Abuja in the headlines as Nigeria faces coup plot trials and terrorism convictions; capital city houses the Federal Government and key institutions. Population: ~3.6 million in 2023.
The US has issued travel warnings and ordered non-essential staff to leave Nigeria due to escalating violence, terrorism, and kidnapping. Nigeria's government criticizes the advisories as unbalanced, citing ongoing security efforts and progress. The situation remains volatile across many states, with US warnings covering over half of Nigeria's regions.
Nigeria has prosecuted over 500 Boko Haram and ISWAP suspects, securing 386 convictions in a series of fast-tracked trials. Sentences range from five years to life imprisonment, with rehabilitation mandated. The trials, monitored by international observers, address a decade-long insurgency that has caused thousands of deaths and displacements.
Nigeria has filed 13 charges against six suspects linked to an alleged coup plot to overthrow President Tinubu. The defendants include a retired major-general and a serving police inspector; a seventh figure, former Bayelsa governor Timipre Sylva, remains at large. Proceedings begin in Abuja as the case highlights ongoing security concerns in West Africa.
A former French national and an accomplice in Madagascar have been charged over an alleged plot to destabilise the country, including plans to sabotage power lines and incite unrest. The group reportedly planned actions for 18 April and used a WhatsApp group to coordinate. Madagascar’s political instability and past protests provide the backdrop for the case.
Nigeria says screening of volunteers for evacuation from South Africa is ongoing; five evacuation flights have been approved, with more than 500 Nigerians cleared. The first batch is expected to depart once permits are secured as tensions over xenophobia persist.
Retired and active security figures warn against regional blame as Nigeria faces a persisting security crisis. Attacks across Kebbi, Zamfara and other states have left dozens dead or abducted; officials urge a united, proactive response while noting political rhetoric is complicating efforts.
General Authority for Statistics shows April IPI at 84.9, down from March and a year earlier. Mining and quarrying lead the decline, while oil-related activity remains weak. Some manufacturing segments rise, notably basic metals and paper products, as the sector battles a volatile energy backdrop tied to regional tensions.
Migrants face renewed risk as anti-immigrant protests and a June 30 deadline raise fears of xenophobic violence. Nigeria and other countries are organising evacuation flights for their citizens from South Africa, while regional governments warn against vigilante action.
A Nigerian Federal High Court ruling ordering INEC to deregister five political parties has been stayed by the Court of Appeal, which also rebuked the trial judge for proceeding despite a stay order. The development preserves the parties’ registration ahead of 2027 elections, while INEC and parties prepare for ongoing appeals.
Armed groups have abducted dozens of students and killed several in Lassa, Borno State, while exams were taking place. Security forces are conducting rescue operations with air and ground support, and officials are coordinating with local leaders to account for missing pupils and staff.