Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Wednesday, 20th November, 2024

Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the IDOMA VOICE News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Wednesday, 20th November 2024

1. President Bola Tinubu has written to the National Assembly requesting approval for ₦1.767 trillion in external loans to help finance the ₦9.7 trillion budget deficit for 2024. The funds will support economic and developmental priorities.

2. Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, argues that politicians opposing President Tinubu’s tax reform proposals have not properly studied the bill. He claims that once reviewed, the bill will be seen as beneficial for the nation.

3. The Federal Government has lifted restrictions on the deployment of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, allowing them to be posted to private sector companies such as banks and oil firms. The decision aligns with President Tinubu’s focus on tackling youth unemployment.

4. Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Mohammad Abubakar II, dismissed claims that traditional rulers fear state governors. He clarified that while they respect governors, the relationship is not rooted in fear but mutual recognition of authority.

5. President Tinubu has forwarded a bill to the National Assembly for the establishment of the National Social Investment Programme Agency. The bill aims to improve the targeting of welfare programs to Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.

6. Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, disclosed that terrorists are increasingly using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to destabilize communities, destroy infrastructure, and instill fear.

7. Delta State SSG, Kingsley Emu, dismissed allegations against former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as politically motivated. Emu claims the charges are part of efforts to tarnish Okowa’s reputation ahead of the 2027 elections.

8. Ogun State PDP governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu rejected allegations by the DSS, claiming they were baseless attempts to suppress his political voice. Adebutu was detained over the Ogun local elections and accused the state leadership of undermining local government autonomy.

9. Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) expressed frustration over oil theft, claiming that influential figures in Lagos and Abuja are benefiting from the illicit activity. He also reported an incident where Nigerian Navy personnel allegedly hindered his team’s efforts.

10. Senator Jimoh Ibrahim supported President Tinubu’s borrowing plans, suggesting that Nigeria should consider borrowing over $50 billion instead of the proposed ₦1.767 trillion. He emphasized that the loans should be used for infrastructural development, citing Dubai’s successful use of large-scale borrowing for development.