Top News In Nigeria This Morning – Friday, April 24, 2026

Here is a roundup of the top stories making headlines across Nigeria this Friday morning, April 24, 2026.

Tinubu Leaves Lawmakers’ Fate to Governors: President Bola Tinubu has reportedly rejected requests from National Assembly leaders for automatic return tickets for 2027. The President insisted that the decision rests with state governors, signaling a “hands-off” approach to internal party ticketing.
Senator Ibrahim Lamido Dumps APC for ADC: Citing the “deepening insecurity” and persistent banditry in Sokoto East, Senator Ibrahim Lamido has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He stated that his move reflects the “collective will of his constituents who are grappling with worsening insecurity.”
Governor Otti Warns on Voter Apathy: Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has raised the alarm over declining voter turnout, which he says dropped to less than 30% in 2023. He warned that “just about three of us out of 10 decide who governs us,” threatening the quality of national governance.
Birthday Cheers for Governor Umo Eno: President Tinubu has congratulated Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, on his birthday today, describing him as a “diligent apostle of people-focused leadership.”

CBN Hikes ATM Card Fees: The Central Bank of Nigeria has reportedly increased the issuance fee for ATM cards by 50%, moving the cost from ₦1,000 to ₦1,500.
Atiku Slams $516m Road Loan: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the Federal Government’s plan to take a $516 million loan for the Sokoto-Badagry highway, warning against “reckless borrowing” that could sink the nation deeper into debt.
Minister Oyedele Shifts Focus to Investment: Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele announced that the government is moving from stabilization to sustainable growth. He noted that “Nothing undermines confidence more than policy inconsistency,” emphasizing the need for a predictable business environment.

Tragedy at OAU: The Obafemi Awolowo University community is in mourning after a 400-level medical student reportedly slumped and died on campus.
Elephant Killings in Oyo: Residents of a community in Oyo State are on edge after a stray elephant reportedly invaded the area, killing one person.
Nasir El-Rufai Pleads Not Guilty: Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has pleaded not guilty to fresh charges involving alleged wiretapping.
Vigilante Killing in Benue: Outrage has followed the reported death of a serving NYSC member, Ben Agir, who was allegedly beaten to death by local vigilantes in the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.

Asake Announces New Album: Afrobeats star Asake has revealed that his fourth studio album, titled M$NEY, will be released on May 1, 2026.
Davido’s New Role Sparks Debate: Mixed reactions continue to trail the appointment of Davido as a youth mobilizer for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election campaign in Osun State.