Trending and latest headlines of Nigeria
Date: July 14, 2025
Category: Nigeria News, Politics, Economy, Security, Infrastructure
Keywords: News today in Nigeria, Buhari dies, Nigeria coastal highway loan, IMF Nigeria budget, Nigeria opposition alliance, Mokwa floods
Top Stories (July 14, 2025)
Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari Passes Away at 82
Nigeria mourns the death of ex-President and former military dictator Muhammadu Buhari on July 13, 2025, in London after a long illness. Buhari, best known for his war on corruption and tough crackdown on the #EndSARS movement in 2020, dies behind a deeply polarized legacy tainted by economic setbacks and continued security failures (Reuters).
Nigeria Raises $747M for Coastal Highway Project
A $747 million syndicated loan, organized by Deutsche Bank, has been mobilized to fund the first 47 km stage of Nigeria's planned 700 km coastal highway from Lagos to Calabar. The country's largest ever infrastructure loan, it is projected to be completed in eight years (Reuters).
IMF Calls for Budget Realignment in Face of Lower Oil Prices
The IMF requested Nigeria to review its 2025 budget due to lower-than-projected oil prices (~$68/barrel), which are below the ₦75/barrel benchmark. The IMF has also recommended that Nigeria expand cash transfers in order to fight widespread poverty alongside high inflation (Reuters).
Inflation Reaches 24%, Highest in 18 Years
July inflation rose to 24.08%, driven by foodstuffs and the removal of fuel subsidies. In response, the central bank raised interest rates to 18.75%—the highest in nearly two decades (StreetInsider.com).
Mokwa Floods Claim Over 500 Lives in Niger State
A devastating flood in Niger State Mokwa has killed over 500 persons, left over 600 persons listed as missing, and displaced over 3,500 people. The tragedy is one of the worst floods experienced in the region and has prompted immediate humanitarian relief (Wikipedia).
Opposition Alliance Forms Ahead of 2027 Elections
Former presidents Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have unveiled the Africa Democratic Congress, a coalition that will oppose President Bola Tinubu and his governing APC in the 2027 elections (AP News).
Broader Context & Implications
| Area | Key Developments |
|---|---|
| Governance | Buhari’s death triggers national reflection on corruption, military rule, and democratic backsliding. |
| Infrastructure | Coastal highway loan reflects intensified efforts to improve trade and regional connectivity. |
| Economy | Limited fiscal space resulting from lower oil revenues; IMF demands reforms and poverty safety nets. |
| Cost of Living | Inflation remains multi-year-high; rate rises are meant to stabilize. |
| Climate & Disaster | Mokwa flooding reveals increased exposure to adverse weather and infrastructure deficiencies. |
| Politics | Signs of opposition cohesion signals greater contestation ahead of the 2027 elections. |
Bottom Line
Nigeria stands at the point of no return. Buhari's death brings nationwide mourning. In the interim, economic reform and infrastructure spending are stabilizing the nation—but inflation and climate disasters such as the Mokwa floods are testing resilience. Political blocs are also realigning in preparation for 2027, and a dynamic national landscape emerges.