Here’s a breakdown of some key issues in the public consciousness:
Security Challenges:
Boko Haram and ISWAP Insurgency: The northeastern states, particularly Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa, continue to experience attacks from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Just yesterday, April 12, there were reports of an IED explosion by Boko Haram on the Damboa-Maiduguri road in Borno, resulting in fatalities. Senator Ndume has also stated that Boko Haram has taken over three communities in Borno.
Banditry and Kidnapping: Armed banditry and kidnapping for ransom remain prevalent in the northwest and other parts of the country. States like Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara are particularly affected. Kidnappings have also increased in wealthier areas of Lagos and surrounding states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja).
Herder-Farmer Conflicts: Clashes between herding and farming communities, driven by competition over land and resources, persist in the Middle Belt and other regions, exacerbating ethnic tensions.
Oil Pipeline Attacks: There have been recent reports of attacks on oil pipelines in the Niger Delta region, specifically on Oando pipelines in Bayelsa State, which has led to a dip in Nigeria’s gas exports.
Government Response: The Nigerian government insists it is actively addressing these security threats by deploying security forces, engaging in peace-building efforts, and strengthening intelligence operations. However, they have rejected claims made by some clergymen at a US Congressional hearing that the government has allowed violence to escalate unchecked, stating that such reports misrepresent the complex security challenges the nation faces.
Political Landscape:
Supreme Court Rulings: Politicians are reportedly twisting recent Supreme Court rulings to their advantage, leading to varied interpretations of verdicts.
Local Government Elections: The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has been criticized by political parties for a lack of transparency in the lead-up to the 2025 local government elections.
Call for Non-Voters to be Jailed: A provocative bill proposing jail terms for non-voters has been met with criticism from Nigerian students.
Edo State Politics: Calls for the removal of the Speaker of the Edo State Assembly have intensified as the All Progressives Congress (APC) holds a majority in the assembly.
Economy and Business:
Tariff Impact: The potential impact of new US tariffs on Chinese goods is being closely monitored, with concerns about retaliatory tariffs and disruptions to global trade. Nigeria’s cashew industry is also assessing the implications of these tariffs.
Aviation Workers’ Strike: Aviation workers are threatening to resume strike action due to alleged breaches of agreements.
Fuel Price and Supply: Another petrol tanker explosion occurred in Oyo State, destroying shops and vehicles near the Ibadan toll gate, highlighting ongoing safety concerns related to fuel transportation. There were also reports of an MRS filling station reducing fuel prices.
Credit Rating Upgrade: Fitch Ratings has upgraded Nigeria’s credit rating, backing the government’s reforms.
Foreign Investment: A real estate firm has reportedly attracted over $100 million in healthcare investment to Ogun State, indicating some positive economic developments. Japan has also granted Nigeria $30 million for start-up hubs in Abuja.
Social Issues:
Meningitis Outbreak: A meningitis outbreak is rapidly spreading across Nigeria, with over 150 deaths reported, mainly affecting children in the northern region. Access to healthcare and low vaccination coverage are contributing to the high fatality rate.
Lassa Fever: Kano State has recorded a new case of Lassa fever, although over 20 exposed health workers have tested negative.
Child Abandonment: A day-old baby was found abandoned in the Mpape area of Abuja, highlighting issues of child welfare.
Extortion Allegations: The Police Commissioner in Ondo State has redeployed a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) following allegations of extortion.
Drug Seizures: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed a record 1.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs seized at Lagos Airport and other locations.
Other Notable Events:
Death of Christian Chukwu: The death of former Super Eagles coach and football legend Christian Chukwu has been mourned across the nation.
US Visa Policy Changes: The US Embassy in Nigeria has announced new requirements for visa applications.
Cultural Events: There are reports on how some Nigerians are paying for social media followers and the cultural significance of Akara (bean cake) sellers defying superstitions to run their businesses.
