Nigeria Latest News Headlines
Nigeria, Africa's largest economy and most populated country, continues to bear witness to gargantuan political, economic, and social happenings in July 2025. From the heartbreaking goodbye to former President Muhammadu Buhari to massive infrastructure investments, deadly floods, inflation pressures, and political shifts, Nigeria's own headlines tell a story of a nation both in mourning and movement.
This article provides a comprehensive rundown of Nigeria's most trending news headlines in July 2025.
Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari Buried in Daura with Full Military Honours
Late President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, on July 15, 2025, after passing away in London at the age of 82. The state burial had visitors from all over the country, including President Bola Tinubu, military leaders, and monarchs.
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, was renowned primarily for his anti-corruption war and efforts at stabilizing northern Nigeria. But his legacy remains challenged by economic hardship and heightened insecurity during his tenure.
Deadly Floods Cause Havoc on Mokwa and Over 30 Nigerian States
Nigeria has been struck by one of the deadliest flood tragedies in recent years. Flash floods in May 2025 in Mokwa, Niger State, claimed the lives of more than 500 individuals, hurt hundreds, and displaced over 3,500 people. Floods have impacted 15 million people in 31 states across the nation, destroying homes, agricultural land, and highways.
The severity of this wide-scale destruction speaks volumes about Nigeria's vulnerability to climate change and poor infrastructure.
Nigeria Secures $747 Million Syndicated Loan for Coastal Highway Mega Project
In a major infrastructure push, Nigeria secured a $747 million syndicated loan led by Deutsche Bank to fund the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Phase one is a 47 km length, with the overall 700 km project expected to help establish regional connectivity and trade.
The coastal highway is a critical element of President Tinubu's overall agenda for the development of transport infrastructure and the advancement of economic growth.
IMF Tells Nigeria to Rebalance Budget After Crude Slump
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) called on Nigeria to recalculate 2025 budget assumptions following declines in global crude oil prices from $75 to about $68 a barrel. The IMF recommends phasing out fuel subsidies, increasing tax revenues, and applying targeted cash transfers to support vulnerable citizens.
This warning points to the continued dependence of Nigeria on oil revenues and the need for fiscal reforms.
⚠️ U.S. Introduces New Visa Restrictions for Nigerians
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria introduced tighter visa rules, limiting non-immigrant visas to three months single entry, from the earlier five-year multiple-entry visas. The U.S. quoted immigration and security concerns, infuriating students, business travelers, and professionals.
The move may reduce Nigerian travel to the U.S. and impact diaspora remittance flows.
30 Bandits Killed by Nigerian Forces in Joint Operation
Nigerian police and military forces killed at least 30 armed bandits after they launched attacks on a number of villages in the northwestern region. The joint operation, which was one of many enhanced attempts to combat insecurity and violence in the countryside, resulted in casualties among both security agents and militants.
Nigeria's Credit Rating Upgraded to B3 by Moody's
Moody's upgraded Nigeria's sovereign rating to B3 from Caa1 on grounds of improved external reserves, reduced fiscal deficit, and positive reforms. The upgrading improves investor confidence and has the potential to reduce the cost of borrowing.
Dangote Refinery Ups U.S. Crude Imports
Dangote Refinery, the largest in Africa, will take in 5 million barrels of U.S. crude in July 2025 to sustain its refining. The refinery at around 85% capacity has been sourcing abroad as local supplies are limited.
Inflation Slows Slightly to 22.97% in May
Nigeria's inflation rate dipped to 22.97% in May 2025 from 23.7% in April, according to analysts who blame it on restrained food price stabilisation and a tougher naira following central bank interventions.
Although it slowed, however, inflation remains one of the world's highest, consuming purchasing power for millions.
New ADC Political Coalition Formed Ahead of 2027 Elections
Top opposition leaders like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have united in a new political coalition under the banner of African Democratic Congress (ADC). The new coalition will face the ruling APC party in the 2027 general election, an early indicator of political re-alignment.
Final Thoughts
Nigeria in July 2025 is a dynamic mix of mourning, restructuring, and resilience. From the death of a former president, to record floods and sweeping economic transformation, the country is going through and grappling with both manifest and underlying transformations. Investments in infrastructure, global financial reputation, and shifting political loyalties will shape Nigeria's trajectory to 2027 and beyond.
Catch up on additional breaking news on Nigeria's top stories, and stay with credible sources like Reuters, AP News, and The Guardian Nigeria for ongoing updates.