1. Nigeria condemns Benin coup attempt, deploys jets and troops in show of regional solidarity
Nigeria moved quickly after the attempted coup against Benin’s President Patrice Talon on December 7. Air Force jets were deployed near Cotonou, and ground troops reinforced the Idiroko corridor as ECOWAS partners aligned to prevent further instability. The attack, launched at dawn by armed men who breached Talon’s residence before being repelled by loyalists, drew a firm statement from Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar affirming Nigeria’s support for Benin’s elected leadership.
Border communities from Seme to Badagry felt the ripple effect as patrols intensified through the night. Traders closed early, transport operators paused interstate trips, and local chiefs held quick security meetings to manage fears of spillover activity. By late evening, residents reported seeing Nigerian aircraft return to Lagos bases as the situation in Cotonou gradually stabilised under regional watch.
2. Federal government terminates Raycon contract on Calabar–Itu highway, hands project to Hitech
The Federal Ministry of Works announced on December 7 that it had revoked Raycon’s contract for the Calabar–Itu highway, citing slow progress and repeated execution lapses. The 50-kilometre stretch has been reassigned to Hitech Construction with an order to resume work immediately and meet new timelines backed by phased funding. Minister David Umahi said the government expects the new contractor to deliver a reliable route that supports movement between Akwa Ibom and Cross River.
Commuters navigating the corridor welcomed the development after years of delays marked by deep craters, heavy flooding and stalled repairs. Drivers in Itu and Odukpani described daily losses from fuel wastage and breakdowns, while residents viewed Hitech’s mobilisation as a chance for cleaner travel, stable transport costs and more consistent access to markets. The ministry said local labour will be absorbed once full operations restart.
3. Ndume criticises Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominations, raises concerns over merit
Senate Chief Whip Ali Ndume criticised President Tinubu’s latest ambassadorial nominations on December 7, arguing that several nominees reflected political considerations rather than professional expertise. He warned that overlooking career diplomats at a time when key postings remain vacant could affect Nigeria’s representation in global forums and weaken confidence among international partners.
His comments echoed across the National Assembly, where lawmakers debated the balance between experience and political appointments before the screening phase. Diplomatic staff in Abuja reacted with concern as nomination lists circulated through the ministries, with some officers saying prolonged vacancies had already slowed policy coordination with host countries. The Senate is expected to subject the nominees to a more rigorous review before confirmation.
4. Oyo police confirm abduction of JCI Ibadan Elite president, launch manhunt
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed on December 7 that Mrs Yetunde Ayandokun, president of JCI Ibadan Elite, was abducted from her home in Ibadan during an evening attack by gunmen. Commissioner Adekunle Adeyemi said the incident triggered a coordinated operation involving tactical units and local vigilante groups, with early searches stretching through the city’s outskirts.
Members of the JCI community gathered overnight as news of the abduction spread, describing Ayandokun as a committed youth development advocate. Security patrols increased around Bodija, Akobo and adjoining estates, while residents were urged to provide information that could aid investigators. Police reaffirmed that no ransom discussions would be entertained as the search intensified.
5. Shola Allyson opens up on artistic direction and unconventional marriage structure
Singer Shola Allyson shared new details about her personal and creative journey during a December 7 interview linked to her latest album release. She said she no longer sees herself strictly within gospel categorisation and prefers to make music that speaks to broader audiences without relying on overt religious framing. She also disclosed that her marriage has thrived through an unconventional arrangement where she and her husband do not live together full time.
Her remarks drew wide conversation online as fans reacted to her approach to art, family and personal identity. Many listeners tuned into late-night radio segments replaying the interview, while others discussed how her openness reflected the changing expectations placed on public figures. The album rollout continued as she promoted her message of authenticity across digital platforms.
6. CPPE warns of delayed MTEF approval as lawmakers debate Tinubu’s 2026–2028 framework
The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise raised concerns on December 7 over delays in passing the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework for 2026 to 2028. According to the organisation, prolonged uncertainty around revenue assumptions, debt targets and oil benchmarks could affect fiscal planning and unsettle private-sector investment decisions. The document has faced slower progress in the National Assembly due to amendment debates.
Traders and manufacturers monitoring the process said they were already adjusting plans due to fluctuating projections and anticipated policy adjustments tied to the framework. Some exporters in Kano and Aba described how stalled decisions complicate budgeting and expansion timelines. Lawmakers signalled that deliberations may be concluded before the week ends as committees push to finalise outstanding issues.
