Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines for Saturday, October 18, 2025
Good morning, Nigeria! As the nation navigates economic pressures, political maneuvers, and infrastructural tweaks ahead of key events like the planned October 20 protests, today’s front pages from major dailies like Punch, Vanguard, The Guardian, ThisDay, and others spotlight a mix of governance reforms, security alerts, and sectoral advancements. Here’s a curated roundup of the most prominent headlines, grouped by category for easy scanning. These reflect the pulse of the day, drawn from leading outlets.
Politics & Governance
- Nigeria Sliding into Anarchy, Warns Businessman: MD of AK-Jodem Nigeria Limited, John Akano, cautions against autocratic drifts amid rising unrest, urging urgent reforms.
- Obidient Movement Warns Against Anambra Poll Rigging: Peter Obi loyalists vow to resist any foul play in the November 8 governorship election, demanding transparency.
- Wike Defends Abuja Duplex Demolitions: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike insists on strict land enforcement, vowing no reversals despite backlash over 11 razed structures.
- Igbo Youths Endorse October 20 Nnamdi Kanu Protest: Groups across Nigeria rally for IPOB leader’s unconditional release, promising peaceful demonstrations.
- Trump Adviser Dismisses Religious Persecution Claims in Nigeria: U.S. official lauds Tinubu administration’s efforts in tackling faith-based tensions during a key address.
Economy & Business
- Shettima: Nigeria Poised to Lead Africa’s Economic Revolution: VP rallies governors on Afreximbank-backed subnational investments, highlighting global roadshows.
- Dangote Reveals 22 Sabotage Attempts Behind Reorg: VP Oil & Gas Devakumar Edwin cites threats as catalyst for internal shake-up to safeguard operations.
- MTN Chairman Urges FG Telecom Investment Priority: Dr. Ernest Ndukwe stresses sector’s role in trade and inclusion at Nigerian Economic Summit.
- House Pushes Electricity Act Amendments: Bill seeks to divest NERC and REA for rural electrification boost amid power woes.
- $1.2bn Needed for Gender Equality in Five Years – Minister: Women Affairs’ Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim calls for funding to close gaps in empowerment programs.
Education & Society
- Commendable Return of History in Basic Schools: Educators hail curriculum revival as key to cultural preservation and youth identity.
- ASUU Declares Two-Week Warning Strike: Union accuses FG of stalling demands, threatening broader action despite intervention efforts.
- Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA Launches Feeding Program for 5,000 Pupils: Lagos initiative targets public primaries to combat malnutrition and boost attendance.
- Nigeria Can’t Undermine AI’s Transformative Potential – Minister: Bosun Tijani warns against regulatory overreach in tech, eyeing communication sector growth.
Metro & Other News
- NAF Shuts Lagos Airport Road for Routine Exercise: Logistics Command announces full closure Saturday for 10km walk/jog, advising motorists.
- Olukoyede’s Two Years: EFCC’s Efficiency Era: Chairman’s leadership hailed for reforms, with re-election as NACIWA President.
- Kyari, World Bank to Headline Guardian’s Green Gold Summit: Mele Kyari and others set to discuss agro-sustainability at upcoming event.
- Nigeria’s Silent Crisis: Hunger and Poverty Yet to ‘Defect’ – Makinde: Oyo Governor laments persistent woes despite political shifts.
Sports
- Osimhen’s Market Value Dips, But Tops Nigeria’s Valuables: Galatasaray striker holds No. 1 spot despite recent drop, eyes recovery.
These stories dominate the discourse, from economic optimism under Shettima to security jitters ahead of protests. For deeper dives, check the dailies’ sites—Punch leads on anti-corruption, while ThisDay focuses on international angles. What’s catching your eye today? Stay informed and safe!