Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Wednesday, 18th December, 2024

Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the IDOMA VOICE News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Wednesday, 18th December 2024

1. Tinubu Promises to Build on Buhari’s Legacy
   President Bola Tinubu has vowed to continue and expand on the legacy of infrastructure development left by his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari. In a statement released for Buhari’s 82nd birthday, Tinubu expressed his respect and admiration for the former president, highlighting his persistence in presidential contests and the substantial progress made during his tenure.

2. Tinubu Approves International Airport for Abia
   Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, revealed that the construction of an international airport in Abia is part of President Tinubu’s commitment to the South East’s development. The project is expected to transform the region into a commercial hub, with the federal government backing it and the state contributing through runway upgrades.

3. Edo Assembly Suspends 18 LG Chairmen Over Misconduct
   The Edo State House of Assembly has suspended all 18 local government chairmen after a petition from Governor Monday Okpebholo. The chairmen were accused of insubordination for failing to submit financial accounts. The suspension follows allegations of misconduct and poor governance at the local government level.

4. Garba Shehu Criticizes Obasanjo’s Attacks on Successors
   In a birthday message to former President Buhari, Garba Shehu criticized Olusegun Obasanjo for repeatedly undermining his successors and calling for their removal after elections. Shehu praised Buhari for maintaining a low profile since leaving office and allowing the new administration space to stabilize.

5. Reps Demand Immediate Release of Bello Badejo
   The House of Representatives has called for the immediate release of Bello Badejo, who is in “unlawful detention” by the Nigerian Army. The resolution, passed during plenary, also summoned top military officials to address the matter, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff.

6. Human Rights Situation in Nigeria Remains Dire – Isa Sanusi
   Isa Sanusi, Country Director of Amnesty International, stated that the human rights situation in Nigeria is worsening. He criticized the government for using the Cybercrime Act to target journalists and activists and highlighted the economic hardship facing Nigerians, alongside ongoing conflicts in the North.

7. Keyamo Calls Alex Otti a ‘Prodigal Son’ for Leaving APC
   Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation, described Abia State Governor Alex Otti as a “prodigal son” for leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Labour Party. Keyamo remarked on Otti’s political journey, noting his shift from the APC to the Labour Party, which helped him win the 2023 elections.

8. NAFDAC Warns of Operational Challenges Due to Staff Shortage
   The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over its severe understaffing, which is affecting its ability to carry out critical operations. Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye called on the government to address the staffing issue to improve service delivery.

9. Senate Proposes Ban on Use of Foreign Currencies for Transactions
   The Nigerian Senate has proposed a bill to ban the use of foreign currencies, including the Dollar and Pound, for domestic transactions. The bill aims to strengthen the Naira and reduce dependence on foreign currencies, promoting economic independence and stability.

10. Uche Secondus Assures Rivers Governor Fubara of Victory
    Former PDP National Chairman Uche Secondus expressed confidence that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara would overcome political challenges. Speaking at the commissioning of a new road project in Bori Town, Secondus praised Fubara’s leadership and commitment to peace in the state, while subtly criticizing the Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike for his current stance.