It is Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Today marks a significant deadline in Nigerian politics and banking, alongside major breakthroughs in the education and trade sectors.
Here are the top stories making headlines across the nation this morning:
Politics & Governance
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Cabinet Resignations: The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has officially resigned to pursue his 2027 governorship ambition in Bauchi State. This comes as today is the final deadline set by President Bola Tinubu for all political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to step down. More high-profile exits from the federal cabinet are expected by the close of business.
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Political Realignment: In a major shift for the 2027 race, Rabiu Kwankwaso has dumped the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move has triggered fresh talks of a potential “mega-alliance” involving Peter Obi.
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PDP Crisis: A Federal High Court in Abuja has barred a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki from accessing the party’s national secretariat, further deepening the internal leadership rift.
Education & Economy
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End of ASUU Strikes: The Federal Government has declared the era of university strikes “permanently over.” The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, confirmed that the FG/ASUU 2025 agreement—which includes a 40% salary increase—has been fully implemented.
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China Trade Deal: Effective May 1, 2026, China will implement a zero-tariff policy on all Nigerian exports. This landmark economic partnership is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s non-oil revenue.
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Banking & Naira: Today is the final deadline for the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) bank recapitalization exercise. Meanwhile, the Naira remains relatively stable, trading at approximately ₦1,385 in the official market and ₦1,410 in the parallel market.
Security Updates
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Plateau Killings: The death toll from Sunday’s brutal attack on the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North has risen to 27. Security agencies are under pressure to improve intelligence gathering in the region.
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Kaduna Abductions: Gunmen invaded a wedding ceremony in Kahir village, Kaduna State, killing 13 people and abducting 28 others.
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Military Success: The Nigerian Army reports a “month of resilience,” successfully repelling multiple insurgent attacks and securing key Forward Operating Bases in Borno and Yobe states.
Energy & Infrastructure
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Fuel Supply: Five vessels carrying petrol and diesel have berthed at Lagos ports. However, experts warn that the ongoing Middle East conflict is putting upward pressure on global energy prices, which may affect local pump prices in the coming weeks.
“Our words are our bond. Your students will remain in school. Strikes have been cured in eternity.” — Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa
