Nigeria: Security ops boost, Eko Bridge safe, Naira fluctuates
Nigerian troops with US Africa Command killed 175 ISIS terrorists in Northeast Nigeria during joint counterterrorism operations that began a few days ago. The Defense Headquarters reports "significant successes" against ISIS and ISWAP elements in the region.
Good news for Lagos commuters: Federal Government confirms Eko Bridge will NOT close as previously planned after Minister of Works Dave Umahi inspected the structure.
Naira movements show mixed signals: Appreciated to ₦1,385/$ in parallel market (from ₦1,395) but depreciated to ₦1,373.65/$ in official Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market. This creates arbitrage opportunities for forex traders.
Political landscape shifts: PDP grants former President Jonathan waiver from presidential screening, likely making him their sole 2027 candidate. Meanwhile, former Communications Minister Isa Pantami withdrew from Gombe governorship race after rejecting consensus arrangement, while over 10 APC aspirants rejected primary results nationwide citing irregularities.
EFCC arrested former Power Minister Saleh Mamman in Kaduna after he remained in hiding following his 75-year imprisonment. Police in Akwa Ibom rescued two women from a mob that stripped, assaulted, and attempted unlawful execution. In sports, Arsenal won English Premier League after 22 years.