NEWS

Palm Sunday Attack in Jos Leaves 20 Dead as Plateau State Imposes Curfew

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Large crowd gathered at a tragic incident scene in Nigeria with visible community response and emergency presence

At least 20 people were killed and several others injured in a deadly attack on Palm Sunday evening in the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos, Plateau State.

The incident occurred between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. when gunmen stormed the Gari Ya Waye community within Angwan Rukuba.

Residents were reportedly observing the iftar meal to break the Ramadan fast when the attackers struck, causing widespread panic across the area.

The attack has left the community in mourning as families grieve the loss of loved ones. Many victims sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

As of now, security agencies are yet to release an official statement on the identity of the attackers or the exact number of casualties, but investigations are ongoing.

Plateau State Government Imposes 48-Hour Curfew

In response to the tragic incident, the Plateau State Government, under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has imposed an immediate 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area.

The curfew, which started at midnight on Sunday, March 29, 2026, will run until April 1, 2026.

The state government strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unprovoked.” In a press release signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt.

This latest attack adds to the long list of security challenges in Plateau State, a region that has witnessed repeated violent incidents in recent years.

It comes after NAF airstrikes that killed top ISWAP commanders in Sambisa Forest, showing that while progress is being made in some areas, violence continues to plague parts of northern and central Nigeria.

Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government assured residents that all necessary steps are being taken to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

Citizens have been urged to remain calm, stay vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that could aid the investigation.

This latest attack adds to the long list of security challenges in Plateau State, a region that has witnessed repeated violent incidents in recent years.

Many residents are calling for stronger security measures and urgent action from both state and federal authorities to restore peace in the area.

The situation remains tense, and more updates are expected as security forces continue their operations in the affected communities.

The tragic Palm Sunday attack in Jos has once again highlighted the urgent need for sustainable peace, as recently emphasized by President Tinubu’s approval of N2 billion relief for Plateau attack victims while urging local leaders to find lasting solutions.

Important Update for Nigerians Receiving Money from Abroad: CBN Issues New Directive with May 1 Deadline

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Central Bank of Nigeria building with digital overlays showing international remittance and money transfer alerts

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has rolled out new rules for International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) that will directly affect how Nigerians receive money from abroad.

In a circular dated March 24, 2026, the apex bank directed all IMTOs to open and maintain naira settlement accounts with authorized dealer banks.

What the New CBN Remittance Rules Mean

From May 1, 2026, all remittance inflows, beneficiary payments, and related settlements must be processed exclusively through these designated naira accounts.

The goal is to improve transparency, strengthen monitoring, and ensure better traceability of foreign exchange transactions in the country.

IMTOs are allowed to operate more than one settlement account across different banks if their operations require it, but they must clearly designate these accounts and keep the CBN updated.

Infographic showing new CBN remittance process from IMTO to naira settlement account and Nigerian beneficiary

Importantly, these accounts can only be funded through legitimate remittance inflows and approved foreign exchange conversions within the Nigerian market.

The CBN also instructed IMTOs to adopt market-reflective pricing by referencing the Bloomberg BMatch system for real-time rates when dealing with customers and banks.

Authorized dealer banks will now be permitted to process foreign currency transfers from these IMTO accounts to other banks and licensed Bureau de Change operators, provided all anti-money laundering rules are followed.

Why This Change Was Introduced

This directive comes at a time when diaspora remittance inflows into Nigeria have been declining. According to CBN data, IMTO inflows dropped by 11.78% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

The apex bank believes routing transactions through formal banking channels will boost liquidity in the official foreign exchange market and reduce leakages.

For Nigerians receiving money from family and friends abroad, the new rules should eventually lead to more transparent and secure transfers, though there may be some short-term adjustments as IMTOs and banks align with the policy.

What Nigerians Should Do Now

If you regularly receive remittances, it’s advisable to:

  • Confirm with your preferred IMTO how the new rules will affect your transactions after May 1.
  • Ensure your BVN and NIN are properly linked to your bank account.
  • Monitor your transfer channels for any changes in processing time or fees.

The CBN has urged all stakeholders to prepare for full compliance by the May 1 deadline.

This latest policy is part of the apex bank’s ongoing efforts to sanitize the foreign exchange market and encourage more remittances to flow through official channels rather than the parallel market.

While the CBN works on improving remittance flows, Ghana is taking a bold step toward regional integration with visa-free entry for all Africans starting May 2026.”

Wizkid and Ayra Starr Shine at 2026 MOBO Awards, Celebrating Nigerian Talent on Global Stage

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African music stars at a glamorous awards night event with red carpet and stage lighting

Wizkid and Ayra Starr delivered another proud moment for Nigerian music at the 2026 MOBO Awards, which celebrated 30 years of Black music and culture in the UK.

Ayra Starr won the Best International Act award for the second year in a row, cementing her status as one of the brightest rising stars in global Afrobeats.

Wizkid, on the other hand, reclaimed the Best African Music Act title, seeing off strong competition from fellow Nigerians, including Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage, and Adekunle Gold.

The wins highlight the growing influence of Nigerian artists on the international scene.

Wizkid’s victory was especially sweet, as he has been a pioneer of Afrobeats’ global breakthrough, while Ayra Starr continues to impress with her unique sound and massive crossover appeal.

Niko Omilana also picked up an award, further showing the breadth of Nigerian talent being recognized at the prestigious ceremony.

The MOBO Awards, which stands for Music of Black Origin, has become an important platform for celebrating Black excellence in music, and Nigerian acts have been dominating the African categories in recent years.

Fans celebrated the double win on social media, with many describing it as a “Nigeria takeover” at the 2026 edition.

The success of Wizkid and Ayra Starr not only boosts their individual careers but also puts Afrobeats even more firmly in the spotlight worldwide.

These victories come at a time when Nigerian music continues to break records on streaming platforms and charts across Europe and America.

With more collaborations and global exposure, many believe the best is yet to come for the industry.

Congratulations to Wizkid, Ayra Starr, and all the Nigerian winners at the 2026 MOBO Awards!

Oil Price Surges to $108 per Barrel as Iran Rejects US Peace Plan

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Oil prices surge to $108 per barrel as Iran rejects the US 15-point peace plan in the Middle East conflict. Impact on Nigeria's fuel prices, inflation, and economy explained. Latest update 2026.

Crude oil prices shot up yesterday, reaching $108.3 per barrel after Iran called the United States’ proposed 15-point peace plan “one-sided” and unfair in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The 5.98% surge in oil prices reflects growing market fears that the war between Israel and Iran could drag on longer than expected.

Iranian officials described the US plan as heavily skewed in favor of the United States and Israel, saying it fails to address key concerns on their side.

This latest spike comes at a difficult time for Nigeria and many other oil-importing nations. Higher global crude prices usually translate into more expensive petrol, diesel, and cooking gas at home.

Many Nigerians are already struggling with fuel prices hovering above N1,000 per liter, and further increases could worsen the cost-of-living crisis.

Analysts say the rejection of the peace proposal by Iran has reduced hopes for a quick resolution.

As long as tensions remain high, supply concerns in the region, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, will keep pushing oil prices upward.

For Nigeria, the situation is mixed. While higher oil prices mean more revenue for the government, the country still imports most of its refined petroleum products.

This creates a painful situation where the nation earns more from crude but pays heavily for refined fuel, putting extra pressure on the naira and inflation.

The development has once again highlighted how events in the Middle East can directly affect the pockets of ordinary Nigerians.

As the conflict continues, many are watching to see whether global powers can broker a fair and lasting cease-fire or if oil prices will keep climbing.

UN Declares Transatlantic Slave Trade ‘Gravest Crime Against Humanity’ – Calls for Reparations

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On March 25, 2026, the United Nations General Assembly took a historic step by adopting a resolution that officially declares the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity.”

The resolution, strongly championed by Ghana and backed by the African Union, passed with 123 votes in favor. The United States, Israel, and Argentina were the only countries that voted against it.

This landmark vote is the strongest international statement yet on the horrors of the slave trade that forcibly took millions of Africans across the Atlantic between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Although the resolution is not legally binding, it carries significant moral weight and explicitly urges countries involved in the historical trade to consider reparations for the “historical wrongs” committed.

Many African nations and the African Union hailed the resolution as a long-overdue acknowledgment of the immense suffering and generational damage caused by centuries of enslavement.

Ghana’s leadership played a central role in pushing the agenda, describing the vote as a victory for truth, justice, and the dignity of millions of descendants of enslaved Africans.

The resolution calls on the international community to promote education about the slave trade, support memorial projects, and take concrete steps toward addressing its lasting economic and social impacts.

Supporters argue that true healing and global equity cannot happen without confronting this dark chapter of human history.

The United States, which voted against the resolution, has historically resisted formal reparations discussions at the international level.

Israel and Argentina also opposed the text, though they did not issue detailed explanations immediately after the vote.

For many Africans and people of African descent worldwide, today’s decision at the UN represents a powerful symbolic victory.

While it does not immediately translate into financial reparations, it strengthens the global conversation and puts moral pressure on former colonial powers and slave-trading nations to engage more seriously with the issue.

“This landmark resolution carries significant moral weight and explicitly urges countries involved in the historical trade to consider reparations for the “historical wrongs” committed.

It strengthens the global conversation on justice, similar to ongoing discussions around gender equality progress being painfully slow according to the UN. “

As the world reflects on this resolution, the focus now shifts to what practical steps will follow. Education, remembrance, and meaningful dialogue about reparative justice are expected to take center stage in the coming years.

Dangote Warns Iran War Could Force Nigerians to Work from Home

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Aliko Dangote reflecting on rising oil prices and remote work trends linked to Middle East tensions

Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has raised a strong alarm that the escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, could force Nigeria and other African countries to adopt work-from-home policies similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos on Monday, Dangote expressed deep concern over the potential economic fallout from rising global oil prices triggered by the Iran war.

He warned that continued instability in the region could severely disrupt Nigeria’s already fragile economy, which is heavily dependent on oil revenue.

According to Dangote, if crude oil prices keep climbing due to the conflict, many businesses may struggle with high energy and transportation costs.

In such a scenario, companies could be compelled to reduce physical operations and shift staff to remote work to cut down expenses.

He noted that African economies, already burdened by high debt levels, are particularly vulnerable to these external shocks.

The business mogul emphasized that Nigeria must prepare for all possible outcomes. “We cannot afford to be caught off guard,” he said, urging the government to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on imported fuel and other commodities.

This warning comes at a time when petrol prices in Nigeria have already crossed N1,000 per liter in many areas, partly due to the same Middle East tensions.

Many Nigerians are already feeling the pinch, with higher transport fares and rising costs of goods.

Dangote’s comments have sparked fresh discussions about the need for stronger economic buffers and alternative working models in the face of global uncertainties.

While work-from-home helped many businesses survive the pandemic, its long-term feasibility in Nigeria’s context with challenges like unstable power supply and poor internet infrastructure remains a major concern.

As the Iran situation continues to unfold, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how it affects daily life and the broader economy.

The conflict continues to drive oil prices higher, while Iran has now threatened major US tech firms, including Google, Apple, and Meta.

UK to Deport 2,000 Nigerians Under New Migration Deal with Nigeria

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The United Kingdom and Nigeria have signed a fresh migration agreement that could see up to 2,000 Nigerians deported in the coming months.

The deal focuses on failed asylum seekers, visa overstayers, and convicted offenders, marking a major step in bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Under the new pact, the UK will fast-track the return of Nigerians who do not qualify for asylum or have breached immigration rules.

Nigerian authorities have agreed to issue travel documents more quickly and accept the return of their citizens, including those convicted of crimes in Britain.

This is part of the UK’s wider push to reduce irregular migration and clear backlog cases.

Many of those facing deportation have lived in the UK for years. Some arrived as asylum seekers but had their claims rejected, while others overstayed visas or committed offenses.

The agreement includes safeguards to ensure returns are done humanely and in line with international law.

Why This Deal Matters Now

The UK has been under huge pressure to cut immigration numbers. With thousands of Nigerians currently in the asylum system or living without legal status, this new arrangement gives British authorities a clearer pathway for removals.

For Nigeria, it strengthens diplomatic ties and opens the door for more cooperation in other areas like trade and security.

Nigerian officials say they will work closely with the UK to verify identities and ensure smooth reintegration for those returning.

The government has also promised to support returnees with skills training and job placement programmes to help them settle back home.

This is not the first time the two countries have worked on migration issues, but the scale of the current deal — potentially affecting 2,000 people — makes it one of the most significant in recent years.

Both sides describe it as a “win-win” that respects the rule of law while addressing long-standing challenges.

The development comes at a time when many Nigerians in the UK are anxiously waiting to hear their fate. For those affected, the coming months could bring major life changes.

The agreement comes amid economic pressures in Nigeria, including petrol prices hitting over N1,000 per liter and rising public debt to N153.29 trillion.“

Tinubu Meets UK PM Starmer to Seal £746m Nigeria Port Deal

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President Tinubu and UK PM Keir Starmer witness £746m Nigeria-UK port deal signing in London

President Bola Tinubu held a high-level meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London today.

Both leaders witnessed the signing of a major £746 million infrastructure agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The deal focuses on modernizing and expanding two of Nigeria’s busiest seaports Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port.

The funds will finance extensive refurbishment, new cargo-handling equipment, deeper berths, improved road access, and digital systems that will increase capacity and cut turnaround times for vessels.

UK Export Finance and private British investors are providing the financing package, while the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and private terminal operators will implement the project.

Officials say the upgraded facilities should boost annual throughput by at least 40%, attract more container lines, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as West Africa’s leading maritime gateway.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu described the partnership as “a new chapter in Nigeria-UK relations” and emphasized that efficient ports are essential for lowering the cost of imports and exports, fighting inflation, and supporting the manufacturing sector.

Prime Minister Starmer called the agreement “a win-win for both nations” and highlighted the UK’s commitment to long-term investment in African infrastructure.

The signing comes at a time when Nigeria is aggressively pursuing port reforms to reduce reliance on road transport, decongest Apapa roads, and compete more effectively with neighboring ports in Ghana, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Many analysts view the deal as one of the most significant foreign direct investments in Nigeria’s maritime sector in recent years.

If executed on schedule, the upgraded Lagos and Tin Can Island ports could start delivering measurable improvements to trade efficiency within 18–24 months.

For ordinary Nigerians the ultimate benefit should be cheaper goods on supermarket shelves and stronger export opportunities for local manufacturers.

The government hopes the project will also help narrow the infrastructure funding gap and demonstrate that large-scale PPPs can deliver tangible results.

FG Introduces the “Fly Now, Pay Later” Credit Plan for Nigerian Domestic Travel

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Nigerian airport terminal with aircraft and digital fly now pay later flight booking interface on smartphone

The federal government has rolled out a new consumer credit product called “Fly Now, Pay Later” that lets Nigerians book and travel on domestic flights immediately while spreading the cost over several months.

Announced in early March 2026, the scheme is designed to make air travel more affordable and accessible to the middle and working class — groups that have been priced out of flying in recent years due to high ticket costs and economic pressure.

The initiative is being implemented through a partnership between the Ministry of Aviation and selected financial institutions under the Central Bank of Nigeria’s consumer credit framework.

Eligible passengers can now purchase tickets from participating airlines and repay in installments of 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the lender’s terms.

Interest rates are expected to be competitive, though exact figures will vary by bank and credit score.

Who Can Benefit and How It Works

To qualify, travelers need a good credit history and a valid BVN and must meet the minimum requirements set by the partnering banks.

The scheme is currently limited to domestic routes only — Lagos–Abuja, Lagos–Port Harcourt, Abuja–Kano, Enugu–Lagos, and similar high-traffic corridors.

Airlines that have already signed on include Air Peace, Ibom Air, and United Nigeria Airlines, with more carriers expected to join in the coming weeks.

The idea is simple: instead of paying ₦80,000–₦150,000 upfront for a round-trip ticket, a passenger can pay a small down payment (usually 20–30%) and cover the rest in monthly installments.

For many families, students, and business travelers who need to move around frequently, this could be a game-changer.

Why the Government Is Pushing This Now

Domestic air travel in Nigeria has remained out of reach for millions despite the country having one of the busiest airspaces in West Africa.

Rising jet fuel prices, naira depreciation, and airline operational costs have kept fares high even after the removal of the old subsidy structure.

The “Fly Now, Pay Later” scheme is part of the broader Renewed Hope agenda to improve affordability in key sectors.

Government officials say it will stimulate tourism, boost business travel, and help regional airlines increase load factors — all of which should eventually help bring fares down through competition and higher passenger volumes.

Early Reactions and Things to Watch

Initial feedback from social media has been mostly positive, with many Nigerians saying “finally, something practical.” Travel agents and fintech platforms are already promoting the product, and some banks are offering pre-approval checks directly inside their mobile apps.

However, there are a few concerns worth noting:

  • Will the interest rates stay reasonable or become another form of debt trap?
  • How strict will credit checks be for first-time users?
  • What happens if someone defaults—will their BVN get flagged or blacklisted?

These are valid questions, and the Central Bank and Ministry of Aviation have promised close monitoring to prevent abuse.

For now, the scheme looks like a welcome relief for people who need to fly regularly but have been forced to endure long, tiring road journeys.

If it is implemented transparently and the repayment terms remain fair, “Fly Now, Pay Later” could become one of the most used credit products in Nigeria’s aviation space this year.

Have you tried any “buy now, pay later” service before? Would you use this one for domestic flights? Share your thoughts below.

Several explosions strike Maiduguri, including the Monday Market and the Teaching Hospital.

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Tension gripped Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Monday evening as a series of explosions rocked different parts of the city.

One blast occurred right at the entrance gate of the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, while other explosions were reported near the popular Monday Market and surrounding areas.

The attacks happened around 7pm, right in the middle of iftar—the evening meal that breaks the Ramadan fast—catching many people off guard during a time meant for prayer and family.

A video circulating online shows security personnel using torchlights to inspect a suspicious vehicle parked at the hospital gate.

In the background, a voice speaking Hausa can be heard saying, “A bomb has exploded at the security checkpoint.”

The footage also captures a lifeless body lying beside the car, highlighting the immediate human cost of the incident.

As of now, the exact number of casualties is still unclear. Security and emergency teams are on the ground assessing the situation, but reports suggest several people may have been affected.

This is a developing story, and more details are expected as investigations continue.

The explosions have caused widespread panic across Maiduguri. Residents are being advised to stay indoors and avoid crowded areas while security agencies work to secure the city and determine what exactly happened.

The timing during Ramadan has added an extra layer of shock, as many families were gathered for iftar when the blasts occurred.

This incident comes at a time when Borno State has been working hard to restore normalcy after years of insurgency.

“Similar to recent NAF airstrikes that killed top ISWAP commanders in Sambisa Forest, security forces are working to restore calm in Maiduguri.”

The people of Maiduguri have endured a lot, and many are hoping for quick answers and stronger security measures to prevent such attacks in the future.

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the cause or responsibility, but the situation is being closely monitored. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

Repeated incidents like the Maiduguri explosions have led prominent voices such as Peter Obi to warn that the US evacuation shows fading confidence in Nigeria’s security.