Result Transmission

Senate President Godswill Akpabio dismissed claims that lawmakers scrapped electronic transmission of election results, insisting the provision remains intact.

7. Veteran Actor Okunnu Accuses Marketer of Owing Him

Nollywood actor Wale Akorede (Okunnu) publicly accused film marketer Olasco of failing to pay him for a completed movie project.

8. Singer Fave Blames Ramadan for Cancelled Nigeria Show

The artiste revealed that her birthday concert plans were frustrated after promoters cited Ramadan restrictions as the reason for rejection.

9. Cristiano Ronaldo Returns to Al Nassr Training

The football star resumed training amid speculation over Saudi Pro League tensions and his recent absence from competitive matches.

10. Amaju Pinnick Explains Why Eberechi Eze Rejected Super Eagles

Former NFF president revealed that delays and indecision led to Eze eventually turning down the chance to play for Nigeria.