Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital, sees nearly 10 million commuters rely on public buses daily. Traditionally a male-dominated industry, the transport sector is now witnessing a shift. Women like Amaka Okoli, a former banker, have turned to driving to survive. She became a commercial bus driver three years ago after losing her job, balancing long hours on the road with caring for her three children.

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Nigeria’s economic crisis pushes women to driving

For the first time in Nigeria, four northern states have closed schools during the month of Ramazan. The decision is fueling a bitter debate across the country, with critics arguing that it disrupts education and unfairly affects non-Muslim students. Watch in for more details!

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Nigeria GDP Grows At Fastest Pace In 3 Years

Nigeria’s economy is showing signs of recovery, growing at its fastest pace in three years with a 3.8% GDP rise in 2024. As Ramadan begins, food prices have dropped, bringing some relief to households. However, soaring rent prices in Lagos continue to strain finances. What’s driving these economic shifts?

Nigeria's economy grows as food prices drop amid Ramazan

Nigeria’s foreign reserves have dropped by $2. 2 billion amid concerns about the central bank’s support for the Naira and the settlement of over $2 billion foreign exchange backlog. Watch this report for more details!

Nigeria's foreign reserves have fallen $2.2 bn since January

Nigeria will ban large fuel trucks from its roads after a series of deadly tanker explosions killed hundreds in recent months. From March 1 tankers carrying 60,000 litres (nearly 16,000 US gallons) or more of fuel are prohibited from using any of the country’s roads. Watch this report for more details!

Nigeria bans large fuel trucks: Tankers carrying over 60,000 litres of fuel banned from using roads

Nigeria bans large fuel trucks after deadly explosions

Nigeria bans large fuel trucks from its roads after deadly tanker explosions

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Nigeria witnessed a second tanker explosion in the last eight days, resulting in 18 people being burned to death in the southeastern state of Enugu. A similar incident the previous week had claimed over 100 lives. According to road safety officials, the explosion occurred on Saturday when the fuel truck experienced a brake failure.

Nigeria tanker explosion: Fuel tanker blast kills 18 in southern Nigeria

Mobile telephone and data subscribers in Nigeria will now have to pay more after the government approved a 50-percent increase in tariffs, as the country battles one of its worst cost-of-living crises in decades.

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The death toll from the explosion of a petrol tanker truck in Nigeria that killed people rushing to gather fuel has risen to 86, emergency services said Sunday.
The truck carrying 60,000 litres (nearly 16,000 gallons) of gasoline exploded after flipping over on a road in the centre of the country on Saturday, authorities said.
Rescuers had previously put the toll at 70 dead.
"We buried 86 burnt corpses between 12:00 pm yesterday to 2:00 am of today," said Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesman for the Niger state's emergency management agency.
"It took us 14 hours to bury the bodies because we couldn't get excavators and had to get locals to dig the mass grave manually."
Another 52 people suffered "severe burns from the explosion", he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-fuel-tanker-explosion-kills-70-as-crowd-rushes-to-scoop-fuel-amid-soaring-prices-8633851" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Nigeria fuel tanker explosion kills 70 as crowd rushes to scoop fuel amid soaring prices</a>
The blast struck at the Dikko junction on the road linking the federal capital Abuja to the northern city of Kaduna.
A crowd of people rushed to the spot where the tanker had turned over in search of fuel, whose price has soared in an economic crisis.
"I saw a woman carrying a gallon of fuel and the gallon exploded and the fuel splashed over me," Dalandi Abdullahi, told AFP from the hospital treating his flame-ravaged arms and torso.
"That was how I was burnt," the 29-year-old explained.
Shopkeeper Bashiru Umar, who lost merchandise in the blaze, said: "The generator was the cause of the fire, and there was no water to extinguish it."
"Those who got burnt were not the ones fetching the oil... Some were also part of the crowd that got burnt, as the crowd was large," the 28-year-old added.
<h2>'Tragic and preventable'</h2>
After taking power in 2023, President Bola Tinubu abolished a costly fuel subsidy, driving up food and transport costs.
He also ended currency controls, causing the naira's value to plummet.
Tinubu has repeatedly called for patience, arguing that his reforms will help attract foreign investors and get the economy moving again.
In the meantime Africa's most populous country has seen inflation touch three-decade highs, ticking at more than 30 percent over the past year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-killed-at-least-40-farmers-in-northeast-nigeria-8620188" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Boko Haram kills at least 40 farmers in northeast Nigeria</a>
With petrol prices rising fivefold in 18 months &ndash; despite the country being Africa's largest oil producer &ndash; some Nigerians have become willing to risk their lives to collect fuel from vehicles involved in road accidents.
More than 170 people died in similar fashion in October in Jigawa state, in northern Nigeria.
In a statement late on Sunday, the country's information minister Mohammed Idris said that "over 265 people have so far lost their lives in this kind of incident... in the past five months".
Tinubu expressed "deep sorrow over the fuel tanker explosion", a statement from his office said Sunday, regretting "the tragic and preventable nature of the incident".
He ordered a national campaign to "raise public awareness about the severe risks and environmental dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers".
Accidents on poorly maintained roads are a frequent occurrence in Nigeria.
Last September, an explosion caused by a collision between a tanker and a truck carrying passengers and livestock claimed at least 59 lives in Niger State.
In 2020, the Federal Road Safety Corps listed 1,531 fuel tanker accidents, claiming over 535 lives.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | In a statement late on Sunday, the country's information minister Mohammed Idris said that "over 265 people have so far lost their lives in this kind of incident... in the past five months".

The death toll from the explosion of a petrol tanker truck in Nigeria that killed people rushing to gather fuel has risen to 86, emergency services said Sunday. The truck carrying 60,000 litres (nearly 16,000 gallons) of gasoline exploded after flipping over on a road in the centre of the country on Saturday, authorities said. Rescuers had previously put the toll at 70 dead. "We buried 86 burnt corpses between 12:00 pm yesterday to 2:00 am of today," said Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesman for the Niger state's emergency management agency. "It took us 14 hours to bury the bodies because we couldn't get excavators and had to get locals to dig the mass grave manually." Another 52 people suffered "severe burns from the explosion", he added. Also read | Nigeria fuel tanker explosion kills 70 as crowd rushes to scoop fuel amid soaring prices The blast struck at the Dikko junction on the road linking the federal capital Abuja to the northern city of Kaduna. A crowd of people rushed to the spot where the tanker had turned over in search of fuel, whose price has soared in an economic crisis. "I saw a woman carrying a gallon of fuel and the gallon exploded and the fuel splashed over me," Dalandi Abdullahi, told AFP from the hospital treating his flame-ravaged arms and torso. "That was how I was burnt," the 29-year-old explained. Shopkeeper Bashiru Umar, who lost merchandise in the blaze, said: "The generator was the cause of the fire, and there was no water to extinguish it." "Those who got burnt were not the ones fetching the oil... Some were also part of the crowd that got burnt, as the crowd was large," the 28-year-old added. 'Tragic and preventable' After taking power in 2023, President Bola Tinubu abolished a costly fuel subsidy, driving up food and transport costs. He also ended currency controls, causing the naira's value to plummet. Tinubu has repeatedly called for patience, arguing that his reforms will help attract foreign investors and get the economy moving again. In the meantime Africa's most populous country has seen inflation touch three-decade highs, ticking at more than 30 percent over the past year. Also read | Boko Haram kills at least 40 farmers in northeast Nigeria With petrol prices rising fivefold in 18 months – despite the country being Africa's largest oil producer – some Nigerians have become willing to risk their lives to collect fuel from vehicles involved in road accidents. More than 170 people died in similar fashion in October in Jigawa state, in northern Nigeria. In a statement late on Sunday, the country's information minister Mohammed Idris said that "over 265 people have so far lost their lives in this kind of incident... in the past five months". Tinubu expressed "deep sorrow over the fuel tanker explosion", a statement from his office said Sunday, regretting "the tragic and preventable nature of the incident". He ordered a national campaign to "raise public awareness about the severe risks and environmental dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers". Accidents on poorly maintained roads are a frequent occurrence in Nigeria. Last September, an explosion caused by a collision between a tanker and a truck carrying passengers and livestock claimed at least 59 lives in Niger State. In 2020, the Federal Road Safety Corps listed 1,531 fuel tanker accidents, claiming over 535 lives. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nigeria petrol tanker truck explosion death toll rises to 86

Cricket has seen some mightiest upsets, but none like Nigeria beating New Zealand. On Monday (Jan 20), the African nation registered their first win in the ongoing Women&rsquo;s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025, beating heavyweight New Zealand by a whisker.
Batting first after losing the toss in the rain-affected match in Kuching, Malaysia, Nigeria scored a gritty 65 for six in 13 overs, with their captain Lucky Piety and batter Lillian Udeh top-scoring, hitting 19* and 18, respectively.&nbsp;
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For the White Ferns, five bowlers picked a wicket each, with Ayaan Lambat being the only exception.&nbsp;
New Zealand&rsquo;s chase went horribly wrong, with opener Kate Irwin getting run out on the first ball without facing a delivery. Her fellow opener, Emma McLeod, departed two overs later to the right-arm seamer Usen Peace.&nbsp;
NZ kept losing wickets at regular intervals, with their scorecard at the end of 11 overs reading 49 for five, needing 17 off two overs.&nbsp;
It is where the game got interesting.&nbsp;
<h2>Time for history!</h2>
Captain Tash Wakelin kept her side in the chase, hitting a four in the penultimate over, with New Zealand scoring eight off it, leaving nine for the final six balls.&nbsp;
They, however, managed just six off Udeh&rsquo;s third over as Nigeria scripted history, winning their maiden ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup event game.&nbsp;
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Udeh was her side&rsquo;s hero for the day, hitting 18 while batting and conceding just eight runs off three overs, including picking a wicket. She won the Player of the Match for her star performance.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Nigerian women&rsquo;s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women&rsquo;s team taking on Samoa on the same day.&nbsp;
Besides, their positions on the points table are almost contrasting. While Nigeria sits in the second spot with one win and a no-result in two scheduled matches, the White Ferns are at the bottom of it, having lost both games played thus far.

Sports, Cricket: The Nigerian women’s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women’s team taking on Samoa on the same day.

Cricket has seen some mightiest upsets, but none like Nigeria beating New Zealand. On Monday (Jan 20), the African nation registered their first win in the ongoing Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025, beating heavyweight New Zealand by a whisker. Batting first after losing the toss in the rain-affected match in Kuching, Malaysia, Nigeria scored a gritty 65 for six in 13 overs, with their captain Lucky Piety and batter Lillian Udeh top-scoring, hitting 19* and 18, respectively. Also read | Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home For the White Ferns, five bowlers picked a wicket each, with Ayaan Lambat being the only exception. New Zealand’s chase went horribly wrong, with opener Kate Irwin getting run out on the first ball without facing a delivery. Her fellow opener, Emma McLeod, departed two overs later to the right-arm seamer Usen Peace. NZ kept losing wickets at regular intervals, with their scorecard at the end of 11 overs reading 49 for five, needing 17 off two overs. It is where the game got interesting. Time for history! Captain Tash Wakelin kept her side in the chase, hitting a four in the penultimate over, with New Zealand scoring eight off it, leaving nine for the final six balls. They, however, managed just six off Udeh’s third over as Nigeria scripted history, winning their maiden ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup event game. Also read | Fit-again Shami throws 'rockets' in training with strapped knee - Watch Udeh was her side’s hero for the day, hitting 18 while batting and conceding just eight runs off three overs, including picking a wicket. She won the Player of the Match for her star performance. Meanwhile, the Nigerian women’s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women’s team taking on Samoa on the same day. Besides, their positions on the points table are almost contrasting. While Nigeria sits in the second spot with one win and a no-result in two scheduled matches, the White Ferns are at the bottom of it, having lost both games played thus far.

Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025: Nigeria beat New Zealand in cricket’s greatest upset

A fuel tanker exploded after flipping over in central Nigeria on Saturday, killing at least 86 people who had scrambled to take the fuel. Watch this report for more details!

Nigeria Fuel Tanker Explosion: Gasoline Explosion Death Toll Rises To 86

A fuel tanker exploded after flipping over in central Nigeria on Saturday, killing at least 70 people who had scrambled to take the fuel. Watch this report for more details!

Nigeria: At least 70 killed after fuel tanker explodes

A fuel tanker exploded after flipping over in central Nigeria on Saturday, killing at least 60 people who had scrambled to take the fuel. Watch this report for more details!

Nigeria: Fuel tanker explosion kills at least 60 people

A fuel tanker exploded after flipping over in central Nigeria on Saturday, killing 70 people who had rushed in to collect the spilling fuel, whose price has skyrocketed during the economic crisis.&nbsp;
"The death toll stands at 70 so far," Kumar Tsukwam, the head of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, told AFP by telephone. 
Tsukwam said a truck carrying 60,000 litres of gasoline had an accident around 10:00 am (0900 GMT) at the Dikko junction on the road linking the federal capital Abuja to the northern city of Kaduna.
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"Most of the victims were burnt beyond recognition," Tsukwam said. "We are at the scene to clear things up."
An FSRC statement said a "large crowd of people gathered to scoop the fuel" when "suddenly the tanker burst into flames, engulfing another tanker".
"So far, 60 corpses have been recovered from the scene;&nbsp;the victims are mostly scavengers," it said.
Niger State Governor Umaru Bago said in a separate statement that an undisclosed number of people had also experienced various degrees of burns.
Last year, shortly after his election, President Bola Tinubu abolished a fuel subsidy.
That sent prices of essentials and other goods soaring, triggering protests.
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The price of gasoline has increased fivefold in 18 months. That has led many to risk their lives to collect fuel during tanker truck accidents, which are common in Africa's most populous country. 
Inflation has been running at over 30 percent for the past year, and a report late last year jointly written by Nigerian authorities, the United Nations, and NGOs said that more than 33 million of Nigeria's roughly 230 million people would go hungry in 2025.
Niger State's Bago said the explosion was "worrisome, heartbreaking and unfortunate", but he added that people should "always be responsible and give priority to their safety".
In October, more than 170 people died in a similar incident in Jigawa State, in northern Nigeria. 
In 2020, the FRSC listed 1,531 fuel tanker accidents, which claimed over 535 lives.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: "The death toll stands at 70 so far," Kumar Tsukwam, the head of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, told AFP after the tanker carrying 60,000 litres of gasoline exploded after flipping over.

A fuel tanker exploded after flipping over in central Nigeria on Saturday, killing 70 people who had rushed in to collect the spilling fuel, whose price has skyrocketed during the economic crisis. "The death toll stands at 70 so far," Kumar Tsukwam, the head of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Niger State, told AFP by telephone. Tsukwam said a truck carrying 60,000 litres of gasoline had an accident around 10:00 am (0900 GMT) at the Dikko junction on the road linking the federal capital Abuja to the northern city of Kaduna. Also read: First stage of deal 'temporary ceasefire', Netanyahu says Biden, Trump back Israel's right to resume fighting "Most of the victims were burnt beyond recognition," Tsukwam said. "We are at the scene to clear things up." An FSRC statement said a "large crowd of people gathered to scoop the fuel" when "suddenly the tanker burst into flames, engulfing another tanker". "So far, 60 corpses have been recovered from the scene; the victims are mostly scavengers," it said. Niger State Governor Umaru Bago said in a separate statement that an undisclosed number of people had also experienced various degrees of burns. Last year, shortly after his election, President Bola Tinubu abolished a fuel subsidy. That sent prices of essentials and other goods soaring, triggering protests. Also read: Trump says will 'most likely' give TikTok 90-day extension to avoid ban after he takes office The price of gasoline has increased fivefold in 18 months. That has led many to risk their lives to collect fuel during tanker truck accidents, which are common in Africa's most populous country. Inflation has been running at over 30 percent for the past year, and a report late last year jointly written by Nigerian authorities, the United Nations, and NGOs said that more than 33 million of Nigeria's roughly 230 million people would go hungry in 2025. Niger State's Bago said the explosion was "worrisome, heartbreaking and unfortunate", but he added that people should "always be responsible and give priority to their safety". In October, more than 170 people died in a similar incident in Jigawa State, in northern Nigeria. In 2020, the FRSC listed 1,531 fuel tanker accidents, which claimed over 535 lives. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nigeria fuel tanker explosion kills 70 as crowd rushes to scoop fuel amid soaring prices

Several Nigerian military personnel are missing after a Boko Haram ambush in Baga, near Lake Chad. Troops were attacked while trying to recover the bodies of 40 civilians killed in a previous raid.

Nigeria: Several soldiers missing after Boko Haram ambush in Baga

Militants have killed at least 40 farmers in Nigeria's northeastern Borno state in the latest violence to hit the conflict-wrought region, a government official said Monday. Watch in for more details!

Nigeria: 40 Farmers Killed By Boko Haram Militants In Northeast Nigeria

Militants have killed at least 40 farmers in Nigeria's northeastern Borno state in the latest violence to hit the conflict-wrought region, a government official said Monday.
Fighters from the Islamic State-aligned Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) late Sunday rounded up scores of farmers in Dumba on the shores of Lake Chad and shot them dead, Usman Tar, Borno state information commissioner said in a statement.
The "initial report indicates about 40 farmers have been killed while the whereabouts of many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families," Tar said.
The state government has ordered troops fighting militants in the region "to track and obliterate the insurgent elements" operating around Dumba and their enclaves in the wider Lake Chad area, Tar said.
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The farmers "strayed off" the safe limit set by troops for farming and fishing in the area that is a sanctuary for militants from ISWAP and its Boko Haram rival and is dotted with landmines and "prone to nocturnal attacks", the commissioner said.
Lake Chad, which straddles Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Chad, serves as a hideout for Boko Haram and ISWAP who use it as a base from which to launch attacks into the countries.
According to a Nigerian intelligence report seen by AFP, "casualties could be over 100 persons killed in the attack" which it blamed on ISWAP fighters.
<h2>Punishment</h2>
The farmers came from the region of Gwoza on the border with Cameroon to cultivate cowpea and onions on the shores of the freshwater lake, according to an anti-militant militia.
"The farmers had a deal with Boko Haram to farm in the Kwatar Yobe and Tudun Kanta near Dumba on the shores of the lake," Babakura Kolo, a militia leader told AFP.
"What they didn't know is that Lake Chad is demarcated between ISWAP and Boko Haram. While Boko Haram controls the islands in the lake, ISWAP controls the areas on the shores," Kolo said.
ISWAP attacked the farmers as punishment for encroaching on its territory without permission and payment of levies it usually imposes on farmers, fishermen and herders who want to operate in the area under its control, he added.
ISWAP and Boko Haram have been locked in deadly infighting for territorial control since their split in 2016 over ideological differences, which led to the killing of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau during clashes in May 2021.
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ISWAP dislodged Boko Haram from its traditional Sambisa Forest stronghold, forcing the rival militants into islands on the Niger side of Lake Chad.
<h2>Toll is 'understatement'</h2>
"ISWAP fighters were enraged on discovering the farmers had paid money to Boko Haram to farm in the area and decided to punish them by gathering them and opening fire on them," Kolo said.
He dismissed the death toll given by Tar as a "gross understatement", saying the casualties "far exceed that number."
"We are talking of more than 100 killed in the attack," he said.
Sallau Arzika, a fisherman in Baga who agreed with Kolo's casualty toll, said the farmers took an unnecessary risk by striking a deal with militants.
ISWAP and Boko Haram have increasingly targeted farmers, fishermen, loggers, herders and metal scrap collectors, accusing them of spying and passing information to the military and the local militia fighting them.
Since 2009, more than 40,000 people have been killed and around two million displaced from their homes in Nigeria's northeast by the militant conflict.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Africa | According to a Nigerian intelligence report seen by AFP, "casualties could be over 100 persons killed in the attack" which it blamed on ISWAP fighters.

Militants have killed at least 40 farmers in Nigeria's northeastern Borno state in the latest violence to hit the conflict-wrought region, a government official said Monday. Fighters from the Islamic State-aligned Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) late Sunday rounded up scores of farmers in Dumba on the shores of Lake Chad and shot them dead, Usman Tar, Borno state information commissioner said in a statement. The "initial report indicates about 40 farmers have been killed while the whereabouts of many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families," Tar said. The state government has ordered troops fighting militants in the region "to track and obliterate the insurgent elements" operating around Dumba and their enclaves in the wider Lake Chad area, Tar said. Also read | Hundreds of illegal miners trapped in abandoned South African mine, many dead The farmers "strayed off" the safe limit set by troops for farming and fishing in the area that is a sanctuary for militants from ISWAP and its Boko Haram rival and is dotted with landmines and "prone to nocturnal attacks", the commissioner said. Lake Chad, which straddles Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Chad, serves as a hideout for Boko Haram and ISWAP who use it as a base from which to launch attacks into the countries. According to a Nigerian intelligence report seen by AFP, "casualties could be over 100 persons killed in the attack" which it blamed on ISWAP fighters. Punishment The farmers came from the region of Gwoza on the border with Cameroon to cultivate cowpea and onions on the shores of the freshwater lake, according to an anti-militant militia. "The farmers had a deal with Boko Haram to farm in the Kwatar Yobe and Tudun Kanta near Dumba on the shores of the lake," Babakura Kolo, a militia leader told AFP. "What they didn't know is that Lake Chad is demarcated between ISWAP and Boko Haram. While Boko Haram controls the islands in the lake, ISWAP controls the areas on the shores," Kolo said. ISWAP attacked the farmers as punishment for encroaching on its territory without permission and payment of levies it usually imposes on farmers, fishermen and herders who want to operate in the area under its control, he added. ISWAP and Boko Haram have been locked in deadly infighting for territorial control since their split in 2016 over ideological differences, which led to the killing of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau during clashes in May 2021. Also read | LA wildfires: 9 charged for amid devastating fires; theft includes $200k and Emmy statuette ISWAP dislodged Boko Haram from its traditional Sambisa Forest stronghold, forcing the rival militants into islands on the Niger side of Lake Chad. Toll is 'understatement' "ISWAP fighters were enraged on discovering the farmers had paid money to Boko Haram to farm in the area and decided to punish them by gathering them and opening fire on them," Kolo said. He dismissed the death toll given by Tar as a "gross understatement", saying the casualties "far exceed that number." "We are talking of more than 100 killed in the attack," he said. Sallau Arzika, a fisherman in Baga who agreed with Kolo's casualty toll, said the farmers took an unnecessary risk by striking a deal with militants. ISWAP and Boko Haram have increasingly targeted farmers, fishermen, loggers, herders and metal scrap collectors, accusing them of spying and passing information to the military and the local militia fighting them. Since 2009, more than 40,000 people have been killed and around two million displaced from their homes in Nigeria's northeast by the militant conflict. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Boko Haram kills at least 40 farmers in northeast Nigeria

At least 16 civilians were killed in a military air raid in the Northwestern Nigerian state of Zamfara. According to residents, the pilot mistook local self-defense forces for criminal gangs. Nigeria's Air Force says it is investigating reports of civilian casualties. The incident is the second deadly accidental airstrike targeting civilians since the December 25th bombing of two villages in a raid targeting jihadists in neighboring Sokoto state. Watch in for more details!

Nigeria: At least 16 killed in airstrike

Six soldiers were killed in an attack on a Nigerian military base, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region. The attack adds to concerns about the stability of military operations in northern Nigeria.

Nigeria Soldiers Attacked: Six Soldiers Dead In Attack on Nigerian Military Base

Nigerian military forces have been compelled to withdraw from parts of Borno state as tensions rise and militant activity intensifies, marking a significant shift in the region's security situation.

Nigerian Forces forced to retreat from Borno amid escalating conflict

Nigeria celebrates 20 years of honoring African heritage, with communities across the country showcasing their rich traditions and cultural practices. This milestone highlights the importance of preserving and promoting African identity through vibrant cultural festivals and events.

Nigeria Marks 20 Years of Celebrating African Heritage, Communities Highlight Tradition

In Nigeria, a fighter jet mistakenly bombed two communities in Sokoto state. Ten villagers were killed and multiple others were injured. Watch in for more details!

Nigeria: Fighter jet mistakenly bombs 2 communities in Sokoto

Nigeria: Fighter Jet Mistakenly Bombs 2 Communities In Sokoto

Abuja, Nigeria
Nigerian police on Sunday raised the total death toll from two stampedes at food distribution centres to 32, as the country grappled with a spate of deadly crowd crushes at charity events.
Twenty-two people were killed on Saturday as people queued outside a centre distributing rice in the southern town of Okija, police said, after previously warning "many" were dead as a result of the incident.
On the same day, a separate stampede outside a church giving food to the "vulnerable and elderly" in the capital Abuja killed at least 10 people, prompting Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu to clear his schedule in the wake of the twin tragedies.
The stampedes outside food distribution centres come as Africa's most populous country grapples with its worst economic crisis in a generation, with inflation soaring to 34.6 per cent in November.
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Confirming the toll of 22 dead in Okija, a spokesman for the Anambra state police expressed condolences to the families and friends of those killed.
"The investigation into the unfortunate incident is still ongoing," Anambra police spokesman Tochukwu Ikenga said on Sunday in a statement.
Four children were among the 10 killed in the Abuja stampede outside the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Maitama district, police said.
Another eight people were injured in the crush, according to a police spokesperson.
"In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them," said President Tinubu.
A statement from the president's spokesman said Tinubu had "cancelled all his official events in Lagos today... in honour of the stampede victims."
Police pointed to similarities between Saturday's incidents and a stampede at a school funfair in the southwestern city of Ibadan on Thursday.
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That crush killed 35 children and gravely injured six others.
"This is a repeat of what happened in Ibadan," Maazo Ezekiel, a spokesman for Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), told AFP on Saturday.
"It is becoming too rampant, and it shows that precautionary measures are not being taken before the distribution of these items," Ezekiel added.
A statement from NEMA's director general called for "proper crowd management during distribution of charity to prevent stampedes and avoidable loss of lives".
"Anytime you are distributing essential materials to people that are eager to partake, and there is no proper crowd control, it often results in situations like this," spokesman Ezekiel added.
Police have already arrested eight people involved in organising the school funfair at Ibadan, according to a spokesman for the force in Oyo State.
<h2>Rising prices </h2>

Faced with skyrocketing food prices, many Nigerians have been forced to queue for charity handouts for hours just to get enough to eat.
Part of the rise in inflation stems from Tinubu's move to end a costly fuel subsidy and currency controls, which has led the naira currency's value to plummet.
The Nigerian president has repeatedly called for patience, claiming that his reforms will help attract foreign investors and get the economy moving again.
But critics charge that the positive effects of his policies are yet to be felt, while Nigerians have seen inflation touch a three-decade high amid soaring fuel prices.
Nigeria has seen several such stampedes at charitable events in recent months.
Two female students were killed in a crush on a university campus in the central state of Nasarawa in March, where a large crowd had gathered as the local authorities distributed food.
That same month, at least four women died as they queued outside the office of a wealthy philanthropist to receive 5,000 naira ($3.2).
Eyewitnesses said the stampede was caused by some in the crowd pushing others in a rush to get the cash.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Twenty-two people were killed as people queued outside a centre distributing rice in the southern town of Okija, police said, after previously warning "many" were dead as a result of the incident.



Abuja, Nigeria Nigerian police on Sunday raised the total death toll from two stampedes at food distribution centres to 32, as the country grappled with a spate of deadly crowd crushes at charity events. Twenty-two people were killed on Saturday as people queued outside a centre distributing rice in the southern town of Okija, police said, after previously warning "many" were dead as a result of the incident. On the same day, a separate stampede outside a church giving food to the "vulnerable and elderly" in the capital Abuja killed at least 10 people, prompting Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu to clear his schedule in the wake of the twin tragedies. The stampedes outside food distribution centres come as Africa's most populous country grapples with its worst economic crisis in a generation, with inflation soaring to 34.6 per cent in November. Also read | IDF strikes Hamas command center in former Gaza school as Israel negotiates hostage release Confirming the toll of 22 dead in Okija, a spokesman for the Anambra state police expressed condolences to the families and friends of those killed. "The investigation into the unfortunate incident is still ongoing," Anambra police spokesman Tochukwu Ikenga said on Sunday in a statement. Four children were among the 10 killed in the Abuja stampede outside the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Maitama district, police said. Another eight people were injured in the crush, according to a police spokesperson. "In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them," said President Tinubu. A statement from the president's spokesman said Tinubu had "cancelled all his official events in Lagos today... in honour of the stampede victims." Police pointed to similarities between Saturday's incidents and a stampede at a school funfair in the southwestern city of Ibadan on Thursday. Also read | Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire That crush killed 35 children and gravely injured six others. "This is a repeat of what happened in Ibadan," Maazo Ezekiel, a spokesman for Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), told AFP on Saturday. "It is becoming too rampant, and it shows that precautionary measures are not being taken before the distribution of these items," Ezekiel added. A statement from NEMA's director general called for "proper crowd management during distribution of charity to prevent stampedes and avoidable loss of lives". "Anytime you are distributing essential materials to people that are eager to partake, and there is no proper crowd control, it often results in situations like this," spokesman Ezekiel added. Police have already arrested eight people involved in organising the school funfair at Ibadan, according to a spokesman for the force in Oyo State. Rising prices Faced with skyrocketing food prices, many Nigerians have been forced to queue for charity handouts for hours just to get enough to eat. Part of the rise in inflation stems from Tinubu's move to end a costly fuel subsidy and currency controls, which has led the naira currency's value to plummet. The Nigerian president has repeatedly called for patience, claiming that his reforms will help attract foreign investors and get the economy moving again. But critics charge that the positive effects of his policies are yet to be felt, while Nigerians have seen inflation touch a three-decade high amid soaring fuel prices. Nigeria has seen several such stampedes at charitable events in recent months. Two female students were killed in a crush on a university campus in the central state of Nasarawa in March, where a large crowd had gathered as the local authorities distributed food. That same month, at least four women died as they queued outside the office of a wealthy philanthropist to receive 5,000 naira ($3.2). Eyewitnesses said the stampede was caused by some in the crowd pushing others in a rush to get the cash. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

Death toll rises to 32 in Nigeria's deadly food distribution stampedes

A deadly stampede during a palliative distribution at a church in Nigeria's capital has left at least 10 people dead.

Palliative Distribution Turns Fatal: Church Stampede In Nigeria's Capital Claims At Least 10 Lives

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