Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Tuesday, 15th October, 2024

Good Morning, Nigeria! Welcome to today’s roundup of top newspaper headlines for Tuesday, 15th October 2024.

1. Super Eagles Arrive Nigeria After Libya Ordeal

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have returned to the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport following a harrowing experience in Libya.

Their flight from Libya lasted three and a half hours, and the chartered aircraft refueled in Kano before proceeding to Abuja and Lagos.

The team had flown to Libya on Sunday, October 13, to prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Mediterranean Knights, scheduled for 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15.

Upon arrival at Al Abraq Airport, the players and officials were stranded for over 13 hours, with no reception or assistance from the Libyan Football Federation. The NFF revealed that their aircraft, initially intended to land in Benghazi, was diverted without explanation to Al Abraq, a small airport mainly used for Hajj operations.

2. Economic Hardship: “We Empathize with the Poor, But Policies Are Necessary” – FG

The Federal Government has reiterated its stance on current economic policies despite public discontent.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday at the 30th anniversary of the Nigerian Economic Summit, Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed empathy for struggling Nigerians but emphasized that the policies are essential.

He highlighted steps being taken to stabilize the economy and urged Nigerians to trust the process.

3. President Tinubu Welcomes Super Eagles After Libya Ordeal

President Bola Tinubu has expressed relief and gratitude over the safe return of the Super Eagles to Nigeria after their distressing experience in Libya.

According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu condemned the treatment of the team, calling it “unsportsmanlike and inhumane.”

He urged CAF to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure appropriate sanctions.

Tinubu also praised the coordinated efforts of Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry and Sports Ministry in addressing the situation swiftly.

4. Edo 2024: PDP Files Petition to Reclaim ‘Stolen Mandate’

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the 2024 Edo governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, have filed a petition at the election tribunal, challenging the results announced by INEC.

PDP Chairman in Edo, Anthony Aziegbemi, disclosed the development on Monday, accusing the APC of manipulating the outcome.

He expressed confidence that the tribunal would overturn the results of the September 21 election.

Aziegbemi further criticized the APC for obstructing the court’s directive to allow PDP access to inspect election materials at the INEC office in Aduwawa.

5. Foreign Affairs Minister Summons Libyan Charge d’Affaires Over Super Eagles Ordeal

The Nigerian government has summoned the Libyan Charge d’Affaires to explain the treatment of the Super Eagles and officials in Libya.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar disclosed this to journalists after a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Tuggar described the situation as “unfortunate” and said the Nigerian mission in Libya has been mobilized to engage with the Super Eagles delegation.

He assured Nigerians that stakeholders are working swiftly to resolve the issue.

6. Ondo PDP Calls Governor’s ₦73,000 Minimum Wage ‘A Greek Gift’

The PDP in Ondo State has criticized Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s announcement of a ₦73,000 minimum wage for civil servants, describing it as a “Greek gift” aimed at vote-buying ahead of the upcoming governorship election.

The opposition party questioned the timing of the announcement, which was made during the APC’s campaign flag-off in Ondo West. PDP spokesman Ayo Fadaka urged citizens not to be deceived by the gesture, accusing the governor of using workers’ welfare to score political points.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, through his media aide Sunday Abire, defended the policy, insisting that workers deserve the wage increase and cautioning the PDP against politicizing the matter.

7. Bayelsa APC Suspends Former Deputy Governor, Six Others

The Yenagoa chapter of the APC has announced the indefinite suspension of former Deputy Governor Werinipre Seibarugu and six other members for alleged anti-party activities.

The suspension followed an incident at Di Crab Hotel, where tensions escalated within the party’s leadership. The APC also disclosed that earlier disruptions occurred in the Sagbama Local Government, where thugs attacked executive members.

Those suspended alongside Seibarugu include Osomkime Blankson, Alex Blankson, Chief Olomo Apina, Dr. Pakinson Mamanuel, Ebiye Waripamo, and Pastor Esther Saiyou.

8. “I Can’t Afford Eggs in My House” – Former Benue Governor Suswam

Former Governor Gabriel Suswam of Benue State has lamented the rising cost of living, revealing that a crate of eggs, which used to cost less than ₦1,000, now sells for ₦10,000.

During an interview on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, Suswam expressed concern about the impact of inflation on Nigerian households.

He called on President Tinubu to reassess his economic policies, noting that many citizens are struggling to meet basic needs, including transportation and food.

9. Peter Obi Defends Nigerian Nurses Seeking Greener Pastures Abroad

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has voiced his support for Nigerian nurses and professionals seeking opportunities overseas.

Speaking on Monday at St. Charles Borromeo College of Nursing and Midwifery, Onitsha, Obi argued that migration benefits the country through foreign remittances.

He emphasized the importance of training more health professionals to meet both domestic and international demand.

10. CAF Investigates Libya’s Treatment of Super Eagles

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched an investigation into the mistreatment of the Super Eagles at Al Abraq Airport in Libya.

In a statement released on Monday, CAF condemned the ordeal faced by the Nigerian team, describing the situation as “unacceptable” and promising to take disciplinary action against those responsible.

CAF confirmed that the case has been referred to its Disciplinary Board, which will determine appropriate sanctions in accordance with CAF’s Statutes and Regulations.

That’s all for today! Stay informed and have a great Tuesday.