• Aliko Dangote retires as Chairman of Dangote Cement
• UK’s new visa rules threaten thousands of Nigerian workers
• Peter Obi urges leaders to focus on development, not 2027 politics
• EFCC warns Nigerians against fake foreign airline ticket promo scams
• Tinubu hosts 1999 Governors in reunion to reflect on democracy and unity

Across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, these are the top five Nigerian news stories you shouldn’t miss.

Aliko Dangote retires as Chairman of Dangote Cement

Business magnate Aliko Dangote has announced his retirement as Chairman and Director of Dangote Cement Plc, effective July 25, 2025.

According to a statement by the Group’s Chief Branding & Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, Dangote stepped down to focus on other key ventures, including his refinery, petrochemicals, fertiliser operations, and government relations—efforts aimed at advancing the company’s five-year business plan.

The board has appointed Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman. Additionally, Hajiya Mariya Aliko Dangote was named to the board, while Prof. Dorothy Ufot retired from her position.

UK’s new visa rules threaten thousands of Nigerian workers

Thousands of Nigerians working in the United Kingdom under the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or Skilled Worker visas are facing uncertainty following new immigration regulations by the British government.

As part of efforts to reduce migration, the UK has removed over 100 job roles, including several skilled positions, from the list of eligible occupations for sponsorship. In addition, salary thresholds for remaining eligible jobs have been increased by at least 30 percent.

The changes, which took effect on July 22, 2025, also impact various visa categories, including the Skilled Worker and Health and Care visas. Only jobs listed on the newly introduced Temporary Shortage Occupation List now qualify for sponsorship if they fall under previously lower-skilled categories (RQF Level 3–5).

These reforms have sparked concern among foreign workers and employers alike, especially within sectors that heavily rely on migrant labour.

Peter Obi urges leaders to focus on development, not 2027 politics

Former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian politicians to stop fixating on the 2027 elections and instead channel their energy towards governance and improving citizens’ welfare.

Speaking on Friday at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar after meeting dentistry students at the University of Calabar, Obi stressed the importance of development over political distractions. “We must stop discussing politics and start discussing the development of the people,” he said.

He highlighted critical areas like education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation as urgent priorities. “We cannot achieve any of this without investing in the people,” Obi added, urging leaders to shift their focus to measurable and impactful governance.

EFCC warns Nigerians against fake foreign airline ticket promo scams

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised the alarm over a new wave of fraudulent foreign airline ticket discount promos being used to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.

In a statement issued by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the commission revealed that several suspects have already been arrested in connection with the scam. According to the EFCC, the perpetrators use malware to gain unauthorised access to victims’ bank account details and offer fake discounted tickets for as low as ₦1,500 to ₦2,000.

Describing the scheme as a growing threat, the anti-graft agency urged Nigerians to be cautious and avoid falling for seemingly attractive travel deals circulating online. The EFCC reiterated its commitment to tracking down and prosecuting those involved in defrauding the public.

Tinubu hosts 1999 Governors in reunion to reflect on democracy and unity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday welcomed members of the 1999 Class of Governors to the State House, Abuja, in a symbolic reunion that marked their shared role in launching Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

The delegation, led by former Edo State Governor Chief Lucky Igbinedion, held a closed-door meeting with the President. Sources described the session as warm and reflective, focusing on issues of national unity, democratic consolidation, and good governance.

President Tinubu, who served as Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 under the now-defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD), expressed joy at reconnecting with his former colleagues after more than two decades. He praised their enduring commitment to democracy and encouraged continued efforts toward national development.