The National Economic Council has approved a 90-day economic action plan designed to alleviate the cost of living, enhance food affordability, and attract investment.
Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, defended his decision to run in the 2027 election against a sitting president from the South-West.
An awaiting-trial inmate, Osita Thomas, escaped during a court appearance in Edo State. Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Police arrested a man for allegedly using a forged “PRESIDENCY” number plate on his Lexus SUV in Maitama, Abuja.
Additionally, candidates shortlisted for the first batch of 30,000 paramilitary positions will be required to take drug tests before receiving their appointment letters. The Federal Government has also announced a harmonised examination timetable for 2027, with the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) scheduled for March, and results for NECO, WAEC, NABTEB, and NBAIS expected in August.
Here’s a summary of the leading stories:
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NEC approves 90-day plan to reduce cost of living:
The initiative aims to improve food affordability, streamline tax processes, tackle investment barriers, and provide regulated household support. Vice President Kashim Shettima urged governors to ensure reforms benefit ordinary Nigerians.
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Makinde addresses candidacy against a sitting president:
Makinde referenced the 1999 elections, noting that the South-West can support multiple candidates without compromising its interests.
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Inmate escapes during court appearance:
Osita Thomas, 28, fled while on trial for conspiracy and theft. The Nigeria Correctional Service has requested public help to locate him.
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Police arrest man for using counterfeit presidency plate:
The suspect was stopped in Maitama while driving a Lexus SUV with a hidden plate that read “PRESIDENCY.” He allegedly impersonated a permanent secretary from the Office of the Secretary to the Government.
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Shortlisted paramilitary candidates face drug tests:
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board has announced that candidates must obtain a drug-free certificate from the NDLEA before receiving appointment letters, with the portal open from October 28 to November 13.
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Proposed exam timetable for 2027:
The UTME is proposed for March 15-25, while NECO will run from April 1 to May 14, and WAEC from May 11 to June 18, enabling tertiary admissions to commence by September 2027.
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