Nigerian News Roundup – July 24, 2026

Stay informed with today's biggest headlines from across Nigeria, covering politics, security, business, diplomacy, and public affairs.

Tinubu Approves Major Expansion of Nigerian Army

President Bola Tinubu has approved a major restructuring of the Nigerian Army, increasing its strength from eight to 12 divisions and authorising the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.

The expansion is aimed at improving Nigeria's response to insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, communal violence, and other security threats. New divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City, while the government has also pledged increased investment in military equipment, operational readiness, and troop welfare.

House of Representatives Advances State Police Bill

The House of Representatives has approved key amendments to the constitutional bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria.

Supporters argue that decentralising policing will strengthen local security and improve responses to rising insecurity, while critics continue to express concerns over possible political abuse by state governments. The bill still requires further legislative processes before becoming law.

U.S. Imposes 12.5% Tariff on Some Nigerian Imports

The United States has introduced a 12.5% tariff on selected Nigerian imports, a move expected to affect exporters and bilateral trade.

Trade experts say the decision could increase costs for Nigerian businesses exporting to the U.S., although officials are expected to engage Washington to minimise the impact on trade relations.

Ted Cruz Criticises Nigeria Over Insecurity

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has accused Nigerian authorities of hiring lobbyists instead of adequately addressing the country's security challenges, particularly violence affecting Christian communities.

The remarks have sparked renewed debate over Nigeria's handling of insecurity and its international image. Nigerian officials have previously maintained that insecurity affects citizens of all religious backgrounds and have defended the government's efforts to tackle terrorism and criminal violence.

Germany Pledges Continued Security Support

Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria's fight against terrorism and regional insecurity.

During high-level meetings in Abuja, German officials also expressed interest in expanding economic cooperation, noting that Nigeria remains one of Germany's most important trading partners in sub-Saharan Africa.

Central Bank Holds Interest Rate Steady

The Central Bank of Nigeria has retained its benchmark interest rate at 26.5%, citing global economic uncertainty and renewed geopolitical tensions.

The decision reflects the bank's cautious approach as it seeks to balance inflation control with economic growth amid volatile international markets.

Police Investigate Viral Misconduct Video

Authorities have arrested four police officers after a viral video allegedly showed ethnic bias and unprofessional conduct.

The incident has generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for greater accountability and reforms within the police force.

Education: Kaduna Targets Out-of-School Children

The Kaduna State Government has unveiled new education data designed to help return 187,719 out-of-school children to classrooms.

Officials say the initiative will guide targeted interventions aimed at improving school enrolment and reducing educational inequality across the state.

Looking Ahead

Security remains the dominant issue in Nigeria, with major military reforms, the push for state policing, and continued international cooperation shaping today's headlines. Economic developments, including new U.S. tariffs and the Central Bank's monetary policy decision, are also expected to influence the country's business environment in the coming weeks.