Missed the buzz? Here’s a quick roundup of standout news from Nigeria and beyond highlighting the triumphs, challenges and milestones that shaped our headlines as we wrapped up September and entered October 2025.
1. Energy & Oil: A Mixed Bag of Progress and Pressure
Nigeria’s oil and energy sector saw major movement this week.
Production climbed to between 1.7 and 1.83 million barrels per day, i.e., a small but promising rebound after months of reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence.
However, not everything was smooth sailing. A brief strike at Dangote Refinery led to a 16% cut in national output, disrupting exports and power supply. The refinery also suspended naira-priced petrol sales due to crude allocation shortages, stirring debates about Nigeria’s dependence on local refining.
In brighter news, the Federal Government announced plans to commission the $400 million Otakikpo export terminal in Rivers State and Nigeria’s first new crude export facility in 50 years.
2. Security & Violence: Tragedies That Shook the Nation
In Kogi, a boat accident on the Niger River claimed at least 26 lives as traders journeyed to Edo State for market day.
Elsewhere, in Kwara, 12 forest guards were killed in an attack by gunmen, raising fresh concerns about rural safety and armed violence.
In Lagos, tragedy struck the entertainment industry as Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, a popular TV presenter, died after reportedly falling from a building while escaping armed robbers.
3. Economy & Investment: A Ray of Optimism
Despite domestic challenges, global investors are paying attention.
Nigerian-born billionaire Bayo Ogunlesi, founder of Global Infrastructure Partners, described Nigeria as an “exciting place to invest in”, citing government reforms and private sector innovation.
4. Nigeria @ 65: Reflections, Rebranding, and Resilience
Nigeria marked its 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1st but this year’s celebration came with a twist.
The traditional military parade was cancelled, replaced by smaller civic events under the theme: “All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.”
Festivities included interfaith prayers, youth dialogues, and arts exhibitions with one symbolic highlight and the National Theatre was officially renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture & Creative Arts, honoring the Nobel laureate’s lifelong contributions to Nigerian identity.
5. Entertainment & Lifestyle: Nigerian Stars on Global Stages
The entertainment scene had its share of glitz and emotion this week.
At Paris Fashion Week, Temi Otedola made her runway debut for L’Oréal Paris, becoming the brand’s first African digital ambassador. She walked alongside global icons like Viola Davis, Eva Longoria, Cara Delevingne, and Kendall Jenner, calling the experience a “dream come true.”
Meanwhile, the #BBN2025 finale kept fans buzzing.
Though the crown went elsewhere, the winner Imisi captured hearts nationwide praised for their growth, strategy and authenticity throughout the season.
And in music, Adekunle Gold’s new album “Fuji” continues to dominate playlists, blending traditional Lagos sounds with modern storytelling in what critics are calling his most mature body of work yet.
The Bigger Picture
From policy shifts to pop culture wins, Nigeria continues to evolve ,balancing reform and resilience, struggle and success. Each headline tells part of a larger story: a nation still finding its rhythm but determined to shine.
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.
