Top News In Nigeria This Morning – Wednesday, April 15, 2026

It is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Here is a concise roundup of the top stories making headlines across Nigeria this morning.

Controversy over Jilli Market Airstrikes: The Presidency has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of “playing politics” with national security. This follows Atiku’s condemnation of recent military airstrikes in Borno State, which he alleged targeted civilians.
Borno Governor Backs Military: Governor Babagana Zulum clarified that the Jilli market was officially closed five years ago and had become a “notorious hub” for insurgents. Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, reiterated a “new strategy” targeting anyone providing logistics to terrorists.
Terrorist Incursion: Reports indicate Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists launched a midnight attack on Benishiekh town along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road, targeting a military base.

IMF Downgrades Growth: The International Monetary Fund has lowered Nigeria’s 2026 growth forecast to 4.1%, citing high fuel and fertilizer prices, as well as increased shipping costs.
No Return to Subsidies: Finance Minister Wale Edun, speaking at the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings, warned that Nigeria cannot afford a return to fuel subsidies despite global shocks, noting that debt servicing costs are currently “choking” developing economies.
FinTech Milestone: Flutterwave has officially secured a banking license from the Central Bank of Nigeria, signaling a major shift in the country’s digital financial landscape.

Atiku’s “Bleak Picture”: Speaking at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) convention, Atiku Abubakar claimed the country’s economy, security, and infrastructure have “collapsed,” calling for a “genuine realignment” of opposition forces ahead of 2027.
Gag Order for El-Rufai: A court has granted N200 million bail to former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai in his ongoing graft trial but imposed a gag order, restraining him from making public statements regarding the case.
2027 Posturing: In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has reportedly named Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (popularly known as Yayi) as the APC consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial race.

Aviation Crisis: Local airfares have spiked significantly, with some routes jumping from ₦92,000 to ₦135,000 due to a jet fuel crisis linked to ongoing Middle East tensions.
Oil Production: Nigeria continues to struggle with its OPEC quota, with recent data showing production sitting at 1.38 million barrels per day (bpd), missing the national target.

JAMB Readiness: The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has finalized preparations for the 2026 UTME, with 2.2 million candidates set to begin exams nationwide. Police have announced extra security deployments at all exam centers.
Health Alert: The NDLEA has raised an alarm over a sharp rise in cannabis use, estimated at 10.6 million users nationwide, linking the trend to increased mental health challenges and social instability.

Official (NAFEM): The Naira remains relatively stable this morning as market participants await fresh Central Bank interventions.
Parallel Market: Volatility continues as traders react to the IMF’s downgraded growth outlook.