Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines for Friday, 18th April, 2025 | StartSmart Nigeria

Nigerian Newspaper Headlines Today, April 18, 2025. Good morning, Nigeria! Welcome to StartSmart Nigeria’s roundup of today’s top newspaper headlines. Get updated on the latest news, politics, sports, and entertainment stories making waves across the country.

1. Presidency Responds to Calls for Tinubu’s Return Amid Security Concerns in Northern Nigeria

The presidency has addressed concerns from Nigerians requesting the return of President Bola Tinubu due to the escalating insecurity in the northern region. Despite his absence, the presidency assures that Tinubu remains engaged with governance from France. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that Tinubu’s return to Nigeria is scheduled after the Easter holiday, with ongoing communication with key officials to tackle national security challenges.

2. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Confirms Attack on Family Residence, Blames Akpabio

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has confirmed that gunmen attacked her family’s residence in Obeiba-Ihima. The lawmaker blamed Senate President Godswill Akpabio, linking the attack to her outspoken stance against him. The assault has sparked widespread condemnation across the country.

3. National Assembly Faces Financial Strain, Speaker Abbas Reveals

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has publicly stated that the National Assembly is severely underfunded. During the unveiling of three legislative digital platforms, Abbas emphasized the financial constraints facing the legislature and called for better funding to support its functions and responsibilities.

4. Tinubu’s Ambassadorial List Delayed; More Political Appointees Than Career Diplomats, Says Tuggar

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, provided an update on the delay in appointing ambassadors, revealing that the submitted list contains more political appointees than career diplomats. While the list was submitted over a year ago, President Tinubu’s focus on urgent economic reforms has delayed the appointments. However, Tuggar assured that the ambassadorial appointments would be finalized soon.

5. Over 80 Million Nigerians Still Facing Power Supply Issues – Minister Adelabu

Minister of Power, Adedayo Adelabu, disclosed that while 150 million Nigerians enjoy sufficient electricity, 80 million Nigerians still face unreliable power supply. This issue, he stated, is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to address the power crisis, with initiatives like the “Mission 300” aiming to provide electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030.

6. Lagos Court Acquits Young Boy Who Stood Before Peter Obi’s Convoy in Viral Photo

In a significant legal victory, Alabi Quadri, the young Nigerian who famously stood in front of Peter Obi’s campaign convoy, has been acquitted by the Apapa Magistrate Court. Quadri, who became a symbol of courage during the 2023 general elections, was cleared of all charges after spending months in prison. This ruling has garnered praise from human rights groups.

7. Manchester United Edge Past Lyon to Reach Europa League Semis

Manchester United survived a dramatic encounter against Lyon to secure their spot in the 2024-2025 UEFA Europa League semi-finals. The second leg ended 5-4 in favor of United, culminating in a thrilling 7-6 aggregate win, with Harry Maguire scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.

8. Flying Eagles of Nigeria Announce Squad for Under-20 AFCON

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria, under Coach Aliyu Zubairu, have announced their 24-man squad for the upcoming Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With a blend of local and international talents, the team is determined to secure an eighth continental title when the tournament begins in Egypt.

9. Iyabo Ojo and Ex-Husband Reunite for Daughter’s Traditional Wedding

In a heartwarming display of unity, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo and her ex-husband, Ademidun Ojo, reunited to celebrate their daughter Priscilla’s traditional wedding to Tanzanian singer Juma Jux. The couple put aside their differences and honored Yoruba customs during the celebration, which was attended by several Nigerian celebrities.

10. Angela Okorie Vows to Keep Future Relationships Private Following Breakup

Nollywood actress Angela Okorie has vowed to keep her future relationships private after her recent breakup with her boyfriend, accusing him of infidelity. In a candid post on Instagram, Okorie shared her disappointment and declared that she would no longer showcase her romantic life on social media until marriage.

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