Politics News

Oil Sector Reforms & Production Gains

Nigeria’s crude oil output has risen to between 1.7 million and 1.83 million barrels per day as drilling activity increases. This is being attributed to investor-friendly reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s “Project One Million Barrels” initiative.
The government is using these gains to argue that recent tough economic decisions (e.g. subsidy removal, FX unification) are starting to pay off.

Oil Workers Strike & Industrial Unrest
The national oil workers’ union (PENGASSAN) has launched a nationwide strike after over 800 workers were dismissed at the Dangote Oil Refinery, reportedly for unionizing.

The strike has affected key regulatory and operational offices (NNPC, NUPRC, etc.) and threatens to destabilize oil production and distribution.

“Worst Is Over” — Tinubu’s Optimistic Messaging Amid Hardship
On Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, President Tinubu declared that the “worst is over,” citing economic indicators like inflation decline, trade surpluses, and increased reserves.
However, critics remain skeptical, pointing to persistent poverty, hardship among citizens, and questions about transparency in social welfare disbursements.

Security & Violence Outbreaks

• In Kwara State (north-central), 12 forest guards were killed in an attack by unidentified gunmen.
• Attacks in Benue State resulted in over 40 deaths in several communities, attributed to clashes between herders and farmers.
• Separatist violence continues in the southeast: at least 30 people were killed along the Okigwe-Owerri highway. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its security wing are suspected. AP News

Early Campaigning for 2027 Elections
Political activity is heating up ahead of the 2027 general elections. Parties and politicians are beginning to make strategic moves, alliances, and public posturing well before formal campaigns begin. Punch News
The current president, Bola Tinubu, is expected to seek a second term under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Opposition groups are also trying to consolidate. For instance, the Africa Democratic Congress merged its leadership into a coalition including figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to present a united challenge.

Rivers State Emergency Rule Lifted
The state of emergency that had suspended the governor, deputy governor, and lawmakers in Rivers State (imposed in March 2025 because of pipeline vandalism and political turmoil) was lifted in mid-September.
Elected officials have since resumed their duties.

Nigeria & BRICS Partnership
Nigeria has been accepted as a “partner country” of the BRICS bloc, aligning with a broader push in the Global South for more independent economic cooperation and alternatives to traditional Western-led institutions.