Last week was packed with major developments across Nigeria and West Africa, from political drama and regional security scares to big wins in entertainment, lifestyle moments and sporting highlights. Whether you were too busy to keep up or just want a quick smart recap, here’s a breakdown of the key stories everyone was talking about.
Defence shake-up as insecurity intensifies
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, resigned on Dec 1 citing health reasons, a move announced just days after a surge in kidnappings and a national security emergency.
In response, Christopher Gwabin Musa, a retired general and former Chief of Defence Staff was nominated to replace him as Minister of Defence. The shake-up comes amid growing concern that violence is being fuelled not just by armed gangs, but by weak governance and persistent structural issues and critics argue that real progress demands addressing the financial and logistical sources of banditry.
Nigeria seeks international support to tackle rising violence
According to French President Emmanuel Macron, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has requested greater help from France to confront Islamist insurgency, communal clashes and widespread kidnappings in Nigeria’s north.
The call for assistance grows as attacks and mass abductions continue to destabilize many regions, placing urgent pressure on the government’s security strategy.
New regulated bus service to begin on Lekki–Epe corridor
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) announced that 229 high- and medium-capacity buses will roll out on the Lekki–Epe corridor starting December 8, 2025, marking the first phase of the Lekki–Epe Bus Reform Scheme. Routes will include Ajah–CMS/Marina, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja. The goal is to promote safer, more reliable, regulated transport along busy commuter corridors.
The plan aims to phase out “korope” minibuses on major highways, reassigning them to feeder or community routes to improve traffic flow and public transport standards.
Electricity meter rollout gets attention
The regulator Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced that 600,000 to 700,000 electricity meters are ready for nationwide distribution.
This move comes as part of broader efforts to improve electricity billing and delivery and a potential win for consumers, depending on installation speed and reliability.
Wizkid is making headlines again with his documentary
Wizkid: Long Live Lagos is set to debut on December 11, 2025, via HBO (and stream on Max/Showmax). The film charts his journey from Lagos to global Afrobeats superstardom, highlighting how his music helped reshape perceptions of Africa worldwide.
He also announced a homecoming concert in Lagos titled “GOAT: The Greatest of All Time Experience” scheduled for December 28 at TBS, Marina. It’s shaping up to be one of the biggest shows of the festive season.
The festive season vibes are in full swing: as the year-end “party mode” ramps up, several concerts, festivals and lifestyle events are expected to dominate Lagos nightlife inline with what many call Detty December.
On the creative front, there’s also a strong spotlight on history and culture: an expansive exhibition celebrating Fela Kuti, his music, activism and legacy recently opened in Lagos. It features artifacts, photos, art, live music performances and pays homage to his lasting impact on Afrobeat and Nigerian culture.
Benin Republic Coup Attempt: What Really Happened on Sunday Morning
In the early hours of December 7, 2025, Benin Republic was thrown into chaos when a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation seized the national television station and announced they had overthrown President Patrice Talon’s government. Led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, the mutineers claimed worsening security in northern Benin and neglect of fallen soldiers as justification for their takeover. But within hours, loyalist forces regained control of key locations after brief gunfire exchanges in Cotonou and the government declared the coup attempt foiled. At least fourteen soldiers were arrested and ECOWAS immediately condemned the uprising, deploying a standby regional force to stabilize the situation. Nigeria played a major role and deploying fighter jets and ground troops at Benin’s request to dislodge the coup plotters from strategic positions. The failed coup underscores rising political fragility in West Africa but Benin’s quick recovery also shows strong regional resolve to protect democratic order.
Nigeria’s Swift Military Intervention Foils Benin Coup Attempt
Nigeria played a decisive role in stopping the coup in Benin Republic on December 7, 2025. After Benin’s government requested assistance, the Nigerian Air Force deployed fighter jets and conducted targeted airstrikes on positions held by the coup plotters, helping loyalist forces regain control of strategic locations, including the state TV station. Nigerian ground troops were also mobilized to support Benin’s military in restoring order. The swift intervention was crucial in dismantling the uprising within hours and reaffirmed Nigeria’s role as a stabilizing force in West Africa.
Korra Obidi’s Controversial Tribute at Fela’s Grave: What Went Down
During a recent trip home to Nigeria, Korra Obidi visited Fela Anikulapo‑Kuti’s resting place and stirred national conversation with an unconventional tribute. In a video shared on Instagram, she performed a dance and twerk routine at the graveside, calling it her “offering” to the Afrobeat legend and saying it reflected the bold energy he loved when alive. Though his son Seun Kuti reportedly expressed support for the homage, the performance ignited mixed reactions across social media while some applauded the expressive tribute, others criticized it as disrespectful to a revered icon.
Wizkid & Asake Announce Joint EP — “REAL (Vol. 1)”
Nigerian Afrobeats superstars Wizkid and Asake just dropped big news: they’re releasing a joint EP called REAL (Vol. 1) this December.
The announcement came during an Apple Music Radio takeover , Wizkid described the project as “for the people,” while Asake nodded in agreement. They also previewed a song titled “Jogodo,” giving fans a taste of what to expect: a blend of Wizkid’s smooth Afropop and Asake’s energetic, street‑tinged style.
Rwanda’s First Lady Turns Heads at Davido’s Sold‑Out Kigali Concert
Jeannette Kagame, First Lady of Rwanda, made a surprise appearance at Davido’s December 5 concert in Kigali as part of his 5iveAlive Tour and adding a touch of glamour to the already packed and energetic BB Arena crowd.
Her presence wasn’t just symbolic: videos shared by her office captured her enjoying the show, cheering along with fans, and immersing herself in the music , a move that many fans interpreted as a celebration of cultural exchange and a nod to pan‑African unity through music.
Simi partners with MOL Tech Accessories to Launch “MOL × SYMS”
Nigerian singer‑songwriter Simi has signed a five‑year endorsement deal with MOL Tech Accessories, becoming the brand’s new face as they launch a collaborative line called MOL × SYMS , a fusion of technology, lifestyle and culture aimed at creating high‑quality, locally trusted tech products for Nigerians.
Final Thought
Last week in Nigeria and across West Africa proved just how dynamic and fast‑moving the region is, from high‑stakes political developments and security interventions, to headline-grabbing moments in music, lifestyle, and culture. Whether it was the foiled coup in Benin, Wizkid and Asake’s joint EP announcement, Korra Obidi’s tribute at Fela’s grave or Simi’s new tech partnership, the stories show a region constantly balancing tradition, creativity, and the pressures of modern governance. For readers, it’s a reminder that keeping up with the week’s highlights isn’t just about news but it’s about understanding the pulse of a vibrant, resilient, and ever-evolving Africa.
Stay tuned for next week’s roundup because, in Nigeria, the news never sleeps. Follow Lists NG on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok for more.
