Major policy decisions, security concerns and economic updates shaped Nigeria’s news cycle on Thursday as the United States imposed fresh visa restrictions, the Senate confirmed a new Defence Minister, and the Federal Executive Council approved the country’s 2026–2028 fiscal framework.
The US government announced visa bans targeting individuals accused of directing or supporting violations of religious freedom in Nigeria and several other nations. The restrictions, which may also extend to affected individuals’ family members, form part of Washington’s renewed efforts to address global rights abuses.
In Abuja, the Senate confirmed retired Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, following President Bola Tinubu’s request for prompt consideration of the nomination. Lawmakers also subjected three ambassadorial nominees to intense screening, pressing them on national security, competence and diplomatic priorities.
The Federal Executive Council approved the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, projecting a growth rate of 4.68% and total federation revenue of N50.74 trillion. Under the fiscal forecast, the Federal Government is expected to receive N22.6 trillion, while states and local governments will take N16.3 trillion and N11.85 trillion respectively.
Security remained a major focus as General Musa reiterated his stance that Nigeria must not negotiate with terrorists or pay ransom. He argued that tackling insecurity would require an integrated national database connecting citizens’ identities across security, financial and administrative systems. Lawmakers separately pushed for the public naming and prosecution of those financing terrorism, calling it a crucial step in reversing the country’s security challenges.
In economic policy, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced a significant increase in weekly cash withdrawal limits, raising the ceiling from N100,000 to N500,000. The apex bank also removed its cap on cash deposits, signalling a further loosening of earlier monetary restrictions.
Elsewhere, tragedy struck in Lagos as three people—including a police officer, a firefighter and a scavenger—were killed in separate road crashes. The day also saw FCT Minister Nyesom Wike appoint Mukhtar Galadima as Senior Special Assistant on Development Control and Planning, expanding his administration’s team in the capital.
