Nigerian Newspaper Headlines for Today, Sunday, November 10, 2024
Good morning, Nigeria! Here is a roundup of the top Nigerian news headlines for today, Sunday, November 10, 2024.
1. WTO Confirms Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Sole Candidate for Director-General Position
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has confirmed that Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current Director-General, is the only candidate for the position as her first term nears its end. The WTO initiated the appointment process on October 8, with member nations given until November 8 to submit their nominations. According to a statement released on Saturday, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her willingness to serve a second four-year term back in September. Petter Olberg, Chair of the WTO’s General Council, confirmed that no additional nominations were received, paving the way for Okonjo-Iweala’s likely reappointment.
2. Tinubu Reappoints Abdullahi Mustapha as NBRDA Director-General
President Bola Tinubu has reappointed Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha as the Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) for another five-year term. The decision, announced by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, highlights Mustapha’s achievements over the past tenure. Mustapha, a Professor of Bioinorganic Chemistry from Kano State, is expected to drive innovation in biotechnology, focusing on food security and pharmaceutical advancements.
3. Tinubu Government Allocates ₦5 Billion for Renovation of VP Shettima’s Lagos Residence
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration has allocated ₦5 billion for the renovation of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s official residence in Lagos. An analysis by The PUNCH revealed that payments were made to Denderi Investment Limited for the renovation work in May and September 2024. Advocacy groups like SERAP have criticized the expenditure, arguing that it violates Nigeria’s anti-corruption commitments, especially amidst the nation’s economic challenges.
4. Deji Adeyanju: “Even 300 Years Wouldn’t Be Enough for Tinubu to Solve Nigeria’s Hardship”
Human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has stated that President Bola Tinubu cannot alleviate the ongoing economic hardship in Nigeria, even if given 300 years in office. Adeyanju criticized Tinubu’s policies, labeling Nigeria as an “anti-poor nation.” He remarked that the country’s economic status does not favor average citizens and accused the government of implementing policies that disproportionately affect the poor.
5. President Tinubu to Attend Arab-Islamic Summit in Saudi Arabia
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja today for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to attend the Joint Arab-Islamic Summit. The summit, set to commence on Monday, November 11, 2024, will address the escalating Israel-Palestine conflict. Tinubu is expected to call for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
6. Edo Governor Obaseki Excluded from Okpebholo’s Inauguration
Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has expressed dissatisfaction over his exclusion from the inauguration plans of Monday Okpebholo by the All Progressives Congress (APC). Obaseki criticized the APC’s move, describing it as lawless and asserting that the state government should oversee such events. Okpebholo is set to take office on November 12, 2024.
7. First Lady Remi Tinubu Denies Organizing National Prayer Event
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has dismissed reports that she is planning a national prayer event. Her media adviser, Busola Kukoyi, clarified that the claims circulating on social media are false. The alleged event had sparked backlash, with critics questioning its necessity.
8. New Terrorist Group ‘Lakurawa’ Attacks Kebbi Community, Killing 15
A new terrorist group, identified as Lakurawa, has reportedly attacked Mera, a town in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing 15 residents and stealing over 100 cows. Bashir Isah Mera, a prominent resident, confirmed the incident. The state’s Governor, Nasir Idris, has ordered the deployment of security forces to contain the situation.
9. Obasanjo Says He No Longer Belongs to Any Political Party
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reiterated his neutrality, stating that he no longer aligns with any political party. Obasanjo made this declaration during a thanksgiving service in Abuja, held in honor of Chief Onyema Ugochukwu’s 80th birthday. His comments come amidst increasing political and economic challenges facing the nation.
10. Obidient Movement Confident of Peter Obi’s Victory in 2027 Election
The Obidient Movement, led by National Coordinator Dr. Tanko Yunusa, has expressed optimism that Labour Party’s Peter Obi will win the 2027 presidential election. Yunusa cited Obi’s track record and widespread public support as key factors driving their confidence in his potential victory
