Discover the latest stories and insights from latest news across Africa
Nigeria’s central bank is introducing new rules around the Bank Verification Number (BVN), a move that could change how millions of people use digital banking services. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says the measures, set to take effect from May 1, are aimed at strengthening security, reducing fraud and improving control over the country’s financial system.
South African Opposition Leader Julius Malema Sentenced to Five Years Over Firearm Offences Johannesburg, South Africa — South African opposition leader Julius Malema has been sentenced to five years in prison after being convicted on multiple firearm-related charges stemming from a 2018 political rally incident. A court found Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as discharging a firearm in public. The charges relate to an event in 2018 where he was filmed firing what appeared to be a rifle during a rally.
Authorities in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, have announced the arrival of a new set of trains aimed at strengthening the city’s growing rail network. The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed that 24-car train sets have been received to support operations on the Lagos Red Line. The development is expected to increase passenger capacity, reduce waiting times, and ease daily commuting for millions of residents in the densely populated city.
Nigeria’s central bank is introducing new rules around the Bank Verification Number (BVN), a move that could change how millions of people use digital banking services. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says the measures, set to take effect from May 1, are aimed at strengthening security, reducing fraud and improving control over the country’s financial system.
South African Opposition Leader Julius Malema Sentenced to Five Years Over Firearm Offences Johannesburg, South Africa — South African opposition leader Julius Malema has been sentenced to five years in prison after being convicted on multiple firearm-related charges stemming from a 2018 political rally incident. A court found Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as discharging a firearm in public. The charges relate to an event in 2018 where he was filmed firing what appeared to be a rifle during a rally.
Authorities in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, have announced the arrival of a new set of trains aimed at strengthening the city’s growing rail network. The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed that 24-car train sets have been received to support operations on the Lagos Red Line. The development is expected to increase passenger capacity, reduce waiting times, and ease daily commuting for millions of residents in the densely populated city.
Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taken a firm stance on ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, declaring that the June deadline for completion is “non-negotiable”. But beyond the warning to contractors, the decision is raising a bigger question: why the urgency? The timeline is closely tied to events marking the anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, a period when governments typically highlight achievements and showcase completed projects.
highlighting the global recognition of Fela Kuti’s enduring influence, focusing on the prestigious award that celebrates his revolutionary impact on music, culture, and activism. It underscores how his legacy continues to shape conversations around artistic resistance and social justice, affirming his place as a timeless icon whose voice still resonates across generations.
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has said that his planned participation in the 2027 presidential election will mark the end of his long-standing ambition to lead the country. Atiku made the statement while speaking on his future political plans, suggesting that if he contests in 2027, it would be his final attempt at the presidency
The Nigeria’s government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is seeking support from international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, as economic pressure continues to build in the nation. The move comes at a time when many Nigerians are already feeling the weight of rising prices. From food to transportation, everyday costs have increased, leaving households and small businesses struggling to keep up. While the government has introduced reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, the effects have been difficult for many citizens.
The National Assembly of Nigeria is facing increasing pressure to accelerate critical reforms as public concern grows over insecurity, governance challenges and the state of the economy. In recent weeks, calls from political stakeholders, civil society organisations and policy analysts have intensified, urging lawmakers to prioritise key legislative actions, particularly in areas such as state policing, electoral reform and fiscal restructuring. These issues are widely seen as central to addressing Nigeria’s evolving security and governance challenges.
Uncertainty is mounting within Nigeria’s opposition political space as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) await a crucial ruling from the Supreme Court. The anticipated judgment is expected to have significant implications for the internal structure, leadership disputes and overall direction of both parties. Political observers say the outcome could reshape opposition dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nigeria is experiencing a sharp increase in fuel prices, with the cost of petrol rising from around ₦750 per litre in recent weeks to as high as ₦1,000–₦1,300 per litre in some parts of the country. The surge has intensified economic pressure on citizens, leading to higher transportation fares, increased food prices and growing concern among households already struggling with the rising cost of living.
Explore the intersection of innovation and transparency as TalkAfricaNG dives into Nigeria’s landmark $470 million AI surveillance investment, a move that positions the nation as Africa’s premier "Smart City" frontrunner. While this world-class blueprint promises a tech-enabled security revolution, we examine the essential roadmap and local partnerships needed to move these ambitious digital tools from the boardroom directly to our city streets. By bridging the gap between high-level financial commitments and visible infrastructure, Nigeria is not just buying cameras but building a sustainable "Digital Watchtower" that fosters long-term trust and safety for every citizen.
World TB Day 2026, themed “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by countries. Powered by people”, highlights the urgent need to end tuberculosis, a disease that remains a major global health threat. TB can be latent or active, pulmonary or extrapulmonary, and drug-resistant forms make treatment more complex. Ending TB requires strong government leadership, community participation, early detection, and public awareness, emphasizing that collective action can make its eradication achievable