Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines Today – April 22, 2025 | StartSmart Nigeria

Nigerian Newspaper Headlines Today. Good morning, Nigeria! Welcome to StartSmart Nigeria’s roundup of the top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Stay informed with the latest developments in politics, security, religion, and entertainment across the country.

1. President Tinubu Returns to Abuja from France and London

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja following a private visit to France and the United Kingdom. His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the President’s return via his official 𝕏 handle.

Despite rising concerns over insecurity during his absence, Tinubu reportedly stayed in constant communication with top officials and security chiefs, overseeing national matters from abroad.

2. APC May Grant Tinubu Automatic Ticket for 2027 Election

Reports indicate that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is considering offering President Tinubu an automatic ticket for the 2027 presidential election. Sources at the APC secretariat revealed he may be granted the “first right of refusal” due to his incumbency.

The final decision rests with the APC’s National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.

3. Pope Francis Dies at 88

In a major global development, Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican. The Vatican confirmed the news via an official statement on Monday, April 21, 2025.

The Pope had met briefly with U.S. Vice President James David Vance on Easter Sunday, just one day before his passing.

4. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Criticizes Tinubu’s Advise

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has described Bayo Onanuga’s reaction to his viral video as “lazy” and “disappointing.” In the video, Baba-Ahmed criticized worsening insecurity in Northern Nigeria and warned that the region may soon voice its dissatisfaction with the current administration.

5. Atiku Slammed Over Insecurity Comment

Josef Onoh, a former campaign spokesman for Tinubu, accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of playing politics with the lives of terrorism victims. Onoh’s remarks came in response to Atiku’s criticism of the government’s handling of the Benue killings.

Onoh argued that Atiku’s reactions were self-serving and lacked constructive solutions.

6. ₦10 Million Raised for Teen Wrongfully Arrested in Lagos

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong announced that over ₦10 million has been raised for Quadri Alabi, a 17-year-old allegedly wrongfully arrested by police in Lagos. Alabi’s case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues of police misconduct.

7. Governor Namadi Rejects Call for Self-Defense Against Bandits

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, opposed former Defense Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma’s call for citizens to defend themselves against bandits. Namadi cautioned that such actions could lead to anarchy and insisted on legal and peaceful alternatives.

8. Spyro Says Gospel Artists Are Also in Music for Money

Popular Nigerian singer Spyro stated that many gospel artists are in the industry primarily to make money, just like secular artists. He praised singer Tems as a role model for young female musicians, citing her decency and success.

9. Joke Silva Reveals Why Her Father Opposed Her Marriage to Olu Jacobs

Veteran actress Joke Silva revealed that her father initially opposed her marriage to Olu Jacobs due to their 19-year age gap. Despite the opposition, her mother supported the relationship, and the couple later married.

10. PSG Coach Luis Enrique Highlights Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength

Ahead of their Champions League semi-final clash, PSG manager Luis Enrique identified Arsenal’s set-piece tactics as a key threat. Despite this, he confirmed PSG will prepare as usual without a special strategy.

11. Xabi Alonso Cleared to Join Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso has reportedly been cleared to leave Bayer Leverkusen to join Real Madrid, one of his former clubs. The move adds to the speculation around Carlo Ancelotti’s future at the Spanish club.

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That wraps up today’s Nigerian newspaper headlines. Be sure to check back with StartSmart Nigeria daily for timely and reliable updates on politics, economy, entertainment, and global affairs.