Front pages of Nigerian newspapers are dominated by a variety of pressing national issues, ranging from political controversies to security challenges and economic developments. A central topic of discussion is the newly signed Electoral Act 2026, which has drawn significant criticism from civil society organizations. The Kukah Centre, Yiaga Africa, and other civil society groups on Thursday voiced their concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the act, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with its provisions.

In economic news, President Bola Tinubu’s recent executive order directing oil and gas revenues into the federation account is projected to bring about N14.57 trillion in additional revenue allocations for federal, state, and local governments. However, this order has been met with contention, as oil workers under the auspices of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have publicly faulted the directive, raising questions about its implications.

Political tensions are also escalating in various regions. In Ondo state, a perceived supremacy battle between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reportedly ignited violence within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ranks. Meanwhile, in Rivers state, the house of assembly has taken a decisive step by halting impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, a development that likely brings a temporary calm to the state's political landscape.

Security remains a critical concern, particularly in Kebbi state, where Lakurawa terrorists launched a series of devastating attacks. On Wednesday, the terrorists invaded several communities in Arewa Local Government Area, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 33 residents. Kebbi police spokesperson, Bashir Usman, confirmed on Thursday that the insurgents, believed to have crossed into the district from Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State, aimed to rustle cattle. During the attacks, residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago mobilized to confront the assailants, leading to the fatal clashes. The Command expressed deep regret over the loss of innocent lives, extending heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the entire Arewa community, while also emphasizing the need for coordinated security intervention and urging the public to report suspicious movements through established security channels rather than engaging directly, as such confrontations pose grave risks. Security operatives have since been mobilized to the affected communities. This incident echoes previous security challenges in the area, such as the killing of six vigilance group members by bandits in March 2025 during a cattle rustling incident in Dan Tulu and Rusakde villages, also in Arewa LGA.

Further developments include the ongoing detention of Nasir el-Rufai by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), where he has spent his second night amidst investigations. This situation has also drawn attention to a social media controversy, with Kadijah, the wife of missing social media influencer Idris Abubakar (Dadiyata), expressing sadness over Bashir, son of el-Rufai, allegedly mocking her husband's disappearance.

Budgetary concerns are also in the spotlight, with the Senate expressing significant worry over the federal government’s poor budget implementation, citing low or zero releases to ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) for crucial capital projects. Despite these concerns, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has assured that the N58.472 trillion 2026 appropriation bill, in terms of its size and underlying assumptions, remains within safe limits. Lastly, the House of Representatives is poised to vote on proposed amendments to the 1999 constitution, a move that could significantly shape Nigeria's legal and political framework. Beyond national borders, The Guardian highlights a broader continental trend, examining how old African leaders are solidifying their power across Africa.