Headline inflation cools as economic pressures ease; Wike stakes ground in FCT polls; Nigeria attracts strongest foreign inflows in five years; El-Rufai appears at EFCC amid tension; Super Eagles line up World Cup friendlies and more top stories.
Nigerias headline inflation drops to 15.10% in January
Nigerias headline inflation rate eased slightly to 15.10 percent in January 2026, defying market expectations of a sharp increase, as both food and core inflation moderated despite the recent Consumer Price Index rebasing by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The rate declined from 15.15 percent in December 2025, contrary to analysts projections of an increase to between 18 and 19 percent following the rebasing exercise.
Food inflation fell to 8.89 percent, while core inflation eased to 17.72 percent, reflecting softer price pressures at the start of the year.
Analysts say the slowdown reinforces expectations of a gradual disinflation trend in 2026, supported by easing food prices, relative exchange rate stability, and moderating energy costs.
Nigerias headline inflation drops to 15.10% in January
Wike draws battle line in FCT polls, vows to block anti-Tinubu candidates
Nyesom Wike has declared that only candidates who support President Bola Tinubu will receive his backing in the February 21 Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections, warning that he will oppose any aspirant who does otherwise, regardless of party affiliation.
Speaking in Abuja at the 60th birthday celebration of Sandy Onor, Wike said loyalty to Tinubu would be decisive in determining his political support.
His remarks signal tightening political alignments in the FCT ahead of the local government polls.
Wike draws battle line in FCT polls, vows to block anti-Tinubu candidates
Nigeria records strongest foreign inflows in five years on reforms
Nigeria recorded its highest level of foreign capital inflows in five years, with total inflows rising 132.27 percent to $16.77 billion in the first nine months of 2025, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
The increase was driven largely by Foreign Portfolio Investment, which surged to $14.25 billion, far exceeding Foreign Direct Investment of $565.21 million, signalling renewed but largely short-term investor confidence following currency reforms.
Nigeria records strongest foreign inflows in five years on reforms
El-Rufai arrives at EFCC as supporters, opponents clash in Abuja
Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, appeared at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja following an invitation linked to alleged corruption investigations.
His arrival was met with heightened security, while supporters gathered outside chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards, with some accusing the agency of political bias.
El-Rufai arrives at EFCC as supporters, opponents clash in Abuja
Super Eagles line up Jordan, Iran friendlies as FIFA verdict looms
Nigerias planned friendlies against Jordan and Iran remain uncertain as FIFA reviews the Super Eagles protest over their elimination from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The complaint alleges that DR Congo fielded six ineligible players during the play-offs. FIFAs decision will determine whether Nigeria proceeds with the scheduled matches.
2026 World Cup: Super Eagles line up Jordan, Iran friendlies as FIFA verdict looms
BusinessDay
Nigeria's leading finance and market intelligence news report. Also home to expert opinion and commentary on politics, sports, lifestyle, and more
